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Hostages to Fortune

2026-05-19T16:31:20Z

WhyContainIt: /* Searching for Philota's grandson north of Proud Creek (Cutscene) */ Added dialogue bit if you talk to the Bow before Philota's Grandson

{{Quest infobox
| title = Hostages to Fortune
| description = The [[Deputy Postmoogle]] holds out a soil-stained letter, suspiciously blemished with beak marks.
| image = Hostages to Fortune.png
| quest-giver = Deputy Postmoogle
| related-npcs = Gods' Quiver Bow; Ireine; Isaudorel; Ixali Headwing; Ixali Wing; Miah Molkot; Philota; Philota's Grandson
| location = Limsa Lominsa Lower Decks
| location-x = 10.4
| location-y = 11.3
| type = side
| quest-line = Delivery Moogle Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Side Story Quests
| journal-genre = Delivery Moogle Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 50
| req-quest =
| req-items = 1 Letter to Miah Molkot
| requirements =
| exp = 0
| gil = 799
| mettle =
| reward(1-10) =
| overridereward(1-10) =
| reward-opt1 = 3 Pineapple Juice
| reward-opt2 = 3 Apkallu Omelette
| reward-opt3 = 3 Rolanberry Cheesecake
| reward-opt4 = 3 Dzemael Gratin
| reward-opt5 = 3 Allagan Bronze Piece
| overridereward-opt(1-8) =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest =
| next-quest =
| patch = 2.5
| release =
| id-gt = 67111
| id-edb = c2c4a0462ad
}}
==Steps==
*Deliver the letter to [[Miah Molkot]] at [[Eugenia's Spire]].
*Assist the Gods' Quiver bow in [[Treespeak]].
*Speak with the Gods' Quiver bow.
*Find the [[Ixali Headwing]] in Treespeak.
*Speak with [[Philota]] on the cliffs east of [[Fallgourd Float]].
*Report to Miah Molkot.
*Speak with Philota in [[the Bobbing Cork]].
*Report to Miah Molkot.
*Search for [[Philota's Grandson]] north of [[Proud Creek]].
*Rendezvous with the Gods' Quiver bow at Eugenia's Spire.
*Speak with Philota at the Bobbing Cork.
*Speak with Miah Molkot.

==Journal==
*The deputy postmoogle holds out a soil-stained letter, suspiciously blemished with beak marks.

*The deputy postmoogle asks you to deliver a letter to the beautiful North Shroud, the playground of his own happy mooglinghood. Or to be more accurate, redeliver it: the moogle who preceded you was ambushed by the Ixal, and barely escaped with his pom-pom still attached. The deputy postmoogle bids you make a second attempt: brave the Ixali gauntlet to Eugenia's Spire, and place the letter in the unyielding hands of Miah Molkot, ferocious leader of the White Rams.

*Miah scans the note, and licks her lips at the happy news within: her dear friend Philota and the lady's young grandson are to visit. But delight soon turns to alarm when she realizes that the day of their expected arrival has come and gone. Fearing the malign intervention of the Ixal, she bids you seek out her man in Treespeak, slaying any birdman you should encounter along the way.

*In Treespeak, you meet with Miah's man─a Gods' Quiver bowman who has fallen into an Ixali ambush. You swiftly defeat his attackers, but the man is still reeling from the birdman assault. Offer the injured bowman your aid.

*As you tend to the wounded archer, another Ixal leaps from the brush, swinging his axe. Just as he is about to strike, a familiar figure appears: Miah Molkot. Terrified at the fate that awaits him at the hands of the famous Black Cat, the Ixal proffers a deal: in exchange for his life, he and his comrades will find Philota and her grandson, and return them unharmed. He bids you speak with his leader by the river bend, to whom he will deliver Miah's friends.

*You make contact with the Ixali headwing, but he refuses to honor his subordinate's unauthorized pledge. Instead, he presents you with an ultimatum for the White Rams: the Ixal hold Philota and her grandson hostage, and demand to be given free rein in the Twelveswood until such time as they complete a secret objective. As proof of their word, Philota is to be released in advance, on the cliffs overlooking Fallgourd Float. Go to her, and ensure her safety.

*The Ixal spoke the truth: on the cliffside stands Philota, shaken yet unharmed. She confirms that the Ixal do indeed have her grandson in their clutches, and bids you return to Eugenia's Spire to enlist Miah's aid in the boy's rescue.

*You report to Miah Molkot, who vows to devote her all to the rescue effort. She tells you how Philota's son was the leader of the White Rams before his untimely passing, and the child held hostage is his son in turn. For the Ixal to have kidnapped the boy is an insult to the White Rams' honor, and Miah will stop at nothing until those responsible are brought to her own personal brand of justice. She asks you to return to Philota, now resting at the Bobbing Cork, and assure her that her grandson will be saved.

*Philota is reassured by Miah's zeal, but fears her personal involvement in this case may drive the White Rams' leader beyond her usual exuberance and into recklessness. She asks you to return to Eugenia's Spire, and urge Miah not to take any unnecessary risks.

*You explain Philota's misgivings to Miah Molkot, but restraint is no longer an option for the maddened Miqo'te. Not only have the Ixal been taunting the White Rams by roaming the Twelveswood at will, using the boy as a shield, they now appear to be repairing to their own lands with the child in tow. Just as Miah is about to give the order to strike, a message comes from her scouts: true to their word, the Ixal have released Philota's grandson near Proud Creek. Fearing for his safety, Miah urges you to assist her men in finding the child before something more dastardly does.

*Despite the White Rams' best efforts, it is your eagle eye that first picks out Philota's grandson. He explains to you how the Ixal who held him hostage were not an invasion force, but a rescue team, hunting for a missing hatchling. Furthermore, the chieftain who released the boy left behind some strange words that seem to relate to some forgotten past. But Proud Creek is no place to linger in thought─you link up with another of the search team, who agrees to convey the boy back to the relative safety of Eugenia's Spire. Rendezvous with them there, and report these latest developments to Instructor Molkot.

*You meet with the bowman back at Eugenia's Spire, but all is not well. Despite the pleas of her soft-hearted subordinate, Miah Molkot is determined to take revenge on the Ixali rescue team, and strike them down before they reach the border─hatchling and all. The bowman urges you to speak with Philota at the Bobbing Cork and explain the situation, that she might convince the ruthless instructor to call off the attack.

*You relay the events to Philota, who vows to do all she can to persuade Miah to be merciful. She asks you to return with all haste to Eugenia's Spire, and delay the attack until she arrives.

*You return to the Spire in time to hear Miah giving the final order to set upon the retreating Ixal. But just as the bowmen are about to depart, Philota arrives to relate a fateful tale from the past. Twenty years earlier, the White Rams, under the leadership of Philota's late son, released Ixali hatchlings to secure the safety of a young girl─a girl by the name of Miah Molkot. By the Ixali headwing's words, he could only be one of those hatchlings whose life was spared in exchange for hers. Unwilling to sever the ties of destiny put in place by her master so long before, Miah Molkot calls off the attack. And so, after twenty long years, a temporary truce returns to the Twelveswood.

==Dialogue==
===Accepting the quest===
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' [Forename]! The very vassal I was looking for, kupo! I need you to take a letter to Eugenia's Spire in the North Shroud. The wood where your dear leader─that's me─was born and raised!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' It needs to be delivered to Miah Molkot, leader of the White Rams. Officially, they're an offshoot of the Gods' Quiver, but in practice they're Miss Molkot's private army. The Ixal call her the Black Cat─whenever she crosses their path, they're sure to meet with an unfortunate end, kupo!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' Truth be told, this isn't the first time we've tried to deliver this letter. I entrusted it to another subordinate of mine─a delivery moogle on his very first mission. But he got chased away by the birdmen, and fluttered back, hiding his face under his pom-pom.
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' He simply wasn't cut out for such a trying task. But who is, I thought? Who best to dispatch into Ixal-infested forest, and explain the letter's lateness to the fiery-tempered Miss Molkot? Guess whose name sprang to mind... Here's the letter, [Forename]─off you pop, kupo!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' I've half a mind to deliver this letter myself, kupo! Did I ever tell you that I was born and raised in that very area─the lush forests around Eugenia's Spire? Oh, those happy days, when my fledgling friends and I would leap from the tower and float gently to the ground! You should try it, kupo!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' ...But only after you've completed your delivery. The letter is addressed to Miah Molkot, commander of the White Rams. Please be aware that Miss Molkot is something of a force of nature─she may not appreciate the letter's lateness, kupo. You do have a full set of armor, don't you?

===Delivering the letter to Miah Molkot at Eugenia's Spire===
'''Miah Molkot:''' You seek Miah Molkot? I am she. Instructor of the Gods' Quiver, commander of the White Rams, and bane of any feathered fiend who dares poke his beak in the Twelveswood.
'''Miah Molkot:''' <sniff> <sniff> I know you... We've spoken before, have we not? I trust you've bagged a few birdies of your own since last we met.
'''Miah Molkot:''' [Forename], is it? What business do you have with meow? Apologies─a slip of the tongue. When I say “with meow,” I mean “with meow”... Grrr. Not meow─meow! ...Bah! What do you want!?
'''''<Hand Over Letter to Miah Molkot>'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Let me see that... Oh, how wonderful! It's a letter from Lady Philota!
'''Miah Molkot:''' The woman is like a mother to me, you see. I lost my parents when I was young, and it was she who raised me from a mewling babe. Her son was a great hero─a leader of the White Rams before me─but he too was lost in the line of duty. Ah, but let me see what news she has...
'''Miah Molkot:''' Hmmm... She says she is to visit Fallgourd Float with her dear grandson. But by the dates she gives, she should be here at this very moment. It's strange that I have had no word of their arrival...
'''Miah Molkot:''' Perhaps she simply misread her calendar... After all, she speaks of the future, but these dates are past. Tell me, adventurerrr: when was the letter posted?
'''Miah Molkot:''' Grrr! Damn those incompetent moogles! Never trust anything with wings, I say! Then these dates must be true─they ''should'' be here already. I smell the filthy hands of those blasted birdies in this!
'''Miah Molkot:''' We must send out a search party! If they came via Gridania...might they have been ambushed in Treespeak? A band of Ixal raid the area, but they're usually too chicken-hearted to approach the paths. I have a sentry there watching their movements─go to him, and ask if he has seen anything untoward.
'''Miah Molkot:''' Oh, and if you should happen to meet with any wee birdies, none shall weep if you snap their scrawny necks!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' I shall remain here, and organize the search. Head to Treespeak, and speak with my man there. If any one of those birdies has touched a silver hair on Lady Philota's head, I'll tear out their gizzards and bathe in their blood!

===Assisting the Gods' Quiver bow in Treespeak===
'''(Optional)'''
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' >> Be careful, {{alternatives|f=miss|m=sir}}! He called for reinforcements! They shall be on us at any moment! <<

===Speaking with the Gods' Quiver Bow (Cutscene)===
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> Squaaawk! Wounded featherless ones, you seek? Find them, my axe will! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' >>Hold it right there, you squawking scum! <<

'''Ixali Wing:''' Squaaawk! Good Garuda! Miah Molkot, you are! Black Cat of the White Rams! My life, you will spare, yes? Squawk...?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> You'll get no mercy from me! I'll rip off your beak and wear it as a hat! Remember our motto, soldiers: “All Ixal must die!” <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Hold a moment, ma'am... Before I was set upon, I was watching this group of Ixal for some time─they seemed to be patrolling this area. Perhaps he knows something of what befell Lady Philota and her grandson.

'''Miah Molkot:''' Grrr. All right, I'll bite. Listen up, you beaky bastard! Answer me truly, and I'll grant you a painless death. Have you seen a lady and a young boy pass through this area?

'''Ixali Wing:''' ...Squawk? Searching for white-haired elder and girlie-voiced hatchling, featherless ones are? Seen them, I have! Attacked by a nasty beastie, their caravan was. Ran from the beastie, they did, all frighty and shaking!

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Grrr! You lie! The only beasties around here that would think of raiding a caravan are you and your craven kind! <<

'''Ixali Wing:''' Caw, caw, caw... No, no, Black Cat! Only the truth, I am telling! Worth more than mine, these featherless ones' lives are? Then, maybe...a deal we are making?
'''Ixali Wing:''' My life, you spare? Your featherless friends, I catch. Release them to you, we will, scratchless and sound. A deal, we have?

'''Miah Molkot:''' Catch them? And then hold them as hostages, no doubt! I say we kill the feathered fool right now, and teach these Ixal a lesson. Right, [Forename]?

'''''< What will you say? >'''''
'''< Rip his beak off. >'''
'''< There must be some good in him. Let's agree to the deal. >'''

'''''< Rip his beak off. >'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Heh heh. I like you, boy. (But not yet─we'll let him betray his own kind first. We'll track him to see if he really knows where Lady Philota is, then you and I can pull his wishbone...) ...Listen up, beaky! If we let you go, will you keep your promise?

'''''< There must be some good in him. Let's agree to the deal. >'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' There's no good in a birdman, just blood and bile. Believe me, I've checked. But mayhap you're right─we have little to lose by releasing this wretch, and possibly much to gain... All right, beaky! If you truly swear that you will return our friends to us unharmed, we agree to your deal.

'''(Both)'''
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> Squaaawk! Spared, I am, by Molkot the Merciless? Believe it, I cannot! Well known to our kind, your cruelty is! And yet walk free, I do? Then on my honor, my word, you have! <<
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> With my headwing, I shall speak! Your smooth and wrinkly friends, together we will catch! Send word, we shall! Come to the river bend northwest of here, and your friends, we shall return! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' Urgh... How I despise listening to their feather-brained prattle. The fool knows nothing, except how to delay his death with false promises. Still, I would have you follow him to this “headwing,” just to be sure. We shall return to the spire, to see if the other parties have met with more success.

===Finding the Ixali headwing in Treespeak===
''(Optional)''
'''Miah Molkot:''' What are you doing here? Didn't I tell you to follow that birdie to the river bend? Don't make me angry, [Forename]. Someone's going to die today, and I'd rather it didn't have to be you...

'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> Squaaawk! Come to play, the Black Cat's dog has! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> For his life, the sniveling wretch begged? No true Ixal, that one is! By my own talons, punished he shall be! His craven promises, never will we honor! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> But to what I say now, listen well, featherless one: our hostages, your friends are! The old one and the young! See them again, you would? Then do my bidding, you shall! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> Within your borders, we search! Unharmed and unhindered, you will leave us! When done we are─and only then─the hostages, we shall release! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> We lie, you think? Then the truth, we prove! Set free, the wrinkled one will be! Across the river you will find her, on the cliffs over Fallgourd Float! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> A lasting truce with you, we seek not! Pains me, it does, to show mercy to the hated Molkot! But our reasons we have, and our promises we will honor, if the Black Cat will do the same... <<

===Speaking with Philota on the cliffs east of Fallgourd Float===
'''Philota:''' G-Good {{alternatives|morning=morrow|day=day|night=eve}} to you, adventurer. My name is Philota. Would you happen to be the young {{alternatives|f=lady|m=gentleman}} sent by Miah Molkot?
'''Philota:''' Then I thank you, from the bottom of my heart. I was traveling with my young grandson from Gridania, but as we made our way through Treespeak, we were set upon by an angered treant and our carriage was overturned. My grandson and I managed to escape, but we were separated from our guard.
'''Philota:''' We fled into the forest, seeking shelter, but only found a nest of Ixal. They captured us, and bound our hands with rough twine. I feared we were to be offered to their god... Imagine my relief when I overheard them speaking of us not as sacrifices, but as hostages!
'''Philota:''' And then, without a word of warning, I was released. They marched me here, removed my blindfold, and bade me wait for Miah's envoy to collect me. I thank you, adventurer. But, my grandson... Is he still in the birdmen's clutches? We must send word to Miah right away!
'''Philota:''' I pray you, adventurer─return to Miah and relate to her all that I have told you. If anyone can save my grandson, it is she. Please, do not worry about me─I can make my way to Fallgourd Float from here. The guards there will protect me.

===Reporting to Miah Molkot===
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Lady Philota is safe!? Thank the gods! But what of her grandson? Was he released, too? <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What!? They plan to hold the boy hostage, to keep my claws from their craven necks!? Their skullduggery knows no bounds! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' They say they will release the child when they have found...something? I ssspit on their lies! They seek nothing but our land, and would use the boy as a shield to secure their trespass! Nophica as my witness, they shall gain nothing but their deaths!
'''Miah Molkot:''' The birdies have picked on the wrong prey this time. The boy is the only child of Lady Philota's late son, once the leader of the White Rams. We are honor-bound to free him from their filthy claws! They'll rue the day they ever thought of laying their hands on one of ours!
'''Miah Molkot:''' You can tell Lady Philota that Miah Molkot will not rest until her grandson is safely returned, and the rills run red with birdman blood! Go to the Bobbing Cork, and let her know just that!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Go to the Bobbing Cork, [Forename], and let Lady Philota know that all is in hand. I'll save her grandson, and bring her the head of each and every birdie who dared lay a talon on him!

===Speaking with Philota in the Bobbing Cork===
'''Philota:''' Miah plans to rescue my grandson herself? That is the best news I could hope to hear. I cannot thank you enough for your assistance in this matter, young {{alternatives|f=woman|m=man}}.
'''Philota:''' I have known Miah since she was but a mewling babe, and believe me when I say that I have full confidence she shall devote every energy to rescuing my grandson. If anyone can rescue him from those brutes, Miah can.
'''Philota:''' Near twenty years have passed since the day we first met, back when my son was still the leader of the White Rams. Before he...was taken from us. A report came in that a settlement was under Ixali attack, and he raced to its defense.
'''Philota:''' By the time he and his men arrived, the Ixal had already captured the village. My son refused to abandon it to their clutches, and led a daring attempt to rescue the villagers. He finally succeeded in expelling the invaders, but their deadly work was done. Only one child emerged alive from the ruins─Miah.
'''Philota:''' My son took the orphaned girl under his wing, and taught her bowmanship. She came to idolize him as a master, and perhaps...a father. But now she is twice orphaned, and the Ixal hold her master's only son as a hostage. I can well understand her fury.
'''Philota:''' But, this anger of hers... I fear it may cloud her judgment in this case, and drive her to recklessness. I pray you, young {{alternatives|f=woman|m=man}}─return to her, and urge her not to be too rash in her plans. I could not live with myself were my grandson's safety to be bought with friendly blood...
'''(Optional)'''
'''Philota:''' Miah has always been such a...''passionate'' young lady. It serves her well in her work, but I fear her personal investment in this may make her act rashly. I pray you, would you talk with her, and persuade her not to take any needless risks?

===Reporting to Miah Molkot===
'''Miah Molkot:''' Lady Philota said that...? Even with her grandson held captive by the birdmen, she worries for the safety of our soldiers? Truly, the lady's consideration knows no bounds...
'''Miah Molkot:''' But I fear the time for restraint is past. It sickens me to sit by while the birdmen prowl our forests, using one of our own as a shield! Their band has just been sighted from this very Spire, and moving northwards.
'''Miah Molkot:''' Do you realize what that means? The dissembling birdies return to their logging grounds, with Lady Philota's grandson in tow! So much for their honor and honesty! We must pounce now, before they escape through Proud Creek and─ Mrrrowl?
'''Miah Molkot:''' Hold a moment, I have word from my scouts. ...Yes? You have them in your sights? Then on my order, unleash─
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What!? They send a messenger? They say they've found what they were looking for, and will release the hostage immediately? ...Understood. Over and out! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Did you hear that, [Forename]!? The birdmen say they have released the boy...but in Proud Creek, of all places! Why, he would almost be safer in their evil clutches! You must go there straightaway, and find the child before something wickeder does! <<
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Quickly, [Forename], to Proud Creek! Those feathered freaks have left Lady Philota's grandson alone in that den of danger! You must help my men to find him before it's too late!

===Searching for Philota's grandson north of Proud Creek (Cutscene)===
''(Optional)''
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Where, oh where, can that little boy be? And where, oh where, did I leave my spectacles...? Oh! You are Commander Molkot's [man/woman], are you not? I shall search over this way─you search over there.

'''Philota's Grandson:''' A-Are you a friend of Miss Molkot's? Thank you so much for coming to rescue me!
'''Philota's Grandson:''' Oh, yes, I'm quite all right. They didn't hurt me...only my pride. I was such a fool, stumbling straight into that Ixali camp. I'm sorry for causing everyone to go to such trouble to rescue me. Miah wouldn't have let herself get caught so easily. Nor would my father...
'''Philota's Grandson:''' I'm just thankful the Ixal were true to their word. I overheard some of what they were discussing: it seemed they were searching for a hatchling of theirs─the young of a chieftain who had disappeared from his nest. They had followed his trail into Treespeak.
'''Philota's Grandson:''' They were readying forces to launch an invasion to recover the child, knowing it would lead to all-out war with Gridania. But then they somehow learned of mine and Grandmama's arrival, and resolved to kidnap us instead, to secure the truce that would allow a rescue party to search unhindered.
'''Philota's Grandson:''' But there is something I don't understand... When the leader of the Ixal cut my bonds, he whispered something strange to me: “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” And then they were gone...

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Young master! How good it is to find you safe! ...Is aught amiss?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' The Ixal were on the search for a hatchling? So then they were not raiders, but rescuers...?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' We must report these developments to Commander Molkot immediately. Let us rendezvous back at Eugenia's Spire. Come, child─follow me!

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Philota's Grandson:''' Thank you again...[Forename], was it? Though my rescue seems to have caused more trouble than it solved...

'''Miah Molkot:''' Well done, [Forename]! Now that we have the boy, the birdies want for a shield! And a birdie without a shield is ripe for the plucking!

===Renezvousing with the Gods' Quiver bow at Eugenia's Spire===
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Please, {{alternatives|f=miss|m=sir}}, you have to stop her! The commander means to harry the Ixali retreat, and strike them all down!

