LUMINOUS ARC 2: WILL FAQ

(Accepting donations for ASCII art; must be 79 characters wide or less)

Table of Contents

?. Version History
A. Introduction
B. Copyright
C. The FAQ before the FAQ
D. The Story
E. Menus
F. Other Useful Information
G. Characters
H. Walkthrough
I. After Breaks
J. Quests
K. Lapis
L. To Do list
M. Credits

==================
?. Version History
==================

0.1 - Just starting out.  I've got part of the story done, a brief walkthrough
up to Chapter 10, a few After Breaks, some notes on Quests, and a very long To
Do list.

0.2 - Walkthrough complete to Chapter 20.  Changed the After Break notation a
bit.  Also changed a couple of character facts, put in a note about Lapis, and
started typing out the harder quests, and added someone to the copyright. Still
have a long To Do list.

0.3 - Walkthrough complete.  Added more notes on Lapis and more quests.  A
certain someone got a name change (I finally got to hear how his name sounds).
I didn't pay enough attention to one of my quests, so don't mind the question
marks.  Also, I seem to be short three quests.  Added a spoiler section to the
character sheet (it now contains everyone that's noteworthy, save one). Changed
my to-do list.  I still need dinner!

0.4 - American release!  Removed some questions from the FAQ before the FAQ,
and redid the character profiles a bit.  If you sent me e-mail, wait.  I'll
read/update with those changes later.

===============
A. Introduction
===============

Welcome to the Luminous Arc 2: Will FAQ!  This isn't my first FAQ, but this IS
the first time I'm writing an FAQ as I go along.  I am NOT fluent in Japanese,
so please bear with me.  Please refer to The FAQ before the FAQ for answers to
some questions that I think I'll be getting.

I hope you find the rest of this FAQ to be informative!

To search for a particular chapter, press Control + F, then enter "Chapter
[number]" (no quotes, and replace [number] with whatever chapter you're looking
for).

============
B. Copyright
============

You are free to read this/download this for personal use only.  I do NOT want
to see this sorry excuse of a guide in any sort of for-profit media.  The only
sites that are allowed to use this guide is GameFAQs and Super Cheats.  If you
want to use this guide on your site, e-mail me (my address is in the Credits),
and I will include you in the Copyright if I give you permission to use this
guide.

=========================
C. The FAQ before the FAQ
=========================

PLEASE read this section before e-mailing me.  I will ignore e-mails that are
answered here.

Q: When did this game come out?
A: May 15, 2008 in Japan, November 18, 2008 in America.

Q: Do I need to play the original Luminous Arc to enjoy this game?
A: Only if you insist on knowing the inside jokes.

Q: Your translations suck!
A: Live with it.

Q: I'm in the middle of a cut scene, and the game froze/the dialogue box
disappeared!
A: You probably pressed B.  To fix this, press B, then A.

Q: My cartridge doesn't work!
A: I can't help you with that!

Q: I'm on Chapter 25 (or so), and my game is starting to look funny!
A: This is a problem I have encountered several times after shopping in the
same place as your guild hall.  Save, and turn off the DS, then turn it back
on.  This will solve your problem.

Q: What is DP good for?  I can't use my character's FD!
A: DP can also be used to power up Arts.  To do this, choose an Art and select
a target.  When the hit rate and damage start flashing over the target, press
right on the control pad to use DP.  You'll notice that the damage increases by
10% per level.  If you change your mind, press left on the control pad to save
your DP for something else.  The same thing applies to Items.

Q: Is it better to use two level 1 FDs or one level 2 FD?
A: Unless you are in danger of dying, or you need the extra boost, stick to
level 1 FDs.

Q: Why am I stuck with a level 1 FD?
A: You get additional FD levels as you level up.

(the rest of these questions will contain spoilers)

Q: What is this game in relation to the first Luminous Arc?
A: It looks like it takes place a few years after the original, but in another
country.  I'm not far enough into the game to say something definite.

Q: Where's the Thunder Witch?
A: The closest thing to a Thunder Witch is on Chapter 30.

Q: Who made it in from the original Luminous Arc?
A: Alice and Therese are recruitable members.  Hugo, Cecille, and Vanessa
appear as a separate side quest. The monster sprites are the same.  Also, the
Kopin are back!

Q: Speaking of Kopin, will you do the translations for the Kopin Comics?
A: When I travel to an alternate dimension where my wrist doesn't hurt and I
have a month's worth of free time to myself.

Q: When do you get Alice and Therese?
A: Chapter 27, after the first dialogue. Go to the guild, and look for a level
3 mission involving apprentice witches.

Q: About Hugo, Cecille, and Vanessa. . .
A: You meet Hugo and Cecille right after you get to go back to the guild
(Chapter 25).  Go to Hemiel Dimwater Ruins to start a conversation, then go to
Bullhelm Mountain to start the chase.  Vanessa keeps running, and she'll level
up every time you meet her.  Plus, her stats are insane.  You don't get any of
these characters, but it's amusing to see Vanessa and Rasche argue.

Q: What happens after you finish the game?
A: You unlock the Omake section (the final selection on the menu that you see
when you want to continue your game); you'll initially get the gallery, scene
selection (for the hot springs), and soundtrack.  I don't know what the final
two are.  You can also load the cleared file (after watching the credits) to
start New Game+.

Q: What is New Game+?
A: After clearing the game for the first time, you restart the game.  The
monster levels are the same, but your characters retain their levels and
equipment.  Also, all your characters are in their final form, and you get your
inventory back.  You are allowed to use the other characters in storyline
battles (so if you want a Fatima vs. Fatima battle, you can).

Q: What's the point of the pre-battle conversations with Fatima?
A: Fill her heart meter, as well as something else. . .

============
D. The Story
============

(from: The Japanese Manual)

I. The Queen and the Guardian Knights

The Magic Nation of Carnava has been ruled by a queen for countless
generations.  Where ever humans settled, the Rev Magic Association's territory
spread.  The scenic beauty of the educational nation has made it a famous
place.  The realm is protected by three knights, all under the queen's direct
control, and a long peace has been perpetuated.

(more coming in a future update; that first part took me over an hour!)

========
E. Menus
========

(Note: This section exists in this much detail because this game is in a
language most people can't read.  It will be pared down if an English
translation becomes available.  I'm busy right now, so I'll edit this later)

First, watch the game's intro.  It's pretty.

Once the intro is finished, press any button.  You'll see a menu with five
options.  Here's the options, in order:

New Game - starts a New Game Load Game - loads game from the last Save Continue
- loads game from last Suspend Online - go online.  Is not available at the
beginning Omake - not available until the game has been cleared once

Go to the top option to start a New Game.

Once in the game, a rather lengthy dialogue starts.  For this and all other
dialogue scenes:

A button - Go to the next bit of dialogue B button - Freeze the touch screen,
removes the dialogue box.  Press B again to resume the dialogue. L button -
Skip the next part of dialogue.  Hold down L to get through all the dialogue
quickly.  It is near-impossible to read at that speed. R button - Auto.  The
dialogue will play through by itself.  Recommended if you aren't interested in
reading it, or are good at speed reading in Japanese. X button - Memory.  Will
be explained later. Start button - Options.  Explained below.

At just about any time, press the Start button for Options.  Here's the
options:

BGM on/off Sound Effects on/off Character Voices on/off Sound source
(speakers/earphones)

During those instances you're on the world map, make sure to look at the touch
screen.

A button - Go to highlighted place B button - Back out one step on the world
map L button - Save R button - Load X button - Camp.  Explained below. Start
button - Options (explained already)

Camping

The Camp menu has three options: Status, Items, and Memory

Status - See how your characters are doing.  This is also the place to equip
items (press A on a character portrait). Items - Look through your item stock,
and see explanations on Lapis you've collected. Memory - View information on
the various places you've been/people that have been mentioned/beasties you've
fought/etc.  Pressing X in the middle of a dialogue will go directly to this
screen.

There are two separate screens for battle - the pre-battle screen and the
battle screen.

Pre-battle

You can control where the characters appear in the pre-battle formation.  Make
sure to look UP to see what's going on!

Any character with some kanji under their names MUST go into battle.  Any
character with a heart next to their name has an After Battle scene.  You will
not get the After Battle scene if the character does not participate in battle.

A button: Select/deselect character to go into battle X button: Status of
selected character.  You cannot change equipment here. Y button: View map.
Press B to return to character selection Start button: Start battle

Battle

Usually, you will have control of the fastest unit.  Once it is time for one of
your units to go:

Move cursor over a unit: See that unit's stats summary L and R buttons: Scroll
through units in the order they go in (look at the top of the touch screen to
see the order) A button (within blue squares): Move character to selected
square A button (over another unit): Shows that unit's move range A button
(elsewhere): Nothing B button: Auto-lock onto your character.  Pressing B again
will open up a menu. I'll explain how to get out of this menu later. X button
(over a unit): See that unit's full statistics (press left and right on the
control pad to see said unit's equipment, Arts, and Flash Drives, if any)

I just pressed B over the unit that needs to move!  What's with this menu?

