The Rage of the Ages burns for Eternity... Let's play Flames of Eternity!

[Kahran042]

Remember me? The guy who did all those text adventure LPs, and also Odyssey: The Legend of Nemesis and about a third of Dragon Quest VI? I'm back, and with a Let's Play of…

Well, not exactly. As the thread title says, it's going to be a Let's Play of Flames of Eternity. But just what isFlames of Eternity, you may ask?

Formerly known as Crimson Echoes, Flames of Eternity is the largest Chrono Trigger ROM hack ever created, acting as a midquel to Chrono Trigger and Chrono Cross set five years after the former and fifteen years before the latter. Development began in 2005 and was well-documented on the Chrono Compendium, but shortly before Crimson Echoes was to be released in 2009, the CE team was slapped with a cease and desist order, although there is some debate about the legitimacy of said order. I'm not going to get into that here because I'm not exactly well-versed in legal stuff.

At any rate, as is the way of the Internet, some nearly-complete copies found their way online, and so it remains alive, if incomplete. At some point it was renamed Flames of Eternity, probably to hide from the wrath of Squeenix's lawyers, and this is what we'll be experiencing in this, my third screenshot Let's Play and twelfth LP overall, if you count my archived Dragon Quest VI LP.

Oh, yeah. Spoilers, whether they're for Flames of Eternity, Chrono Trigger, or Chrono Cross, are fine as long as they're properly placed in spoiler tags. With that out of the way, on with the game!

It should also be noted that while I have played through Flames up to the final dungeon, it was a long time ago and I've forgotten a lot of it. So consider this a semi-blind LP.

This LP is dedicated to the memory of Akira Toriyama.

Table of contents:

• 0. Prologue
• 1. Legacy of Zeal
• 2. Double Trouble

 

[Kahran042]

Prologue

As with the other Chrono games, there is an attract mode featuring various scenes from the game. It's pretty spoiler-iffic, though, so I won't be showing it. As with the OG Chrono Trigger, the title screen dumps you right into the New Game/New Game + (available from the start now!)/save file screen, but with the a sweet remix of the Epoch music playing.

Just in case you forgot what game this is…

Call me a wimp if you want, but I always go with Wait mode in ATB games. I prefer being able to take my time.

Sorry to disappoint you, but I'll be going with default names here. If you really want to change the names around, you can find your very own copy of the ROM hack here. That being said, you might have noticed the new portrait. All seven heroes have them, and they're pretty cool.

Here are Marle's and Lucca's new portraits, BTW. Now, on to the actual game!

Since it's technically a beta project, Flames of Eternity does have at least one exposed debugging feature - this "stage select" screen. Each of the characters on it corresponds to a different set of tests, but we won't be bothering with that. Oh, and the treasure chests can't actually be opened, if you're wondering.

Instead, we'll just be talking to Melchior and going to the prologue.

After the young NPC couple walk off, the camera pans to Crono and Marle.

Marle: Tomorrow is the big meeting with Porre. Daddy's worried... I hope nothing bad happens!

Yes, Crono talks in this ROM hack! This is because he is no longer the main character, and thus no longer a silent protagonist. As a matter of fact, Flames doesn't really have a central protagonist, but gives some degree of focus to all seven of the original heroes, with Crono ironically receiving possibly the least.

Marle: Well, it's getting late. Don't sleep in tomorrow! I...

And with that, it cuts to black, with the sound of ringing bells. Sound familiar?

Yes, it's the classic Chrono Trigger intro.

However, this time Marle is the one waking Crono up.

Marle: Today's the big day!

Marle: Hear that? It's already 9 o'clock!!

Lucca's waiting too!

And with this, we finally gain control. You might have noticed a little sparkle on the book on Crono's desk, so let's check it out.

Not much to it, really, but it's there.

That package on the table looks interesting, but let's see what Crono's mom has to say first.

MOM: Marle already left for the castle. Go catch up with her!

Now to check out the package.

MOM: This is a cake I made for Miss Elisa. There's a postcard for Bandeau's wife too.

MOM: I didn't post these yet, so if you have the time, maybe you can deliver them yourself! You'd be even faster than the postal service, son!

Hmm, sounds like a good excuse to see what Guardia is like in the year 1005 AD. I know that Bandeau's wife is probably with her husband in Medina, but I'm not sure about Elisa. Maybe we can ask Crono's mom about her?

Or not. Oh, well.

This is what Truce looks like in 1005 AD. Not too different from the way it was five years ago, but the people will almost certainly have new things to say. First stop, the inn.

Looks pretty similar to Trigger's inn, but the people inside have new dialogue.

Young man: Been to Porre lately?
(Yes) - Boy, has it changed!! Armed guards patrol the streets, watching your every move.
(No) - They seem to have it out for people from Truce...be careful!

Maid: Bah, cooki and clean... Oh! Well come on in...! Leave some dirty dishes for me to clean, why don't you...!

Soldier: Hey bud. I'm from Choras, with the pilgrims. Hard work, guarding! Hah!!

Young woman: Wanna hear some music? It's 10 G.
(Sure.) - (music changes to "Memory of Green" until Crono leaves the inn)
(Sorry.) - (end conversation)

There's also one more NPC on the second floor of the inn.

Kind of sad, considering how much work the party, especially Robo, put into regrowing that forest. In addition to this guy, there's also 250 G in the guest room, which is free for the taking. Next stop, the Mayor's Manor.

The maid at the entrance doesn't have anything new to say, but the old woman shortly in...

...is Mrs. Elisa. I have no idea how you'd know this, other than following the classic RPG maxim "Talk To Everyone".

MRS. ELISA: You're such a caring young man Crono. Here! Take this!

And she gives him 300G.

Hmmm... I wonder why she doesn't want him to tell? Suspicious...

 

[Kahran042]

Continued from previous post.

The tutorial has been significantly changed since Chrono Trigger, as I'll show here. First of all, the treasure chest now contains a Gold Rock. The tutorial people also have new dialogue, as follows:

Young man: Melchior's Hut is west of Medina. I repeat, west of Medina. You know, that village with Mystics in it?

Girl: Hey Lucca's teaching me about time travel theories, want to learn?
(Time Traveller Immunity Theory):

(Time Bastard Theory):

Pretty heavy stuff. I'm not entirely sure I understand it myself, but it will probably be important later. The boy and the young woman don't have any new dialogue, so let's check out the upstairs.

Naturally, there's new dialogue here, too.

Soldier: Hey! Did you hear about the refinement of certain magic? "Haste" and "Protect" now cover the entire party instead of just one person. It's a real edge in battle! There's also OmniShield, which ups physical and magical defense.

Old man: Hey, it's you again! I remember you from five years ago. Playing this on the Wii U? No? You mean this isn't an official Square Enix sanctioned game?! Weird...

Young woman: Shop and equipment technology hasn't changed much over the last five years. Press down on the first screen of a shop to equip things. And... In the item menu, press A twice on an item to see its stats and who can equip it. And by the way, the Power stat doesn't matter for bow and gun users.

Young man: "Run away, fight another day." Some people say it's cowardly, but it's my philosophy. How do you run? Why, hold down the L and R buttons, of course!

As before, the old man's chest contains 100 G. And that's the Mayor's Manor in Flames of Eternity. I could head to Medina to deliver the Postcard, but I think I'll explore the rest of Truce first, starting with Lucca's house since that's the next building clockwise.