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> And you would stop me!? Have you forgotten our motto? All Ixal must die! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' I-I know, but...please, ma'am, I beg you to reconsider! This was not an invasion, it was a rescue mission! They were searching for a lost hatchling!
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' And after all, they did keep their promise─they released the boy! Surely it is only right that we should honor our side of the agreement and allow them to leave.

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What agreement!? Those were ''their'' conditions, and they only had the nerve to give them because they were holding the poor boy hostage! They invade our lands, steal our children, and you would show them mercy? The only peace they'll get from me is that of the grave! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Sir, you must help me! Go to the Bobbing Cork, and bring back Lady Philota. She is the only one Commander Molkot will listen to!
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' There's something that bothers me about all this. It's what that Ixali chieftain said... Something of promises kept in years long past. If anyone knows what he meant by it, Lady Philota will.

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' What was it again...? “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” Surely we cannot proceed with the attack without knowing what he meant. Perhaps Lady Philota would have some idea?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' You will find her in the Bobbing Cork. Please, sir, I do believe she is the only one who'll be able to get through to the commander. You must bring her here before she puts an arrow through the hatchling's head!

'''Philota's Grandson:''' “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” I'll never forget those words... But my father was the leader of the White Rams, the sworn enemy of the Ixal. What promise could he possibly have made?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> They think they can invade our lands, kidnap our children, and get away scot–free!? I'll rip out their quills, and make them sign their own death warrants! With their own blood! <<

===Speaking with Philota at the Bobbing Cork===
'''Philota:''' My grandson is safe...? Thank you, adventurer! A thousand times, thank you! How can I possibly repay you for all you have done for my family?
'''Philota:''' ...I see. It appears the situation is more complicated than we first thought. The Ixal that took us were a rescue team...and now Miah plans to attack them in their retreat, and the hatchling with them? And only I can stop her?
'''Philota:''' Perhaps I can, for I indeed have some knowledge of this “promise” the Ixal spoke of. How strange that their fates should be brought together again like this. The elementals work in mysterious ways...
'''Philota:''' Very well. I will talk with Miah. Would it be too much to ask you to do me a further kindness? Run ahead to Eugenia's Spire, and delay her from taking any drastic action. I will join you as soon as I can. The path is steep, and I am afraid I am not as young as I once was...

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' It is too late... The commander has already relayed the order to ready the attack. There is nothing more I can do!

'''Philota's Grandson:''' I know the Ixal are our enemies, but these ones are retreating, and a youngling goes with them. Couldn't we let them go, just this once?

===Speaking with Miah Molkot (Cutscene)===
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> All right, you're the last of them! Join up with the forward squadron, and begin the attack! The poor wee birdies won't know what hit them! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' What is it, adventurerrr? Don't tell me ''you'' object to my attack as well?

'''???:''' And so do I, Miah.

'''Philota's Grandson:''' >> Grandmama! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' L-Lady Philota! What are you doing here? You have been through so much at the claws of the birdmen─you need to rest!

'''Philota:''' As do you, Miah. There is a story you must needs hear─a story begun long ago, but not yet concluded.

'''Miah Molkot:''' A story...? What story?

'''Philota:''' A tale from long ago, when my son led the White Rams as you do now. A time when we found ourselves caught in the same snare as the Ixal did this day, as if reflected in a glass.
'''Philota:''' There was a young girl, trapped behind Ixali lines. The White Rams put together a rescue team to save her, and prepared to strike at the heart of the enemy. The Ixal were surrounded, but their defenses were strong. All hope seemed lost...
'''Philota:''' Until, quite by chance, a separate raid led to the capture of several Ixali hatchlings, abandoned in their nests. So both sides came to hold younglings as hostages... Threat was answered with counterthreat, and both sides prepared for a bloody resolution.
'''Philota:''' Until my son reached out to the Ixal... He offered them a truce, and a promise: he would return their hatchlings, if the Ixal would withdraw, and spare the child.
'''Philota:''' Tell me, my dear... What was it the Ixali chieftain said to you? That your father kept his promise? And so he would keep his in return?
'''Philota:''' It can only be the will of the elementals that brought such a fate to pass... There can be no doubt─that chieftain was one of the Ixali hatchlings my son released that day.
'''Philota:''' It was my son's promise that lifted the siege on the village, and saved the child. A young Miqo'te girl, with an ink-black coat, and shining eyes...

'''Miah Molkot:''' My master bought my life...with his...?

'''Philota:''' After twenty long years, the threads of destiny that entwined on that fateful day have brought you together once more. Whether you sever those ties now, or tie them stronger, only your heart can decide.

'''Miah Molkot:''' To be bound to an Ixal, or to cut myself free... All right, soldiers...
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Call off the attack! Send word to the vanguard: they are to escort the Ixal off our lands, but under no circumstances are the birdmen to be fired upon! Anyone foolish enough to disobey will answer to me! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' B-But, Commander! What about our motto: “All Ixal must die”?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Oh, they'll die all right! The minute they step their filthy feet back in the Twelveswood, I'll snap their twiggy wee necks and lap up their blood! Every clucking last one of them! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bows:''' Ma'am, yes, ma'am!

'''Miah Molkot:''' Hmph... I did so want to push my claws into their beady little eyes, but it's not for me to put an end to what my master began.
'''Miah Molkot:''' [Forename]... You came to me with a letter, but in the end you brought me something far more important─true compassion, the legacy of my master that I was far too quick to forget. There is only one thing I can say... Thank meow!

'''System:''' With your successful delivery, your reputation as a letter carrier has grown!
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

Hostages to Fortune

2026-05-19T16:24:26Z

WhyContainIt: /* Finding the Ixali headwing in Treespeak */ lmao I'm fucking stupid and forgot to fix the Forename bit

{{Quest infobox
| title = Hostages to Fortune
| description = The [[Deputy Postmoogle]] holds out a soil-stained letter, suspiciously blemished with beak marks.
| image = Hostages to Fortune.png
| quest-giver = Deputy Postmoogle
| related-npcs = Gods' Quiver Bow; Ireine; Isaudorel; Ixali Headwing; Ixali Wing; Miah Molkot; Philota; Philota's Grandson
| location = Limsa Lominsa Lower Decks
| location-x = 10.4
| location-y = 11.3
| type = side
| quest-line = Delivery Moogle Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Side Story Quests
| journal-genre = Delivery Moogle Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 50
| req-quest =
| req-items = 1 Letter to Miah Molkot
| requirements =
| exp = 0
| gil = 799
| mettle =
| reward(1-10) =
| overridereward(1-10) =
| reward-opt1 = 3 Pineapple Juice
| reward-opt2 = 3 Apkallu Omelette
| reward-opt3 = 3 Rolanberry Cheesecake
| reward-opt4 = 3 Dzemael Gratin
| reward-opt5 = 3 Allagan Bronze Piece
| overridereward-opt(1-8) =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest =
| next-quest =
| patch = 2.5
| release =
| id-gt = 67111
| id-edb = c2c4a0462ad
}}
==Steps==
*Deliver the letter to [[Miah Molkot]] at [[Eugenia's Spire]].
*Assist the Gods' Quiver bow in [[Treespeak]].
*Speak with the Gods' Quiver bow.
*Find the [[Ixali Headwing]] in Treespeak.
*Speak with [[Philota]] on the cliffs east of [[Fallgourd Float]].
*Report to Miah Molkot.
*Speak with Philota in [[the Bobbing Cork]].
*Report to Miah Molkot.
*Search for [[Philota's Grandson]] north of [[Proud Creek]].
*Rendezvous with the Gods' Quiver bow at Eugenia's Spire.
*Speak with Philota at the Bobbing Cork.
*Speak with Miah Molkot.

==Journal==
*The deputy postmoogle holds out a soil-stained letter, suspiciously blemished with beak marks.

*The deputy postmoogle asks you to deliver a letter to the beautiful North Shroud, the playground of his own happy mooglinghood. Or to be more accurate, redeliver it: the moogle who preceded you was ambushed by the Ixal, and barely escaped with his pom-pom still attached. The deputy postmoogle bids you make a second attempt: brave the Ixali gauntlet to Eugenia's Spire, and place the letter in the unyielding hands of Miah Molkot, ferocious leader of the White Rams.

*Miah scans the note, and licks her lips at the happy news within: her dear friend Philota and the lady's young grandson are to visit. But delight soon turns to alarm when she realizes that the day of their expected arrival has come and gone. Fearing the malign intervention of the Ixal, she bids you seek out her man in Treespeak, slaying any birdman you should encounter along the way.

*In Treespeak, you meet with Miah's man─a Gods' Quiver bowman who has fallen into an Ixali ambush. You swiftly defeat his attackers, but the man is still reeling from the birdman assault. Offer the injured bowman your aid.

*As you tend to the wounded archer, another Ixal leaps from the brush, swinging his axe. Just as he is about to strike, a familiar figure appears: Miah Molkot. Terrified at the fate that awaits him at the hands of the famous Black Cat, the Ixal proffers a deal: in exchange for his life, he and his comrades will find Philota and her grandson, and return them unharmed. He bids you speak with his leader by the river bend, to whom he will deliver Miah's friends.

*You make contact with the Ixali headwing, but he refuses to honor his subordinate's unauthorized pledge. Instead, he presents you with an ultimatum for the White Rams: the Ixal hold Philota and her grandson hostage, and demand to be given free rein in the Twelveswood until such time as they complete a secret objective. As proof of their word, Philota is to be released in advance, on the cliffs overlooking Fallgourd Float. Go to her, and ensure her safety.

*The Ixal spoke the truth: on the cliffside stands Philota, shaken yet unharmed. She confirms that the Ixal do indeed have her grandson in their clutches, and bids you return to Eugenia's Spire to enlist Miah's aid in the boy's rescue.

*You report to Miah Molkot, who vows to devote her all to the rescue effort. She tells you how Philota's son was the leader of the White Rams before his untimely passing, and the child held hostage is his son in turn. For the Ixal to have kidnapped the boy is an insult to the White Rams' honor, and Miah will stop at nothing until those responsible are brought to her own personal brand of justice. She asks you to return to Philota, now resting at the Bobbing Cork, and assure her that her grandson will be saved.

*Philota is reassured by Miah's zeal, but fears her personal involvement in this case may drive the White Rams' leader beyond her usual exuberance and into recklessness. She asks you to return to Eugenia's Spire, and urge Miah not to take any unnecessary risks.

*You explain Philota's misgivings to Miah Molkot, but restraint is no longer an option for the maddened Miqo'te. Not only have the Ixal been taunting the White Rams by roaming the Twelveswood at will, using the boy as a shield, they now appear to be repairing to their own lands with the child in tow. Just as Miah is about to give the order to strike, a message comes from her scouts: true to their word, the Ixal have released Philota's grandson near Proud Creek. Fearing for his safety, Miah urges you to assist her men in finding the child before something more dastardly does.

*Despite the White Rams' best efforts, it is your eagle eye that first picks out Philota's grandson. He explains to you how the Ixal who held him hostage were not an invasion force, but a rescue team, hunting for a missing hatchling. Furthermore, the chieftain who released the boy left behind some strange words that seem to relate to some forgotten past. But Proud Creek is no place to linger in thought─you link up with another of the search team, who agrees to convey the boy back to the relative safety of Eugenia's Spire. Rendezvous with them there, and report these latest developments to Instructor Molkot.

*You meet with the bowman back at Eugenia's Spire, but all is not well. Despite the pleas of her soft-hearted subordinate, Miah Molkot is determined to take revenge on the Ixali rescue team, and strike them down before they reach the border─hatchling and all. The bowman urges you to speak with Philota at the Bobbing Cork and explain the situation, that she might convince the ruthless instructor to call off the attack.

*You relay the events to Philota, who vows to do all she can to persuade Miah to be merciful. She asks you to return with all haste to Eugenia's Spire, and delay the attack until she arrives.

*You return to the Spire in time to hear Miah giving the final order to set upon the retreating Ixal. But just as the bowmen are about to depart, Philota arrives to relate a fateful tale from the past. Twenty years earlier, the White Rams, under the leadership of Philota's late son, released Ixali hatchlings to secure the safety of a young girl─a girl by the name of Miah Molkot. By the Ixali headwing's words, he could only be one of those hatchlings whose life was spared in exchange for hers. Unwilling to sever the ties of destiny put in place by her master so long before, Miah Molkot calls off the attack. And so, after twenty long years, a temporary truce returns to the Twelveswood.

==Dialogue==
===Accepting the quest===
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' [Forename]! The very vassal I was looking for, kupo! I need you to take a letter to Eugenia's Spire in the North Shroud. The wood where your dear leader─that's me─was born and raised!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' It needs to be delivered to Miah Molkot, leader of the White Rams. Officially, they're an offshoot of the Gods' Quiver, but in practice they're Miss Molkot's private army. The Ixal call her the Black Cat─whenever she crosses their path, they're sure to meet with an unfortunate end, kupo!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' Truth be told, this isn't the first time we've tried to deliver this letter. I entrusted it to another subordinate of mine─a delivery moogle on his very first mission. But he got chased away by the birdmen, and fluttered back, hiding his face under his pom-pom.
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' He simply wasn't cut out for such a trying task. But who is, I thought? Who best to dispatch into Ixal-infested forest, and explain the letter's lateness to the fiery-tempered Miss Molkot? Guess whose name sprang to mind... Here's the letter, [Forename]─off you pop, kupo!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' I've half a mind to deliver this letter myself, kupo! Did I ever tell you that I was born and raised in that very area─the lush forests around Eugenia's Spire? Oh, those happy days, when my fledgling friends and I would leap from the tower and float gently to the ground! You should try it, kupo!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' ...But only after you've completed your delivery. The letter is addressed to Miah Molkot, commander of the White Rams. Please be aware that Miss Molkot is something of a force of nature─she may not appreciate the letter's lateness, kupo. You do have a full set of armor, don't you?

===Delivering the letter to Miah Molkot at Eugenia's Spire===
'''Miah Molkot:''' You seek Miah Molkot? I am she. Instructor of the Gods' Quiver, commander of the White Rams, and bane of any feathered fiend who dares poke his beak in the Twelveswood.
'''Miah Molkot:''' <sniff> <sniff> I know you... We've spoken before, have we not? I trust you've bagged a few birdies of your own since last we met.
'''Miah Molkot:''' [Forename], is it? What business do you have with meow? Apologies─a slip of the tongue. When I say “with meow,” I mean “with meow”... Grrr. Not meow─meow! ...Bah! What do you want!?
'''''<Hand Over Letter to Miah Molkot>'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Let me see that... Oh, how wonderful! It's a letter from Lady Philota!
'''Miah Molkot:''' The woman is like a mother to me, you see. I lost my parents when I was young, and it was she who raised me from a mewling babe. Her son was a great hero─a leader of the White Rams before me─but he too was lost in the line of duty. Ah, but let me see what news she has...
'''Miah Molkot:''' Hmmm... She says she is to visit Fallgourd Float with her dear grandson. But by the dates she gives, she should be here at this very moment. It's strange that I have had no word of their arrival...
'''Miah Molkot:''' Perhaps she simply misread her calendar... After all, she speaks of the future, but these dates are past. Tell me, adventurerrr: when was the letter posted?
'''Miah Molkot:''' Grrr! Damn those incompetent moogles! Never trust anything with wings, I say! Then these dates must be true─they ''should'' be here already. I smell the filthy hands of those blasted birdies in this!
'''Miah Molkot:''' We must send out a search party! If they came via Gridania...might they have been ambushed in Treespeak? A band of Ixal raid the area, but they're usually too chicken-hearted to approach the paths. I have a sentry there watching their movements─go to him, and ask if he has seen anything untoward.
'''Miah Molkot:''' Oh, and if you should happen to meet with any wee birdies, none shall weep if you snap their scrawny necks!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' I shall remain here, and organize the search. Head to Treespeak, and speak with my man there. If any one of those birdies has touched a silver hair on Lady Philota's head, I'll tear out their gizzards and bathe in their blood!

===Assisting the Gods' Quiver bow in Treespeak===
'''(Optional)'''
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' >> Be careful, {{alternatives|f=miss|m=sir}}! He called for reinforcements! They shall be on us at any moment! <<

===Speaking with the Gods' Quiver Bow (Cutscene)===
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> Squaaawk! Wounded featherless ones, you seek? Find them, my axe will! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' >>Hold it right there, you squawking scum! <<

'''Ixali Wing:''' Squaaawk! Good Garuda! Miah Molkot, you are! Black Cat of the White Rams! My life, you will spare, yes? Squawk...?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> You'll get no mercy from me! I'll rip off your beak and wear it as a hat! Remember our motto, soldiers: “All Ixal must die!” <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Hold a moment, ma'am... Before I was set upon, I was watching this group of Ixal for some time─they seemed to be patrolling this area. Perhaps he knows something of what befell Lady Philota and her grandson.

'''Miah Molkot:''' Grrr. All right, I'll bite. Listen up, you beaky bastard! Answer me truly, and I'll grant you a painless death. Have you seen a lady and a young boy pass through this area?

'''Ixali Wing:''' ...Squawk? Searching for white-haired elder and girlie-voiced hatchling, featherless ones are? Seen them, I have! Attacked by a nasty beastie, their caravan was. Ran from the beastie, they did, all frighty and shaking!

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Grrr! You lie! The only beasties around here that would think of raiding a caravan are you and your craven kind! <<

'''Ixali Wing:''' Caw, caw, caw... No, no, Black Cat! Only the truth, I am telling! Worth more than mine, these featherless ones' lives are? Then, maybe...a deal we are making?
'''Ixali Wing:''' My life, you spare? Your featherless friends, I catch. Release them to you, we will, scratchless and sound. A deal, we have?

'''Miah Molkot:''' Catch them? And then hold them as hostages, no doubt! I say we kill the feathered fool right now, and teach these Ixal a lesson. Right, [Forename]?

'''''< What will you say? >'''''
'''< Rip his beak off. >'''
'''< There must be some good in him. Let's agree to the deal. >'''

'''''< Rip his beak off. >'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Heh heh. I like you, boy. (But not yet─we'll let him betray his own kind first. We'll track him to see if he really knows where Lady Philota is, then you and I can pull his wishbone...) ...Listen up, beaky! If we let you go, will you keep your promise?

'''''< There must be some good in him. Let's agree to the deal. >'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' There's no good in a birdman, just blood and bile. Believe me, I've checked. But mayhap you're right─we have little to lose by releasing this wretch, and possibly much to gain... All right, beaky! If you truly swear that you will return our friends to us unharmed, we agree to your deal.

'''(Both)'''
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> Squaaawk! Spared, I am, by Molkot the Merciless? Believe it, I cannot! Well known to our kind, your cruelty is! And yet walk free, I do? Then on my honor, my word, you have! <<
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> With my headwing, I shall speak! Your smooth and wrinkly friends, together we will catch! Send word, we shall! Come to the river bend northwest of here, and your friends, we shall return! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' Urgh... How I despise listening to their feather-brained prattle. The fool knows nothing, except how to delay his death with false promises. Still, I would have you follow him to this “headwing,” just to be sure. We shall return to the spire, to see if the other parties have met with more success.

===Finding the Ixali headwing in Treespeak===
''(Optional)''
'''Miah Molkot:''' What are you doing here? Didn't I tell you to follow that birdie to the river bend? Don't make me angry, [Forename]. Someone's going to die today, and I'd rather it didn't have to be you...

'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> Squaaawk! Come to play, the Black Cat's dog has! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> For his life, the sniveling wretch begged? No true Ixal, that one is! By my own talons, punished he shall be! His craven promises, never will we honor! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> But to what I say now, listen well, featherless one: our hostages, your friends are! The old one and the young! See them again, you would? Then do my bidding, you shall! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> Within your borders, we search! Unharmed and unhindered, you will leave us! When done we are─and only then─the hostages, we shall release! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> We lie, you think? Then the truth, we prove! Set free, the wrinkled one will be! Across the river you will find her, on the cliffs over Fallgourd Float! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> A lasting truce with you, we seek not! Pains me, it does, to show mercy to the hated Molkot! But our reasons we have, and our promises we will honor, if the Black Cat will do the same... <<

===Speaking with Philota on the cliffs east of Fallgourd Float===
'''Philota:''' G-Good {{alternatives|morning=morrow|day=day|night=eve}} to you, adventurer. My name is Philota. Would you happen to be the young {{alternatives|f=lady|m=gentleman}} sent by Miah Molkot?
'''Philota:''' Then I thank you, from the bottom of my heart. I was traveling with my young grandson from Gridania, but as we made our way through Treespeak, we were set upon by an angered treant and our carriage was overturned. My grandson and I managed to escape, but we were separated from our guard.
'''Philota:''' We fled into the forest, seeking shelter, but only found a nest of Ixal. They captured us, and bound our hands with rough twine. I feared we were to be offered to their god... Imagine my relief when I overheard them speaking of us not as sacrifices, but as hostages!
'''Philota:''' And then, without a word of warning, I was released. They marched me here, removed my blindfold, and bade me wait for Miah's envoy to collect me. I thank you, adventurer. But, my grandson... Is he still in the birdmen's clutches? We must send word to Miah right away!
'''Philota:''' I pray you, adventurer─return to Miah and relate to her all that I have told you. If anyone can save my grandson, it is she. Please, do not worry about me─I can make my way to Fallgourd Float from here. The guards there will protect me.

===Reporting to Miah Molkot===
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Lady Philota is safe!? Thank the gods! But what of her grandson? Was he released, too? <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What!? They plan to hold the boy hostage, to keep my claws from their craven necks!? Their skullduggery knows no bounds! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' They say they will release the child when they have found...something? I ssspit on their lies! They seek nothing but our land, and would use the boy as a shield to secure their trespass! Nophica as my witness, they shall gain nothing but their deaths!
'''Miah Molkot:''' The birdies have picked on the wrong prey this time. The boy is the only child of Lady Philota's late son, once the leader of the White Rams. We are honor-bound to free him from their filthy claws! They'll rue the day they ever thought of laying their hands on one of ours!
'''Miah Molkot:''' You can tell Lady Philota that Miah Molkot will not rest until her grandson is safely returned, and the rills run red with birdman blood! Go to the Bobbing Cork, and let her know just that!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Go to the Bobbing Cork, [Forename], and let Lady Philota know that all is in hand. I'll save her grandson, and bring her the head of each and every birdie who dared lay a talon on him!