These options appear when one of your units has moved, or if you pressed B
twice on the map while it's your turn.  Choose the top option, then press A in
any blue square (ignore this if the top option is not available).  Then, press
B.  The options:

Move: Press A in any blue square to move the character to that spot Attack:
Press A in any reddish-yellow square to attack Arts: Perform an Art.  For
witches, this is the equivalent of "Magic". Item: Use an item that is equipped
to a character FD: Flash Drive.  You must have at least 100 DP to use this
option, and not everyone has one in the beginning. . .if you are Roland, you
get another option. . .Engage (explained in the next section) Wait: Finish that
character's actions.  Choose a facing via the control pad, then press A to
confirm, or B to cancel. Start Button: Massive sub-menu.  From left to right:

View turn order View mission objective Options Suspend

Use Suspend to save mid-battle, then choose the middle option on the main menu
to restart the game from the suspended data.

===========================
F. Other Useful Information
===========================

Equipping Items

Navigate to the Status screen (cannot be mid-battle).  Press A over a
character's portrait.  At the top of the touch screen are six options.  From
left to right:

Weapon (1)
Helmet (1)
Armor (1)
Items (2)
Lapis (3)
View All

To equip an item, press A over the appropriate slot.  If you have something
that can go into that slot, a list will appear to the right of the slot. Choose
whatever item you want, then press A to equip the item.  Note that healing
items and the like must be equipped if they are to be used in battle.

Shopping

After a greeting by the shopkeeper, you'll see a menu with four options.  From
top to bottom:

Buy
Sell
Equip
Leave

Items are categorized by type for Buy and Sell.  Equip is done by character. If
this section needs to be clarified further, do let me know!

Saving and Loading

Press the L button anywhere on the World Map to save, and the R button to Load.

Engage (spoilers)

After a point, Roland will have the option "Engage" in place of "FD" on the
battle menu.  At least one witch must be on the map in order for this option to
appear, and the witch must have a Unite Ring (the first couple of Engages
happen right after you get the appropriate witch).  Once chosen, Roland's
element will change to the appropriate one, one stat will be boosted, "Engage"
will be replaced by "FD" (and the FD changes depending on the witch), and a
nice picture will appear after Engaging.  You can only Engage a particular
element once per battle.  If the Engaged witch is defeated, Roland will lose
his power-ups.  Roland automatically loses the Engage status after five turns.

If a witch is defeated while Roland is powered-up, he cannot re-engage her,
even if she is revived.

Here's a list of elements and associated power-ups:

Fire: Attack Light: Technique Water: Resistance Earth: Defense Wind: Speed
Dark: Magic

=============
G. Characters
=============

If it is not painfully obvious, this section will contain some spoilers

Character format:

Name (Japanese name if it is drastically different)
Age
Quote from Japanese version (will be done later)
Role in Game
Stupid fact

Without further ado. . .

Name: Roland
Age: 17
Role in Game: The hero of the game.  Is turned into a Rune Knight by accident.
Stupid Fact: He's a good cook (but he's not the God of Cooking; that's someone
else)

Name: Althea
Age: 16
Role in Game: The heroine of the game, and the apprentice FIRE Witch
Stupid Fact: In one of the pre-release comics, she is revealed to be a bit
sensitive about her chest size (don't ask me to find it)

Name: Fatima
Age: 19
Role in Game: The Shadow Frost Witch, and the main villain
Stupid Fact: She goes from an E cup (Japanese) to a D cup (American)

Name: Josie (Georgie)
Age: ???
Role in Game: Fatima's minion, and comic relief
Stupid Fact: He hates being called a cat

Name: Rasche
Age: 19
Role in Game: The hero's hot-headed older brother
Stupid Fact: Has no respect for anyone - including his own father

Name: Rina
Age: 15
Role in Game: A friend of Roland.  Becomes fast friends with Althea because
they're both apprentices.
Stupid Fact: She can't cook.  At all.  Her baking is even worse.

Name: Steven (Stan)
Age: 44
Role in Game: Roland and Rasche's father
Stupid Fact: Anyone with the Japanese art book will notice something odd about
his entry. . .

Name: Steiner
Age: 21
Role in Game: Queen's Knight, and a rival to Roland
Stupid Fact: How does he sit with his swords like that?!

Name: Sophia
Age: 25
Role in Game: Queen of Carnava
Stupid fact: I need to verify something in the English version before I put it
down

Name: Gaston
Age: 42
Role in Game: One of the Queen's Knights
Stupid Fact: He goes around teaching gullible guards how to sing.

Name: Richter
Age: 27
Role in Game: One of the Queen's Knights
Stupid Fact: Is VERY popular with teenage girls (why?)

Name: Kaph (Cappa)
Age: 24
Role in Game: Gathers "information" on all the witches
Stupid Fact: Whenever he wins a battle, he goes behind a camera and starts
taking pictures.  What kind of medieval setting is this?!

Name: Dia
Age: 24
Role in Game: The Brilliant Witch, and the head of the Magic School of Rev.
Stupid Fact: She never refers to Roland by name; instead, she calls him, "Boy".

Name: Luna (Lunaluna)
Age: 23
Role in Game: The Tide Witch
Stupid Fact: Congratulations on your acquisition of a Luna (TM).  If your Luna
(TM) starts acting strange, a cup of Pure Water will make things right.

Name: Pop (Potpourri)
Age: 14
Role in Game: The Verdure Witch, and quite a brat
Stupid Fact: She likes crabs.  I was right about her name sounding like
Potpourri?!

Name: Sadie (Sati)
Age: ???
Role in Game: The Breeze Witch
Stupid Fact: She speaks like a boy (in Japanese), and she hates studying.

Name: Pip (Phillip)
Age: 12
Role in Game: Pop's younger brother, who goes off without her
Stupid Fact: He calls Roland "Master Roland"

Name: Karen
Age: 16
Role in Game: One of the villains, and leader of Rosette Rosso
Stupid Fact: Her team's theme is the coolest, hands down.

Name: Ace
Age: 22
Role in Game: One of Karen's henchmen
Stupid Fact: He's probably got the most sense out of the three.

Name: Moose (Donkey)
Age: 22
Role in Game: One of Karen's henchmen
Stupid Fact: It's like they took Nikolai out of the original game, and split
him into two. . .and Moose got the otaku side (Steiner got the cool-looking
glasses).

And now I present. . .MASSIVE spoilers (and people that should've been in the
art book)

Name: Mattias
Age: ??? (not in the Japanese art book)
Role in Game: Wants to open Conclusion Gate for his own purposes
Stupid Fact: Despite having all the markers for Evil Overlord, he treats his
underlings with utmost respect

Name: Ayano
Age: IT'S OVER 4,000!!!11!! (sorry, couldn't resist)
Role in Game: Althea's sister, and the Silver Moon Witch
Stupid Fact: She's older than the rest of the cast put together (not counting
Elicia and Balba)

Name: Alice
Age: ???
Role in Game: An apprentice witch.  Exploring the world with her sister.
Stupid Fact: All her spells are repeats from the first Luminous Arc

Name: Therese
Age: ???
Role in Game: An apprentice witch.  Exploring the world with her sister.
Stupid Fact: She is addicted to sweets

Name: Balba
Age: ???
Role in Game: King of the Howl Beasts, and a constant thorn in Roland's side
Stupid Fact: He has the opportunity to attack while everyone's busy at Istire's
ice cream shop, but he doesn't.

Name: Elicia
Age: see Ayano
Role in Game: The Black Mother (I need to play more. . .)
Stupid Fact: She refers to your party as, "those kids"

==============
H. Walkthrough
==============

NOTE: I refer to places in terms of the World Map.  For example, the Lower
Castle Courtyard is designated as 2-1.  From the World Map, go to the second
option, then go to the first option that appears after choosing the previous
option.

NOTE2: Unless otherwise specified, the "Losing" condition for a battle is,
"Your entire team is wiped off the map."

---------
Chapter 1
---------

Watch a LONG dialogue.  Watch some more dialogue.  Eventually, you'll see a
training ground with Steven, Rasche, and Roland.  After a few more lines,
Rasche will ask a question.  The top option starts a lengthy tutorial about the
battle system.  After the tutorial, you'll see two options.  The top option
will repeat the tutorial.  Once the bottom option is chosen, you'll challenge
Rasche to a fight.  Winning this fight is easy, so I won't go into strategy.
You'll get your first two Lapis after this fight.  What are Lapis?  There's a
whole section devoted to them. . .

(New Game+ note: It's not a glitch, it's a tutorial battle.  Relax)

After the fight, go through more dialogue.  The fireworks show will be
interrupted.  Shortly after that, the first battle begins.

-----------------------
Royal Laboratory


Objective: Defeat everything

You start with a basic sword guy, a spear guy (range 1-2, linear), Rina's bow
(range 3-4), and Althea (spell range 1-3, melee range 1).  Use Rina and Althea
to snipe, Rasche to soften things up, and Roland to finish.  Note that Steiner
is on your side.  He'll wipe out enemies on his own, so don't worry about him.
Just walk around and kill stuff.  That's all.
-----------------------

After the battle, watch the ensuing scenes.  It was an accident, darn it!!

Once the next (long) scenes are over, go back to the Lower Castle Courtyard
(2-1). Check the first option.  Keep this place in mind; this is your Guild
Hall, and you get quests here.

---------
Chapter 2
---------

Check for new quests. and complete them (run around the map until you find the
place where the quest is, then go there).  To continue, press B until you are
on the world map.  Go to 3-1 (a forest).  Now introducing. . .Rosette Rosso!!

