#composition strategies

[thisisgraeme]

Te Ara TuhiTuhi: Master the Journey from Initial Idea to Polished Composition

Te Ara TuhiTuhi: A System for Learning How to Write Better Welcome to “Te Ara TuhiTuhi,” a comprehensive yet easy-to-understand writing system designed to transform your initial ideas into polished prose.  This system takes you through a cyclical journey, mirroring the natural progression from the birth of an idea to its full realisation in writing. Here’s how you can navigate each…

[chiropteracupola]

first of two planned zines for @zinebash!! wow!!

[foodwithrecipes]

10 Easy Ways to Lose Weight Naturally

1) Every day after waking up in the morning, eat one tomato on an empty stomach.

2) Mix 3 tsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp black pepper powder and 1 tsp honey and drink it with a glass of water every morning. Do this continuously for 3 months, you will feel the change in your figure.

3) Even drinking a glass of carrot juice daily does not increase obesity.

4) Cut a lot of cabbage and mix it in the salad. Even this will keep you slim. Cabbage is easily digested. Also, eating it gives a feeling of being full for a long time.

5) Boil ginger and lemon slices in a glass of water for some time, then filter the water and drink it (make sure the water is hot). It prevents obesity as well as overeating.

6) Avoid excessive consumption of rice and potatoes. If you cannot live without eating rice, then cook rice in a pot instead of a cooker and throw away the excess water.

7) Include fruits like jackfruit, grapes, papaya, pineapple, apple, French beans, figs, peach, guava etc. in your diet. They are helpful in reducing weight.

8) Green tea also helps in reducing obesity.

9) Fasting once a week is also a good option. Take only liquid things on this day, it will remove toxins and extra fat from the body.

10) Avoid consuming too much salt, it leads to weight gain.

[so2collection]

Star Ocean: the Second Story Secret Ending / Group Ending / Composite Ending / Ending 86 Strategy Guide & Walkthrough ! Happy 25th Anniversary Star Ocean 2!

I wanted to do something sort of special before Star Ocean: the Second Story R releases in November. After playing this game since release you sort of run out of things to do. Although I started off pulling my hair out, I am developing a strategy to get the special, final ending, also known as #86 / Secret / Group ending.

When a guide takes 3 guides, 2 copies of the game, a new controller, a new composite cable, 3 websites, and 4 days... I’m prepared!

I started off by developing a chart after deciding on the party I want to attempt this with. I immediately got rid of Dias, because in the PS1 he has no PAs and therefore his relationship requirements would be more strict. I am playing the PS1 version mostly for personal preference but also because I have no easy way to play the PSP version. If you want to play that one, this guide might be applicable, especially with Welch and the new PAs all around that were added (including Dias). Another thing to keep in mind is that the grouping doesn’t really matter for the ending, you just need 8 characters.

After looking on a debug thread and 2 Japanese sites, I finally remembered I have the Japanese “Final Guide” and looked at that (with Google Translate, but still).

For my first attempt, I am focusing on a Claude playthrough. According to the Final Guide, you can play as Claude or Rena for the ending.

Here is the party I decided on: Claude, Rena, Celine, Ashton, Precis, Leon. According to the Final Guide you only need 6 or more to get the ending (in fact, it recommends that 6 be used for easier aquisition). These characters tend to have PAs with one another or a lot of PAs. Noel and Chisato are added to round the group to 8. Opera and Ernest were skipped because I feel Ernest has few PAs. Opera without Ernest is very difficult to override RP.

Further down the line I will post my chart which includes the boss events, joining events, and PAs that effect levels. Most of this information I gathered from GameFAQs thanks to a debugger, but they stopped around Disc 2 and even then the information is questionable except for what he could confirm with accessing FP/RP debugging.

The 100 battles = 1 point is a myth as far as I’m aware. I think how this myth came about is when party members die enough and you revive them or enough items are used (ie: Blueberry, Blackberry), I feel there is something there that may increase levels... This is speculation, though.

For information on pickpocket and reverse side, please click here and read the thread notes. I didn’t level for the Bandit’s Gloves, steal from Philia, or steal from the old man in Mars, since stealing comes with a huge risk in this sort of playthrough. I may risk the Bunny Shoes, though...

Claude and Rena won’t be included as they almost always have “30″ (game maxes at 15/16, but there is opportunity twice over for them) FP/RP by the end of the game. I didn’t need an extra tally to take care of. Just avoid PAs that reduce their relationships.

I am playing on PS2 hardware (partially due to the credits glitch on PS3). Therefore I have no way to check the levels 100%. Someone is welcome to try on emulator with debug using this guide (but please link it once I update this page). I will back up this post and add additional notes in my own text file, just in case. The only relations I can check 100% are Claude w/other members during Fun City.

The ending requires all characters 8 RP and FP for one another or higher (Final Guide). I will be shooting for 11, to make sure it triggers.

When I researched Blue Sphere, I stumbled upon a Japanese site that had a lot of information. I decided to check it out for this case as well. Along the way, I did find a calculation on the Star Ocean Wiki that says:

Affinity Points = RP x 2 + FP

The Japanese website also says (according to Google translate):

The conditions are that the party has 6 or more people, and that everyone has     8 or more affection value* and friendship value for each other .

*affection value in this translation is romance points

This confirms what the Final Guide says. 6 or more characters and equal FP/RP between all of them. I’m pretty sure reaching the end and using all books on each other doesn’t work (namely, because the 4 characters in the final fight get points, therefore, making them higher than the others... it seems the ultimate strategy would be to use books on everyone at the end except the characters you plan to use for the final battle, who would need an exact FP/RP of 7 respectively according to gender... I may try this in another attempt. Perhaps it would be possible to have a save before the Fields’ bosses and get everyone to 9... but raising the opposite values that aren’t raised by bosses becomes a problem.)

Please read my experience / walkthrough under the cut. Well, let’s start this guide! (I can confirm, somehow or another, it worked for me! If you’re after the ending, give it a shot! Let me know your results too!)

I started from a previous save that had Claude (with Dexterity, although I won’t be needing it yet), Rena, and Celine (start of Cross Cave).

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 5 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 5 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Claude: 5 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Rena: 5 FP, 5 RP

I played through the cave including the bat bosses. Celine joins. 