Conveniently enough, Taban and Lara are both there, so let's see what they have to say.

TABAN: Grr, stupid clock! To think that even I can't fix the dang thing...

LARA: Now honey, don't get so worked up! Lucca will fix it when she returns from that meeting!

The shopkeeper is on vacation, so the next stop will be this generically-named Residence.

Young man: Lucca's grown up, but she's still a bit of a crackpot! We all remember that Telepod incident! Hah!

Young woman: I'm so happy I could scream!

This was also her line in Chrono Trigger, but it'll be important later, which is why I transcribed it.

Young woman: Crono and Nadia make a nice couple! Here's to the future King Guardia XXXIV! I just hope his reign is not tainted by all that trouble brewing in southern Zenan...

And that's everyone in Truce, unless you count Leene Square, which I'll be covering later. Now to head to Medina.

Young man: Ever since the Porre fallout, the ferry only goes to Medina now. But there are some who think it's unfair business for the Mystics...

Maybe. And I have a feeling that this will be a plot point later, too...

Diablos: A toast to peaceful times! Though things are a little more tense than usual lately...

Young man: The boss worked doubletime to make the new addition. He wants to best his ancestor's restoration of the Hero's Grave!

Man: Urgh, quit standin' there and give me a hand!

The Kilwala offers a free ferry service to Choras, but considering how much space this update alone has taken, I think you'll forgive me for not going there just yet.

This is Medina in 1005 AD. The two orange houses north of town are the Medina ticket office, so let's see what the rest of Medina has to offer, starting on the right side.

Hench: Nothin' like Medina curry! Hits the spot!

Blue Imp: I checked out that pyramid, but Toma XIII is already up there! That guy...he must be rich from all those archaeological digs by now!

Bandeau's wife: Sigh...Bandeau's in a lot of trouble. He contracted with Porre, and now he can't fulfill his end of the deal. And I've got the coughs... Hm? Oh, this is from Gina... Crono, like your mom, there are still good people in the world. Thank you... for this token of hope.

If you didn't already know, Gina is Crono's mom's name, as is revealed in the Japanese version. Unfortunately, Bandeau's wife isn't as generous as Elisa, but at least we've got that out of the way.

Blue Imp on left: Life is good, but liberty requires vigilance, you know?

Young man: Hey, Crono! You can make a killing selling trinkets from Guardia over here. ...That's okay with you, right?
Crono: Sure!
Young man: Cool! Well, seeya around some time, Prince!

I think this guy is part of a subquest later, but I'm not entirely sure.

Young woman: Sometimes I feel ♪ So all alone ♪ Finding myself ♪ Calling your name... ♪♡

Blue Imp on right: She's a great vocalist from Truce. Right now she's doing some karaoke...

Blue Imp: That rock on the tip is called the Rock of Medina. It celebrates the completion of the peninsula. At night, you can hear a faint hum... Strange.

Mud Imp: Life's good. The Medina Peninsula was a huge success. It's one of the most daring undertakings of pure manpower in our time.

And no, we can't use their cabinet for time travel anymore. Shame.

On entering the Elder's house, the music changes from "Delightful Spekkio" to "Silent Light," and a cutscene starts. This is why I saved it for last.

BANDEAU: Eh? But Elder, there are countless Porre merchants waiting to do business here. Just sign the agreement, and they'll steam right in.
ELDER: ... Again, no, thank you. Right now, we don't need to get involved in Zenan politics. Your ferry service is enough.
BANDEAU: Urgh, I don't believe this...
BANDEAU: Hey, you guys! What if riches lay in wait for your town? For free, I might add? Wouldn't you take it without a second thought?
ELDER: Hey!! It's not for free! If I sign, we have to promise only to trade with Por...
BANDEAU: Enough! Have it your way! But don't come crying if ticket prices take a little hike, heh heh...
ELDER: ...mm, I'm in trouble now...
(Bandeau exits, Crono rushes in, and the music changes back)

Here's what these two have to say.

ELDER: I hate to lose his friendship, but Medina can't overextend itself. Well, make yourself comfortable here. Hospitality is one of my traditions.

Blue Imp: Mayor Mitch is like that sometimes. He doesn't like to be pressured...

So, the mayor of Medina is named Mitch. Good to know.

It turns out that there's one more building in Medina, and it's a weird one.

Blue Imp: Sigh...where did Ozzie VIII go? He just ran off one night... Come back soon, good buddy...

I think I might do just that.

Just a Green Imp. How hard can he be?

We mystics have found our illusory magic to be pretty handy.

Despite it being an illiusion, Crono is still at 1 HP after the battle, so I'm going to rest at the cafe. I believe that this whole "illusion" thing is foreshadowing an upcoming story arc, but again, I'm not 100% positive. Anyway, with our errands for Mom done, it's time to head to Guardia Castle to progress with the story. I know that there's a lot more to visit, but this update is already hella long, so I'll cover the rest of the Prologue content in a bonus update.

That's the Peninsula that those two imps were talking about, by the way.

As a little quality-of-life feature, Guardia Forest is no longer a dungeon, making Guardia Castle much easier to access. You might have also noticed that the Cathedral has been rebuilt, and it will be covered in the bonus update.

Soldier: The Castle is in tip-top shape for the meeting. Don't make a mess!

There is more to the castle, of course, but I want to get on with the story, so let's head to the dining/meeting room to do just that.

Crono: Loud and clear!

Marle: Yeah! If they try anything funny, we put 'em down!

Lucca: You're in safe hands with us, King!

During their lines, Crono, Marle, and Lucca each strike a pose, but I didn't have time to screenshot them.

GUARDIA: Ho! It would be most unfortunate for the Porreans to act out of line, then.

(King Guardia takes his seat at the table, and a brief fanfare plays)

Hmmm... this envoy talks kind of funny. Certainly that won't be important later...

PORREAN: It is a...new policy to protect our emissaries. And my name is Ingrus.

Lucca: And your guard? Cat got his tongue?

INGRUS: ...! His voice is... raspy. Lost, that is. He is a drill sergeant, and shouts often.

GUARDIA: Fine, fine. Let's move on. Take your positions, gentlemen.

INGRUS: The town of Porre seeks redress for three items. Firstly, we would like to annex a small, reasonable portion of Fiona's...

GUARDIA: You can't be serious!

GUARDIA: I haven't the foggiest idea what you're using all that fuel for, but you've already turned the outlying areas of Porre into barren grasslands. Why don't you research steam power with the rest of the world?

INGRUS: But the royal administration owns all the patents and machine shops...

(Lucca shakes her head)

Lucca: That's not true! You guys have a research laboratory on the coast!

INGRUS: Err...Okay, whatever. Now, the second matter. In 1000 A.D., the former mayor of Porre possessed a powerful artifact - the Sun Stone. The records indicate it was stolen by agents acting in the name of royalty, and the mayor's family wishes to file a claim of original ownership.

Marle: Huh!? He gave it to us, fair and square!

INGRUS: I'm sorry, but his widow asserts that it was forcibly taken.

Marle: Ugh, that's a lie! Daddy, do something!

GUARDIA: Sigh...All right, we'll put it under review.

INGRUS: Wha!? Hey!

