Deck dialogue

Go to Commander Gore's briefing?

• Yes
• No

Is everyone here? I wanted to address all the members of the strike team.

This is a scientific mission to investigate the Schwarzwelt.

Despite that, we must make allowances for the unpredictable.

That is your role. The strike team will patrol outside the ships to keep the area secure.

I know it sounds dangerous, but you've been given special equipment to help you in your task.

You're already wearing it, in fact. Yes, I'm talking about your Demonica suits.

Developed as next-generation weaponry, the Demonica suit lets you function in harsh conditions.

Our early tests show that they're viable here in the Schwarzwelt.

I'll now give the floor to Crewman Jimenez to explain how the Demonica works.

He's already been specially trained in its use in order to pass it along to the rest of you.

Why don't you come up and show us, Crewman Jimenez?

......

I'm Jimenez. I'm posted to Ship 2, the Blue Jet.

Back in my outfit, I was a warrant officer, but I guess here I'm just one of the crew.

We're all part of the Schwarzwelt Investigation Team, so obviously, we're here to investigate.

Could be the science types might not even need us around.

But in case we do get called into action, we can't fumble around not knowing how to use what we got.

So pay attention to what I'm about to tell you, even if it's just to dig your own grave.

So here it is. They were right when they said the Demonica's some cutting-edge stuff...

But they weren't just talking about its ability to resist harsh conditions.

It's loaded with high-tech features.

To start with, you've got the fundamental AI system that supports your movements...

It boosts your existing strength and protects from harm according to your style in battle.

The cool part, though, is how the system itself grows to match the user's experiences in battle.

Then there's your visor feed.

It's extensible, so you can add features to your HUD by installing applications...

Enhanced vision, map markers, even battle data...

You can adjust it to show you all kinds of things.

So that's point two. The Demonica is smart, it evolves along with your battle performance.

Now here's the part where I'd like to demonstrate how the Demonica actually works...

But I'm under orders not to waste supplies. This op's expensive, y'see.

If you're smart, like the Demonica is, you should have no problems out in the field.

Just cross your fingers the brass doesn't value the inhuman resources more than the human ones.

......

Are you making fun of the mission!? Cut the attitude, soldier!

Hey man, you pay me, and I'll do any mission you put me on... Long as it doesn't get me killed.

Thank you, Crewman Jimenez. Your personal philosophy aside, we'll all be relying on your skills.

If you put in the work, I'm sure you'll get everything you want.

You may even get the crew's gratitude as a bonus... but perhaps you don't much care for that.

Pff... Whatever.

All right, now that you've been briefed, you should begin initializing your Demonicas.

You started up the Demonica's Main App.

Initializing system...

DEMOuntable Next Integrated Capability Armor online.

Welcome to the Demonica settings.

Before proceeding, there will be a personality test to best match this Demonica to your needs.

Please respond to the following scenarios naturally, honestly, and without deliberation.

Your answers to the following series of questions will determine the Demonica's growth type.

Scenario One:

You are the sole survivor on a battlefield. You are hidden, with no ammunition in your pistol.

You detect a single enemy approaching.

How will you deal with this enemy, equipped only with an empty gun?

• Ditch the gun and use a knife
• Search for ammunition
• Stay hidden until he passes

Scenario Two:

While infiltrating enemy territory, you spot the man who killed your comrade and closest friend.

You can kill him easily, but the gunshot will expose you and your infiltration will be compromised.

Will you avenge your friend or focus on your objective?

• Do nothing, for the mission
• Kill him, for your friend
• Find a way to do both

Scenario Three:

You have been in a remote area on a mission and your relief has not arrived on schedule.

You can abort the mission and go home now, but you have enough supplies to stay here longer.

What do you do?

• Wait as long as it takes
• Wait as long as you can
• Go back immediately

Scenario Four:

You are piloting a helicopter to refuel. En route, an ally under attack requests help.

You can help him, but it will take your remaining fuel, and it will be difficult to leave afterward.

Other pilots have also received the distress signal, but you are closest to his position.

What will you do with the fuel you have left?

• Hurry to rescue him
• Refuel and let an ally take him
• Land nearby, wait for allies

Scenario Five:

On a mission in occupied territory, you are asked whether to capture a religious leader who may be a spy.

Catching a spy would be a great achievement, but the people may riot if this leader is captured.

How will you approach the religious leader suspected of spying?

• Keep watching him for now
• Bring him in immediately
• Put him under house arrest

This is the final question. Scenario Six:

You have been sent to the Schwarzwelt, where conditions are expected to be harsh.

Yet you have advanced equipment, a strong ship, the latest tech, and dependable comrades.

Will the Schwarzwelt investigation mission succeed?

• Yes.
• It's impossible.
• I don't know.

There are no more questions. Thank you for your cooperation.

Input error. Please enter your answer again.

The support type best suited to your tendencies is determined to be attack support.

The support type best suited to your tendencies is determined to be technical support.

The support type best suited to your tendencies is determined to be physical support.

The support type best suited to your tendencies is determined to be speed support.

The support type best suited to your tendencies is determined to be luck support.

If anyone is to face danger during this investigation, it will be you on the strike team.

But do not let that daunt you. You have your Demonicas, and what's more, you have iron wills!

Yes, Sir!

You're all relieved until we reach the Schwarzwelt.

You can now check any documents you have on file.

To review documents, press the X Button to access the Mission Log.

Attention, all crew.

We will soon be entering the Schwarzwelt.

Take your assigned posts.

Commander Gore, you are needed at the command room.

Arthur's calling me...

First Lieutenant Zelenin, Crewman Jimenez, I thank you for your participation in the briefing.

Everyone, return to your ships and prepare for entry.

Understood, Commander Gore.

Well everyone, it looks as though we must part ways for a while.

We scientists in Ship 3 are all looking forward to your support.

Let's work together for the sake of humanity!

I'm going back to Ship 2.

Remember... you're on your own out there in the field. You gotta be strong, or you're toast.

If you're not confident in yourself, I suggest you get off now, while you still can.

But if you ARE... Well, I'll see you in the field.

The time has come, crew! Let's make this mission a success and return home safely!

The future of the world hangs in the balance! Never forget that!

...(your name)! (your name)!

......!

Alright, he's breathing again! We can rest easy now!

Are you okay, (your name)!? Are you lucid? Do you know who you are?

You were in cardiopulmonary arrest!

Ughhh... uuughh...

What was that...? It hit me like a ton of bricks...

Is everyone okay?

...Well, I guess he's still breathing.

(your name)! Can you move?

This might hurt, so sorry about that. Doesn't look like you'll get a rest in this situation.

The electricity is shot. It's... Well, it's bad.

Attention all crew! We have a situation!

The ship has suffered a system crash of unknown causes while entering the Schwarzwelt.

As a result, we lost control of the ship and made a crash landing.

All the ship's engines have stopped, and Arthur, our command unit, is also out of commission.

We have yet to regain proper control of the ship.

Starting now, I want the strike team mobilized! The threat level is at maximum!

All strike team members who hear this message must report to the command room immediately!

You'll receive further orders through the Demonica's comm. Keep it on at all times!

You may be exposed to the outside atmosphere at a moment's notice. Do NOT remove your Demonica suit!

I say again: Strike team members must report to the command room! That is all.

I guess we're in the Schwarzwelt...

But without electricity, we can't even check to see what it's like out there!

That was a rougher landing than I expected. Guess the Demonica's our only lifeline for now...

Alright, (your name), let's move it and groove it to the command room!

The hatch of the deck is open and strong winds are blowing in...

The area is littered with the corpses of crewmen...

......!

...Gyaaaahhhh!

Oh...! You're one of us! Did you come to save me?