Note: Character join events Recruited Character Gender gains FP, Opposite gender gains RP. For example:

Ashton would give +1 FP to all relationships involving him and a male. +1 RP to all relationships and him involving a female. Relationships like Claude/Rena are not affected.

Note: Starting FP/RP levels are confirmed for everyone in the US and JP Official Guides.

Values should be:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 6 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Claude: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Rena: 6 FP, 5 RP

Next I will play until Ashton. 

Note: If you want Michief or to fight Unlimited Indalecio, don’t forget the PA in Clik. I do NOT recommend doing ANY stealing outside the 1 pair of bunny shoes later because the effect is so random. (See my notes/link above about Pickpocketing.) The values will be the following to start:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Claude/Ashton: 5 FP, 4 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 6 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 5 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Claude: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Rena: 6 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 4 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Claude: 4 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 4 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Celine: 4 RP, 4 FP

To gain some levels, we will play through Ashton’s event until XINE. We will wait to complete Ashton’s event until recruiting Precis for an extra boost to her (Note: I haven’t tested this... I waited until I had Leon in my party and could go to Cross after the ruins and his join event DOES NOT activate... You MUST do it before the Hoffman Ruins like the official guides say. I had to go back before the ruins and complete this, because otherwise you miss an Ashton PA that boosts FP for all in addition to his join event!)

The next section will involve playing until Precis joins, PAs, and our first boss fight to increase affinity. Note: Specific boss fights listed in this guide are confirmed to increase relationship. How so wasn’t listed officially, but the Final Guide does confirm the bosses. The debugger says that it works like join events and +1 FP to same gender, +1 RP to opposite gender.

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Claude/Ashton: 5 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 5 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 6 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 5 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Precis: 5 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Rena: 6 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 4 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Precis: 4 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 4 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 4 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Celine: 4 RP, 4 FP

Ashton/Precis: 7 RP, 5 FP

Travel to Lacour, visit Linga, perform PA to recruit Precis. All FP +1 (same gender) and RP +1 (opposite gender) are added.

Precis joins (PA):

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Claude/Ashton: 5 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 6 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 6 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 5 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Precis: 6 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Rena: 6 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 4 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Precis: 5 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 4 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 4 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Celine: 4 RP, 4 FP

Ashton/Precis: 8 RP, 5 FP

Precis/Claude: 6 RP, 7 FP (Start) should change to 7 RP, 7 FP

Precis/Rena: 7 FP, 6 RP (Start) should change to 8 FP, 6 RP

Precis/Celine: 6 FP, 5 RP (Start) should change to 7 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 5 RP, 5 FP (Start) should change to 6 RP, 5 FP

Since we’ve reached Lacour, you may want to consider learning Publishing. This is why we are keeping track of values, because RP and FP books reset the values to 8, no matter how high/low they are to begin. I purchased the skill set with Writing and Machinery in Hilton. You should already have maxed out Preserverance, so this shouldn’t be difficult if you saved all your SP from Ashton’s quest. We can learn Orchestra but it is unusable until Disc 2 / Part 2, because of the lack of instruments to purchase... We can wait and increase other needed skills for now. While you can make the romance books, I don’t recommend it without Orchestra, and since we can’t use that, it’s going to have to wait. So, for now, we will only increase F values with the common books for each character. Make 5 of each (remember, Leon) and if you want, make an extra totalling 6 of each book so you can publish them ASAP on disc 2 (this is a great way to get cash).

Also it would figure since I haven’t turned on my PS2 in three years that everything starts breaking down. Over the years of downsizing, I had only 1 composite cable and controller... controller has left stick drift and w/vibration on it randomly cuts out the analog ;___; Now my composite cable is giving flashy feedback and has corosion... Hopefully I get that fixed by the evening (thank God for Game XChange).

By the way, if you’re having trouble on funds, spend some time leveling in the Sanctuary. If you started the quest for the herb, just don’t venture too far back. You may also not want to over level for Leon. It couldn’t hurt to learn the Identify All! super specialty (Identify + Metalwork) to help ease the Fol cost at shops, either.

Precis joins (PA):

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Claude/Ashton: 5 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 6 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 6 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 5 RP, 5 FP

Rena/Precis: 6 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Rena: 6 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 4 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Precis: 5 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 4 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 4 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Celine: 4 RP, 4 FP

Ashton/Precis: 8 RP, 5 FP

Precis/Claude: 7 RP, 7 FP

Precis/Rena: 8 FP, 6 RP

Precis/Celine: 7 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 6 RP, 5 FP

After all Friends books are used:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 6 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 8 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 6 RP, 8 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 8 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 5 RP, 8 FP

Rena/Precis: 8 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 6 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 8 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 4 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 8 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 8 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 4 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 4 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 8 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Claude: 7 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Rena: 8 FP, 6 RP *do not need to use Rena’s book on Precis

Precis/Celine: 8 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 6 RP, 8 FP

After an hour I got 1 romance book (Precis) and 5 of each friend book. This included learning Identify All and some small grinding for cash.

Everyone’s values should be 8 now at for Friendship!

Complete PAs before the tournament. Some of them are unavailable after the tournament is done and you can’t leave during the tournament. The tournament must be completed before starting the quest for the herb in Linga. Here are a list of the ones I managed / chose to do. It is possible I missed a few. The original US guide doesn’t list the FP/RP changes, so I have to match and go with the PSP version’s guide. 

Private Actions: Linga: Unable to trigger any PAs except the salesman.

Herlie and Hilton: No relevant PAs.

Location: Mars Character: Precis Info: Choose Choice 1 gives Precis/Claude +1 FP and open up a PA in Giveaway later. Updated value: Precis/Claude: 7 RP, 9 FP

Location: Mars Character: Ashton Info: Choice 3 gives Claude/Ashton Ashton/Claude +1 FP each Updated values: Claude/Ashton: 9 FP, 4 RP Ashton/Claude: 9 FP, 4 RP

Location: Mars Character: Rena and Ashton Info: Choice 3 Rena/Ashton +1 FP, +2 RP; Claude/Ashton -1 FP Updated values: Rena/Ashton: 7 RP, 9 FP Claude/Ashton: 8 FP, 4 RP

Location: Mars Character: Rena Info: Choice 2, no change

Location: Mars Character: Precis Info: Unable to trigger (going to try after the Tournament)

Location: Cross Character: Ashton and Precis Info: Requires 100 Fol. Choice 1 Ashton/Precis -1 FP, +4 RP; Claude/Ashton -1 FP Updated values: Claude/Ashton: 7 FP, 4 RP Ashton/Precis: 12 RP, 7 FP *RP SET Note: Should have waited to use Ashton's book on Claude... Oops.

