Granblue Story Archives

Having conquered both Golonzo and Valtz, the Holy Erste Empire arrives in Port Breeze and soon clashes with the allied forces waiting there. Pommern and Orchis are directing the defense effort when they're surrounded by soldiers, but they're saved by the sudden intervention of Gran and the crew.

Word of the Holy Erste Empire's domination of Golonzo spreads like wildfire across the skydom.

But because the previous large-scale conflict in Phantagrande was not long ago, skyfarers far and wide cannot contain their surprise at Orchid's sudden allegiance with the new empire.

After claiming Golonzo, the Holy Erste Empire advances on the Valtz Duchy.

Although the duchy resists, Valtz's Grand Arsenal falls to the empire's new weaponry.

The empire makes headway into the Port Breeze Archipelago next.

There they encounter an allied force consisting mostly of the Erste Kingdom army. It becomes a clash of two sides that once flew the same banner.

Pommern

We will not lose formation, I do say! Cover all blind spots and fight back!

Pommern

Fifth and sixth battalions, I need you to reinforce the eastern block!

Pommern

And I shouldn't have to remind you that evacuation of civilians and injured troops must come first, I absolutely do say!

Erste Kingdom S.

Yes sir!

The stamping of feet and the loud clangor of swords resonate across the battlefield.

Orchis

...

Pommern

Your Highness. Please take care not to stray too far from me.

Pommern

Prime Minister Adam was adamant that no harm must come to you.

Orchis

Right... I'm sorry for insisting that I come along.

Orchis

But I just had to see for myself...

Orchis

What could Orchid possibly be doing with those people...

Orchis anxiously looks past the thick dust clouds that envelop the battlefield.

Pommern does the same, but his anxiety is of a different kind.

Pommern

Their soldiers are incredibly well-trained, I must say.

Pommern

And they've not even revealed their new armaments to us yet, which they had unleashed on Valtz.

Orchis

But there are many who, inspired by the bravery of Gran's crew, choose to fight with us.

Pommern

Mm... To be honest, I don't think we can rely on them too much.

Pommern

Most of them are kids and civilians. I'd actually feel better if they'd simply evacuate.

Pommern's expression quickly turns grim as he focuses his attention on a single exchange.

Pommern

Oh my, this is really bad!

Aspiring Youth

Crap! They've got us surrounded!

Swordswoman?

I-I can't do this! I'm an actor, not a fighter!

Swordswoman?

I was only practicing with a sword because I heard the story of that legendary crew would be turning into a stage production...

Helmsman?

M-maybe if we show that we're not going to resist, they'll spare our lives...

Lizard?

Kweh!

Aspiring Youth

Are you serious...

Aspiring Youth

The real Gran would never give up so easily!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 1

You insist on fighting then?

Holy Erste Imp. S. 1

Don't expect us to go easy on you simply because you're children!

Aspiring Youth

...!

Pommern

Rgh!

Aspiring Youth

Y-you...

Pommern

No time to be spacing out, boy! Run for it while you still can!

Erste Kingdom S.

General Pommern! Are you safe?

Pommern

These three are civilians, are they not? See to it that they make it out of here safely!

Erste Kingdom S.

Yes sir!

Pommern calls out to Orchis while keeping a close watch on the encroaching enemy troops.

Pommern

Please fall back, Your Majesty! Even with me by your side, this is much too dangerous, I do say!

Orchis

...!

Orchis hesitates for but a moment before sensing the danger for herself and nods in response.

Orchis

Okay! You stay safe too, Pommern.

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

Humph... It's too late for you!

Orchis

...!
Oh no!

Orchis's retreat is cut off as imperial soldiers circle around her.

Pommern

Your Majesty!

Pommern

(I-I'll have to use dark essence again!)

Pommern

Ngh!

Orchis

Pommern!

Pommern

(M-my body can't handle it anymore...)

One soldier points his weapon at the two.

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

Queen Orchis and General Pommern of the Erste Kingdom!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

The Holy Erste Empire is the rightful government of Erste, and we therefore exercise our right to punish you traitors!

But the glimmer of hope in Orchis's eyes never fades as she continues to stare daggers at the enemy.

