Isembard seems to have a message for you from Thancred.
Isembard: I am well glad I reserved that inn room for Sister Ourcen. It seems she received greater injuries from her attackers than she initially let on. Thankfully, she is expected to make a full recovery. Isembard: But now, on to the matter at hand. Thancred came looking for you once more. He left word that he will be waiting at the Amalj’aa encampment to the southeast. I pray the two of you are able to uncover some evidence regarding these disappearances.
Thancred: Ah, there you are, Meredith. So good of you to come! Thancred: Indeed, I’ve heard all about good Sister Ourcen. Isembard said her wounds were serious. It would seem my suspicions about the poor rose were misplaced. Thancred: But false though they were, perhaps my suspicions were not entirely without merit. Whilst following Sister Ourcen near the Golden Bazaar, a band of Amalj’aa caught my eye. Thancred: I tracked them as far as this encampment, but… Well, let us say that I would much prefer to keep my distance and remain here. This, of course, brings me to why I requested you, dear Meredith. Would you be so kind as to take a look inside?
Thancred: Well? Did anything tickle your fancy? Thancred: This leaflet… “See the wealth of Nald to the hands of your children.” It looks to be some sort of assembly to provide the poor with work. Thancred: The lettering, though… Atrocious, is it not? And these bits about Nald’thal seem somewhat…less than studied. I find it hard to believe one among the Order penned this. Thancred: Pray take this to the inn at Camp Drybone. Let us see what Sister Ourcen makes of it.
Ourcen: My savior comes again. To what do I owe the honor this day? Ourcen: What is this? Blasphemous… These are not our teachings at all! This was not made by any true brother or sister of the Order─of that, I can assure you. Ourcen: Come to think of it, weeks ago, the church was plagued by missing garments. Could someone be posing as a priest of the Order to deceive the people?
Thancred: The plot thickens, Meredith! Our culprit pretends to be a priest to lend credence to his deception. There is no doubt an irony in there somewhere. Thancred: But I suspect we have a worthy adversary on our hands. I shall consider how best to handle this. For now, tell Isembard what we have learned here.
Isembard: Posing as a priest!? To think… Isembard: These troubling notions aside, it is gratifying to finally be able to move this investigation forward. Thank you once again, Meredith. I shall keep my ears and eyes open─now more than ever.
Isembard is concerned about the questions surrounding Sister Ourcen’s integrity.
Isembard: Sister Ourcen… It cannot be. Though, she is wont to travel to the Golden Bazaar on her own, and it is not uncommon to see her speaking to the children. But…no. It could not be she…could it? Isembard: Hmmm… (sigh) I grow weary of these suspicions. I know there is one child in particular that she is fond of. Pray seek out the boy, Meredith, and see if you cannot glean something from him about Ourcen’s activities.
Uncombed Urchin: Please help! Sister Ourcen went out all on her own and hasn’t come back! Uncombed Urchin: She always reads to me right here, about Thal and the Order and the other side. I told her I lost my shiny thing and she went looking for it. But what if the monsters outside hurt her? Please find her!
Ourcen: You… You are the one from the church. Thank goodness you arrived when you did. It seems my gratitude is yours yet again. Ourcen: You spoke with the child? Yes, well, I was able to find his lost trinket. It is a ring given him by his mother before she passed. I will see it safely back to him.
Isembard: Sister Ourcen was attacked outside the Golden Bazaar? Gods forfend… I will secure a room at the inn for her should she require any rest. Isembard: Searching for the mementos of orphans? And risking her own well-being in the doing, no less? Certainly not the dastardly deeds Thancred would have us believe.
Isembard would like you to learn what you can from the clergy.
Isembard: If we would know what the commonfolk speak of to their gods, we’ve no better place to ask than at the Church of Saint Adama Landama. It is a small and humble church, found to the northwest of here. Isembard: And so long as you are headed there…might I ask you to deliver this embalmed corpse? A morbid request, I grant you, but it must be borne to burial, and I trust none more than you to see it done. Isembard: Seek out a man named Marques─he tends the graves of the lichyard. He will tell you where the body is to be interred.
Marques: I am Marques, yes. A body? Of course… There…there have been…so many bodies of late… Marques: I… I apologize, miss. If you seek a place of burial, then there is an empty grave atop the ridge. Take the path and lay him to rest there.
Marques: May they all walk in Thal’s realm… …What? Missing people? I…I’m afraid I cannot help you. Marques: But maybe Sister Ourcen can. She has been kind to me. Everyone…everyone has been so kind. Marques: I don’t know why, though. I… Pardon me. You will find Sister Ourcen within the church walls.
Ourcen: I hear you have done us the service of burying a fallen soul. Please accept our gratitude, and extend it to Isembard when next you see him. Ourcen: Hm? You seek knowledge of missing Drybone inhabitants? It is true I am closer to the people than any other of the Order. I confide in them, and they in me. When they wish to speak to their keeper, Thal, I am the medium through which they do. Ourcen: Should I learn anything pertinent, I will be sure to share the information with you. (sigh) I only wish Marques would be more helpful in the matter. I pray he did nothing to offend. He saw…terrible things during the Calamity… His scars run deep. Indeed, he seems to now prefer the company of the dead over the living. Ourcen: While tragic, I fear such behavior ill befits the church. I received word not long ago that one of our recent visitors─a man called Thancred, I believe─took offense at his conduct. I must have words with Marques, and soon.