===Speaking with Philota in the Bobbing Cork===
'''Philota:''' Miah plans to rescue my grandson herself? That is the best news I could hope to hear. I cannot thank you enough for your assistance in this matter, young {{alternatives|f=woman|m=man}}.
'''Philota:''' I have known Miah since she was but a mewling babe, and believe me when I say that I have full confidence she shall devote every energy to rescuing my grandson. If anyone can rescue him from those brutes, Miah can.
'''Philota:''' Near twenty years have passed since the day we first met, back when my son was still the leader of the White Rams. Before he...was taken from us. A report came in that a settlement was under Ixali attack, and he raced to its defense.
'''Philota:''' By the time he and his men arrived, the Ixal had already captured the village. My son refused to abandon it to their clutches, and led a daring attempt to rescue the villagers. He finally succeeded in expelling the invaders, but their deadly work was done. Only one child emerged alive from the ruins─Miah.
'''Philota:''' My son took the orphaned girl under his wing, and taught her bowmanship. She came to idolize him as a master, and perhaps...a father. But now she is twice orphaned, and the Ixal hold her master's only son as a hostage. I can well understand her fury.
'''Philota:''' But, this anger of hers... I fear it may cloud her judgment in this case, and drive her to recklessness. I pray you, young {{alternatives|f=woman|m=man}}─return to her, and urge her not to be too rash in her plans. I could not live with myself were my grandson's safety to be bought with friendly blood...
'''(Optional)'''
'''Philota:''' Miah has always been such a...''passionate'' young lady. It serves her well in her work, but I fear her personal investment in this may make her act rashly. I pray you, would you talk with her, and persuade her not to take any needless risks?

===Reporting to Miah Molkot===
'''Miah Molkot:''' Lady Philota said that...? Even with her grandson held captive by the birdmen, she worries for the safety of our soldiers? Truly, the lady's consideration knows no bounds...
'''Miah Molkot:''' But I fear the time for restraint is past. It sickens me to sit by while the birdmen prowl our forests, using one of our own as a shield! Their band has just been sighted from this very Spire, and moving northwards.
'''Miah Molkot:''' Do you realize what that means? The dissembling birdies return to their logging grounds, with Lady Philota's grandson in tow! So much for their honor and honesty! We must pounce now, before they escape through Proud Creek and─ Mrrrowl?
'''Miah Molkot:''' Hold a moment, I have word from my scouts. ...Yes? You have them in your sights? Then on my order, unleash─
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What!? They send a messenger? They say they've found what they were looking for, and will release the hostage immediately? ...Understood. Over and out! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Did you hear that, [Forename]!? The birdmen say they have released the boy...but in Proud Creek, of all places! Why, he would almost be safer in their evil clutches! You must go there straightaway, and find the child before something wickeder does! <<
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Quickly, [Forename], to Proud Creek! Those feathered freaks have left Lady Philota's grandson alone in that den of danger! You must help my men to find him before it's too late!

===Searching for Philota's grandson north of Proud Creek (Cutscene)===
'''Philota's Grandson:''' A-Are you a friend of Miss Molkot's? Thank you so much for coming to rescue me!
'''Philota's Grandson:''' Oh, yes, I'm quite all right. They didn't hurt me...only my pride. I was such a fool, stumbling straight into that Ixali camp. I'm sorry for causing everyone to go to such trouble to rescue me. Miah wouldn't have let herself get caught so easily. Nor would my father...
'''Philota's Grandson:''' I'm just thankful the Ixal were true to their word. I overheard some of what they were discussing: it seemed they were searching for a hatchling of theirs─the young of a chieftain who had disappeared from his nest. They had followed his trail into Treespeak.
'''Philota's Grandson:''' They were readying forces to launch an invasion to recover the child, knowing it would lead to all-out war with Gridania. But then they somehow learned of mine and Grandmama's arrival, and resolved to kidnap us instead, to secure the truce that would allow a rescue party to search unhindered.
'''Philota's Grandson:''' But there is something I don't understand... When the leader of the Ixal cut my bonds, he whispered something strange to me: “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” And then they were gone...

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Young master! How good it is to find you safe! ...Is aught amiss?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' The Ixal were on the search for a hatchling? So then they were not raiders, but rescuers...?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' We must report these developments to Commander Molkot immediately. Let us rendezvous back at Eugenia's Spire. Come, child─follow me!

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Philota's Grandson:''' Thank you again...[Forename], was it? Though my rescue seems to have caused more trouble than it solved...

'''Miah Molkot:''' Well done, [Forename]! Now that we have the boy, the birdies want for a shield! And a birdie without a shield is ripe for the plucking!

===Renezvousing with the Gods' Quiver bow at Eugenia's Spire===
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Please, {{alternatives|f=miss|m=sir}}, you have to stop her! The commander means to harry the Ixali retreat, and strike them all down!

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> And you would stop me!? Have you forgotten our motto? All Ixal must die! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' I-I know, but...please, ma'am, I beg you to reconsider! This was not an invasion, it was a rescue mission! They were searching for a lost hatchling!
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' And after all, they did keep their promise─they released the boy! Surely it is only right that we should honor our side of the agreement and allow them to leave.

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What agreement!? Those were ''their'' conditions, and they only had the nerve to give them because they were holding the poor boy hostage! They invade our lands, steal our children, and you would show them mercy? The only peace they'll get from me is that of the grave! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Sir, you must help me! Go to the Bobbing Cork, and bring back Lady Philota. She is the only one Commander Molkot will listen to!
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' There's something that bothers me about all this. It's what that Ixali chieftain said... Something of promises kept in years long past. If anyone knows what he meant by it, Lady Philota will.

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' What was it again...? “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” Surely we cannot proceed with the attack without knowing what he meant. Perhaps Lady Philota would have some idea?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' You will find her in the Bobbing Cork. Please, sir, I do believe she is the only one who'll be able to get through to the commander. You must bring her here before she puts an arrow through the hatchling's head!

'''Philota's Grandson:''' “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” I'll never forget those words... But my father was the leader of the White Rams, the sworn enemy of the Ixal. What promise could he possibly have made?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> They think they can invade our lands, kidnap our children, and get away scot–free!? I'll rip out their quills, and make them sign their own death warrants! With their own blood! <<

===Speaking with Philota at the Bobbing Cork===
'''Philota:''' My grandson is safe...? Thank you, adventurer! A thousand times, thank you! How can I possibly repay you for all you have done for my family?
'''Philota:''' ...I see. It appears the situation is more complicated than we first thought. The Ixal that took us were a rescue team...and now Miah plans to attack them in their retreat, and the hatchling with them? And only I can stop her?
'''Philota:''' Perhaps I can, for I indeed have some knowledge of this “promise” the Ixal spoke of. How strange that their fates should be brought together again like this. The elementals work in mysterious ways...
'''Philota:''' Very well. I will talk with Miah. Would it be too much to ask you to do me a further kindness? Run ahead to Eugenia's Spire, and delay her from taking any drastic action. I will join you as soon as I can. The path is steep, and I am afraid I am not as young as I once was...

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' It is too late... The commander has already relayed the order to ready the attack. There is nothing more I can do!

'''Philota's Grandson:''' I know the Ixal are our enemies, but these ones are retreating, and a youngling goes with them. Couldn't we let them go, just this once?

===Speaking with Miah Molkot (Cutscene)===
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> All right, you're the last of them! Join up with the forward squadron, and begin the attack! The poor wee birdies won't know what hit them! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' What is it, adventurerrr? Don't tell me ''you'' object to my attack as well?

'''???:''' And so do I, Miah.

'''Philota's Grandson:''' >> Grandmama! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' L-Lady Philota! What are you doing here? You have been through so much at the claws of the birdmen─you need to rest!

'''Philota:''' As do you, Miah. There is a story you must needs hear─a story begun long ago, but not yet concluded.

'''Miah Molkot:''' A story...? What story?

'''Philota:''' A tale from long ago, when my son led the White Rams as you do now. A time when we found ourselves caught in the same snare as the Ixal did this day, as if reflected in a glass.
'''Philota:''' There was a young girl, trapped behind Ixali lines. The White Rams put together a rescue team to save her, and prepared to strike at the heart of the enemy. The Ixal were surrounded, but their defenses were strong. All hope seemed lost...
'''Philota:''' Until, quite by chance, a separate raid led to the capture of several Ixali hatchlings, abandoned in their nests. So both sides came to hold younglings as hostages... Threat was answered with counterthreat, and both sides prepared for a bloody resolution.
'''Philota:''' Until my son reached out to the Ixal... He offered them a truce, and a promise: he would return their hatchlings, if the Ixal would withdraw, and spare the child.
'''Philota:''' Tell me, my dear... What was it the Ixali chieftain said to you? That your father kept his promise? And so he would keep his in return?
'''Philota:''' It can only be the will of the elementals that brought such a fate to pass... There can be no doubt─that chieftain was one of the Ixali hatchlings my son released that day.
'''Philota:''' It was my son's promise that lifted the siege on the village, and saved the child. A young Miqo'te girl, with an ink-black coat, and shining eyes...

'''Miah Molkot:''' My master bought my life...with his...?

'''Philota:''' After twenty long years, the threads of destiny that entwined on that fateful day have brought you together once more. Whether you sever those ties now, or tie them stronger, only your heart can decide.

'''Miah Molkot:''' To be bound to an Ixal, or to cut myself free... All right, soldiers...
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Call off the attack! Send word to the vanguard: they are to escort the Ixal off our lands, but under no circumstances are the birdmen to be fired upon! Anyone foolish enough to disobey will answer to me! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' B-But, Commander! What about our motto: “All Ixal must die”?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Oh, they'll die all right! The minute they step their filthy feet back in the Twelveswood, I'll snap their twiggy wee necks and lap up their blood! Every clucking last one of them! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bows:''' Ma'am, yes, ma'am!

'''Miah Molkot:''' Hmph... I did so want to push my claws into their beady little eyes, but it's not for me to put an end to what my master began.
'''Miah Molkot:''' [Forename]... You came to me with a letter, but in the end you brought me something far more important─true compassion, the legacy of my master that I was far too quick to forget. There is only one thing I can say... Thank meow!

'''System:''' With your successful delivery, your reputation as a letter carrier has grown!
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

Hostages to Fortune

2026-05-19T16:16:22Z

WhyContainIt: /* Finding the Ixali headwing in Treespeak */ Added that Miah has special dialogue if you go to her original position.

{{Quest infobox
| title = Hostages to Fortune
| description = The [[Deputy Postmoogle]] holds out a soil-stained letter, suspiciously blemished with beak marks.
| image = Hostages to Fortune.png
| quest-giver = Deputy Postmoogle
| related-npcs = Gods' Quiver Bow; Ireine; Isaudorel; Ixali Headwing; Ixali Wing; Miah Molkot; Philota; Philota's Grandson
| location = Limsa Lominsa Lower Decks
| location-x = 10.4
| location-y = 11.3
| type = side
| quest-line = Delivery Moogle Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Side Story Quests
| journal-genre = Delivery Moogle Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 50
| req-quest =
| req-items = 1 Letter to Miah Molkot
| requirements =
| exp = 0
| gil = 799
| mettle =
| reward(1-10) =
| overridereward(1-10) =
| reward-opt1 = 3 Pineapple Juice
| reward-opt2 = 3 Apkallu Omelette
| reward-opt3 = 3 Rolanberry Cheesecake
| reward-opt4 = 3 Dzemael Gratin
| reward-opt5 = 3 Allagan Bronze Piece
| overridereward-opt(1-8) =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest =
| next-quest =
| patch = 2.5
| release =
| id-gt = 67111
| id-edb = c2c4a0462ad
}}
==Steps==
*Deliver the letter to [[Miah Molkot]] at [[Eugenia's Spire]].
*Assist the Gods' Quiver bow in [[Treespeak]].
*Speak with the Gods' Quiver bow.
*Find the [[Ixali Headwing]] in Treespeak.
*Speak with [[Philota]] on the cliffs east of [[Fallgourd Float]].
*Report to Miah Molkot.
*Speak with Philota in [[the Bobbing Cork]].
*Report to Miah Molkot.
*Search for [[Philota's Grandson]] north of [[Proud Creek]].
*Rendezvous with the Gods' Quiver bow at Eugenia's Spire.
*Speak with Philota at the Bobbing Cork.
*Speak with Miah Molkot.

==Journal==
*The deputy postmoogle holds out a soil-stained letter, suspiciously blemished with beak marks.

*The deputy postmoogle asks you to deliver a letter to the beautiful North Shroud, the playground of his own happy mooglinghood. Or to be more accurate, redeliver it: the moogle who preceded you was ambushed by the Ixal, and barely escaped with his pom-pom still attached. The deputy postmoogle bids you make a second attempt: brave the Ixali gauntlet to Eugenia's Spire, and place the letter in the unyielding hands of Miah Molkot, ferocious leader of the White Rams.

*Miah scans the note, and licks her lips at the happy news within: her dear friend Philota and the lady's young grandson are to visit. But delight soon turns to alarm when she realizes that the day of their expected arrival has come and gone. Fearing the malign intervention of the Ixal, she bids you seek out her man in Treespeak, slaying any birdman you should encounter along the way.

*In Treespeak, you meet with Miah's man─a Gods' Quiver bowman who has fallen into an Ixali ambush. You swiftly defeat his attackers, but the man is still reeling from the birdman assault. Offer the injured bowman your aid.

*As you tend to the wounded archer, another Ixal leaps from the brush, swinging his axe. Just as he is about to strike, a familiar figure appears: Miah Molkot. Terrified at the fate that awaits him at the hands of the famous Black Cat, the Ixal proffers a deal: in exchange for his life, he and his comrades will find Philota and her grandson, and return them unharmed. He bids you speak with his leader by the river bend, to whom he will deliver Miah's friends.

*You make contact with the Ixali headwing, but he refuses to honor his subordinate's unauthorized pledge. Instead, he presents you with an ultimatum for the White Rams: the Ixal hold Philota and her grandson hostage, and demand to be given free rein in the Twelveswood until such time as they complete a secret objective. As proof of their word, Philota is to be released in advance, on the cliffs overlooking Fallgourd Float. Go to her, and ensure her safety.

*The Ixal spoke the truth: on the cliffside stands Philota, shaken yet unharmed. She confirms that the Ixal do indeed have her grandson in their clutches, and bids you return to Eugenia's Spire to enlist Miah's aid in the boy's rescue.

*You report to Miah Molkot, who vows to devote her all to the rescue effort. She tells you how Philota's son was the leader of the White Rams before his untimely passing, and the child held hostage is his son in turn. For the Ixal to have kidnapped the boy is an insult to the White Rams' honor, and Miah will stop at nothing until those responsible are brought to her own personal brand of justice. She asks you to return to Philota, now resting at the Bobbing Cork, and assure her that her grandson will be saved.

*Philota is reassured by Miah's zeal, but fears her personal involvement in this case may drive the White Rams' leader beyond her usual exuberance and into recklessness. She asks you to return to Eugenia's Spire, and urge Miah not to take any unnecessary risks.

*You explain Philota's misgivings to Miah Molkot, but restraint is no longer an option for the maddened Miqo'te. Not only have the Ixal been taunting the White Rams by roaming the Twelveswood at will, using the boy as a shield, they now appear to be repairing to their own lands with the child in tow. Just as Miah is about to give the order to strike, a message comes from her scouts: true to their word, the Ixal have released Philota's grandson near Proud Creek. Fearing for his safety, Miah urges you to assist her men in finding the child before something more dastardly does.

*Despite the White Rams' best efforts, it is your eagle eye that first picks out Philota's grandson. He explains to you how the Ixal who held him hostage were not an invasion force, but a rescue team, hunting for a missing hatchling. Furthermore, the chieftain who released the boy left behind some strange words that seem to relate to some forgotten past. But Proud Creek is no place to linger in thought─you link up with another of the search team, who agrees to convey the boy back to the relative safety of Eugenia's Spire. Rendezvous with them there, and report these latest developments to Instructor Molkot.

*You meet with the bowman back at Eugenia's Spire, but all is not well. Despite the pleas of her soft-hearted subordinate, Miah Molkot is determined to take revenge on the Ixali rescue team, and strike them down before they reach the border─hatchling and all. The bowman urges you to speak with Philota at the Bobbing Cork and explain the situation, that she might convince the ruthless instructor to call off the attack.

*You relay the events to Philota, who vows to do all she can to persuade Miah to be merciful. She asks you to return with all haste to Eugenia's Spire, and delay the attack until she arrives.

*You return to the Spire in time to hear Miah giving the final order to set upon the retreating Ixal. But just as the bowmen are about to depart, Philota arrives to relate a fateful tale from the past. Twenty years earlier, the White Rams, under the leadership of Philota's late son, released Ixali hatchlings to secure the safety of a young girl─a girl by the name of Miah Molkot. By the Ixali headwing's words, he could only be one of those hatchlings whose life was spared in exchange for hers. Unwilling to sever the ties of destiny put in place by her master so long before, Miah Molkot calls off the attack. And so, after twenty long years, a temporary truce returns to the Twelveswood.

==Dialogue==
===Accepting the quest===
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' [Forename]! The very vassal I was looking for, kupo! I need you to take a letter to Eugenia's Spire in the North Shroud. The wood where your dear leader─that's me─was born and raised!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' It needs to be delivered to Miah Molkot, leader of the White Rams. Officially, they're an offshoot of the Gods' Quiver, but in practice they're Miss Molkot's private army. The Ixal call her the Black Cat─whenever she crosses their path, they're sure to meet with an unfortunate end, kupo!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' Truth be told, this isn't the first time we've tried to deliver this letter. I entrusted it to another subordinate of mine─a delivery moogle on his very first mission. But he got chased away by the birdmen, and fluttered back, hiding his face under his pom-pom.
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' He simply wasn't cut out for such a trying task. But who is, I thought? Who best to dispatch into Ixal-infested forest, and explain the letter's lateness to the fiery-tempered Miss Molkot? Guess whose name sprang to mind... Here's the letter, [Forename]─off you pop, kupo!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' I've half a mind to deliver this letter myself, kupo! Did I ever tell you that I was born and raised in that very area─the lush forests around Eugenia's Spire? Oh, those happy days, when my fledgling friends and I would leap from the tower and float gently to the ground! You should try it, kupo!
'''Deputy Postmoogle:''' ...But only after you've completed your delivery. The letter is addressed to Miah Molkot, commander of the White Rams. Please be aware that Miss Molkot is something of a force of nature─she may not appreciate the letter's lateness, kupo. You do have a full set of armor, don't you?

===Delivering the letter to Miah Molkot at Eugenia's Spire===
'''Miah Molkot:''' You seek Miah Molkot? I am she. Instructor of the Gods' Quiver, commander of the White Rams, and bane of any feathered fiend who dares poke his beak in the Twelveswood.
'''Miah Molkot:''' <sniff> <sniff> I know you... We've spoken before, have we not? I trust you've bagged a few birdies of your own since last we met.
'''Miah Molkot:''' [Forename], is it? What business do you have with meow? Apologies─a slip of the tongue. When I say “with meow,” I mean “with meow”... Grrr. Not meow─meow! ...Bah! What do you want!?
'''''<Hand Over Letter to Miah Molkot>'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Let me see that... Oh, how wonderful! It's a letter from Lady Philota!
'''Miah Molkot:''' The woman is like a mother to me, you see. I lost my parents when I was young, and it was she who raised me from a mewling babe. Her son was a great hero─a leader of the White Rams before me─but he too was lost in the line of duty. Ah, but let me see what news she has...
'''Miah Molkot:''' Hmmm... She says she is to visit Fallgourd Float with her dear grandson. But by the dates she gives, she should be here at this very moment. It's strange that I have had no word of their arrival...
'''Miah Molkot:''' Perhaps she simply misread her calendar... After all, she speaks of the future, but these dates are past. Tell me, adventurerrr: when was the letter posted?
'''Miah Molkot:''' Grrr! Damn those incompetent moogles! Never trust anything with wings, I say! Then these dates must be true─they ''should'' be here already. I smell the filthy hands of those blasted birdies in this!
'''Miah Molkot:''' We must send out a search party! If they came via Gridania...might they have been ambushed in Treespeak? A band of Ixal raid the area, but they're usually too chicken-hearted to approach the paths. I have a sentry there watching their movements─go to him, and ask if he has seen anything untoward.
'''Miah Molkot:''' Oh, and if you should happen to meet with any wee birdies, none shall weep if you snap their scrawny necks!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' I shall remain here, and organize the search. Head to Treespeak, and speak with my man there. If any one of those birdies has touched a silver hair on Lady Philota's head, I'll tear out their gizzards and bathe in their blood!

===Assisting the Gods' Quiver bow in Treespeak===
'''(Optional)'''
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' >> Be careful, {{alternatives|f=miss|m=sir}}! He called for reinforcements! They shall be on us at any moment! <<

===Speaking with the Gods' Quiver Bow (Cutscene)===
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> Squaaawk! Wounded featherless ones, you seek? Find them, my axe will! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' >>Hold it right there, you squawking scum! <<

'''Ixali Wing:''' Squaaawk! Good Garuda! Miah Molkot, you are! Black Cat of the White Rams! My life, you will spare, yes? Squawk...?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> You'll get no mercy from me! I'll rip off your beak and wear it as a hat! Remember our motto, soldiers: “All Ixal must die!” <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Hold a moment, ma'am... Before I was set upon, I was watching this group of Ixal for some time─they seemed to be patrolling this area. Perhaps he knows something of what befell Lady Philota and her grandson.

'''Miah Molkot:''' Grrr. All right, I'll bite. Listen up, you beaky bastard! Answer me truly, and I'll grant you a painless death. Have you seen a lady and a young boy pass through this area?