That Demonica... Hey, you're (your name) from the strike team!

I'm Terry, with Engineering!

Be careful... Whatever attacked us should still be in the area.

We have to restart the sub-reactor and get the deck and armor up and running again!

So if you're on the strike team, you must have weapons on you, right?

I'm going into the reactor room from the side of the deck to restart the sub-reactor.

I need you to stop any attackers from coming into the reactor room! I'm counting on you!

Terry went into the reactor room...

...(your name). (your name)...

A group of strike team members join you.

I heard your situation. We just have to stand guard here, right? Alright, keep quiet, men.

What ARE those guys, anyway...?

...Terry? How you doin'? Got that reactor restarted yet?

...Just a sec... This might... do the trick...

Roger that. Speed it up, if you can...

...Everything okay, (your name)?

C'mon... We're almost there... Stay away just a little longer, you bastards...

Hey...! Alright, I got it!

Starting the sub-reactor now!

The sub-reactor started.

Good one, Terry! The power's back on!

Now get back to the deck!

...Commander Gore, this is the deck. We've successfully restarted the sub-reactor.

Now that hatch can--

......!

The strike team crew member was attacked by something!

You can't discern who the attacker is!

We got contact! Is it the enemy!?

Where!? Where is it!?

The strike team member fired wildly around!

*pant* *pant* Where...? Where...?

......!

Something attacked the strike team member!

Aaaah...! Aaaaaghhhh!

The enemy... I can't see it! What am I supposed to do!?

You feel something approach you...

A program has been sent to your Demonica!

You who have... wandered in... We will... send to you... The way to know... and capture... them...

You received a program on your Demonica through the ship's control system!

You check the program name displayed on the Demonica...

It is the "Demon Summoning Program."

What the...!? Something just came in to my Demonica!

...The enemy! I can see them!

(your name)! They're right on top of you!

The enemy attacked!

You don't detect the enemy's presence anymore...

Yes! We did it! We bagged an invisible enemy!

Wait... they were visible at the end there... Is that because of the program we just got?

"Demon Summoning Program"...!? What the hell is this!?

Well done, (your name)! You repelled the invaders.

But we mustn't let them go any further into the ship!

Close the hatch at once!

Well, with the reactor running again, that shouldn't be a problem.

Leave the hatch controls to me, (your name)!

The deck's hatch was closed.

Good! Your mission is complete.

Medical team, get to the deck and treat those casualties!

The next mission is in the planning stages. Strike team, report back to the command room immediately!

We need to find out who's attacking us... and we should know more about that program we received.

I think we can ward off any more enemies for now...

But be careful, (your name). There may still be some left in the ship.

You went to the command room.

Attention all crew! We have a situation!

The ship has suffered a system crash of unknown causes while entering the Schwarzwelt.

As a result, we lost control of the ship and made a crash landing.

All the ship's engines have stopped, and Arthur, our command unit, is also out of commission.

We have yet to regain proper control of the ship.

Starting now, I want the strike team mobilized! The threat level is at maximum!

All strike team members who hear this message must report to the command room immediately!

You'll receive further orders through the Demonica's comm. Keep it on at all times!

You may be exposed to the outside atmosphere at a moment's notice. Do NOT remove your Demonica suit!

I say again: Strike team members must report to the command room! That is all.

There's a situation in sickbay, but you're still hurt from the last battle. Go to the lab first!

There's a situation in sickbay. Get going!

You're here, (your name). Did you finish preparing for battle like the Commander said?

• Yes
• No

Okay, you're clear to go outside! Good luck!

You may now go into the field from the deck.

Choose to Disembark, and then go into Antlia.

...C'mon, don't lie. Whatever you think of the mission, orders are orders. You have a duty.

Go to the lab first. We'll talk after that.

No...? Well, go finish up, then!

He's back! Commander Gore is baaaack!

Though he met his end, the brave and noble Gore has returned in high honor!

*sob* *sob* Commander... Commander!

I'm sorry, Commander... I... I just can't "stay calm" at a time like this...

I can't... do what you asked...

I know he had his reasons, but I can't believe he went out there himself...

He was too brave... too kind... for a Commander...

I can't believe it... I can't believe the Commander is dead...!

Without a leader, what's going to happen to us...?

He didn't have to be in such a hurry to save them!

The Red Sprite was still in danger itself!

We were in no condition to provide aid to the Blue Jet!

......

Hey... Hey.

Huh...?

Oh... you're Jimenez from the Blue Jet, right?

What're you gonna do with the Commander's body?

Do with it...?

Well, supposedly the bodies of high officials are to be kept somewhere secure, according to protocol.

...Good to hear it.

Be a shame if the man who saved me got buried outside only for the demons to dig him up for a snack.

H-How could you...!?

Attention, all crew. Attention, all crew.

This is Arthur, the Red Sprite's command unit speaking.

The system has been successfully restored. We will assess the situation and devise a response.

Commander Gore, return to the command room.

Hey... Arthur's back...

Crewman (your name).

The energy mass you retrieved must be sent to analysis immediately.

Proceed directly to the command room.

Welcome back, Crewman (your name). Thank you for completing the mission.

The energy mass you retrieved must be sent to analysis immediately.

Proceed directly to the command room.

You sense someone's presence...

Ah, I apologize for the intrusion.

My, my... this is a grand ship. Even the ark that withstood the flood couldn't compare.

Hm...? Your name is known to them, (your name).

I am Louisa Ferre. Please, call me Louisa.

I suppose humans brought this danger on themselves, and are hastening to destruction...

But I am only putting into words the destiny you've carried since you were created.

There is no cause for concern.

Yet you are still allowed a bit of power...

Perhaps you may be able to control where the pendulum stops swinging.

Where do you belong? A steadfast soldier of the law, or an agent of chaos?

Hm...? It seems you have guests again.

I had hoped to sit and talk with you longer, but I am left with little choice.

Excuse me, please.

The girl disappeared...

Attention, all crew. A sudden flux spike has been detected near the Red Sprite.

Abnormal conditions may result. All crewmen, be on alert!

Attention, strike team. We have fended off the demon thought to be Horkos.

It seems to have fled after being wounded.

We predict that Horkos, in its natural form, is in possession of a Rosetta.

We realize the risks, but you must track and defeat it.

There is an energy signature within Sector Carina thought to be Horkos.

Use this signature as your guide when tracking the demon.

Welcome back, Crewman (your name). Thank you for completing your mission.

The energy mass you retrieved must be sent to analysis immediately.

Proceed directly to the command room...

...A girl wearing a skirt? Here? Louisa Ferre?

There's no one on the crew by that name... Started seein' things, eh?

Wait...! Could it have been a demon...!?

...Nah. Other people would've seen it then, and it would've left some kind of trace behind.

What about you, Bugaboo? Did you sense anything?

......

Demo... Demon...?

...No... No...

Hahah, that's a neg, he says.

Man, I can't believe he's back! Irving was really surprised that we managed to revive him, too!

And I was wondering how much longer he'd live when I saved him at Bootes...

...Will you please stop that?

It's against regulations to summon demons unless absolutely necessary.

And this isn't the first time I've seen you do it. You don't respect authority much, do you, Jimenez?

...Don't be so frigid. It's not like it's hurting anyone.

Spending time together like this makes a difference when it comes time for actual combat, y'know.

Besides, Bugaboo needs some rehab. He's been treated as a "thing" for all this time.

That's a dangerous philosophy.

Demons only obey humans because of the summoning program...

Not because you share whatever sort of bond you're imagining.

(your name), you really must speak up when he does this.

It's all to prevent any accidents from happening.

Excuse me, please...

Zelenin left.

All right, Bugaboo... back in the Demonica you go.

I don't think that woman's ever gonna come around on the whole demon thing.

