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An Ending to Mark a New Beginning

2024-05-08T22:02:22Z

Azryyal: /* Additional Cutscene= */ typo

{{Quest infobox
| title = An Ending to Mark a New Beginning
| image = An Ending to Mark a New Beginning Image.png
| description = [[Alphinaud]] seems to be at a loss for words.
| quest-giver = Alphinaud
| location = Southern Thanalan
| location-x = 21
| location-y = 21
| type = main scenario
| quest-line = Post-Dragonsong Main Scenario Quests
| level = 60
| exp = 5000
| gil = 1,420
| reward1 = 1 Wind-up Moenbryda
| unlocks = ach No Retreat No Surrender
| prev-quest = One Life for One World
| next-quest = Tidings from Gyr Abania
| patch = 3.4
| release = Heavensward
| msq-index = 370
}}

==Steps==
*Speak with [[Alisaie]].
*Speak with [[Papalymo]].
*Speak with [[Alphinaud]] in [[the Rising Stones]].
*Speak with [[Alphinaud]].

==Journal==
*[[Alphinaud]] recalls that the [[Ishgard]]ian crystals are still somewhere within [[Zahar'ak]], prompting [[Thancred]] to interject that he will see to their recovery -- alone. Unable to persuade the bard to accept assistance, Alphinaud resolved to go and find [[Yda]] and [[Papalymo]], leaving you with a tired [[Alisaie]] and a morose [[Urianger]], who are doing their best not to speak to each other.

*You finally break the silence, giving the others an excuse to speak. Alisaie declares that she wanted to believe Urianger would never betray them, but that some small part of her feared the worst. In response, the [[Archon]] once more expresses his sorrow for his deception, though it is plain that he still believes the ends justified the means. Alisaie, however, cannot bring herself to condone his actions. Even so, she allows him to escort her to safety, suggesting that any rift that may have grown between them is already on its way to mending.

*Having returned to [[Little Ala Mhigo]], you and Alphinaud met with Yda and Papalymo, who are understandably dumbstruck to hear the tale of your visit to the aetherial sea. After a pause, Papalymo declares that it is past time he and Yda rejoined the [[Scions]]. A statement of the glaringly obvious, no doubt, but a welcome one nonetheless. As you all prepare to return to the [[The Rising Stones|Rising Stones]], you are accosted by [[Gundobald]], who is apparently acquainted with both Yda and [[Curtis Hext|her father]], with whom he fought in the revolution against the [[King Theodoric|King of Ruin]] twenty years ago. He goes on to recall how Yda once played an active role in the [[Ala Mhigan Resistance|Resistance]]... until she vanished one day, leaving him fearing the worst. Though plainly startled, Yda musters an apology, explaining that her involvement in the [[The Circle of Knowing|Circle of Knowing]] and its successor, the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, necessitated absolute secrecy. Suddenly conscious that her friends are waiting for her at the Rising Stones, she runs off, leaving Papalymo to reassure Gundobald that they will both return ere long.

*With every surviving senior Scion now safely back at the Rising Stones, Alphinaud takes the opportunity to propose that the structure of the organization be revised. Rather than holding to a strict hierarchy, he believes that each member should be allowed to pursue whatever activities they think would best serve to ensure the safety and security of the realm. The others are amenable to this idea in principle -- though in practice, all seem content to carry on with their current activities. With thoughts now turning towards the future, [[Krile]] and Alisaie are welcomed as a fully fledged Scions, though the latter accepts the honor with rather less enthusiasm than the former. Still more negative is Urianger, who is plainly haunted by feelings of guilt towards his role in [[Minfilia Warde|Minfilia's]] fate -- but after some urging from Thancred, he too agrees to resume his research, thus completing the party -- save, of course, for one. Expectantly, your friends and colleagues turn to you, eager to hear what you intend, and after looking deep within your heart, you know the answer.

*The people you have met. The moments you have shared. The losses you have suffered. The tragedies you have overcome. All of it has made you and the Scions of the Seventh Dawn who you are today. Where you go from here and what the future holds, only the Twelve know... but Alphinaud knows that you will find out together.

==Dialogue==
===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' ...Hm? Forgive me. MY thoughts were elsewhere. And this when I know full well there is yet work to be done. The crystals -
'''Thancred:''' Leave them to me. I will go back into Zahar'ak and secure them. The Amalj'aa will still be in disarray after the thrashing the Warriors of Darkness gave them. They are not like to notice a lone bard skulking about.
'''Alphinaud:''' But Thancred, you -
'''Thancred:''' Don't have to do this, I know. But I ''want'' to. I will see you at the Rising Stones.
'''Alphinaud:''' ...I should go and find Yda and Papalymo. They must have finished searching the Masks' camp by now. Not that it matters anymore...

===Speak with Alisaie===
'''Alisaie:''' You must be tired, [Forename]. I know I am...
'''Urianger:''' If thou wilt permit me, my lady, I would ask a question. When didst thou become aware of mine independent pursuits?
'''Alisaie:''' When I saw you meeting with that Warrior of Darkness and the Ascian in white at the Great Library. I tried not to think the worst. You've never been one to confide in others, so I knew that even were your intentions pure, you would not share your plans with us until you felt the time was right. But I cannot deny that a part of me feared you had simply betrayed us.
'''Urianger:''' Would that there had been another way. Know that I took no pleasure in deceiving thee, and that these sins will forever weigh heavy on my heart.
'''Alisaie:''' ...I understand why you did what you did. That you but sought to achieve the greatest good while inflicting the least harm. Not many would have the courage to make that choice. But even knowing what came of your actions...I find that I cannot condone them. I'm sorry. [Forename], forgive me, but I believe the events of the day have taken their toll on me. I should like to rest for a while.
'''Urianger:''' If thou wilt grant me leave, I would gladly escort thee unto a refuge of thine own choosing. Once my lady hath regained her strength, we shall join thee at the Rising Stones. Until then, Warrior of Light.

===Speak with Papalymo===
'''Papalymo:''' Well met, [Forename]. Alphinaud said you would be joining us. 'Twould seem the Griffin's double was telling the truth, insofar as we found nothing resembling a sizable cache of crystals in the Masks' camp. Did you perchance find one in Zahar'ak?
'''Alphinaud:''' Actually...
'''Yda:''' ...I don't believe it. The crystals, Minfilia, all of it. It's just - I don't know what it is.
'''Alphinaud:''' I sympathize, Yda. Even now, I struggle to comprehend that which I saw... The only thing I can say with any certainty is that I feel blessed to have been granted a final chance to speak with her. 'Twas bittersweet, aye, but also...affirming.
'''Papalymo:''' ...Alphinaud, I believe it is past time Yda and I rejoined the Scions. We have been away for far too long. Though I am loath to leave the Griffin to his own devices, I feel our investigation would benefit from your more dispassionate perspectives. And I hope that we might, in turn, offer our own opinions on the many challenges that you have faced in our absence.
'''Yda:''' Gods, it's been absolutely ages, hasn't it? I can't wait to hear about everyone's adventures.
'''Alphinaud:''' We should be glad to recount them. And Tataru's tales may well surprise you.
'''Gundobald:''' Yda...? Yda! Rhalgr be praised, it ''is'' you! Yda, ''alive'' and standing before me, in the flesh! I can hardly believe my eyes!
'''Yda:''' I...Er...
'''Gundobald:''' Oh, come now, has it really been so long you don't remember me? It's Gundobald! I fought beside your father in the revolution! Do not think less of her, friends! It's been twenty years since the occupation sent us our separate ways. But the Resistance were always welcome in Little Ala Mhigo. They gave us hope - and young Yda most of all! Aye, Yda here was always full of fire, ever the first to volunteer for a mission. Until the day she up and vanished, that is! There were rumors, and we feared the worst, but here you are, alive and well, looking nary a day older!
'''Yda:''' W-Well, what can I say? I...I'm sorry for running off like that and making you all worry. It's a long story, but you see...I...I got involved with my friends here, the Scions - Oh, sorry, we were still in the Circle of Knowing back then, right! A-Anyway, I wanted to come back and tell you, but it wall very secretive stuff at the time and, uh...as you can see, I'm completely fine! (''Yda turns to the Warrior of Light''). I know we've got a lot to talk about - and we will - but right now I've got to hurry back to our headquarters! My friends are expecting me!
'''Papalymo:''' Pray forgive her. It has been a very long day for us all. I promise we will visit again at the first opportunity. Let us return to the Rising Stones. Hells take me for giving you that mask...