'''Ixali Wing:''' ...Squawk? Searching for white-haired elder and girlie-voiced hatchling, featherless ones are? Seen them, I have! Attacked by a nasty beastie, their caravan was. Ran from the beastie, they did, all frighty and shaking!

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Grrr! You lie! The only beasties around here that would think of raiding a caravan are you and your craven kind! <<

'''Ixali Wing:''' Caw, caw, caw... No, no, Black Cat! Only the truth, I am telling! Worth more than mine, these featherless ones' lives are? Then, maybe...a deal we are making?
'''Ixali Wing:''' My life, you spare? Your featherless friends, I catch. Release them to you, we will, scratchless and sound. A deal, we have?

'''Miah Molkot:''' Catch them? And then hold them as hostages, no doubt! I say we kill the feathered fool right now, and teach these Ixal a lesson. Right, [Forename]?

'''''< What will you say? >'''''
'''< Rip his beak off. >'''
'''< There must be some good in him. Let's agree to the deal. >'''

'''''< Rip his beak off. >'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Heh heh. I like you, boy. (But not yet─we'll let him betray his own kind first. We'll track him to see if he really knows where Lady Philota is, then you and I can pull his wishbone...) ...Listen up, beaky! If we let you go, will you keep your promise?

'''''< There must be some good in him. Let's agree to the deal. >'''''
'''Miah Molkot:''' There's no good in a birdman, just blood and bile. Believe me, I've checked. But mayhap you're right─we have little to lose by releasing this wretch, and possibly much to gain... All right, beaky! If you truly swear that you will return our friends to us unharmed, we agree to your deal.

'''(Both)'''
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> Squaaawk! Spared, I am, by Molkot the Merciless? Believe it, I cannot! Well known to our kind, your cruelty is! And yet walk free, I do? Then on my honor, my word, you have! <<
'''Ixali Wing:''' >> With my headwing, I shall speak! Your smooth and wrinkly friends, together we will catch! Send word, we shall! Come to the river bend northwest of here, and your friends, we shall return! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' Urgh... How I despise listening to their feather-brained prattle. The fool knows nothing, except how to delay his death with false promises. Still, I would have you follow him to this “headwing,” just to be sure. We shall return to the spire, to see if the other parties have met with more success.

===Finding the Ixali headwing in Treespeak===
''(Optional)''
'''Miah Molkot:''' What are you doing here? Didn't I tell you to follow that birdie to the river bend? Don't make me angry, Leonette. Someone's going to die today, and I'd rather it didn't have to be you...

'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> Squaaawk! Come to play, the Black Cat's dog has! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> For his life, the sniveling wretch begged? No true Ixal, that one is! By my own talons, punished he shall be! His craven promises, never will we honor! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> But to what I say now, listen well, featherless one: our hostages, your friends are! The old one and the young! See them again, you would? Then do my bidding, you shall! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> Within your borders, we search! Unharmed and unhindered, you will leave us! When done we are─and only then─the hostages, we shall release! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> We lie, you think? Then the truth, we prove! Set free, the wrinkled one will be! Across the river you will find her, on the cliffs over Fallgourd Float! <<
'''Ixali Headwing:''' >> A lasting truce with you, we seek not! Pains me, it does, to show mercy to the hated Molkot! But our reasons we have, and our promises we will honor, if the Black Cat will do the same... <<

===Speaking with Philota on the cliffs east of Fallgourd Float===
'''Philota:''' G-Good {{alternatives|morning=morrow|day=day|night=eve}} to you, adventurer. My name is Philota. Would you happen to be the young {{alternatives|f=lady|m=gentleman}} sent by Miah Molkot?
'''Philota:''' Then I thank you, from the bottom of my heart. I was traveling with my young grandson from Gridania, but as we made our way through Treespeak, we were set upon by an angered treant and our carriage was overturned. My grandson and I managed to escape, but we were separated from our guard.
'''Philota:''' We fled into the forest, seeking shelter, but only found a nest of Ixal. They captured us, and bound our hands with rough twine. I feared we were to be offered to their god... Imagine my relief when I overheard them speaking of us not as sacrifices, but as hostages!
'''Philota:''' And then, without a word of warning, I was released. They marched me here, removed my blindfold, and bade me wait for Miah's envoy to collect me. I thank you, adventurer. But, my grandson... Is he still in the birdmen's clutches? We must send word to Miah right away!
'''Philota:''' I pray you, adventurer─return to Miah and relate to her all that I have told you. If anyone can save my grandson, it is she. Please, do not worry about me─I can make my way to Fallgourd Float from here. The guards there will protect me.

===Reporting to Miah Molkot===
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Lady Philota is safe!? Thank the gods! But what of her grandson? Was he released, too? <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What!? They plan to hold the boy hostage, to keep my claws from their craven necks!? Their skullduggery knows no bounds! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' They say they will release the child when they have found...something? I ssspit on their lies! They seek nothing but our land, and would use the boy as a shield to secure their trespass! Nophica as my witness, they shall gain nothing but their deaths!
'''Miah Molkot:''' The birdies have picked on the wrong prey this time. The boy is the only child of Lady Philota's late son, once the leader of the White Rams. We are honor-bound to free him from their filthy claws! They'll rue the day they ever thought of laying their hands on one of ours!
'''Miah Molkot:''' You can tell Lady Philota that Miah Molkot will not rest until her grandson is safely returned, and the rills run red with birdman blood! Go to the Bobbing Cork, and let her know just that!
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Go to the Bobbing Cork, [Forename], and let Lady Philota know that all is in hand. I'll save her grandson, and bring her the head of each and every birdie who dared lay a talon on him!

===Speaking with Philota in the Bobbing Cork===
'''Philota:''' Miah plans to rescue my grandson herself? That is the best news I could hope to hear. I cannot thank you enough for your assistance in this matter, young {{alternatives|f=woman|m=man}}.
'''Philota:''' I have known Miah since she was but a mewling babe, and believe me when I say that I have full confidence she shall devote every energy to rescuing my grandson. If anyone can rescue him from those brutes, Miah can.
'''Philota:''' Near twenty years have passed since the day we first met, back when my son was still the leader of the White Rams. Before he...was taken from us. A report came in that a settlement was under Ixali attack, and he raced to its defense.
'''Philota:''' By the time he and his men arrived, the Ixal had already captured the village. My son refused to abandon it to their clutches, and led a daring attempt to rescue the villagers. He finally succeeded in expelling the invaders, but their deadly work was done. Only one child emerged alive from the ruins─Miah.
'''Philota:''' My son took the orphaned girl under his wing, and taught her bowmanship. She came to idolize him as a master, and perhaps...a father. But now she is twice orphaned, and the Ixal hold her master's only son as a hostage. I can well understand her fury.
'''Philota:''' But, this anger of hers... I fear it may cloud her judgment in this case, and drive her to recklessness. I pray you, young {{alternatives|f=woman|m=man}}─return to her, and urge her not to be too rash in her plans. I could not live with myself were my grandson's safety to be bought with friendly blood...
'''(Optional)'''
'''Philota:''' Miah has always been such a...''passionate'' young lady. It serves her well in her work, but I fear her personal investment in this may make her act rashly. I pray you, would you talk with her, and persuade her not to take any needless risks?

===Reporting to Miah Molkot===
'''Miah Molkot:''' Lady Philota said that...? Even with her grandson held captive by the birdmen, she worries for the safety of our soldiers? Truly, the lady's consideration knows no bounds...
'''Miah Molkot:''' But I fear the time for restraint is past. It sickens me to sit by while the birdmen prowl our forests, using one of our own as a shield! Their band has just been sighted from this very Spire, and moving northwards.
'''Miah Molkot:''' Do you realize what that means? The dissembling birdies return to their logging grounds, with Lady Philota's grandson in tow! So much for their honor and honesty! We must pounce now, before they escape through Proud Creek and─ Mrrrowl?
'''Miah Molkot:''' Hold a moment, I have word from my scouts. ...Yes? You have them in your sights? Then on my order, unleash─
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What!? They send a messenger? They say they've found what they were looking for, and will release the hostage immediately? ...Understood. Over and out! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Did you hear that, [Forename]!? The birdmen say they have released the boy...but in Proud Creek, of all places! Why, he would almost be safer in their evil clutches! You must go there straightaway, and find the child before something wickeder does! <<
'''(Optional)'''
'''Miah Molkot:''' Quickly, [Forename], to Proud Creek! Those feathered freaks have left Lady Philota's grandson alone in that den of danger! You must help my men to find him before it's too late!

===Searching for Philota's grandson north of Proud Creek (Cutscene)===
'''Philota's Grandson:''' A-Are you a friend of Miss Molkot's? Thank you so much for coming to rescue me!
'''Philota's Grandson:''' Oh, yes, I'm quite all right. They didn't hurt me...only my pride. I was such a fool, stumbling straight into that Ixali camp. I'm sorry for causing everyone to go to such trouble to rescue me. Miah wouldn't have let herself get caught so easily. Nor would my father...
'''Philota's Grandson:''' I'm just thankful the Ixal were true to their word. I overheard some of what they were discussing: it seemed they were searching for a hatchling of theirs─the young of a chieftain who had disappeared from his nest. They had followed his trail into Treespeak.
'''Philota's Grandson:''' They were readying forces to launch an invasion to recover the child, knowing it would lead to all-out war with Gridania. But then they somehow learned of mine and Grandmama's arrival, and resolved to kidnap us instead, to secure the truce that would allow a rescue party to search unhindered.
'''Philota's Grandson:''' But there is something I don't understand... When the leader of the Ixal cut my bonds, he whispered something strange to me: “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” And then they were gone...

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Young master! How good it is to find you safe! ...Is aught amiss?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' The Ixal were on the search for a hatchling? So then they were not raiders, but rescuers...?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' We must report these developments to Commander Molkot immediately. Let us rendezvous back at Eugenia's Spire. Come, child─follow me!

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Philota's Grandson:''' Thank you again...[Forename], was it? Though my rescue seems to have caused more trouble than it solved...

'''Miah Molkot:''' Well done, [Forename]! Now that we have the boy, the birdies want for a shield! And a birdie without a shield is ripe for the plucking!

===Renezvousing with the Gods' Quiver bow at Eugenia's Spire===
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Please, {{alternatives|f=miss|m=sir}}, you have to stop her! The commander means to harry the Ixali retreat, and strike them all down!

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> And you would stop me!? Have you forgotten our motto? All Ixal must die! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' I-I know, but...please, ma'am, I beg you to reconsider! This was not an invasion, it was a rescue mission! They were searching for a lost hatchling!
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' And after all, they did keep their promise─they released the boy! Surely it is only right that we should honor our side of the agreement and allow them to leave.

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> What agreement!? Those were ''their'' conditions, and they only had the nerve to give them because they were holding the poor boy hostage! They invade our lands, steal our children, and you would show them mercy? The only peace they'll get from me is that of the grave! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' Sir, you must help me! Go to the Bobbing Cork, and bring back Lady Philota. She is the only one Commander Molkot will listen to!
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' There's something that bothers me about all this. It's what that Ixali chieftain said... Something of promises kept in years long past. If anyone knows what he meant by it, Lady Philota will.

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' What was it again...? “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” Surely we cannot proceed with the attack without knowing what he meant. Perhaps Lady Philota would have some idea?
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' You will find her in the Bobbing Cork. Please, sir, I do believe she is the only one who'll be able to get through to the commander. You must bring her here before she puts an arrow through the hatchling's head!

'''Philota's Grandson:''' “His promise, your father kept. And so the same, I shall do.” I'll never forget those words... But my father was the leader of the White Rams, the sworn enemy of the Ixal. What promise could he possibly have made?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> They think they can invade our lands, kidnap our children, and get away scot–free!? I'll rip out their quills, and make them sign their own death warrants! With their own blood! <<

===Speaking with Philota at the Bobbing Cork===
'''Philota:''' My grandson is safe...? Thank you, adventurer! A thousand times, thank you! How can I possibly repay you for all you have done for my family?
'''Philota:''' ...I see. It appears the situation is more complicated than we first thought. The Ixal that took us were a rescue team...and now Miah plans to attack them in their retreat, and the hatchling with them? And only I can stop her?
'''Philota:''' Perhaps I can, for I indeed have some knowledge of this “promise” the Ixal spoke of. How strange that their fates should be brought together again like this. The elementals work in mysterious ways...
'''Philota:''' Very well. I will talk with Miah. Would it be too much to ask you to do me a further kindness? Run ahead to Eugenia's Spire, and delay her from taking any drastic action. I will join you as soon as I can. The path is steep, and I am afraid I am not as young as I once was...

====Optional Dialogue====
'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' It is too late... The commander has already relayed the order to ready the attack. There is nothing more I can do!

'''Philota's Grandson:''' I know the Ixal are our enemies, but these ones are retreating, and a youngling goes with them. Couldn't we let them go, just this once?

===Speaking with Miah Molkot (Cutscene)===
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> All right, you're the last of them! Join up with the forward squadron, and begin the attack! The poor wee birdies won't know what hit them! <<
'''Miah Molkot:''' What is it, adventurerrr? Don't tell me ''you'' object to my attack as well?

'''???:''' And so do I, Miah.

'''Philota's Grandson:''' >> Grandmama! <<

'''Miah Molkot:''' L-Lady Philota! What are you doing here? You have been through so much at the claws of the birdmen─you need to rest!

'''Philota:''' As do you, Miah. There is a story you must needs hear─a story begun long ago, but not yet concluded.

'''Miah Molkot:''' A story...? What story?

'''Philota:''' A tale from long ago, when my son led the White Rams as you do now. A time when we found ourselves caught in the same snare as the Ixal did this day, as if reflected in a glass.
'''Philota:''' There was a young girl, trapped behind Ixali lines. The White Rams put together a rescue team to save her, and prepared to strike at the heart of the enemy. The Ixal were surrounded, but their defenses were strong. All hope seemed lost...
'''Philota:''' Until, quite by chance, a separate raid led to the capture of several Ixali hatchlings, abandoned in their nests. So both sides came to hold younglings as hostages... Threat was answered with counterthreat, and both sides prepared for a bloody resolution.
'''Philota:''' Until my son reached out to the Ixal... He offered them a truce, and a promise: he would return their hatchlings, if the Ixal would withdraw, and spare the child.
'''Philota:''' Tell me, my dear... What was it the Ixali chieftain said to you? That your father kept his promise? And so he would keep his in return?
'''Philota:''' It can only be the will of the elementals that brought such a fate to pass... There can be no doubt─that chieftain was one of the Ixali hatchlings my son released that day.
'''Philota:''' It was my son's promise that lifted the siege on the village, and saved the child. A young Miqo'te girl, with an ink-black coat, and shining eyes...

'''Miah Molkot:''' My master bought my life...with his...?

'''Philota:''' After twenty long years, the threads of destiny that entwined on that fateful day have brought you together once more. Whether you sever those ties now, or tie them stronger, only your heart can decide.

'''Miah Molkot:''' To be bound to an Ixal, or to cut myself free... All right, soldiers...
'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Call off the attack! Send word to the vanguard: they are to escort the Ixal off our lands, but under no circumstances are the birdmen to be fired upon! Anyone foolish enough to disobey will answer to me! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bow:''' B-But, Commander! What about our motto: “All Ixal must die”?

'''Miah Molkot:''' >> Oh, they'll die all right! The minute they step their filthy feet back in the Twelveswood, I'll snap their twiggy wee necks and lap up their blood! Every clucking last one of them! <<

'''Gods' Quiver Bows:''' Ma'am, yes, ma'am!

'''Miah Molkot:''' Hmph... I did so want to push my claws into their beady little eyes, but it's not for me to put an end to what my master began.
'''Miah Molkot:''' [Forename]... You came to me with a letter, but in the end you brought me something far more important─true compassion, the legacy of my master that I was far too quick to forget. There is only one thing I can say... Thank meow!

'''System:''' With your successful delivery, your reputation as a letter carrier has grown!
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

A Parley with Pirates

2026-05-19T15:41:16Z

WhyContainIt: /* Deliver the contract to Charlemend. */ Added dialogue branches on completing quest

{{Quest infobox
| title = A Parley with Pirates
| description = Francel has his eyes set on your next and final destination.
| image =
| quest-giver = Francel
| related-npcs = Carvallain; Charlemend; Charlemend de Durendaire; Gerald; Mealvaan's Gate Assessor; Melkoko; Quimperain; Raulf; Rhoswen; Z'ranmaia
| location = Ul'dah - Steps of Nald
| location-x = 11.5
| location-y = 9.1
| type = feature
| quest-line = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Records of Unusual Endeavors Quests
| journal-genre = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 60
| requirements =
| req-items = 1 Signed Contract
| exp = 25000
| gil = 940
| mettle =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest = Dealings in the Desert
| next-quest = May Featherfall Flourish
| release = shadowbringers
| patch = 5.35
| id-gt = 69493
| id-edb = 91911a26859
}}
==Steps==
*Speak with [[Charlemend]] at [[Bulwark Hall]] in [[Limsa Lominsa]].
*Speak with Charlemend.
*Speak with Charlemend in front of [[the Missing Member]].
*Speak with Charlemend once more.
*Speak with [[Carvallain]].
*Deliver the contract to Charlemend.

==Journal==
*Francel has his eyes set on your next and final destination.

*Encouraged by the success you experienced in both Gridania and Ul'dah, Francel has high hopes that negotiations in your final destination─Limsa Lominsa─will likewise bear fruit. Lord Charlemend, still deeply bitter about the disappearance of his son at sea some twenty years ago, is not keen to pay a visit to a den of pirates, but swallows his pride in hopes of avenging his loss by securing a trade agreement that will bring prosperity to his house and homeland alike. With a mixture of trepidation and anticipation, you set off for Limsa's Bulwark Hall to reunite with your companions.

*You arrive in Limsa, where Lord Charlemend─as is his wont─is quick to express his displeasure with his surroundings. Francel, however, cannot help but remark that the Count's temperament seems to have mellowed some over the course of the journey. You make for Mealvaan's Gate, eager to break new ground in your mission.

*At Mealvaan's Gate, an uncharacteristically diplomatic Lord Charlemend inquires with an assessor as to whether anyone in town might be willing to discuss a potential trade agreement with Ishgard. Though visibly dismayed to find out that this will involve a parley with pirates, he nevertheless resigns himself to the task. For your part, you resolve to follow him and Francel to the Missing Member to see if the Sanguine Sirens might be amenable to the offer.

*You accompany your friends to the Missing Member, where Lord Charlemend's best efforts to negotiate with Captain Rhoswen fall embarrassingly short of the mark. Doubtless lacking in experience dealing with rougher types, the nobleman is somewhat shaken, but not quite ready to abandon his efforts. Together with Lord Francel, you follow the count to the Seventh Sage, in hopes that the Krakens might prove a more receptive audience.

*Though the receptionist at the Seventh Sage is less overtly hostile than was Rhoswen, she makes it clear that─for reasons that are not entirely evident─she has been strictly forbidden from conducting business of any sort with Ishgard. Just when you fear all hope is lost, the conversation is interrupted by a message from none other than the captain himself, who apparently has agreed to entertain the offer, on the condition that it is you and you alone who presents it. Curious as to the reason for this, but not wishing to waste the opportunity, you make your way to the balcony for a parley with the pirate leader.

*Welcoming you to his inner sanctum, Carvallain carefully weighs your offer, eventually agreeing to the terms presented. It would appear that, despite his many misgivings, he is willing to invest in the idea that the nation of Ishgard has truly entered a new age of enlightenment, and that a partnership─albeit a limited one─with the Count de Durendaire might be for the best, after all. Forcing you to swear a promise that you will divulge not his name nor anything about him to your associates, the pirate captain provides you with a written agreement to deliver to Lord Charlemend, and sends you on your way.

*You hand over the document to Lord Charlemend, who is overcome with astonishment at hearing that your negotiation was a success. Though doubtless wishing he could have done the deed himself, the results are impossible for him to argue with, and─in uncharacteristic fashion─he expresses his sincere gratitude for your efforts on his house's behalf. Lord Francel, for his part, is delighted as well, as it is now clear that your mission has been an unqualified success─it is but a matter of time now until the markets of Featherfall flourish with a lively exchange of wares from all corners of Eorzea.

==Dialogue==
===Accepting the quest (Cutscene)===
'''Francel:''' Are you ready to take to the road again, [Forename]? Our final destination awaits us ─ Limsa Lominsa!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''Hmph...if we must.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Though if you truly expect to find a reliable trading partner in that den of pirates and ruffians, you are even more of a fool than I thought.
'''Francel:''' Believe me, Lord Charlemend, when I say that I bear no love for barbarous outlaws. That said, by all accounts things have changed much in the years since Admiral Bloefhiswyn rose to power.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''I have spoken of my son's disappearance to you in the past, have I not? If by chance you have forgotten, it was those accursed pirates who took him from me, and for that I will never forgive them.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''It was twenty long years ago. He was a boy of great promise, possessed of a curious mind and a burning desire to see the world. Then a murderous band of sea reavers raided his vessel, and...just like that, he was gone.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''To this day, the rumors reach my ears. That he rots in a gaol deep beneath the city. Or that someone resembling him has been seen wandering the streets. As his father, I want to believe he still lives somewhere, but there is only so long a man can...
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Ahem. What I mean to say is, I would not trust a pirate half as far as I could throw him. They are the scourge of our realm and my house, and I will have nothing to do with them.
'''Francel:''' You have my most heartfelt sympathies for the loss of your son, Lord Charlemend.
'''Francel:''' By no means do I wish to open old wounds and stir up painful memories. Pray return to Ishgard ahead of us. [Forename] and I shall handle matters from here.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...No. I will accompany you.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''Regardless of what happened ─ nay, precisely ''because'' of it ─ I will not shirk my duty as lord of House Durendaire.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I will march into that wretched hive of murder and villainy and seize from it a new age of prosperity for my house as due retribution for all they have taken from me.
'''Francel:''' If it is what you wish, my lord. Let us be on our way.
'''Francel:''' My preliminary research has led me to conclude that the area known as Bulwark Hall, a stone's throw from the airship landing, would make for a suitable place to commence our efforts.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Francel:''' So this is Limsa Lominsa! Why, it is even livelier than I imagined!

