This War of Ours

Quest giver: Alphinaud
Location: Matoya's Cave (Zone) (X:6, Y:6)
Quest line: Post-Heavensward
Level: 60

Experience: 5,000
Gil: 1,194
Previous quest: The Word of the Mother
Next quest: Staunch Conviction
Patch: 3.2

Main Scenario Progress: 346 / 853 (40.6%)

Heavensward Progress: 105 / 138 (76.1%)

“

Alphinaud has reached a decision.

— In-game description

Steps

Speak with Aymeric at the Congregation of Our Knights Most Heavenly.

Speak with Lucia in Falcon's Nest.

Journal

Although Alphinaud intends to inform Tataru and Urianger of Minfilia's fate, he asks that you share with no one else what you have learned -- especially F'lhaminn. He then states that you have more than earned a rest, only to suddenly recall that he but recently received a missive from Ser Aymeric. It would seem that the lord commander is planning a ceremony of some sort and would like you to attend. However, he neglected to provide details, and so a visit to the Congregation appears to be in order.

Never one to let an opportunity pass him by, Ser Aymeric wishes to take advantage of the recent shift in public sentiment towards the Dravanians to reestablish relations with their neighbors. To that end, he has begun making formal arrangements for a peace conference in Falcon's Nest, to be attended by Vidofnir... and by you, if possible. He admits that your presence would be more than a symbolic gesture, as he fears that Nidhogg and his followers may attempt to disrupt the proceedings. Moved by his passion, you agree, and prepare to leave for Falcon's Nest and speak with Lucia. In that moment, however, Ser Aymeric calls out, asking that you share a drink once the conference has concluded -- doubtless a gesture of gratitude and camaraderie. Yet, in that moment, a thought unbidden of a woman in white floating before a great crystal gives you pause... and though you accept his invitation, it is with a heavy heart.

Most are blessed with precious few chances to choose their course in life, and Lucia is no different. Dispatched to a foreign nation as a spy, it was her duty to infiltrate Ishgardian society for her masters' ends. In the end, however, she chose a different path -- to pledge herself to another nation's cause, and to join in their war. As she watches the masons of Falcon's Nest put the finishing touches on a relief, she reflects on what that war's resolution could mean for her... and for the country whose faith she has come to share.

Dialogue

Speak with Alphinaud

Alphinaud: I must ask that you not breath a word of this to any of the others at the Rising Stones - especially F'lhaminn. I will brief Tataru on what we have learned, as well as Urianger. He may have insight into what the Word told us. As for you, [Forename]... after all you have done, I would say you have earned a rest. Ah, but speaking of well-earned rewards - I received a missive from Ser Aymeric while you were away. 'Twould seem he is planning a ceremony of some sort, and would like you to attend. He did not divulge the details, preferring instead to explain in person. Mayhap you should pay him a visit?

Speak with Aymeric at the Congregation of Our Knights Most Heavenly

Aymeric: A pleasure to see you again, my friend. I take it you received our invitation? Good, good... You have all people should be present. (Warrior of Light gestures, Aymeric closes and opens his eyes). When the True Brothers of the Faith seized control of the Vault, I feared the worst. Yet in adversity were we blessed with the promise of peace between man and dragon, through Vidofnir's timely rescue of an innocent child. Timely, I say, though "miraculous" or "providential" might better describe the event. The gods themselves could not have devised a more fitting symbol of hope. Needless to say, we could scarce let such an opportunity pass us by, which is why I set about making formal arrangements for a peace conference between our peoples. You and yours have done more to bring us together than any, and it is only right that you attend. But, I confess, that is not the only reason I would be glad to have you there. Given Nidhogg's implacable opposition to the peace, it is possible that he and his followers may attempt to disrupt proceedings, in which event, your presence would be a comfort to all in attendance. Pray understand, I have no wish to invite the wyrm's ire, but if our fractured nation is to heal - if we are to move forward as a people united - then we must do whatever is necessary to bring about lasting change. (Aymeric falls forward). 'Tis nothing, 'tis nothing. <sigh> Lucia cautioned me against giving vent to my passions, lest my wounds reopen. It has not been easy reaching out to our opponents in Ishgard, many of whom sympathized with the actions of the "True Brothers." But in so doing, we have limited the influence of the zealots. The people are ready, my friend. This conference must go ahead! (Warrior of Light nods, Aymeric smiles). I knew you would understand.
Aymeric: The conference will take place on the border of Ishgardian and Dravanian territory, in Falcon's Nest. Lucia is there seeing to the final preparations even as we speak. Pray join her at your earliest convenience - 'twould not do for the guest of honor to arrive late, after all. (Warrior of Light nods). Oh, and one more thing! A drink! We should make time for one. Once the conference is concluded, I mean. By my reckoning, 'tis long overdue. (Warrior of light closes eyes a long time, smile fades from Aymeric. Then Warrior of light nods, and Aymeric smiles again).

Speak with Lucia in Falcon's Nest

Lucia: The lord commander said you would come, [Forename]. (Warrior of Light motions). As you can see, preparations for the conference are proceeding apace. Mark well the curtain above. It conceals a relief that will be unveiled during the conference. The masons labor day and night to see it finished on schedule. Ser Aymeric wanted a symbol which would endure long after this conference is concluded. I think he will be pleased with the result. 'Twas not my war, but I made it mine...and to see it draw closer to a resolution fills me with a strange hope. His faith is infectious, is it not? His certainty that we can be better than we are...Forgive me, I am rambling. You must be tired from your journey. Go, rest. I will not keep you.