===Speak with [[Alphinaud]] in [[the Rising Stones]]===
'''Alphinaud:''' Welcome home, [Forename]. I trust your journey was uneventful. You will be pleased to hear that Thancred has secured the crystals. He sent word a short while ago. Once he has delivered them safely into the Temple Knights' care, he will rejoin us here, and we can declare this matter officially resolved. While awaiting your arrival, I took the opportunity to contact Y'shtola and Krile, and briefed them on all that has occurred. I also requested that they return to the Rising Stones at their earliest convenience. Now that our lost friends have been found, it would seem meet to discuss the future.

'''Yda:''' Back in the solar! It's been too long since we were all together like this. Not since...not since after Moenbryda...
'''Papalymo:''' Much has changed since then - we ourselves most of all.
'''Alphinaud:''' Though not all who were lost could be gathered here today, we may take comfort in the knowledge that those who are not are carrying on the fight.
'''Tataru:''' While I am grateful to our friends in the north for their hospitality...it isn't half-good to be back!
'''Alphinaud:''' But, as Papalymo rightly said, much has changed since we last stood here. The Scions of the Seventh Dawn are not as they once were. Nor should we be. Our travels in the north brought us in contact with a host of fine and generous people, and their selfless deeds served to show me that it is not lofty causes that should inform our actions, but our hearts. And I hope that the Scions might continue in this manner: as individuals driven by individual principles. Provided we all sincerely desire to work towards Eorzea's salvation, I believe the paths we follow to achieve it need not - and should not - be dictated by any single ideal.
'''Y'shtola:''' Companions bound by a common purpose, free to go whither they will... The idea is not without merit. Very well. I shall resume my research of the primals and the elder gods of Eorzea. Should anyone have need of my findings, you need only ask. (''Glances at Krile''). I should be glad of your continued assistance.
'''Krile:''' Well, my main purpose in coming here was to see the Scions of the Seventh Dawn restored and my dear friend found...Nevertheless, having involved myself in your struggles, I feel compelled to see them through to the bitter end. For Minfilia's sake. That is, if there are no objections?
'''Alphinaud:''' You will always be welcome here, Krile.
'''Thancred:''' Urianger, can we trust you to carry on your investigation of the Ascians as before?
'''Urianger:''' Regardless of mine own desires, I am undeserving of your trust, having so villainously deceived you all.
'''Thancred:''' Now, now, I'll hear no more of that. 'Twould be disrespectful of Minfilia's wishes. She entrusted matters here to us, that he might protect this star and understand the truth which hides at Her heart. Mayhap I can handle the former, but I think you far better suited to the latter, no?
'''Urianger:''' Very well. Then out of love for my lady Minfilia and Moenbryda both, this shall be my solemn charge.
'''Yda:''' I...''Papalymo and I'' should probably return to Thanalan to keep an eye on the Resistance. There's still the matter of the Griffin and the Amalj'aa,not to mention the new imperial viceroy. That little lot must be worthy of our attention, right?
'''Alphinaud:''' And what will you do, Alisaie?
'''Alisaie:''' You know I have no great love for organizations and formalities. That being said...this new approach you propose is not wholly objectionable. And we've always got her to keep us from bickering. But I will suffer no titles. I am not here for House Leveilleur, nor to walk in Grandfather's shadow.
'''Alphinaud:''' Upon that point, we see eye to eye. If it please you, you may think of me as but another comrade-in-arms.
'''Tataru:''' Well then, ''Alphy'' - I, for my part, shall see to the paperwork and the finances with my characteristic aplomb.
'''Alphinaud:'' I would not have it any other way, Tataru. And we mustn't forget you. What now for the Warrior of Light?
'''Warrior of Light:''' (A new adventure, what else? / The road goes ever on... / To strive for those we have lost. For those we can yet save. / ...) -> The road goes ever on...
'''Alphinaud:''' Indeed.
'''Y'shtola:''' The path behind us was fraught with hardship, and the path before us will be no less unforgiving. But a new dawn ''shall'' break over the realm, and I see before me the faces of those who will deliver it.

===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' Look at them, [Forename]. The Scions of the Seventh Dawn. Look how far we've come... The people we've met. The moments we've shared. The losses we've suffered. The tragedies we've overcome. All of it has made us who are today. Where we go from here and what the future holds, only the Twelve know... ... But I know that we will find out together.

===Cutscene===
'''Narrator:''' One world's heroes are another world's villains. One world's loss another world's gain. "Where men go as one, there is life...And where there is life".
'''Papalymo:''' My friends. If I may, I would ask that you entrust Tupsimati to me. Clouds gather upon the horizon, and as Master Louisoix's disciple, I would keep it close at hand. (''Warrior of Light hands it to Papalymo''). Thank you. I shall guard it well.
'''Narrator:''' "...There is cause to hope". For every ending, every parting, marks a new beginning.

===Additional Cutscene===
'''The Griffin:''' (''Talking to the fake Griffin''). Well done, brother. You may resume your normal duties and rejoin the other.s The coming battle shall be our greatest yet, and I intend to stand with you all on that glorious day.
'''Elidibus:''' ...True believers are so ''readily'' led.
'''The Griffin:''' I have given them everything they desired. All for which they have prayed. I doubt you can say the same for your pawns. Get what you wanted, then? Was it all worth it in the end?
'''Elidibus:''' There were some...unexpected developments, but they were ultimately to our advantage. Be it host to a surfeit of Light or Dark, a world bereft of equilibrium is but a void in waiting. And a void is of no use to my master. I shall follow Her emissary with great interest. As for the "pawns" whom you so pity...they have delivered unto me a gift, which I do now present to you. (''A crystal with Nidhogg's eyes floats towards The Griffin''). The Eyes of Nidhogg. Many were the candidates considered, but by your deeds, you have proven yourself the most deserving. A man of boundless rage and bottomless despair, in whose breast beats a heart which thirsts for vengeance. Only you are fit to wield these eyes - for weal or for woe.

===Cutscene, a desert with Allagan imagery===
'''???:''' Hmph. So it was here all along...
'''Nero tol Scaeva:''' Oh, you just wait, my pretty! You and I are going to have ''so'' much fun!

When We Were Free

2024-05-08T19:19:56Z

Azryyal: /* Rendezvous with Alphinaud at the Sunken Temple of Qarn= */ fix heading

{{Quest infobox
| title = When We Were Free
| image = When We Were Free Image.png
| description = [[Alphinaud]] is eager to get to work.
| quest-giver = Alphinaud
| location = Southern Thanalan
| location-x = 18
| location-y = 13
| type = main scenario
| quest-line = Post-Dragonsong Main Scenario Quests
| level = 60
| exp = 5000
| gil = 745
| prev-quest = Beneath a Star-filled Sky
| next-quest = Honorable Heroes
| patch = 3.4
| release = Heavensward
| msq-index = 367
}}

==Steps==
*Question the residents of [[Little Ala Mhigo]]. 0/3

*Speak with [[Alphinaud]].

*Speak with [[Gundobald]].

*Rendezvous with [[Alphinaud]] at [[the Sunken Temple of Qarn]].

*Speak with [[Alphinaud]].

==Journal==
*It is not exactly a well-kept secret that the [[Ala Mhigan Resistance|Resistance]] has an established presence in [[Little Ala Mhigo]]. Even refugees who are not directly involved in the organization are likely to possess some information concerning its activities -- or so [[Alphinaud]] would like to believe. Whether or not they will speak openly of such things to outsiders is, of course, a different matter. Nevertheless, unasked questions are wont to go unanswered.

*Several of the residents make mention of a mysterious man named the [[The Griffin|Griffin]], a revolutionary leader who always wears a mask in public. A charismatic figure, he seems to have inspired a good many of the refugees to rally to his standard, and there are even rumors that he and his [[The Masks|Masks]] have a secret weapon they plan to use against the [[Garlean]] occupiers.