-----------------------
Calkus Road

Objective: Defeat Karen

Your party is the same as the last battle, sans Steiner.  Karen will not move
until the majority of the units on the map are dead.  Beware, as she is
EXTREMELY fast (think Rina fast).  She's also strong enough to kill off your
weaker characters if their health isn't in tip-top shape.  I suggest killing
everything that's not Karen on the map, then rushing her with everyone.
-----------------------

Karen doesn't seem to take well to losing.  Oh, well.  Watch the infighting,
then press on.

---------
Chapter 3
---------

Another member of the cast makes her appearance!  You also get the option
"Engage" here.  But someone intrudes. . .

-----------------------
Magic School of Rev

Objective: Defeat Fatima

This is the first battle that has an After Break.  Look for the hearts next to
the characters to see the After Break choices.

No, you can't abuse Dia yet.  Slowly chew your way through the Golems, and have
Rina target the Blue Balls (that's what they're called. . .really) and the
Succubus (the angel-looking thing that will look familiar to those that played
the original Luminous Arc).  Fatima will mosey down the stairs after you get
rid of the majority of the units.  Rasche's first Art works wonders on her.

If all else fails, fire up Roland's Engage.  His Attack will go through the
roof.
-----------------------

Watch the scenes, then go through the After Break.  Ooh, that looks painful,
but we can't leave things like that, so. . .

---------
Chapter 4
---------

NOTE: I do not remember if it is now or after this chapter, but head back to
the Royal Laboratory (2-4), and read the conversation with Rina, then go to
Calkus Road.  This is the first sub-quest.

Notice how you're short someone?  Go shopping if you want, then move on to
Redhelm Mountain.

-----------------------
Redhelm Mountain

Objective: Defeat Balto (the thing that's not a lizardman)

Reinforcements show up when one of the Lizardman falls.  Make sure you're near
the center of the map, and you should be OK.  After the reinforcements die,
another Death Beetle will show up.  Though the objective is to defeat one unit,
make it a point to clear the map before beating Balto.  The experience won't
hurt.

If you're lucky, the units will align themselves within Rasche's range.  Make
sure to take advantage of that!
-----------------------

There's an After Break here, too.  Don't dally too much; someone's waiting for
you!

---------
Chapter 5
---------

Once the scenes are done, Althea will have her Flash Drive.  With that
distraction out of the way, it's time to do some hunting!

-----------------------
Asul Forest

Objective: Defeat all enemies

Pip can heal himself.  He's got enough HP to take the crab attacks, but if that
minotaur reaches him, he's toast.  Clear the room with Dia, then use Rina's
range to snipe at the crabs.  The goal is to kill the minotaur before it gets
to Pip.  Rasche can attack over the water, if he's close enough.
-----------------------

Bow down to the mighty beater!  You'll see why Pip was in that situation in the
first place.  I feel sorry for him.  You don't get Pop yet.

---------
Chapter 6
---------

Meet Richter.  Really.  After a conversation, you'll meet. . .Josie.

-----------------------
Hemiel Dimwater Ruins

Objective: Defeat Josie

Josie is a Dark creature, and Dark creatures do not like Light spells.  Keep
that in mind as you pummel the living daylights out of him with Dia.  Bring Pip
along to keep everyone's health up.  Rasche can hit across the water, assuming
there's something worth hitting.

The Golems are weak to Magic, and the Elementals are weak to physical attacks.

You can also use Roland's Engage (Dia) on Josie.
-----------------------

It seems that the person that we're looking for isn't here, but you did get a
lead to go to Istire.

---------
Chapter 7
---------

Is that a statue of Luna?!  Could it be. . .Althea and Dia?!  Say hi to Kaph,
the equivalent of the paparazzi of Luminous Arc 2.  If you decide to read some
of the other materials, you'll learn more about Italy--I mean, Istire (the
gondolas, the water, and the ice cream are the same).

You'll also learn that it is unwise to challenge Pip and Rina to an ice cream
eating contest.  You will lose.

(minor spoiler notes):

Istire is home to an ice cream shop with 128 flavors.  They stock things such
as Miracle Choco-Banana and Max Lemon Orange.  Pip seems to like the latter.

(end spoiler notes)

-----------------------
Istire Water City

Objective: Defeat Karen

Wow, what an unhappy starting position!  You have to be some kind of masochist
to leave Rina out of this battle.  Two hits will off either of the mages in the
center.  Beware the mechas; they have a 20 MP attack that HURTS.  They only get
to use it once, but if both of them unload on Roland, it won't be pretty! Once
half the map or so is gone, three more Archers appear around Karen.  They are
pathetically weak.  Karen will start moving shortly after the reinforcements
appear.  If you're lucky, she'll end up right next to Rasche. Pummel her with
PHYSICAL attacks.
-----------------------

"But. . .I powered them up!"  After more bickering, Rosette Rosso leaves.  Say
goodbye to the ice cream.  Shop around before leaving.

---------
Chapter 8
---------

This is a two-part chapter.  You get to use a different set of characters in
the second part (if you want), but you cannot re-equip.

-----------------------
Azul Caves, part 1

Objective: Defeat Fatima

The two knights near Fatima won't move unless you're close to them.  Bring a
physical tank to provoke the knights (Rasche, but only if you can boost his
Resistance), then use Dia to inflict a goodly amount of damage to Fatima.  Keep
Pip nearby to patch Dia up.  The Succubi don't put up much in the way of
fighting.  After this fight. . .

Azul Caves, part 2

Objective: Defeat Josie

The two golems near Josie won't move unless you're close to them.  Stick to the
north-western part of this map, harass the golems, then blast Josie with your
favorite Light Witch.  Use Luna's waterwalking abilities to your advantage.  If
done right, this battle goes by faster than the first part.
-----------------------

It seems that Josie got his way after all.  Stupid cat.

---------
Chapter 9
---------

Go back to the Magic School of Rev (4-1).  Watch the LONG conversation with
Steven, then save.  Someone we haven't seen in a while makes an entrance.  She
wants to WHAT?!

-----------------------
Magic School of Rev

Objective: Defeat Pop
Lose Condition: Roland falls

You're only allowed two other characters besides Roland.  Since I am cruel and
heartless, I had Pip in this battle.  I do NOT recommend the witches.  Their HP
is too low, and they must be in Pop's range before they can hit her with spells
(read: suicide).

Pop will start by giving herself a massive speed boost.  During that time,
target the Kopin.  See if you can kill them both before Pop's speed resets.
Keep Roland's health up at all costs.  Also, Pop will use her Flash Drive
whenever she's able.  It does 200+ damage, so be prepared to heal immediately.

Once Pop's speed is back to normal, hit her with everything you've got. Good
luck.
-----------------------

The teenage Witch is still not convinced, and runs off.  There's not much that
can be done to convince her otherwise, so go over to Granend. . .hey, wait,
what are we doing here so early in the game?!

----------
Chapter 10
----------

Gaston is here to greet you.  After many more scenes (and an epic golem-
kicking), you get to fight a recurring nuisance.

-----------------------
Granend Front

Objective: Defeat all units

Bring MP recovery items; you'll need it!

Once you pass the halfway point or so of this map, three Golem reinforcements
appear.  Golems and magic don't mix; use that to your advantage.

Josie can jump down from his position to yours, but won't do so until most of
the map is cleared.  When he does, make sure your strongest units are nearby to
send him to off-the-map land.
-----------------------

We haven't seen the last of this place, unfortunately. . .

----------
Chapter 11
----------

If I told you it was more of the same, would you kill me?  Yes?  Well, YOU get
to finish this FAQ on your own!

-----------------------
Granend

Objective: Defeat everyone

My, what a lovely starting position.  Go witch-happy on this map; golems fall
faster to magic than they do brute force.  After you clear out most of the
golems, 4 new units appear.  The two Unicorn Demons (purple) whack you with
spears (think Rasche, but less damage), and the two Devils (green) use Dark
magic.  Once you get rid of the Phantom, a green F-Golem appears.  Mow over
that unit, and the map will end.
-----------------------

Oops, did I say end?  After an impressive cut scene, another villain is
introduced.  Something important happens here.  I can't spoil it completely,
but. . .*cues Star Wars music*

-----------------------
Granend pt. 2

Objective: Defeat Mattias

You're facing two of the strongest enemies you've seen so far on the same map.
The third one is stronger than the previous two.  What's an alliance of witches
and soldiers gonna do?

Knock Josie out first, then Fatima.  Heal whenever you take damage.  If Mattias
decides to use his FD, his target will most likely die.  Save your FDs for
Mattias; doing 25% of his life with Althea on Intention is worth it!
-----------------------

After the battle, Mattias reveals that he was toying with you.  Roland gets
cocky, and. . .Rasche gets his FD.  Finally.

The story gets far more interesting from this point on.

----------
Chapter 12
----------

After the events in the previous chapter, push on to Farhom, and. . .what
happened to this town?!

-----------------------
Farhom Town

Objetive: Defeat all enemies

This battle is absolute cake compared the events at Granend.  The only thing to
worry about is the yellow reinforcement that appears.  Kamaitachi (its ranged
attack) does quite a bit of damage.  Otherwise, plow through everything as
usual.
-----------------------

Being a nice guy pays off; you can now shop in Farhom.  There's something that
the Queen needs to know, so head back to Carnava Castle Throne Room (1-1).

Before going on to the next chapter, check out the quests.  They will increase
in difficulty (some by a lot).

