Returning to the land of Eorzea, threats loom around every corner – some more obvious than others. Politics can prove as deadly as any Primal monstrosity!

Ever since the victory over Gaius and the Ultima Weapon, patrons and benefactors from all over Eorzea desire to purchase the Scions services for themselves. One particular member of the Ul’dahn Syndicate has been more… insistent. Minfilia refuses, believing complete political neutrality to be the best course of action for the future of Eorzea. When Alphinaud promotes the idea of moving the Scions HQ to Mor Dhona (which is neutral territory), Minfilia is at first appalled, stating that the Waking Sands is their home. Alphinaud invokes his grandfather’s name, saying they are as good as family—to which she looks at a framed staff on the wall, and dismisses him immediately. She reminds him of his own familial affairs that he must attend to (I am assuming she is referring to Alisaie.) Alphinaud, in his unbearably pompous manner, states that he obviously left that affair to others – he would never let personal issues prevent what needs to be done for the Scions’ cause… and struts out. He’s not wrong, but he certainly doesn’t have to be such a prick.

https://twitter.com/ffxiv_memes/status/792426712260804608

At Alphinaud’s behest, you find F’lhaminn in Wineport, an elder Miqo’te woman who requires your help in making a unique perfume. After going through a rigorous process to obtain the ingredients, the three of you return to the Waking Sands. Minfilia is elated to see F’lhammin. This was her adoptive mother who raised her, and was thought to be dead. F’lhaminn explains that she was hunted by the Garleans, and didn’t want to lead them to Minfilia. At their happy reunion, she urges Minfilia to rebuild the Scions location in Mor Dhona, where they can work in together this time. Reconsidering the offer, Minfilia agrees – thus initiating construction efforts for your new home, The Rising Stones. Futhermore, she decides to announce to all of Eorzea the existence of their order and that henceforth it shall remain solely independent and neutral.

Prior to departure, F’lhaminn has you undertake the task of repairing an earring for her, which holds enormous sentimental value. Its creator was murdered with a magic blade, which prevented the body from decaying, and she prays that his soul has found peace in the afterlife.

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=239050346

As preparations are being made, you are beseeched by Moogle Kuplo Kopp and The Elder Seedseer of Gridania to eliminate the threat of Good King Moggle Mog XII. When returning to wrap things up at the Waking Sands and finally proceed to The Rising Stones in Mor Dhona, Minfilia informs you that Urianger will be remaining behind. As you go to speak with him, Minfilia’s shriek fills the building. By use of the Echo, you realize that she just had an encounter with a white-robed Ascian, who identifies himself as an emissary. He assures Minfilia that he means no harm towards her nor the Scions. He confirms that Lahabrea still exists, though without form, since they cannot be killed… only expelled. Tataru intrudes on their conversation, but is unable to see the Ascian present. The Ascian goes on to assure Minfilia that the Echo is what allows her to perceive him, and with time, she may be able to see the Ascians for what they truly are – though she has current limitations of the gift. He states that if she knew the truth, they would be allies, of one mind. As he leaves, Minfilia rushes forward to stop him, but he turns and knocks her out with magic force. He marvels over Hydaelyn’s protection of her children from his master, and wonders if that was how Minfilia survived “the Ardor.”

Upon waking, Minfilia sets Urianger to the task of researching past records for a white-robed Ascian, and beseeches you to hurry after the visitor, certain that he is still close. When pursuing the emissary, you fight your way through one voidsent ordeal after another until finally catching up with the Ascian in White, who identifies himself as Elidibus and claims to serve the one true god. He remarks on how Hydaelyn’s power is growing weaker, and eventually when it fails, the world will be right again. He assures that the two of you will meet again, and promptly vanishes.

https://toldosbuendia.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/4af7c0eca418c704c23f52b48115dda1.png#.XbBJnRlJngs.link

Minfilia reveals that her father was a Garlean spy who stole valuable Imperial research regarding the Primals. She wants this journal to be entrusted to Urianger, but the Scions are met with foreboding news once you reach The Rising Stones. Urianger has lost contact with their allies and fellow researchers, the Students of Baldesion.