Isembard: Thank you, Meredith. A burial is no easy thing─even when the departed is a stranger. Were you able to learn aught of the missing commonfolk? Thancred: You’ve been keeping yourself rather busy of late, haven’t you, Meredith? Thancred: A pleasure, my dear Isembard. The name is Thancred, and I share a passion with you and our mutual friend here for learning what has become of these missing persons and why. Thancred: I, too, spoke with Ungust─more times than I care to count. There seems to be some truth to this notion of the commonfolk speaking their secrets only to those in service to the gods. Thancred: Prostration, prayer, penance. Abject deeds done behind closed doors, away from prying eyes. Who better to take the pious unawares than she who takes confession─the good Sister Ourcen herself? Isembard: Ourcen!? She wouldn’t… She couldn’t! Thancred: Even the most beautiful roses have thorns, my friend. And you would be wise to keep an eye to this rose. Thancred: Still, the lichkeeper Marques… I’d swear to the Twelve I’ve seen that face elsewhere before…
Isembard aims to turn his investigation to the commonfolk.
Isembard: What say we turn an eye to the commonfolk themselves? It may be among them that we find the reasons for these vanishings, Twelve forbid it be so. Isembard: There is a merchant by the name of Ungust who was born here in Drybone and grew up in the Golden Bazaar. A…rough character, but he knows the people here better than anyone else. Isembard: I’d wager he’s at the inn, quaffing away the day’s earnings. Here, I’ll write a note for you to show him, else he’s not like to speak to you.
Ungust: (belch) Well, gods be damned! You’re that bloody adventurer who threatened me back in Ul’dah! What in the seven hells do you want with me now!? Ungust: “Dear friend… (belch) Missing people… Please help… (hiccup) Yours, Isembard.” Ungust: Folk around here are as wary as they come. They’ll turn tail and run if you so much as pass wind nearby. Played them all for fools and coaxed some hard labor out of them, I did. Ungust: If anything, they’re even more timid than before, what with all the disappearances. You can go talk to ’em yourself if you don’t believe me.
Hungry Beggar: P-Please, miss, just leave me be… Devious Derelict: I’ve nothing to say but this: Thal take who─or whatever’s been feeding off us low folk. Petrified Pauper: Wh-What do you want from me!? I d-don’t know anything, I swear! Please don’t kill me!
Ungust: Just as I told you, wasn’t it? The whole lot of them are terrified. (hiccup) Ungust: There’s been talk of folk getting abducted, but if you ask me, they simply up and moved on to a better place. This place isn’t exactly Costa del Sol, if you know what I’m saying.
Isembard: Welcome back, Meredith. Have you learned aught of import? Isembard: I see… I suppose I should have expected as much from Ungust. Well, another thought occurred to me in your absence. The commonfolk are nothing if not fervent in their religious beliefs. Perhaps if they speak freely to their gods, then the clergy may know something of use.
Isembard of Camp Drybone is seeking help to solve a mystery of missing persons.
Isembard: Let us get right to it, then. Minfilia names the Amalj’aa culprits in all this. You would do well to investigate them, first. Isembard: Much harm has been levied on these lands by Amalj’aa hands. The Flames burn where they might, but their light cannot stay the darkness in all places at all times. Isembard: There have been brutal murders of callers at the Church of Saint Adama Landama─innocents wishing no more than to pay their respects to the dead. Isembard: The poor souls deserve a proper burial. I would see to the deed before mongrels catch their scent, but I know not if the Amalj’aa still linger. Isembard: Would you secure their remains for me, friend? You will find them on the eastern road. Isembard: Twelve willing, you may even come to learn something of what the Amalj’aa seek in this area.
Isembard: It is good to see you returned. Were you able to secure the remains of our fallen? Isembard: With the bodies given back proper to the earth, the souls will find their way across to the other side. You have done a noble deed this day. I thank you. Isembard: Now, then, what of the Amalj’aa? Did you see any? Surely such massive monstrosities as they cannot conceal their presence, much less take their quarry unawares. Isembard: Ah, so there were Amalj’aa remaining, after all… I feared as much. Their part in the lowborn disappearing is all but confirmed. But I sense there is more to this than meets the eye. Isembard: The occasional Amalj’aa raiding party would not account for people going missing in these kinds of numbers. The total is too great, and the questions too many. It would not surprise me in the least to learn of another hand in this. Isembard: But whose? Countless travelers pass through Drybone every day. And even if it were one among them, how would we best discover who may be implicit in these vanishings?
Minfilia is waiting to hear whether or not you will pledge your support to the Scions of the Seventh Dawn.