Orchis

Who are you people? Why do you claim to be Erste?

Orchis

That title belongs to us... We are the ones who've been entrusted to lead Erste!

Orchis

I'll never forgive you for sullying the name of my country and using it to terrorize others.

Orchis

Gran's crew fought a long, hard battle to liberate us from oppression.

Orchis

That's why we're going to do everything within our power to protect these skies!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

Humph... Insolent little brat. Can't you even beg for mercy properly?

Orchis

I am, after all, the daughter of the revered late Queen Viola...

Lofty aspirations, unwavering commitment to her duty, and noble pride all burn bright within Orchis's downcast eyes.

Orchis

Having ascended to the throne only recently, I still have so much more to accomplish and have yet to amass much power...

Orchis

That's why I absolutely will not give in to such treachery!

Orchis

This is the one thing I can do as queen, and so I will not yield!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

Hah! This is what happens when you let a little brat up on the throne!

Orchis involuntarily flinches as a sword comes swinging down at her.

Orchis

...!

The clanging of swords resonates, but there is no harm done to Orchis. She anxiously opens her eyes.

Orchis

Ah...

Dialogue Option

Are you okay!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

Urgh, another scamp to deal with! How'd a runt like this hold off my sword?

Orchis

Gran!

Orchis sees the crew gallantly fending off the imperial soldiers.

Katalina

Haaah!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 3

Urgh!

Rackam

Hahah! Seeing this armor really takes me back!

Eugen

That's for sure! Who would've thought we'd end up fighting these chumps again!

Vyrn

Hehe! Let's show 'em how much stronger we are now!

Really now, Vyrn... It's not exactly like you actually do much in battle, you know...

Holy Erste Imp. S. 4

Urgh!

Rosetta

Haha... Vyrn may not prove useful in combat, but he's no doubt a precious ally.

Gran and company continue to chat while clearing the enemy forces.

Aspiring Youth

Wow! It's really them!

Lyria

Are you okay? Orchis!

Dialogue Option

You're safe now.

Pommern

Good grief, couldn't you have come a bit sooner?

Dialogue Option

I'll keep her safe.

Pommern

Good grief, couldn't you have come a bit sooner?

Orchis

Thank goodness you were okay this whole time, Gran!

Orchis

I was so worried when I heard you were caught up in the Grim Basin from the Silverwind Stretch...

Dialogue Option

We can talk about that later.

Orchis

R-right!

Orchis

First things first... Please help see us through this plight, Gran!

After rebuffing the Holy Erste Empire's assault, Gran and the others watch as the battleship makes a retreat; they catch a glimpse of a girl who looks like Orchid standing on the deck of ship the with a Harvin man. Later, Orchis informs the crew that the Holy Erste Empire has claimed Golonzo and the Valtz Duchy.

Rackam

All righty... Who wants to be our next target?

Holy Erste Imp. S. 1

Tch... These guys are tough. We can't handle them alone!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

Judging from their numbers, they must be that famed crew.

Holy Erste Imp. S. 2

We must inform His Imperial Majesty at once! They're the ones we've been looking for!

???

So they've come.

Holy Erste Imp. S. 3

Yes! We currently have two companies engaging them, but this is a losing battle!

At the Holy Erste Empire's main camp, a Harvin man is being briefed on the situation.

In marked contrast to the panicking soldier, he calmly speaks to the girl beside him.

???

Did you see the original there?

???

No. Just a bunch of losers.

???

Sigh... How much longer will it be until she comes before us?

Seeing the girl's reaction, the Harvin man relays his next orders to the soldier.

???

The situation's changed. We're pulling out.

???

Mass production of the suits is already on track. There's no point expending our resources here.

???

Have everyone fall back. We must keep losses to a minimum.

Holy Erste Imp. S. 3

Yes sir!

Holy Erste Imp. S. 1

Stand down, everyone! Our orders are to withdraw immediately!

The appearance of Gran and company has altered the situation on the battlefield.

Vyrn

They're making a getaway back to their ship!

Vyrn

They're making a getaway back to their ship!

Orchis

Wow... Things changed the moment Gran's crew arrived...