A large amount of crystals go missing in Ul’dah, but the culprits cannot be found. Between the Scions’ communications, Urianger is interrupted with a ship arriving from a distant and foreign land called Doma. A mysterious veiled figure steps aboard the docks next to The Waking Sands. With Alphinaud, you return to Ul’dah and find the leader of the Doman ship, Lady Yugiri. She would speak with the Sultana to plea for Asylum Refugee status in their land. Her people were in a conquered province of the Garlean Empire, but during the 5-year war of royal succession to the throne, they attempted to rebel and gain their freedom… only to be destroyed. Alphinaud is able to arrange a hearing before the Sultana and the Syndicate… but Lady Yugiri’s request and offer to trade in services is turned down by the protests of Lord Lolorito who swings the vote. Only Nanamo, Raubahn, and Teledji were in favor of granting Yugiri’s request.

In realization of mutual benefit, the decision is made to lead the Domans to Revenant Toll in Mor Dhona. There, they will be able to reside and use their services to rebuild the budding location into a bustling town of commerce.

https://cavendishquests.wordpress.com/2018/07/15/enter-the-domans/

Y’shtola discovers more about the crystal theft, leading not to the Amalj’aa as first expected, but across the sea to the Sahagin lair, where they mean to summon their Primal, Leviathan. What’s more, a Sahagin priest remarks on gaining “the gift of knowledge and eternity” as well as equal standing with the emissary. Admiral Merlwyb requests the Scions’ intervention. Minfilia suspects that Elidibus may be able to grant the Echo to others, and goes on a mission to learn more about the nature of the Echo, with Thancred escorting her as a bodyguard.

Y’shtola leads you through Limsa Lominsa to confront the Primal threat, with Lady Yugiri, Thancred, Minfilia, and even the Admiral coming to your aid. Despite your best efforts to prevent the ceremony, the Sahagin priest displays powers reminiscent of the Echo, death not keeping him from transferring his consciousness to other bodies. The mighty Leviathan is summoned, swallowing the Priest’s soul, and dives further out to sea. Merlwyb realizes that the Primal means to unleash a tidal wave to annihilate the shores of their existence! The only way to stop the sea serpent is to face it aboard a vessel amid the crashing waves! Corrupted Crystals mounted to the ship will lessen its power over the waters around you, just as Cid flew through the tornado winds to reach Garuda.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkpJogoKoz8

(I must admit… Leviathan is my 2nd favorite Primal, directly following Garuda – and I wish Summoners had a miniature version of him! At the very least, I make do by decking out my chocobo in Leviathan’s barding! Not to mention that electric guitar is excellent to rock your heart out!) Admiral Merlwyb sings your praises upon success. Yugiri offers to teach the inhabitants of Limsa the fighting style she is proficient in (Ninja), and in return Merlwyb pledges to send provisions to Mor Dhona.

Minfilia shares her thoughts on the Sahagin Priest and the nature of the Echo. She muses over the possibility of being able to shed one’s flesh and don another body at will – to know eternity. However, since Leviathan vanquished the Priest’s soul, that would mean the Ascians are not invulnerable either, and can be vanquished! Urianger returns with grim news… the home of their allies, the Students of Baldesion, has been destroyed.

Back in the royal halls of Ul’dah, a servant questions Teledji’s purpose behind his orders. Teledji has a single word response: revolution.

https://high-stakes-gambler.tumblr.com/post/182703075896/character-trope-teledji-adeledji

More refugees from Ul’dah (Ala Mighans and survivors of the Calamity) seek Asylum in Mor Dhona with the Domans. There’s not enough resources to go around, and while Minfilia is struggling to deal with the situation, news of a riot in Ul’dah arrives – a spark of rebellion from the refugees against the citizens. Minfilia immediately sends you to check on Alphinaud who was present in the midst of the attack. Alphinaud is fine, but fears for the future of Ul’dah.

