__                                       __
,-','                                       `.`-.
,' ,'                                           `. `.
,'  /                     _                         `. `.
/   /               ______ \\             _____        \  `.
/   /               /       \\\            \   /         \   \
/   !                | /| |\ || |            | |           \   \
/ /| |  ____      _   |/ | | \|| |,.    _     | |       ____ \_  \
! / | |  \   `.  ,' `.    | |   |    | ,'_`.   | |     ,'   /,'   |
| |_| |   | |\ \/ ,-. \   | |   | ,| |/ /_\ \  | |    / /| |/  /| |
|     |   | ||_|| |  \/   | |   | || ||  ___/  | |    | || || | | |
| __  \   | |   | |  /\   | |   | || || |  /\  | |  /|| || || | | |
| | \  \  | |   \ `-' /   | |   | || |\ `-' /  | |_/ |\ \| |\  \| |
|  \ \__\/___\   `._,'   /___\ /__||__\`._,'  /______| `.___\`._  |
|   `----------------------------------------------------------'  |
| |\,---------------------------------------------------------./| |
| | ___             _    ___     _  ___    _  _  _   _  ___ _   | |
| |  | / | \ | |  |/_ |_| |   /\|_   | |_||_ (_ |_)||_)| | (_   | |
\ |  | \_|_/ | |_ |\_|| | |   \/|    | | ||_  _)|  || \| |  _)  | /
\|                                                             |/
\                                                             /
Spoiler-free Walkthrough
by Relle
getrelle@yahoo.com
ASCII art by osrevad.  Used with permission.  If you would like him to do a
logo for your guide, email him at: osrevad[at]gmail[dot]com
Table of Contents
1.  Introduction
2.  Updates
3.  Characters
4.  Walkthrough
4a. Chapter 1:  Kharg's Story - The First Battle
4b. Chapter 1:  Darc's Story - The Awakening
4c. Chapter 2:  Kharg's Story - Setting Out
4d. Chapter 2:  Darc's Story - Ambition
4e. Chapter 3:  Kharg's Story - Conflict
4f. Chapter 3:  Darc's Story - Love and Hate
4g. Chapter 4:  Kharg's Story - Rage
4h. Chapter 4:  Darc's Story - Reunion
4i. Chapter 5:  Kharg's Story - Truth
4j. Chapter 5:  Darc's Story - Evolution
4k. Chapter 6:  Kharg's Story - Rivalry
4l. End Chapter: The Final Battle
5.  Revision History
6.  Acknowledgements
7.  Copyright Info
===============================================================================
1.  Introduction
===============================================================================
Arc the Lad was way off my radar till I tried a brief demo of the new
PS2 game at Best Buy.  I'm a bit abnormal in that I only need a few
minutes to know whether or not I'll like a game from start to finish.
Well, I liked Arc the Lad.  I'm writing this faq mainly to get something
new on my contributor page, and also because nearly everyone who writes
a faq for RPGs seems to be damn well determined to write down every detail,
gameplay-related or plot-related without any consideration on whether you
want the story spoiled for you.  Well, I'm here to prep you for battle,
tell you where all the items are (mostly just the ones I find) and leave
the story for you to discover.  If you want a faq that'll get you through
the game, but leave the plot free, you picked the right guide.
===============================================================================
2.  Updates
===============================================================================
1.20 - Added a Revision History section and moved all but the latest update(s)
down there.
===============================================================================
3.  Characters
===============================================================================
Listed in order of appearance in the game.  This is just my opinion in
general about each character, along with a brief assessment of their
abilities.  Enjoy.
*** Kharg ***
This guy's your hero and all-around fighter guy.  Above-average stats in
every category, with some good healing spells to boot.  It isn't till much,
much later that he gets an attack skill that affects an area, though.
*** Paulette ***
An extended range and decent attack and defense make for a great lady fighter.
She's also rather rounded in terms of stats, and can hit two or more enemies
if they're bunched up.  Her skills do great amounts of damage, and she has a
lot of them.  She's just not what you might call a power hitter.
*** Maru ***
Terrible starting defense, but that's easily fixed with a few accessories.
Naturally his attack power is lousy to compensate for his insane attack range.
He can easily hit two or more enemies if they're lined up relatively straight,
plus his early skills are both damaging and satisfying.  Later on you can get
an item to widen his attack range, but I think this also shortens the area he
can hit.  I'm not sure, though.
*** Darc ***
Like Kharg, Darc is the typical all-around hero of this RPG in terms of stats.
Unlike Kharg, this guy has some badass skills that should be used and abused
to clear the field of enemies.  Plus his offensive power is through the roof!
He later gets items that increase his attack range, making him incredibly
dangerous.
*** Delma ***
She gets some nice healing magic, and some great speed and attack, but like
Maru, her defense lacks.  Her Speed Up spell (that she starts with, no less)
should be used throughout the game.  She's got other stat-boosting spells and
she often takes the first turn in a battle, which gives you a great opportunity
to buff up your fighters.  She's a fine warrior/mage, just try to keep her
from getting kicked around.