Location: Cross Character: Precis Choice 1, then Choice 2 Claude/Precis +1 RP Precis/Claude +2 RP Updated values: Claude/Precis: 7 RP, 8 FP Precis/Claude: 8 RP, 9 FP

Salva: There are 2 PAs (Celine/Jam Shop and Young Girl PAs) that you should wait to trigger for a party wide boost in points. We also will be coming back later for a PA with Ashton anyway. I wasn't able to trigger any PA except Celine's which I avoided activating.

Arlia: I did the PA with Rena in her room (no change) and wasn't able to trigger any other PAs.

Note: If for some reason you plan to do the bonus dungeon, don’t forget to do Ruddle’s quest now.

Total with updated values: Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 6 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 7 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 7 RP, 8 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 8 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 7 RP, 9 FP

Rena/Precis: 8 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 6 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 8 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 4 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 8 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 9 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 4 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 4 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 12 RP, 7 FP *RP SET

Precis/Claude: 8 RP, 9 FP

Precis/Rena: 8 FP, 6 RP

Precis/Celine: 8 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 6 RP, 8 FP

Note: I’ll use SET for when a level reaches 11 or above. 

- Tournament of Arms / Claude “wins” (must complete ALL 3 FIGHTS before Dias first try, then lose to Dias) will give the usual increase of +1 RP/FP to everyone. This was found via debugging.

Note: Don’t forget to grab the Sharp Edge (Claude’s story) from Gamgee so you can make the Eternal Sphere sword later. This must be done before leaving Lacour whatsoever.

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 7 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 8 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 8 RP, 8 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 9 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 8 RP, 9 FP

Rena/Precis: 9 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 7 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 9 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 5 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 9 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 10 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 5 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 5 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 13 RP, 7 FP *RP SET

Precis/Claude: 9 RP, 9 FP

Precis/Rena: 9 FP, 6 RP

Precis/Celine: 9 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 7 RP, 8 FP

I checked again for that PA with Precis in Mars and I couldn’t sail during the tournament. However, *after* the tournament the PA triggered for me, so I’ll update those values now:

Private Actions

Location: Mars Characters: Precis Info: Choice 3 Claude/Precis +1 RP Precis/Claude +2 RP Notes: I checked a few guides out of laziness and both of them had conflicting reports of what this PA does. I took these points from the official Second Evolution US guide.

Updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 7 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 8 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 9 RP, 8 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 9 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 8 RP, 9 FP

Rena/Precis: 9 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 7 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 9 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 5 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 9 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 10 FP, 4 RP

Ashton/Rena: 5 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 5 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 13 RP, 7 FP *RP SET

Precis/Claude: 11 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Precis/Rena: 9 FP, 6 RP

Precis/Celine: 9 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 7 RP, 8 FP

Once you move onto the Sanctuary of Linga the boss ( Visseyer, this one is optional) increases the same as join events except for participating battlers only. This must be calculated carefully. We can choose between Claude, Rena, Celine, Ashton, or Precis. Consider which characters have a lot of PAs to increase points, like Ashton and Precis or already have high points including Claude and Rena. If you’re playing as Rena, you may consider forgoing her for another since she will have other PAs with characters and more opportunity to raise affection than someone else.

I decided on: Claude, Ashton, Celine, Rena (Claude and Ashton’s friendship was slightly damaged and Ashton/Celine Celine/Ashton Ashton/Rena values are low.) After this boss we are close to getting most characters at 10 or higher!

Updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 8 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 9 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 9 RP, 8 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 10 FP, 5 RP

Rena/Ashton: 9 RP, 9 FP

Rena/Precis: 9 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 8 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 10 FP, 5 RP

Celine/Ashton: 6 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 9 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 11 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Ashton/Rena: 6 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 6 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 13 RP, 7 FP *RP SET

Precis/Claude: 11 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Precis/Rena: 9 FP, 6 RP

Precis/Celine: 9 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 7 RP, 8 FP

Now is a good time to complete Ashton’s join event. Leon can’t benefit from it and it and another PA are inaccessible after the ruins so go do it now before you miss two chances to increase some FP. 

Ashton’s join event updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 9 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 10 FP, 4 RP

Claude/Precis: 10 RP, 8 FP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 11 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 10 RP, 9 FP

Rena/Precis: 10 FP, 4 RP

Celine/Claude: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 11 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 7 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 10 FP, 3 RP

Ashton/Claude: 12 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Ashton/Rena: 7 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 7 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 14 RP, 7 FP *RP SET

Precis/Claude: 12 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Precis/Rena: 10 FP, 6 RP

Precis/Celine: 10 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Ashton: 8 RP, 8 FP

I highly recommend you teach someone with Love for Animals the Survival skill and buy a full stock of pet food (purchase in Linga) from now on. I don’t know how but I got through the dungeon with 3 revives and like... 10 blackberries, including the boss on my first save in making this guide. I taught Precis the specialty but sadly I forgot Pet Food... This skill is invaluable going forward so make sure to have someone learn it ASAP. (Luckily when I had to redo the ruins I went in extra stocked... see details below.)

You may also want to get Aloe Jam (Linga, restores MP), Root Beer (Hilton, restores MP). These will be useful going forward as you’ll be flying through MP more often. I also got Leon some Suede Boots, a Reference Book, and an Amber Robe from Hilton and Linga. In general, if you have been ignoring weapons/armor you could upgrade now (especially if you struggle in the ruins).

Leon joins us at Lacour Castle’s lab, so he cannot benefit from books with his join bonus. He is included in the bonus, so let’s see what the values are now. (Leon’s values include his starting FP/RP +1)

Updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 10 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 11 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 6 FP, 4 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 12 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 11 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 11 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Claude: 10 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 12 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 8 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 11 FP, 3 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 5 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Claude: 13 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Ashton/Rena: 8 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 8 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 7 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 6 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Claude: 13 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Precis/Rena: 11 FP, 6 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 11 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Leon: 6 RP, 6 FP

Leon/Claude: 7 FP, 5 RP

Leon/Rena: 6 RP, 5 FP

Leon/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Leon/Ashton: 6 FP, 4 RP

Leon/Precis: 6 RP, 6 FP

Note: Black screen of death in Linga and now Hoffman ruins... Man, I never had it happen this often on PS3. I did get a new controller, so that’s some problems fixed. I will try one of my two other extra copies of the disc just to see if that somehow helps but I’m probably just having bad luck!