===Speak with Charlemend at Bulwark Hall in Limsa Lominsa.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' <sniff> The Fury take me...how can all these people abide that gods-awful stench of salt and brine in the air!?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Let us conclude our business swiftly and take our leave of this place. Lord Francel...I trust that your ''research'' has enlightened you as to where we might find a suitable trading partner?
'''Francel:''' Indeed it has, Lord Charlemend! I have read that all goods incoming and outgoing must pass inspection at a place called Mealvaan's Gate. No doubt that would be a productive place to begin our inquiry.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Hmph, I see. Very well, then, let us be off to this Mealvaan's Gate, or whatever the place was called.

'''Francel:''' Perhaps it is but wishful thinking on my part, but would you not say Lord Charlemend has softened some since we arrived here in Limsa? Why, he even waited for me to complete a full utterance before dashing off. Could it be that we have earned his trust?

''Optional dialogue''
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Yes? What business have ye at Mealvaan's Gate?

'''Francel:''' So this is where they conduct inspections on all goods imported to Limsa Lominsa. Most fascinating! I simply must take notes for future reference...

===Speak with Charlemend.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''You are employed here, yes? My companions and I hail from Ishgard, and we have come to Limsa to discuss matters of trade.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Then ye've most definitely come to the right place! Any inquiries ye may have regarding duties, tariffs, prohibited goods, and what-have-ye, I or one of my fellow assessors would be more than happy to enlighten ye!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...I see. To be precise, we seek to introduce wares from your nation to our own homeland, where we believe such items would be in demand. Might you be able to recommend to us a trader dealing in such wares?
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Aye, but of course! Why didn't ye say so sooner, my good man!? In that case, ye'll be wantin' to talk to one o' the three great pirate powers here in town.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Pirates!?
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Aye! 'Course, since the signin' of the Galadion Accord, they're more of an officially sanctioned agency, raidin' the Garleans at the Admiral's behest, takin' part in honest trade, and the like.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' 'Least, that much can be said o' the Sanguine Sirens and the Krakens. The Bloody Executioners are a whole 'nother matter, so I'd recommend ye limit any dealin' and negotiatin' ye feel like partakin' in to the former two.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' I reckon the Sanguine Sirens would be as good a start as any, as they're known to be a bit more welcomin' to outsiders like yerselves. Ye'll find them over in the tavern known as the Missin' Member, if yer up for a parley.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Yes, I do believe I've heard enough. Thank you for your time, and good day.

'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I can scarce believe it has come to this, but I suppose we have no recourse. Well, Lord Francel? I trust you know the way to this “Missing Member”...

''Optional dialogue''
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Should ye cut yourself a deal, don't forget to report all yer imports and exports to Mealvaan's Gate. Otherwise, we'll claim what's due one way or the other...

'''Francel:''' This is my first time visiting an actual den of pirates. I must confess, I am rather excited and intimidated by it all!

===Speak with Charlemend in front of the Missing Member.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Everyone is here, yes? Then let us be on our way.

(Cutscene)
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' By the Fury! Why, it's a veritable haven of pirate wenches...
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...But I will not back down from this challenge. Watch closely, Lord Francel, and let me show you how a deal is made.
'''Melkoko:''' Greetings, and welcome to the Missing Member! Do you have a reservation, sir?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I...I do not. I have come from Ishgard to discuss matters of trade with the captain of the esteemed Sanguine Sirens, and I was told I might find her here.
'''Melkoko:''' You were, were you? Why, yes...I suppose you might. Make yourself comfortable and I'll go let the captain know that she's got a new vict ─ er, visitor.
'''Rhoswen:''' The 'ells ye want, drylanders? State yer business quick, and ye'd best hope it's worth my while, else me Sirens'll see ye gutted and sleepin' with the fishes before ye knew what cuffed ye!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' P-Pray stay your hand, ah...my lady. I meant only to consult with you on a p-potential business proposition that might prove...ahem...mutually b-beneficial.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I hail from the nation of Ishgard, and I...ah, do believe that your fine wares would be most highly s-sought after in our nation.
'''Rhoswen:''' Ishgard!? Ye must be daft to think any pirate in 'er right mind would have even 'alf a mind to set one foot in some bleedin' snow-swept wasteland at the edge o' the world!
'''Rhoswen:''' Ye must have me confused with that puffy-shirted captain o' the Krakens, or someone else who's got more swagger than sense. Now get out o' my sight before I cut out yer blabbin' tongue an' toss it into tonight's stew!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' A thousand p-pardons, my lady. I shall take my leave anon and s-seek out these K-Krakens of whom you speak.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I th-thank you for your kindness, and wish you and your S-Sirens all the─
'''Rhoswen:''' I said ''get out of my'' ─ wait a bleedin' minute. Why does that self-righteous face o' yers seem ''so'' bloody familiar...?
'''Rhoswen:''' Bah, never mind. I've bigger fish to gut. Now begone from here, or ye'll be joinin' 'em!
'''Melkoko:''' If I were you, I'd be taking her advice to heart. You'll find the Krakens at the Seventh Sage, just past here and beyond the Drowning Wench. I do hope your parley there proves more...fruitful.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Rhoswen:''' I could swear I've seen that smug old bastard's self-satisfied mug somewhere before, but bugger me if I could tell ye where...

'''Melkoko:''' Have you been to the Seventh Sage yet? I suspect the Krakens will give you a warmer welcome than you found here.

'''Francel:''' Considering his son's tragic disappearance at sea, one can only imagine the complex emotions the count must be feeling. Let us tread lightly, friend.

===Speak with Charlemend once more. (Cutscene)===
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Welcome to the Seventh Sage! Would you care to peruse our diverse array of exotic herbs and spices?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...Ahem. Pardon me, my good lady. I am Charlemend of House Durendaire, and I have traveled to your fair nation from Ishgard.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Might you or any of your colleagues perchance be interested in selling your fine spices in my homeland? I can assure you many of my countrymen would be willing to pay a handsome price for them.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' D-Durendaire, did you say!? I, ah...
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...My sincere apologies, good sir, but in accordance with...ah...company policy, we are not entering into partnerships with parties from the Holy See at this time.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' No parties from the Holy See...? What insular, closed-minded nonsense is─
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...Ahem. What I mean to say is, we are prepared to make the arrangement ''most'' appetizing to you. As appetizing as salted harbor herring, one might say.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' To wit: our astrologians have devised a method to accurately gauge one's present location and bearing regardless of the season, a technique which I do believe would be most beneficial to esteemed privateers such as yourselves.
'''Carvallain:''' To think the old man would be willing to reveal a treasured house secret to outsiders ─ dastardly, despicable ''pirates'', no less...
'''Carvallain:''' ...Perhaps there's hope for Ishgard yet.
''Z'ranmaia's linkshell rings.''
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...Ahem. Pray excuse me for a moment.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' C-Captain!? Why, yes. Worry not. I was just about to bid our guest farewell, as per your explicit orders not to─
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Wh-What's that? Are you certain? ...I see. I'll convey the message, then. Forgive me for my hasty decision.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...Ahem. The captain says he will entertain your proposition, but on one condition: he will only speak to the adventurer here.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...I see. In that case, I have little choice. [Forename], was it? I have done little to deserve your charity, but I would ask you this one favor. Might I entrust the negotiations to you?
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Very well, then. If you would come this way...
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Captain Carvallain of the Krakens awaits you atop the stairs.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' One more thing: you are by ''no'' means to speak his name, nor describe his face to anyone from Ishgard, or he will ''personally'' have you keelhauled. No hard feelings, of course.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I know not what you have done to earn a pirate captain's trust, but ─ in this rarest of cases ─ I am most thankful for it.

'''Francel:''' I place my full trust in you, [Forename]. May the negotiations be a success!

===Speak with Carvallain (Cutscene)===
'''Carvallain:''' My associate has apprised me of the situation. So this delegation from the See wishes to establish trade relations with us, do they?
'''Carvallain:''' The Ishgardians...consumed only with their petty war...living out their days in that gloomy, frigid land devoid of passion or imagination... Just thinking back to my dreary days in that miserable place is enough to make me ill.
'''Carvallain:''' But with the war's end, it would appear that a new wind blows in my homeland...
'''Carvallain:''' While I am not so naive to assume that they have left their past entirely behind, I will trust that the See's desire to change ─ as well as that of the man who has come to me on their behalf ─ is sincere.
'''Carvallain:''' Anything to keep that most fearsome Lalafellin acquaintance of yours from making things ''difficult'' for me...
'''Carvallain:''' Gerald! The document.
'''Carvallain:''' This here is an agreement consenting to the formal commencement of trade between the Krakens and House Durendaire of Ishgard. It is in Gerald's name, and marked with our official seal to authorize the transaction.
'''Carvallain:''' I would appreciate if you could deliver this to the ''Count de Durendaire'' on my behalf.

'''Gerald:''' Are you quite sure about this, Captain?
'''Carvallain:''' Let us be thankful for that adventurer showing up when he did. If that man had forced his way to my office, I shudder to think of what might have ensued.
'''Carvallain:''' 'Tis strange, though... For long years the mere sight of the man's face filled me with loathing. But seeing it again now, I feel only this odd sense of...nostalgia.
'''Carvallain:''' And yet, I dare not entertain the thought of doing anything more. It would only serve to undo all I have accomplished.
'''Carvallain:''' ...No, I have no mind to give up my freedom for whatever I might gain in its place. Yes, this will do...

''Optional dialogue''
'''Carvallain:''' The Count de Durendaire is waiting. I suggest you deliver the document with all speed─I have it on good account that he is not a patient man.
'''Francel:''' Dare I ask how you fared in there, [Forename]?

===Deliver the contract to Charlemend.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Well? Do you have anything to show for your efforts? [Item Request: Signed Contract]
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Why, this is...more than I dared to hope we would achieve! However did you manage this!?

'''''What will you say?'''''
> Your passionate plea won him over.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' You mean...he was listening in on our discussion? I...I am not quite sure what to say...
> He chose to believe in Ishgard's future.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' He did? Pirate or no, this man clearly has done his research on our great nation, and I commend him for his wisdom and prescience.
> I made him an offer he couldn't refuse.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' An offer? What sort of─ Hm, never mind. I will trust that you have more experience in these matters than I.

'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' At any rate, I have finally accomplished that which I sought to here in Eorzea, and can finally return to Ishgard in triumph, as befitting the lord of the highest of houses.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I am in your debt, Lord Charlemend. And you, [Forename]. With this, the day that the finest goods from the realm over are traded freely in the markets of Featherfall is all but upon us!
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

A Parley with Pirates

2026-05-19T15:31:28Z

WhyContainIt: /* Speak with Carvallain (Cutscene) */ Added dialogue for if you immediately run back into Carvallain's office and talk to him again.

{{Quest infobox
| title = A Parley with Pirates
| description = Francel has his eyes set on your next and final destination.
| image =
| quest-giver = Francel
| related-npcs = Carvallain; Charlemend; Charlemend de Durendaire; Gerald; Mealvaan's Gate Assessor; Melkoko; Quimperain; Raulf; Rhoswen; Z'ranmaia
| location = Ul'dah - Steps of Nald
| location-x = 11.5
| location-y = 9.1
| type = feature
| quest-line = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Records of Unusual Endeavors Quests
| journal-genre = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 60
| requirements =
| req-items = 1 Signed Contract
| exp = 25000
| gil = 940
| mettle =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest = Dealings in the Desert
| next-quest = May Featherfall Flourish
| release = shadowbringers
| patch = 5.35
| id-gt = 69493
| id-edb = 91911a26859
}}
==Steps==
*Speak with [[Charlemend]] at [[Bulwark Hall]] in [[Limsa Lominsa]].
*Speak with Charlemend.
*Speak with Charlemend in front of [[the Missing Member]].
*Speak with Charlemend once more.
*Speak with [[Carvallain]].
*Deliver the contract to Charlemend.

==Journal==
*Francel has his eyes set on your next and final destination.

*Encouraged by the success you experienced in both Gridania and Ul'dah, Francel has high hopes that negotiations in your final destination─Limsa Lominsa─will likewise bear fruit. Lord Charlemend, still deeply bitter about the disappearance of his son at sea some twenty years ago, is not keen to pay a visit to a den of pirates, but swallows his pride in hopes of avenging his loss by securing a trade agreement that will bring prosperity to his house and homeland alike. With a mixture of trepidation and anticipation, you set off for Limsa's Bulwark Hall to reunite with your companions.

*You arrive in Limsa, where Lord Charlemend─as is his wont─is quick to express his displeasure with his surroundings. Francel, however, cannot help but remark that the Count's temperament seems to have mellowed some over the course of the journey. You make for Mealvaan's Gate, eager to break new ground in your mission.

*At Mealvaan's Gate, an uncharacteristically diplomatic Lord Charlemend inquires with an assessor as to whether anyone in town might be willing to discuss a potential trade agreement with Ishgard. Though visibly dismayed to find out that this will involve a parley with pirates, he nevertheless resigns himself to the task. For your part, you resolve to follow him and Francel to the Missing Member to see if the Sanguine Sirens might be amenable to the offer.

*You accompany your friends to the Missing Member, where Lord Charlemend's best efforts to negotiate with Captain Rhoswen fall embarrassingly short of the mark. Doubtless lacking in experience dealing with rougher types, the nobleman is somewhat shaken, but not quite ready to abandon his efforts. Together with Lord Francel, you follow the count to the Seventh Sage, in hopes that the Krakens might prove a more receptive audience.

*Though the receptionist at the Seventh Sage is less overtly hostile than was Rhoswen, she makes it clear that─for reasons that are not entirely evident─she has been strictly forbidden from conducting business of any sort with Ishgard. Just when you fear all hope is lost, the conversation is interrupted by a message from none other than the captain himself, who apparently has agreed to entertain the offer, on the condition that it is you and you alone who presents it. Curious as to the reason for this, but not wishing to waste the opportunity, you make your way to the balcony for a parley with the pirate leader.

*Welcoming you to his inner sanctum, Carvallain carefully weighs your offer, eventually agreeing to the terms presented. It would appear that, despite his many misgivings, he is willing to invest in the idea that the nation of Ishgard has truly entered a new age of enlightenment, and that a partnership─albeit a limited one─with the Count de Durendaire might be for the best, after all. Forcing you to swear a promise that you will divulge not his name nor anything about him to your associates, the pirate captain provides you with a written agreement to deliver to Lord Charlemend, and sends you on your way.

*You hand over the document to Lord Charlemend, who is overcome with astonishment at hearing that your negotiation was a success. Though doubtless wishing he could have done the deed himself, the results are impossible for him to argue with, and─in uncharacteristic fashion─he expresses his sincere gratitude for your efforts on his house's behalf. Lord Francel, for his part, is delighted as well, as it is now clear that your mission has been an unqualified success─it is but a matter of time now until the markets of Featherfall flourish with a lively exchange of wares from all corners of Eorzea.

==Dialogue==
===Accepting the quest (Cutscene)===
'''Francel:''' Are you ready to take to the road again, [Forename]? Our final destination awaits us ─ Limsa Lominsa!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''Hmph...if we must.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Though if you truly expect to find a reliable trading partner in that den of pirates and ruffians, you are even more of a fool than I thought.
'''Francel:''' Believe me, Lord Charlemend, when I say that I bear no love for barbarous outlaws. That said, by all accounts things have changed much in the years since Admiral Bloefhiswyn rose to power.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''I have spoken of my son's disappearance to you in the past, have I not? If by chance you have forgotten, it was those accursed pirates who took him from me, and for that I will never forgive them.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''It was twenty long years ago. He was a boy of great promise, possessed of a curious mind and a burning desire to see the world. Then a murderous band of sea reavers raided his vessel, and...just like that, he was gone.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''To this day, the rumors reach my ears. That he rots in a gaol deep beneath the city. Or that someone resembling him has been seen wandering the streets. As his father, I want to believe he still lives somewhere, but there is only so long a man can...
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Ahem. What I mean to say is, I would not trust a pirate half as far as I could throw him. They are the scourge of our realm and my house, and I will have nothing to do with them.
'''Francel:''' You have my most heartfelt sympathies for the loss of your son, Lord Charlemend.
'''Francel:''' By no means do I wish to open old wounds and stir up painful memories. Pray return to Ishgard ahead of us. [Forename] and I shall handle matters from here.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...No. I will accompany you.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''Regardless of what happened ─ nay, precisely ''because'' of it ─ I will not shirk my duty as lord of House Durendaire.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I will march into that wretched hive of murder and villainy and seize from it a new age of prosperity for my house as due retribution for all they have taken from me.
'''Francel:''' If it is what you wish, my lord. Let us be on our way.
'''Francel:''' My preliminary research has led me to conclude that the area known as Bulwark Hall, a stone's throw from the airship landing, would make for a suitable place to commence our efforts.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Francel:''' So this is Limsa Lominsa! Why, it is even livelier than I imagined!

===Speak with Charlemend at Bulwark Hall in Limsa Lominsa.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' <sniff> The Fury take me...how can all these people abide that gods-awful stench of salt and brine in the air!?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Let us conclude our business swiftly and take our leave of this place. Lord Francel...I trust that your ''research'' has enlightened you as to where we might find a suitable trading partner?
'''Francel:''' Indeed it has, Lord Charlemend! I have read that all goods incoming and outgoing must pass inspection at a place called Mealvaan's Gate. No doubt that would be a productive place to begin our inquiry.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Hmph, I see. Very well, then, let us be off to this Mealvaan's Gate, or whatever the place was called.

'''Francel:''' Perhaps it is but wishful thinking on my part, but would you not say Lord Charlemend has softened some since we arrived here in Limsa? Why, he even waited for me to complete a full utterance before dashing off. Could it be that we have earned his trust?

''Optional dialogue''
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Yes? What business have ye at Mealvaan's Gate?

'''Francel:''' So this is where they conduct inspections on all goods imported to Limsa Lominsa. Most fascinating! I simply must take notes for future reference...

===Speak with Charlemend.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''You are employed here, yes? My companions and I hail from Ishgard, and we have come to Limsa to discuss matters of trade.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Then ye've most definitely come to the right place! Any inquiries ye may have regarding duties, tariffs, prohibited goods, and what-have-ye, I or one of my fellow assessors would be more than happy to enlighten ye!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...I see. To be precise, we seek to introduce wares from your nation to our own homeland, where we believe such items would be in demand. Might you be able to recommend to us a trader dealing in such wares?
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Aye, but of course! Why didn't ye say so sooner, my good man!? In that case, ye'll be wantin' to talk to one o' the three great pirate powers here in town.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Pirates!?
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Aye! 'Course, since the signin' of the Galadion Accord, they're more of an officially sanctioned agency, raidin' the Garleans at the Admiral's behest, takin' part in honest trade, and the like.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' 'Least, that much can be said o' the Sanguine Sirens and the Krakens. The Bloody Executioners are a whole 'nother matter, so I'd recommend ye limit any dealin' and negotiatin' ye feel like partakin' in to the former two.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' I reckon the Sanguine Sirens would be as good a start as any, as they're known to be a bit more welcomin' to outsiders like yerselves. Ye'll find them over in the tavern known as the Missin' Member, if yer up for a parley.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Yes, I do believe I've heard enough. Thank you for your time, and good day.

'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I can scarce believe it has come to this, but I suppose we have no recourse. Well, Lord Francel? I trust you know the way to this “Missing Member”...

''Optional dialogue''
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Should ye cut yourself a deal, don't forget to report all yer imports and exports to Mealvaan's Gate. Otherwise, we'll claim what's due one way or the other...

'''Francel:''' This is my first time visiting an actual den of pirates. I must confess, I am rather excited and intimidated by it all!

===Speak with Charlemend in front of the Missing Member.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Everyone is here, yes? Then let us be on our way.

(Cutscene)
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' By the Fury! Why, it's a veritable haven of pirate wenches...
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...But I will not back down from this challenge. Watch closely, Lord Francel, and let me show you how a deal is made.
'''Melkoko:''' Greetings, and welcome to the Missing Member! Do you have a reservation, sir?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I...I do not. I have come from Ishgard to discuss matters of trade with the captain of the esteemed Sanguine Sirens, and I was told I might find her here.
'''Melkoko:''' You were, were you? Why, yes...I suppose you might. Make yourself comfortable and I'll go let the captain know that she's got a new vict ─ er, visitor.
'''Rhoswen:''' The 'ells ye want, drylanders? State yer business quick, and ye'd best hope it's worth my while, else me Sirens'll see ye gutted and sleepin' with the fishes before ye knew what cuffed ye!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' P-Pray stay your hand, ah...my lady. I meant only to consult with you on a p-potential business proposition that might prove...ahem...mutually b-beneficial.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I hail from the nation of Ishgard, and I...ah, do believe that your fine wares would be most highly s-sought after in our nation.
'''Rhoswen:''' Ishgard!? Ye must be daft to think any pirate in 'er right mind would have even 'alf a mind to set one foot in some bleedin' snow-swept wasteland at the edge o' the world!
'''Rhoswen:''' Ye must have me confused with that puffy-shirted captain o' the Krakens, or someone else who's got more swagger than sense. Now get out o' my sight before I cut out yer blabbin' tongue an' toss it into tonight's stew!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' A thousand p-pardons, my lady. I shall take my leave anon and s-seek out these K-Krakens of whom you speak.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I th-thank you for your kindness, and wish you and your S-Sirens all the─
'''Rhoswen:''' I said ''get out of my'' ─ wait a bleedin' minute. Why does that self-righteous face o' yers seem ''so'' bloody familiar...?
'''Rhoswen:''' Bah, never mind. I've bigger fish to gut. Now begone from here, or ye'll be joinin' 'em!
'''Melkoko:''' If I were you, I'd be taking her advice to heart. You'll find the Krakens at the Seventh Sage, just past here and beyond the Drowning Wench. I do hope your parley there proves more...fruitful.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Rhoswen:''' I could swear I've seen that smug old bastard's self-satisfied mug somewhere before, but bugger me if I could tell ye where...