*Alphinaud and [[Alisaie]]'s inquiries yield similar information to yours, and after reviewing your collected findings, you conclude it is highly likely that the Masks are the group who received the shipment of crystals from [[Ishgard]]. This, combined with the fact that their passion for [[Ala Mhigo|Ala Mhigan]] liberation borders on the fanatical, does lend credence to the theory that the revolutionaries are plotting to summon a [[primal]]. Even so, it would be unwise to act on such suspicions without first obtaining confirmation, and to that end, a conversation with [[Gundobald]], the settlement's leader, would seem to be in order.

*Though the fires of idealism often fade with age and experience, Gundobald admits that even he has found inspiration in the Griffin and his deeds. Yet he has not forgotten how [[Wilred]] and his friends were once led astray, and how all might have ended in still greater tragedy had you not intervened. Determined that his people should never again fall prey to the machinations of manipulative men, he bids you journey to [[the Sunken Temple of Qarn]], where the Griffin is due to speak, and weigh the worth of his words for yourself.

*The Griffin is every bit the silver-tongued speaker, painting a picture of a homeland abandoned and of a people forsaken. His words conjure feelings of guilt, yet also offer the promise of redemption -- of bloody retribution, and of glorious freedom, won with a power residing in the hearts of the brave and true. Muttering darkly to himself, Alphinaud surveys the congregation... and catches sight of two very familiar faces: [[Yda]] and [[Papalymo]]! Though you have many questions, it is agreed that the temple is no place for lengthy discussions, and so you slip away while the crowd watches the Griffin in rapt attention.

*Yda and Papalymo reveal that having parted ways with you after the fateful banquet, they slipped out of the city with the aid of some old friends from the Resistance. These goodly souls duly sheltered the two fugitives in Little Ala Mhigo at great personal risk, and so they deemed it only fair to remain for a time, assisting them in their operations to repay the favor. When Papalymo subsequently learned of the [[Scions]]' exoneration -- that the [[The Crystal Braves|Crystal Braves]] had been denounced and General [[Raubahn]] reinstated -- he apparently attempted to reestablish contact. However, it seems likely that his missive was intercepted by the Masks, who are reluctant to allow word of their activities to spread beyond the refugee community. Their tale thus told, you proceed to brief the pair on your ongoing investigation into the missing crystal shipment. While shocked by the idea that the Masks may be planning to summon a primal, they observe that the Griffin and his men have claimed on more than one occasion to possess a means to defeat the Empire... Plainly, much and more remains to be established, but whatever the truth may be, you are sure to find it that much faster with the help of your long-lost allies.

==Dialogue==
===Speak with Alphinud===
'''Alphinaud:''' So, to review: we are reliably informed that members of the Ala Mhigan Resistance operating here have taken receipt of several large shipments of crystals, our task being to ascertain who and why. Given the size of the settlement, I find it hard to believe that anyone here could be wholly unaware of the Resistance's movements. The challenge, of course, will be finding individuals who are both able ''and'' willing to share such information with outsiders. It would seem sensible to divide our forces. [Forename], why don't you question the residents in the eastern half of town? Alisaie and I will do the same in the west, and afterwards we can rendezvous here to share our findings.

===Question the residents of [[Little Ala Mhigo]]===
'''Sifrid:''' Ah, let me guess: come to join the fight, have you? No need to deny it, friend. You're not the first to answer the Griffin's call! While he's lit a fire in every Ala Mhigan's heart, he also inspired more than a few Ul'dahns to pledge themselves to the cause. And little wonder - the Garleans won't stop until we're all under the yoke!

'''Talebot:''' ...I see you there, goin' around askin' questions. Lookin' for the Griffin an' his lot, I'll bet. Seems they're the talk of Little Ala Mhigo these days. Folk wonderin' what he's about, what he's got in store for the Garleans - an' what's under that mask of his, of course. Some say he's hardly got a face, what with all the scars. Others reckon he's been marked for death by the Empire, an' that they'd send a bloody legion if he knew he was here. <snort> Your guess is as good as mine.

'''Otelin:''' Eh? The Resistance? Damned if I know. It's not as if I'd be any use to 'em. <cough> <wheeze> If you set store by all these tales of secret weapons, good luck to you - but I'm too old for the Masks' bedtime stories. This is our lot, and it's time we got used to it.

===Speak with [[Alphinaud]]===
'''Alphinaud:''' I suppose I should ask what you learned, but I think I already know. ...This Griffin seems to be the leader of a newly formed faction within the Resistance. The Masks. Yet despite their growing popularity, no one seems to know much about them - only that they are the most aggressively militant group to join the movement in recent memory. Indeed, many claim their commitment to the cause of Ala Mhigan liberation is unrivaled. We can but hope their revolutionary fervor is never channeled in the direction of a primal. Though I feel confident that this is the group which received the crystal shipments, we yet lack proof. Before taking any action, I would speak with the settlment's leader to confirm my suspicions - and mayhap enlist his help while I am about it. Given that you and Gundobald are already acquainted, mayhap it would be best if you took the lead. Shall we?

===Speak with [[Gundobald]]===
'''Gundobald:''' Much as it pleases me to see you again, [Forename], I cannot help but wonder if I should be worried. I hear you and yours have been asking questions... The Griffin? Aye, I know of him, as do we all. He and his Masks have become a leading faction within the Resistance. Though there was suspicion at first given his secretive ways, he quickly proved himself a charismatic and capable commander. Men are drawn to his passion and his vision - they truly believe that he has what it takes to lead them to victory. Even I cannot help but admire the man for what he's accomplished. But I Have not forgotten Wilred. I was blind to the danger of his ambitions....and you were not. The Griffin will soon deliver a speech to our people at the Sunken Temple of Qarn. Go and see him with your own eyes, weigh his words with your own heart.
'''Alphinaud:''' How convenient. 'Tis but a pity Thancred is not here to join us.
'''Alisaie:'' You two go on ahead. I shall stay behind and wait for him.

===Rendezvous with [[Alphinaud]] at [[the Sunken Temple of Qarn]]===
'''Alphinaud:''' Has it begun already? I hear voices coming from within...

'''The Griffin:''' Brothers and sisters... Twenty years ago, Ala Mhigo, our home, was claimed by the Garlean Empire. In our haste to overthrow the King of Ruin, we turned a blind eye to our foes in the north. With our glorious revolution, we but laid a path for a new tyrant to succeed the old...and when confronted with our failure, we fled. Not a day goes by that I do not think of those we left behind - think of them, and feel ashamed. And I know each and every one of you feels the same. We abandoned them, our own flesh and blood, to labor till their backs gave in and their breath gave out, building the twisted steel ramparts which now mar our once majestic mountains. We abandoned them, the brave and true, to fight and die for their country - or worse, to be conscripted and sent off to rob another poor bastard of his home. We abandoned them, the meek and powerless, to bow and scrape when the Garleans pass - to sully themselves that they might live to see another day of misery. The Black Wolf may be dead, but a new imperial viceroy reigns in Ala Mhigo now. A beast not a fraction as merciful. You all know the Eorzean Alliance will do naught to oppose him. For all their promises and platitudes, they will not act if there's no profit in it. Only ''we'' can free our brothers and sisters from the Empire's tyranny, my friends! Only we have the courage to stand and fight! They have imprisoned us, they have enslaved us, and they have murdered us - but no more! Blood demands blood, and the Garleans shall pay for every drop they have split upon our lands! This, I promise you, for we have a power within us, my friends - a power befitting our pride, our righteousness. Only join us, and we shall grant you the means to unleash it, and together we shall see the Ala Mhigan standard raised over the mountains of Gyr Abania once more! (''the crowd cheers'').
'''Alphinaud:''' "A power befitting their pride..." Not at all ominous, that. Wait. Is that - ? (''Yda and Palaymo are spotted by Alphinaud'').
'''Yda:''' <gasp> What are you two doing here!?
'''Alphinaud:''' I could ask you the same thing!
'''Papalymo:''' Well, well, this is quite the surprise. Might I suggest we continue this conversation in more...''agreeable'' surroundings?