Pommern

Indeed... It's bone-chilling what they've become capable of.

Though the situation grows more relaxed, something aboard the imperial battleship catches Io's attention.

Wait... But...

Rosetta

Everything okay, Io? You look like you've seen a ghost.

I mean, just look at that! On that ship is...

The Harvin man and the girl watch from the deck of the imperial battleship as soldiers come running onboard.

???

...

???

...

Katalina

That Harvin... It can't be...

Dialogue Option

Furias?

That girl with pale-blue hair and red eyes...

Lyria

Orchid?

Lyria

No... This person's hair and eye color are the same, and her face does resemble Orchid, but she seems different somehow...

Queen Orchis also looks on puzzledly at the sight in the distance.

Orchis

(Ah, so this is who they meant when they claimed to have Orchid on their side...)

Orchis

(She definitely bears a resemblance, but she's not Orchid...)

Orchis

(But then who is she then?)

Although it occurred as a natural progression of events, the crew ended up joining with the royal forces and successfully fought off the Holy Erste Empire.

They rejoice in their victory and catch up on everything that's come to pass.

Orchis

So all of that was going on in Nalhegrande...

Orchis

I'm worried about Orchid and the others who got separated, but...

Orchis

For now... I just want to say welcome back, Gran! And all of you!

Orchis

I'm so glad you're all okay!

Dialogue Option

It's good to be home.

Lyria

Mm-hm! It's great to see you too, Orchis!

Orchis

When I heard the Grim Basin swallowed you up, I was scared to death...

Vyrn

Welp, it was one heck of a crazy ride.

A crazy ride that still hasn't ended apparently...

Dialogue Option

Anyway, you seem to be doing well.

Orchis

Uh-huh! Thanks, Gran!

Orchis

I've been doing what I can for the betterment of the kingdom.

Pommern

I do say, Prime Minister Adam seemed rather adamant that I watch out for Your Majesty's health.

Pommern

He mentioned you collapsing during the middle of a meeting the other day.

Orchis

Ah, ahaha... Yeah, that did happen...

Orchis

But I'm okay! I can't be taking it easy; there's too much work to do!

The crew requests details concerning the earlier battle.

Katalina

There's a lot we want to ask, but can you start by telling us who those assailants were?

Rackam

Come to think of it, they were wearing Erste armor. That can't be right. What in the skies is going on?

We helped out because we saw you being attacked, but...

Were they really soldiers of your kingdom? Not to mention the two figures we spotted on that battleship...

Orchis

There's still so much we don't know...

Pommern

Allow me to explain everything that's happened as of late.

Gran and company learn all of the available information about the Holy Erste Empire.

Pommern

And that's the gist of it, I do say.

Rackam

Whoa, you've gotta be kidding me. How could Golonzo...

Eugen

The soldiers earlier definitely seemed battle-hardened, but could Golonzo really be taken so easily?

V-Valtz too? But how? Master Tzaka's there!

Pommern expounds upon the grim news.

Pommern

That golem girl claiming to be Orchid was a major factor.

Pommern

Tales of your crew's travels have spread all over Phantagrande.

Pommern

"The brave skyfarers who fight to stop the evil empire. And the golem who was born at the end of it all..."

Pommern

Orchid has become a symbol of peace for Phantagrande.

Pommern

And with her as an ally of the Holy Erste Empire...

Pommern

It's no wonder many would hesitate to fight back.

That's terrible...

Lyria

But the one on that ship was...

Lyria

She wasn't Orchid, was she? She definitely looked similar, but...

Orchis

There aren't that many people who've actually met Orchid in person...

Orchis

Most know her as the golem girl with blue hair and red eyes.

Vyrn

Hm... That definitely fits the profile of the girl on that ship...

Orchis

There's still a lot we don't know...

Orchis

For instance, highly sophisticated golems like Orchid and Adam can't be created by just anyone.

Orchis

The technology to create such wonders is supposed to exist only in Erste...

Orchis, too, finds the Holy Erste Empire's sudden appearance rather disturbing.

Orchis

We all share the name "Erste," yet we must fight one another.

Orchis

I left the defense of Mephorash to Adam while coming with reinforcements to Port Breeze.