Marle: Hey, I thought...

INGRUS: I'm sorry, but can we... be excused for a moment?

GUARDIA: Hmph! This does not reflect well on you, but go ahead.

(Ingrus and his escort exit)

My thoughts exactly, Marle.

Lucca: Hmm. Something just isn't right with those two...I get this creepy vibe from 'em. How about you, Crono?

(Yeah, they're strange!)

(They're fine...)

GUARDIA: Well, I have a bad feeling about this.

Both options lead to this.

(Exit Crono, Marle, and Lucca)

GUARDIA: Oh, dear...

GUARD: Sir, you might need to start thinking about teaching Princess Nadia to be more diplomatic...

CHANCELLOR: Did I...miss the meeting?

It then cuts to Team Crono in the storage room.

INGRUS: Doesn't matter now. We should get back before they get suspicious.

ESCORT: NEGATIVE. WE-WERE-GIVEN-THE-DIRECTIVE-TO-KILL-NEGOTIATOR-IF-2-OUT-OF-3-CONDITIONS-WERE-NOT-MET.

What was the third condition, anyway? I don't think it's ever mentioned again.

INGRUS: What!? You can't be serious! We were only s'posed to ice the Chancellor! We can't murder King Guardia! On top of that, it was supposed to be discrete! You poison his drink, we get out, and no suspects are found!

INGRUS: Ugh! C'mon, let's dust these three and get out of here!

Lucca: Stand down or be shot!

ESCORT: SITUATION... COMPROMISED. RETURNING-NOW.

(The escort runs away)

Marle: Whoa! He's fast!

Lucca: C'mon! We have to catch him!

(Exit Crono, Marle, and Lucca again)

I don't really get what's going on here, but I think that Ingrus is pretending to still be knocked out to avoid any trouble with the guards... or something like that, anyway.

Although I wasn't able to screenshot it, there was a brief shot of Ingrus' escort also running across the bridge, with the trio in hot pursuit.

Crono: Yeah, his speed's inhuman!

Lucca: It's so fragile...I spent six months just putting the pieces back together!

(Lucca shoots the escort, who drops the egg)

Lucca: I've been trying to make a Time Egg, you know, like the thing that revived you! This is a prototype. I hope it wasn't damaged.

Crono: Unreal. It's so small!

 

[Kahran042]

Continued from previous post.

Marle: Um...Lucca??!

Lucca: Heh, it's just burning off some excess charge. I think... I should be able to take care of it in a few seconds.

Marle: Hurry, that Porre agent is getting away! And if that thing is really like the Chrono Trigger... this could be bad!!

Lucca: Oh...oh boy. We have to get out of here! This thing is crumbling apart!

Marle: It's WHAT?!!

Lucca: Well, with some help from Melchior, I'm starting to understand Gate mechanics. But this one's damaged, and could go any second!

Lucca: I have no idea how powerful it is! Eh heh...

(The egg sparks again.)

Lucca: It'll unleash a temporal vortex in the immediate vicinity. Like a big Gate! If it works, that is!

Marle: I don't think we have any choice! Let's get out of here!

Kino: Ayla...Ayla go! Ayla leave Kino!

Ayla: NO! Ayla fight...

Kino: No, Ayla weak. If Ayla fight, Ayla die! Kino no want Ayla die... Kino fight and come back. Kino real warrior. Go!

Ayla: Kino...

...I refuse to seal ye back in that cave. Belongst thou in the castle... Thy true home and where thou art needed most.

Glenn: What? Remember thee naught? Ever I spoke formally!

SOLDIER: I apologize. Glenn, the King is ready to select the first leaders of the new order. He requests your presence at the castle.

Glenn: I understand. Let us embark!

Robo: W-what?! Lucca, what are you three doing here?!

Lucca: Robo! Where are we?

??? Ho, ho! This is most interesting!

BELTHASAR: Most interesting, indeed...

And that's the prologue. Sorry if it was boring, but that's usually how prologues are. Join me next time, as we seek out the Legacy of Zeal!

 

[Violentvixen]

Interesting, I've never heard of this!

 

[Beowulf]

Oh, this is going to be great. I actually started replaying this after I replayed Chrono Trigger (...well, the Schala Edition hack) last year, but got distracted from it.

First, the important fun fact: My livejournal post on Crimson Echoes was, for many years, the only extant FAQ for this hack. I wrote it in 2011 based on the original hack (which I had found the "98% complete" leaked version of), and it was still getting comments a decade later. I think the vast majority of it still applies to this refined version of the hack.

Second, I'm concerned about your ability to get through the game as a New Game, as opposed to a New Game+ from the original game. (You play through Chrono Trigger to the end, then rename your save file to match the hack filename, then start a New Game+.) The balance is...not great, and I remember a bunch of points where you have a single-character battle against an overpowered foe.

Young woman: Crono and Nadia make a nice couple! Here's to the future King Guardia XXXIV! I just hope his reign is not tainted by all that trouble brewing in southern Zenan...

And third, Crono won't be King Guardia XXXIV. He's a commoner who married into the royal line. Marle will be Queen Nadia I, he'll be King Consort Crono.

 

[Classic]

You don't dictate the peculiarities of Guardian Royal Succession, man!!

Less junkposty:
We could consider it a title like Raidou Kuzunoha.

 

[Mogri]

I have also never heard of this.

I'm not sure I would put the sole heir to the throne and her husband on security detail, personally, but what do I know?

 

[Kahran042]

Legacy of Zeal

You may have noticed one of the seven heroes of Chrono Trigger wasn't present in the montage at the end of the prologue. Granted, he is an optional character, but we still haven't seen any hints of what he's been up to in the last five years.

So let's rectify that.

A Beast approaches Magus, but is driven away by his sheer coolness.

Ah, the black wind... That gale has not left my ears... since that... Hmph, howl all you wish.

The first three words appear slowly in this dialogue box in a way I can't really show. It's still freakin' badarse, as is to be expected from Magus.

However, it's kind of undermined by the fact that he collapses immediately afterwards and is rescued by an Earthbound One.

This is Magus' new portrait, and he has definitely been hit with the pretty stick. By the way, I was considering renaming him Janus, as has become a tradition of mine ever since reading an especially heartwarming entry on the TV Tropes Fridge Brilliance page, but I said no character renaming, and I'm going to stick with that.

Anyway, the warm place the Earthbound man mentioned is a hut inhabited by an Enlightened and an Earthbound woman, who immediately begin talking.

Earthbound woman: Did you hear the latest?

Enlightened woman: They found some more ruins?

Earthbound woman: Yeah! With the water receding and all, a bunch of Zeal treasure is being found!

Enlightened woman: Mm! I hear some people are crossing the ocean to get some of the artifacts.

Enlightened woman: No kidding. Such a pale face... And what's with those strange clothes?

Earthbound woman: Guess you never know what to expect!

Earthbound woman: Oh, you're up! We were worried! No need to thank us. We all have to work together to survive!

Magus: …I'll be leaving now.

Enlightened woman: At least see the Elder before you go. He rescued you, ya know?

And with that, we've got a direction!

First, though, let's take a look at the menu, now that the game has started for realsies. You might noticed that Magus' stats have gone down significantly in the last five years, and that he has a completely new set of equipment. Both games completely changed the names, but not the stats, of all the equipment in the game.