Minfilia: We Scions have but one objective: to safeguard the future of Eorzea. Among our gravest concerns are the godlike beings known as the primals. Long have we striven to find a lasting solution to the threat they pose. Minfilia: I know not what it is you desire for yourself, nor what it was that first brought you to Eorzea, but I firmly believe that the power we possess was given to us for a purpose. Pray consider this when you give me your answer, Meredith. Minfilia: I take it you will help us. Minfilia: Wonderful! I knew you wouldn’t let us down! Minfilia: But come, I would introduce you to your friends in the order. Minfilia: Tell me, does the name Sharlayan ring any bells? Minfilia: It used to be one of Eorzea’s six city-states, and was situated in the northwest of Aldenard. Minfilia: The Sharlayans were the keepers of wisdom both old and new. Their mastery over magic and aether was unsurpassed, and even the Garleans knew to fear them. Minfilia: Among their number, there were a noble few who devoted their lives to safeguarding the future of Eorzea. Minfilia: When the realm began its descent into chaos, and their countrymen fled for the motherland, they alone chose to remain here. These noble men and women were called the Archons. Minfilia: Those same brave souls stand before you now. Minfilia: The masked woman is Yda, and beside her is Papalymo. The two are charged with surveying the Twelveswood. Yda: Hello there! Papalymo: Well come! Yda: Okay, my turn to introduce someone! That there is Thancred! Papalymo: He is our man here in Ul’dah, jewel of the desert. Thancred: Welcome to the team! Thancred: If I may, the lovely maiden beside me is named Y’shtola. Limsa Lominsa has the pleasure of being under her care. Y’shtola: Greetings. Y’shtola: I have been expecting you. Y’shtola: Last but not least is Urianger, who presides over all affairs within these halls. Pray seek him out whenever you have questions. Urianger: Dawn may banish even the darkest night… Urianger: …The words of a dear friend. I am glad of our meeting. Y’shtola: At the Battle of Carteneau, our leader was taken from us. But we did not stray from our purpose. Y’shtola: We sought out Minfilia and others with her talent, and together established the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. Minfilia: Along with the Archons, those blessed with the Echo play a pivotal role in our endeavor to forge a brighter tomorrow for the realm. Minfilia: Oh, I should also introduce you to Tataru, our clerk. She ensures that everything runs smoothly. Tataru: Pleased to make your acquaintance! Minfilia: In time, I hope you will come to think of us as family. Minfilia: But without further ado… Minfilia: I would assign you your first task. Minfilia: Urianger. Have the documents arrived from the Students of Baldesion? Urianger: Aye, my lady, they arrived but recently. Minfilia: We have received a request for aid from the Immortal Flames. Minfilia: Thancred, would you do the honors? Thancred: It would be my pleasure. Thancred: Some days ago, a crystal caravan registered to Amajina & Sons Mineral Concern was waylaid and divested of its cargo. Thancred: But there is more. Within a bell of the robbery, several people were reported missing from the shantytown outside the city. Minfilia: At a glance, one would assume the involvement of bandits, kidnappers, and coincidence. Minfilia: Such crimes are hardly uncommon, and the Immortal Flames deal with their like almost every day. Minfilia: However, this time we have reason to believe that a primal is involved. Thancred: Aye, the evidence left behind implicates the Amalj’aa, who are known worshipers of Ifrit. Thancred: If we then consider the objects that were taken, there is no room left for doubt─the crimes were committed in the name of a primal. Minfilia: That you may better understand the nature of our struggle with the primals, I would have you play the leading role in this investigation. Minfilia: You have my thanks. Minfilia: If there is aught you wish to know, I recommend you speak with Thancred. He is well versed in the affairs of Ul’dah. Thancred: Ever at your service, fair lady!
Thancred: Ready to begin, are we? That’s the spirit! Thancred: So then, your mission is to investigate a crystal robbery and a spate of abductions. Thancred: …Crimes which we believe to be connected. Assuming we are correct, it is like that any discoveries we make in relation to one will further our understanding of the other. Thancred: Now, since the attack on their caravan, our friends at Amajina & Sons Mineral Concern have doubled security over all their shipments. Thancred: In light of this, it is my judgment that the abductions should be our priority. Thancred: According to our preliminary findings, the majority of the missing were last seen in the vicinity of Camp Drybone, so that would seem a fine place to begin. Thancred: A fellow by the name of Isembard serves as the camp’s de facto leader. Pay him a visit, and see that he gives us his full cooperation.
Isembard: Aye, I’m Isembard. Here to search for the missing folk, I take it? Isembard: Minfilia sent word that an adventurer fitting your description would be along. Isembard: She also warned us to be wary of the Amalj’aa. It seems we know who the culprits are, at the very least. Isembard: Now, I bear no official title at this camp, but the people here have come to look to me for leadership. You have my word that I’ll do all I can to help see the victims safely returned.
Momodi is ready to tell you what she knows about the Scions of the Seventh Dawn.
Momodi: So you want to know more, then, do you? Well, ain’t that a surprise… I swear, if I painted “CERTAIN DEATH” on one door and “LIMITLESS WEALTH” on another, nine out of ten adventurers would go through the first, and the other bloke wouldn’t be able to choose, on account of bein’ Ul’dahn. Anyway, don’t say I didn’t warn you. Momodi: First of all, if you’re wonderin’ whether you can trust these “Scions of the Seventh Dawn,” you can. They’re good people who’ve made it their mission to solve some of Eorzea’s most pressin’ problems. ‘Course, that ain’t no small task, and so they’re always lookin’ for dependable individuals to join ’em─individuals like you, Meredith. Momodi: Now, I’ve been given leave to tell you where to find the Scions, but you must promise to keep this information to yourself. As you can probably imagine, it’s somethin’ Eorzea’s enemies would very much like to know. Momodi: The Scions are headquartered in Vesper Bay, out in western Thanalan. The place you’re lookin’ for is called the Wakin’ Sands. Give your name to whoever’s at the entrance, and you’ll be let in. Momodi: You’re a woman in demand, Meredith, and the days ahead promise to be busy, but I hope you won’t forget about them as helped make you into the adventurer you are. Drop in and tell ’em how you’re farin’ from time to time, you hear? Right, well, I’ve said my piece. Off you go.