Rosetta

And that's when we bumped into you after returning from the Edgelands.

Vyrn

Boy, a lot sure has happened ever since we left Phantagrande...

First thing we ought to do is take back Valtz and Golonzo!

Before anything happens to Master Tzaka!

Sierokarte

If it's Tzaka the Great you're worried about, you can rest assured that he's fine!

Lyria

Siero! Long time no see!

Katalina

Wait, Sierokarte. Isn't the Valtz Duchy under imperial rule right now?

Sierokarte

Truth is, there's a secret communications network between the Valtz and Golonzo trade associations.

Sierokarte

And what I've been hearing from the grapevine is that the imperial army has set up labor camps and is keeping a watchful eye, but the conditions aren't quite so bad.

Eugen

You mean you've been communicatin' with 'em back and forth without the imperials noticing?

Sierokarte

Well, you know what they say: intel is a merchant's greatest weapon.

Sierokarte

Word is the Holy Erste Empire took over Valtz and Golonzo to create something really big.

Sierokarte

That's why they're being especially careful to treat the craftsmen with respect, so that everyone will cooperate.

I see...

Sierokarte

I'll let Tzaka know you're okay, Io!

Sierokarte

He seemed really worried ever since he heard you'd been sucked into the Grim Basin.

Okay! Thanks, Siero!

Gran and company breathe sighs of relief at Sierokarte's briefing.

With the imperial force having retreated, the town gradually returns to a state of normalcy.

Sierokarte

You guys really pulled through here!

Sierokarte

The local militia and skyfarers did their best to keep the enemy at bay...

Sierokarte

But Port Breeze would be under imperial rule right now if Queen Orchis and your crew hadn't come to the rescue, Gran.

Orchis

We simply fight for our honor as Erste...

Orchis

But Gran ended up saving us again.

Pommern

Forgive me for being so incapable...

Orchis

Ah, that's not what I'm trying to say! You worked wonders for us, Pommern...

Orchis

I'm the one that's really powerless...

The crew has no words for the despondent Orchis.

But Eugen quickly switches the topic with a quick comment.

Eugen

Aw, shoot. Golonzo's occupied, huh...

Eugen

That'll have to be our next destination if we want the Grandcypher repaired.

Rackam

That's right... Makes me wonder how Noa's faring over there.

But we can't leave Valtz be either! Master Tzaka and the townspeople need our help!

Dialogue Option

We're going to Golonzo.

Siero speaks up in a surprisingly meek tone.

Dialogue Option

We're going to Valtz.

Siero speaks up in a surprisingly meek tone.

Sierokarte

Gran... I don't want to harp on this, but...

Sierokarte

Would you consider resting for a bit?

Sierokarte

From what I've heard, you've been through a really trying journey to get back here.

Katalina

That couldn't be more true... I'm quite exhausted to be honest.

Rosetta

I've completely lost track of day and night ever since we got back from the Edgelands.

Sierokarte

Besides, if the Grandcypher's in disrepair, you'll probably need to set out on another airship.

Sierokarte

Give me a bit of time, and I'll find you a brand spanking new ride soon enough!

B-but what about Master Tzaka?

Orchis

Pommern... Can we mobilize our army?

Pommern

Huh? Ah, well, yes...

Orchis

Perhaps we should go ahead to Valtz first...

Orchis

It wouldn't be right to depend on Gran's crew for every little—

Orchis

...

Pommern

Your Majesty!

Lyria

Orchis!

The queen, suddenly feeling faint, goes weak at the knees but catches herself before crumpling over.

Orchis

I-I'm okay... This has been happening every now and then lately, so I've gotten used to it.

Pommern

I do say... that this is a sign you are absolutely not okay!

Pommern

Especially since we don't know what's causing it, you are definitely better off resting for now!

Orchis

...

Sierokarte

I guess that means we're all taking a short break.

Things finally come to a calm as everyone decides to settle in until preparations for the next move are complete.

Yet an indescribable uneasiness continues to stir in their hearts.

The night after the Holy Erste Empire's failed assault on Port Breeze, Loki, Fenrir, and Mikaboshi appear in the Angads Highlands. Loki tells his traveling companions how he desires allies to understand both Gran's crew and his brother.