You’re to investigate the uprising, and follow the clues to see who was behind it. From refugee to merchant, you find someone finally willing to talk (after a bit of coercion). Before your informant can spill the truth, he is promptly shot by an arrow from afar and dies at your feet. General Raubahn calls a meeting with you, Alphinaud, and the Sultana to discuss the results of the investigation. They learned that Teledji was the one who orchestrated the uprising, by bribing a guard to shoot unarmed protesters. Despite Teledji’s verbal support for the incoming refugees, his true intentions focus on a document that would give him authority over a highly disputed region of Allagan ruins, Carteneau… which he would grant to the refugees in return for profit. Not only that, but there is an Allagan weapon on peer level to Ultima! This one is Omega, and was created to fell the legendary summoned monstrosity: Bahamut. Such a tool could bring all of Eorzea to subjugation on their knees before the wielder of such power… which is why Teledji would be willing to risk his place on the Syndicate, and potentially commit treason against the Sultana.

https://twitter.com/hashtag/nanamo

Meanwhile, back in Gridania the “touched” Sylphs have summoned Ramuh. The Elder Seedseer believes that this Primal can be reasoned with, especially since you have negotiated peace with the Sylphs before. She asks that you intervene on behalf of Gridania, as the Echo will protect you from falling prey as a thrall.

Now Ramuh… Ramuh has a beard that would put Gandalf and Professor Dumbledore to shame—combined! I’m amazed that the amount of white fuzz coming out of his face doesn’t snap his neck by the sheer weight alone! I’m just saying, this guy’s cervical vertebrae must be fused from either mythril or adamantium! He is revered as one of the wisest Primals, though I find that incredibly difficult to believe when I know the forest has resources to offer a decent shave every once in a millennium. Therefore, I can’t take his speech seriously – especially when he makes no effort to differentiate the actions of Garlean invaders and Gridanians who wish to live in peace. Ramuh decides to consider your proposal after you show him the crystal that the Sylph leader Frixio gave you for rescuing him (as seen in A Realm Reborn – Pt 1), but only if you survive a trial by combat!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDG1rIz1S7k

Urianger arrives on scene and asks to witness this challenge. After suffering a staggering defeat, Ramuh withdraws into soul-form, speaking to you through his consciousness alone. He implores you to continue as the Warrior of Light to banish the darkness from men’s hearts. Urianger approaches, believing what he saw in the battle may prove useful in defeating the Ascians!

Back at the Rising Stones, Urianger reveals his findings to the Scions. The Ascians cannot be destroyed by physical force. There are 3 types of beings:

1) Mortals who die, and their spirits go to the aetherial-realm;

2) Primals who can materialize in the physical world by consuming aether via crystals – when vanquished they resume their spirit form and return to the aetherial-realm;

3) and Ascians who can only exist in the physical realm by taking over a physical host. They would have no reason to travel to the aetherial realm, since they have not actually experienced death. Without a host, they would travel only so far as the aetherial sea, a plane of existence in-between the mortal and aetherial realms. Lahabrea was able to take over Thancred by using a Crystal of Darkness, which acts as a gateway to this in-between realm. Because the Sahagin didn’t have a Crystal of Darkness, he could not flee the mortal realm and was consumed in his aetherial-state by a Primal. Therefore, if the bodiless soul of an Ascian could be trapped without a suitable host nearby, and denied the ability to transport away or resurrect, then it could be defeated. Urianger refers to this method as an aetherial prison. Neither Minfilia nor Urianger know how to formulate this prison, but they believe it is possible to accomplish.

http://coldrungaming.blogspot.com/2017/09/ffxiv-part-23-we-are-crystal-braves.html

Elidibus speaks to his fellow Ascians on this alternate plane, speaking of how Hydaelyn’s strength grows dim. The Ardor is strengthening their master, and by nurturing the “gifted” they will forge the “final key.” Lahabrea arrives, claiming that the one true god will rise again.