----------
Chapter 13
----------

Talk with the Queen, then watch as your country is invaded.  Oh, we're not
allowed to watch.

-----------------------
Gate Space, pt. 1

Objective: Guard must survive

Like the Farhom battle, there's not much to say about it.  Watch out for the
fishy-looking reinforcements; they have a LARGE area attack that deals ~100
damage (~150 to Althea).  Level up whoever you want; it's not that difficult.
-----------------------

Fatima shows up again.  You mean that previous attack WASN'T her doing?!  An
argument ensues, and Roland and his big mouth are stuck fighting. . .her.

-----------------------
Gate Space, pt. 2

Objective: Defeat Fatima and Josie

The good news is that you don't have to deal with Mattias.  The bad news is
that Fatima and Josie are a bit stronger.  Your only solace is that you finally
get Pop.

Josie likes to mess with your units' offensive power.  Object to that by
pummeling him with the strongest spells in your arsenal.  Punish any enemy unit
that gets in your way.  That stupid cat will eventually fall.

Once Josie leaves, use Fatima's lack of speed against her.  By now, she should
be the last unit on the map.  If she uses her FD on someone, have everyone rush
her.  She probably won't recover in time.
-----------------------

After the canned "you should've joined me" speech, Fatima and Josie leave.  A
new place in an old setting appears.

Pip is so ecstatic about his sister's appearance that he gets his FD.

----------
Chapter 14
----------

Steiner is mighty interested in Roland's Tool, so he drags everyone to the Arts
Center (3-2).  It's a beautiful place, complete with a restaurant, lapis, and
Rosette Rosso.

-----------------------
Arts Center

Objective: Kick Robot Butt

The robot won't move.  Ever.  Instead, it will hit you with a 3x3 missile
attack that does a decent amount of damage, a laser attack that hits all units
standing next to it, or its FD (which hurts).

Walk up to that robot and hit it until it breaks.  Bring someone to heal
injuries; even Rasche can't take that kind of a beating.
-----------------------

Karen and Rina talk (finally).  Karen makes Rina sad.  Steiner cheers her up by
allowing her to use her FD.  YAY!

Did anyone see that evil glint in Steiner's eye?  I hope this is not a sign of
things to come. . .

----------
Chapter 15
----------

Steiner asks you to go somewhere new, so. . .off we go!  Kaph finally decides
to get a FD (so he can see the witch's smiling faces).

-----------------------
Silress Ruins, pt. 1

Objective: Defeat Fatima and Josie

This is NOT funny.  Snipe at the golems, kill anything else that wanders into
your range (including an Devil with a bow that will appear after you create
enough carnage), and hope and pray Josie doesn't hit more than one unit with
his Attack and Magic down spell.

Once Josie is out of the picture, things get much easier.  Knock Fatima off of
the map to end things.

No thanks to a lot of bad moves, Kaph was forced to finish off Fatima and
Josie.  Alone.  His FD came in handy.
-----------------------

Once again, Our Heroes are too late.  WHY DO YOU DO THIS TO US, MMV?

-----------------------
Silress Ruins, pt. 2

Objective: Defeat Mattias

Any units KO'd in the previous map go into this map at half health.  Spread
out, and stay that way.

Think of this as a distant echo to the events at Granend.  This time, everyone
has their FDs.  Use Josie and Fatima to build DP, then dump it out on Mattias.
Serves you right, you magic-sword-wielding ninny!!!
-----------------------

Again, Mattias is poised to strike when. . .Althea saves the day. . .and then
winds up needing to be saved.  Was Althea dying her hair the entire time?

(this is a VERY long cutscene)

----------
Chapter 16
----------

Take a walk outside, and meet. . .someone that looks suspiciously like Althea's
sister.  Go back into the house, and you'll get your next assignment.  Let me
save already!

-----------------------
Blizzard Sanctuary

Objective: Defeat Sadie
Lose Condition: Roland falls

Sadie's bored, and this is her cure for boredom.  Normally, I don't set
parties, but THIS party has a purpose.  Bring Pop to deal MASSIVE damage
against Sadie, and Luna to jack Roland's Resistance up to something decent.
Have Roland run towards the other two witches.  Sadie will follow.  Pummel her
with Pop's spells, and use Luna to keep Roland's health up.  This battle is FAR
easier than the battle against Pop.
-----------------------

Sadie's finally happy.  You'll get Mother Lapis, and see something that could
only be done with Mother Lapis.

-----------------------
Inside of Mother

Objective: Defeat your shadow
Lose Condition: Roland falls

You will get to move first.  DO NOT MOVE.  Your shadow will walk up to you.
Move behind it and strike.  Your shadow will do the same.  Repeat until you
win.
-----------------------

Once you win that battle. . .ROLAND, WEAR A SHIRT UNDER THAT!!!  Don't worry,
Roland's facial expressions remain the same.  This scenario looks like
something out of another game. . .

----------
Chapter 17
----------

After this chapter, go to Magic School of Rev (4-1), and choose the new option,
then go to Istire Water City (but make sure Dia, Luna, and Sadie are over level
20, or you will be in for a lot of grief).

Somewhere around here (this chapter or the next), come back to this town for a
hilarious sub-quest involving Pip, Pop, and bad cooking (you'll need to go back
to Asul Forest for the second half of this sub-quest).

Welcome to Rickbate City.  Do some shopping before continuing the story.

-----------------------
Rickbate City

Objective: Defeat all enemies

Reinforcements in the form of more Howl Devils (those black flying things) show
up to the north, west, and east, respectively.  Keep killing stuff, and they'll
appear.

The Devils are dark creatures.  You should know what to do about dark
creatures.
-----------------------

Once that's over, you'll end up back at home.  Watch the scene between Roland
and Althea (so many roses!), then continue on.

----------
Chapter 18
----------

Enjoy the scenery!  Your vacation is interrupted by the Rest of the Cast With
Names.  Literally.

After watching an argument between Sophia and Mattias, be prepared for a
battle.

-----------------------
Sillbeek Beach

Objective: Defeat Fatima and Josie

The Golems regenerate (slowly).  Enemies are spread out, which means that it
will take them a while to get to you. . .except for that succubus.

Kill the succubus, and beat up the Golems with area spells (Flame Pillar, etc.)
Once the Golems fall, a Devil and Howl Devil will appear behind you.  They're
not that strong, so defeating them won't be too hard.

Let Josie float over, then pound him with whatever you feel like pounding him
with.  Fatima will follow; a few FDs will end the battle.
-----------------------

Are you a bad enough dude to protect the queen and her realm?  Do some
questing, if you feel like it, then continue.

----------
Chapter 19
----------

Hey, who broke my screen?!  The following scenes will hold varying levels of
satisfaction for you, dear reader (I didn't like it; I WANTED TO DO IT!)

Take a deep breath.  You're about to challenge THAT.

-----------------------
Conclusion Gate, pt. 1

Objective: Defeat Balba

If you have been doing quests, the monster levels shouldn't be too far off of
yours.

Remember those headache battles with Mattias, Fatima, and Josie?  You should
have no headaches of that sort with this battle.

No reinforcements show up, and Balba stays put until the lesser Howl Demons are
dead.  His only ranged attack is Dark Breath, which does very little damage.
His FD hits hard, but only hits one person.  That being said, if you can hit
and run, you'll win with ease.
-----------------------

Did Mattias just. . .help Althea?!  At least Balba is perfectly clear on what
he wants.  Too bad he ran off. . .

-----------------------
Conclusion Gate, pt. 2

Objective: Defeat all enemies

This doesn't look as bad, but. . .

After a few of the Crabs go down, a F-Death Beetle will appear near your
starting position.  After a few of the Goblins go down, four Crabs will appear
throughout the map.

Keep killing stuff.  How you do it is not important.
-----------------------

Watch another LONG cut scene.  I won't comment on this.  Go back to Carnava.

----------
Chapter 20
----------

The guards won't let you in.  Meanwhile, it seems that all is not well in
Pearlpark City.  Go there and shop.  The new equipment is nice.

Once you're done re-equipping, take a look around.  It's like Farhom the
Second, and Rosette Rosso. . .is helping the citizens of Pearlpark.  Instead,
you get a Howl Beast battle.

-----------------------
Pearlpark City

Objective: Defeat all enemies

Fire, fire everywhere!  If you are the risky type, bring Luna.  You'll do more
damage, at the expense of taking more.

Take out the snakes first.  Those three-headed doggies are slower than the
Flame-Pillar-casting-pieces-of-snakeskin.  It's not a hard battle, but it can
be frustrating.
-----------------------

Seems like Rosette Rosso isn't evil.  Ace seems to be the closest thing to the
voice of reason in that group.  After a rather long conversation, the trio run
off.  Your next destination is Istire.

----------
Chapter 21
----------

The world is at stake, and all Pop, Pip, and Rina can think of is ice cream.
Crab Choco-Berry Mint ice cream, to be exact.  The world is doomed.

I promised I wouldn't post spoilers but. . .the favorite ice cream of the
various characters:

Pip: It's ice cream!  Who cares about flavor?
Rina: Seems to like the Egg Mix
Pop: Crab Cream Rocket
Dia: Sweet Love-style Milk Sadie: Red Hot Chili Chili Tabasco (and is
interested in the Tri-Colored Pepper Rainbow)
Rasche: Doesn't like ice cream
Althea: Has other things on her mind
Luna: Prefers drinking water
Kaph: Is more interested in writing a story about the ice cream

This ice cream shop puts most ice cream shops to shame - they have 256 flavors!