With the clamor of the battle against the Holy Erste Empire all but gone, a quiet night descends upon the Port Breeze Archipelago.

The crew is resting up in anticipation of a difficult battle ahead at Golonzo and Valtz.

Meanwhile...

In the Angads Highlands, not too far from Port Breeze, a traveler walks the path with his primal beast.

Loki

Looks like the silly ruckus in town is over and done with.

Loki

So they're calling themselves the Holy Erste Empire, huh? I wonder who's behind it...

Loki

I spotted a few familiar faces; maybe I should go say hello later. I'm sure they'd be happy to see me.

Fenrir

So, Loki. What do we do with... this?

Loki

Good question... It's true that I once called myself the emperor of Erste.

Loki

But that was only... how should I put it... my way of spiting Freesia...

Loki

I have no intentions of playing that card any—

Fenrir

Gah, that's not what I'm asking! You're avoiding the subject just to annoy me, aren't you!

Fenrir

Just tell me how much longer I've gotta babysit this kid!

Mikaboshi

...

Clutched in her paw is the hand of a dazed Mikaboshi.

Loki

I'm sure it's not easy, Fenrir.

Loki

But you know, you're actually pretty good at this nanny thing.

Fenrir

Grr!

Loki

Kidding, kidding. No need to get your fur in a bunch.

Fenrir

Screw you... Call me a nanny again, and I might just bite your hand off.

Loki

Ooh, scary. I guess I'd better watch out then.

Fenrir

Humph...

Loki clutches his head in an aloof manner while Fenrir turns to Mikaboshi behind them.

Mikaboshi

...

Fenrir

You still haven't answered my question. She hasn't shown much of a response ever since her seal was broken.

Loki

For one thing, she's definitely free of the seal. The power she demonstrated at the Edgelands is proof of that.

Loki

Maybe what we're seeing is a rebound effect. She was sealed for a long time after all.

Loki

It's possible she hasn't regained her full consciousness as an Astral.

Fenrir

So we're just gonna leave her be?

Fenrir

I'm not her damn pony, and I'm not gonna toss her on my back anymore.

Mikaboshi

...

Loki

...

Loki speaks gently while looking into Mikaboshi's empty eyes.

Loki

We might need an airship ourselves soon.

Loki

A vessel for traversing the skies, and a place to call home...

Loki

Considering the places we'll be going, we should consider picking one up soon.

Loki stares ahead at the shipwrecked Grandcypher.

Fenrir

...

Fenrir, however, is still focused on the Astral girl.

Fenrir

So tell me... What was the point of picking up Mikaboshi?

Loki

Altruism. As a fellow Astral, I wanted to give her the chance to fulfill her ambitions.

Fenrir

Then she'd just end up killing you. Wasn't the annihilation of all Astrals her endgame?

Loki

Yes, now wouldn't that be interesting to see? What a stimulating journey that would make.

Fenrir

Humph...

Loki remains as carefree as ever while Fenrir lets out an exasperated sigh.

Fenrir

I'll say this as many times as I'll have to until you get it...

Fenrir

I'll never betray you. No matter what path you choose, no matter what you do to me, I'll stick by you.

Fenrir

We decided that a long time ago.

Fenrir

So just tell me already. What are your plans?

Loki

What a loyal pet you are.

Fenrir

Pssh, cut the crap.

Loki sets his sights on the Grandcypher once again before peering further into the distance.

Loki

There's something I want... I'm in need of allies.

Fenrir

Allies?

Loki

I've been thinking a lot lately... about that crew and my brother.

Loki

I'll never understand them. That crew openly accepts anyone, making no distinction between skydweller or Astral. And my brother chose to live with skydwellers...

Loki

Whatever floats your boat, I told myself. I don't need to understand them.

Loki

However...

Loki looks down to his tightly clenched fists.

Loki

I can't help but want to understand them.

Loki

I have no use, per se, for understanding them.

Loki

And yet, as useless as the knowledge would be, I desire it all the same.

Loki

I want to know what makes them tick. What motivates that crew to continue their adventure? Why did my brother have to die?