Magus' tech list might look familiar, but it has changed since Chrono Trigger, and since Crimson Echoes. CE replaced Magus' elemental spells with completely new ones, which made the next dungeon infuriatingly hard. This is probably why the elemental spells returned, albeit with edgy new flavor text.

Anyway, let's see what the people in the Last Village, or the First Village as it's now known, have to say, starting with the two women in this hut.

Earthbound woman: Take care, not all your wounds are healed. You could visit Sargon, as he found a Zeal Recovery Spring, but he's charging outrageous prices to use it.

Enlightened woman: Feeling better? There's an empty hut in the village. You can rest in it whenever you want.

Enlightened man: That crafty Nu left, but there's another shop in the southern village. Sigh...these clothes are getting a little worn, but they remind me of Zeal too much to throw away.

Yes, there is another village in this era now, as the name "First Village" and the isthmus to the southwest in the screenshot of it imply. This is the hut in the middle, so by the process of elimination the empty hut is the one on the left. So let's check out the Commons.

Enlightened woman: Hear what Sargon's been up to?
(Yes): How greedy of him to hog that Spring! One that WORKS, too!
(No): He found a Recovery Spring in the new mountains, and added it to his collection! He's quite the miser!

Enlightened man: What a flashy outfit...There have been sightings of someone wearing vibrant clothes like that in the south. Probably a ghost from the past...

Earthbound woman: Hey, I remember you! It's been what? One year? Ya find what you were lookin' for?

Earthbound kid: Weeeeeeee! Hah!

Earthbound man: Whew! Every day brings a fresh opportunity to explore. The greatest times are always ahead!

Enlightened woman on right: Some people have migrated to the newly risen land.

Enlightened woman on left: The legacy of Zeal can still be felt.

Earthbound man: Trinkets from Zeal have become sort of a currency around here. Can you spare me a "Jade Orb"? No?

I believe that this is part of a sidequest later, but I'm not 100% certain.

Earthbound woman: Snow and ice still cover the land in thick sheets, but a little more melts each month!

Talking to Alfador will cause him to meow, with Magus responding, "Soon, Alfador..." Now to talk to the elder.

ELDER: Some of the elderly have grown sick, myself included. Please... Go and find Sargon, as he has a Zeal Recovery Spring. For our sake...

Magus: ...

ELDER: Please, this is not just for us... This is for you too, Janus. You have kept searching without ever resting... I know your powers have declined.

ELDER: And even so, you're still the strongest among us. You're the only one Sargon may listen to.

Magus: ... Fine. Wait for my return.

And we've got a quest! First, though, some new dialogue from the elder:

And now, across the new isthmus to...

Sargon's house is pretty obvious, so let's check out the other three first, starting with this one.

Earthbound woman: Once the water receded, we decided to look around up here for new resources. We settled in!

Earthbound man: I built this extension myself.

Enlightened researcher: The ruins of our famous cities are looted, then abandoned. They don't serve much else use, considering they no longer are powered by magic. I've been able to chart and account for most of Zeal's structures, save for a couple. But my notes will probably be lost long after I die. Cough... We Kajar scientists are a dying breed.

Earthbound man: Welcome to the largest store in the WORLD!

This is the shop mentioned in the First Village, and sells basic healing items. I decide to pick up a little of everything, spending all but 10G of my money.

Enlightened man: The locals have named this place Mist Village, after the fog created by melting snow in summer.

Now to visit Sargon.

You can't actually talk to Sargon yet, but he does have a few lines if you wait for a while in his house.

Magus: Command me again, and I'll spare no torment in your death.

SARGON: ...S..sorry. Um... Wha, what can I do for you?

Magus: Just let the villagers and me use the Recovery Spring.

And with that, we now have two free healing areas in this era! Let's go back to First Village and report to the elder.

ELDER: Good, thank you Janus.

ELDER: There have been many sightings of persons in Zeal clothing. I...

This being a CT/CC midquel, I'm pretty sure you were expecting this guy to show up at some point.

ELDER: D, Dalton!

DALTON: Been a while, hasn't it?

ELDER: That's...no!! Leave us alone!

(Magus does his cape thingy, if you know what I mean)

DALTON: Heh, the Prophet! Give me a break...Now, where is Sargon? Speak up!

(The elder steps forward)

ELDER: No! Get out of here!

DALTON: Please! You're as obstinate as that traitor, Schala...

Magus: You'll regret that!

DALTON: I disagree. Now, can someone PLEASE tell me where Sargon is, before I toast the lot of you?

WOMAN: No! My child is here! Please don't fight!

(Magus and Dalton turn to face her)

WOMAN: Sargon's house is south of here, near the new village!

DALTON: Was that SO hard? You get to live...for now! Hah!

Sounds like we're heading back to Sargon's house. When we get there...

SARGON: Lord Dalton? He asked me where I found my artifacts, and hurried off.

Magus: And you told him? Idiot!! Do you know what you've just done?

SARGON: Waaait! Please don't hurt me!

Magus: ...Tell me where he is.

SARGON: T, The woods east of here!

Now we know where to go next.

These are the woods in question. They're accessible before you talk to Sargon, but there's no reason to go there before now.

It seems like a normal snowy forest...

...but, as the name implies, it's inhabited by Beasts. As in CT, physical attacks boost their attack power, but one spell from Magus takes them down. The chest contained a Mid Tonic, BTW.

The colored beasts from the Mud Imp battle in the original game also show up, and have the same strengths and weaknesses as before, but I think they have also less HP. This chest contained a Black Rock.

 

[Kahran042]

Continued from previous post.

What with Magus' spells all being multi-target, this might actually offer a slight challenge, in that it'll take two turns to win instead of one. Actually, now that I think of it, I could have used Lightning 2 here, but hindsight is 20/20.

The second screen of the Beast Forest has the Beasts appearing on screen pre-battle, and also has little fishies in the water. If I'm not mistaken, said fish are dummied elements from the base game. Fortunately, the Beast doesn't react to Magus' presence...

...until its buddy shows up.

Shortly after the Beasts is a save point, where I foolishly waste my only expensive Shelter. But then, save points are usually there for a reason...

DALTON: The prophet, again? Heh... You're too late anyway!

Magus: I shouldn't have left you alive back then...

DALTON: Actually, I'd love to stay and catch up, but I have a date with immortality! Should you wish to witness the birth of my divinity, the ceremony will be held at the ruins in the far north. Now, do me a favor and...Die!

Of course, when Dalton is around...

...his Golems won't be far behind. The Golem Boss may have been a joke battle back in Chrono Trigger, but this time we're not in the sky, so his fear of heights won't come into play.

Instead, he fights like a more typical Golem, copying the element of the previous attack.

This means that the trick is to mix up your elements to keep him constantly changing, and avoid physical attacks, since the Golem's physical counters are NASTY.

And he goes down like every other Golem - in a blaze of sour grapes. Seriously, it just took one casting of each of Magus' elemental spells to defeat him.

Before that, though, there's something much more important - that chest that was on screen throughout the battle. It contains a SilverStud, which, if you know your Chrono Trigger accessories, you'll know is a great accessory for casters, like, say, Magus.

After that, exiting this screen automatically deposits Magus on the world map...

...so he can head to Dalton's Creatively-Named Dungeon, stopping at Sargon's on the way for some free healing.