Meanwhile, you and Alphinaud work to create a united Grand Company among the 3 city-states, and are able to recruit a few soldiers. After departing from Ul’dah, Nanamo and Raubahn discuss the proposition. Nanamo worries that this “unified” private army could be bought at the hands of the Syndicate, but Raubahn vouches for his trust in you and the Scions. Nanamo mentions that while intentions may be good at first, people can change, and wonders what can be done about Teledji. Raubahn informs her that there is no evidence as of yet to convict him for his treason. If they arrested him without any grounds, then he would only gain more power. Nanamo weeps at the injustice, and Raubahn comforts her, imploring her to remain patient.

https://imgur.com/gallery/RejJnFQ

Lord Haurchefant from Coerthas seeks to support the rebuilding Mor Dhona (to deter the spread of the Garlean Empire), but is dealing with heretical bandits who are led by a radical known as Iceheart. He asks that you investigate the spread of this cult. After tracking down and dealing with the bandits, you catch a glimpse of a woman in the distance, robed in blue with waist-long silvery hair. When returning to Haurchefant, he believes the matter should be brought before the Temple Knights, and seeks their aid.

Back in Mor Dhona, Alphinaud conducts a ceremony to make official the new Grand Company for a united Eorzea – the Crystal Braves! Minfilia receives news that Krile (of the Students of Baldesion) is alive, though the island has been vanquished. The aetheric disturbance of the area is similar to the power of Ultima! What’s more, neither you nor Minfilia have received any visions or communication from the Mothercrystal Hydaelyn since the battle with the Garleans.

In Ishgard, the Holy See sits on a gilded throne and raises his staff before an army of what look to be the Temple Knights. On each side of the High-Priest looking figure stands an Ascian… one robed in black and the other in white.

http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20140625162336/finalfantasy/images/d/d7/IshgardKing.png

You are assigned to work with Captain Ilberd (2nd in command of the Crystal Braves) with regards to a Garlean spy who has infiltrated the Ul’dah military forces. The spy works for someone who goes by the alias: Ivy. When meeting with Raubahn, you discover that he and Ilberd are old friends from Ala Mhigo. Raubahn believes Ivy and this hidden network of spies may be of greater danger than they previously thought, and will continue ongoing investigation.

The Ishgardian ambassador and commander of the Temple Knights, Ser Aymeric, meets with you and Alphinaud at Camp Dragonhead. To Alphinaud’s disappointment, the Holy See has no intention for Ishgard to join the Eorzean Alliance. However, they will aid in safe passage of the supplies to Mor Dhona if in return the Scions will aid them regarding the prophecy of a fallen dragon rising once more – Midgardsormr. Alphinaud agrees. A messenger interrupts that Iceheart’s bandits have already waylaid their caravans once more!

The bandits were spotted carrying the crates towards Snowcloak for the purpose of summoning Shiva, so Alphinaud and Ser Aymeric join forces to track down Iceheart! Bandits ambush Alphinaud, and Yda swoops in to fend them off. Papalymo has discovered a nearby tunnel that leads into Iceheart’s lair. In the depths of this dungeon, you best Fenrir (the glacial wolf) and encounter Iceheart, formerly known as Ysayle. She challenges your ideals, believing that she will bring an end to the war between dragon and men, ceasing the never-ending cycle of sorrow and suffering. She disappears via the great aetheryte resting in the cave.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0WBoBsXXU0

When pursuing the heretics’ retreat, Minfilia informs you that the accounts of Shiva mention that she “lay” with a dragon… a grave sin in Ishgardian faith. When Alphinaud questions Aymeric about the history of their land, Aymeric confirms that the details are lacking in their scriptures. A scout brings news that Iceheart was located at an unknown aetheryte in the west, though she must have damaged that destination aetheryte to prevent your party from following.