*** Densimo ***
You get him for a very short time, and as you would expect, his attack power
is his best feature.  His hit and defense are lower than Darc's, even at
the same level.  About his only redeeming values are his strength and HP.
*** Ganz ***
This guy's a tank.  Massive attack and decent defense, but as you would
expect, his speed and movement are low.  He starts out with a great area
attack skill that causes lots of havoc if he's surrounded by enemies.  He
later gains some stat-boosting spells that'll improve his own tank-ness.
He also boasts some special moves that damage and deal negative buffs to
enemies.
*** Volk ***
His ATK is high when you get him, but unfortunately his DEF is rather weak
for some reason.  His DEF remains pretty low, even with some good accessories.
Equipping him with two armbands as opposed to one helps a lot.  His area of
attack is pretty wide, so he's best when used to smack two or more enemies
at once.  His low defense sometimes makes him a liability, but if you can
keep him healed and in tip-top shape, he's your wolfman.  Use him for his
power, abuse him for his stat-boosting spells.
*** Camellia ***
Besides being ugly as sin, she's not that bad.  Low attack power, but she's
got a ranged attack, so it evens out.  Her defense is better than Volk's
starting out, and she has some character-specific accessories that boost
it even higher.  She's not a front-line character by any means, but she is
quite possibly the best healer you'll ever get.  She also gets some weapons
that incur status effects on enemies, but they don't work that often.  Just
use her for healing and taking out grouped-up enemies like with Maru, and
she'll work out for you.
*** Bebedora ***
She's got above-average stats all around, plus a high max spirit stone count.
Her real draw is the Mind Control spell that lets her take control of an
enemy.  Use it and abuse it.  She's got relatively low HP, somewhere around
Delma's level.  On the very plus side, she's got some dark elemental magic
that really kills.  Literally.  Not only that, but she holds twice the items
of most characters, for a max of 16!  Sweet!  Her only downside is a low MOV,
which is a bummer when you consider she's a close-range combatant.
*** Tatjana ***
She's like Paulette in terms of stats, but with a much wider range of attack
Her skills are fun to use.  Medical Machine is a great healing spell, and
Mirage Field makes her invisible to enemies.  Sigma Gale and Sigma Storm are
both light-elemental, making them great to use against enemies later in the
game.  The only downside is her attack range remains low until you get an
item for her in the last dungeon.
*** Samson ***
For the brief time you get to use him, he's a replacement for Maru with
slightly better attack power.  His guns have identical range to Maru's bow,
but can hit in a slightly wider area.  His MOV, however, is pretty crappy
compared to the others, somewhere around Bebedora's, but his long-range
attack makes it a wash.
*** Choco ***
Don't let her appearance fool you, Choco is flat-out amazing!  One of the
two secret characters, her starting level is 35, which isn't too high
considering you have to be at level 30 just to beat the 30-round arena
challenge in Rueloon to get her.  Choco's defense is greater than most of
your party, even without any armor!  Her attack power is also off the charts,
and her movement area is as large as Camellia's!  She's fast, strong, and
has a wide range of powerful spells, and can hold can hold 16 items, making
her well worth the time to get her into your party.  Her only downside is
that she can't be used in the story battles, but give her some equipment
and she'll tear through the other arena challenges for you.
*** Diekbeck ***
Much like Choco, Diekbeck is a powerhouse,  Max movement, great stats,
incredible abilities.  The Diek Screw item gives him amazing speed, and
he has a better range of attack than Choco.  He still can't be used in
story battles, so don't bother unless you need help with the other arena
challenges.
===============================================================================
4.  Walkthrough
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4a. Chapter 1:  Kharg's Story - The First Battle
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You'll first watch a brief cutscene.  When you gain control, enter the house
(the one you're standing in front of) then enter the door on the right when
you're able.  When you regain control, talk to Paulette and leave.  Talk to
Banjo, receive some cash, then hit the shops and buy what you like.  When
you're done, head out the front gate (the only way out of town) and go to
Scrappe Plateau.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 1 - Enter the Squirrels
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, I will be making cute names for all the battles.  There's nothing to
this fight, really.  It barely warrants a FAQ review.  Pay attention to
what your party says during the fight, as they'll give you hints and tips
that'll be useful for future battles.  The only thing I can tell you is,
know thy enemy.  For this battle, know that the squirrels have a low range
of movement, while you can move all around this place.  To that end, rather
than rushing to the edge of your movement circle, go to the halfway point
(with both characters) and let the squirrels waste their first turn moving
into your range of attack.  This won't work with every enemy, but it's a
decent all-around strategy when you can't move close enough to score the
first hit.
=== End Battle ===
When you're done, you'll have a talk with the unusual Zed, then leave for
Yewbell.  There's nothing for you at Scrappe, so just leave.  Once back,
you'll see a scene involving Lloyd and Morth.  Go to your house once it's
done, watch the cutscene, then talk to Nafia and Morth.  Leave the house
and Zed will show up demanding to be let in via the locked gate.  Go to
the pub and talk to the kid standing to the right of it in the shadows,
then speak to Duncan inside to get the gate key.  Unlock the gate, watch
the cutscene, then enter the castle ruins.