Tataru: Deep in the desert of my heart,♪ Tataru: A lonely flower blooms…♪ Tataru: Yearning for the heavens above♪ Tataru: To quench my thirst for you.♪ Tataru: Trololololo～lololo～♪ Tataru: Uwaaah! Tataru: (cough) Tataru: I would thank you not to sneak up on me like that! Tataru: Now, please be advised that this is private property. Unless you have pertinent business here, I must ask you to─ Tataru: Here at the behest of Y’shtola!? Tataru: My sincerest apologies! May I please have your name? Tataru: Meredith Croix…Meredith Croix… Ah, here you are. Tataru: Ahem! I bid you welcome to the Waking Sands, headquarters of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn! Tataru: My name is Tataru, and I look forward to assisting you during your time with us. Tataru: The Antecedent is within the solar. I shall let her know to expect you.
Scion of the Seventh Dawn: I take it you are Meredith Croix. Tataru sent word that you had arrived. Scion of the Seventh Dawn: Lady Minfilia has eagerly awaited your coming. This way, if you please.
???: So you are the adventurer of whom I’ve heard so much. Minfilia: Well met, friend. My name is Minfilia, and I lead the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. Minfilia: I have awaited your coming. Minfilia: Please, be at ease. You are among friends here. Minfilia: No doubt you’re ripe to burst with questions, but have patience─all will be revealed in time. Minfilia: First, let me begin by telling you who we are and what we do. Minfilia: We are the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, an order that transcends political boundaries. Our single objective is the preservation of the future of Eorzea. Minfilia: Among our gravest concerns are the godlike beings known as the primals. Minfilia: Their existence is a bane upon Eorzea─nay, the world at large, and we have striven to find a lasting solution to the threat they pose. Minfilia: Our order is home to a number of individuals who, like you, possess a rare and special talent. Minfilia: This talent takes various forms, but one holds particular interest for us. Minfilia: Tell me, have you ever experienced a sudden, inexplicable loss of consciousness? Minfilia: Have you ever had the sensation of being pulled away from reality? Felt as though you were hovering in space, a mind without a body? Minfilia: All these things are the manifestations of your talent. Yours is the power to transcend the boundaries of the soul─a power known as the Echo. Minfilia: The Echo allows you to pass through the walls of a man’s soul, and hear the resonations of his past. Minfilia: You will be there in his memories, and see things as he saw them. You may even interact with that which you see, though you cannot change the outcome of events. Minfilia: For another blessing, the Echo will enable you to know a man’s mind even if you cannot comprehend his words. Minfilia: In short, the Echo is a truly extraordinary power. And this power is strong within you. Minfilia: It is only a shame that we cannot use it whensoever we choose. Minfilia: That’s right. I too possess the Echo. Minfilia: With that established, let us return to the subject of the primals. Minfilia: So long as they exist, the realm cannot take so much as a single step towards true peace. Minfilia: Measures must be taken─measures which transcend boundaries, be they of faction, race, language, or creed. And to do so, the Scions require the aid of those with our talent. Minfilia: Make no mistake─the Echo will be instrumental in dealing with the primal threat. Without it, we cannot hope to save the realm. Minfilia: I know not what it is you desire for yourself, nor what it was that first brought you to Eorzea. Minfilia: But I firmly believe that the power we possess was given to us for a purpose. Minfilia: Why else would the gods entrust man with a gift so extraordinary, if not to have him use it? Minfilia: And so I implore you: lend us your power. Minfilia: Naturally, your aid will not go unrewarded. We are fortunate to have a number of influential allies, and at a word from me, they will gladly afford you certain privileges that might otherwise be denied you. Minfilia: The right to employ retainers, for example. Are you familiar with them? They are individuals who may be relied upon to manage your assets and belongings on your behalf. Tataru: The papers you requested, my lady. Minfilia: Thank you, Tataru. Tataru: The pleasure is mine, my lady! Minfilia: By way of a welcoming gift, I have taken the liberty of adding your name to the retainers’ registry. As of now, you are entitled to employ the services of a retainer. Minfilia: You will need to consult a retainer vocate regarding the particulars of this arrangement, but believe me when I say that retainers will prove invaluable to you in your adventuring endeavors. Minfilia: Let this gesture serve as evidence of our commitment to do all in our power to facilitate your personal objectives. Minfilia: In return, we ask that you aid us to the fullest extent of your talents. Minfilia: A mutually beneficial relationship, I am sure you will agree, and one which serves the greater good besides. Minfilia: Well, that was a veritable lecture, was it not? Forgive me, but it is important that all concerned are aware of what is expected of them. Now you know our purpose, and what we can offer you, I invite you to consider joining us. When you have come to a decision, you may tell me without fear of censure. Minfilia: In good faith, I shall entrust you with our order’s password, which our members use to reach one another when afield. Minfilia: It is “wild rose.” Pray keep it safe.