Note: After reloading to a previous save for Ashton’s quest... got black screen’d in the Salva Drift. -.-; I’m starting to wonder if it’s an issue with the PS2 Slim / PS2′s age that’s making it occur more often...

Don’t forget to max out Leon’s Perseverance before anything else. You should also take a little time to make 5 FP books and use the remaining FP books from the others on him to bring his values up (I forgot... and I can’t be bothered to go through the Ruins a third time, so I will use them later.)

Hoffman Ruins ( Harfainx/Phalanx) Bonus. Again this must be considered carefully. This fight is easier with Celine’s Thunderstorm, so she may be a given. Two fighters is recommended so we really can’t use Leon (this is subjective, if you want to). Asthon, Precis, Celine, Rena seem the way to go. If you aren’t using Claude often, you may change him out for one of the other characters, although this gives Ashton/Celine and Precis/Celine time to bond.

I raised Celine to level 31 so she had Thunderstorm for the boss (Leon joins at level 30 so I switched him out for the random battles). You might want to consider Flare Rings/Ruby/Star Rubies for random battles and Crystals for the boss fight as accessories to protect against the Salamanders and Phalanx’s respectively.

I want to say the values seem to be tracking... Before I had to reload my save, Celine died in a random battle and Claude cried her name. I’ll try to make note of any of these occuring, but I think on Disc 2 they will be pretty numerous.  I haven’t had any deaths in the boss fights and I know in SO1 that would cancel out the bonus for the dead character, so avoid letting anyone die in the special boss fights. If you’ve had this happen, you may want to adjust your numbers just in case.

Updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 10 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 11 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 6 FP, 4 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 12 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 12 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Claude: 10 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 3 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 5 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Claude: 13 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Ashton/Rena: 9 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 7 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 6 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Claude: 13 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Precis/Rena: 12 FP, 6 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 10 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Leon: 6 RP, 6 FP

Leon/Claude: 7 FP, 5 RP

Leon/Rena: 6 RP, 5 FP

Leon/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Leon/Ashton: 6 FP, 4 RP

Leon/Precis: 6 RP, 6 FP

Note: Once you arrive in Hilton, talk to the guy on the left (not the soldier) and you can go to Cross.

Complete PAs before returning to Lacour:

Private Actions

Note: If I didn’t list a PA I either missed it or there weren’t any relevant/good outcomes.

Location: Salva Character: Celine Info: Choose Choice 1 and Choice 1 again gives Celine/Claude +2 FP and All/Claude +1 FP

Location: Salva Character: Young Girl Info: Choice 1: All/Claude +1 FP

Location: Salva Character: Ashton Info: No choices availible. Claude/Ashton +2 FP, +1 RP; Ashton/All +1 FP

Location: Arlia Character: Rena and Precis Info: Choice 1: Precis/Claude +1 RP

Location: Arlia Character: Ashton Info: Need at least 1000 Fol. Event takes 80% of Fol from you. Ashton/Claude(or Rena if you’re playing her) +1 FP Note: I skipped this PA because I had 77k Fol... Hoping it might be there in VR Expel later...

Location: Linga Character: Precis Info: Need previous PA in Salva. Decline the offer for tea: Precis/Claude +2 RP Note: The SE guide says choice 1... but the choices are flipped from the PS1. Whatever version, just decline the offer for tea for the best result.

Updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 10 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 6 FP, 4 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 12 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 12 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 6 RP, 5 FP

Celine/Claude: 10 RP, 12 FP *FP SET

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 3 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 5 RP, 5 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 4 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 7 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 12 FP, 6 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 10 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Leon: 6 RP, 6 FP

Leon/Claude: 9 FP, 5 RP

Leon/Rena: 6 RP, 5 FP

Leon/Celine: 6 RP, 5 FP

Leon/Ashton: 6 FP, 4 RP

Leon/Precis: 6 RP, 6 FP

Once you move forward, Expel won’t be accessible for some time. Make sure you got / did everything you needed to do, especially any PAs that become blocked later, or if you’re like me, use any books you forgot to use (ugh, Leon’s books... I’m so dumb). There are also 2 important relationship boss fights coming up shortly, so recheck your values after PAs carefully. Leon leaves temporarily in Claude’s story, so if he has any accessories you wanna use in the interim, remove them before returning to Lacour. When he does permanently join, we will get another bonus.

Because I forgot, here are my updated values for Leon’s Affection levels after using his books and other’s FP books:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 10 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 8 FP, 4 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 12 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 12 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 6 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Claude: 10 RP, 12 FP *FP SET

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 3 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 5 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 4 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 8 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 12 FP, 6 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 10 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Leon: 6 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Claude: 9 FP, 5 RP *did not use Claude’s book as it would decrease level

Leon/Rena: 6 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 6 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 8 FP, 4 RP

Leon/Precis: 6 RP, 8 FP

Play through the game until you reach Eluria Tower and defeat Shin. At the top of the tower you’ll meet the 10 Wise Men and fight Berle. This fight, like the first Shin fight, is one of survival. Make sure no one dies and outlast the hidden timer! This effects values and if my previous suspicions are right, don’t risk anyone being dead at the end of the fight. I set my fighters and mage to avoid and usually control one of them to keep Berle distracted. Have Rena still set to heal. Because I actually had to consider values, I picked these characters for the battle: Ashton, Precis, Leon, Rena.

Updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 10 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 8 FP, 4 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 13 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 13 FP, 4 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 7 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Claude: 10 RP, 12 FP *FP SET

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 3 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 5 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 4 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 10 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 9 FP, 5 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 13 FP, 6 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 5 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 11 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Leon: 7 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Claude: 9 FP, 5 RP

Leon/Rena: 7 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 6 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 4 RP

Leon/Precis: 7 RP, 8 FP

DISC 2 / PART 2 / ENERGY NEDE

I want to reiterate this as you will soon be learning Orchestra to help with item creation. This is particularly helpful if you plan this ending with Noel (you can use books on him before he’s recruited and go back to the city for supplies from his house via the teleporter if you need to). Also purchasing a Beret and having the character you’re using to make books equip it will help. Try to have Orchestra at least around Level 8. Finally, move the current character to the top of your roster for slightly quicker crafting. Make sure to save frequently and use Identify All to lessen the cost. You may want to gain some levels around North/Central City and put the skills into Music and Writing. If you can afford to or make them, get the support accessories (like the Writing Software you should have obtained in Eluria Tower).