There's only one path through here, so you can't get lost.  Just go up
two sets of stairs, then down the right-hand stairs to exit.  Go to the
Chaos Forest and watch yet another cutscene, then enter into your second
battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 2 - When Yetis Attack
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My levels  (Note: if you're at or around my levels, you should have no
more trouble than me in the given battle.)
Kharg - 4
Maru - 2
Another easy one, though you're introduced to a new element here: the
low-defense weakling with the massive attack range.  Yes, I mean Maru.
Even the squirrels do huge damage to him, and he doesn't have a lot of
HP.  Naturally, keep him away from the action and let Kharg soak up
the damage while dealing out some of his own.
Starting out, position Maru so he can shoot through the tree trunk and
the yeti in the same attack.  There's a good herb in there, so it's
worth the trouble.  Don't let Kharg waste his turn attacking the tree,
though.  Use Maru's range to his advantage to hit two or more enemies
in a single attack, and play around with his skills if you feel like it.
All in all, just heal if you need to and take out the enemies.
=== End Battle ===
Watch the cutscene and gain a new party member.  Now you have two choices.
Either go back to Yewbell and heal, or press on.  I'd recommend healing,
because you can buy a leather armband for Maru (really, he needs it).
Once you're ready, head to Plumb.  You may encounter some random battles
when passing over the forest, but they're just four weakling squirrels,
so punish them and take some experience and SP for your troubles.  Once
you arrive at Plumb, you're thrust into a rather expected battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 3 - Battle at Plumb Canyon
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 5
Maru - 4
Paulette - 3
This battle is surprisingly simple.  Focus on the wyverns first, then
let the Drakyr plod along to catch up to you.  Bust open the crate if
you can, but don't waste turns getting the far one on the other edge
of the battlefield.  The Drakyr have really low defense, so one of
Kharg's hits should take away a lot of their 47 HP.  Fight on, and
remember Paulette's range can also let you hit two or more enemies if
they're bunched up.  Don't let the Drakyr get in too many hits, and
you'll be fine.
=== End Battle ===
Watch the cutscene, then talk to Maru when you get the chance to leave
the area.  Go to the only point on the world map you can reach, and you'll
enter into yet another cutscene.  Here's where you'll be glad I didn't
spoil things.  The story's on automatic from now on, so keep watching till
it lets you save your game (which you should).
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4b. Chapter 1:  Darc's Story - The Awakening
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Once the cutscene is done with, simply leave the house and go to the world
map.  Try to level up in the forest to level 3 or 4.  Two or three battles
should do it.  Use Darc's healing magic to restore yourself, as your one
rotton herb won't do the trick.  You can visit the church to get a little
insight into Darc's psyche, but other than that it's not critical.  Once
you're ready, go to Orcoth.
Go down the steps to the right and view a cutscene, then talk to the big
fat white...thing in the upper right corner of the lower half of the town.
He's your healing guy for Darc's side, so remember what he looks like.  Go
to the arena (big archway leads to it) and watch another cutscene.  Save
if you want, then go back out to the town proper and go to the ruined shop.
The merchant Quorup will have magically appeared, so use your 100G to buy the
Phoenix Blood, and whatever you have left to get some herbs.  Finally, try
to leave.  You'll be stopped by a couple Deimos jackasses and challenged
to a fight.  Let's rumble.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 4 - Arena Challenge
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 3
If you leveled up, this'll be a cinch.  Focus your attacks on Zoram first,
and stay as far away from Zugalo as you can until Zoram dies.  Use magic
if you want, and in retrospect you should use Wind Slasher from a distance
against Zugalo as soon as you kill Zoram.  Besides that, there's not much
to say.  Fight well, and don't die.
=== End Battle ===
Cue another cutscene.  Delma will talk to you (ain't she a cute little
scary thong-wearing monster girly?) then you're free to leave for Geedo's
place once more.  I do hope you healed before leaving, since you'll likely
fight a random battle along the way.  When you reach Geedo's, head inside
and give her (yes, her) the Phoenix Blood and watch the cutscene.  Once you
regain control, head right back to Orcoth.
Once there, head to the bottom part of the town and go to the little
tent thing in the lower right corner.  Talk to Gorma and ask about the
Firbles, then heal and stock up on whatever, and leave.  Now you have
two paths to take: the easy way and the long way.  The easy way is going
to the marsh through Geedo's house.  The long way is...well, the other
way.  Either way, get to the marsh.