'''Melkoko:''' Have you been to the Seventh Sage yet? I suspect the Krakens will give you a warmer welcome than you found here.

'''Francel:''' Considering his son's tragic disappearance at sea, one can only imagine the complex emotions the count must be feeling. Let us tread lightly, friend.

===Speak with Charlemend once more. (Cutscene)===
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Welcome to the Seventh Sage! Would you care to peruse our diverse array of exotic herbs and spices?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...Ahem. Pardon me, my good lady. I am Charlemend of House Durendaire, and I have traveled to your fair nation from Ishgard.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Might you or any of your colleagues perchance be interested in selling your fine spices in my homeland? I can assure you many of my countrymen would be willing to pay a handsome price for them.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' D-Durendaire, did you say!? I, ah...
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...My sincere apologies, good sir, but in accordance with...ah...company policy, we are not entering into partnerships with parties from the Holy See at this time.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' No parties from the Holy See...? What insular, closed-minded nonsense is─
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...Ahem. What I mean to say is, we are prepared to make the arrangement ''most'' appetizing to you. As appetizing as salted harbor herring, one might say.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' To wit: our astrologians have devised a method to accurately gauge one's present location and bearing regardless of the season, a technique which I do believe would be most beneficial to esteemed privateers such as yourselves.
'''Carvallain:''' To think the old man would be willing to reveal a treasured house secret to outsiders ─ dastardly, despicable ''pirates'', no less...
'''Carvallain:''' ...Perhaps there's hope for Ishgard yet.
''Z'ranmaia's linkshell rings.''
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...Ahem. Pray excuse me for a moment.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' C-Captain!? Why, yes. Worry not. I was just about to bid our guest farewell, as per your explicit orders not to─
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Wh-What's that? Are you certain? ...I see. I'll convey the message, then. Forgive me for my hasty decision.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...Ahem. The captain says he will entertain your proposition, but on one condition: he will only speak to the adventurer here.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...I see. In that case, I have little choice. [Forename], was it? I have done little to deserve your charity, but I would ask you this one favor. Might I entrust the negotiations to you?
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Very well, then. If you would come this way...
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Captain Carvallain of the Krakens awaits you atop the stairs.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' One more thing: you are by ''no'' means to speak his name, nor describe his face to anyone from Ishgard, or he will ''personally'' have you keelhauled. No hard feelings, of course.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I know not what you have done to earn a pirate captain's trust, but ─ in this rarest of cases ─ I am most thankful for it.

'''Francel:''' I place my full trust in you, [Forename]. May the negotiations be a success!

===Speak with Carvallain (Cutscene)===
'''Carvallain:''' My associate has apprised me of the situation. So this delegation from the See wishes to establish trade relations with us, do they?
'''Carvallain:''' The Ishgardians...consumed only with their petty war...living out their days in that gloomy, frigid land devoid of passion or imagination... Just thinking back to my dreary days in that miserable place is enough to make me ill.
'''Carvallain:''' But with the war's end, it would appear that a new wind blows in my homeland...
'''Carvallain:''' While I am not so naive to assume that they have left their past entirely behind, I will trust that the See's desire to change ─ as well as that of the man who has come to me on their behalf ─ is sincere.
'''Carvallain:''' Anything to keep that most fearsome Lalafellin acquaintance of yours from making things ''difficult'' for me...
'''Carvallain:''' Gerald! The document.
'''Carvallain:''' This here is an agreement consenting to the formal commencement of trade between the Krakens and House Durendaire of Ishgard. It is in Gerald's name, and marked with our official seal to authorize the transaction.
'''Carvallain:''' I would appreciate if you could deliver this to the ''Count de Durendaire'' on my behalf.

'''Gerald:''' Are you quite sure about this, Captain?
'''Carvallain:''' Let us be thankful for that adventurer showing up when he did. If that man had forced his way to my office, I shudder to think of what might have ensued.
'''Carvallain:''' 'Tis strange, though... For long years the mere sight of the man's face filled me with loathing. But seeing it again now, I feel only this odd sense of...nostalgia.
'''Carvallain:''' And yet, I dare not entertain the thought of doing anything more. It would only serve to undo all I have accomplished.
'''Carvallain:''' ...No, I have no mind to give up my freedom for whatever I might gain in its place. Yes, this will do...

''Optional dialogue''
'''Carvallain:''' The Count de Durendaire is waiting. I suggest you deliver the document with all speed─I have it on good account that he is not a patient man.
'''Francel:''' Dare I ask how you fared in there, [Forename]?

===Deliver the contract to Charlemend.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Well? Do you have anything to show for your efforts? [Item Request: Signed Contract]
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Why, this is...more than I dared to hope we would achieve! However did you manage this!?

'''''What will you say?'''''
> Your passionate plea won him over.
> He chose to believe in Ishgard's future.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' He did? Pirate or no, this man clearly has done his research on our great nation, and I commend him for his wisdom and prescience.
> I made him an offer he couldn't refuse.

'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' At any rate, I have finally accomplished that which I sought to here in Eorzea, and can finally return to Ishgard in triumph, as befitting the lord of the highest of houses.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I am in your debt, Lord Charlemend. And you, [Forename]. With this, the day that the finest goods from the realm over are traded freely in the markets of Featherfall is all but upon us!
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

A Parley with Pirates

2026-05-19T15:25:08Z

WhyContainIt: /* Speak with Charlemend in front of the Missing Member. */ Added dialogue available after the conversation

{{Quest infobox
| title = A Parley with Pirates
| description = Francel has his eyes set on your next and final destination.
| image =
| quest-giver = Francel
| related-npcs = Carvallain; Charlemend; Charlemend de Durendaire; Gerald; Mealvaan's Gate Assessor; Melkoko; Quimperain; Raulf; Rhoswen; Z'ranmaia
| location = Ul'dah - Steps of Nald
| location-x = 11.5
| location-y = 9.1
| type = feature
| quest-line = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Records of Unusual Endeavors Quests
| journal-genre = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 60
| requirements =
| req-items = 1 Signed Contract
| exp = 25000
| gil = 940
| mettle =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest = Dealings in the Desert
| next-quest = May Featherfall Flourish
| release = shadowbringers
| patch = 5.35
| id-gt = 69493
| id-edb = 91911a26859
}}
==Steps==
*Speak with [[Charlemend]] at [[Bulwark Hall]] in [[Limsa Lominsa]].
*Speak with Charlemend.
*Speak with Charlemend in front of [[the Missing Member]].
*Speak with Charlemend once more.
*Speak with [[Carvallain]].
*Deliver the contract to Charlemend.

==Journal==
*Francel has his eyes set on your next and final destination.

*Encouraged by the success you experienced in both Gridania and Ul'dah, Francel has high hopes that negotiations in your final destination─Limsa Lominsa─will likewise bear fruit. Lord Charlemend, still deeply bitter about the disappearance of his son at sea some twenty years ago, is not keen to pay a visit to a den of pirates, but swallows his pride in hopes of avenging his loss by securing a trade agreement that will bring prosperity to his house and homeland alike. With a mixture of trepidation and anticipation, you set off for Limsa's Bulwark Hall to reunite with your companions.

*You arrive in Limsa, where Lord Charlemend─as is his wont─is quick to express his displeasure with his surroundings. Francel, however, cannot help but remark that the Count's temperament seems to have mellowed some over the course of the journey. You make for Mealvaan's Gate, eager to break new ground in your mission.

*At Mealvaan's Gate, an uncharacteristically diplomatic Lord Charlemend inquires with an assessor as to whether anyone in town might be willing to discuss a potential trade agreement with Ishgard. Though visibly dismayed to find out that this will involve a parley with pirates, he nevertheless resigns himself to the task. For your part, you resolve to follow him and Francel to the Missing Member to see if the Sanguine Sirens might be amenable to the offer.

*You accompany your friends to the Missing Member, where Lord Charlemend's best efforts to negotiate with Captain Rhoswen fall embarrassingly short of the mark. Doubtless lacking in experience dealing with rougher types, the nobleman is somewhat shaken, but not quite ready to abandon his efforts. Together with Lord Francel, you follow the count to the Seventh Sage, in hopes that the Krakens might prove a more receptive audience.

*Though the receptionist at the Seventh Sage is less overtly hostile than was Rhoswen, she makes it clear that─for reasons that are not entirely evident─she has been strictly forbidden from conducting business of any sort with Ishgard. Just when you fear all hope is lost, the conversation is interrupted by a message from none other than the captain himself, who apparently has agreed to entertain the offer, on the condition that it is you and you alone who presents it. Curious as to the reason for this, but not wishing to waste the opportunity, you make your way to the balcony for a parley with the pirate leader.

*Welcoming you to his inner sanctum, Carvallain carefully weighs your offer, eventually agreeing to the terms presented. It would appear that, despite his many misgivings, he is willing to invest in the idea that the nation of Ishgard has truly entered a new age of enlightenment, and that a partnership─albeit a limited one─with the Count de Durendaire might be for the best, after all. Forcing you to swear a promise that you will divulge not his name nor anything about him to your associates, the pirate captain provides you with a written agreement to deliver to Lord Charlemend, and sends you on your way.

*You hand over the document to Lord Charlemend, who is overcome with astonishment at hearing that your negotiation was a success. Though doubtless wishing he could have done the deed himself, the results are impossible for him to argue with, and─in uncharacteristic fashion─he expresses his sincere gratitude for your efforts on his house's behalf. Lord Francel, for his part, is delighted as well, as it is now clear that your mission has been an unqualified success─it is but a matter of time now until the markets of Featherfall flourish with a lively exchange of wares from all corners of Eorzea.

==Dialogue==
===Accepting the quest (Cutscene)===
'''Francel:''' Are you ready to take to the road again, [Forename]? Our final destination awaits us ─ Limsa Lominsa!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''Hmph...if we must.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Though if you truly expect to find a reliable trading partner in that den of pirates and ruffians, you are even more of a fool than I thought.
'''Francel:''' Believe me, Lord Charlemend, when I say that I bear no love for barbarous outlaws. That said, by all accounts things have changed much in the years since Admiral Bloefhiswyn rose to power.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''I have spoken of my son's disappearance to you in the past, have I not? If by chance you have forgotten, it was those accursed pirates who took him from me, and for that I will never forgive them.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''It was twenty long years ago. He was a boy of great promise, possessed of a curious mind and a burning desire to see the world. Then a murderous band of sea reavers raided his vessel, and...just like that, he was gone.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''To this day, the rumors reach my ears. That he rots in a gaol deep beneath the city. Or that someone resembling him has been seen wandering the streets. As his father, I want to believe he still lives somewhere, but there is only so long a man can...
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Ahem. What I mean to say is, I would not trust a pirate half as far as I could throw him. They are the scourge of our realm and my house, and I will have nothing to do with them.
'''Francel:''' You have my most heartfelt sympathies for the loss of your son, Lord Charlemend.
'''Francel:''' By no means do I wish to open old wounds and stir up painful memories. Pray return to Ishgard ahead of us. [Forename] and I shall handle matters from here.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...No. I will accompany you.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''Regardless of what happened ─ nay, precisely ''because'' of it ─ I will not shirk my duty as lord of House Durendaire.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I will march into that wretched hive of murder and villainy and seize from it a new age of prosperity for my house as due retribution for all they have taken from me.
'''Francel:''' If it is what you wish, my lord. Let us be on our way.
'''Francel:''' My preliminary research has led me to conclude that the area known as Bulwark Hall, a stone's throw from the airship landing, would make for a suitable place to commence our efforts.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Francel:''' So this is Limsa Lominsa! Why, it is even livelier than I imagined!

===Speak with Charlemend at Bulwark Hall in Limsa Lominsa.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' <sniff> The Fury take me...how can all these people abide that gods-awful stench of salt and brine in the air!?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Let us conclude our business swiftly and take our leave of this place. Lord Francel...I trust that your ''research'' has enlightened you as to where we might find a suitable trading partner?
'''Francel:''' Indeed it has, Lord Charlemend! I have read that all goods incoming and outgoing must pass inspection at a place called Mealvaan's Gate. No doubt that would be a productive place to begin our inquiry.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Hmph, I see. Very well, then, let us be off to this Mealvaan's Gate, or whatever the place was called.

'''Francel:''' Perhaps it is but wishful thinking on my part, but would you not say Lord Charlemend has softened some since we arrived here in Limsa? Why, he even waited for me to complete a full utterance before dashing off. Could it be that we have earned his trust?

''Optional dialogue''
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Yes? What business have ye at Mealvaan's Gate?

'''Francel:''' So this is where they conduct inspections on all goods imported to Limsa Lominsa. Most fascinating! I simply must take notes for future reference...

===Speak with Charlemend.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''You are employed here, yes? My companions and I hail from Ishgard, and we have come to Limsa to discuss matters of trade.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Then ye've most definitely come to the right place! Any inquiries ye may have regarding duties, tariffs, prohibited goods, and what-have-ye, I or one of my fellow assessors would be more than happy to enlighten ye!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...I see. To be precise, we seek to introduce wares from your nation to our own homeland, where we believe such items would be in demand. Might you be able to recommend to us a trader dealing in such wares?
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Aye, but of course! Why didn't ye say so sooner, my good man!? In that case, ye'll be wantin' to talk to one o' the three great pirate powers here in town.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Pirates!?
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Aye! 'Course, since the signin' of the Galadion Accord, they're more of an officially sanctioned agency, raidin' the Garleans at the Admiral's behest, takin' part in honest trade, and the like.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' 'Least, that much can be said o' the Sanguine Sirens and the Krakens. The Bloody Executioners are a whole 'nother matter, so I'd recommend ye limit any dealin' and negotiatin' ye feel like partakin' in to the former two.
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' I reckon the Sanguine Sirens would be as good a start as any, as they're known to be a bit more welcomin' to outsiders like yerselves. Ye'll find them over in the tavern known as the Missin' Member, if yer up for a parley.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:'''...Yes, I do believe I've heard enough. Thank you for your time, and good day.

'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I can scarce believe it has come to this, but I suppose we have no recourse. Well, Lord Francel? I trust you know the way to this “Missing Member”...

''Optional dialogue''
'''Mealvaan's Gate Assessor:''' Should ye cut yourself a deal, don't forget to report all yer imports and exports to Mealvaan's Gate. Otherwise, we'll claim what's due one way or the other...

'''Francel:''' This is my first time visiting an actual den of pirates. I must confess, I am rather excited and intimidated by it all!

===Speak with Charlemend in front of the Missing Member.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Everyone is here, yes? Then let us be on our way.

(Cutscene)
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' By the Fury! Why, it's a veritable haven of pirate wenches...
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...But I will not back down from this challenge. Watch closely, Lord Francel, and let me show you how a deal is made.
'''Melkoko:''' Greetings, and welcome to the Missing Member! Do you have a reservation, sir?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I...I do not. I have come from Ishgard to discuss matters of trade with the captain of the esteemed Sanguine Sirens, and I was told I might find her here.
'''Melkoko:''' You were, were you? Why, yes...I suppose you might. Make yourself comfortable and I'll go let the captain know that she's got a new vict ─ er, visitor.
'''Rhoswen:''' The 'ells ye want, drylanders? State yer business quick, and ye'd best hope it's worth my while, else me Sirens'll see ye gutted and sleepin' with the fishes before ye knew what cuffed ye!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' P-Pray stay your hand, ah...my lady. I meant only to consult with you on a p-potential business proposition that might prove...ahem...mutually b-beneficial.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I hail from the nation of Ishgard, and I...ah, do believe that your fine wares would be most highly s-sought after in our nation.
'''Rhoswen:''' Ishgard!? Ye must be daft to think any pirate in 'er right mind would have even 'alf a mind to set one foot in some bleedin' snow-swept wasteland at the edge o' the world!
'''Rhoswen:''' Ye must have me confused with that puffy-shirted captain o' the Krakens, or someone else who's got more swagger than sense. Now get out o' my sight before I cut out yer blabbin' tongue an' toss it into tonight's stew!
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' A thousand p-pardons, my lady. I shall take my leave anon and s-seek out these K-Krakens of whom you speak.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I th-thank you for your kindness, and wish you and your S-Sirens all the─
'''Rhoswen:''' I said ''get out of my'' ─ wait a bleedin' minute. Why does that self-righteous face o' yers seem ''so'' bloody familiar...?
'''Rhoswen:''' Bah, never mind. I've bigger fish to gut. Now begone from here, or ye'll be joinin' 'em!
'''Melkoko:''' If I were you, I'd be taking her advice to heart. You'll find the Krakens at the Seventh Sage, just past here and beyond the Drowning Wench. I do hope your parley there proves more...fruitful.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Rhoswen:''' I could swear I've seen that smug old bastard's self-satisfied mug somewhere before, but bugger me if I could tell ye where...

'''Melkoko:''' Have you been to the Seventh Sage yet? I suspect the Krakens will give you a warmer welcome than you found here.

'''Francel:''' Considering his son's tragic disappearance at sea, one can only imagine the complex emotions the count must be feeling. Let us tread lightly, friend.

===Speak with Charlemend once more. (Cutscene)===
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Welcome to the Seventh Sage! Would you care to peruse our diverse array of exotic herbs and spices?
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...Ahem. Pardon me, my good lady. I am Charlemend of House Durendaire, and I have traveled to your fair nation from Ishgard.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Might you or any of your colleagues perchance be interested in selling your fine spices in my homeland? I can assure you many of my countrymen would be willing to pay a handsome price for them.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' D-Durendaire, did you say!? I, ah...
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...My sincere apologies, good sir, but in accordance with...ah...company policy, we are not entering into partnerships with parties from the Holy See at this time.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' No parties from the Holy See...? What insular, closed-minded nonsense is─
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...Ahem. What I mean to say is, we are prepared to make the arrangement ''most'' appetizing to you. As appetizing as salted harbor herring, one might say.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' To wit: our astrologians have devised a method to accurately gauge one's present location and bearing regardless of the season, a technique which I do believe would be most beneficial to esteemed privateers such as yourselves.
'''Carvallain:''' To think the old man would be willing to reveal a treasured house secret to outsiders ─ dastardly, despicable ''pirates'', no less...
'''Carvallain:''' ...Perhaps there's hope for Ishgard yet.
''Z'ranmaia's linkshell rings.''
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...Ahem. Pray excuse me for a moment.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' C-Captain!? Why, yes. Worry not. I was just about to bid our guest farewell, as per your explicit orders not to─
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Wh-What's that? Are you certain? ...I see. I'll convey the message, then. Forgive me for my hasty decision.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' ...Ahem. The captain says he will entertain your proposition, but on one condition: he will only speak to the adventurer here.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' ...I see. In that case, I have little choice. [Forename], was it? I have done little to deserve your charity, but I would ask you this one favor. Might I entrust the negotiations to you?
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Very well, then. If you would come this way...
'''Z'ranmaia:''' Captain Carvallain of the Krakens awaits you atop the stairs.
'''Z'ranmaia:''' One more thing: you are by ''no'' means to speak his name, nor describe his face to anyone from Ishgard, or he will ''personally'' have you keelhauled. No hard feelings, of course.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I know not what you have done to earn a pirate captain's trust, but ─ in this rarest of cases ─ I am most thankful for it.

'''Francel:''' I place my full trust in you, [Forename]. May the negotiations be a success!

===Speak with Carvallain (Cutscene)===
'''Carvallain:''' My associate has apprised me of the situation. So this delegation from the See wishes to establish trade relations with us, do they?
'''Carvallain:''' The Ishgardians...consumed only with their petty war...living out their days in that gloomy, frigid land devoid of passion or imagination... Just thinking back to my dreary days in that miserable place is enough to make me ill.
'''Carvallain:''' But with the war's end, it would appear that a new wind blows in my homeland...
'''Carvallain:''' While I am not so naive to assume that they have left their past entirely behind, I will trust that the See's desire to change ─ as well as that of the man who has come to me on their behalf ─ is sincere.
'''Carvallain:''' Anything to keep that most fearsome Lalafellin acquaintance of yours from making things ''difficult'' for me...
'''Carvallain:''' Gerald! The document.
'''Carvallain:''' This here is an agreement consenting to the formal commencement of trade between the Krakens and House Durendaire of Ishgard. It is in Gerald's name, and marked with our official seal to authorize the transaction.
'''Carvallain:''' I would appreciate if you could deliver this to the ''Count de Durendaire'' on my behalf.

'''Gerald:''' Are you quite sure about this, Captain?
'''Carvallain:''' Let us be thankful for that adventurer showing up when he did. If that man had forced his way to my office, I shudder to think of what might have ensued.
'''Carvallain:''' 'Tis strange, though... For long years the mere sight of the man's face filled me with loathing. But seeing it again now, I feel only this odd sense of...nostalgia.
'''Carvallain:''' And yet, I dare not entertain the thought of doing anything more. It would only serve to undo all I have accomplished.
'''Carvallain:''' ...No, I have no mind to give up my freedom for whatever I might gain in its place. Yes, this will do...

''Optional dialogue''
'''Francel:''' Dare I ask how you fared in there, [Forename]?

===Deliver the contract to Charlemend.===
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Well? Do you have anything to show for your efforts? [Item Request: Signed Contract]
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' Why, this is...more than I dared to hope we would achieve! However did you manage this!?

'''''What will you say?'''''
> Your passionate plea won him over.
> He chose to believe in Ishgard's future.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' He did? Pirate or no, this man clearly has done his research on our great nation, and I commend him for his wisdom and prescience.
> I made him an offer he couldn't refuse.