Momodi: The petitioner ought to be arrivin’ any moment now… Papashan: Gods almighty! Another second under that sun, and I would have been set afire! A tankard of ale, if you would be so kind! Momodi: Excellent timin’, Papashan. It just so happens the adventurer who’ll be handlin’ your petition is here. Papashan: So this winsome lass is the much-lauded adventurer, is she? Marvelous, marvelous! Papashan: A pleasure to make your acquaintance, milady. I am Papashan, formerly of the Sultansworn. I thank you for agreeing to lend us your aid. Momodi: Mayhap you’d like to apprise Meredith of her mission? Papashan: Yes, of course. The petition in question was submitted by an acquaintance of mine at Amajina & Sons Mineral Concern. It relates to an unfortunate development at Copperbell Mines. Papashan: To be plain, giants have seized control of the place. Papashan: These giants are of the clan known as the hecatoncheires─fearsome creatures who were sealed within the deepest depths of the mines during the bygone Thorne Dynasty. Papashan: Alas, it seems they have managed to break through the layer of rock which served to imprison them, and now prowl the tunnels where the miners ply their trade. The creatures are justifiably angry about their treatment at the hands of our ancestors, and their presence has forced the suspension of all mining activities on the site. Momodi: It’s no wonder they’re angry. Didn’t the Thorne Dynasty come to an end over three hundred years ago? Papashan: You know your history well, milady. Papashan: The people of that age used the hecatoncheires to work their mines. By way of enchanted helms, they were able to bind the ferocious creatures to their will. But as is oft the way in such tales, these enchantments eventually failed, and the slaves rose up against their masters. Papashan: In a desperate bid to contain the unbridled fury of the hecatoncheires, our ancestors induced the collapse of the mines’ lowermost levels. So it was that the Great Giant Revolt was ended─buried beneath a hundred thousand tonzes of rock. Momodi: Well, now…that’s got me thinkin’… I seem to recall there bein’ an article about Copperbell in the Mythril Eye a fortnight or so ago. Momodi: It said the mines were bein’ reopened so as to meet the risin’ demand for buildin’ materials. Like as not, our boys dug a bit too deep and freed the giants. Momodi: Gods…to think the poor creatures are still alive an’ kickin’ after three centuries… That’s a long time to nurse a grudge. They must be seethin’… Papashan: Indeed. And that makes them a danger to us all. There will be no mining at Copperbell so long as they remain. For the sake of both peace and prosperity, they must be subdued. This is the task which we would have you undertake. Papashan: I’ll not deny that the mission will be rife with danger, but our need is great. And so I beg you: put an end to this sorry business. Papashan: Gods bless you! I feared you might have reservations, but I assure you it is for the best. Momodi: Hmmm… In case you don’t know, Copperbell Mines are in western Thanalan. Do take care, you hear? Papashan: Ah, and one last thing before you depart… An employee of Amajina & Sons is presently at the Quicksand. The fellow’s name is Painted Mesa, and he knows Copperbell Mines well. It may behoove you to seek his counsel.
Painted Mesa: Lookin’ for Painted Mesa? You found him. Painted Mesa: So you’re the adventurer who’s volunteered to deal with the mess down in Copperbell, are you? Painted Mesa: You’ve got guts, miss. I just hope you’ve got skills to go with ’em, ’cause things ain’t pretty down there. The hecatoncheires’ve left the place in a right state, and nary a week after minin’ resumed. Painted Mesa: I don’t know if you know this, but Copperbell was old when the second Ul Dynasty was still young, and it was abandoned centuries ago. If it hadn’t been for the shortage of materials needed for the rebuildin’ effort, the Concern would never have thought to reopen it. Painted Mesa: We knew full well about the giants beforehand, but the project went ahead anyway. I mean, nothin’ could possibly survive bein’ buried under a mountain’s worth of rock for three centuries, right? Wrong! Painted Mesa: Our miners dug up more than they bargained for. One swing of the pickaxe too many, and they found ’emselves in the company of giants. Unless we can subdue ’em, the nation’s glorious recovery’ll grind to a halt for want of aught to build with. Painted Mesa: The Stone Torches’re keepin’ watch over the entrance in case the giants fancy some sunlight and fresh air. One of ’em will be able to show you the way in. The hope of the nation’s restin’ on you, friend. Best of luck!
Stone Torch: There’s been an incident inside Copperbell Mines. We are here to ensure that its effects are contained, but for your own safety, I suggest you stay well away from here. Stone Torch: What? You’re the adventurer who’s volunteered to quell the hecatoncheires? Stone Torch: I didn’t think that Papashan would be able to find someone so quickly…if at all. Stone Torch: The giants are content to wreak havoc inside the mines for now, but it’s only a matter of time before they think to come outside. The sooner you see to them, the better. Make ready as best you can, and enter at will.
???: SLAVES NO MORE! FREE! FREEEEEE!