Regret, confusion, denial, hatred, envy. All sorts of emotions well up within Loki.

Loki

What is it I need to share their worldview? It can only be something they have that I don't.

Loki

The answer... is allies. They've become companions with people all over the skies. And my brother was always surrounded by fellows of his own.

Loki

With allies, I'd be able to see things as they do. I would be able to understand the world through their views.

Loki

I'll finally know the meaning of my brother's death. And why that crew continues on its arduous journey.

Loki

That's why I've decided to make friends.

Fenrir appears unimpressed.

Fenrir

Friends, eh?

Fenrir

Explains why you had us go all the way to the Edgelands to bring Mikaboshi along.

Loki

Bingo. And we're going to find more on the way. At least until I understand what it is that drives that crew.

Loki

Which is why we're going to need an airship to start out.

Loki

What say we take a little trip to Golonzo...

Loki

Well, Fenrir?

Fenrir

Meh... Whatever.

Mikaboshi

...

Fenrir, still holding hands with Mikaboshi, begins to walk off.

Loki

Wait, wait, Fenrir. Don't leave me back here.

Fenrir

...

Loki

Don't tell me... Did I just put you in a bad mood?

Fenrir

...

Fenrir turns back to Loki before responding.

Fenrir

Like I said, I'll follow you no matter what happens. It's what we agreed on. You did hear me just a moment ago, right?

Loki

Of course I did. How could I forget so soon.

Fenrir

Well, then—

Fenrir

...

Fenrir

Never mind. Let's just get going already.

Loki

Hm?
Yes, let's do that.

"What am I to you?"

Loki's newfound desire for friends begets a fundamental question in Fenrir.

But she ultimately decides to keep any concerns to herself for the time being.

While en route to free Golonzo of the Holy Erste Empire's control, the crew and Orchis discuss all known information about the empire. Because the empire doesn't have a headquarters in Phantagrande, Rosetta theorizes that whoever is pulling the empire's strings probably doesn't reside within the same skydom.

A small brigade of airships from Port Breeze makes its way to Golonzo.

Rackam

We're here...

Gran and company rested their weary bodies in Port Breeze for a few days.

After a full recovery, they enlisted Sierokarte's help and boarded a ship taking off for Golonzo.

Eugen

I don't see any smoke. Though they do have battleships scouting the perimeter.

Katalina

No sign of fire indicates Golonzo is complying with the empire's demands.

Katalina

Perhaps that's for the best if we consider the difference in military might. There's nothing gained from needless sacrifice.

Vyrn

Problem is, we'll never fix the Grandcypher at this rate...

Vyrn

We'll just have to kick those imperial fools to the curb and take back Golonzo!

Dialogue Option

Keep your eyes peeled.

Katalina

Hmm... As Vyrn suggests, the use of force might be called for, but then again we don't know who we're dealing with here.

Katalina

Despite the reinforcements we've brought, we would still be safer to not throw caution to the wind.

Dialogue Option

Valtz too.

Vyrn

Yeah! Saving Valtz would be a huge relief for Io!

While most of the crew is tense over what might happen in Golonzo, Io anxiously grips the letter in her hand.

...

Rosetta

Io... Is that letter from the archduke?

Mm-hmm... He says he's doing fine, so everything should be okay, but...

While the crew was resting, Sierokarte used her business connections to establish contact with Valtz.

After learning of the crew's situation and Io's safety, Tzaka the Great immediately got to writing a letter.

"Albeit Valtz is currently occupied, there is no threat as long as everyone complies with the empire's orders," the letter details.

They're keeping a close watch on Master Tzaka, so he's not able to move around freely.

And just like in Golonzo, because the empire needs the help of the craftsmen, they're treating the people well enough for now.

The letter also recommends striking back against Golonzo first, due to its strategic value.

And that is how the crew decided Golonzo would be their next destination.

Master Tzaka also suggested that the sooner we repair the Grandcypher, the better.

I know he said not to worry, but I can't help it...

Rosetta

Well, sometimes we just can't stop worrying about those we care about until we see them in person.

Rosetta

Besides, it's just like you to keep your loved ones close to your heart.

Mm...