'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' At any rate, I have finally accomplished that which I sought to here in Eorzea, and can finally return to Ishgard in triumph, as befitting the lord of the highest of houses.
'''Charlemend de Durendaire:''' I am in your debt, Lord Charlemend. And you, [Forename]. With this, the day that the finest goods from the realm over are traded freely in the markets of Featherfall is all but upon us!
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

The Making of a Market

2026-05-19T11:12:09Z

WhyContainIt: /* Speak with Francel. */ Tentatively removed the note about completing "Sweet Words, Shadowy Dealings" to get the Homunculi line to Maisenta until someone else can confirm it's absent otherwise. I'm not taking an extra character to that level to find out.

{{Quest infobox
| title = The Making of a Market
| description = Francel is ever looking upward toward new heights for the Firmament.
| image =
| quest-giver = Francel
| related-npcs = Charlemend; Charlemend de Durendaire; Foncrineau; Guarded Gridanian; Maisenta; Mistrustful Merchant
| location = The Firmament
| location-x = 12.2
| location-y = 11.3
| type = feature
| quest-line = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Records of Unusual Endeavors Quests
| journal-genre = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 60
| requirements =
| req-items =
| exp = 25000
| gil = 778
| mettle =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest = To Thaw a Frozen Heart
| next-quest = Dealings in the Desert
| release = shadowbringers
| patch = 5.35
| id-gt = 69491
| id-edb = 0a6a80efb07
}}
==Steps==
*Speak with [[Francel]] at [[the Carline Canopy]] in [[Gridania]].
*Speak with [[Charlemend de Durendaire]].
*Wait for passersby outside the [[Leatherworkers' Guild]].
*Speak with Francel.

==Journal==
*Francel is ever looking upward toward new heights for the Firmament.

*Lord Francel rejoices at your return, and cheerfully regales you with the latest tidings regarding the continued restoration and development of the Firmament. As the young nobleman tells it, his newest goal is to transform the district into a new hub of trade befitting this new age in which Ishgard has opened itself to the world. To that end, he seeks to visit the three nations in hopes of enticing prominent merchants and traders to enter into a mutually profitable business partnership. No sooner has he asked for your escort than you are joined by none other than Count Charlemend de Durendaire, who imperiously insists that he join you on your expedition. Apprehensive but cautiously optimistic as to what lies ahead, you set off for the Carline Canopy in Gridania to join Francel and the count.

*You reconvene with Lord Francel and Lord Charlemend in Gridania. No sooner have you greeted your companions than does the Count de Durendaire rush off to engage the local populace, confident that the prestige and influence of his great house will suffice to make the trade negotiations a swift success. Lord Francel, for his part, is skeptical of this approach, and the two of you resolve to pursue the count, lest he unintentionally sabotage the mission at hand.

*You venture out into the streets of Gridania to find that Lord Charlemend has managed only to incur the ire of the townspeople with his pompous, overbearing attitude. Fearing the consequences if the Count de Durendaire presses on with his heavy-handed approach, Lord Francel calmly and diplomatically suggests that the three of you regroup and try your luck at one of the many artisan guilds for which the forest city-state is known, a proposal to which Lord Charlemend grudgingly agrees.

*You arrive at the Leatherworkers' Guild, where Lord Francel's more measured approach immediately proves to bear fruit, thanks in large part to a fortuitous meeting with a mercenary-turned-merchant who plied his former trade at Camp Dragonhead during the war. The young man instantly recognizes Lord Francel, and─after sharing a moment's reminiscence about the beloved, departed Lord Haurchefant─eagerly offers to aid your cause by introducing you to his employer, Maisenta of the prestigious Black Rabbit Traders. Overjoyed at this turn of events, Lord Francel thanks the former swordsman, and prepares to welcome his potential new trading partner as the Count de Durendaire grumbles and grouses beside you.

*Though Maisenta is initially skeptical of what she and her organization stand to gain from expanding their business to Ishgard, you are successfully able to argue on Lord Francel's behalf, convincing the shrewd trader that the arrangement promises to be lucrative for both parties. Offering a verbal agreement to prepare a shipment of wares to grace the Firmament's markets, she takes her leave to begin the necessary preparations. Encouraged by your success in Gridania, Lord Francel is eager to move on to your next destination. The Count de Durendaire, on the other hand, appears keen to prove that this was but a case of novice's luck...

==Dialogue==
'''Francel:''' [Forename]! 'Tis always a pleasure to see you here in the Firmament. You'll be pleased to hear that the district is home to an ever-growing number of thoroughly satisfied residents, thanks in no small part to your tireless efforts on our behalf.
'''Francel:''' In particular, I'm proud to say that we have spared no effort to realize Lady Hilda's ideal of a place where one and all can have a roof over their head and food in their belly, provided they are willing to work hard and make an honest living.
'''Francel:''' Seeing as things are progressing most swimmingly on that front, I have decided to turn my eye to Lord Briardien's most astute recommendation: encouraging the flow of goods and services, so as to build a thriving economy that will serve as the area's lifeblood.
'''Francel:''' As such, Augebert and his men have been hard at work putting the final touches on the ward I have dubbed Featherfall, which is to serve as the Firmament's center of commerce and trade. There is but one remaining issue to resolve...
'''Francel:''' Namely, how we might distinguish our own marketplace from the Jeweled Crozier. After all, if we hope to attract vendors and customers alike to the Firmament, we must offer something that they cannot already find at a more established location.
'''Francel:''' After giving the matter considerable thought, it struck me ─ what if we were to bring in merchants from the realm over to ply their trade here, that Featherfall might be the Holy See's new hub of foreign trade?
'''Francel:''' It is a most inspired idea, would you not say? And─ if you would not disapprove ─ I would ask you to accompany me as our designated emissary to the three city-states.After all, who better to convince our esteemed guests to make the journey here to Ishgard than one of your influence and prestige?
'''???''': And if you would not disapprove─or, quite honestly, even if you would ─ I will be accompanying you as well.
'''Francel:''' L-Lord Charlemend!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''It is far from my place to object, but for whatever reason would the Count de Durendaire wish to come along on our humble expedition? Particularly in light of your honored house's rather...shall we say, conservative...views toward the expansion of foreign trade...
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I'll thank you not to make assumptions about the interests of my house, ''Lord'' Francel. I have always acted in what I believe to be my homeland's best interests. And I will ''continue'' to do so.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''But I assure you that we took only the necessary precautions to defend the See from external threats at a time of war. Surely the savior of Ishgard can understand our position.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' At any rate, the war is over, and our nation has entered a new age. I am not inclined to sit idly by as House Durendaire is left behind the times.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' And yet, at this most vital of junctures, my son and heir remains lost at sea, and my cousins are either too young or unworldly for the task. And so it falls to me to see to matters myself.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I daresay there is some merit for you as well. After all, whatever negotiations you intend to conduct, they can only be aided by the presence of the head of Ishgard's highest of High Houses.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''...I trust you have no objections?
'''Francel:''' Your offer of assistance is most generous, Lord Charlemend. I would not dream of refusing it.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Of course not. We depart at once, yes? I've heard Gridania is most lovely at this time of year.
'''Francel:''' Y-Yes...my intention was always to begin our expedition at our closest neighbor. I have it on good word that an establishment there known as the Carline Canopy would be a suitable─
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' The Carline Canopy it is, then. Do take care not to lag behind, yes?
'''Francel:''' L-Lord Charlemend! Wait!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...So this is Gridania. The tomes fail to mention how disagreeably dank it is.

===Speak with France at the Carline Canopy in Gridania.===
'''Francel:''' ...So this is Gridania! Why, it is even more verdant and lush than I had imagined!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Hmph. A danker, gloomier city I can scarce imagine. I am glad I do not live here.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...And yet, this nation is home to a great number of our own kind. Convincing an Elezen trader or two to come to Ishgard will be done in less than the time it takes for an afternoon tea.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' To start, I will enlist the services of one of the locals. Feel free to come along, Lord Francel ─ mayhap you'll learn something.
'''Francel:''' W-Wait...Lord Charlemend!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Oh dear, [Forename]. This is precisely what I was afraid of!
'''Francel:''' I did some research before our departure. No doubt this is common knowledge to you, but I read that Gridanians are reserved types who do not warm easily to outsiders ─ if perhaps not to the degree of our own people.
'''Francel:''' I fear the count ─ for all his good intentions ─ might sour the local populace on our offer before we can even make it. Come, we must stop him!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Francel:''' Phew! Fortunately, it would seem he has yet to engage the townspeople...
'''Guarded Gridanian:''' Hm? Who are you, and what business have you here?

===Speak with Charlemand de Durendaire.===
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' You there. I am looking to speak with one of your nation's most prominent traders. Tell me where I might find such a person, and be quick about it ─ I'm a busy man.
'''Guarded Gridanian:''' Hm? I'm not in the habit of entertaining outsiders ─ rude, arrogant ones least of all. Bugger off and do it yourself!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' What!? Why, the sheer ''gall'' of that woman!
'''Francel:''' With all due respect, Lord Charlemend...we are guests in this land. Just as you and I were once wary of outsiders like good [Forename] here, so, too, are these people wary of us.
'''Francel:''' In the world outside the Holy See, our titles or the prestige of our houses will avail us no special privilege. Mayhap it would behoove us to conduct our affairs with a measure of humility...
'''Francel:''' ...But I fear we have already aroused the suspicion of the townspeople. Let us try our luck at another location...mayhap one of the guilds for which this place is so well known?
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Hmph. A guild, you say? Very well. Let us stop blithering and be off.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' If you know the way to this guild, then let us be off already, yes? The sooner we can take our leave of this place, the better, I say.

'''Francel:''' If I recall, the Leatherworkers' Guild is in the part of town known as Old Gridania. Would that be correct, [Forename]?

===Wait for passersby outside the Leatherworkers' Guild.===
'''Francel:''' Yes, this place seems rather lively. No doubt we can find someone willing to assist us here.
'''Francel:''' I beg your pardon, my esteemed sir! I am a humble visitor from Ishgard, and I was wondering if I might trouble you with a question or two.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Hm? What's that, now?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Wait... Can it be...Lord Francel? Hah, it ''is'' you! Whatever brings you to the Twelveswood?
'''Francel:''' What? Pray forgive me, I do not believe I have had the pleasure...
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' You wouldn't know me, but I sure know you. During the war, I plied my trade as a sellsword at Camp Dragonhead. You often came to dine at Lord Haurchefant's invitation, yes?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Why...that I did! Lord Haurchefant was a most benevolent man. There were few things he enjoyed more than sharing a good meal in the company of his friends and his men alike.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Aye, and I was one of them. I fondly remember the times I sat at his table, sharing in his meat and mead. In the warmth of his hall and his company, for a moment you could forget the bitter cold outside.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' It's a memory that's stayed with me to this day, long after I returned to Gridania and hung up my blade. Lord Haurchefant was a great man, and I had hoped to return to Ishgard one day to visit him.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' But then the news of his tragic passing arrived... Even now, I find it hard to believe he's gone.
'''Francel:''' I as well, my friend. Not a day goes by that I do not think of him, and the kindness he showed me in the darkest of days...
'''Francel:''' And though I will forever mourn his passing, I take solace in knowing that his sacrifice was not for naught. For because of those like him ─ and [Forename] here ─ the war is at long last over, and our nation welcomes a new age of enlightenment and restoration.
'''Francel:''' So it is that we come here to fair Gridania, in hopes of establishing trade that will benefit both our nations. Might you perhaps know of any merchants or traders who might be interested in exploring such a possibility?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Do I ever! And nothing would please me more than to be able to return the kindness that your countrymen showed me!
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' It just so happens that I do work for Black Rabbit Traders these days. Perhaps you've heard of them? Maisenta's in charge there, and she's always looking for promising new business partners! Just wait here ─ I'll bring her right over!
'''Francel:''' My good man, it is as if the gods themselves sent you to us! If she does not mind the imposition, I would be honored to meet this Lady Maisenta!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I had known that Lord Haurchefant was undiscerning in the company he kept, but to think that it would be to the benefit of our nation...

===Speak with Francel.===
'''Francel:''' I trust that you've met this Lady Maisenta, [Forename]? Do you suppose she'll be receptive to our offer?
'''Maisenta:''' So you're the guest from Ishgard I've heard so much about. I am Maisenta, of Black Rabbit Traders fame. I hear you have a business proposition for me?
'''Francel:''' It is a pleasure and an honor both to make your acquaintance, Lady Maisenta. I am Francel de Haillenarte, and I have the privilege of overseeing the reconstruction of our fair city, a task which includes building a thriving economy.
'''Francel:''' To that end, I wish to invite the realm's preeminent trading concerns to establish outposts in our new commercial district. If it please you, will you not consider bringing your operations to Ishgard?
'''Maisenta:''' I'd heard that you Ishgardians opened your borders, but quite frankly, I wasn't expecting to receive such an eager and enthusiastic proposition.
'''Maisenta:''' ...And it's an interesting one, I'll grant you that. Still, as much as I'd like to be of aid, I run a business here, not a charity.
'''Maisenta:''' And so I'm forced to ask: why should I expand to Ishgard? What do you offer that other places do not?
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' A well-founded concern, of course... Be assured that our nation offers businesses many opportunities. For example...er...

'''''What will you say?'''''
> You'll have immediate access to the finest Ishgardian wares.
'''Maisenta:''' Now that you mention it, I daresay that Ishgardian furs and fine cuisine could command a high price here in Gridania...
> Ishgardian nobles are notorious spendthrifts...
'''Maisenta:''' Now that you mention it, if the well-heeled aristocrats of the High Houses are willing to open their coinpurses for Gridanian craftsmanship, it could prove quite profitable...
> Picture it now: the Homunculi tour the Holy See...
'''Maisenta:''' Well, aren't you a shrewd one! Yes, I have no doubt that the mellifluous musical stylings of Gridania's preeminent band of troubadours would serve to lift the spirits of our Ishgardian friends in the aftermath of the war─and loosen the strings of their coinpurses in the process.

'''Maisenta:''' All right...[Forename] here's convinced me. The Black Rabbit will come to Ishgard.
'''Francel:''' Oh, thank you, Lady Maisenta! You do us a kindness that we will not soon forget!
'''Maisenta:''' You can spare me the flowery words. I'm only looking out for my own business interests...as I trust you are as well, no?
'''Maisenta:''' In any event, I'd best be going. We'll have to take a full inventory to determine which of our fine goods to bring north. As they say, the Traders do not smile on those who tarry...
'''Francel:''' Oh, thank you ever so much, my friend! I could never have done this without you!
'''Francel:''' Lady Maisenta's question was only to be expected, yet I found myself at a loss. Your impeccable knowledge of the realm and calmness under pressure have served us well once more.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...Hmph. You have succeeded here despite the involvement of Houses Haillenarte and Fortemps, not because of it.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' The citizens of the sultanate are far more discerning, but fear not. I will show you how negotiations among the upper crust are truly done.
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

The Making of a Market

2026-05-19T02:07:24Z

WhyContainIt: /* Speak with Francel. */ This formatting for the line you can only say if you've done Moogle Delivery (Sweet Words, Shadowy Dealings) seems slightly better? I can't find any other example offhand of how to format a quest giving you an additional option iff you've completed another quest. Though... I suppose I'm not 100% sure if this option only appears then, or if that's available to everyone and wasn't at some time in the past?

{{Quest infobox
| title = The Making of a Market
| description = Francel is ever looking upward toward new heights for the Firmament.
| image =
| quest-giver = Francel
| related-npcs = Charlemend; Charlemend de Durendaire; Foncrineau; Guarded Gridanian; Maisenta; Mistrustful Merchant
| location = The Firmament
| location-x = 12.2
| location-y = 11.3
| type = feature
| quest-line = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Records of Unusual Endeavors Quests
| journal-genre = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 60
| requirements =
| req-items =
| exp = 25000
| gil = 778
| mettle =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest = To Thaw a Frozen Heart
| next-quest = Dealings in the Desert
| release = shadowbringers
| patch = 5.35
| id-gt = 69491
| id-edb = 0a6a80efb07
}}
==Steps==
*Speak with [[Francel]] at [[the Carline Canopy]] in [[Gridania]].
*Speak with [[Charlemend de Durendaire]].
*Wait for passersby outside the [[Leatherworkers' Guild]].
*Speak with Francel.

==Journal==
*Francel is ever looking upward toward new heights for the Firmament.

*Lord Francel rejoices at your return, and cheerfully regales you with the latest tidings regarding the continued restoration and development of the Firmament. As the young nobleman tells it, his newest goal is to transform the district into a new hub of trade befitting this new age in which Ishgard has opened itself to the world. To that end, he seeks to visit the three nations in hopes of enticing prominent merchants and traders to enter into a mutually profitable business partnership. No sooner has he asked for your escort than you are joined by none other than Count Charlemend de Durendaire, who imperiously insists that he join you on your expedition. Apprehensive but cautiously optimistic as to what lies ahead, you set off for the Carline Canopy in Gridania to join Francel and the count.

*You reconvene with Lord Francel and Lord Charlemend in Gridania. No sooner have you greeted your companions than does the Count de Durendaire rush off to engage the local populace, confident that the prestige and influence of his great house will suffice to make the trade negotiations a swift success. Lord Francel, for his part, is skeptical of this approach, and the two of you resolve to pursue the count, lest he unintentionally sabotage the mission at hand.

*You venture out into the streets of Gridania to find that Lord Charlemend has managed only to incur the ire of the townspeople with his pompous, overbearing attitude. Fearing the consequences if the Count de Durendaire presses on with his heavy-handed approach, Lord Francel calmly and diplomatically suggests that the three of you regroup and try your luck at one of the many artisan guilds for which the forest city-state is known, a proposal to which Lord Charlemend grudgingly agrees.

*You arrive at the Leatherworkers' Guild, where Lord Francel's more measured approach immediately proves to bear fruit, thanks in large part to a fortuitous meeting with a mercenary-turned-merchant who plied his former trade at Camp Dragonhead during the war. The young man instantly recognizes Lord Francel, and─after sharing a moment's reminiscence about the beloved, departed Lord Haurchefant─eagerly offers to aid your cause by introducing you to his employer, Maisenta of the prestigious Black Rabbit Traders. Overjoyed at this turn of events, Lord Francel thanks the former swordsman, and prepares to welcome his potential new trading partner as the Count de Durendaire grumbles and grouses beside you.

*Though Maisenta is initially skeptical of what she and her organization stand to gain from expanding their business to Ishgard, you are successfully able to argue on Lord Francel's behalf, convincing the shrewd trader that the arrangement promises to be lucrative for both parties. Offering a verbal agreement to prepare a shipment of wares to grace the Firmament's markets, she takes her leave to begin the necessary preparations. Encouraged by your success in Gridania, Lord Francel is eager to move on to your next destination. The Count de Durendaire, on the other hand, appears keen to prove that this was but a case of novice's luck...

==Dialogue==
'''Francel:''' [Forename]! 'Tis always a pleasure to see you here in the Firmament. You'll be pleased to hear that the district is home to an ever-growing number of thoroughly satisfied residents, thanks in no small part to your tireless efforts on our behalf.
'''Francel:''' In particular, I'm proud to say that we have spared no effort to realize Lady Hilda's ideal of a place where one and all can have a roof over their head and food in their belly, provided they are willing to work hard and make an honest living.
'''Francel:''' Seeing as things are progressing most swimmingly on that front, I have decided to turn my eye to Lord Briardien's most astute recommendation: encouraging the flow of goods and services, so as to build a thriving economy that will serve as the area's lifeblood.
'''Francel:''' As such, Augebert and his men have been hard at work putting the final touches on the ward I have dubbed Featherfall, which is to serve as the Firmament's center of commerce and trade. There is but one remaining issue to resolve...
'''Francel:''' Namely, how we might distinguish our own marketplace from the Jeweled Crozier. After all, if we hope to attract vendors and customers alike to the Firmament, we must offer something that they cannot already find at a more established location.
'''Francel:''' After giving the matter considerable thought, it struck me ─ what if we were to bring in merchants from the realm over to ply their trade here, that Featherfall might be the Holy See's new hub of foreign trade?
'''Francel:''' It is a most inspired idea, would you not say? And─ if you would not disapprove ─ I would ask you to accompany me as our designated emissary to the three city-states.After all, who better to convince our esteemed guests to make the journey here to Ishgard than one of your influence and prestige?
'''???''': And if you would not disapprove─or, quite honestly, even if you would ─ I will be accompanying you as well.
'''Francel:''' L-Lord Charlemend!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''It is far from my place to object, but for whatever reason would the Count de Durendaire wish to come along on our humble expedition? Particularly in light of your honored house's rather...shall we say, conservative...views toward the expansion of foreign trade...
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I'll thank you not to make assumptions about the interests of my house, ''Lord'' Francel. I have always acted in what I believe to be my homeland's best interests. And I will ''continue'' to do so.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''But I assure you that we took only the necessary precautions to defend the See from external threats at a time of war. Surely the savior of Ishgard can understand our position.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' At any rate, the war is over, and our nation has entered a new age. I am not inclined to sit idly by as House Durendaire is left behind the times.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' And yet, at this most vital of junctures, my son and heir remains lost at sea, and my cousins are either too young or unworldly for the task. And so it falls to me to see to matters myself.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I daresay there is some merit for you as well. After all, whatever negotiations you intend to conduct, they can only be aided by the presence of the head of Ishgard's highest of High Houses.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''...I trust you have no objections?
'''Francel:''' Your offer of assistance is most generous, Lord Charlemend. I would not dream of refusing it.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Of course not. We depart at once, yes? I've heard Gridania is most lovely at this time of year.
'''Francel:''' Y-Yes...my intention was always to begin our expedition at our closest neighbor. I have it on good word that an establishment there known as the Carline Canopy would be a suitable─
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' The Carline Canopy it is, then. Do take care not to lag behind, yes?
'''Francel:''' L-Lord Charlemend! Wait!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...So this is Gridania. The tomes fail to mention how disagreeably dank it is.