Unsurprisingly, as soon as you enter, you'll spot a Firble.  Hold the
circle button to walk.  You don't really need to be particularly sneaky,
just stay off the white patches of land (which are rocks, apparently,
and cause you to make noise when you walk).  Once you catch one, there
will be another cutscene.  You'll automatically be transported to the
church for another short scene.  Delma will show up, then run off.  Chase
after her (she went off to the right) for another cutscene.  Afterwards,
prepare for battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 5 - Drakyr Once More
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 5
Delma - 3
The fact that three of the Drakyr are stuck coming at you one at a time
from the staircase should provide you with a good idea of how to fight
this battle.  They'll still use magic on you from afar, so watch out and
definitely keep an eye on your HP.  This time the enemy can hit both of
you if you bunch up, so watch your positions as well.  Counter with your
own magic, and don't be afraid to use those spirit stones of yours.
=== End Battle ===
Afterwards, we have another cutscene!  Who'da thunk it?  Head back to
Geedo's house when you can, unless you feel the need to stop in and heal
or buy stuff in Orcoth.  Either way, go back and talk to Geedo.  When
the cutscenes are done with, head out and meet Delma once more.  Level
up if you want (wouldn't be a bad idea) and go to the church when you're
ready.  Make sure you're healed and have saved beforehand.  Watch the
cutscenes (checking on the Firble when prompted) then enter battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 6 - Damn Dirty Humans!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 6
Delma - 6
Kill Ludhi first.  He's your biggest threat.  Take out one of the shotgun
warriors, then kill Rapier to pick up his revival medicine.  Be a little
extra careful in this battle, as the shotgun warriors can raise their
attack power and do extra damage to you, plus they have an attack spell
that will damage both Darc and Delma if they're close together.  With only
2-1 odds, you shouldn't have any trouble with this fight as long as Ludhi
dies early on.
=== End Battle ===
Watch the cutscene, then go back to Orcoth.  Heal, buy stuff (if you want)
and go talk to Zoram and Zugalo at the entrance to the arena.  Go inside
when you're done and talk to Densimo.  Wait for the cutscene to end, then
leave the arena.  Before leaving the town, however, talk to the girl Deimos
in the lower left corner (near the path leading to Gorma's place)  Keep her
talking, then when she asks how many letters she used, respond with 600-800,
or the second to last choice.  You'll receive ten healing herbs for your
response.  Nice!  Save, heal, then head for Zedora Abyss.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 7 - Send 'em Into the Abyss
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 7
Delma - 6
Densimo - 7
This one's a little more difficult than normal, especially if you try to
get the items scattered around the level.  Use Darc and Densimo as front-
liners to absorb hits while Delma stands behind them and uses her attack
magic and heals (by this time she should have the cure spell).  You should
not finish this battle without destroying and taking the item beneath the
tree stump on the hill.  The Reiki leaf raises one party member's defense
stat permanently, so believe me, you want this.  The best way to do things
is take out all but one enemy (your choice) and stay away from him as you
have Delma take out the tree trunk, while Densimo and Darc go to the upper
right corner of the battlefield to bust open those two boxes.  You'll get
a decent amount of loot for your troubles.
=== End Battle ===
With that out of the way, watch Darc's reputation grow, then go to the
entrance to regain your party.  Use the Reiki leaf on someone (either
Darc or Delma, but NOT Densimo) then leave.  If you want my recommendation,
use the leaf on Delma to give her poor defense a boost so she can be a
front-liner too.  I used it on Darc, but then I tend to favor the main
character.  Once you're ready, head back to Orcoth.
There's not much to do once you arrive.  You'll see a brief cutscene in
which Densimo will offer his help on Darc's behalf, then you're free to
heal and shop.  I'd recommend selling some of the loot you got at the
abyss to increase your bankroll, then try to get yourself some good herbs
(and naturally some regular herbs).  Once you're done, go to the Varam
Barrens on the world map.
Upon arrival, you'll see Geedo decided to step out for a bit.  Watch the
cutscene, and prepare for battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 8 - Hostage Negotiations
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 8
Delma - 6
Densimo - 7
You remember the Wyvern creatures, right?  Well, now you have to deal
with four of them.  Feel free to scoff if you want.  They have no ranged
attacks, so use magic to soften them up before moving in for the kill.
They do have some powerful physical attacks, so don't let Delma get
cornered by a group of them.  Don't bother busting open the tree trunks,
there's nothing inside.  Take the wyverns one at a time with your entire
group, and they should fall easily.
=== End Battle ===
Watch the lengthy and somewhat brutal cutscene, then leave the area.
You should now go to the church, but first level up if Darc is any lower
than level 8.  Getting to level 9 or 10 is probably a good idea.  If you
used the Reiki leaf on him, you'll be slightly better off in the upcoming
battle.  Go to Orcoth before heading to the church to save, heal, and
restore your spirit stones.  Afterwards, hit the church.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 9 - Revenge Served Cold
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 9
Sorry, but this battle requires I spoil some things.  By the time you
read this, though, you should've seen the cutscene already and know
what's coming.