Inside, it looks like the cities of Zeal, but with Confusing Melody playing in the background.

Shortly after entering, we're attacked by two Lashers and a Jinn Bottle.

Fortunately, Jinn Bottles are weak to magic, and Lashers are just plain weak. However, the Jinn Bottle's HP was apparently increased, since it takes three spells to take it down.

Before the battle, I noticed a shiny thing on the table, so let's go investigate it.

Unfortunately, it's not a tab, but a hint as to the gimmick of this particular dungeon.

Specifically, it's a maze, with a tombstone in each room. If we examine the tombstone...

...we're given a Chrono Trigger trivia question. Random fun fact: It wasn't until I played this ROM hack that I realized that unlike the other two "Zeal soldier"-type enemies, Lashers do indeed use knives instead of staves. This means that the correct path is the left. Going the wrong way leads to a battle with a Golem, which is a good way to grind for experience and tech points later in the game, but for now I'll be taking the correct paths.

Naturally, there are monsters, too. Come to think of it, why is Dalton's Dungeon guarded by Lashers and not Bashers, which were actually called Dalton Corps in Japan and Daltonites in the DS remake?

I'm going to show all of the trivia questions here. See if you can figure them out!

This room looks simple, but if we examine the tombstone...

Which means that the obvious exit is probably going to lead to a Golem battle.

Instead, you're supposed to head north through a fake wall to another four-way room...

...and a battle with two more Lashers. Naturally, the tombstone has another trivia question.

The correct path leads to yet another battle, but at least it's easy.

Unfortunately, the final tombstone isn't very helpful. If I recall correctly, you're supposed to examine the statue to proceed.

Looks like I recall correctly. Shortly into the room, we encounter Dalton yet again.

LASHER: Yes, sir!

DALTON: Okay! Get ready to write: And then it came to pass that venerable Dalton - yes, he who subjugated the Golems - located the Silver Streak of Zeal and taking it upon his mantle, declared the new kingdom an immortal one, with Dalton as eternal regent over... Hm?

I can't help wondering what the Silver Streak of Zeal is. As far as I know, it's never mentioned again after this scene.

Magus: These games are over.

LASHER: Hiyaaah!!

DALTON: Wait...I detected magic! Shadow, no less! Just who are you?

DALTON: Humph! Doesn't matter anyway. Your aura has weakened a lot since those events five years ago.

DALTON: With your death, I will be the only heir of Zeal once more!!

And with this, we're thrown into a battle with Dalton.

Don't even bother - the damage dealt by this attack is more than twice Magus' maximum HP. You're obviously supposed to lose this battle, but it may be possible to win in a New Game +. I might show that off later, but I'm not making any promises.

(Magus collapses)

DALTON: Pathetic! You were much more tenacious last time! Hah, I'm gonna throw you in a stasis tube.

DALTON: Even though you're a wimp, you're an innate magic user... And I could need your energy to complete my device...

DALTON: After that, you'll make a nice snack for my Golems! Or if you're lucky, you might even become my new jester!

Flashback time!

SCHALA: But is it worth...? I mean he objected to it... The very idea of getting power from...

MAN: Don't be silly! That was before any of us knew the power of the great Lavos! Immortality is beckoning! And your mother demands you come!

SCHALA: But...

SCHALA: ...Janus? What are you doing here?

JANUS: ...No choice! I must use magic...

(The screen flashes white, Belthasar enters)

BELTHASAR: Janus...your magical energy! That's remarkable! I never knew!

FLEA: He's getting stronger... and fast, too!

SLASH: To be that powerful, physically and magically, for a human his age...

OZZIE: Yes, he is exactly the symbol we need!

Magus: I'm afraid I can't allow that...

SCHALA: You mustn't!

Magus: ......!

JANUS: Stop!

(Alfador meows)

Magus: Okay...I'll spare them.

And that's the end of this chapter. Join me next time, when we'll be in Double Trouble.

 

[Kahran042]

Double Trouble

It's been a long time, I know, but welcome back.

Previously on Flames of Eternity, Magus discovered Dalton's plan to revive Zeal, only to be trapped in a stasis tube. Today, we go back to the 1000 AD trio, who have just arrived in the future and been greeted by their old friends Robo and Balthasar. After a recap of said meeting...

Robo: That is correct.

BELTHASAR: Ah, perfect! Lucca, Marle, and Crono -- you must excuse me. The version of me that you encountered was from a ruined future, in the previous timeline! "I" have actually never met you! Until now, that is! Though I've long studied your adventure to defeat Lavos...

Marle: ...Wow!

BELTHASAR: Yes! Well, follow me!

Robo: I am pleased to see you again Lucca, Crono, and Marle! I'm sorry we can't celebrate this right now though, as I must keep an eye on the computers.

Lucca: We'll talk after the visit, then. I have so many things to tell you!

I created this temporal research institution after finding myself in this era. Through magic, long lost in this time period, and current science, we are able to conduct all kinds of research on temporality.

I think that Belthasar means "trustworthy" or "trusty" here... "trustful" means "full of trust", not "easy to trust"...at least, from what I've gathered.

Lucca: What's in this room?

BELTHASAR: Ah! Through that door is a hangar intended to house my next project, the Epoch II -- or, the Neo-Epoch. Whichever you prefer! Currently, the technology needed for a time machine that can travel to nearly ANY era is too crude and cumbersome for a mobile vehicle. Which brings me to my next work!

But Mother Brain, even though she is still used as a supercomputer, is restricted by adequate security parameters. There is nothing to fear!

Lucca: Interesting! So the Mother Brain AI is still in use! Hm...

Called the Temporal Dispatch Chamber, or "TDC", it utilizes a magnificent store of energy kept in magically tuned time circuits... ...to transport the contents to almost any place in time!

Marle: Whoa! This time machine can go anywhere?

BELTHASAR: Correct! Well, actually...it can only travel on a yearly scale. 1001 A.D., 1002 A.D., 1003 A.D... I can't break it down more. Such a feat is possible with a Time Egg, but the integrity of those is too fragile to sustain energy and usage of this magnitude.

BELTHASAR: This is why we have the "Temporal Catch", which is located in Robo's room. The Temporal Catch works only if a strong temporal disturbance exists somewhere, by forcing it to open and "catch" a nearby traveler.

Lucca: ...Amazing! You're a genius!

BELTHASAR: Hoh! I suppose the feeling is mutual, my dear. Well... I've got some more adjustments to make on the TDC, so why don't you take a look around? This facility has a large lower level, which can be accessed through the elevator to the left. Have fun!

And after all this, we can now freely explore! First, let's check out the party's stats. We could have done this in the prologue, too, but it just seems more appropriate to do so now.

I'd show off their techs, too, but these three are the only ones with completely unchanged tech lists since Chrono Trigger. Anyway, now to begin exploring this new future. Let's start by chatting up the folks in this room.

BELTHASAR: Go ahead and take a tour!

ATROPOS: Someday, this garage will house the new Wings of Time!

Young woman: Chronopolis is stationed on a small island in the El Nido sea. Belthasar chose this area for its electromagnetic qualities. Still, it's just an empty sea...

Soldier: So you are the famous heroes? We've read so much about you! ... Can I have your autographs?