===Speak with [[Alphinaud]]===
'''Alphinaud:''' Words cannot express how glad I am to see you both alive and well.
'''Yda:''' And you! Thought it was pretty obvious you and [Forename] would be fine.
'''Papalymo:''' The Crystal Braves never had a realistic chance of capturing any of the Scions, divided as they were and distrusted by the better part of Eorzea.
'''Alphinaud:''' But if you truly believed that - Forgive me. What exactly have you two been doing all this time? (''Papalymo and Yda look at eachother'').
'''Papalymo:''' ...Repaying a favor. After the banquet, we had no choice but to flee Ul'dah, and we would not have been able to do so without the aid of some old friends from the Resistance.
'''Yda:''' That's right. They smuggled us out of the city and sheltered us in Little Ala Mhigo, all at a great risk to themselves. Obviously we couldn't let that go unacknowledged, so we offered to help them out with their operations for a while.
'''Papalymo:''' When we learned of the Scions' exoneration - that Lolorito had severed all ties with the Crystal Braves, and that General Raubahn had been reinstated - we resolved to make contact. But having long since discarded our linkpearls as a precautionary measure, our options were rather limited. To make matters more complicated, we were embroiled in a delicaate operation at the time, leaving me with little choice but to entrust a letter to a courier. I gather from your puzzled expressions, however, that you never received it.
'''Yda:''' To be honest, we thought this might happen. While the Masks are happy to let the refugees spread the word within the community, they're pretty strict about communicating with outsiders. Oh, and we also heard a rumor that the Griffin doesn't want us meddling in his affairs.
'''Alphinaud:''' The Griffin mistrusts the Scions of the Seventh Dawn? Curious. It is well known that we are no friends to Garlemald. One would think the man we saw beseeching all and sundry to join his cause would welcome our support.
'''Papalymo:''' IAh, I should say that the man you saw was not in fact the Griffin, but an impersonator. And a talented rabble-rouser, to boot. 'Twould not surprise me if he were responsible for the majority of these public appearances. As you may have gathered, the Griffin is an extremely cautious and distrusting man who has made every effort to conceal his identity. Even when we participated in a raid under his direct command, we were not permitted to approach him.
'''Yda:''' It's hard to know what to make of it all. The secrecy, the impersonators, the ''masks''.... What? It's not as if I'm making all of ''you'' wear one! And mine only covers ''half'' my face. It's ''completely'' different! ''Anyway'', when we heard the Griffin was due to give a speech, we thought it might be a good opportunity to get a better sense of the man behind the - uh, to get a better sense of the ''man''. ...For all the good it did.
'''Papalymo:''' And now you have heard the whole of it. But tell me - what prompted ''you'' to take an interest in the Griffin? (''Warrior of Light motions'')
'''Yda:''' ''Summoning''!? You're not serious. I can't believe it...
'''Papalymo:''' The Resistance would never even entertain such a ridiculous plan, but the Griffin... Well, the man is an enigma. I cannot say with any confidence what he would or would not do. What I ''can'' say, however, is that the speech we heard today was not the first to make reference to a "power" capable of defeating the Empire. The MAsks have made many such claims of late. I confess, I had assumed it to be mere bluster, but in the context of the shipments of which you spoke, it is not impossible that they are alluding to a primal.
'''Yda:''' Whatever it is, we'll find out together - and if anyone tries to stop us, they'll answer to me!
'''Papalymo:''' Indeed. That is...assuming you'll have us?

Beneath a Star-filled Sky

2024-05-08T17:17:52Z

Azryyal: /* Cutscene to nighttime */ fmt

{{Quest infobox
| title = Beneath a Star-filled Sky
| description = [[Alphinaud]] would rather not worry about what may or may not come to pass.
| quest-giver = Alphinaud
| location = Outer La Noscea
| location-x = 20.6
| location-y = 16.9
| type = main scenario
| quest-line = Post-Dragonsong Main Scenario Quests
| level = 60
| exp = 5000
| gil = 1,670
| prev-quest = The Beast That Mourned at the Heart of the Mountain
| next-quest = When We Were Free
| patch = 3.4
| release = Heavensward
| msq-index = 366
}}

==Steps==
*Speak with [[Bloeidin]].
*Speak with [[Alphinaud]].
*Search for [[Alisaie]].
*Return to [[the Waking Sands]].
*Speak with [[Alphinaud]].
*Speak with [[Alisaie]] in [[Little Ala Mhigo]].

==Journal==
*Disinclined to dwell on the unpleasant question of [[Ga Bu]]'s fate, [[Alphinaud]] bids you apprise the [[Maelstrom]] of your victory over [[Titan]]. Yet as pleased as Commander [[Bloeidin]] will be to hear the news, he will inevitably demand that a decision be made...

*Commander Bloeidin is greatly relieved to hear that you have spared him the burden of sending good men to their deaths. In a show of gratitude, he invites you to stay the night and celebrate with the Maelstrom forces, and you accept -- yet as the evening wears on, you become aware that [[Alisaie]] is nowhere to be seen. You find her outside the camp enjoying a moment of quiet solitude with Ga Bu, and after joining her, she tells you of her struggle to understand [[Louisoix Leveilleur|her grandfather]]'s motivations and to find her own path having parted ways with her brother. The story of her journey seems more than a little familiar, as does the answer she found at the end of it: that in a world where high-minded ideals and earnest efforts all too often fall short, where the good suffer and the evil prosper, one must nevertheless aspire to a higher ideal. Her heart thus unburdened, Alisaie bids you share some tales of your time in the north, and you duly recount an adventure near and dear to your heart. Looking up into the starry night, you reflect on your own journey and what drives you to carry on...

*In the morning, you find Alphinaud packed and ready to depart. He reveals that he has been in contact with [[Thancred]] and [[Y'shtola]], both of whom have apparently discovered crates bearing defaced [[Ishgard]]ian seals during the course of their investigations. Armed with this information, Alphinaud thinks it prudent to consult with [[Urianger]] once more, and is eager to take to the road. Alisaie, however, is nowhere to be found -- and neither, you realize, is Ga Bu.

*No child should be forced to confront death firsthand, much less that of a parent. Though she knows she can never truly understand the depths of his despair, Alisaie takes a moment to comfort Ga Bu one final time. Having given up hope of eliciting a response, she surrenders him into Commander Bloeidin's care, entreating him to show the young [[kobold]] every kindness. But in that instant, the child breaks his silence, thanking Alisaie for everything she has done. All is not lost -- Ga Bu may one day recover from his trauma. With hope in your hearts, you set forth for [[Thanalan]].

*Back at [[the Waking Sands]], Urianger shares his latest findings. Per Alisaie's request, he has studied [[The Gerun Oracles]] and discovered a passage which suggests that a [[Rejoining]] would result in the deaths of all those living upon a reflection of the [[The Source|Source]]. Yet in death there is seemingly life as their souls would then be returned to the Source, where they might be reborn anew. Drastic as it sounds, Urianger speculates this may yet be preferable to the alternative, for it is possible that a world which falls to transcendent Light or Dark may ultimately be transformed into an unfathomable void.

*Even as you pause to contemplate the implications of these theories, Urianger reveals that the Ishgardian smugglers supplying the beast tribes with crystals have been identified as remnants of the criminal network established by [[Eline Roaille]] -- the infamous [[Garlean]] spymaster, the Ivy. What is more, the group has recently supplied crystals to another party: refugees devoted to the cause of [[Ala Mhigo|Ala Mhigan]] liberation. Wasting no time, Alphinaud bids you and Alisaie accompany him to [[Little Ala Mhigo]] to track down the shipment's recipients and find out what they intend.

*As you round the corner and head for the exit, you and the twins are contacted via linkpearl by Thancred, who proudly informs you of the latest developments in Ishgard. When he subsequently hears that you have obtained the same information, however, his disappointment is palpable. A troubled Alisaie then confirms that the raid on the smugglers' hideout was conducted less than an hour before, and that only a select few should know the group's true identity, and the destination of their final shipment...

*Alphinaud is unsure what to make of his sister's recent behavior towards Urianger, the two of them having always been quite close. As one of Louisoix's most dedicated pupils, Urianger was practically a member of the family. Yet her treatment of the [[Archon]] during your past several visits has suggested nothing of the sort. On the contrary, her words and actions seem to indicate a deep-seated suspicion. But why?

*Having spent the journey to Little Ala Mhigo turning the mystery over and over in your mind, you press Alisaie for an explanation, but find her reluctant to say anything more than that she is prepared “to do what must be done.” Whatever has passed between her and Urianger remains unclear for now, but you sense it will not be long before the truth comes out -- for better or for worse.