Before you start this battle, go into Darc's skills menu and learn his
Sword of Awakening, along with Steal.  If you have enough SP left, learn
Raise Spirits.  If you leveled up to 9 and didn't spend any SP before now,
you should have enough for all three, or bare minimum, for the Sword and
Steal skills.  Now for the combat itself.  Move away from the stairs as
much as you can.  This will keep the Drakyr from jumping you.  Densimo will
definitely come after you, while Geedo may or may not join him.  If you
moved to the very bottom left corner, you should be able to get away with
killing Densimo before Geedo arrives.  Once you're done, go back to the
stairs to lure in Geedo and kill her.  Use your new Claws of Rage and
physical attacks, then go for the Drakyr.  Use the Sword of Awakening if
you want, but they're just Drakyr, after all.  After you kill Densimo and
Geedo, you've essentially won, so just mop up.
=== End Battle ===
This is the end of the chapter, so just watch the cutscene.  Does anyone
else get the feeling Darc will become less than a moral soul?  Anyway,
save or don't when given the opportunity, and continue on.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4c. Chapter 2:  Kharg's Story - Setting Out
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Watch the cutscene and wince at Kharg's horrible speech.  When you regain
control, talk to Nafia or Duncan (doesn't matter).  Go down the steps when
they're done talking and converse with Paulette and Maru.  When they're
done wasting your time, go into town.  Rather than go straight to Nafia,
hit the pub and talk to the nutcase on the second floor.  Listen to his
story and accept his quest (or don't, it's optional).  When you're ready,
go to Kharg's house and talk to Nafia.
When all the cutscenes are done, go to the pub and reclaim Maru into your
party.  Go inside the pub and talk to Duncan to be assigned another task
(this one is eventually required, so accept it now).  Then go to the main
gate to have Paulette join you and send you to your next employer: Banjo.
Talk to him to get another job (which is also mandatory) then leave town.
Depending on which quest you want to do first, you should leave via either
the main gate or the castle ruins.  I like to do optional quests first, so
leave via the castle ruins.
I'd recommend leveling up a little, since Paulette will probably be fairly
weak compared to your other party members.  This also has the added benefit
of padding your wallet so you can buy those ever-elusive accessories and
weapons (along with herbs and other items) When you're ready, go to the
Edge of a Sea of Trees if you plan on doing the strange guy's sidequest.
Otherwise, go straight to Plumb Canyon.
If you're doing the optional sidequest, go to the right side of the map
and check the smaller rock there.  You'll send yourself straight into
battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Optional Battle - Sidequesty Goodness
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 7
Paulette - 6
Maru - 6
Remember those squirrels from the beginning of the game?  They're back,
and they brought their black cousins (as in literally black).  They end
up grouping themselves often, so use that to your advantage.  A single
special move will waste any of them (though the Kuskles might survive)
though I'd recommend sticking with normal attacks.  Don't rush in or
they'll surround and kick your ass.  Even the regular squirrels hit
pretty hard, so take them on no more than two at a time if you can.
=== End Battle ===
There's nothing else to do here, so leave and go back to Yewbell (unless
you opted to skip the sidequest, in which case go to the next battle).
Give the old pot to that nut job in the pub to gain a little insight into
the spirits, then he'll let you keep the pot (gee, thanks).  Actually,
you'll gain a stone holder, which increases the maximum amount of spirit
stones you can hold.  Put it on whoever you want, it doesn't really
matter.  Since we're right next to it, hit Scrappe Plateau next (again,
unless you didn't do the sidequest, in which case skip ahead).
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 10 - The Squirrels Were Harder
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 8
Paulette - 7
Maru - 7
Ohh, so easy!  First off, have Maru use his Venom Arrow technique on one
of the bandits so it strikes three of them.  This should weaken two (and
hit the boss) so you can kill half of them fairly quickly.  Take out the
boss first in order to get his loot, then finish off the rest.  This one's
a cakewalk, so take it at your leisure.
=== End Battle ===
Head back to Yewbell's pub to finish up this little mini-quest.  When you're
done watching the cutscenes, go to Plumb Canyon for your last mission.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 11 - Attack of the...Shellfish?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 8
Paulette - 7
Maru - 8
There's a reason I listed this one last.  You're outnumbered nearly 4-1
in this fight, so you have to be extra-careful (and hopefully powerful).
The wooden box has a nice item, but if you don't feel safe wasting turns
on it, don't bother.  Have Maru shoot one of the gunpowder barrels to
kill one of the shells in a single turn.  Hopefully the shells will stay
close to the other barrel so you can get two.  Otherwise just take it
slow and heal when necessary.  If you're poisoned, use Maru's Antidote
Treatment skill or the appropriate curative item.  Realistically, this
battle isn't horribly difficult, especially if you're at my levels.  It
is fairly challenging if you go here straight at the beginning of the
chapter, though.
=== End Battle ===
When the short scene's over, examine the blue machine to get rid of the
oil, then leave the area and return to Yewbell.  Take a moment to level
up if you want, then talk to Zed inside the bar.  You'll be given a new
mission, so heal, save, and buy what you need.  By this time you should
have enough spare cash for a coating to put on someone's weapon (either
Paulette or Maru, since Kharg's strong without one) along with an
Aiming Device for Maru.  Leave Yewbell when you're ready.  Make sure
everyone is at level 9, bare minimum.  10 wouldn't be a bad idea.  You're
about to fight three battles in a row with no chance to save, so you
really don't want to lose.