Now, the next logical step would probably be to check out the large lower level that Belthasar mentioned. However, there is still another room on this level.

R Series: You can get to the mainland using the teleporter in this room.

The teleporter being those four green dots, which we'll be using once we've finished exploring Chronopolis. Speaking of exploring Chronopolis, the chest in this room contains a Mid Ether.

That save point certainly isn't there for any sinister reason...

Although it's hard to tell from this static screenshot, this room is an elevator, activated by examining the red and cyan lights on the north wall.

Soldier: This is the primary workstation. It facilitates a variety of activities.

Which we'll be learning about soon, I'm sure. For now, let's check out those two doors, starting with the one on the left.

Enlightened woman: Hi! This is the infirmary and rest area. Those chambers put you to sleep instantly and wake you up at whatever time you choose. They can also put you in stasis if you're injured. On the mainland, only the Central Regime High Command has medical technology like this...

But are you still hungry after using them?

Maid: Strange beds, eh? They may look curious to you, but they are actually very comfortable!

After which she asks if you want to take a nap. We're doing fine, so I say no for now and claim the Power Meal from the chest.

The room on the right contains none other than our old friend Melchior! Let's see how he's been doing these last five(?) years.

MELCHIOR: How are you Lucca? Surprised? Belthasar brought me here a few weeks ago! You're just in time to witness something spectacular! Here goes nothing...

MELCHIOR: Blast it! It didn't work. Oh, what am I doing, you ask? It's simple! In theory... My research indicates that Dreamstone, under certain conditions, can be rigidified into stronger material. Unfortunately, it's just not working! And I don't want to exhaust the Dreamstone supply... Or you may have to fetch some! Hah!

I am, indeed. Our next stop is the computer in Melchior's room.

Both of these computers are interactible.

April 16, 2305 A.D. - TALKS RENEWED

The states of Regiorra and Porre renewed talks with the Comet Islands today, hoping to achieve a new trade deal that would bring the wealth of the archipelago to southern Zenan. When asked whether a new agreement would injure the wealth of New Dorino, its mayor scoffed at the idea, calling the talks a waste of time.
- DISPLAY COMPLETE -

I think that you can use this computer at various points to get news updates, but I'm not sure. The computer on the right is far more interesting, though...

(So...when were you created?)
MOTHER BRAIN: I was created in 1998 A.D. to oversee work at the Genesis Dome. When production halted in 2200 A.D., I was relocated to Truce to perform intelligence work. In 2300 A.D., when Chronopolis was built, Director Belthasar secured my transportation here. He also unlocked my higher thought processing abilities, which were disengaged in Truce. I am now formally known as Mother Brain v2.8. I oversee the operations of this place.

(Who owns Chronopolis?)
MOTHER BRAIN: Chronopolis was created by Belthasar, who secured funding and resources independently from all governmental organizations. The actual location is the sea of El Nido, a barren stretch of ocean claimed by the Comet Islands government. The center has remained totally unknown to the outside world thanks to advanced cloaking devices.

Both of these are followed by this line. By the way, the chest contains a PowerGlove.

Although I can't really show it, the Dreamstone in the middle of the room slowly lights up, then flickers back to its original color on a cycle.

Enlightened researcher: Ah, you are the heroes. This machine is based off the same technology as the Mammon Machine, though the power source is different. That Dreamstone you see enriches the output of our generators tenfold. But we're always on the lookout for better sources of power... Ah, what an interesting world. I'm relieved Belthasar saved me after the fall of Zeal.

Marle: Wow, this is really impressive! What a bright center!

Lucca: So much technology... I could do a lot with this stuff!

Soldier on left: I'm monitoring power fluctuations. Don't want a surge now, do ya!

Young woman: It was simple for Belthasar to mimic the technology of Zeal and create this reactor.

Soldier on right: We can keep relying on this Dreamstone for a few decades at least. Belthasar would like very much to find new sources of power, though.

Enlightened woman: That Dreamstone chunk originally had some residual Lavos energy, but it was quickly used up.

The chest contains a QuantaShot, a weapon upgrade for Lucca. That's the lower level explored, but when we head back to the elevator...

However, before we can do anything, he makes his escape by climbing the elevator shaft.

Marle: Huh?!

Lucca: No idea...but we'd better stop him. He must be up to something!

Crono: Going UP!

No sign of the agent, but there's only one way he could have gone from here.

Marle: He's going to use the Dispatch Chamber!

Lucca: ...Not if we stop him!

Lucca: Oh. At least we're going somewhere familiar...

BELTHASAR: Find out what that person did! Hurry!

Marle: How'd you get to Chronopolis!?

Lucca: No use talking! Let's trash this guy!

PORRE AGENT: RETURNING-TO-BASE. (runs away)

Marle: Where could he be going? Back to Porre?

Crono: We'll find out, one way or another!

Lucca: They've got a base on the coast. That's got to be it! Crono, let's get a move-on!

(Exit Lucca, Crono, and Marle)

And with that, we're back in 1005 AD, right where we left from in the prologue. There's only one way to proceed to Porre, and that's through...

...Fiona's Forest.

This is pure speculation, but I'm guessing that Guardia Forest was removed as a dungeon to make room for this new one. Fortunately, it leads to Porre, so we're on the right track.

There isn't very much to Fiona's Forest, so we make our way to the exit quickly.

Before heading into Porre, we might as well make a visit to Fiona's Shrine.

Good for you. Unfortunately, they aren't selling hats anymore, not that we could afford them at this point in the game anyway.

I'm not sure if there's any significance to this line, but I thought I'd show it off anyway, if only because it's coming from a Blue Imp. Onward to Porre!

"Silent Light" is playing here, which is probably not a good sign. The base is in the northwest where the Cursed Woods were in Chrono Trigger, but let's see what the people of Porre have to say.

Soldier behind counter: Do business in front of the counter. Do not make me repeat myself.

Soldier at table: Travelers? What is your business? Do not loiter in Porre, or you will be severely fined.

The market has upgrades for everyone except Lucca, but the only one I can afford is a new sword for Crono. Still better than nothing.

Soldier on left: What are you looking at, punk? You got a problem? Wanna solve it? Get out of here, now!!

Merchant: The piano man's got talent. Stop by and check...it...out!

Young man: Fiona's Forest may have been saved 400 years ago, but if Porre keeps up this crazy logging, it may have been a futile effort...

Man: C-can't take it anymore... My sons...all drafted...

Soldier on right: ... Badger the piano player, and you will face serious consequences.

The relaxing tune is "At the Bottom of Night," and the other one is "Bike Chase," as in the original game.

Young man: Hiya. I'm an aspiring writer, and this place is chock full of good conflict. Porre, the masses of equality, versus Guardia, the elite and knightly few...

Hmm... based on this, I have a feeling that there might be more to him than what he claims...

Soldier: Knives...they are my hobby. But what good is a knife without something to cut?

Passed-out soldier: Argh...20 miles..

Woman: He works so hard to support us...

Girl: Mommy, daddy passed out!

Soldier on platform: Insubordination will no longer be tolerated. Do I make myself clear?

Left soldier: ...Yeah...I mean, yes sir.

Right soldier: ...grumble...

Young man: After those idiots in High Command decided the ferry funds were needed elsewhere, they shut it down. Ugh!

Young woman: Granddad is out of a job, so he's out peddling wares.