==Dialogue==
===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' There is naught to be gained from dwelling on an eventuality over which we have no control, much less one which may never even come to pass. Let us tend to the more immediate matters - informing Commander Bloeidin of Titan's demise, for example. You may be certain that he will be glad of the news. Would you be so kind as to break it to him?

===Speak with Bloeidin===
'''Bloeidin:''' Ah, you're a sight for sore eyes! When the others came back without you, I feared the worst, but they said you had matters well in hand. All is settled then, is it? I'm glad to hear it. But not as half as glad as my men'll be, believe you me! Regardless of whether or not he was summoned properly, a primal's a primal. And there ain't a soul in the Maelstrom that hasn't lost a friend to one. Don't get me wrong, like - we were all prepared to do our part. But we weren't so naive as to think we'd live to tell the tale. Thankfully, of course, it didn't come to that - which, my friend, sounds to me like cause for celebration! Now, I know you lot have places to be, but why not stay the night? We'd be honored to raise a glass to the trimuphant return of Titan's Bane!

===Cutscene to nighttime===
'''Alisaie:''' Who goes there? (''Alisaie notices Warrior of Light, who had followed Alisaie as she walked off''). Oh, it's you. Forgive me for straying from the camp. He hasn't been feeling too welcome, to say the least. I thought a change of scenery might do him good, but, alas... (''Warrior of Light walks over and sits next to Alisaie''). It's so quiet out here. The stars spread out before us, beckoning across time and space... "Dawn may banish even the darkest night." How bitterly beautiful, those words. I should be stronger for all my experiences, yet my heart aches more than ever. I never understood why Grandfather gave his life that day. I thought that, if I came here, I would find the answers I needed. But when I finally laid eye son the land he sacrificed everything to save, saw firsthand the bickering, the pettiness... I was disappointed. I was ''angry''. I could not fathom how these people were more deserving of his love than his family...than me... Nevertheless, I had to believe he had good reason. I was determined to uncover the whole truth of the Calamity, and perhaps in doing so find my own purpose in this sea of chaos. My travels have been enlightening, but I cannot say that I have enjoyed them. I have lost count of the many petty crises that I was helpless to resolve, and of the people whose actions I could not understand. There were others, of course. Good people. People with whom I felt a kinship...whose lives I could not save. I found myself asking what it was all for. Why try if I was doomed to fail in the end? But then I recalled Grandfather's words to my father, years ago, before he left Sharlayan behind forever.
'''Alisaie:''' "To ignore the plight of those one who might conceivably save is not wisdom - it is indolence. We must all protect that which we hold most dear in the manner of our own choosing." ...We have to try, do we not? Of course, it's one thing to try and another to do. There were times while I was tracking the Warriors of Darkness when I faltered - when I was afraid. But then I thought of my brother, of Urianger... Ah, pray forgive me. The conversation has been rather one-sided, hasn't it. Mayhap you could recount some of your adventures in Ishgard?
'''Warrior of Light:''' (I traveled far and wide with two companions, Estinen and Ysayle, who were very.../Under some rather unique circumstances, I had the pleasure to fight alongside Ser Aymeric... / When Alphinaud and I came at last to the Dravanian hinterlands...) -> When Alphinaud and I came at last to the Dravanian hinterlands...
'''Alisaie:''' We had no clear memories of our life in the hinterlands, having returned to the motherlands as infants. Nevertheless, I am quite familiar with Master Matoya, as is every Sharlayan. I should like to speak with her someday. 'Twould not surprise me if Alphinaud's recent maturation was at least somewhat due to her sage guidance. I would never tell him this, of course, but there have been moments when I've caught myself thinking of him as an ''elder brother''... The hopes and dreams of so many rest on your shoulders, Warrior of Light. As long as the sun rises, we can but carry on. For the sake of those we hold dear. (''Alphinaud looks on'')

===Cutscene to Warrior of Darkness===
'''Masked Man:''' (''Warrior of Darkness is holding an orange, glowing crystal''). To what end dost thou cling to the tainted gifts of the Mother?
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' Every tool has its purpose. Even this. Well, what is it?
'''Masked Man:''' The seeds sown in Vylbrand have been plucked from the earth and left to wither. Alas, Titan's demise sufficed not to drive the kobolds to deepest desperation.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' What did the man in white have to say?
'''Masked Man:''' That we are to proceed as he did first set forth.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' (''Pounds the railing in front of him'') Well that's easy for him to say! It's not ''his'' bloody world on the brink of destruction, is it?
'''Masked Man:''' Be thou well reminded that with an end to Ishgard's unrest, naught now remaineth to preoccupy the Scion's thoughts. And thus may they devote their every energy to thwarting thee and thine. I foresee only greater difficulties ahead.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' Foresee? Are you sure you don't ''welcome them''? I'm starting to think you might hold a candle for your old friends, after all...
'''Masked Man:''' Pray do not mistake mine intent. I but look upon the path which lieth before us with due trepidation. Shouldst thou be of like mind, pray consider, then, another course, for the power to invoke the Ardor belongeth not unto the Ascians alone. With thine own hand, strike down thine enemy - the so-called hero who would see thy home lost to Light. Do but this and thou wouldst, at a single stroke, disrupt the all to delicate balance of this realm, plunging (him/her) straightways into chaos.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' You do realize what you're suggesting, yes?
'''Masked Man:''' "To ignore the plight of those one might conceivably save is not wisdom - it is indolence." The words of my teacher, and a creed I hold close to my heart.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' Very well. Draw her out. We'll make it quick.
'''Masked Man:''' It shall be done. (''Warrior of Darkness leaves''). Waht good a creed one cannot uphold? What hurts soothed, what lives saved... O hapless foo, what hast thou wrought by thine own hands? Minfilia, my friends - I shall not now beg your forgiveness. Full deeply though it paineth me to walk it, I shall not stray from my chosen path. As Moenbryda remained steadfast, so too shall I...

===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' What ho, [Forename]. I trust you had a good night's rest? I was but this moment speaking with Thancred and Y'shtola via linkpearl. They had some interesting news to share. Apparently, during the course of their respective investigations, both came across crates which had once borne Ishgardian seals. 'Twould seem that someone in the capital has been very busy indeed. Accordingly, the Temple Knights have launched a full-scale investigation. Ser Aymeric believes that it is only a matter of time before the culprits are found, but we shall have to wait and see. In the meantime, it seems only prudent to look into the recent activities of the other tribes, in case they too are flush with Ishgardian crystals. And with that in mind, I suggest we pay Urianger another - Wait. Where is Alisaie? She was here a moment ago...with Ga Bu.

===Speak with Alisaie===
'''Alisaie:''' Ah, let me guess: it's time to leave, isn't it? My apologies for disappearing again. If it is any consolation, I have already packed my things. ...How is he? (''Alphinaud and Bloeidin walk up''). Brother. Commander Bloeidin. Something tells me you are not solely here out of concern for his welfare. But to answer your question, there has been no change. He will not speak or eat - I'm not even sure if he slept. If he did, he seems none the better for it. He just...shuffles about with that same expression on his face... You ''will'' look after him, won't you, Commander - and treat him with ''every kindness''? He's still in there. I know it. Beneath the anguish and despair, he's still fighting with all his heart. He deserves to be given that chance. Until he comes back to us - until we know for ''certain'' what has become of him.
'''Bloeidin:''' Aye, aye, you needn't worry. If he hadn't risked his neck to warn us and help you secure the better part of the crystals, this could've turned out a damn sight worse than it did. We'll not soon forget that, and nor will Maelstrom Command.
'''Alisaie:''' (''Kneels and faces Ga Bu''). I'm so sorry, Ga Bu. I truly am. You should never have been made to... And I know I cannot possibly understand... Mayhap there is nothing I can do or say. The pain, the anger....the helplessness... ...Hold fast to the memories of better times. Remember them as they were. And when it hurts so much your heart feels fit to burst, let it burst. Let it burst, and fill up again with your love for them. And never, ever forget.
'''Bloedin:''' ...Come along, little one.
'''Ga Bu:''' I...I will remember them. And you, Alisaie. Thank you... ...
'''Alphinaud:''' Have faith, Sister. Your words have reached him. In time, he will recover... And those who orchestrated these events will be made to answer for their crimes.
'''Alisaie:''' A thousand times over, aye. There will be a reckoning.