Painted Mesa: Ah, the conqueror of Copperbell returns! Painted Mesa: Thanks to you, our minin’ operations can resume, and Ul’dah will have the materials she needs to rebuild. The entire nation’s in your debt, friend. Painted Mesa: I’ll share the good tidin’s with Papashan the next time I see him. As for you, you’ll want to report to Momodi. It’ll do the woman well to see you alive and in one piece. ???: Noooooo! Obnoxious Merchant: Shut your mouth, you thieving little swine! You stole from me─don’t even think to deny it! Desperate Damsel: P-Please, sir, I didn’t steal nothin’! Desperate Damsel: I b-bought this─paid for it with me own coin! Obnoxious Merchant: What rot! You refugees are all the same─couldn’t afford maggoty mole meat, much less a choice cut of dodo! Obnoxious Merchant: I’m going to say it one more time: give back what you stole, or I’ll make you wish you’d never set foot in this town! Obnoxious Merchant: By rights, I should turn you over to the Brass Blades, you know─help keep the streets safe for law-abiding citizens. But I’m a reasonable man. If you agree to serve me in…whatever capacity I require, the authorities needn’t hear of your crime. Desperate Damsel: B-But I ain’t done nothin’ wrong! Twelve as me witness! Desperate Damsel: P-Please, adventurer! Help me, I beg o’ ye! Desperate Damsel: I swear on me mother’s grave, I didn’t steal nothin’! I bought this with the coin I’d saved… (sob) I only wanted to treat me children to a decent meal… Obnoxious Merchant: And who the hells are you when you’re at home!? This dog’s master? Obnoxious Merchant: I’ve had enough of this mummer’s farce. You lot, teach them a lesson! Boastful Bodyguard: I ain’t gettin’ paid enough for this! Obnoxious Merchant: H-Hey! Where the hells do you think you’re going!? Desperate Damsel: Thank ye, kind adventurer! Thank ye thrice over!
Young City-dweller: I’d swear there were more refugees than when I last looked… Concerned Citizen: And you wouldn’t be mistaken. Young City-dweller: But it’s been five years since the Calamity! Why are they only coming here now? Concerned Citizen: It’s simple, really─while a number of hamlets survived the immediate aftermath of the Calamity, many were no longer able to support their communities. Concerned Citizen: The residents found their lands had either been rendered barren, or cut off from trade routes─and problems like those aren’t easily solved. Though they tried to make the best of it, it was only a matter of time before they were forced to abandon their homes and seek a new life in the city. Young City-dweller: I see… Young City-dweller: But the Calamity affected the whole realm, didn’t it? Is the same thing happening in the other cities? Concerned Citizen: If the talk is true, yes. Concerned Citizen: Though perhaps our situation is more pronounced. Ul’dah has a reputation for being prosperous, so it’s natural that the refugees would try their luck here first. Young City-dweller: My heart goes out to them, it truly does…but I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t apprehensive. I hope their presence doesn’t foment lawlessness in the city. Concerned Citizen: Well, if things do take a turn for the worse, we always have the Immortal Flames. I daresay the Brass Blades would welcome their help. Young City-dweller: The heroes who fought the Garlean Empire, patrolling the streets for riffraff? Concerned Citizen: It may well come to that. Concerned Citizen: Impoverished and desperate as they are, you may be sure that some of the refugees will turn to crime. Concerned Citizen: You know what this place is like. If you’ve no coin, you’ve no hope. Young City-dweller: (sigh) What will become of our city? Concerned Citizen: Not all refugees are bad, mind you. Some are able to find employment and lead honest lives. Sure-voiced Salesman: Dodo tenderloins! Get yer dodo tenderloins! Guaranteed cheapest in Thanalan! Sure-voiced Salesman: Thank ye for yer custom, madam! Please come again! Young City-dweller: Looking around, you’d think that Ul’dah was well on its way to recovery. Young City-dweller: But peer through the veil of prosperity and you’ll see no end to the misery and suffering.
Desperate Damsel: Er…madam? Are ye all right? Obnoxious Merchant: Wh-What now!? You mean to threaten a defenseless citizen!? Obnoxious Merchant: …What? Saw her buy that meat, you say? Th-That’s absurd! ???: Aye, as did I! Leave the poor woman alone, you damnable vulture! Obnoxious Merchant: Wh-Who said that!? Obnoxious Merchant: Grrr! I will overlook this…but just this once! Desperate Damsel: Gods bless ye, adventurer! If ye hadn’t come along when ye did, who knows what that monster might’ve done!? It don’t bear thinkin’ about… ???: Ever the selfless hero, I see. Y’shtola: It has been a while, adventurer. Y’shtola: I have been watching you closely ever since you flew out of Limsa Lominsa. Y’shtola: You discharged your duty as the Admiral’s personal envoy with admirable humility, and you have displayed unfaltering courage in the face of danger ever since. Y’shtola: Whensoever you came upon those in need, you gave them succor with no thought of personal gain. Y’shtola: In summary, you have demonstrated all of the qualities we seek in an adventurer. Y’shtola: For reasons I cannot well explain, your every deed seems invariably to serve the general good…whether you mean it to or not. It is a happy knack, and one which speaks volumes for your character! Y’shtola: Yet for all your admirable qualities, it is your gift which intrigues me most. I speak of the visions you experience. Visions like the one you had mere moments ago, if I am not mistaken. I can provide you with the means to understand them. Y’shtola: An acquaintance of mine is blessed with the selfsame talent, you see… If you so desire, I can introduce you to her. She and I fight for a common cause─a cause which would greatly benefit for your support. Y’shtola: If you would agree to lend us your strength, we should be glad to do all within our power to aid you in your personal endeavors. Y’shtola: Think on my offer awhile. Should you decide to accept it, pray speak with Momodi. The proprietress of the Quicksand is a close friend and ally of ours. Y’shtola: Inform her that you have been chosen by the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, and she will tell you where to find us.