Old woman: Porre's generals are obsessed with rivaling Guardia in military might.

Left soldier: Beat it! There ain't nothin' here for you!

Right soldier: I must ask you to leave.

 

[Kahran042]

Continued from previous post.

(Where's the mayor?)
The position of mayor and elder was nullified one year ago. The citizens of Porre no longer require a civil leader as their ancestors did in the past.

(Why martial law?)
The increase of civil violence and discontent at the old systme have caused the people of Porre to look to us, who can provide a stable order.

The sparkly thing on the ground is a Power Tab, which I immediately use on Crono.

Soldier: Can't talk right now. Just don't touch anything, got it?

Although it's not visible in the screenshot, the book in the lower left corner occasionally sparkles, so let's check it out.

a comet dash across the night sky. I think of home in times like this - Of my smiling parents, and my kid brother. Judging from the state of world affairs, I pray he does not follow my path, and enlist. If he does, however, I'm sure he will make a fine leader. Good night.

-o- W.I. -o-

Having played this before, I think I know who the kid brother in question is. At any rate, that's everything in the town of Porre, so let's head to the base.

Lucca: Oh, quiet! Where's that weird guy sent to the castle meeting?

SERGEANT: ...I don't know who you're talking about. Please...

Marle: Step aside! We're gonna take a look!

SERGEANT: I cannot do that. Only the King of Guardia can authorize external inspections.

Lucca: Were you born yesterday? This is Princess Nadia and Prince Crono!! Let us through!

SERGEANT: Hmph. Fine, do as you wish. It's not like we're hiding anything special anyway.

And with this, we're free to walk around the camp. By the way, is it me, or was this tileset never used in Chrono Trigger?

The guarded building will advance the plot, so let's talk to the rest of the soldiers in the camp before talking to the guard.

Soldier left of fire: Heh, they expect me to pay respect? You Truce people...in your stinkin' rich clothes...phooey!

Soldier right of fire: Bleah, only a few people know how to make Heckran Bone soup. And our cook ain't one of 'em!

Soldier on ground: ...I'm just napping. Sigh...

Just west of the camp center is this strange machine. If we examine it...

It's not functional at all.

But it will probably be important later. Now to check out the huts, starting with this one in the northwest and going counter-clockwise.

ENGINEER: Heh heh, our little "project" is so powerful! It took out four troopers in the first test run alone. On the other hand, we're having a harder time trying to make the tank work...

In addition to the engineer, this hut also has a chest containing a Shelter.

Walking soldier: That William just sleeps all day. He must lead a charmed life...

Fans of Chrono Cross might recognize the name Ishito...

Hmm...I do believe I am tired, however. I will resume my nap, as I have the night shift. Do stop by sometme. I would hugely enjoy a chat with you fellows! Farewell.

Presumably, he's the W.I. who wrote the diary from earlier. Unfortunately, there's no loot in this building.

Outside the southeast building are two soldiers who I hadn't noticed before. Let's see what they have to say.

Left soldier: (He looks like he might be sick.)

The right soldier says the same thing, if you're wondering. Now to check out the building itself.

Soldier: Stop snooping around, darnit!
Marle: HEY!! Do you know who you're talking to!? We're Guardia royalty!
Soldier: Oh, sorry, um...I had no idea...!

Now to progress the plot.

Lucca: No way! The king would be furious, and so would we! We just have to find another way... Perhaps if they didn't know it was us...

Ooh, sounds like we'll be disguising ourselves as Porre soldiers! That happens to be one of my favorite tropes, so I'm not complaining.

Looks like those two sick soldiers have a purpose after all. Choosing to borrow their clothes causes Crono to knock them out, and then you acquire their uniforms.

Crono: I don't think the guy who had this was wearing deodorant...

Montcrief is obviously the one on the right, so let's talk to the one on the left first... after getting the SnipeShot from the chest, that is. Yes, another new weapon for Lucca before we even get to use the QuantaShot.

Marle: Uh...well, I wouldn't say it like that...

MONTCRIEF: Then I take it that Guardia is doing well?

Marle: HEY!! I'll ask the questions! Um...What's the deal with the envoy you sent? And where is the agent who escaped?

LuccaThat should get him reeling!)

MONTCRIEF: Uh...well, unbeknownst to us, spies had captured our emissaries, and went in their place to cause turmoil.

Marle: Spies from where?

Marle: Hm, okay...and what's that tank doing outside?

MONTCRIEF: It's the prototype of an... "automobile". It's for civilian purposes. I assure you, it is not equipped with weapons or armaments. It doesn't even work, in fact! Oh...and this concludes our deal. Send the Chancellor my regards. You may not return here. Have a safe journey home!

MARSHALL: A shame the mission failed.

MONTCRIEF: If only we had more... more soldiers, more weapons, and a working tank -- I'd give them what for, alright!

Lucca: I think so too. But we can't find the agent...For now, let's return to the castle and tell it to the King.

The trio exit...

...but who's that on the roof?

Anyway, the only thing to do now is head back north. However, in Fiona's Forest...

Lucca: It'll be dark soon.

Crono: This forest is no place for Guardia Royalty to travel at night.

Marle: Let's stay at Fiona's Shrine for the night and leave tomorrow.

Yes, let's.

It's dark now, and those three NPCs weren't there before.

Young woman: I'm on my way to Truce. Wish I could just stay there...

Soldier in red: Something bad went down in the forest recently. Be careful.

Soldier in blue: Oh, hello, Princess Nadia, Prince Crono. I'm investigating reports of thievery. Technically, my jurisdiction stops at Zenan Bridge, but the Chancellor is tired of complaints from Truce. What are you guys doing here? It's not safe.

The "something" in question is just a Tonic, but it's the thought that counts, right? The imp, and probably the nun, have new dialogue, so let's talk to them, too.

Blue Imp: Not long ago, a few Mystics decided to make a nice, natural settlement in the northern area. Porre killed the idea. Guess they thought we were spies.

Nun: Are you tired, travelers? You can sleep until the morning,. THe bandits who depend on this forest to live would not dare violate its guardian shrine.

Who are these bandits everyone keeps talking about, anyway? I made it through the forest without encountering any. Anyway, let's spend the night, because it's free and we probably need to do so to advance the plot, anyway. Meanwhile, back at the Porre camp...

The scene then fades to black as the "sealed chest/door" jingle plays. Ominous...

Anyway, having advanced the plot, we can now pass back through Fiona's Forest. It's as uneventful as before, but...

...we're blocked at Zenan Bridge, so there's no choice but to enter.

And there's a soldier right here, too.

A relative of Peppor's, perchance? Anyway, once we've crossed the bridge...

Soldier: Sir Crono! Porre troops are approaching! They have a tank with them!

Marle: What? I thought their engineers couldn't make it work?

There it is, though...

...with Montcrief right behind.

Time for a boss battle! It works similarly to the Dragon Tank in Chrono Trigger, so you'll want to take the head out first if you're playing along. Thankfully, with a party of three it's much easier to outpace the head's healing.

With the head gone, the rest of the tank should follow quickly...

...starting with the wheel, and, more importantly, the tank's multi-attack capability.

And, after an extremely long battle, the tank goes down, Crono learns Spincut, and the trio re-learn most of their Double Techs, including Aura Whirl, which I really should have gotten before this battle. As they say, though, hindsight is 20/20.