Dragon Bone Valley is way the hell out of the way, so you'll likely
run into a few random battles before you arrive.  Run if you'd rather
not fight at the moment, but get to the valley eventually.  Watch the
cutscene when you arrive, then walk up and examine the body.  You'll
be treated to a brief cutscene with voice work, then more text boxes.
Once it's over, it's time for another battle with your old buddies,
the Drakyr.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 12 - I Hate Defense Missions
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 10
Paulette - 9
Maru - 9
I really hate defense missions.  Lilia can't take much punishment, so
stick by her to distract the Drakyr, and kill them all as fast as you can.
Pull out all the stops for this one, just because keeping Lilia alive is
a real pain.  You should know how to deal with Drakyr by now, so have at it.
Use every skill in your inventory, and if Lilia takes damage, have someone
heal her right away.
=== End Battle ===
You'll automatically return to the world map.  Head towards Yewbell, and
don't be surprised if you're stopped on the way in Isulo Forest.  Watch
the scene, then run across the bridge for another scene.  After it ends,
you'll gain an ally and run headfirst into battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 13 - Snipers?  In a Medieval Setting?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 10
Paulette - 9
Maru - 9
Ganz - 9
A word on your new party member: he's a tank.  Give him a couple herbs,
and he'll fight all day long.  This battle requires you to destroy the
post holding up the bridge, otherwise you'll have to start over.  Kill
the attack dogs first, I cannot stress that enough.  Their attacks do
tons of damage, so make sure they die first.  Once they're gone, pick
off the remaining enemies, but make damn sure you destroy that post.
After it's down, kill the commander to pick up the very expensive
Amethyst Coating item.  DO NOT kill the commander before destroying
the bridge post, otherwise the battle will restart.
===End Battle==
Talk to your party, then talk to Ganz.  Ask him about his past (if you
want) then leave.  He'll be back.  Make sure to heal up before you leave.
You'll have another battle at the Scrappe Plateau.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 14 - Now they have Hovercraft?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 11
Paulette - 10
Maru - 10
By this time you should have Paulette's Stinging Rain.  If not, you should
get it soon.  Once again, handle the attack dogs first.  There's no bridge
to destroy, so take out the commander and take his Broken Sword as soon as
possible.  It's worth a whopping 1200 gold at the shops, so definitely get
it.  Attack and use techs at your disposal.  The metal drums both have
items, so snag what you can, but definitely get that Broken Sword.
=== End Battle ===
Cue another scene, along with a sexy femme scientist in a beret.  Spank me!
She's not a good guy, though.  Oh well...anyway, watch the scene and check
out Kharg's response to Tatjana's orders for the heroes.  Before leaving,
check Kharg's skills.  He can use magic now, and if you haven't already
spent your skill points, you should have enough for both spells (or at
least Wind Slasher).  When you're through, go to Yewbell at last!
SAVE!  Don't bother healing or filling up your spirit stones yet, as
Paulette isn't in the party.  Sell off the Broken Sword and use the cash
to buy Good Herbs and some regular ones, plus some other stuff you might
need.  By now you should be able to afford an Amethyst Coating for
everyone, not including the one you got from the previous fights.  When
you're ready, go and talk to Nafia in Kharg's house for a scene.  On a
side note, how the hell does Kharg's ponytail float like that?!
When the lengthy scene is finished, leave the house and go to the castle
ruins for a sample of Lilia's musical talent with the coolest instrument
ever.  Run up to her to trigger another lengthy scene, then go back to
Kharg's house and talk to Nafia when you're able.  The next morning, go
to the front door and talk to your buddies, then leave.  Next stop, back
to Dragon Bone Valley.  But first, talk to Zed.  Ask about repairing the
airship, then the control parts.  First thing's first, we gotta loot that
old airship over at Scrappe Plateau.
Unfortunately, as you may have figured out the first time you went there,
the airship and control parts are out of reach.  You need to provide power
to the control panel in order to reach the control parts.  Now, you could
ask around Yewbell and one of the residents would provide you a clue as
to where to go, but this is a FAQ and walkthrough, is it not?  Go to
Plumb Canyon.
No battles this time.  Lucky!  The battery you seek is near the big blue
machine you manipulated to get rid of the shellfish.  Take it, then go
back to Scrappe Plateau.  Remember, you have to put the battery in its
proper place before working the controls.  Simply turn the lever and
grab the now-accessible control parts.  Return to Yewbell and retrieve
Lilia, then head to Dragon Bone Valley at last.
Naturally, it's not that easy.  You'll be stopped automatically in Isulo
Forest.  The bridge is fixed, so go across and continue on.  At the
valley, Ganz will be there to help you with this airship dealy.  Told
you he'd be back.  After the scene, you'll be on the bridge (I assume)
of the airship.  Save if you want, then take advantage of the free
healing (the door that isn't the exit).  Talk to Ganz and tell him
you're ready (assuming you are ready).  For whatever reason, Nafia will
show up after the cutscene.  Go out and talk to her, then speak with
Ganz again to get moving.  Do what he says and check the green thing
Paulette's standing in front of, then head for Aldrow.  Watch the really
ugly airship take off, then talk to your party and Lilia for a cutscene.