===Return to [[the Waking Sands]]===
'''Urianger:''' We have heard the glad tidings from O'Ghomoro, my friends. By the grace of the Twelve and your most valiant efforts, the people of Limsa Lominsa may rest easy.
'''Alphinaud:''' I should like to think so, yes. Though we failed to prevent the Lord of Crags from manifesting, we did succeed in weakening him, enabling our friend to dispatch him before the Warriors of Darkness could make matters worse. 'Twas by no means an unmitigated successs, but it will have to suffice.
'''Urianger:''' Then let us speak of another matter - one which weigheth heavy on my lady's mind. As thou did request, I sought out ''The Gerun Oracles'', that we might better understand the aims of the Warriors of Darkness. Though their copious use of allegory defieth any single interpretation, the oracles paint a most disturbing picture - one of worlds parallel to our own, apart yet linked, reduced to ruin with every Umbral Calamity...
'''Alphinaud:''' "Seven times have they succeed." Then of ten and three, only six worlds remain.
'''Urianger:''' Aye. All is as my lady Minfilia spake unto thee. As for what becometh of these reflections when they and the Source are rejoined.... "Frail flesh undone in Umbral fires, Each soul surrend'reth to Her call, To each flow unto the endless sea, There to endure as one and none."
'''Alphinaud:''' Then...then if the Warriors of Darkness succeed, everyone in their world will ''die''?
'''Urianger:''' In essence, aye. The verse speaketh of the renunciation of the flesh, and subsequent return to the Lifestream. However, this fate may yet be preferable to the alternative, for if the First were to fall to transcendent Light in the manner the Warriors of Darkness described, it would give way unto a void wherein none may know either life or death. Far better to die, they reason - for in death there is life. The essence of a soul which returneth unto the Source may be born anew. Saved. Such, at least, is their belief, I surmise.
'''Alphinaud:''' If that is true, then... Gods. No one should ever have to make such a choice.
'''Urianger:''' ...Ere we speak further on this subject, I would share with thee another recent discovery. 'Twould seem that several sizable shipments of crystals have been delivered into the hands of certain Ala Mhigan parties.
'''Alphinaud:''' Ala Mhigans? Strange... And you believe this to be the work of the same Ishgardian smugglers who supplied the beast tribes?
'''Urianger:''' I know beyond a shadow of a doubt. And lest thou wonder at their motive, I would remind you that the Ascians did once attempt to bring about the summoning of ''Rhalgr''. The individuals who took receipt of these shipments are refugees belonging to a group devoted to the cause of Ala Mhigan liberation. It may also interest thee to know that their Ishgardian suppliers appear to be none other than the remnants of Elline Roaille's network of spies.
'''Alphinaud:''' Surely you jest...And yet...it is not so surprising. Bereft of leadership and hunted by the Alliance, I can well imagine such villains being desperate enough to conspire with the Ascians. Assuming they even know - or care - who their new employers are. All of which is irrelevant. Forgive me. We must seek out the Resistance group which received the crystals without delay. [Forename], Alisaie - will you come with me to Little Ala Mhigo?
'''Alisaie:''' (''Glances at Urianger''). Yes, of course. I should like to hear what they have to say for themselves. Firsthand.
'''Urianger:''' May you ever walk in the light of the Crystal.

'''Thancred:''' (''Contacting Alphinaud via linkpearl'') Alphinaud, Alisaie, [Forename] - are you three listening? Good. I have tidings. The Temple Knights raided the smuggler's warehouse less than an hour ago. A cursory interrogation of the prisoners yielded confirmation that they were int he employ of - and I hope you are sitting down - a man in black robes.
'''Alphinaud:''' Then you have them? And the crystals too?
'''Thancred:''' What few remained, aye. Regrettably, it would seem they dispatched one final shipment in the hours before we struck. 'Twas bound for Little Ala Mhigo, we are told, where it will be received by members of a local Resistance group. Since Ser Aymeric's men no longer have need of my services, I have a mind to head that way.
'''Alphinaud:''' As do we, by happy coincidence. We learned of the shipments but a few moments ago.
'''Thancred:''' Hah! And there I was thinking I might finally be one step ahead of the Warrior of Light and (his/her) little helpers. ...Ah! Wait a moment! There is more! And I defy you not to be surprised by ''this'' revelation. The leader of the Ishgardian smugglers was formerly in the employ of one Eline Roaille - the infamous Ivy herself!
'''Alphinaud:''' Once again, Thancred, I fear I must inform you that -
'''Alisaie:''' Thancred - with whom else have you shared this information?
'''Thancred:''' About the smugglers? No one. As I think I mentioned, the raid was less than an hour ago. I was planning to contact Y'shtola next, but is there someone else you would have me notify first?
'''Alisaie:''' No...there isn't.

===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' What in the world has gotten into her? It is twice now we have sought Urianger's aid, and twice she has treated him as if he were a stranger. The Archon was one of Grandfather's most dedicated pupils, and spent as much time at the Leveilleur estate as we did. He's practically a member of the family! Truth be told, I struggle to recall a day from my childhood when I did not see the three of them laughing together. If this continues, I may have to raise the matter. Later, though - Little Ala Mhigo awaits.

===Speak with [[Alisaie]] in [[Little Ala Mhigo]]===
'''Alisaie:''' I will get to the bottom of this... Oh, forgive me. I was...It has been a long day. Did you have something to say? Urianger? Oh, I...I've always struggled to understand what's going on in his head. Now more than ever. Listen, [Forename] - if anything should happen, it should be me who...just know that I am prepared to do what must be done. Right, then. To more pressing matters. Since we have no idea when Thancred might arrive, I suggest we see what information we can gather in his absence.

Beneath a Star-filled Sky

2024-05-08T17:13:34Z

Azryyal: fix heading

{{Quest infobox
| title = Beneath a Star-filled Sky
| description = [[Alphinaud]] would rather not worry about what may or may not come to pass.
| quest-giver = Alphinaud
| location = Outer La Noscea
| location-x = 20.6
| location-y = 16.9
| type = main scenario
| quest-line = Post-Dragonsong Main Scenario Quests
| level = 60
| exp = 5000
| gil = 1,670
| prev-quest = The Beast That Mourned at the Heart of the Mountain
| next-quest = When We Were Free
| patch = 3.4
| release = Heavensward
| msq-index = 366
}}

==Steps==
*Speak with [[Bloeidin]].
*Speak with [[Alphinaud]].
*Search for [[Alisaie]].
*Return to [[the Waking Sands]].
*Speak with [[Alphinaud]].
*Speak with [[Alisaie]] in [[Little Ala Mhigo]].

==Journal==
*Disinclined to dwell on the unpleasant question of [[Ga Bu]]'s fate, [[Alphinaud]] bids you apprise the [[Maelstrom]] of your victory over [[Titan]]. Yet as pleased as Commander [[Bloeidin]] will be to hear the news, he will inevitably demand that a decision be made...

*Commander Bloeidin is greatly relieved to hear that you have spared him the burden of sending good men to their deaths. In a show of gratitude, he invites you to stay the night and celebrate with the Maelstrom forces, and you accept -- yet as the evening wears on, you become aware that [[Alisaie]] is nowhere to be seen. You find her outside the camp enjoying a moment of quiet solitude with Ga Bu, and after joining her, she tells you of her struggle to understand [[Louisoix Leveilleur|her grandfather]]'s motivations and to find her own path having parted ways with her brother. The story of her journey seems more than a little familiar, as does the answer she found at the end of it: that in a world where high-minded ideals and earnest efforts all too often fall short, where the good suffer and the evil prosper, one must nevertheless aspire to a higher ideal. Her heart thus unburdened, Alisaie bids you share some tales of your time in the north, and you duly recount an adventure near and dear to your heart. Looking up into the starry night, you reflect on your own journey and what drives you to carry on...

*In the morning, you find Alphinaud packed and ready to depart. He reveals that he has been in contact with [[Thancred]] and [[Y'shtola]], both of whom have apparently discovered crates bearing defaced [[Ishgard]]ian seals during the course of their investigations. Armed with this information, Alphinaud thinks it prudent to consult with [[Urianger]] once more, and is eager to take to the road. Alisaie, however, is nowhere to be found -- and neither, you realize, is Ga Bu.