The scrapped tank then kerplodes...

...but Montcrief has one more trick up his sleeve.

SOLDIERS: Yes, sir!

Time for another battle! Thankfully, this one is much easier, due to being against generic mooks and because we can heal up with Aura Whirl. I have a feeling that these two battles should have been the other way around, but that's just me.

No, I have no idea why Montcrief's name isn't in allcaps this time.

AGENT: AS-YOU-WISH.

Just then, though, the heroes rush in, and Crono attacks Montcrief and the agent, who flee, dropping something shiny.

Crono: He lost something... It looks like...

Lucca: Did the agent steal it in my house? I have no idea what's going on, but if he used this to go to Chronopolis, perhaps we can, too. Belthasar may be able to give us the answers we need...Let's see if the Telepod Gate is active.

Yes, let's. First, though...

Included simply because I find "holler" to be an innately funny word.

My comrade went to inform the castle.

At least that's one less task for us, so let's head to Leene Square... after using a Shelter to rest up. I also forgot that I hadn't actually equipped Lucca's SnipeShot before the battles on the bridge, so I did so.

The Millennial Fair may be over, but there are still plenty of NPCs to talk to.

Old man 1: Boy, if only the other heroes from that gallery could come to life...We'd smash those Porre whippersnappers! And their treacherous ideas...

Boy 1: I'm the dark sorcerer, Magus! You are no match for me, Glenn!

Boy 2: I'm the brave knight Glenn! Taste mine Masamune, Magus!

Young woman 1: Whew! Just watching those boys play makes ME exhausted!

Girl: Would you like some lemonade, lady? It's only 5G!

(Sure!) - Thank you! (fully restores HP and MP, which means I didn't have to waste an expensive Shelter after all)

(Nah...) - Aw...Well, come again!

Young woman 2: Welcome to the Truce Food Emporium! (sells basic consumables)

Judge: Hey, come on over here, I got something for you!

The price is right, so why not?

Judge: Heh heh, ok. That'll be 1 G.

Narration: You ate something...strange!

Judge(?): ...

The party leader (in this case, Marle) then spins around a few times and falls down as the screen flashes different colors. O...K? The old man on the right and the soldier also have an interesting conversation.

CAPTAIN: Are you suggesting...we...

VETERAN: ...I don't think I could condone assassination. Collins might --

VETERAN: Collins doesn't matter. Let Montcrief die on the field of battle. We should defeat them soon, anyway. What a stupid mess his belligerence has gotten us in...

There are also NPCs to chat with at Nadia's Bell.

Old woman: Hey, did you hear the latest gossip?

(Yes) - Well, I guess it's hard not to know!

(No) - Montcrief used to be a bully victim in school! Interesting, eh? Well, that's what someone told me. I wonder if it's true...

That's usually how it is with gossip, except of course in JRPGs, where every rumor and bit of gossip is true.

ZACK: Oh, and tell your mom thanks for the pie she made us!

Oh, hey Crono! How's it going? Don't sneak up on people like that!

Gato's former pavilion is empty...

...but the prehistoric dance pavilion has been replaced by a sculpture garden depicting the six mandatory characters from Chrono Trigger! This is presumably the gallery the old man earlier alluded to.

Anyway, it's time to time warp!

Marle: Since when has this Gate been reactivated?

That's a really good question. Hopefully we'll find out at some point.

BELTHASAR: Yes, I share your conclusion. He apparently retrieved Lucca's Gate Key and used it to travel here... Which, by the way, implies the Gates have been reactivated, for some reason... In any case, he downloaded data on military engines and, back in 1005 A.D., fixed Porre's flawed tank prototype!

Marle: But how did he manage to remember all the information he looked up? He must be very smart!

 

[Kahran042]

Continued from previous post.

...And now, for last blood...!

BELTHASAR: One of you, stay here and help me monitor the systems! Robo and the two others, go down to the reactor and stop whatever is wreaking havoc there!

Which means that we'll have to form a new party. I'm going to go with Crono and Lucca, since Crono is my best attacker and I want to give Lucca a chance to use her new SnipeShot.

This is what Robo's new portrait looks like, by the way.

This is a full healing spot, so that comes in handy. She also sells the same items that were available in Leene Square, not that it matters since I only have 9 G. Unfortunately, the save point in this room isn't working for some reason.

ATROPOS: Be careful, Robo!

Since this is the first time we've had Robo in our party, here's what his stats look like.

As we attempt to operate the elevator, a single Mage shows up. Thankfully, he's pretty wimpy, he drops a Mid Tonic, and Lucca learns Napalm.

There's another Mage on the lower level, but he's just as easy as the first. He does manage to take Crono down, but at least I have plenty of healing items.

As I mentioned earlier, everyone but Crono, Lucca, and Marle has an altered tech list in this game. Double and Triple Techs stay the same, though. These are Robo's initial techs, plus one that you may remember Queen Zeal using in the OG Chrono Trigger. Good thing he still has Cure Beam.

One more Mage battle, after which Robo learns Dark Gear, which I'll be showing off in the very next battle I fight.

The soldiers exit, but one briefly returns to remove the Dreamstone from the reactor.

Followed by a battle with two Blue Shields. As in CT, you want to wait for them to remove their shields, then attack.

And, as before, the creatures behind the shields are called Yo duDes.

As promised, here's what Dark Gear looks like. Unfortunately, it doesn't do too much. But then, seeing as these particular Blue Shields are pretty much mini-bosses, nothing really does too much, except for Robo's punch, oddly enough. Believe it or not, Crono gained two levels from this battle.

Lucca: So, it was that Porre guy who started it, right?

BELTHASAR: Maybe...but those monsters looked suspiciously like the ones that used to guard the Ocean Palace in the past. We may have a problem here. Perhaps I should send you to 11995 B.C. to investigate...

Marle: Why not 12000 B.C.?

BELTHASAR: Because I couldn't bring you back! You see...

To return to Chronopolis, you have no solution but to use pre-existing wormholes, like those blue Gates that appeared five years ago... ...They have indeed emerged from their dormant states, for a reason that still eludes me.

You could also create a temporary portal by shattering a Time Egg, but we don't have any right now.

And each moves in time at the same rate as you...

Unless you have a Time Egg, you'd be stuck in a relative "past" forever!

"Yes" presumably repeats the whole demonstration, so let's just say "No."

Robo: We'll go to 11995 B.C. and explore the ruins of the Ocean Palace.

BELTHASAR: Yes. To get back to the surface once finished, just located a teleporter and activate it with your magic.

And it's time to form a party again! I think I'll go with Crono, Robo, and Marle this time to pick up some new Double Techs. But that's it for now. Join me in the next episode, in which we venture Beneath the Azure.

 

[Kahran042]

An announcement

You might have noticed that it's been a long time between updates. That's because, for some reason, I have more trouble deciding just what to screenshot for it, unlike with Odyssey and DQ6. Speaking of Odyssey, to paraphrase Pitor of McTeague, "after one has created one masterpiece- I would regard my Odyssey LP mine- it is so very difficult to create a second." So, I know that some people will probably be disappointed by this, but I've decided to abandon this LP, at least for now. And who knows? Maybe someone else will take it up. Until further notice, nantekodda.

-Kahran042