Sheesh, it's not like having such a hate on for 'em will make them go away.

It's too bad...

Engineering to all crew!

Preparations to plane shift into the new sector are complete!

We'll begin the plane shift as soon as we get the okay from Ops!

Guess we should get ready.

Right? Hey, (your name)...?

If--I mean, WHEN we get back to the surface...

What're you gonna do with the Demon Summoning Program?

Ahhh, I ask like we'd get a choice. They'll just take it away along with our Demonicas.

We're just grunts, after all...

There seems to be a problem in sickbay.

Strike team, make sure you take care of the situation there before heading out.

So that's the fabled MK Gun. But you can't go out there yet!

Aren't there crewmen waiting for treatment in sickbay? Test it out on them first.

Welcome back, Crewman (your name). Thank you for completing the mission.

Return to the command room after you deliver the Rosetta to Engineering...

So I hear we're going to Jack's Squad HQ soon...

You ready, (your name)?

• Yes
• No

Terry used the shipwide intercom...

Ops to all crew! The ship will be plane shifting momentarily!

There will be two shifts.

After we pass through the Vanishing Point to Eridanus, we'll jump to Jack's space-time pocket.

Commencing the plane shift now!

I see... Then come back when you are.

This is the strike team in the field. We have an abnormality in the situation to report.

The elevator on the first floor of Horologium seems to have halted.

It is barring our progress to B9.

We request backup from maintenance that they might investigate the elevator and restart it.

...Perhaps Mem Aleph found out and prevented the elevator from going down.

We will send a supply team to make repairs, but Mem Aleph is likely beyond our reach for now.

Review your other mission objectives and prioritize them first...

Strike team here! We've got bad news to report!

The elevator on the first floor of Horologium is a no go!

We're never gonna get down to B9 so long as this thing's busted!

We need a maintenance team out here so they can get it running again!

Perhaps Mem Aleph sensed something was amiss and stopped the elevator.

Maintenance, send a team into the field to look into it.

Crewmen assigned to investigate Mem Aleph and Exotic Materials should prioritize other tasks.

Dent and Dent couldn't contain themselves anymore and ran away.

Which is great! That's the kind of passion we need! I'm so excited for this new world!

Those who once had requests for you... Dent, Dent, Dent, and Dent...

They are all thankful, and blessed your name.

We all pray... that you will stand victorious before the Mother.

I've been on a losing streak, but the next game is all mine.

And if I don't win that one, we'll keep playing back on Earth until I do. You get my meaning?

Wow!

You completed all the odd jobs I gave you...

You're the best, man.

......

Dent's attitude suddenly changed...

And now that I've taken care of my responsibilities, I don't have to hold back anymore!

Grazie, (your name)!

......

Dent's attitude suddenly changed...

Finally, I can heed the calling of the Lord, my master.

You are indeed the one who will lead us. Please excuse my previous coarse behavior.

Dent took your hand and shook it firmly.

Yo, (your name). How're you holding up?

I feel like they're throwing us one tough mission after another, but I know we can handle it.

Oh yeah...

You wouldn't happen to have any spare time, would you?

Well, I hear stories about other crewmen's troubles and anxieties when we're betting on stuff.

Think you could lend a sympathetic ear too? Only when you have time, I mean.

After all, everyone really looks up to you. You're probably the second most popular guy after me.

I'll introduce you to some of the crew. Talk to me when you feel up to it.

Hey, (your name). How've you been?

......

Everyone seems to have... awakened...

Though there do seem to be a few, like you and me, who haven't changed much...

Well, whether or not we change too, we've already come this far.

I'll go along with you to the end.

I see you've done what Dent asked. Grazie!

Report to Dent?

• Yes
• No

Hm? Hey, you found it!

Guess that finishes Dent's mission.

Want to report it to Dent?

• Yes
• No

Hm? Hey, you found it!

Guess that finishes Dent's mission.

Want to report it to Dent?

• Yes
• No

...Hmm. Looks like you've done whatever Dent needed.

Do you want to report to Dent?

• Yes
• No

...Hmm. Looks like you've done whatever Dent needed.

Do you want to report to Dent?

• Yes
• No

...Hmm. Looks like you've done whatever Dent needed.

Do you want to report to Dent?

• Yes
• No

...Hmm. Looks like you've done whatever Dent needed.

Do you want to report to Dent?

• Yes
• No

...Hmm. Looks like you've done whatever Dent needed.

Do you want to report to Dent?

• Yes
• No

...Hmm. Looks like you've done whatever Dent needed.

Do you want to report to Dent?

• Yes
• No

What will you do?

• Talk
• Anything I can help with?
• Walk away

I'm sorry it always ends up being you who takes on my requests. Believe me, I appreciate it!

Let's keep at it and resolve all the crew's little worries.

We can do it! We can do anything!

......

...I'm starting to be a real go-getter, huh?

Thanks for always taking care of everyone's concerns.

(your name) is the man to lead us...!

Heheh... I guess I embarrassed myself a little saying that.

But it's important you know how grateful we all are.

I'm really grateful you've been helping me take care of all these requests.

We've almost reached our main objective...

Like I told you before, we can do anything!

And I'll be supporting you to the very end.

Good luck!

Hmm... I'm so bored... Actually, you know what? I'm not, really.

I've been pretty busy lately.

Still, every now and then I miss the games we used to play.

Wanna play again? I think it's important to take five here and there.

Let's play 10 Rocks. You're going down this time!

Well? Wanna?

• Yes
• No

Good! Then let's go.

What? This is no time for games? Sheesh, when'd you get so strict?

Alright, fine... I'll concentrate more on my duties.

Still as bored as ever, if you're wondering.

Want to help liven things up a bit again? I won't go easy on you this time!

Nope, this time we're gonna play "10 Rocks."

Well? Wanna?

• Yes
• No

Good! Then let's go.

Oh... Yeah, you do seem pretty busy.

If you ever have some time, though, we should play some games.

Still as bored as ever, if you're wondering.

Want to help liven things up a bit again? I won't go easy on you this time!

Nope, this time we're gonna play "10 Rocks."

Well? Wanna?

• Yes
• No

Good! Then let's go.

Oh... Yeah, you do seem pretty busy.

If you ever have some time, though, we should play some games.

Hmm. Being on call gives a guy a lot of free time.

I'm up for another battle of wits, but first I gotta think of a game that'll really get you thinking.

Mehhhhh... It sure sucks being on standby all the time...

Hey, I know...!

Can you help stave off the boredom? Let's stretch our brains!

• Okay.
• No.

Great! Then let's begin.

We're going to play a simple game. It's called "Don't Count to 30."

Oh... Yeah, you do seem pretty busy.

If you ever have some time, though, we should play some games.

Right now, I'm on call around the ship... which means I have a lot of time on my hands.

Rest is good, but exercising your body and mind is important, too... Right?

Hmm...

Can you help stave off the boredom? Let's stretch our brains!

• Okay.
• No.

Great! Then let's begin.

We're going to play a simple game. It's called "Don't Count to 30."

Oh... Yeah, you do seem pretty busy.

If you ever have some time, though, we should play some games.

Right now, I'm on call around the ship... And that gets real old, real fast.

I wish there was some way I could kill time.

You want to accept a mission? Great!

I actually have one that's perfect for you.

You want to accept a mission? Great!

There are two missions I was saving for you.

Here's the first one...

You want to accept a mission? Great!

There are... wow... three missions I wanted you to handle.

Here's the first one...

You want to accept a mission? Great!

The missions have really been piling up! I've got FOUR for you to do now.

Here's the first one...

This request is from Dent.

Have you heard the rumors that there's an evil spirit in the restrooms?