Momodi: Hmph. Scenes like that are becomin’ ever more common, I’m afraid. Don’t worry, though─if you work hard, you’ll probably be all right. Momodi: Sayin’ that, if you ever find yourself in a spot of bother, come and see me. Just don’t go pesterin’ me every time you graze your knee, eh? Momodi: …’Course, I do enjoy hearin’ tell of a gentleman’s woes with the womenfolk from time to time… Momodi: Ah, Meredith! Sorry to keep you waitin’─I was just providin’ guidance to a fresh-off-the-carriage adventurer. Momodi: But gods, it’s good to see you safe and well! To look at you, no one would ever guess you’d been hard at it with giants in the dark! Momodi: You’re every ilm the adventurer Miounne said you’d be, Meredith. The stationmaster will be overjoyed when he hears the news! Momodi: Oh, before I forget, there’s a lass here who wants a word with you. Didn’t actually know your name, but hearin’ her description, I knew who she meant right away. Edda: Th-Thank you for sparing the time. I realize you don’t know me, but I’ve been longing to speak with you for a while now. Edda: My name is Edda. I’m an adventurer like you, though I’m not very good at being one, if truth be told. Anyway, I was adventuring with my friends in Gridania when…when… I-I’m sorry. We were in Gridania…when the leader of our party was killed. Edda: His name was Avere, and he and I were to be wed in the spring. You may not remember him, but to say that he remembered you would be an understatement. He would sing your praises from dawn to dusk. He saw you for what you are, you see─an adventurer’s adventurer─and swore that he would be like you one day. Edda: I believe that he would have succeeded…had a fiend not robbed him of the chance. Since that day, I have thought long and hard about giving up adventuring. Edda: But when I think of the woman you are─of all that you’ve achieved─I find that I am inspired, just as Avere once was. Edda: And so I’ve decided to start again as an adventurer. I will go back to the village of my birth and begin my training anew. Edda: But I wanted to meet you first…to ask you your name. Edda: Meredith Croix… I shan’t forget. Edda: Thank you, Meredith Croix. I pray that we will meet again. Fare you well! Momodi: Adventurin’ can be a cruel bleedin’ business… Time was, I didn’t know why anyone would bother. When they first asked me to take charge of the guild here, I didn’t want aught to do with you lot─thought it’d be a right pain in the arse lookin’ after you all. Momodi: But against my better judgment, I decided to accept the post…and I’m full glad I did. I feel privileged to be a part of your lives. Momodi: And that goes double for yours, Meredith! Momodi: …Eh? What did you say? You want to know about the Scions of the Seventh Dawn? Momodi: They’re beginnin’ to move in earnest, then… Momodi: Listen, Meredith─the Scions ain’t no ordinary folk, and the work they do ain’t no ordinary work. I know full well how capable you are, but even you would think twice about attemptin’ some of the stuff they do. Knowin’ that, if you’re still certain you want to get involved, I’ll tell you what I can.
Mother Miounne: So, you’re not averse to taking a little trip? Wonderful! Mother Miounne: As I mentioned earlier, the request comes to us from the Adventurers’ Guild in Ul’dah. Once you arrive, seek out Momodi, the proprietress of the Quicksand. Think of her as the sultanate’s version of myself. Mother Miounne: Chances are she’ll send you into the midst of danger, but I have every confidence that you will pull through unscathed. Now, off you go, Meredith, and good luck!
Momodi: Welcome to the Quicksand, friend. I’m a tad busy right now, if you wouldn’t mind showin’ yourself to─ Momodi: Judgin’ by your determined expression, I take it you ain’t here for ale. Are you called Meredith Croix, by any chance? Momodi: Miounne sent word that you’d be reportin’ for duty. She also made a point of callin’ you the adventurer of the moment. That ain’t no small praise, comin’ from her. Momodi: But you didn’t come all the way here to listen to my prattle. Doubtless you’re eager to get started, so let’s talk business, shall we?