Rosetta

We might not be able to visit the archduke yet...

Rosetta

But I'm sure there's a lot he taught you that you can put to good use.

You might be right...

Rosetta

Also, what do you think he might say if he saw you right now?

What would he say...

...

Io slaps herself hard with both hands.

This isn't the time to be dillydallying over the small stuff! I've gotta focus on what matters right now!

Rosetta

Hehe... That's right, Io.

Rosetta

But a real lady doesn't smack herself so hard.

Okay! If Master Tzaka says he's okay, then I'm going to trust him!

That doesn't mean I'm no longer worried about him, of course. So as soon as we've freed Golonzo, I'm making a beeline to my master!

That's the conclusion I've come to!

Rosetta

Haha...

Rosetta is relieved to see Io back to her usual gutsy self.

Just then a military man sporting a magnificently coifed goatee approaches.

Pommern

Tzaka the Great's made a wise decision, I do say!

Ah, Major Mustache!

Pommern

It's Captain Pommern, mind you!

Pommern lets out a cough before continuing.

Pommern

Golonzo houses the greatest airship dock in all of Phantagrande.

Pommern

This is the place to be if you need airship maintenance or repair, I do say.

Pommern

Agastia, too, once had a grandiose dock back in the day...

Pommern

But it's been shut down since. Not like there are any craftsmen left around there anyway.

Orchis

So in other words, if we consider the long-term prospects, taking back Golonzo first is essential if we're to win this war.

Orchis

Tzaka the Great was able to see all that... Looks like I still have a lot to learn.

Lyria

Orchis! You were on this same ship the whole time with Pommern?

Orchis

Mm-hm. The other ships are moving according to other strategic arrangements.

Pommern

I'm almost embarrassed to say this, but Her Majesty feels a lot safer around you all anyway.

Dialogue Option

You're making me blush, Major Mustache.

Pommern

Blah! Now you're just being a cheeky monkey!

Dialogue Option

We'll keep her out of harm's way.

Orchis

Thanks. I knew I could depend on you, Gran.

Following Rackam's example, Pommern looks forebodingly at the sight of Golonzo before them.

Pommern

This so-called Holy Erste Empire is up to no good, I do say.

Pommern

They're not holy, and they're definitely not Erste.

Pommern

And without any land, how can they possibly declare themselves an empire?

Rackam

Now that you mention it, where are their headquarters situated? They didn't just pop up outta nowhere, did they?

Rackam

Surely they come from some country or organization.

Orchis furrows her brows at the question.

Orchis

Actually, "pop up out of nowhere" is exactly what they did.

Pommern

Which begs more than a couple of questions...

Pommern

So I had Siero look into their cash flow, to see how they go about procuring their ships, weapons, and soldiers.

Orchis

Preparing such a massive force can't be cheap.

Orchis

But we couldn't find a trace of any such major transactions anywhere.

Lyria

That's scary to think about...

Katalina

Surely you can't amass an army like that without leaving some tracks, and certainly not overnight...

Eugen

It's Furias who's taken charge though.

Eugen

But I'm sure there's someone pulling the strings from behind. They just haven't come to the forefront yet.

Rosetta

Whoever that mastermind is pulled off an impossible feat, seemingly conjuring up an army out of thin air...

Rosetta

I imagine it's someone outside of Phantagrande.

But that was Furias we saw in the distance, wasn't it? Why would he attack us from outside the skydom?

What happened to him after our battle back in the Tower anyway?

Pommern responds bitterly.

Pommern

Well... The major general went missing...

Pommern

He simply vanished without a trace after the confrontation at the Tower...

Pommern

Since we couldn't find his body, we simply assumed he had fled the skydom, I do recall.

Lyria

But he seemed to be in so much pain at the time...

Lyria

It's hard to believe he was able to travel alone in that state...

Katalina

Then we should consider the possibility that someone could have won him over after rescuing him from the verge of death.

Vyrn

Who'd even go so far as to cross skydoms and put up with all this trouble?

Dialogue Option

Oh no...

The figure of the mysterious king and his sinister voice come to Gran's mind.
"Dear child..."

The captain is now more determined than ever to take back Golonzo in order to uncover the truth.