It seems like the work of a demon, but something's strange about it.

The crew refuses to use the head until it's sorted out.

Could you do something about it?

Grant this request?

• Yes
• No

Well, good luck. You know where the restroom is, I'm sure.

You won't take it...? What a shame.

Well, talk to me if you change your mind about that.

Oh, here's the mission I wanted you to do.

This mission comes from Dent, a truly... unique character.

I'd encourage you to get more details from him.

Will you grant Dent's request?

• Yes
• No

Oh, here's the mission I wanted you to do.

This is a mission from Dent.

We've lost many of our comrades, but they left behind some valuable investigational data.

It's Dent's job to collect that data.

Could you give him a hand?

You can get more details directly from him.

This is a mission from Dent.

As before, he wants you to collect the crewmen's black boxes.

I'm sorry to say we've lost more of our precious manpower.

We can't let their investigative efforts go to waste...

Feel free to ask him anything you need to complete the mission.

Will you grant Dent's request?

• Yes
• No

...Okay. Well, I hope you change your mind.

This is a mission from Dent.

He's been preoccupied lately... Could you find out what it is and help him with it?

This is a mission from Dent.

He's been spacing out again, though I don't know why. Help the guy out.

This is a mission from Dent.

He's been spacing out again, though I don't know why. Help the guy out.

This is a mission from Dent.

He's been spacing out again, though I don't know why. Help the guy out.

This is a mission from Dent.

He's been spacing out again, though I don't know why. Help the guy out.

This is a mission from Dent.

He's been spacing out again, though I don't know why. Help the guy out.

Will you grant Dent's request?

• Yes
• No

You won't take it...? What a shame.

Well, talk to me if you change your mind about that.

Thanks to you, everyone's problemsare solved.

Thanks for all your help. Trust me, I appreciate it!

Wow! Getting your help is quite a welcome surprise.

Bad timing, though...

The crewmen who had requests for you are all gone right now.

Come see me again later.

Hey, a lot of strike team members just went down to sector Antlia.

I heard they're providing backup for the supply team... but man, they were out in force.

Whatever they're up against must be pretty tough.

Sorry, (your name), but I don't have any requests for you now.

Come see me again later.

Ciao!

Need me to explain the rules?

• Yes
• No

In this game, you and I advance a count, back and forth.

You can add up to three to the tally, but you always have to add at least one.

Whoever reaches 30... loses. Simple, right?

You first, then.

Count to what?

• To 29
• To 30

Count to what?

• To 30

Count to what?

• To X
• To X
• To X

Current count: X

My turn. X.

Okay... X, X.

Try this! X, X, X.

Gahhh! You got me...

You win. You know... you're pretty good at this, (your name).

Well, that was a nice way to kill time. Thanks a bunch.

Alright. I guess I win.

In this game, if you count 30, you lose... Meaning whoever counts 29 is the winner.

Sorry, (your name). I'm up for a rematch anytime!

Yesss! I win again!

If I count 29, I'm the winner... And for me to count 29, I need to count 25...

If you think of it like that, you can figure out how to win next time.

I'll be waiting for you to challenge me again!

Should I explain the rules?

• Yes
• No

Okay, here's how to play 10 Rocks. You'll need these to play.

You get 3 cards and 5 rocks. I get the same.

Each of the cards has something written on it:

"Add a rock," "Take two rocks," and "Counter."

Each of us chooses one card without the other seeing and puts it down.

If you play "Add a rock," you add one rock to your total, for six.

If you play "Take two rocks," you take two of your opponent's rocks and add them to your total.

However, if I had played the "Counter" card...

You wouldn't get my rocks, and I'd get two of YOUR rocks.

We keep putting cards down until one person gets ten rocks and wins the game.

So there you go, the rules.

Need me to go over them again?

• Yes
• No

Then let's go!

Right now, you have 5 rocks. I have 5 rocks too.

What card will you play?

• "Add a rock"
• "Take two rocks"
• "Counter"

You chose the "Add a rock" card.

You chose the "Take two rocks" card.

You chose the "Counter" card.

Dent played the "Add a rock" card.

Dent played the "Take two rocks" card.

Dent played the "Counter" card.

You added one stone.

Dent added one stone.

You took X stones from your opponent!

You tried to take 2 of Dent's stones...

But since Dent played a "Counter" card, it backfired!

Dent took X of your stones instead...

Dent took X of your stones!

Dent is trying to take 2 of your stones...

But since you played a "Counter" card, it backfired!

You took X stones from Dent instead!

The current results are: You... X stone(s) Me... X stone(s)

Uugghhhh! You got me...

You win. You're pretty good at this stuff, (your name)...

That was a great way to kill time. Thanks a lot!

I'll have to think of another strategy... Let's play again sometime.

Hah! I win.

I'll accept as many challenges as you throw at me! Any time, any place!

Hm? A tie...?

Hmmm. Good match, though.

Come see me if you ever want to play again! I'll accept your challenge any day!

Crewmen are gathered in the hall...

Dammit! It's so creepy...

What is WITH that bathroom? I'm not using this one ever again!

What on earth is that thing...!?

An evil spirit...!? A demon...? Or...?

Oh, it's you, (your name). Listen...

You probably heard us shouting about it, but there might be something... alive in there.

It doesn't seem to be a demon, either. It calls itself "God"...

I highly, HIGHLY doubt that God would appear in a toilet...

That has to be an evil spirit... It's just gotta be!

What do you think, (your name)?

• God can be in a toilet.
• Treat it as a demon anyway.
• Sounds good on paper...

What!? Why would God be in the bathroom!?

Although... I guess I remember hearing about that in Asia.

You're so... calm about this.

If Arthur ever got scrapped, you could probably fill in for him.

Hm? What's this about paper?

Is that some kind of joke? No one uses paper in toilets anymore...

Well... standing around here won't do anything. We'll just have to check it out.

We're counting on you, (your name). Show us what the strike team's made of!

Go! And, uh, good luck!

The crewmen pressured you into entering the restrooms...

.........

The restrooms are silent... Darkness hangs over the stalls...

A bizarre figure leapt out of the toilet!

So you've come again, human!

A demon appeared!

Wh--aaaahhh! Something's there!

My name is Kanbari, protector of the privy!

Young people these days don't even know how to use them!

All I was doing was keeping those young folks who don't use this thing properly in their places.

You seem like a law-abiding fella, but I can't just let this go.

It's just your bad luck... you're the same as them!

Have at you!

Grrr...

You're pretty tough for a young'un.

I'll let everyone go, for your sake.

Just don't forget the importance of keeping the privy clean.

The Ten Commandments, the Tao te Ching, I got nothin' against 'em... But the little things count too!

Kanbari left...

Wow, (your name)! Great job!

You really helped us out! Thanks!

I knew the strike team would come in handy in a pinch!

Like the boy on the football team I liked in high school...

But I think I understand what that god was getting at...

We weren't doing a very good job taking care of things. I think we should try harder about that.

Some cultures believe that there's a god within everything.

Well, nonetheless, the problem's solved thanks to you.

That god left this behind... I think you should take it.

Alright, let's set up a duty roster for cleaning the restrooms!

Oh, (your name)! Before I forget...

You did just fight the god of the toilets.

So, um... don't forget to wash your hands.

Either you lost in battle or an error has occurred.

You weren't supposed to see this message. Leave now... leave while you still can!

Hey, (your name). I've heard a lot of good things about you.

I'm Tanaka, on the supply team.

...I realize I'm kind of an odd duck for a Supply man...

The only thing I like is collecting interesting materials and doing research on them.

To tell you the truth, I find the forma here more interesting than the fate of mankind.

Hahaha... I probably shouldn't go around admitting that, huh?

But enough about that. Let me get right to my request.