I won't spoil anything, but I will say it seems like airships are ugly
the world over.  When you regain control, save and leave the ship.
Immediately you'll be welcomed to the area by some Orcon idiots.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 15 - Dumbest.  Orcons.  Ever.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 12
Paulette - 11
Maru - 11
Ganz - 9
Try to let Ganz handle most of them, as he'll probably have the lowest
level in your party.  This battle is incredibly easy, trust me.  These
guys couldn't pose a threat even if they had twice their numbers.
=== End Battle ===
Take advantage of your airship's amenities and heal/save before setting
out.  Head south and left as much as you can to get to the next screen and
yet another battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 16 - Don't They Ever Give Up?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 12
Paulette - 11
Maru - 11
Ganz - 10
Fairly standard stuff after your three-battles-in-a-row stunt earlier,
except you're outnumbered 2-1 with fairly powerful enemies.  Split your
party in half to deal with the enemies on two fronts.  Use whoever you
want on either front, but try to send Ganz against as many enemies as
possible to raise his levels.  Don't forget to heal if you take too many
hits.
=== End Battle ===
Go back to the airship to heal and save.  This time go to the right and
south, and you'll eventually run into more Dilzweld soldiers.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 17 - I Guess Not.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Kharg - 12
Paulette - 12
Maru - 11
Ganz - 11
Nothing new, to tell the truth.  The only difference is the presence of
a commander and less grunts.  Kill the commander first (or make sure you
don't kill him last) in order to pick up his Amethyst Coating.  Other
than that, you're probably powerful enough to do this one by the numbers.
=== End Battle ===
You'll be thrust into a pretty cool cutscene and be introduced to one weird
gunslinger.  When it's all over, you'll be sent to the world map.  Take the
left path to get to the 'secret' hideout.  Talk to the guy on the bridge
and pick either password (both have the same result) then go down into the
hold of the ship.  Talk to Samson, then save and leave when the scene's
done.  Just go straight to Cathena on the world map.  No random battles
necessary.
You'll like Cathena.  The accessories are a step up from the ones you have
currently, so upgrade if you have the cash.  Go for the armbands first,
since defense is always welcome.  The only downside is healing here is
quadruple what you paid in Ragnoth.  The building to the northwest of the
healing girl is your destination.  Talk to the guard to enter.  Fool around
inside if you want, but eventually go through the big archway north of the
elevator on the first floor.
This is a chapter-ending cutscene, so if you wanted to do other stuff before
going through the archway, you'll have to wait till chapter 3.  Anyway,
watch the very lifelike model of government the World Alliance has, then
save when prompted.  We're finally going back to Darc and gang!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4d. Chapter 2:  Darc's Story - Ambition
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You'll be treated to a sparring match between two nobody Orcons when the
chapter starts.  After the cutscene ends, leave the arena and hit the shops.
The guy's got new stuff for you, so buy what you want.  I'd focus on defense
before getting the coatings.  When you're ready, go to the dungeon, which
is located near the Deimos guard (who is in turn near the stairs leading
into town).  Talk with Delma, then leave Orcoth and go to the church.
Once there, inspect the Firble nest for a short cutscene.  Leave, and
return to Orcoth.  Go to the Arena for a scene, and a battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 18 - One on One?  No Contest!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 10
Go straight for him and use Wind Slasher to start.  He'll likely use
Heated Soul first round to make himself stronger.  If you feel confident,
use the second round to run up and steal from him (assuming you have the
skill) then run as far away as possible and use Wind Slasher.  His regular
attack is exceptional with Heated Soul in effect, so you don't want to
fight head-on, especially considering this guy has better defense than you.
Just make sure to start the battle with a lot of herbs and you'll survive.
=== End Battle ===
Watch the cutscene and gain a party member.  Leave the arena, then talk
to Zugalo at the dungeon.  Go down and talk to Delma to get her back into
your party.  Unfortunately, she's now your weakest member.  Equip the
Blood Anklet on her and buy her a Leather Armband so her defense isn't so
poor.  Leave, but talk with the green Deimos near the entrance before you
do.  You might want to level up before going to your next destination,
Asheeda forest.  In fact, I recommend it.  Anyway, once you get there,
it's battle time.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 19 - These Guys Just Don't Learn...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 10
Delma - 8
Volk - 10
You're outnumbered...just barely.  These guys are simple, but don't let
Delma go up against one by herself.  She's still weaker than the others,
and has poor defense to boot.  Just take them out with regular attacks.
Finish off the commander before the others for a First Aid Kit.
=== End Battle ===
Go to the Big Owl.  You should know where it is by now.  You'll run into
more soldiers when you get there.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 20 - Deja Vu...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 11
Delma - 8
Volk - 11
Pretty much the same battle.  Do the same as before.  Kill the commander
to get a Stone Coating.  Nothing much to say here...