Note: When you do learn Orchestra DO NOT max everyone’s Music Talent (especially Claude!!) if you plan to do any post-game or extra stuff, as the Music level of a character, must be lower level.

Book value changes after Orchestra/Romance Books:

Note: Bold indicates a change.

Books used (RP): Claude/Ashton Claude/Leon Rena/Celine Rena/Precis Rena/Leon Celine/Rena Celine/Precis Celine/Leon Ashton/Claude Ashton/Leon Precis/Rena Leon/Claude Leon/Rena Leon/Celine Leon/Ashton Leon/Precis

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 10 RP, 8 FP

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 8 FP, 8 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 13 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Claude: 10 RP, 12 FP *FP SET

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 10 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 9 FP, 8 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 11 RP, 8 FP

Precis/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Claude: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Rena: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Precis: 8 RP, 8 FP

Sell any extra books (I had 20 of each FP book, so I sold 15 of them in case I want to lower values later) to the Central City Publishing House. I think I made something like 130k before royalities (we will go back before the Field of Power and nab that sweet Fol for late-game weapons/armor)

(If you’re using Chisato, don’t forget her recruitment requirements before proceeding.) Defeat the Psynard (no bonus points), other bosses, ect. and continue with the story up until the Field of Courage or Power. You may want to check any PAs that open/close during the time (IIRC, many are open pretty much indefinitely or only open after late game story events).

I’ve been sort of tallying the points, estimating what they would get participating in boss fights, and well... A lot of characters will still only have an FP/RP of 8 by the end, just because there aren’t PAs for them. My strategy going forward will be to use them in all the outside battles and hope something there raises it. Perhaps the ending requires 10 + same-gender points and 8 opposite gender points? I’ll try my best to figure it out, as I see no way to raise certain characters’ missing values (For example, Rena/Precis and Precis/Rena will be stuck at 8 RP... there is no way to raise it other than books at this point...) There are a few Second Evolution PAs that raise some characters further (like Ashton/Leon), but alas these are additions only to that version... I will most likely use a party of Ashton, Precis, Leon, and Rena going forward for random battles in some attempt to raise them...

I used Precis, Ashton, Leon, and Rena for the Cavern of Red Crystal.

My friends and I called the Psynard the Psnaef (Puh-snay ff) ! We call the ones in Last Hope the Prehistoric Psnaefs. :) I had to take a picture for my bff, because we named a Minecraft ‘Sniffer’ after it...

Before starting the Four Fields, I did this Private Action in North City with Celine:

Location: North City Character: Celine Info: Choice 2, Choice 3: Celine/Claude Claude/Celine +4 FP, +2 RP Notes: Cannot do this PA after Fields are cleared

Updated values:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 12 RP, 12 FP *RP SET, FP SET

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 8 FP, 8 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 13 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Claude: 12 RP, 15 FP *RP SET, FP MAX

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 10 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 9 FP, 8 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Precis/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Claude: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Rena: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Precis: 8 RP, 8 FP

While tackling the Field of Intelligence, I used Ashton, Celine, Leon, and Rena. There aren’t any changes but figured I would list it for anyone curious.

Field of Courage Guardian value changes:

Note: I used Ashton, Precis, Leon, Rena.

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 12 RP, 12 FP *RP SET, FP SET

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 8 FP, 8 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 14 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Leon: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Claude: 12 RP, 15 FP *RP SET, FP MAX

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 11 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 10 FP, 8 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Precis/Leon: 9 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Claude: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Rena: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Precis: 8 RP, 8 FP

The jump in difficulty grows here, so now is a good time to make the best weapons and armor you can. I hope you’ve been putting SP into Blacksmith, Alchemy, and Customize. I won’t list the details here, but make sure everyone has the best weapons/armor (remember to use Sharp Edge and make the Eternal Sphere) and good accessories like Fairy Rings, Star Guards, ect. before moving on. I usually train in the Field of Power. If you have Practice, even better. Save frequently and gain some levels and skills before moving on.

Ronixis, you’re ancient! (It’s okay, just makes me love you more.)

Star Ocean 2 mentions the Lezonian’s/Rezonian’s a lot... Having just platinumed First Departure R, I was suprised to see them talked about. That third party can’t give Ronixis a break...!

I trained with alternating characters. Claude, Precis, Leon, and Rena were who I used on the mountain itself.

I decided to go with Claude, Precis, Leon, and Rena, since Leon needs at least one more point with everyone.

Field of Power Guardian value changes:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 12 RP, 12 FP *RP SET, FP SET

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 9 FP, 8 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 14 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Rena/Leon: 10 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Celine/Claude: 12 RP, 15 FP *RP SET, FP MAX

Celine/Rena: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 8 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 11 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 10 FP, 8 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Precis/Celine: 12 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Precis/Leon: 10 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Leon/Claude: 10 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Leon/Rena: 9 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 8 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Precis: 9 RP, 8 FP

For the final field, although no points are given, it does give you some indication (similar to L’Aqua) of who your protagonist ends up with. I used Precis, Ashton, Leon, and Rena for the fight. Precis was my hostage (I couldn’t find any info, even in the guides on this; it seems random. I’ve heard its lowest affection level, which sort of tracks. It could have been either Precis or Ashton according to my numbers so far. However, what I didn’t expect was Celine to be chosen for the scene after the fight. This is more-than-likely-but-not-confirmed to be your highest affection character... I was really shocked it wasn’t Rena and I’m kind of worried I wasn’t keeping track of their points lol... This also explains why when I had Celine die during training that Claude was enraged lol I haven’t noticed too many other cries (I get Ashton/Precis a lot... ugh) but I HAVE had more “rare calls” than any other playthrough... I wonder if affection levels increase the chance of these. For example, Rena’s call for Fairy Heal is just Fairy Heal, but in rare instances she gets annoyed and calls “Please!” (as if saying, will you bastards stop getting hit?! lol)

Technically during writing this section it is 7.30.23 and I am kinda bummed I missed the anniversary by one day,  but I had to visit my mother and help her paint her living room... In Texas and summer, that’s a feat. Forgive me, Star Ocean gods, I had other duties ;__;

Just making a quick note I can’t fit anywhere, but if you’re struggling with the Barker, use Metalwork with a Star Ruby to make Protection Rings. Yes, they have a chance of breaking, but they can really turn this battle around when in effect by taking no damage/healing from Lost Patience... I didn’t record who I used for the fight, but it was likely Claude, Ashton, Leon, and Rena.