It's a tough job, and probably only someone who's survived so many battles could do it...

Think you're up for it? There's a lot in it for you, too.

Ooh, you'll really do it?

I mean, that's great! And of course, there's a nifty reward in it for you.

Accept Tanaka's mission?

• Yes
• No

I'm glad you're willing. Allow me to explain.

Do you know the demon Fafnir...?

It's categorized under the Drake family, but I have my own private race for it...

Mecha-Dragon Fafnir!

Yeah, you heard right. Fafnir is a draconic demon with a mechanical body.

Doesn't that set your mind reeling? Just think... what kind of parts is he composed of?

That's my first interest, the parts themselves and how they work.

After that, I'm interested in the possibilities.

I mean, just think of the kind of equipment we could develop using that stuff...

So, (your name), you heard my story, right?

I bet you're ready to run right out and find Fafnir!

No need to be ashamed, it's natural intellectual curiosity. That's what separates us from the beasts.

Good luck with the hunt.

I'll start prepping the analysis for when you get back.

Oh, and one more thing!

Don't do anything barbaric like rip parts off him, got it?

Every component from his body is precious research material. I don't want to see any scratches or dirt.

That's right... you'll have to negotiate with Fafnir for them. And I want only the best parts.

Don't worry, if anyone can do it, it's you!

I see... Well, I won't force you.

I can't put your life in danger just to satisfy my intellectual curiosity, can I? ...Can I...?

Well, if you change your mind, come see me again.

So, did you get Fafnir's parts?

You hand Fafnir's parts over to Tanaka...

Ooh...! So this is Fafnir's...!

What am I doing just standing here!? I've got materials to analyze!

Sorry to keep you waiting! I've finished my analysis.

And let me tell you... these parts are INCREDIBLE.

The readings I got off these puppies surpassed my expectations in every respect.

Our own current level of technology can't even come close to uncovering the mysteries behind this dragon.

But you won't see me moping about it. Nope! I'm happy, in fact.

Now I have a challenge!

Oh, that's right...

I also succeeded in extracting some energy from the parts.

It looks like it can be used to boost our equipment. I made a little something as a test.

It's yours, as a reward for helping me.

Not to brag or anything, but that should be pretty high quality.

We're coming up to the end of our mission...

If this makes a difference in the last battle, well, there'd be no higher honor than that.

It would be one of the proudest moments of my life...

Alright, I'm going to spend some time researching this thing.

You work for the present--I'll work toward the future.

We can do it.

Well, no hurry.

I still need some time to prepare.

Excuse me, Crewman (your name).

My name is Gekko. I belong to the monitor team.

Can I bother you for a moment? I need somebody to talk to...

It's about the data our Demonica suits are constantly accumulating.

That data is streamed to the command unit, but there've been a few anomalies lately.

They're probably from our fallen comrades...

My job is to collect that data from any destroyed Demonicas.

If I succeed, what we learn may help us add more functions to the Demonica.

I'll understand if you're not comfortable looting corpses, but I could really use the help.

Would you be okay with that?

The object is to collect black box data from dead crewmen's Demonicas.

Accept the request?

• Yes
• No

Really? You have no idea how helpful that'd be.

I'll send your Demonica the password to decrypt the seals on the black boxes.

There's a lot of anomalous data, but most of it has the same contents.

Even if you only recover one piece of data per sector, that's fine.

Well, I wish you luck.

...All right. I understand... It's not the greatest feeling.

Well done, Crewman (your name).

Please give me the data you found.

Thanks very much.

This data might be very helpful in enhancing the Demonica's functions.

Wait here, please.

Gekko took the data he received from you and took it to the lab.

.........

Gekko returned from the lab.

There... a new function should be added to your Demonica's Sub Apps.

Our work is done for now, but in our current situation, I doubt my mission will ever end...

If you don't mind helping me again later, come talk to me.

Thank you. Because of you, those crewmen's deaths were not in vain.

What's the matter? You didn't find any data?

That's okay. When you do find some, bring it to me.

Oh, Crewman (your name). Did you come to help me with my duties?

The object is to collect black box data from dead crewmen's Demonicas.

Would you be okay with that?

The object is to collect black box data from dead crewmen's Demonicas.

Accept the request?

• Yes
• No

Really? You have no idea how helpful that'd be.

I'll send your Demonica the password to decrypt the seals on the black boxes.

Some Demonicas have different passwords because of the equipment enhancement from the other day.

I'm sure this password will accommodate both old and new Demonicas.

There's a lot of anomalous data, but most of it has the same contents.

Even if you only recover one piece of data per sector, that's fine.

Well, I wish you luck.

...All right. I understand... It's not the greatest feeling.

Well done, Crewman (your name).

Please give me the data you found.

Thanks very much.

This data might be very helpful in enhancing the Demonica's functions.

Wait here, please.

Gekko took the data he received from you and took it to the lab.

.........

Gekko returned from the lab.

There... a new function should be added to your Demonica's Sub Apps.

That's the last of the black boxes we needed to collect.

Thanks for all your hard work out there, Crewman (your name).

What's the matter? You didn't find any data?

That's okay. When you do find some, bring it to me.

Yo, (your name). Hey, I think this is the first time you've ever talked to me.

I'm Anthony, with the strike team. Nice to finally meet you.

You know, I'm actually a pretty famous guy within the strike team.

People keep saying to me, "Your name marks you for death."

When I ask why, they just laugh... What's the deal with that?

But that's beside the point right now, I guess...

I've heard about the stuff you've done. You're due for a bunch of medals when you get back, I bet.

I also hear you're a pro when it comes to demon negotiation.

Hell, you talk more to those demons than you do to your crewmates.

C'mon, man, we're your buddies!

Demons are fine and all, but you gotta pay attention to us every now and then too.

You get me, man?

• I get you.
• I don't get it.

Hah, glad you're quick on the uptake. Not that I would have expected anything less.

Not too swift, huh? Maybe you're too used to demons?

I'm talking about listening to my problems... See, I got a favor to ask.

Will you help me out?

Help out Anthony?

• Yes
• No

Hey, thanks! All right, I'm not gonna beat around the bush here...

...I might've fallen in love with a demon.

Uh... what's with the silence all of a sudden?

O-Oh... I get it... You think I'm joking, huh?

No way, man. I'm deadly serious.

I mean, c'mon, haven't you ever seen a female demon you thought was hotter than any human woman?

Isn't it natural to fall for one?

• You're right.
• No. No, it isn't.

See, you understand. Maybe we fall for the same types?

Alright, alright... I understand. There's no accounting for taste...

But anyways, let's get back to my problems.

So I fell in love with this certain demon chick, and, y'know... I want to see her again.

But here's the problem.

Because of my current assignment, I can't move from this spot.

So I can't even look for her, let alone talk to her.

So here's the favor I need...

If you run into that demon chick, tell her I'm looking for her.

That's right. All I need you to do is talk with her. Easy, right?

Huh? Who is she? Well, uhhh... I didn't get her name...

But I can describe her for you!

She has hair about as long as she is tall and a simple black dress...

I'm counting on you, bro!

Oh, you busy or something?

That's cool. Whenever you have time, man. Come back and see me if you wanna help a bro out.

Oh, hey (your name). Did you talk to that demon chick?

You reported to Anthony...

O-Oh... okay...

Alright. That's cool. I'm okay with that.

Well... there's always next time. There are plenty of fish-women in the sea, bro.

Maybe I struck out this time, but you did good, man. Thanks.

Yo, (your name).

Hey, we're both still alive, huh?

...Actually, there's something else I need from you. Are you up for it?

What do you say, bro?

Help out Anthony?

• Yes
• No

You're the man! I'll just cut right to the chase...