As Roland put it: "Um, about Balba. . ."

Balba is kind enough to wait while everyone has ice cream.

During the cut scene, Roland and Fatima talk.  I'll explain what my theory on
this conversation is later.

After Fatima and Josie eat it (again), the fights starts.

-----------------------
Istire Water City

Objective: Defeat Balba

Not much to say here.  Reinforcements in the form of three Howl Demons show up
at the corners (except for the one you started next to).

Otherwise, do whatever you did the last time, and send Balba packing.  For a
boss, he's kinda easy. . .
-----------------------

I only have one thing to say about the next scene: "Steiner, you tool. . ."

----------
Chapter 22
----------

You can't go shopping.  Cue the next scene (3-4) to see why.

"Hey. . .did you hear that?"

It's Rosette Rosso to the rescue!  Watch the long scene, and do the last
dialogue of the optional dialogues (the option WITHOUT the red flag).

(I promised I wouldn't spoil anything, so if you are being a stubbon purist,
please skip the next line)

YOU GET JOSIE AND KAREN FOR THIS BATTLE.  HELL YES!!

(okay, start reading again)

-----------------------
Mogus Prison

Objective: Haul ass to the exit

What kind of idiot jailed Roland and co. with their weapons?

Wow, this spread looks easy.  The soldiers will be kind enough to rush you in
small, manageable groups.

The knights have a bit more defense than most, but fall quickly to magic.
Everything else has the defense of a cream puff.  Mow anything that gets
between you and the exit, and you'll be fine.
-----------------------

. .and there we go!  Well, sort of.

The question here will determine which Chapter 23 you get.  The first option
leads to Execution Base; the second one goes to Gate Space.

----------
Chapter 23
----------

Roland, this is a BAD time to have a cute converastion with Althea.

You'll eventually Get Out of Jail by rolling doubles (sorry), then go to
whereever you're supposed to.  Do whichever map you got.  Have fun.

-----------------------
Execution Base

Objective: Defeat Gaston

Whee, I hate enemy archers.

Gaston is a tank.  He can take many, many hits, and laugh all the while. You'll
need to unload FDs on him if you want to make a serious dent.  Oh, and be
careful of his attack range; he hits the square in front of him, and the two
squares to the left and right of the square he originally targets.

Kill off the other enemies to build DP, then go FD crazy on Gaston.  He'll
fall, I promise.
-----------------------

-----------------------
Gate Space

Objective: Defeat Richter

Don't let the magic users get more than one hit off.

Richter is surprisingly easy to beat.  It's the goons around him that make this
map harder than it should be.

Watch out for reinforcements from behind (two magic guys and one soldier
grunt).

I can't think of anything else to type here.
-----------------------

Regardless of which mission you take, you'll shut Josie up.

(remember that conversation in Istire?  I think this affects your new recruit's
heart level)

----------
Chapter 24
----------

Whilst walking along Calkus Road, Roland's group happened upon Steiner's group.
The result: Roland picks up a ninja, and Steiner makes his sister mad.  The
latter is asking to get his rear handed to him.  I'll be more than happy to
oblige (Rina is one of my favorite units).

-----------------------
Calkus Road

Objective: Defeat Steiner

Great, it's a bunch of mage rejects that want revenge for being called nerds.
The mysterious warrior joins your party.  If you're as heartless as I am, bring
Rina along.

Your job is to plow through this group in order to get to the green dude all
the way in back.  A couple of reinforcements show up after a bit; handle them
like you handle the rest of the map.  Two or three strong hits is usually
enough to get rid of an enemy unit.

Steiner's defenses are horrid.  I had Rina finish him off for great justice.
-----------------------

Have you figured out who that mysterious warrior is?  No?  Shame on you.

----------
Chapter 25
----------

SPOILER ALERT!

If you want to see what Hugo and Cecille look like, head to Hemiel Dimwater
Ruins.  NOW!  To continue the "quest", go to Bullhelm Volcano, and go to the
new option.  Bring lots of curative items!

END SPOILER!

NOTE: The shop that popped up in the same place as the guild may glitch your
game.  If you notice that icons are appearing in weird places, save and turn
off the game!  Otherwise, it may freeze.

You can go on quests again!  Some of these quests yield more than Lapis; check
your inventory often!

Go shopping if you dare, level up if you feel like it, then head to the castle.
Things are going to get interesting.

-----------------------
Passage of Palace, pt. 1

Objective: Defeat all enemies

Four Goblin reinforcements show up at the bottom of the courtyard after a few
turns.

Snipe the Goblins, and anything else down in that lower courtyard.  Let the
monsters on the upper end of the screen come near you, then pound them. Despite
the cruddy starting position, this battle is not too hard.
-----------------------

Three familiar people show up after you clear out the monster invasion. They're
not here to thank you for your wonderful work (ungrateful ingrates).

-----------------------
Passage of Palace, pt. 2

Objective: Defeat all enemies

Yep, it's THOSE three.  If you feel especially cruel, bring Rina.

Ignore Richter.  He'll walk down to you when he's good and ready (and if you do
things right, he'll be the only thing standing by the time he gets to your
units).

Gaston's normal attack hits wide (think Roland's fourth art).  He hits VERY
hard.  He'll go down to a strong enough physical attack, or any half-decent
magic attack.

Steiner's defenses have not improved one bit.  Have Roland hound him off the
screen (you can have Rina poke at him; it's quite effective, but extremely
mean).

Eliminate Steiner, then Gaston.  Richter will walk into his own demise.
-----------------------

We're NOT here to murder them!  Before you run off, check the guild hall for
some spoilers (I won't say what it is, but if you've been paying close
attention. . .)

----------
Chapter 26
----------

After this mission, head to Calkus Road, then Pearlpark.  You'll get to hear
the Rosette Rosso theme again!

It was a lot of effort to get to the queen, but you've finally reached her.
Roland starts yammering away, and is rudely interrupted by everyone's favorite
mad scientist and bull.  Sophia is NOT going to be happy with the mess we're
about to create.

-----------------------
Eternal Rose Garden

Objective: Defeat Balba

The cerebus are slow, as usual.  The red Howl Demons STILL don't have a ranged
attack (but they hit really hard).  A lone Death Beetle reinforcement will
appear near the round platform.  It has movement 6 and a ton of HP, so be
careful!

Balba himself hits hard physically and sports a draining move, but his Dark
Breath is an absolute joke.  He goes down faster to magic attacks, but a good
knock upside the head will do the trick, too.
-----------------------

The plot isn't going to get any simpler, is it?  Sorry Althea!

----------
Chapter 27
----------

Watch the first scene.  Long, isnt' it?

SPOILER ALERT AGAIN!

Get your butt back to the guild, pronto.  Look for a level 3 mission involving
apprentices (consult Althea's job entry in the game manual to see what the word
"apprentice" looks like).  Take it!  If you've played the first Luminous Arc,
you'll know who these two are. . .

END SPOILERS

When you're ready, go back to that gate.  Y'know, the one that you'll come to
hate. . .

-----------------------
Conclusion Gate

Objective: Defeat Balba

An F-Howl Fish will show up as a reinforcement from the bottom of the map.  Its
defenses are laughable, but its magic is high.  You have been warned.

Run around and kill everything that you can't control.  Balba will walk down on
his own accord (shortly after the demons around him start moving).

Balba will spam his breath attack when he can, and use his FD when he thinks he
can get away with it.  Sacrifice one unit to the worthy cause of draining his
FD meter, then go beserk on him.  He should die within two turns, if you
concentrate everything on him (a unit who will remain nameless dealt 700+
damage to him with a level 1 FD).
-----------------------

A familiar face will pop up.  STOP MAKING RINA CRY!  Now I'm starting to cry,
dammit.

This final break is special; you get to watch three scenes, and you don't have
to answer questions.  Remember those Breaks you've been doing?  The three
characters with the most heart meter get their final breaks.  Try not to cry
during Rina's break.

----------
Chapter 28
----------
</pre><pre id="faqspan-2">
Watch a LONG conversation.  I'm not going to have time to level everyone up!

The shop in the guild will sell new stuff.  Shop whilst you can!

Someone went missing.  Let's find out where that person went.

(NOTE: You may get a different version of this.  I have not gotten it yet, but
when I do, I'll post it)

-----------------------
Sealed Place

Objective: Defeat Fatima and Josie

Again?!  If I have to fight this duo ONE MORE TIME, I will inflict massive
damage on the next non-important story unit I come across!

This starting position reminds me of one of my least favorite maps out of the
first Luminous Arc.  At least I don't have the stupid condition of, "keep Lucia
alive".

Two Succubi and a Knight will spawn near the lower-left corner of the map.
Ignore them.

Josie will start moving almost immediately.  He'll be kind enough to meet you
in the middle.  Make him regret that decision.  Three well-placed hits should
be enough to kill him.

Meanwhile, mow down everything between you and Fatima.

Fatima should get off one spell before she meets her doom.  I hope you brought
Dia (if only for her Engage).
-----------------------

Althea attempts something stupid.  The result is so nauseatingly sweet that I
gagged.  Even Fatima looked a bit green. . .