===Speak with France at the Carline Canopy in Gridania.===
'''Francel:''' ...So this is Gridania! Why, it is even more verdant and lush than I had imagined!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Hmph. A danker, gloomier city I can scarce imagine. I am glad I do not live here.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...And yet, this nation is home to a great number of our own kind. Convincing an Elezen trader or two to come to Ishgard will be done in less than the time it takes for an afternoon tea.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' To start, I will enlist the services of one of the locals. Feel free to come along, Lord Francel ─ mayhap you'll learn something.
'''Francel:''' W-Wait...Lord Charlemend!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Oh dear, [Forename]. This is precisely what I was afraid of!
'''Francel:''' I did some research before our departure. No doubt this is common knowledge to you, but I read that Gridanians are reserved types who do not warm easily to outsiders ─ if perhaps not to the degree of our own people.
'''Francel:''' I fear the count ─ for all his good intentions ─ might sour the local populace on our offer before we can even make it. Come, we must stop him!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Francel:''' Phew! Fortunately, it would seem he has yet to engage the townspeople...
'''Guarded Gridanian:''' Hm? Who are you, and what business have you here?

===Speak with Charlemand de Durendaire.===
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' You there. I am looking to speak with one of your nation's most prominent traders. Tell me where I might find such a person, and be quick about it ─ I'm a busy man.
'''Guarded Gridanian:''' Hm? I'm not in the habit of entertaining outsiders ─ rude, arrogant ones least of all. Bugger off and do it yourself!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' What!? Why, the sheer ''gall'' of that woman!
'''Francel:''' With all due respect, Lord Charlemend...we are guests in this land. Just as you and I were once wary of outsiders like good [Forename] here, so, too, are these people wary of us.
'''Francel:''' In the world outside the Holy See, our titles or the prestige of our houses will avail us no special privilege. Mayhap it would behoove us to conduct our affairs with a measure of humility...
'''Francel:''' ...But I fear we have already aroused the suspicion of the townspeople. Let us try our luck at another location...mayhap one of the guilds for which this place is so well known?
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Hmph. A guild, you say? Very well. Let us stop blithering and be off.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' If you know the way to this guild, then let us be off already, yes? The sooner we can take our leave of this place, the better, I say.

'''Francel:''' If I recall, the Leatherworkers' Guild is in the part of town known as Old Gridania. Would that be correct, [Forename]?

===Wait for passersby outside the Leatherworkers' Guild.===
'''Francel:''' Yes, this place seems rather lively. No doubt we can find someone willing to assist us here.
'''Francel:''' I beg your pardon, my esteemed sir! I am a humble visitor from Ishgard, and I was wondering if I might trouble you with a question or two.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Hm? What's that, now?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Wait... Can it be...Lord Francel? Hah, it ''is'' you! Whatever brings you to the Twelveswood?
'''Francel:''' What? Pray forgive me, I do not believe I have had the pleasure...
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' You wouldn't know me, but I sure know you. During the war, I plied my trade as a sellsword at Camp Dragonhead. You often came to dine at Lord Haurchefant's invitation, yes?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Why...that I did! Lord Haurchefant was a most benevolent man. There were few things he enjoyed more than sharing a good meal in the company of his friends and his men alike.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Aye, and I was one of them. I fondly remember the times I sat at his table, sharing in his meat and mead. In the warmth of his hall and his company, for a moment you could forget the bitter cold outside.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' It's a memory that's stayed with me to this day, long after I returned to Gridania and hung up my blade. Lord Haurchefant was a great man, and I had hoped to return to Ishgard one day to visit him.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' But then the news of his tragic passing arrived... Even now, I find it hard to believe he's gone.
'''Francel:''' I as well, my friend. Not a day goes by that I do not think of him, and the kindness he showed me in the darkest of days...
'''Francel:''' And though I will forever mourn his passing, I take solace in knowing that his sacrifice was not for naught. For because of those like him ─ and [Forename] here ─ the war is at long last over, and our nation welcomes a new age of enlightenment and restoration.
'''Francel:''' So it is that we come here to fair Gridania, in hopes of establishing trade that will benefit both our nations. Might you perhaps know of any merchants or traders who might be interested in exploring such a possibility?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Do I ever! And nothing would please me more than to be able to return the kindness that your countrymen showed me!
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' It just so happens that I do work for Black Rabbit Traders these days. Perhaps you've heard of them? Maisenta's in charge there, and she's always looking for promising new business partners! Just wait here ─ I'll bring her right over!
'''Francel:''' My good man, it is as if the gods themselves sent you to us! If she does not mind the imposition, I would be honored to meet this Lady Maisenta!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I had known that Lord Haurchefant was undiscerning in the company he kept, but to think that it would be to the benefit of our nation...

===Speak with Francel.===
'''Francel:''' I trust that you've met this Lady Maisenta, [Forename]? Do you suppose she'll be receptive to our offer?
'''Maisenta:''' So you're the guest from Ishgard I've heard so much about. I am Maisenta, of Black Rabbit Traders fame. I hear you have a business proposition for me?
'''Francel:''' It is a pleasure and an honor both to make your acquaintance, Lady Maisenta. I am Francel de Haillenarte, and I have the privilege of overseeing the reconstruction of our fair city, a task which includes building a thriving economy.
'''Francel:''' To that end, I wish to invite the realm's preeminent trading concerns to establish outposts in our new commercial district. If it please you, will you not consider bringing your operations to Ishgard?
'''Maisenta:''' I'd heard that you Ishgardians opened your borders, but quite frankly, I wasn't expecting to receive such an eager and enthusiastic proposition.
'''Maisenta:''' ...And it's an interesting one, I'll grant you that. Still, as much as I'd like to be of aid, I run a business here, not a charity.
'''Maisenta:''' And so I'm forced to ask: why should I expand to Ishgard? What do you offer that other places do not?
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' A well-founded concern, of course... Be assured that our nation offers businesses many opportunities. For example...er...

'''''What will you say?'''''
> You'll have immediate access to the finest Ishgardian wares.
'''Maisenta:''' Now that you mention it, I daresay that Ishgardian furs and fine cuisine could command a high price here in Gridania...
> Ishgardian nobles are notorious spendthrifts...
'''Maisenta:''' Now that you mention it, if the well-heeled aristocrats of the High Houses are willing to open their coinpurses for Gridanian craftsmanship, it could prove quite profitable...
> Picture it now: the Homunculi tour the Holy See... ''(after completion of {{quest icon|Sweet Words, Shadowy Dealings}})''
'''Maisenta:''' Well, aren't you a shrewd one! Yes, I have no doubt that the mellifluous musical stylings of Gridania's preeminent band of troubadours would serve to lift the spirits of our Ishgardian friends in the aftermath of the war─and loosen the strings of their coinpurses in the process.

'''Maisenta:''' All right...[Forename] here's convinced me. The Black Rabbit will come to Ishgard.
'''Francel:''' Oh, thank you, Lady Maisenta! You do us a kindness that we will not soon forget!
'''Maisenta:''' You can spare me the flowery words. I'm only looking out for my own business interests...as I trust you are as well, no?
'''Maisenta:''' In any event, I'd best be going. We'll have to take a full inventory to determine which of our fine goods to bring north. As they say, the Traders do not smile on those who tarry...
'''Francel:''' Oh, thank you ever so much, my friend! I could never have done this without you!
'''Francel:''' Lady Maisenta's question was only to be expected, yet I found myself at a loss. Your impeccable knowledge of the realm and calmness under pressure have served us well once more.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...Hmph. You have succeeded here despite the involvement of Houses Haillenarte and Fortemps, not because of it.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' The citizens of the sultanate are far more discerning, but fear not. I will show you how negotiations among the upper crust are truly done.
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]

The Making of a Market

2026-05-18T21:49:03Z

WhyContainIt: /* Speak with Francel. */ - there's a special dialogue

{{Quest infobox
| title = The Making of a Market
| description = Francel is ever looking upward toward new heights for the Firmament.
| image =
| quest-giver = Francel
| related-npcs = Charlemend; Charlemend de Durendaire; Foncrineau; Guarded Gridanian; Maisenta; Mistrustful Merchant
| location = The Firmament
| location-x = 12.2
| location-y = 11.3
| type = feature
| quest-line = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Records of Unusual Endeavors Quests
| journal-genre = Ishgardian Restoration Main Quests
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 60
| requirements =
| req-items =
| exp = 25000
| gil = 778
| mettle =
| unlocks =
| prev-quest = To Thaw a Frozen Heart
| next-quest = Dealings in the Desert
| release = shadowbringers
| patch = 5.35
| id-gt = 69491
| id-edb = 0a6a80efb07
}}
==Steps==
*Speak with [[Francel]] at [[the Carline Canopy]] in [[Gridania]].
*Speak with [[Charlemend de Durendaire]].
*Wait for passersby outside the [[Leatherworkers' Guild]].
*Speak with Francel.

==Journal==
*Francel is ever looking upward toward new heights for the Firmament.

*Lord Francel rejoices at your return, and cheerfully regales you with the latest tidings regarding the continued restoration and development of the Firmament. As the young nobleman tells it, his newest goal is to transform the district into a new hub of trade befitting this new age in which Ishgard has opened itself to the world. To that end, he seeks to visit the three nations in hopes of enticing prominent merchants and traders to enter into a mutually profitable business partnership. No sooner has he asked for your escort than you are joined by none other than Count Charlemend de Durendaire, who imperiously insists that he join you on your expedition. Apprehensive but cautiously optimistic as to what lies ahead, you set off for the Carline Canopy in Gridania to join Francel and the count.

*You reconvene with Lord Francel and Lord Charlemend in Gridania. No sooner have you greeted your companions than does the Count de Durendaire rush off to engage the local populace, confident that the prestige and influence of his great house will suffice to make the trade negotiations a swift success. Lord Francel, for his part, is skeptical of this approach, and the two of you resolve to pursue the count, lest he unintentionally sabotage the mission at hand.

*You venture out into the streets of Gridania to find that Lord Charlemend has managed only to incur the ire of the townspeople with his pompous, overbearing attitude. Fearing the consequences if the Count de Durendaire presses on with his heavy-handed approach, Lord Francel calmly and diplomatically suggests that the three of you regroup and try your luck at one of the many artisan guilds for which the forest city-state is known, a proposal to which Lord Charlemend grudgingly agrees.

*You arrive at the Leatherworkers' Guild, where Lord Francel's more measured approach immediately proves to bear fruit, thanks in large part to a fortuitous meeting with a mercenary-turned-merchant who plied his former trade at Camp Dragonhead during the war. The young man instantly recognizes Lord Francel, and─after sharing a moment's reminiscence about the beloved, departed Lord Haurchefant─eagerly offers to aid your cause by introducing you to his employer, Maisenta of the prestigious Black Rabbit Traders. Overjoyed at this turn of events, Lord Francel thanks the former swordsman, and prepares to welcome his potential new trading partner as the Count de Durendaire grumbles and grouses beside you.

*Though Maisenta is initially skeptical of what she and her organization stand to gain from expanding their business to Ishgard, you are successfully able to argue on Lord Francel's behalf, convincing the shrewd trader that the arrangement promises to be lucrative for both parties. Offering a verbal agreement to prepare a shipment of wares to grace the Firmament's markets, she takes her leave to begin the necessary preparations. Encouraged by your success in Gridania, Lord Francel is eager to move on to your next destination. The Count de Durendaire, on the other hand, appears keen to prove that this was but a case of novice's luck...

==Dialogue==
'''Francel:''' [Forename]! 'Tis always a pleasure to see you here in the Firmament. You'll be pleased to hear that the district is home to an ever-growing number of thoroughly satisfied residents, thanks in no small part to your tireless efforts on our behalf.
'''Francel:''' In particular, I'm proud to say that we have spared no effort to realize Lady Hilda's ideal of a place where one and all can have a roof over their head and food in their belly, provided they are willing to work hard and make an honest living.
'''Francel:''' Seeing as things are progressing most swimmingly on that front, I have decided to turn my eye to Lord Briardien's most astute recommendation: encouraging the flow of goods and services, so as to build a thriving economy that will serve as the area's lifeblood.
'''Francel:''' As such, Augebert and his men have been hard at work putting the final touches on the ward I have dubbed Featherfall, which is to serve as the Firmament's center of commerce and trade. There is but one remaining issue to resolve...
'''Francel:''' Namely, how we might distinguish our own marketplace from the Jeweled Crozier. After all, if we hope to attract vendors and customers alike to the Firmament, we must offer something that they cannot already find at a more established location.
'''Francel:''' After giving the matter considerable thought, it struck me ─ what if we were to bring in merchants from the realm over to ply their trade here, that Featherfall might be the Holy See's new hub of foreign trade?
'''Francel:''' It is a most inspired idea, would you not say? And─ if you would not disapprove ─ I would ask you to accompany me as our designated emissary to the three city-states.After all, who better to convince our esteemed guests to make the journey here to Ishgard than one of your influence and prestige?
'''???''': And if you would not disapprove─or, quite honestly, even if you would ─ I will be accompanying you as well.
'''Francel:''' L-Lord Charlemend!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''It is far from my place to object, but for whatever reason would the Count de Durendaire wish to come along on our humble expedition? Particularly in light of your honored house's rather...shall we say, conservative...views toward the expansion of foreign trade...
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I'll thank you not to make assumptions about the interests of my house, ''Lord'' Francel. I have always acted in what I believe to be my homeland's best interests. And I will ''continue'' to do so.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''But I assure you that we took only the necessary precautions to defend the See from external threats at a time of war. Surely the savior of Ishgard can understand our position.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' At any rate, the war is over, and our nation has entered a new age. I am not inclined to sit idly by as House Durendaire is left behind the times.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' And yet, at this most vital of junctures, my son and heir remains lost at sea, and my cousins are either too young or unworldly for the task. And so it falls to me to see to matters myself.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I daresay there is some merit for you as well. After all, whatever negotiations you intend to conduct, they can only be aided by the presence of the head of Ishgard's highest of High Houses.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:'''...I trust you have no objections?
'''Francel:''' Your offer of assistance is most generous, Lord Charlemend. I would not dream of refusing it.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Of course not. We depart at once, yes? I've heard Gridania is most lovely at this time of year.
'''Francel:''' Y-Yes...my intention was always to begin our expedition at our closest neighbor. I have it on good word that an establishment there known as the Carline Canopy would be a suitable─
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' The Carline Canopy it is, then. Do take care not to lag behind, yes?
'''Francel:''' L-Lord Charlemend! Wait!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...So this is Gridania. The tomes fail to mention how disagreeably dank it is.

===Speak with France at the Carline Canopy in Gridania.===
'''Francel:''' ...So this is Gridania! Why, it is even more verdant and lush than I had imagined!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Hmph. A danker, gloomier city I can scarce imagine. I am glad I do not live here.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...And yet, this nation is home to a great number of our own kind. Convincing an Elezen trader or two to come to Ishgard will be done in less than the time it takes for an afternoon tea.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' To start, I will enlist the services of one of the locals. Feel free to come along, Lord Francel ─ mayhap you'll learn something.
'''Francel:''' W-Wait...Lord Charlemend!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Oh dear, [Forename]. This is precisely what I was afraid of!
'''Francel:''' I did some research before our departure. No doubt this is common knowledge to you, but I read that Gridanians are reserved types who do not warm easily to outsiders ─ if perhaps not to the degree of our own people.
'''Francel:''' I fear the count ─ for all his good intentions ─ might sour the local populace on our offer before we can even make it. Come, we must stop him!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Francel:''' Phew! Fortunately, it would seem he has yet to engage the townspeople...
'''Guarded Gridanian:''' Hm? Who are you, and what business have you here?

===Speak with Charlemand de Durendaire.===
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' You there. I am looking to speak with one of your nation's most prominent traders. Tell me where I might find such a person, and be quick about it ─ I'm a busy man.
'''Guarded Gridanian:''' Hm? I'm not in the habit of entertaining outsiders ─ rude, arrogant ones least of all. Bugger off and do it yourself!
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' What!? Why, the sheer ''gall'' of that woman!
'''Francel:''' With all due respect, Lord Charlemend...we are guests in this land. Just as you and I were once wary of outsiders like good [Forename] here, so, too, are these people wary of us.
'''Francel:''' In the world outside the Holy See, our titles or the prestige of our houses will avail us no special privilege. Mayhap it would behoove us to conduct our affairs with a measure of humility...
'''Francel:''' ...But I fear we have already aroused the suspicion of the townspeople. Let us try our luck at another location...mayhap one of the guilds for which this place is so well known?
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' Hmph. A guild, you say? Very well. Let us stop blithering and be off.

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' If you know the way to this guild, then let us be off already, yes? The sooner we can take our leave of this place, the better, I say.

'''Francel:''' If I recall, the Leatherworkers' Guild is in the part of town known as Old Gridania. Would that be correct, [Forename]?

===Wait for passersby outside the Leatherworkers' Guild.===
'''Francel:''' Yes, this place seems rather lively. No doubt we can find someone willing to assist us here.
'''Francel:''' I beg your pardon, my esteemed sir! I am a humble visitor from Ishgard, and I was wondering if I might trouble you with a question or two.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Hm? What's that, now?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Wait... Can it be...Lord Francel? Hah, it ''is'' you! Whatever brings you to the Twelveswood?
'''Francel:''' What? Pray forgive me, I do not believe I have had the pleasure...
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' You wouldn't know me, but I sure know you. During the war, I plied my trade as a sellsword at Camp Dragonhead. You often came to dine at Lord Haurchefant's invitation, yes?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Why...that I did! Lord Haurchefant was a most benevolent man. There were few things he enjoyed more than sharing a good meal in the company of his friends and his men alike.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Aye, and I was one of them. I fondly remember the times I sat at his table, sharing in his meat and mead. In the warmth of his hall and his company, for a moment you could forget the bitter cold outside.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' It's a memory that's stayed with me to this day, long after I returned to Gridania and hung up my blade. Lord Haurchefant was a great man, and I had hoped to return to Ishgard one day to visit him.
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' But then the news of his tragic passing arrived... Even now, I find it hard to believe he's gone.
'''Francel:''' I as well, my friend. Not a day goes by that I do not think of him, and the kindness he showed me in the darkest of days...
'''Francel:''' And though I will forever mourn his passing, I take solace in knowing that his sacrifice was not for naught. For because of those like him ─ and [Forename] here ─ the war is at long last over, and our nation welcomes a new age of enlightenment and restoration.
'''Francel:''' So it is that we come here to fair Gridania, in hopes of establishing trade that will benefit both our nations. Might you perhaps know of any merchants or traders who might be interested in exploring such a possibility?
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' Do I ever! And nothing would please me more than to be able to return the kindness that your countrymen showed me!
'''Mistrustful Merchant:''' It just so happens that I do work for Black Rabbit Traders these days. Perhaps you've heard of them? Maisenta's in charge there, and she's always looking for promising new business partners! Just wait here ─ I'll bring her right over!
'''Francel:''' My good man, it is as if the gods themselves sent you to us! If she does not mind the imposition, I would be honored to meet this Lady Maisenta!

''Optional dialogue''
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' I had known that Lord Haurchefant was undiscerning in the company he kept, but to think that it would be to the benefit of our nation...

===Speak with Francel.===
'''Francel:''' I trust that you've met this Lady Maisenta, [Forename]? Do you suppose she'll be receptive to our offer?
'''Maisenta:''' So you're the guest from Ishgard I've heard so much about. I am Maisenta, of Black Rabbit Traders fame. I hear you have a business proposition for me?
'''Francel:''' It is a pleasure and an honor both to make your acquaintance, Lady Maisenta. I am Francel de Haillenarte, and I have the privilege of overseeing the reconstruction of our fair city, a task which includes building a thriving economy.
'''Francel:''' To that end, I wish to invite the realm's preeminent trading concerns to establish outposts in our new commercial district. If it please you, will you not consider bringing your operations to Ishgard?
'''Maisenta:''' I'd heard that you Ishgardians opened your borders, but quite frankly, I wasn't expecting to receive such an eager and enthusiastic proposition.
'''Maisenta:''' ...And it's an interesting one, I'll grant you that. Still, as much as I'd like to be of aid, I run a business here, not a charity.
'''Maisenta:''' And so I'm forced to ask: why should I expand to Ishgard? What do you offer that other places do not?
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' A well-founded concern, of course... Be assured that our nation offers businesses many opportunities. For example...er...

'''''What will you say?'''''
> You'll have immediate access to the finest Ishgardian wares.
'''Maisenta:''' Now that you mention it, I daresay that Ishgardian furs and fine cuisine could command a high price here in Gridania...
> Ishgardian nobles are notorious spendthrifts...
'''Maisenta:''' Now that you mention it, if the well-heeled aristocrats of the High Houses are willing to open their coinpurses for Gridanian craftsmanship, it could prove quite profitable...
> Picture it now: the Homunculi tour the Holy See... (must have completed [[Sweet Words, Shadowy Dealings]])
'''Maisenta:''' Well, aren't you a shrewd one! Yes, I have no doubt that the mellifluous musical stylings of Gridania's preeminent band of troubadours would serve to lift the spirits of our Ishgardian friends in the aftermath of the war─and loosen the strings of their coinpurses in the process.

'''Maisenta:''' All right...[Forename] here's convinced me. The Black Rabbit will come to Ishgard.
'''Francel:''' Oh, thank you, Lady Maisenta! You do us a kindness that we will not soon forget!
'''Maisenta:''' You can spare me the flowery words. I'm only looking out for my own business interests...as I trust you are as well, no?
'''Maisenta:''' In any event, I'd best be going. We'll have to take a full inventory to determine which of our fine goods to bring north. As they say, the Traders do not smile on those who tarry...
'''Francel:''' Oh, thank you ever so much, my friend! I could never have done this without you!
'''Francel:''' Lady Maisenta's question was only to be expected, yet I found myself at a loss. Your impeccable knowledge of the realm and calmness under pressure have served us well once more.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' ...Hmph. You have succeeded here despite the involvement of Houses Haillenarte and Fortemps, not because of it.
'''Charlemand de Durendaire:''' The citizens of the sultanate are far more discerning, but fear not. I will show you how negotiations among the upper crust are truly done.
[[Category:Quests missing dialogue template]]