I fell in love with another demon chick.

Awww... not more of this silent treatment, man.

We've been through this once already, man. Don't act like this now.

...Anyways, back to business.

You can probably guess what's up. Same deal as before, more or less.

Cute demon chick, wanna talk to her, can't move from here, yadda yadda.

I need you to tell her that I gotta talk to her, man.

What's she like? Well... she's a cute winged chick.

She might seem kinda young... But hey, it's all relative with her being a demon, so I'm safe, right?

I mean, "young" for a demon is probably like, a few hundred years old!

I'm counting on you, bro!

Oh, you busy or something?

That's cool. Whenever you have time, man. Come back and see me if you wanna help a bro out.

Oh, hey (your name). Did you talk to that demon chick?

You reported to Anthony...

Wh-What...? That makes me sound like some kinda...!

Dammit! She's hundreds of years old, right?

I'm the underage one here!

Argh... forget it, okay!? This is grief I don't need!

You, too! Forget any of this ever happened! Don't tell ANYONE, got it!?

Even if the Joint Project questions you, you will disavow any knowledge this ever took place!

Okay!?

Yo, (your name). Still alive and kicking, huh?

I guess I'm still sucking down air too somehow.

...Actually, I have another favor for you. You up for it?

What do you say, bro?

Help out Anthony?

• Yes
• No

You're the man! I'll just cut right to the chase...

I fell in love with another demon chick.

Aaaaand... more silence. Well, get used to it, buddy!

Or what, you trying to tell me I shoulda learned my lesson the last time?

Well, too bad!

This time, she's a real cool girl!

I met her in the middle of a blizzard.

But once I saw her, my freezing heart was on fire!

I tried making a pass at her, but all that howling wind sorta drowned out my voice.

And once the blizzard was over, I couldn't find her again...

So there you have it. Think you can find her for me?

She's just the way I described her already: she was standing in the middle of a blizzard.

Oh... and I think she was wearing, like, a kimono.

Not a big gaudy one like a geisha would have, something simpler.

I'm counting on you, bro!

Oh, you busy or something?

That's cool. Whenever you have time, man. Come back and see me if you wanna help a bro out.

Oh, hey (your name). Did you talk to that demon chick?

You reported to Anthony...

......

Hey, (your name)... Am I a loser?

Do I suck that bad?

• Well...
• To be frank...
• If you want my opinion...

Er, hang on! Wait! Hold that thought!

...I don't want anything to get in the way of our friendship, bro.

Just forget I asked, okay?

Still, that's pretty cold of her... In the end, she's just another ice queen.

Heh... Forget her, man! I'll find a chick who's way better for me!

Just you wait!

Yo, (your name). The mission going okay for you?

This world's not as bad as all that, huh?

...Okay, here's the thing. I have another favor to ask you.

What do you say, bro?

Help out Anthony?

• Yes
• No

You're the man! I'll just cut right to the chase...

I fell in love with another demon chick.

Whoa, whoa, hear me out. It's a little different this time.

See, this time... the demon chick showed up in my dreams.

She was REALLY cute, man. I'm talking, like... REALLY cute. Plus the stuff she did to me!

I'm head over heels for her. This is true love, man.

Just look at me. I can barely stay on my feet thanks to my lack of sleep.

The dreams are so good, but she just won't let me sleep!

But... I'd kinda like to see her while I'm awake.

So you know the drill, bro. Think you can find her for me?

Yeah, I can describe her for you. I already kinda did, partly.

Remember how I said she can enter people's dreams?

Apart from that, she has black hair and a white outfit. Oh, and a typical barbed demon tail.

I'm counting on you, bro!

Oh, you busy or something?

That's cool. Whenever you have time, man. Come back and see me if you wanna help a bro out.

Oh, hey (your name). Did you talk to that demon chick?

You reported to Anthony...

Uh... What the hell?

Does that mean... y'know... I'm not man enough for her?

*sigh* In the daytime, I misfire my gun dealing with demons...

And at night, I misfire my other gun dealing with another demon? Is that how it's gotta be?

Alright, I get it. Well, fine!

But I'll say this!

It takes more than this to make me back down!

Soon enough, or someday, anyway... I'll be a real manly man!

I may only be packing a pellet gun now, but one day it'll be as powerful as a howitzer!

Oh, hey, (your name).

Guess we're both still alive, huh?

......

What...? I look kinda glum?

Is that so...? Well, nothing gets by you.

Wanna know why I'm so down?

See? I'm really depressed, huh?

Don't you wanna know why I'm so down?

Ask why he is depressed?

• Yes
• No

Wow, thanks for asking, man. You're a prince, (your name).

To tell you the truth... There's something I gotta say to a certain demon chick.

I, uh... want to apologize.

A while back, I screwed up and got separated from the team.

That's when I ran into this demon chick I'm talking about. She didn't attack me...

In fact, she seemed like she had a thing for me. She even blessed my gun.

Man, after that, I didn't miss a shot. Bullseye every time.

I beat every demon that got in my way and managed to catch up to the team.

So, yeah, the demon chick was with me the whole time, but...

When I joined back up with the squad, I figured it was time to say goodbye.

That's when I saw it...

I thought that whole time she looked like a regular human, but her back was covered in bark.

I got scared and ran off. Didn't even say thanks...

You understand, right? What I want you to do for me...

I can't look her in the eye after how I acted.

So tell her I said thanks... and that I'm sorry...

...I'm counting on you.

Oh, you busy or something?

That's cool. Whenever you have time, man. Come back and see me if you wanna help a bro out.

Oh, hey (your name). Did you talk to that demon chick?

You reported to Anthony...

...Huh. She didn't mind, did she?

Well, maybe I should leave it at that.

Anyway, thanks. Sorry it wasn't another goofy favor like always.

...You didn't want to do it, huh?

• That's not true.
• Don't worry about it.

I envy your personality, man.

Well, all I can really say for this one is "thanks."

I dunno if I'll have any more problems or not, but...

If I do, I'll be counting on you.

Yo, (your name). How's it going?

You and me are like cockroaches-- we don't die easy!

So... that out of the way...

You think you could help me out one more time?

What do you say, man?

Help out Anthony?

• Yes
• No

Yessss! That's what I was hoping to hear. It's you and me, bro!

Alright, let's get down to business. Remember last time?

Y'know... her... Skogsra...

• I remember.
• I'd already forgot.

Figured you would... she was a memorable girl for you too, huh?

Oh, don't you worry about me.

I know that a guy like you couldn't forget a thing like that, after all.

Ever since then... I don't really know what love is anymore, man.

It really forced me to admit what a shallow guy I am.

I know it's pretty funny, me having girl troubles all the way here in the Schwarzwelt...

But it's gotten so bad, I haven't been able to focus on my duties.

But see, then I heard this rumor.

There's a deity who can teach guys how to "gain the love of all women"...

Plus, it's a goddess! A chick deity!

And I thought, man, I'd like to learn from that goddess...

I'm sure she could teach me some good stuff and set me on the right track.

So there you have it. Can you look for that goddess?

Tell her there's a stray, lovelorn man here...

Oh, and here's what you're looking for: I hear she rides a camel.

A lady on a camel... I guess?

I'm counting on you, buddy!

Oh, you busy or something?

That's cool. Whenever you have time, man. Come back and see me if you wanna help a bro out.

Oh, hey (your name). Did you talk to that goddess?

You reported to Anthony...

...What? Are you kidding me?

Th-Then... Just now... That was...!

Er... See, just before you came, I met this one woman.

Come to think of it, she was riding a camel. How did I not realize...!?

It was just so sudden, and she talked like a normal girl, so...

She gave me a lot of good advice. I thanked her, and she said, "You're welcome."