If you don't know why I gagged, be thankful that you can't read Japanese.

----------
Chapter 29
----------

"Where the hell am I?"

So starts your journey into a new part of the map.

After watching the first scene, go back to Totrie Desert, then Silress Ruins.
Josie is testing you, and it is advised to stock a couple of health restoration
items.  Serious Josie is serious.

Once you're done questing, look around to see a familar menace.

-----------------------
Dead Space, pt. 1

Objective: Defeat Balba

Well, well, isn't it a bit crowded?  Let Balba come to you (he will, once you
kill off enough random enemies).  Sometime in the middle of the chaos, a bunch
of Howl Demons barge in.  Ignore them, if possible.  You want to kill Balba,
not waste MP on them.

You'll probably have to sacrifice someone to Balba's FD.

I don't remember much else, except that it was rough.
-----------------------

Remember that Enigma, WAY back in Chapter 8?  It's important again!

-----------------------
Dead Space, pt. 2

Objective: Defeat Balba

What kind of joke is this?!

Howl Demon reinforcements appear not long after the battle begins, followed by
a bunch of those snake things.  Rush Balba with EVERYONE, and ignore anything
that's not him.

Ranged attackers are VERY helpful in this battle.
-----------------------

That was not funny.  Move on; we're almost home free!

----------
Chapter 30
----------

Do the final couple of quests (especially the one offering a lot of money as a
reward).

Watch a scene.  The top option will continue the story; the bottom one will
allow you to finish things up on the map.  This is The Point of No Return.

Once you are good and ready, step into the new world, and watch the scenes.  I
guess you start looking really sexy after the first millennia passes, eh?  I'll
try to remember that if I decide to live for 4,000 years.

-----------------------
The Sanctuary, pt. 1

Objective: Defeat Elicia

The enemies don't look that bad.  Two waves of reinforcements show up; if you
have been doing quests, they are not worth mentioning.

Eventually, Elicia herself will start to mosey down.  Her stats seem scary, but
her 10 MP spell does surprisingly little damage.  It doesn't take much to
eliminate her (really; the final battle with Balba was far more chaotic than
this).
-----------------------

Elicia doesn't like violence.  She proves it by trashing her sanctuary.

Did that battle seem like the end?  No?  Well, you're right.

-----------------------
The Sanctuary, pt. 2

Objective: Defeat Elicia

Elicia has transformed into some sort of plant-thingy.  She can't move, but
I'll explain what her attacks do.

No - a (that's how it's written) is the 99 MP attack.  See those triangles on
the floor near her?  That's the width of that attack.  It's about six squares
long (I didn't bother to count).  It hurts, but you'll most likely survive if
you're at full health.

Her 1 MP attack completely refills her MP.  How lame. . .

She also has her 20 MP Thunder attack, and that may kill off your lower-resist
characters.  This attack is the typical area of attack-type of attack, but its
reach is fairly insane (think No - a range).

Her FD is Apocalypse.  It has the same area as her Thunder attack.  Don't count
on surviving this unless you HP is well over 1200.

In a nutshell, spread out, and poke where you can.  A ranged attacker (Kaph or
Rina) is extremely good during this battle.  If you still can't figure out how
to win, I put my character-specific strategy below.

Ayano's job was to stay alive long enough to boost everyon'e resistance.  She
got bonus points for being able to walk up to the boss and use a FD.  Pip's job
was to give everyone regeneration, as well as patch up who he could. Rina's job
was to stand just outside of No - a's range (from the lower-left corner of
Elicia, go two to the left and two down; that's where Rina was parked), hit
normally, and use her FD when able.  Roland's job was to survive long enough to
attack Elicia.  Therese's job was to inflict as much damage as possible on
Elicia (her FD dealt impressive damage).  Althea's job was to resurrect fallen
people.  It took a LONG time, but I eventually won when I had Therese whack her
(after Althea unloaded her FD on the boss).
-----------------------

Is this the end?  Really?  Yes, it is!  Congratulations!!  Watch the credits
and ending (they occur simultaneously).

Once you are ready, prepare for New Game+. . .

==============
I. After Break
==============

After a story line battle, certain characters get After Breaks.  Look for the
heart next to their portrait!

The breaks require Roland to answer a question.  If he answers the first one
"correctly", he'll get a second question.  Depending on your answer, you'll get
a judgment.  Here's the judgments:

Best Break - Red, fills the most meter Good Break - Yellow Normal Break - Blue
(you answered the first question "wrong")

This After Break is a work in progress.  If a choice appears with question
marks, then I got the Normal or Good Break, and I can only theorize as to which
choice would get the Best Break.

Notation:

4: 2, 1

That means for Chapter 4, take the second choice, then the first for best
results.

I don't remember the subject for every break, but I'll try to comment on those
that I do remember.

Rasche
------
3: 2, ?
8: 1, 2
12: 1, ?

Rina
----
3: 2, 1
4: 2, 1 (Roland sacrifices himself for the Best Break)
6: 1, 2
10: 1, 2
14: 2, 2
17: 1, ? (No, Rina, STOP!  You'll poison him!)
20: 1, 1
25: 1, ?

Althea
------
5: 1, 2
7: 2, 1 (?)
12: 2, ? (got the Normal Break)
19: 1, 1
23: 1, ?

Dia
---
5: 2, 2 (Dia is testing you; these are the correct quiz answers)
7: 2, 2 (Roland just admitted to being a Dia fan. . .)
10: 2, ?
13: 1, 2

Pip
---
6: 1, 1 (Pip really needs a good male role model. . .)
9: 1, 1 (?)
11: 2, 1 (the last choice to the second question is "Please dance for me")
15: 2, 2 (please, Pip, do NOT become a pervert like Kaph when you grow up!)

Luna
----
9: 2, 2 (Flowers!  Pretty flowers!!)
11: 1, 2 (Zzz. . .)
15: 2, 1 (2, 2 leads to Roland being called a pervert)

Kaph
----
8: 1, 1 (?) (he IS the pervert, but why does he drag Roland into it?)
13: 2, ? (I decided to be funny and have Kaph comment on Fatima's body.  This
leads to a Normal Break)
24: 2, ? (I'm not doing so well, am I?)

Pop
---
14: 1, ? (personally, I don't like crab meat)
18: 2, ?

Sadie
-----
17: 1, ? (she wants you to WHAT?!)

Josie
-----
22: 1, ? (call this revenge for 20 chapters of grief)

Fatima
------
26: 2, ? (she liked Roland's assertiveness the first time. . .)

=========
J. Quests
=========

You get quests not long after you start the game.  To check your quests, go to
the Lower Castle Courtyard (2-1), then choose the first option.  A maid will
give you your quests.

When I list a chapter number, that means the quest is available after the FIRST
conversation in the chapter (the dialogue immediately after the chapter number
and name flashes) until the first conversation of the last chapter.  Some
quests are around for more than one chapter.  I'll make a note of those.

Quests are repeatable.  As long as it's on your quest list, you can take it!

You can only "take" one quest at a time.  If you change your mind, go back to
the guild, and press A on the option that appears with a taken quest (the one
with the red symbol in its square).

Here's the general format:

Chapter number
--------------
- Location
- Objective
- Reward
- Availability notes, if necessary

Notes

etc.

So, without further ado. . .the quests!

Chapter 2
---------
- Royal Laboratory
- Defeat all enemies
- Mentalin (restores 20 MP)

You are facing four Lizardmen.  The highest leveled ones are level 2.  This
mission is a gentle introduction to what you'll face later.  I don't think I
need to say any more about this. . .

Chapter 3
---------
- Royal Knight School
- Defeat all enemies
- Apprentice helmet (Reg + 17, Tec + 5)
- Available during Chapter 4

This quest introduces the human units.  The robed ones cast Aqua Hammer (at
these levels, it won't be too devastating. . .)  The guys with swords walk up
to you and hit you.  The enemies are levels 3-5 (most being level 4).  Go after
the mages first, and eliminate anyone that gets in your way.

Chapter 4
---------
- Calkus Road
- Protect Aster (the dude in the red robe)
- 1000 Rico

After killing enough of the original 3 Goblins, two more will show up kinda
close to Aster.  Make a beeline towards Aster, and kill anything that
approaches you.  One of the goblins heads straight towards him, and that's bad.
Aster can't take too many hits. . .

Chapter 5
---------
- Gate Space
- Weaken Dion (Death Beetle on the other end of the map)
- DP + 5 (lapis)

You've got quite a few level 5 monsters between you and a level 10 Death
Beetle.  The Basilisk (the thing with the rooster head) can poison when they
hit.  Once most of the original monsters go down, another Basilisk and a Howl
Snake with Wood Whip appear near Dion.  Take care of those, then go after the
Death Beelte.  Hit it until you win.

- Redhelm Mountain
- Defeat 6 Blue Balls
- Refresh All (recover all HP and MP)
- Available during Chapter 6

To heck with the quest objective; kill the Succubi if you can!  They're decent
experience!  The Balls are quick, but they go down easily.  Do one ball at a
time, and this quest will be over before you know it.  I recommend doing this
quest multiple times; the Refresh All is an awesome item!

Chapter 6
---------
- Asul Forest
- Defeat all enemies
- 1500 Rico
- Available during Chapter 7

EEK, A GHOST!  Just kidding, you're up against two Knights and two Succubi. Two
more Succubi will appear after you off two of the original units.  The enemies
are level 5 to 7.  Walk around and kill stuff.  This mission is quite easy.