I performed the Private Action for Precis to learn Holo-Hologram for the first time. Very strange! There are no affection changes I’m aware of...

So, this playthrough has gone from ‘obtain the secret ending’ to ‘this is truly a commerative playthrough for the anniversary’. My bad RNG continued. After 3 hours and almost 60 Bunny Race tickets, I only got one set of Bunny Shoes, 50k Fol, and 3 Fairy Rings. (I highly rec getting the 50k Fol if you’re going for a full set as it easily covers the cost. Otherwise, you can wait until the Cave of Trials opens...) But wait, that’s not all!

I will go back and add some tidbits of screenshots I took and my wife had to get video of the following, but during the Marsillo fight, I had a wierd glitchy screen beforehand and during battle, without Leon in my active party, Precis had Leon’s voice lines when being hit or using her KMs... Specifically his Ouch!, Word of Death, and Ice Needles. Very strange, as in the fight with Shigeo, it was all normal...

Video here

Unless you want to use two mages in the last fight, this is your best bet to get Celine and Leon’s levels up in the same fight. I used Precis, Celine, Leon, and Rena. Leon and Celine’s levels are still low, but we can fix that with a PA in Fun City soon.

Berle (Armlock) value changes:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 12 RP, 12 FP *RP SET, FP SET

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 9 FP, 8 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 14 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Rena/Leon: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Celine/Claude: 12 RP, 15 FP *RP SET, FP MAX

Celine/Rena: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 9 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 11 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 10 FP, 8 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Precis/Celine: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Precis/Leon: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Leon/Claude: 10 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Leon/Rena: 10 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 9 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Precis: 9 RP, 8 FP

There are two PAs in Armlock we can do, one with Ashton and one with Leon. There is also a PA in Fun City you can use to increase Leon’s romance with any of the girls (I’m gonna pick Celine for this experiment) The other PAs availible are either unneeded or can only be triggered later. As I said before, there’s even more PAs if you’re playing Second Evolution.

Private Actions

Location: Armlock Character: Ashton Info: Choice 3, Choice 3 (Choose: Heartthrob drink) Claude/Ashton and Ashton/Claude RP +1

Location: Armlock Character: Leon Info: Choice 1 Claude/Leon FP +3, RP +1; Leon/Claude FP +3

Value changes:

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 12 RP, 12 FP *RP SET, FP SET

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 9 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 12 FP, 9 RP *FP SET

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Rena/Ashton: 14 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Rena/Precis: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Rena/Leon: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Celine/Claude: 12 RP, 15 FP *RP SET, FP MAX

Celine/Rena: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Ashton: 9 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 9 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 9 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 11 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Ashton/Celine: 9 RP, 9 FP

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 10 FP, 8 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Precis/Celine: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Precis/Leon: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Leon/Claude: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Leon/Rena: 10 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 9 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Precis: 9 RP, 8 FP

I couldn’t trigger the PA with Leon because it wanted me to trigger the one with Rena in the fortune teller’s room (yes, I did the cooking competition)... I didn’t want to raise affection anymore at the time between them or risk lowering it (there is no nuetral option), so I avoided both and hoped for the best.

From here, we go to the L’Aqua scene. This only shows who Claude’s highest value is with and most likely it will be Rena, so in aiming for an equal value playthrough, it’s pretty useless. Suprise, suprise, after the Space Time Lab, they had the highest affection and spoiler, I got their ending. That scene seems to add a lot of points...

For reference, I used the following to climb the tower: Claude, Ashton, Celine, and Rena. I used them for the first fight with the 3 Wisemen, then switched Celine out for Leon for Vesper / Decus.

Cyril: I think I used Ashton, Precis, Leon, and Rena...

Notes: Nothing else really notable, especially because I have the dungeon path memorized, I didn’t have to battle often. I got more rare voice clips, though!

Only thing left to do at this point is reach Indalecio and battle him. This increases the values as shown below. I used Ashton, Precis, Celine, and Rena.

Claude/Rena: N/A

Claude/Celine: 12 RP, 12 FP *RP SET, FP SET

Claude/Ashton: 13 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Claude/Precis: 12 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Claude/Leon: 9 FP, 8 RP

Rena/Claude: N/A

Rena/Celine: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Rena/Ashton: 15 RP, 9 FP *RP MAX

Rena/Precis: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Rena/Leon: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Celine/Claude: 12 RP, 15 FP *RP SET, FP MAX

Celine/Rena: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Celine/Ashton: 10 RP, 8 FP

Celine/Precis: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Celine/Leon: 9 RP, 8 FP

Ashton/Claude: 15  FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Ashton/Rena: 12 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Ashton/Celine: 10 RP, 9 FP *RP SET

Ashton/Precis: 15 RP, 8 FP *RP MAX

Ashton/Leon: 10 FP, 8 RP

Precis/Claude: 15 RP, 11 FP *RP MAX, FP SET

Precis/Rena: 15 FP, 8 RP *FP MAX

Precis/Celine: 14 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Precis/Ashton: 13 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Precis/Leon: 11 RP, 8 FP *RP SET

Leon/Claude: 10 FP, 8 RP *FP SET

Leon/Rena: 10 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Celine: 9 RP, 8 FP

Leon/Ashton: 9 FP, 8 RP

Leon/Precis: 9 RP, 8 FP

Ending Results:

The basic endings were... Leon alone, Celine alone, Precis/Ashton (Ashton is at Precis’ house trying to run away from her for trying to remove the dragons) and Claude/Rena (Rena is going to have a baby ending)

I was so nervous... but I waited until after the beautiful credits and I got the Composite Ending!

Conclusion/Final Thoughts:

When I started this blog of my adventure, I didn’t intend to succeed or celebrate on the same day as the 25th anniversary... but I did! 