A Crystal Brave discovers a parchment on one of the heretics, displaying their retreat locale near the Observatorium. Captain Ilberd and Yugiri halt their escape, singling out a merchant who was suspect in the investigation with Ivy. Following interrogation, Ilberd returns with intel that the merchant bought secrets from one of the Flame soldiers at Revenant’s Toll, though their connected interests are still unclear.

Meanwhile, a gathering between leaders is hosted in Gridania. Recent news of the Garlean Empire is that the crown has been officially passed to Varis zos Galvus. This could bring about another war with Garlemald if they chose to march on Eorzean soil. Unity with Ishgard is more important than ever! Also, Ilberd believes he’s discovered Ivy’s identity – Eline Roaille, who is General Raubahn’s second in command! She is a foreigner from Ishgard, whom normally the Monetarists would have rejected from a high position… though she may have some unspoken influence via bribery or threat. You corner her with Ilberd and Yugiri in the forests of Gridania, meeting with an imperial contact! Ilberd arrests her, but she claims she has nothing to hide, and accepts the escort quietly.

https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/moenbryda

Minfilia welcomes a familiar contact to the Rising Stones – Moenbryda, a Roegadyn scholar of aetheryte magic, who is studying the effects of auracite. We’re privy to a scene where she openly flirts and hints at suggestive innuendo with Urianger who is stammering and blushing in outright denial. Moenbryda believes that auracite could establish a connection with the aetheryte that Iceheart escaped to… though it has a high probability of resulting in your death. Minfilia isn’t too concerned by that fact, and doesn’t hesitate in volunteering you for the mission… she also has no problem remaining behind in the safety of the cave.

Upon successful teleportation to Iceheart’s hide-out, you find her in the process of summoning Shiva, providing her own body as a vessel for the fallen spirit! Iceheart’s ceremony is the most chilling yet, and down comes one of the most exquisite forms of Shiva I’ve ever seen in all her icy glory! After felling the celestial Primal, Iceheart returns to her normal form and curses you for your ignorance. She marvels that neither you nor those who sent you question the history or scriptures that have been passed down… She claims that no sacrifice is too great if it will end violence permanently, and implores you to seek “The Keeper of the Lake.” Her final message resounds with Hydaelyn’s words… “Hear… Feel… Think…” before she vanishes once more. An Ascian emerges in the distance, noting the results of the battle, and mentions that Lahabrea will be pleased.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXEMnL2QFl4

Lord Harchefaunt is relieved with your safe return. Aymeric is more open to discussing the threat of the Garlean Empire, but he must act with subtlety so as not to disobey the Holy See’s command – to only act in self-defense. But with the Scions’ recent performance with Shiva, this may be the excuse he needs to move forward. Sir Aymeric offers his second-in-command, Lucia to help the Scions on his behalf. He provides further intel which will dismantle Eline Roaille’s network of spies in Eorzea.

At the Rising Stones, you regale the tale for Minfilia of Iceheart/Shiva. Questions are raised of Iceheart’s body and consciousness merging with the soul of a Primal. Is this another Ascian trick? Minfilia muses over Iceheart’s final words… and thinks that she is likely blessed with the MotherCrystal’s “Echo.” She wonders if Iceheart has been given a vision of knowledge regarding the origins of Ishgardian and Draconic history. Midgardsormr, the king of dragons and “Keeper of the Lake”, is discussed as well as his potential rebirth – what knowledge would he have in store if he were raised once more to life?

https://imgur.com/gallery/CUPnV/comment/313625997

Teledji is corresponding with an unknown contact in secret – stating that they must keep Raubahn under constant watch. Teledji instructs one of his servants to sever a trade route belonging to Lord Lolorito, in order to keep him distracted. Teledji then muses over the Sultana…

Moenbryda believes auracite can be used to trap an Ascian soul, but only for a limited period of time. To destroy the soul, there would need to be another massive burst of aether to eradicate it before it could flee to the in-between plane. This was how Lahabrea was able to retreat via dark crystal after you defeated him with Hydaelyn’s “Sword of Light” – similar to a concentrated burst of aether. What’s more, the island where the Students of Baldesion was not the only thing to disappear – other scholars at various locations also mysteriously vanished. They were all studying dimensional compression or the “Rejoining” as referred to by ancient texts. Minfilia is concerned of Ascian involvement, especially regarding their “one true god.”