*No child should be forced to confront death firsthand, much less that of a parent. Though she knows she can never truly understand the depths of his despair, Alisaie takes a moment to comfort Ga Bu one final time. Having given up hope of eliciting a response, she surrenders him into Commander Bloeidin's care, entreating him to show the young [[kobold]] every kindness. But in that instant, the child breaks his silence, thanking Alisaie for everything she has done. All is not lost -- Ga Bu may one day recover from his trauma. With hope in your hearts, you set forth for [[Thanalan]].

*Back at [[the Waking Sands]], Urianger shares his latest findings. Per Alisaie's request, he has studied [[The Gerun Oracles]] and discovered a passage which suggests that a [[Rejoining]] would result in the deaths of all those living upon a reflection of the [[The Source|Source]]. Yet in death there is seemingly life as their souls would then be returned to the Source, where they might be reborn anew. Drastic as it sounds, Urianger speculates this may yet be preferable to the alternative, for it is possible that a world which falls to transcendent Light or Dark may ultimately be transformed into an unfathomable void.

*Even as you pause to contemplate the implications of these theories, Urianger reveals that the Ishgardian smugglers supplying the beast tribes with crystals have been identified as remnants of the criminal network established by [[Eline Roaille]] -- the infamous [[Garlean]] spymaster, the Ivy. What is more, the group has recently supplied crystals to another party: refugees devoted to the cause of [[Ala Mhigo|Ala Mhigan]] liberation. Wasting no time, Alphinaud bids you and Alisaie accompany him to [[Little Ala Mhigo]] to track down the shipment's recipients and find out what they intend.

*As you round the corner and head for the exit, you and the twins are contacted via linkpearl by Thancred, who proudly informs you of the latest developments in Ishgard. When he subsequently hears that you have obtained the same information, however, his disappointment is palpable. A troubled Alisaie then confirms that the raid on the smugglers' hideout was conducted less than an hour before, and that only a select few should know the group's true identity, and the destination of their final shipment...

*Alphinaud is unsure what to make of his sister's recent behavior towards Urianger, the two of them having always been quite close. As one of Louisoix's most dedicated pupils, Urianger was practically a member of the family. Yet her treatment of the [[Archon]] during your past several visits has suggested nothing of the sort. On the contrary, her words and actions seem to indicate a deep-seated suspicion. But why?

*Having spent the journey to Little Ala Mhigo turning the mystery over and over in your mind, you press Alisaie for an explanation, but find her reluctant to say anything more than that she is prepared “to do what must be done.” Whatever has passed between her and Urianger remains unclear for now, but you sense it will not be long before the truth comes out -- for better or for worse.

==Dialogue==
===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' There is naught to be gained from dwelling on an eventuality over which we have no control, much less one which may never even come to pass. Let us tend to the more immediate matters - informing Commander Bloeidin of Titan's demise, for example. You may be certain that he will be glad of the news. Would you be so kind as to break it to him?

===Speak with Bloeidin===
'''Bloeidin:''' Ah, you're a sight for sore eyes! When the others came back without you, I feared the worst, but they said you had matters well in hand. All is settled then, is it? I'm glad to hear it. But not as half as glad as my men'll be, believe you me! Regardless of whether or not he was summoned properly, a primal's a primal. And there ain't a soul in the Maelstrom that hasn't lost a friend to one. Don't get me wrong, like - we were all prepared to do our part. But we weren't so naive as to think we'd live to tell the tale. Thankfully, of course, it didn't come to that - which, my friend, sounds to me like cause for celebration! Now, I know you lot have places to be, but why not stay the night? We'd be honored to raise a glass to the trimuphant return of Titan's Bane!

===Cutscene to nighttime===
'''Alisaie:''' Who goes there? (''Alisaie notices Warrior of Light, who had followed Alisaie as she walked off''). Oh, it's you. Forgive me for straying from the camp. He hasn't been feeling too welcome, to say the least. I thought a change of scenery might do him good, but, alas... (''Warrior of Light walks over and sits next to Alisaie''). It's so quiet out here. The stars spread out before us, beckoning across time and space... "Dawn may banish even the darkest night." How bitterly beautiful, those words. I should be stronger for all my experiences, yet my heart aches more than ever. I never understood why Grandfather gave his life that day. I thought that, if I came here, I would find the answers I needed. But when I finally laid eye son the land he sacrificed everything to save, saw firsthand the bickering, the pettiness... I was disappointed. I was ''angry''. I could not fathom how these people were more deserving of his love than his family...than me... Nevertheless, I had to believe he had good reason. I was determined to uncover the whole truth of the Calamity, and perhaps in doing so find my own purpose in this sea of chaos. My travels have been enlightening, but I cannot say that I have enjoyed them. I have lost count of the many petty crises that I was helpless to resolve, and of the people whose actions I could not understand. There were others, of course. Good people. People with whom I felt a kinship...whose lives I could not save. I found myself asking what it was all for. Why try if I was doomed to fail in the end? But then I recalled Grandfather's words to my father, years ago, before he left Sharlayan behind forever.
'''Alisaie:''' "To ignore the plight of those one who might conceivably save is not wisdom - it is indolence. We must all protect that which we hold most dear in the manner of our own choosing." ...We have to try, do we not? Of course, it's one thing to try and another to do. There were times while I was tracking the Warriors of Darkness when I faltered - when I was afraid. But then I thought of my brother, of Urianger... Ah, pray forgive me. The conversation has been rather one-sided, hasn't it. Mayhap you could recount some of your adventures in Ishgard?
'''Warrior of Light:''' (I traveled far and wide with two companions, Estinen and Ysayle, who were very.../Under some rather unique circumstances, I had the pleasure to fight alongside Ser Aymeric... / When Alphinaud and I came at last to the Dravanian hinterlands...) -> When Alphinaud and I came at last to the Dravanian hinterlands...
''''Alisaie:''' We had no clear memories of our life in the hinterlands, having returned to the motherlands as infants. Nevertheless, I am quite familiar with Master Matoya, as is every Sharlayan. I should like to speak with her someday. 'Twould not surprise me if Alphinaud's recent maturation was at least somewhat due to her sage guidance. I would never tell him this, of course, but there have been moments when I've caught myself thinking of him as an ''elder brother''... The hopes and dreams of so many rest on your shoulders, Warrior of Light. As long as the sun rises, we can but carry on. For the sake of those we hold dear. (''Alphinaud looks on'')

===Cutscene to Warrior of Darkness===
'''Masked Man:''' (''Warrior of Darkness is holding an orange, glowing crystal''). To what end dost thou cling to the tainted gifts of the Mother?
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' Every tool has its purpose. Even this. Well, what is it?
'''Masked Man:''' The seeds sown in Vylbrand have been plucked from the earth and left to wither. Alas, Titan's demise sufficed not to drive the kobolds to deepest desperation.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' What did the man in white have to say?
'''Masked Man:''' That we are to proceed as he did first set forth.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' (''Pounds the railing in front of him'') Well that's easy for him to say! It's not ''his'' bloody world on the brink of destruction, is it?
'''Masked Man:''' Be thou well reminded that with an end to Ishgard's unrest, naught now remaineth to preoccupy the Scion's thoughts. And thus may they devote their every energy to thwarting thee and thine. I foresee only greater difficulties ahead.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' Foresee? Are you sure you don't ''welcome them''? I'm starting to think you might hold a candle for your old friends, after all...
'''Masked Man:''' Pray do not mistake mine intent. I but look upon the path which lieth before us with due trepidation. Shouldst thou be of like mind, pray consider, then, another course, for the power to invoke the Ardor belongeth not unto the Ascians alone. With thine own hand, strike down thine enemy - the so-called hero who would see thy home lost to Light. Do but this and thou wouldst, at a single stroke, disrupt the all to delicate balance of this realm, plunging (him/her) straightways into chaos.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' You do realize what you're suggesting, yes?
'''Masked Man:''' "To ignore the plight of those one might conceivably save is not wisdom - it is indolence." The words of my teacher, and a creed I hold close to my heart.
'''Warrior of Darkness:''' Very well. Draw her out. We'll make it quick.
'''Masked Man:''' It shall be done. (''Warrior of Darkness leaves''). Waht good a creed one cannot uphold? What hurts soothed, what lives saved... O hapless foo, what hast thou wrought by thine own hands? Minfilia, my friends - I shall not now beg your forgiveness. Full deeply though it paineth me to walk it, I shall not stray from my chosen path. As Moenbryda remained steadfast, so too shall I...