I was in tears when the secret ending popped up...! Also, it was the first time I have seen the ending CGI in a long time, which also brought tears to my eyes... The melancholy of wondering what it must be like for the characters after their journey and what it must be like seeing the ending for the first time...! I really felt I got to experience that again! My bff was anxiously waiting for me to complete the game again and my wife cheered me on the whole way! <3

I got to hear so many rare voice clips, experience wierd glitches, and I had the worst RNG I’ve ever experienced playing this; all in this playthrough! I feel like Tria was testing me! (Or perhaps, for a veteran like me who has logged 1000+ hours of my life into the game, they really wanted this to be unique!)

In anticipation of the release of Star Ocean: the Second Story R, I am glad to say I finally got to accomplish my dream of obtaining this ending, playing on original hardware, and experiencing new things even two decades later... that’s part of what makes this game the greatest of all time and why it is my favorite and will always be special to me. I often imagine I’ll be playing this, the original game, when I am 80 years old and senile... because I can’t stop going back and looking for new things, experiencing the adventure again, enjoying the exhilirating battles and beautiful melodies. This game really is a treasure!

Future Notes (that I don’t want to forget as I play) / useful for other characters:

The official guide confirms the following bosses increase same gender FP and opposite gender RP:

Visseyer (Sanctuary of Linga, and this one is optional)

Harfainx/Phalanx (Hoffman Ruins)

Berle/Metatron (both fights, Eluria Tower and Armlock)

Guardian (Field of Power)

Guardian (Field of Courage)

Indalecio/Gabriel (I don't think it matters whether he has his Limiter or not)

Rena and Claude get a boost before they both join one another after Salva. Not sure the extent of this (please see the same thread as the Pickpocket thread as it’s debug info).

Rena and Dias gain a RP for each other during the tournament of Arms while you're helping Dias recover his sword

The Final Guide says when pairing your MC with another, the scene at L’Aqua before Fienal is a good indicator of which couple you get (however, this can change thanks to the final boss, PAs, ect.)

And unlike when most characters join, Dias gained no FP/RP with the other characters when he joined, and no one seems to gain anything with him.

Claude and Rena get +2 at the laboratory / tree scene.

An easy way to tell if your MC has affection high enough for another party member (no way to check between party members):

Note: Also taken from the GameFAQs thread:

It seems that your friendship with him is going all right, and romance too... Wait, that's hard to tell. Sort of... more than friends but less than lovers... you know? Romance does not look probable. He is more like that classmate you used to have long talks with.

My, you are getting along well, aren't you. You can easily hope for things to develop romantically. But don't take things for granted. If you care for him, think of his perspective in everything you do. One mistake could wreck the relationship. But there's no chance of that is there?

My, you are getting along well, aren't you. And the romance seems to be developing well. But don't take things for granted. If you care for her, think of her perspective in everything you do. One mistake could wreck the relationship. But there's no need to worry.

Hmm. Both of you seem to be beginners in love. I'm not saying that you are lovers yet, things still seem Platonic. But you must both learn about each other, understand each other, and by making up for each other's shortcomings it may be possible to arrive at your first, true love. There is still a chance. But if you miss it, then it will be difficult.

Your friendship seems to be going quite well, and she would be fine as a woman friend to hang out with. But there is little hope of developing a romance. But don't give up. There may be a chance. She's like that childhood friend and classmate you had long talks with.

Your friendship is going very well, and he will probably be a life-long friend. And this friend is turning into a lover now. You can look forward to that.

Numbers 1, 4, and 5 are easy to understand. #1 means FP and RP are both under 10. #4 means RP is 10 or greater (enough for an ending) but FP is below 10. #5 means FP is 10 or greater, RP is below 10.

No idea how to interpret numbers 2 and 3. My best guess on #6 means FP is maxed out, and RP is at least enough for an ending together, but not maxed out.

Chisato adds +2 FP/RP (dependent) when she joins instead of 1. You can’t use her books before she joins, unlike Noel.

[lys-jeorge]

[zkretchy]

//slaps burning bird onto my oc it that anything?

anyhow this general pose of birb-creature gripping onto human sized person like this has been in my brain for way too long so out it goes into the world

[captain-lonagan]

jonathan sims is like the wimpiest fucking level 2 warlock but he keeps getting put into 1v1 situations against level 15 tanks and it’s like. my man doesn’t have a healing spell to his name and has no armor what the fuck is he gonna do out there. no shit he keeps getting kidnapped and beaten up have you seen him. “not a very good spy” HE HAS VERY FEW POINTS IN DEX, TIM. he’s WEAK. he’s FRAGILE. and yet in every fight it’s like “yeah put that guy directly in the line of fire” jesus christ

[noxtivagus]

yoko shimomura i love her style so much

[uniqueeval]

Here are the three most important things to watch in the market this week

It was a rough start to the historically weak month of September on Wall Street. Economic growth concerns and investor trepidation ahead of Tuesday’s presidential debate and the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting later in the month sank the market. For the week: The S & P 500 gave back over 4% in its worst weekly performance in a year; the Nasdaq plunged more than 5.5%; and the Dow Jones Industrial…

[seashorepics]

Mastering the Art of Creating the Perfect and Popular Image Hack

Introduction:In today’s digital age, visuals are everything. They capture attention, convey messages quickly, and are easily shared. But not all images are created equal. The ones that go viral or become widely popular are often the result of a carefully crafted process known as an image hack. In this guide, we’ll explore how to create the perfect and popular image hack that not only stands out…

[chiropteracupola]

king of wands / six of wands

[jcmarchi]

Battle Aces Is A Far-Future 'Action Real-Time Strategy' Game That Aims To Make The Genre More Approachable

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/battle-aces-is-a-far-future-action-real-time-strategy-game-that-aims-to-make-the-genre-more-approachable/

Battle Aces Is A Far-Future 'Action Real-Time Strategy' Game That Aims To Make The Genre More Approachable

Uncapped Games, founded in 2021, has debuted its first title: Battle Aces, an action real-time strategy game for PC. Revealed during today’s 2024 Summer Game Fest showcase, Uncapped says it designed Battle Aces with RTS newcomers in mind in an attempt to make the somewhat difficult genre more approachable for wider audiences. 