And then before I knew it, she was gone.

Man, what a waste, huh?

I was talking to a real live goddess, and I feel like it wasn't any big thing.

Well... I wouldn't hit on her. Definitely out of my league.

Ohhhh, yeah. I almost forgot.

That goddess actually gave me a message to pass on to you.

She said, "If you need me, use these words to establish a bond"...

But the stuff she wrote down here doesn't make any sense. It's just a bunch of letters.

I thought it'd be like, a phone number or an email.

Or is this what that stuff looks like in the divine realms?

Well, well... looks like a goddess has taken a liking to you...

Maybe you're the luckiest guy around, huh?

Oh yeah, while I'm at it...

Hey, (your name). I figure I might as well ask...

When all this is over, could you hook me up with someone?

C'mon, man, you heard what that goddess said... share the love...!

I'm counting on you!

...My fellow American, huh? You're, what, a Corps man?

So you volunteered, I hear? Heh... Me, I only signed on to this gig for the money. That's all.

For all we know, the brass at the Joint Project are sending us out as meat shields.

And I'm sure you have no idea what I'm talking about. Semper fi, right? Heh...

Offer Jimenez a handshake?

• Yes
• No

......

I have this thing about not getting too friendly with people before a risky mission.

When the crunch comes, you may need to leave a comrade behind for the sake of the mission.

Yeah... let's not get too friendly.

No telling whether one of us might need to leave the other to die for the sake of the mission...

...You still want something from me? I got nothing else to say to you, man.

So this is the Demonica... It's the first time I've worn it, but it's greater than I imagined.

I feel like there's no mission I can't accomplish with this thing on.

Hah, listen to me. I better look over the briefing notes before I get too lovestruck with the thing.

I can view those in the Documents folder in the Mission Log, right?

Isn't this your first time using the Demonica, too? You really should check this stuff out.

You can access the Mission Log by pressing the X Button.

It's a handy way to review important information.

Here we are on an investigation, and it's nothing but trouble right from the start.

But I guess I'm not cut out for this job if I let things like that faze me.

I'm counting on you, (your name). Save those crewmen.

I heard you're going to go rescue the survivors from the Blue Jet. Best of luck with that.

If you can save them, I know it'll do a lot for our morale.

Whether or not we succeed this time could turn the tide of the whole mission. I think so, anyway.

I guess the distress signal came from that Jimenez chap. He was at the briefing with us.

Based on how he was acting then, I'm not surprised he's still alive.

Though he won't last long against the demons...

...Let's go. I don't want to lose a valuable fighting man.

Man... things have really taken a turn for the worse, wouldn't you say?

Commander Gore's dead, and that Jimenez guy he died saving is bringing everyone else down.

I always felt like it was my job to keep everyone on an even keel... But this is too much.

I know you're grieving over the Commander's death, and I'm not telling you to stop.

But we're supposed to be the best of the best. We don't get the luxury of taking breaks.

So get your gear in order and pay your respects to the man by doing your duty.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

This is good... it looks like the color is returning to everyone's faces.

I've noticed things getting pretty dismal since the briefing. Good to see that starting to change.

Let's hope we can ride this wave all the way to the mission's completion.

A mysterious energy signature right at the heart of the demons' lair... It doesn't bode well.

Which is exactly why we have to go.

Opening doors and paving the way in the face of death... that's a soldier's lot.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

...I'll be honest, I made a bet with a friend before I came on this mission.

It was on whether or not the footage from the probes was real...

Heheh... now I HAVE to get back to the surface alive.

I've got 100 Euros waiting for me.

I consider myself a seasoned soldier, but there's still something about a battlefield.

Especially the one below here... It looks like they dug through the past--it's like a World War.

Whoever made this place has some rotten taste.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

It's not really my metier to be so scientific and ramble about demon fusion and things of that sort.

I just like raising them. When one of mine gains a level, I get a certain sense of satisfaction.

Now that you've got me going, I wouldn't mind teaching you the ins and outs of raising demons.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

In any situation, you'd be surprised at how many survivors you find.

But don't celebrate just yet. It's much more difficult to save their skins than your own...

It's at times like that when you need to be positive of the strength of your forces.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Diversions are all well and good as far as they go, but you hold the key to success.

You've already returned from their lair alive once...

With your skill, I'm sure you can pull it off a second time.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

It was Norris' own weakness that killed him. There's no reason why you should feel responsible.

Besides... grieving won't bring him back. We have our own necks to worry about.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Hey, welcome to the sector Carina shopping center!

Our awful location, lousy selection, and terrible customer service make us #1 in shopper mortality!

I was only joking around, but... I'm sure that's the demons' plan. Never let your guard down.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

So that's our weapon against Horkos...

I can't believe we couldn't damage it without heavy ordnance like that... He's a tough one.

Well, let's go give him a faceful from the bottom of our hearts.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Can you believe Horkos tried to eat the entire ship!? Has he got a black hole for a stomach?

Oh, well... Even if he does, we've got more than enough bullets to feed him.

If we pile it on, he'll quiet down eventually and spit out that Rosetta.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

It's simple courtesy to let a man who died in the line of duty rest in peace.

"Rest In Peace." I even inscribed it on the Commander's stasis tank.

And now someone's gone and disturbed his rest. Ridiculous...

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

While economically well-off nations enjoy peace, there are other countries constantly at war...

I've been to a lot of those places, tasting the bitterness of human strife with my own tongue.

...I thought I'd be able to forget it on this mission, but that hope died quickly...

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Considering what's at stake on this mission, brainwashing devices don't come as much of a shock.

Even so, looking at the real thing like this, I'm a little disappointed...

That machine destroys any notion of trust or camaraderie...

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Somebody said it was bad luck that parasite's going around, but it doesn't seem that way to me.

I haven't heard you talk about it much, but I'm sure you feel the same way.

Humans in conflict with each other, and now a mental parasite... it's too coincidental for "bad luck."

But if somebody is pulling strings behind the scenes, I guess it's up to us to find out who...

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Sure, it's a fair question whether we call him "Commander" or "Gore."

But to my mind, that's ignoring the more important and troubling issue.

Did he awaken of his own will...? Or was his rest disturbed?

I think how we approach him will depend a lot on which it is.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

The higher-ups at the Joint Project seem to have absolute confidence in their plan...

What do you think, (your name)?

• It'll work.
• I don't know.

...I see. Well, whether we believe or disbelieve, it's not as if we can do anything to change it.

The best we can do is have faith while carrying out our duties.

...Yeah. One never knows what can happen on the battlefield.

And this is the Schwarzwelt we're talking about. Our enemies are not of this world.

...Though ultimately, nothing will come of this skepticism. Best to concentrate on the mission.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

That Jack fellow... I don't like him. He's a dangerous sort.

I'm a mercenary myself back on Earth. I know his type when I see it.

...By the way, do you know the story of Jack the Ripper?

• Yes
• No

Good. Then I don't have to explain.

It's a story from a long time ago. He was a serial killer who plunged the city of London into fear.

...I hope our heads aren't chopped off by our own "Jack"...

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

I guess to defeat Ouroboros, we'll have to cut off their supply lines.

It's funny that the demons finally decided to go with practical battle approaches in the end.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

So I hear there are some bastards who decided to butt in on our escape plans.

I don't know what they want, but they've got some nerve treating us like pawns...

I guess talking it over won't solve anything. We have to go.

That's the only way we can fight back.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

I never trusted them, but I didn't think they had it in them to pull something like that.

They're just as much of an X factor as the demons now.

If you're going, be as careful as you would approaching a demon...

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

It's quite dangerous to be alone in enemy territory, but a man like Jimenez should have no problems.

And if anything does happen, Arthur and the Ops team will come up with something.