===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' What ho, [Forename]. I trust you had a good night's rest? I was but this moment speaking with Thancred and Y'shtola via linkpearl. They had some interesting news to share. Apparently, during the course of their respective investigations, both came across crates which had once borne Ishgardian seals. 'Twould seem that someone in the capital has been very busy indeed. Accordingly, the Temple Knights have launched a full-scale investigation. Ser Aymeric believes that it is only a matter of time before the culprits are found, but we shall have to wait and see. In the meantime, it seems only prudent to look into the recent activities of the other tribes, in case they too are flush with Ishgardian crystals. And with that in mind, I suggest we pay Urianger another - Wait. Where is Alisaie? She was here a moment ago...with Ga Bu.

===Speak with Alisaie===
'''Alisaie:''' Ah, let me guess: it's time to leave, isn't it? My apologies for disappearing again. If it is any consolation, I have already packed my things. ...How is he? (''Alphinaud and Bloeidin walk up''). Brother. Commander Bloeidin. Something tells me you are not solely here out of concern for his welfare. But to answer your question, there has been no change. He will not speak or eat - I'm not even sure if he slept. If he did, he seems none the better for it. He just...shuffles about with that same expression on his face... You ''will'' look after him, won't you, Commander - and treat him with ''every kindness''? He's still in there. I know it. Beneath the anguish and despair, he's still fighting with all his heart. He deserves to be given that chance. Until he comes back to us - until we know for ''certain'' what has become of him.
'''Bloeidin:''' Aye, aye, you needn't worry. If he hadn't risked his neck to warn us and help you secure the better part of the crystals, this could've turned out a damn sight worse than it did. We'll not soon forget that, and nor will Maelstrom Command.
'''Alisaie:''' (''Kneels and faces Ga Bu''). I'm so sorry, Ga Bu. I truly am. You should never have been made to... And I know I cannot possibly understand... Mayhap there is nothing I can do or say. The pain, the anger....the helplessness... ...Hold fast to the memories of better times. Remember them as they were. And when it hurts so much your heart feels fit to burst, let it burst. Let it burst, and fill up again with your love for them. And never, ever forget.
'''Bloedin:''' ...Come along, little one.
'''Ga Bu:''' I...I will remember them. And you, Alisaie. Thank you... ...
'''Alphinaud:''' Have faith, Sister. Your words have reached him. In time, he will recover... And those who orchestrated these events will be made to answer for their crimes.
'''Alisaie:''' A thousand times over, aye. There will be a reckoning.

===Return to [[the Waking Sands]]===
'''Urianger:''' We have heard the glad tidings from O'Ghomoro, my friends. By the grace of the Twelve and your most valiant efforts, the people of Limsa Lominsa may rest easy.
'''Alphinaud:''' I should like to think so, yes. Though we failed to prevent the Lord of Crags from manifesting, we did succeed in weakening him, enabling our friend to dispatch him before the Warriors of Darkness could make matters worse. 'Twas by no means an unmitigated successs, but it will have to suffice.
'''Urianger:''' Then let us speak of another matter - one which weigheth heavy on my lady's mind. As thou did request, I sought out ''The Gerun Oracles'', that we might better understand the aims of the Warriors of Darkness. Though their copious use of allegory defieth any single interpretation, the oracles paint a most disturbing picture - one of worlds parallel to our own, apart yet linked, reduced to ruin with every Umbral Calamity...
'''Alphinaud:''' "Seven times have they succeed." Then of ten and three, only six worlds remain.
'''Urianger:''' Aye. All is as my lady Minfilia spake unto thee. As for what becometh of these reflections when they and the Source are rejoined.... "Frail flesh undone in Umbral fires, Each soul surrend'reth to Her call, To each flow unto the endless sea, There to endure as one and none."
'''Alphinaud:''' Then...then if the Warriors of Darkness succeed, everyone in their world will ''die''?
'''Urianger:''' In essence, aye. The verse speaketh of the renunciation of the flesh, and subsequent return to the Lifestream. However, this fate may yet be preferable to the alternative, for if the First were to fall to transcendent Light in the manner the Warriors of Darkness described, it would give way unto a void wherein none may know either life or death. Far better to die, they reason - for in death there is life. The essence of a soul which returneth unto the Source may be born anew. Saved. Such, at least, is their belief, I surmise.
'''Alphinaud:''' If that is true, then... Gods. No one should ever have to make such a choice.
'''Urianger:''' ...Ere we speak further on this subject, I would share with thee another recent discovery. 'Twould seem that several sizable shipments of crystals have been delivered into the hands of certain Ala Mhigan parties.
'''Alphinaud:''' Ala Mhigans? Strange... And you believe this to be the work of the same Ishgardian smugglers who supplied the beast tribes?
'''Urianger:''' I know beyond a shadow of a doubt. And lest thou wonder at their motive, I would remind you that the Ascians did once attempt to bring about the summoning of ''Rhalgr''. The individuals who took receipt of these shipments are refugees belonging to a group devoted to the cause of Ala Mhigan liberation. It may also interest thee to know that their Ishgardian suppliers appear to be none other than the remnants of Elline Roaille's network of spies.
'''Alphinaud:''' Surely you jest...And yet...it is not so surprising. Bereft of leadership and hunted by the Alliance, I can well imagine such villains being desperate enough to conspire with the Ascians. Assuming they even know - or care - who their new employers are. All of which is irrelevant. Forgive me. We must seek out the Resistance group which received the crystals without delay. [Forename], Alisaie - will you come with me to Little Ala Mhigo?
'''Alisaie:''' (''Glances at Urianger''). Yes, of course. I should like to hear what they have to say for themselves. Firsthand.
'''Urianger:''' May you ever walk in the light of the Crystal.

'''Thancred:''' (''Contacting Alphinaud via linkpearl'') Alphinaud, Alisaie, [Forename] - are you three listening? Good. I have tidings. The Temple Knights raided the smuggler's warehouse less than an hour ago. A cursory interrogation of the prisoners yielded confirmation that they were int he employ of - and I hope you are sitting down - a man in black robes.
'''Alphinaud:''' Then you have them? And the crystals too?
'''Thancred:''' What few remained, aye. Regrettably, it would seem they dispatched one final shipment in the hours before we struck. 'Twas bound for Little Ala Mhigo, we are told, where it will be received by members of a local Resistance group. Since Ser Aymeric's men no longer have need of my services, I have a mind to head that way.
'''Alphinaud:''' As do we, by happy coincidence. We learned of the shipments but a few moments ago.
'''Thancred:''' Hah! And there I was thinking I might finally be one step ahead of the Warrior of Light and (his/her) little helpers. ...Ah! Wait a moment! There is more! And I defy you not to be surprised by ''this'' revelation. The leader of the Ishgardian smugglers was formerly in the employ of one Eline Roaille - the infamous Ivy herself!
'''Alphinaud:''' Once again, Thancred, I fear I must inform you that -
'''Alisaie:''' Thancred - with whom else have you shared this information?
'''Thancred:''' About the smugglers? No one. As I think I mentioned, the raid was less than an hour ago. I was planning to contact Y'shtola next, but is there someone else you would have me notify first?
'''Alisaie:''' No...there isn't.

===Speak with Alphinaud===
'''Alphinaud:''' What in the world has gotten into her? It is twice now we have sought Urianger's aid, and twice she has treated him as if he were a stranger. The Archon was one of Grandfather's most dedicated pupils, and spent as much time at the Leveilleur estate as we did. He's practically a member of the family! Truth be told, I struggle to recall a day from my childhood when I did not see the three of them laughing together. If this continues, I may have to raise the matter. Later, though - Little Ala Mhigo awaits.

===Speak with [[Alisaie]] in [[Little Ala Mhigo]]===
'''Alisaie:''' I will get to the bottom of this... Oh, forgive me. I was...It has been a long day. Did you have something to say? Urianger? Oh, I...I've always struggled to understand what's going on in his head. Now more than ever. Listen, [Forename] - if anything should happen, it should be me who...just know that I am prepared to do what must be done. Right, then. To more pressing matters. Since we have no idea when Thancred might arrive, I suggest we see what information we can gather in his absence.