Set in the far-flung future – the 26th Century, to be exact – humanity fights amongst planets in a struggle for resources, weaponry, and more. Players will take on the role of Battle Aces, or mercenary commanders, in charge of high-tech drones to fight “explosive, large-scale battles in the front lines of war.” 

Check out the action in the Battle Aces reveal trailer for yourself below: 

[embedded content]

“Battle Aces immediately sets itself apart from traditional RTS games by allowing players to choose their army composition and customize their play style through Unit Decks,” a press release reads. “With over 50 units to choose from at launch and more than 40 to be made available to play in the upcoming closed beta test, Battle Aces offers an immense variety of potential in-game matchups and near-limitless strategic potential that begins before a match even starts.”

Uncapped points out features like automated resource gathering, instant unit-spawning, and preset expansions as ways it aims to keep players focused on the fun of controlling and strategizing massive armies in combat, “even as they manage the moment-to-moment strategic decision-making of when to expand new bases, and when to tech for more powerful units.” The team says its U.I. allows players to quickly switch between unit production and army control seamlessly, and it hopes “the combination of design and U.I. elements makes it easier than ever to build and reinforce armies and keep attention on managing intense battles.” 

Speaking of battles, Battle Aces features 1v1 and 2v2 matches, and each match is limited to just 10 minutes.

Here are some Battle Aces screenshots: 

“The promise of RTS has always centered on building and commanding a massive army, and controlling how it moves and fights across the map as you match strategic wits against an opponent,” Uncapped senior game director David Kim writes in a press release. “In Battle Aces, our aim is for players of all skill levels and experience with RTS to experience that promise in every match. In fact, what we’ve seen in our testing so far is that players new to RTS or less familiar with the genre have been able to learn Battle Aces and grow in skill more quickly than any RTS our team has ever worked on before.” 

Are you interested in checking out Battle Aces? Let us know in the comments below!

[trader-sg112]

Market Recap: Dow Jones Gains, S&P 500 Holds Steady, NASDAQ Edges Lower

In the ever-fluctuating landscape of the stock market, today's trading session saw a mixed bag of results, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average leading the charge with a 0.2% rise, marking a gain of 78 points. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 maintained relative stability, experiencing a marginal decline of 0.02%, and the NASDAQ Composite edged lower by 0.1%.

The Dow Jones, a benchmark index known for its representation of 30 significant stocks across various sectors, demonstrated resilience as it climbed modestly, buoyed by optimism in certain key industries. Investors found solace in the steady progress of companies within sectors such as industrials and financials, contributing to the index's upward trajectory.

Conversely, the broader market sentiment, as reflected by the S&P 500, exhibited a more subdued tone, hovering near its previous close. While certain sectors displayed strength, others faced headwinds, resulting in a balanced performance overall. This nuanced movement underscores the intricate interplay of factors influencing investor sentiment, ranging from economic data releases to geopolitical developments.

Amidst this backdrop, the NASDAQ Composite experienced a slight setback, dipping by 0.1% during today's trading session. This decline comes amidst ongoing concerns surrounding inflationary pressures and the potential impact on high-growth technology stocks, which often populate the NASDAQ index.

As investors navigate through a landscape marked by both opportunities and challenges, it becomes imperative to adopt a diversified approach and remain vigilant in assessing market dynamics. While certain sectors may outperform in the short term, maintaining a long-term perspective is essential in achieving sustainable investment outcomes.

Looking ahead, market participants will continue to monitor key economic indicators, corporate earnings reports, and geopolitical developments for insights into future market movements. In a market characterized by its dynamism and unpredictability, adaptability and informed decision-making remain paramount for investors seeking to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the stock market.

[horsescary]

oop brainrot is real

[sealsdaily]

what are the different kinds of seals im curious

There are many different ways to categorize seals/pinnipeds, but we'll be focusing on the most integral to Seal Gameplay.

There are three families in your cast of playable characters: earless or "true" seals, eared seals, and walrus. These are then further split up in subfamilies, tribes, and genera. I'll sum up a brief overview of each subfamily's character class and the species within.

Phocinae: DEFENSIVE SUPPORT

These are the most common earlygame party members, and their support for the DPS can make or break a playthrough. You start the game with a Harbor seal along with your first party member, it needs no introduction. Some of these also splinter off into healing as well, but the Baikal seal also has an offensive supporter edge to it as its massive Perception stat lets it easily expose enemies' weak points and lower defenses. The Ringed and Ribbon seals are also very popular picks, they're simple but very effective at raising stats (ringed raises speed, ribbon attack)

Monachinae: DPS / ATTACKER

The bread and butter of any pinniped party. There's not much i can say about DPS seals, they do big damage! The most popular of these, of course, is the Leopard seal: It's a late-game add, but very worthwhile as it has the highest base attack stat, with good HP. Elephant seals are also a popular pick and synergize well with many fur seal species. Monk seals also have some support qualities, but it seems they're not used that often.

Otariinae: HEALING

Sea lions tend to range on a spectrum of focuses on either all-in-one healing or over-time healing. It's not as picked, but i often use an Australian sea lion in my party compositions for the over time healing, since it works really well with Spotted seals' shielding and DEF mechanics (walruses as well). Overall though, a Steller sea lion can work with mostly any party due to its simplicity.

Arctocephalinae: OFFENSIVE SUPPORT

You wouldn't believe just how much offensive status effects a fur seal can have up its theoretical sleeve. There are many subcategories under this character class such as focus on STUNs, enemy vulnerabilities, DMG over time, etc. Guadalupe fur seals especially are a hot topic: a lot of newbies tend to get intimidated by their risky and RNG-reliant strategies, but the more i've used them the more i can say they can absolutely be worth the risk.

Walruses: TANKING

Walruses are the only species in the Odobenidae family, so if you want a reliable tank there's just one pick. For what it's worth i don't really use tanks but i can definitely see the appeal in their shielding and DEF stats. They're also the only species that can redirect damage from an ally onto them.

Hope this helps!

[uniqueeval]

It's been nearly a year since we took profits in Eli Lilly. We're overdue for another trim

Every weekday the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer holds a “Morning Meeting” livestream at 10:20 a.m. ET. Here’s a recap of Tuesday’s key moments. Stocks were essentially flat Tuesday after the S & P 500 and Nasdaq kicked the week off in the red. Higher Treasury yields are a wrinkle in Tuesday’s action, making companies with higher dividend yields relatively less attractive. The market is also…