Chapter 7
---------
- Calkus Road
- Reach the exit
- Tec + 15 (lapis)
- Available during Chapter 8

Bandits and archers make up this map.  Everyone will (eventually) rush you as
you make your way to the exit.  You know what to do.  After wreaking enough
destruction, two more archers will appear near the exit.  All enemies are level
8 to 9.

Chapter 8
---------
- Onzark Plain
- Defeat all enemies
- Refresh All (restores all HP and MP)
- Available during Chapter 9

The monsters are level 7 to 8.  There's only three at the start, but three
minotaur reinforcements show up when you're down to the last monster (one of
the reinforcements is level 10).  Keep out of range of the minotaur, and you'll
be fine.

- Hemiel Dimwater Ruins
- Defeat Digori (the level 12 Howl Flag in back)
- Conch Crystal (lapis; water damage +5%)
- Available during Chapter 9

You're facing level 8 and 9 (and one boss) monsters.  The crabs are fast; the
fish take a couple hits before going down.  Walk along the bottom, then right
edge of the screen.  If you're lucky, the enemies won't notice you until you're
on top of them.  Digori can cast Aqua Hammer; be careful.

Chapter 9
---------
- Rockoh Source
- Defeat all enemies
- 2000 Rico
- Available during Chapter 10

The enemies are level 9 to 11.  The knights have very little move, but hit
hard.  The fire elementals are weak to physical attacks, assuming you can get
close enough to them.  You've already dealth with the Succubi.

Chapter 10
----------
- Istire Water City
- Reach the exit
- Silk Robe (Def + 26, Reg + 10)
- Available during Chapter 11

My, that's a lot of soldiers.  Two reinforcements (more soldiers) will appear
after you killed a couple of enemies.  Too bad you're stuck with four people.
Choose wisely, then stroll through the sword guys, and kill everything that
hits back.

New Game+ note: Level Josie or Sadie on this mission.

Chapter 11
----------
- Azul Cave
- Weaken Leksaner (the darker knight in back)
- Chain Mail (Def + 30)
- Available during Chapter 12

It's nothing but knights!  Leksaner is the level 16 unit with 3 move; the
lesser knight minions are level 11-12 with 2 move.  Knights fall faster to
witches than they do physical units (just look at their stats).

- Granend Front
- Defeat all enemies
- Crimson Crystal (lapis; fire attacks +10%)
- Available during Chapter 12 and 13

FIRE!  Do NOT bring Althea on this level; she will do next to no damage (even
with Intetion).  To make this mission easier (maybe), bring only 3 units.
Target the balls first, but kill any elementals that get in the way.  You'll
eventually end up with two lost elementals struggling to climb up; kill them as
they ascend.

New Game+ note: Level the unit with a water spell not named Luna

- Onzark Plain
- Weaken Mos (the blue Lizardman)
- Jump Shoes (lapis; Jump + 1)

Your job is to weaken the blue Lizardman (i.e. make it kneel).  It's far faster
than anything else on the map (and the regular Lizardmen and Minotaurs are no
joke), so now is NOT the time to level up Luna.  Snipe at the F-Lizardman until
it goes down on one knee.  This will end the quest.

(irony note: As a bonus prize, I got the Wing Shoes)

Chapter 12
----------
- Redhelm Mountain
- Defeat all enemies
- Treasure 20 (lapis; 20% more Rico received)
- Available during Chapter 13 and 14

If Roland goes down, you fail this mission.  It's the return of the Death
Beetles, and they're level 17 to 18.  They can take many hits before going
down, so choose your other characters wisely.  Be thankful there's only four of
them.

- Gate Space
- Stand next to Aster (the guy in armor)
- Healing Aura (lapis; regain 5% HP every turn)

Do NOT kill the guard next to the gate.  You need to have a unit stand next to
him to end this quest.  The two Monks closest to you are fairly easy to take
out.  They tend to critical when they hit, so don't leave a low HP unit near
them.  Take out the lone healer (easy enough with Rina or Kaph), the next two
Monks (whatever worked the first time), then. . .run.  The F Master Monk (the
scary Monk with insane Defense) is EXTREMELY fast, and kills a lot of things in
one hit.  Either bring him with Magic, or spread your units out and run towards
the guard.  I did the former, and ended the level with Dia (and only Dia)
walking up to the guard.

Chapter 13
----------
- Asul Forest
- Defeat all enemies
- Iron Helm (Reg + 40)
- Available during Chapter 14 and 15

The units are at a more realistic level (15-17, IIRC).  You'll have to deal
with a fair amount of ranged attackers.  Get rid of the magician first, and
anything between you and him.  This is cake compared to the stuff you had last
chapter.

- Azul Cave
- Reach the exit
- ???
- Once Only (can only be done once per save file; will not appear on New Game+
if it is finished during the regular game)

It's only a bunch of knights and. . .WHAT?!  The red Phantom has 6 move, 1800
HP, and too much AC for my comfort.  The Knights can take a beating.  Eliminate
the knights using any means possible, then unload FDs on that Phantom!  Even if
the job is a straight dash to the exit, it will help immensely if you can clear
the map before leaving.  Do not rush the enemy; instead, let them come to you.

Chapter 14
----------
- Onzark Plain
- Protect Aster (again)
- Auto Medical (lapis; I think this prevents all status effects)
- Available during Chapter 15
and 16

Aster, you suck.  Bring your faster units for this mission.  There's a LOT of
ranged attackers (3 Succubi and a Demon with Dark Pierce).  Ignore the golems,
unless they are VERY close to your client.

- Istire Water City
- Defeat Steven (the bandit with loads of HP)
- ???
- Once Only (can only be done once per save file; will not appear on New Game+
if it is finished during the regular game)

You only have to kill one unit. . .but it's the bandit with 900 HP.  Said
bandit has a ranged attack that deals MASSIVE damage (think Shine Ballet on
steroids).  To top it off, he's quite fast.  Meanwhile, you've gotta deal with
four other ranged attackers and two MORE bandits.  If you insist on bringing
Witches (sans Dia; she won't be available for this quest), let them snipe at
the slightly-less scary bandits while hiding behind a couple of units with
decent Defense (to build DP).  Once the target bandit comes within range, have
everyone unleash their FDs on him.

Chapter 15
----------
(quest a.k.a. Farhom Bomb Squad)
- Farhom Town
- Defeat all enemies
- Crimson Crystal x2 (lapis; +10% fire damage)
- Available during Chapter 16

This mission takes place in Farhom, but it reminds me of a certain Tavern
Request out of FFTA.  You'd expect something scary after reading the previous
quest descriptions. . .but this is extremely tame for a level 3 mission.  The
Red Balls (don't ask) have invaded, and it's your job to take them out.  The
trick is to attack ONE Ball at a time, and kill it before it can self-destruct
all over someone.  After a few of those balls die, reinforcement balls show up
at the bottom of the map.  Let them come to you before sending them packing.
Kill a few more, and three more balls appear at the top. . .but one of them is
green!  Deal with those the same way you dealt with the previous balls, and the
map will be over.  Luna is quite effective against most of the enemies.

- Bullhelm Volcano
- Reach the exit
- ???
- Once Only (can only be done once per save file; will not appear on New Game+
if it is finished during the regular game)

OMG PLOT HOLE (if accessed after Chapter 15 is over)!!!  The magician you meet
will ramble on about a Beast Equalizer (NOT a Beast E. Colizer. . .that would
be nasty), and it's your job to clean up the mess when his doohicky doesn't
work as expected.  First, study the map.  There's certain spots where you or
the monsters can jump over the magma streams.  If you can park a unit on one
side of those spots, the enemy can't jump over.  If you put a ranged unit on
said spot, the monsters will just. . .stay there.  If you wanted to level Kaph,
this is the level to do so (if you can park him on one of those spots). Once
the map is mostly clear, head for the exit.  The Death Beetles won't move too
much (and they don't hit THAT hard).  Kill the one on the right side, then walk
to the exit.

Chapter 16
----------
- Totrie Desert
- Defeat all enemies
- Drive Soda x3 (fills DP)
- Available during Chapter 17

Monsters aplenty!  They're from level 17 to 20.  After the previous chapter,
this one should be cake.  I don't feel like noting down anything else about
this boring quest, except for the two level 21 Basilisk that randomly show up.

- Calkus Road
- Defeat all enemies
- ???
- Once Only (can only be done once per save file; will not appear on New Game+
if it is finished during the regular game)

Black Succubus?  The Succubi (besides the black one) heal whatever enemy's
health is too low.  You can either aim to kill units before that happens, or
intentionally leave enemies at low health so you don't have to worry about the
Succubi attacking.  It's not as hard as it looks.

Chapter 17
----------
- Gate Space
- Defeat all enemies
- Attack + 10 (lapis)

I feel like a janitor.  Clean up the trash around the gate.  I have nothing
else to say.

- Royal Training Grounds
- Defeat all enemies
- Armor Coat (Def + 57, MP + 12, Spd + 5)
- Available during Chapter 18

Unlike the rabble in the previous quest, these guys will put up a fight.  The
monks are fast, as usual, and the archers are annoying.  However, the monks do
align themselves nicely (whether you want to hit them with Rasche or a well-
placed Flame Pillar is up to you. . .)