Let's focus our best efforts into the mission at Fornax.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

That nauseating smell that comes from humans driven mad by greed for money and power...

I can't believe that smell I found so odious on Earth is present here in the Schwarzwelt, too...

I can't let this go on. Let's go quash it at the source.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Nobody will ever know if Jimenez strongly admired demons...

But there's no doubt that he made his decision to become more powerful.

Rather than be the demons' master, he chose to be closer to them... to be one of them.

And there's no telling what that choice might lead to...

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Grus appears to be a compilation of all the sectors we've explored previously.

...It changes its form and nature from one floor to the next, to welcome us.

Let's go. Don't let it get you down. This whole mission scarcely has any hope of ending, anyway.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Jack was a professional. He was strict about order, and his crew was organized logically.

Not Ryan, though... His greed has gotten to his head, and what once was a squad is now merely a gang.

I heard Zelenin stopped Jimenez when he tried to kill Ryan...

I think that was a mistake.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

I'm not overly fond of angels.

On the battlefield, angels of mercy and angels of death are the same. They both come for you.

I hope Zelenin hasn't become our very own angel of death.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

One of the few perks of a strike team is that important decisions about battle aren't yours to make.

"The Queen commands and we obey," and such. They handle the political end so we can do the real work.

...In that regard, you've drawn the short straw.

Don't worry about it. Just think how much they owe you now.

No one will raise a furore over your judgement.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

Looks like we've got that sorted.

I don't like this political give and take with everyone's ulterior motives all tangled up.

Now I can concentrate on the mission at hand. It's quite exhilarating, really.

...If you have any doubts, make sure they're answered before you go out. It's common sense.

A leader commands his team with his entire heart and soul...

But to have Gore come back to lead us... Ironic, isn't it?

...I think we should go.

Prompt response to a leader's call is essential to the smooth running of an operation.

Aheheh... Can you feel that...? It's our freedom...!

Now... the real mission starts... Hurry... we need to let it out...

This overflowing, violent energy!

What's the matter...? Are you feeling burned by the fear...?

If not, let's go! Let's gooooo!

The world... where the passion of combat overflows... it's just within our reach...!

I had seen many a battle, and my hands and heart were caked with grime and filth.

I felt thus even when I worked as a minion of the Joint Project on this mission.

Yet when Zelenin's pure light touched me, my tainted soul was made clean.

I shall devote my body, my life, and my soul to the Lord.

Your battle with Mem Aleph is close at hand.

But fear not. Zelenin and the Lord on high is with us...

Let us fight this last holy battle together, with courage.

What an impatient Commander to say only what he needs to say before disappearing...

Though... I'm sure it's foolish to try to hold on to a man whose time has come.

...I at least hope that Gore rests in peace, and that his final plan will succeed.

...I can't believe we're having a simple chat before the impending battle.

Are you scared? Is that it?

• Of course I am.
• That's not it.

...So am I. I'm not a machine that feels not a hint of fear in such a dire situation.

Fear is the key to survival. It motives one to prepare, and those who are prepared tend to survive.

Don't neglect your fear, or your preparations either.

...You feel no fear at a time like this? Is that courage, or are you more machine than man?

Ah, well... As long as you don't neglect your preparations, we can still win.

I expect nothing less than your usual excellence.

Well then, I'll send what data I have to your Demonica.

It's condensed, but it should serve you well. You can review it at your leisure.

Well then, I'll send what data I have to your Demonica.

It's condensed, but it should serve you well. You can review it at your leisure.

Teamwork is important. Attacking in tandem will defeat an enemy cleanly and efficiently.

It's no different on this mission. You'll need to cooperate closely with your demons.

When any party member exploits an enemy's weakness...

Other party members of the same alignment will automatically perform a followup attack.

This is called Demon Co-Op.

Demon Co-Op attacks deal followup damage on top of exploiting the weakness. It's quite devastating.

Striking an enemy's weakness will deal more damage, already giving you an advantage.

But if you use Demon Co-Op on top of that, the damage will increase even further.

Use this to dominate your enemies in combat.

If you want the full rundown on Demon Co-Op, I'd be happy to oblige.

First, the damage you do depends on how many allies participate in the followup attack.

The strength of the Demon Co-Op depends on how many allies share the initiator's alignment.

To maximize your damage, you should include more allies of the same alignment in your party.

The setup is tricky, but the damage dealt will be worth the effort.

Next I'll touch on alignment, in case you don't know about it already.

You're probably aware that there are different alignments...

But that doesn't mean there are different types of Demon Co-Op attacks.

The only thing that matters in Demon Co-Op attacks is whether or not the alignment is the same.

Different alignments do not mean more damage dealt or different effects of the attack.

As an aside, the Demon Co-Op will not always work, even if you strike their weakness.

If the enemy is defending, the Demon Co-Op will not trigger even if you attack its weakness.

A defending enemy is protecting its weakness, preventing Demon Co-Op from working.

It doesn't happen often, but it's something to keep in mind.

It sounds complex, but the two key points are "strike its weakness" and "same alignment."

If you keep those points in mind, you can defeat even the most powerful foes.

Among the various afflictions is something called Bomb status.

The name says it all, really: you turn into a bomb.

One that explodes at the slightest touch... a very dangerous state to be in.

When a character is afflicted with Bomb status, there is a high risk that he will explode.

When this happens, that character will be KOed, and his allies will suffer collateral damage.

The amount of damage done depends on the exploding character's remaining HP.

If a character with high HP explodes, the entire party could be KOed.

This is a very dangerous situation to be in, so be quick to defuse it when it happens.

If you are unable to cure the Bomb status, all is not lost.

Just protect it from any severe shocks until you can defuse it.

If the character in Bomb status is defending, the bomb will not go off.

If you can't defuse the bomb, stay calm and have the afflicted character defend.

Well then, I'll send what data I have to your Demonica.

It's condensed, but it should serve you well. You can review it at your leisure.

Occasionally upon leveling up, your demon will give you an item.

I don't know whether it's because their mood is good, or they want to thank you.

Demons who have leveled up will sometimes give you an item as a gift.

The gift is dependent on the demon giving it, but you can expect to receive rare or expensive items.

Should this happen during a full or new moon, you may receive an even rarer item.

Though difficult to time precisely, remember in the back of your mind that it is possible.

This is only my intuition, but... Some demon races seem to be more generous or stingy than others.

The generosity of a demon generally depends on its race.

Which are cheapskates and which are magnanimous? Experiment and find out for yourself.

Oh, it's just what it sounds like. One of the skills your demon knows will change into something else.

Upon leveling up, one of your demon's skills may change.

The demon will inform you when this happens, so it is your choice whether or not to allow it.

If you agree, the demon's skill will change.

If you don't, nothing will happen. The demon may be disappointed, but there is no drawback for you.

Just remember: change is not always good.

At times, the skill may become something wonderful; at other times, something utterly useless.

Life, and battle, is a continuum of choices.

The new skill you obtain from a skill change will not always necessarily benefit you.

There is always the risk that an essential skill will become something devoid of value.

Will you seize the opportunity to evolve, fearless of the risks, or be cautious and remain as is?

Here, I'll explain how one collects Demon Sources.

As for their use, that falls under the aegis of demon fusion. I'd talk to Williams about that.

But getting it... it's essentially the same as a gift from a demon.

Think of it this way: when you meet certain conditions, the Demon Source will be a special gift.

You can obtain a Demon Source when a demon whose analysis level is MAX levels up.

If you currently possess that Demon Source, you cannot get another.

It is also very difficult to get a second Demon Source from demons who have already given you one.

Carefully consider the timing of both your acquisition and usage of Demon Sources.

Jimenez message test

Zelenin message test