Mother Miounne: Ready for that briefing? Good! Now then, here’s the long and short of it… Lewin: Beg pardons for interrupting, Miounne, but our need grows ever more pressing. Have none stepped forward? Mother Miounne: And good morrow to you too, Bowlord! Your need must be pressing indeed for you to honor us with a visit. The good news is: your journey hasn’t been wasted. I’m pleased to report that we have a volunteer at last, and one who comes highly recommended, at that. Lewin: My thanks for answering the call, friend. My name is Lewin, and I lead the men and women of the Gods’ Quiver. Lewin: Now, time is of the essence, so I shall proceed directly to the heart of the matter. We wish for you to nip a potential threat to Gridania in the bud. Mother Miounne: Beneath the Central Shroud, there lies an underground burial site called the Tam-Tara Deepcroft. Mother Miounne: The place was once a Gelmorran settlement, but we Gridanians have long interred our dead there. Lewin: Of late, however, shadowy figures have been seen skulking about the Deepcroft, and with ever-increasing regularity. Lewin: Based on the accounts of various witnesses, we suspect that these individuals belong to the Lambs of Dalamud, a doomsday cult which sprung up prior to the Calamity. Lewin: These zealots have proven themselves dangerous in the past, and we leave them to their own devices at our peril. Lewin: Ordinarily, I would have dispatched my best men to scour the Deepcroft with orders to flush the cultists out. Lewin: Alas, the Calamity decimated our ranks, and the limited forces at my disposal are constantly required to keep the Ixal at bay. Lewin: The birdmen have grown restless of late, and I fear a storm may be brewing. In anticipation of this, I have been compelled to spread our forces throughout the Twelveswood, lest we be taken unawares. Lewin: The situation so being, we must turn to others to deal with the Lambs of Dalamud. Can we rely on you to undertake this task, friend? Lewin: You have my gratitude. Lewin: Once you’ve seen to your preparations, pray make your way to the Deepcroft, and identify yourself to the guard posted at the entrance. He will apprise you of the latest developments. That is all. Mother Miounne: Be careful out there, you hear? May the Crystal guide you and keep you!
Gods’ Quiver Bow: You’re Meredith Croix, I take it? Thanks for helping us out, friend. Gods’ Quiver Bow: No doubt the Bowlord has already informed you, but your task is to enter the Deepcroft and purge it of the Lambs of Dalamud. Gods’ Quiver Bow: In case you’re unfamiliar with them, the cult emerged shortly before the Calamity put an end to the Sixth Astral Era. Gods’ Quiver Bow: The cultists took the lesser moon, Dalamud, for their god, believing that it would deliver them from the devastation. Gods’ Quiver Bow: And so they were rather disappointed when Dalamud exploded into a thousand flaming pieces before it could complete its descent. Gods’ Quiver Bow: Now, having seen their god turn to ash, one would think that the cultists might feel moved to question their faith. On the contrary, it served only to stoke the flames of their fanaticism. Gods’ Quiver Bow: The Lambs of Dalamud are convinced that “heretics”─that is to say, everyone but them─interfered with the coming of their lord and savior, and that it’s now their sacred duty to avenge him. Gods’ Quiver Bow: Whatever it is they’re doing in the Deepcroft, you may be sure that no good will come of it. For the sake of Gridania, and Eorzea at large, put an end to their madness.
Galvanth the Dominator: Who summons me from the void to reside within this crude vessel?
Mother Miounne: Welcome back, Meredith! I’m reliably informed that your foray into the Deepcroft was a success. Mother Miounne: Nor did I expect anything less. Baderon’s ringing endorsement left me in little doubt as to your capabilities. Even so, you are to be commended. Mother Miounne: Bowlord Lewin asked me to pass on his thanks. Mother Miounne: I must say, it’s something of a relief to be able to call upon such a capable adventurer. Mother Miounne: Sadly, death has become an ever more common occurrence within our fraternity of late. Times being what they are, the guild is constantly inundated with petitions, and we are hard-pressed to find enough hands to deal with them all. Mother Miounne: While this means no shortage of work for able souls such as yourself, it also provides ample opportunity for the inexperienced to overreach themselves─with predictable consequences. Ah…as if to illustrate the point… Liavinne: Avere’s gone, and it’s all your fault! If it hadn’t taken you an age to heal him, he would still be alive! Edda: (sniff) B-But I tried! He bolted out of range before I could finish the spell! Edda: (sob) He shouldn’t have been so hard-pressed in the first place… We should’ve done more to lighten his burden… Paiyo Reiyo: Bah! To the hells with this pathetic excuse for a party! I’m leaving, and it’d be too soon if I never see your faces again! Good-bye, and good riddance! Liavinne: I’m leaving as well. I doubt this comes as any surprise, but I never liked you. I only suffered you for your healing, but you couldn’t even do that one thing right. Cruel though this may sound, you brought this upon yourself. Liavinne: Oh, and by way of some parting advice…get rid of Avere’s head! Bury it, cremate it, do whatever the hells you like with it─but for gods’ sakes, stop carrying it around! It’s…it’s just… Just get rid of it, all right!? Edda: W-Wait! Don’t leave me alone! Please! Edda: (sob) I’m so sorry, Avere… Please forgive me… Mother Miounne: Scenes like this have become all too common. That makes a dozen times in half as many days… Mother Miounne: Now you see why I’m grateful for adventurers of your experience. I can send women like you on a mission without worrying that you might not return─well, not so much, at any rate. Mother Miounne: Speaking of missions, I would entrust you with another. Mother Miounne: About a bell ago, I received a message from my counterpart in Ul’dah. She seeks the services of a reliable adventurer, and you are nothing if not reliable. Mother Miounne: If you think you might be interested in this task, say the word, and I will be glad to share the details with you.
Keishinrei 