Chapter 18
----------
- Hemiel Dimwater Ruins
- Defeat all enemies
- 3000 Rico

This doesn't look like a hard battl--OMG, CRABS! Five crabs will appear around
the eastern and southern parts of the map after a few of the original enemies
fall.  They are darned fast, high-leveled, and hit VERY hard.  Althea's Flame
Pillar does 300+ damage to them.  Rina works on this map; the Crabs have low
movement, so she can hit and run.

- Gate Space
- Defeat Aster (knight) or Arsha (priest)
- Sage Clothes (Def + 67, HP + 10)

What a horrible starting position!  Killing either the priest (the one with the
mace) or the armored knight will end this battle. Choose one, then rush that
direction.

- Redhelm Mountain
- Defeat that HUGE cerebus
- ???
- Once Only (can only be done once per save file; will not appear on New Game+
if it is finished during the regular game)

Ow, ow, OW!!  Your job is to take out the three-headed dog sitting on the
upper-left corner.  It will move after a few of the lesser units are killed.
The unit on the lower-left corner is the same as that irritating reinforcement
from Chapter 13, and Kamaitachi STILL hurts.  Let the Cerebus come near you,
then hit it with everything you've got.  The Basilisks (upper-right corner) can
paralyze every time they hit.

I need to fix the formatting on this part.  I'll do this on a later update.

Chapter 24 (Rockoh Source) - Earth mages.  Must die.  Your mission is to kill
the archers (preferably before they move), make the mages sorry they used
Intention, and pick off the knights before they reach you.  Easy?  Only if
Sadie sits this round out.

Chapter 24 (Totrie Desert) - Bring Josie if you like being funny (it relates to
the scene before this mission).  This battle is so easy I don't feel like
typing out a strategy for it.

Chapter 24 (Pearlpark City) - It's only Minoppi, so this should be easy, right?
NOT A CHANCE.  The Minoppi in this mission are fast, and have had their attack
boosted to insane levels.  If that isn't bad enough, several more Minoppi join
the madness midway through the battle!  Pick off the Minoppi one by one.  Pip
makes a better healer than Luna during this battle (unless you forgot to level
him up).  He's got enough speed so he can heal and RUN! Plus, he can take a
couple of hits before he goes down.

Chapter 25 (Totrie Desert) - Have your units stand on the edge of the uppermost
level, and shoot/slash anything that dares climb up.  That's all the strategy
that's needed.

Chapter 25 (Blizzard Sanctuary) - If you feel reckless, DON'T bring Witches.
You're up against an army of elementals, and they all hit hard.  They go down
quickly to physical attacks (if your units survive long enough to reach them).
A lone Wind elemental will appear near the upper-right corner of the map after
most of the other elementals are dead.  Again, pick off the elementals one by
one.  This battle is hard, but doable.

Chapter 25 (Rockoh Source) - ENOUGH WITH THE RANDOM MAGICIANS!  The two mages
in black are armed with a VERY long-range version of Fatima's Gravity Ice (her
second spell).  The other units pose some threat, but are not too hard to
defeat.  The magicians can't take too many hits - but you have to reach them
before they'll die!

Chapter 27 (Blizzard Sanctuary) - What is this?  You're only allowed four
units?!  The monsters are pretty strong, and the two guest units will most
likely eat it.  Kill the snake ASAP, and beware of reinforcements from the left
side of the map.  Bring your faster (higher AO) units; you'll need it.  After
this mission is over, your party will change for good!

Chapter 27 (Asul Forest) - It's only a bunch of random human units.  That being
said, all of them have a good deal more HP, defense, and resistance than what
you'd expect out of grunts of that level.  Your target is the unit in red on
the other side of the map.  Kill the soldiers, then the monk, then the
magicians and/or any archers that get in your path, THEN the priests.  Four
archers will appear as reinforcements after the soldiers and monk are gone.
They show up all over the place.

Chapter 28 (Pearlpark) - The only notable thing about this battle is the
reinforcements (three Griffins).  They dodge like mad, but witches never miss
with magic. . .otherwise, not much to say about this.

Chapter 28 (Farhom Town) - It's like the producers sapped the difficulty of the
Pearlpark quest and shoved it in this one!  You'll eventually have to kill FOUR
of those F-Demons.  Three of them show up as reinforcements near the bottom of
the map.  All the Demons are ridiculously fast, dodge physical attacks like
nobody's business, and hit hard enough to kill almost any unit in two hits.  To
make things even more complicated, those snakes have enough punch to deal 300+
damage with Flame Pillar.  My advice is to bring Dia, and keep her alive as
long as possible.  Her spells are one of the few things that do significant
damage (besides FDs and Therese).  Pick off the demons one by one.  I wish you
luck.

Chapter 29 (Totrie Desert) - Choose between the F-Goblin and the F-Minotaur,
and aim for that one.  A combination of Goblins and Minotaurs will appear as
reinforcements once the first wave of Goblins die.  If you like doing things
the hard way, go after the F-Minotaur.

Chapter 29 (Bullhelm Volcano) - This mission is all fun and games until a small
army of Demons appear over the lava.  Think of this as a distant echo to that
awful mission in Farhom last chapter.

Chapter 30 (Bullhelm Volcano) - That F-Phantom has Gravity Ice.  The F-Golems
can move 5 spaces per turn.  Why is this a level 4 mission?  Six F-Balls appear
all over the place once the Golems have died.  Let them come to you, then pound
them.  They like to use their half-suicidal area attack, so I hope you brought
a healer.

Chapter 30 (Royal Training Grounds) - Ah, the place where it all began.  The
four units you see on the screen are all you have to kill.  The soldier-looking
guy can heal himself, the archer's Confuse Shot confuse rate seems to be
boosted, the mage casts a long-range Gravity Ice, and the priest hits VERY
hard.  Kill the archer and soldier, then have someone unload on the mage.  From
there, snipe at the priest until it dies.

========
K. Lapis
========

You receive Lapis as a quest completion item or as a battle bonus item.  Lapis
must be equipped between battles.  Some Lapis have a set bonus (i.e. TEC +5),
while others have a percentage bonus (i.e. HP +5%).  Others have different
names, and different effects.  When I get a hold of a computer that will allow
me to type the names in Japanese, I'll post the Lapis I've found so far here.

The Lapis colors are a clue as to how "good" they are.  The order is yellow,
green, and red.

The yellow lapis will give +5 or +10 stat boost, +5 all (non-)magical stats, 5%
or 10% percentage boosts (except for the HP and MP one; that's 5% only, IIRC),
5% elemental damage boost, or 25% elemental damage reduction.  The Jump Shoes
(Jump + 1) and the Treasure 20% are in this category.

The green lapis will give a +10 or +15 stat boost (depends on which stat), +10
to all (non-)magical stats, 15% percentage boosts, 10% elemental damage boost,
or 50% elemental damage reduction.  The Wing Shoes (Jump + 2), the HP/MP
recovery auras, and the Treasure 50% are in this category.

The red lapis are EXTREMELY good.  The ones I've collected so far:

- One stat +20
- Percentage stat +30%
- HP and MP +20%
- Boosts all non-magical stats by 20
- Boosts all magical stats by 20
- Recover 20% of damage you inflict on an opponent
- Recover 10% of HP or MP each turn
- Increases AO by 2
- Increases healing item effectiveness (if I've translated this right)
- Increase one element's damage by 20%
- Greatly decrease one element's damage
- Decreases damage (or so it seems; the character who is equipped with this
Lapis will no longer complain when being hit)
- Auto Medical (I have no idea what this does, but I've got a lot of them)

(I don't see the point in posting Lapis when the names and descriptions are in
Japanese)

=============
L. To do list
=============

1. Do a better job with the walkthrough
2. Get the Best Breaks for everyone
3. Finish the Quest guide more thorough
4. Find a way to type up the Lapis guide
5. Get information for Online Battling
6. In-depth character descriptions (in terms of gameplay)
7. Eat dinner

==========
M. Credits
==========

If you want to contact me, my e-mail is cherriebomber (I hate spam, so just
imagine the at sign here) gmail (there's supposed to be a dot here) com.

I welcome e-mail on:

- After Breaks - A LEGAL way to get Windows to type in Japanese (that doesn't
require the purchase of Microsoft Office) - Sub-quests - A better translation
of the story - Expressions of absolute joy - Constructive criticism

Please don't send me e-mail about:

- Completing the walkthrough - Quests (not yet!!) - Emulation - Troubleshooting
the cartridge/DS - Spam - Stuff that most people wouldn't show their mothers
(sometimes, she watches me as I type) - Stuff that's been answered in the FAQs
- Mindless criticism

I would like to thank:

The Man Upstairs - It's a long list and a longer story.
The GameFAQs boards - I wouldn't have ordered this game without you!
Marvelous Entertainment (http://www.mmv.co.jp/special/game/ds/Luminous2/) - For
another awesome game!
My computer - I've put you through some serious abuse to get this FAQ out and
running.
A certain someone - The kanji dictionary that you gave me for my
birthday has been seeing a lot of use.  Thank you for a most unusual gift.
The Luminous Arc 2 Wiki (Japanese) (http://luminousarc2.or.tp/) - For a LONG
list of stuff.
Textpad (http://www.textpad.com) - for making an awesome text editor
You - for reading all this text!

(end of file, end of writer's stamina)