=== End Battle ===
Unfortunately you can't use the airship to heal.  The next battle is down
and to the right, familiarly enough.  Watch the cutscene, then fight.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 21 - What is it About a Woman in a Lab Coat?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 11
Delma - 9
Volk - 11
First thing's first: Tatjana has two items: one she drops, and one you
can steal.  You can't get both.  If this is your first time through the
game, let her drop the Gorgeous Ring, which gives you double the gold
dropped.  If you kill Tatjana first and equip the ring before killing
the commander, he'll drop a whopping amount of gold!  Don't bunch up
your characters, and go in swinging.  If Delma has her Fire Storm spell,
use it liberally when the enemy groups together.
=== End Battle ===
Tatjana will escape, naturally.  Hot girls don't die so easily.  Watch
the cutscene, then when you regain control, simply go up and right.
Another cutscene ensues, along with an event you were likely expecting.
The cutscenes will take a while, so sit back and relax.  When they're
done, exit the area and go back to Asheeda Forest to get Volk.  Then,
go back to Orcoth.
Delma will get what's coming to her...in a way.  Wait for the scenes to
end, then leave the arena.  Another cutscene ensues, then you're free to
heal and hit the shops.  There's some new stuff to buy, so use your new
bankroll to get some weapons and armor, as well as replenish any herbs
you may have used.  Go to the dungeon and talk to Lilia, then leave when
you're able.  You'll speak with your party, then you're off to find a
way off the continent.  Shades of Kharg...
Anyway, first leave Orcoth and go to the church.  Visit your newly-hatched
Firble, then leave to talk to Gorma.  He's in the big train car in the south
part of Orcoth if you forgot.  Watch the cutscene, then ask about all the
stuff you need to know about raising Pyrons.  You should know that Geedo
has one of the ingredients we need: the phoenix blood.  So let's go get it.
That chest Geedo had is now open, so snag the phoenix blood and watch this
new spirit show up to automatically hand you a sidequest.  When it's all
over, leave and go to Tindalos Woods for the next item, a Rebound fruit.
Now, you basically have to fight random battles against the Crimson Rhokes
until you get it.  I got one on my first try, but I'm lucky like that.
You might have to fight a battle or two before you get it.  Also, the Rhokes
do not (I repeat, do not) drop the Rebound fruit as an item.  After the
screen showing the experience and skill points you got, you will receive
a message saying you acquired the fruit (if you got it, that is).
Go to the church to unload your items, then return to Orcoth to see Gorma.
Unfortunately, he's out.  Go to the dungeon for a cutscene of Lilia and
that badass harp thingy.  Too bad Darc the philistine puts a stop to it...
Wait for the cutscene to end, talk to Lilia, then leave.  Talk to the
merchant Quorup, who has the Fire Fragment you need.  Too bad he's charging
you an arm and a leg for it.  Fork over the 500G necessary, or if you don't
have it, go out and fight random battles till you do.  Go back to the
church when you're ready.  Feed the Firble, then return to Orcoth.
Okay, someone threw a party when we weren't looking.  Talk to the Quorup
merchant to figure out what went down, then go to the arena.  Wait for
the cutscene to end, then buy all the items and/or weapons you need, then
save and leave.  You're going to the Varam Barrens.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Battle 22 - Good Lord, That's Ugly!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Levels:
Darc - 12
Delma - 11
Volk - 12
Start off by shredding the breakables, as there's some really good stuff
in the boxes.  Use Delma to cast Speed Up as soon as possible, and have
Volk cast Heated Soul so you can take out the minor enemies the Argewalt
will spawn.  Make damn sure to steal from the Argewalt, because it holds
an item to increase your max HP.  Take out the small fry and use Sword of
Awakening (after stealing from it) on the Argewalt.  Try to be quick about
this battle, otherwise you'll have to deal with a ton of those smaller
monsters.  They're not that strong, but there will be a lot of them in no
time flat.  The Witch Plants might poison you, in which case use Refresh
to get yourself back up to speed.  You just need to kill the Argewalt to
win, so once you steal from it, take it out.
=== End Battle ===
Watch the ugly airship take off, along with a cutscene.  You'll gain a
party member out of that ugly head that was inside the Argewalt.  Leave
and go to Orcoth.  Talk to Gorma for a cutscene.  Go to the church for
another cutscene, then go to the spot where you flew around with Delma
last chapter.  You'll be transported to another continent.
Despite the urgency of Camellia's words, go to Rueloon first.  They've
got new weapons and armor that'll help a lot.  Fight around if you don't
have enough, and use that Gorgeous Ring to boost the money you get.  The
ring only doubles the money when the character wearing the ring kills the
monster, so remember that.  I put it on Darc, since he makes the most
kills.
Once in Rueloon, go nuts.  Sell off those old stone coatings and get
Amethyst ones.  Before you do, though, buy new weapons for Darc and Delma.