Ilberd and Alphinaud report to Raubahn about Eline’s betrayal with the Empire. Solus zos Galvus’ first priority was to eliminate Primals – even if it meant the destruction of Eorzea. According to Ilberd, she had been working as a triple agent between Gaius van Baelsar “The Wolf”, the new Emporer just crowned, and the Monetarists who sought to profit from the war. Raubahn swears his fury upon the Monetarists for their corruption to betray their own people! The Sultana convenes a private meeting with the leaders of Gridania and Limsa Lominsa, grieving over the state of political affairs. With Teledji rising in power, being the source for a majority of unrest, she could have grounds to dissolve the Syndicate – though that would spark further outrage and more violence among Ul’dahn citizens. The solution, in Nanamo’s eyes, is for her to step down as Sultana, and give Ul’dah back to the people in the form of a Republic – taking away control from both Royalists and Monetarists.

https://twitter.com/daddy_txt

Ser Aymeric sends his envoy to meet with you, since the Astrologians are warning of the rise of Midgardsormr… The Ishgardians are preparing for battle against the dragons! Traversing to the crash site where the King of Dragons fell, taking the Garlean warship with him, you discover that indeed… he has awakened from his long slumber! After putting up a fight, Midgardsormr allows you to make your case before him. He refuses to call the dragons off their attack, and believes the sons of men should answer for their deeds – condemning them to their fate! But when he sees Hydaelyn’s light shielding you, he calls her blessing unto himself – stripping it from your being! In doing so, he has made a covenant between the two of you, granting a minion to accompany you in his stead. Though he warns that the dragonsong calls for a new beginning… and an end. Alphinaud believes a war is coming, and goes to warn Ser Aymeric. Though he keeps some of the details of your interaction with Midgardsormr secret… wouldn’t want you to be executed for a heretic as well!

Moenbryda believes she has discovered how to summon enough aether to destroy an Ascian while entrapped in auracite! The Scions must test a siphoning object she constructed near massive corrupted crystals of the land… at a safe distance of course. When conducting the experiment in Northern Thanalan, Moenbryda muses over her past with Urianger – and the siphon is a success! An Ascian named Nabriales intrudes, and notes that Hydaelyn’s blessing is no longer upon you – thus, you are no longer a threat to him! He leaves to claim Louisoix’s staff, planning to “rise to Lord Zodiark’s right hand!” Rushing back to the Rising Stones, the Ascian has cornered Minfilia, and speaks of “The Rejoining.” He’s the one responsible for the disappearance of the Isle, and claims that the staff is a “key!”

http://coldrungaming.blogspot.com/2017/09/ffxiv-part-23-we-are-crystal-braves.html

Minfilia refuses to relinquish it, so Nabriales simply takes both her and the staff to the other realm – though not before inflicting a grave wound on Moenbryda! Following them through the rift, you must defeat Nabriales who is holding Minfilia captive! Upon his demise, the three of you return to the Rising Stones, where Moenbryda is waiting. Nabriales attempts to retreat back to the in-between realm, and Moenbryda provides the auracite to keep him detained! Using Louisoix’s staff, you try to gather enough aether to summon forth another Blade of Light – but Hydaelyn’s blessing is gone from your being! Moenbryda realizes that there’s not enough aether to destroy Niabrales… Moving into the path of the aetheric beam, she gives the last of her life force to annihilate the Ascian once and for all!

When the other Scions arrive, they learn the fate of their Roegadyn scholar… Urianger grieves, but is comforted when you reveal that in her final words, she understood Louisoix’s legacy of sacrifice. She has gone to be at peace with her mentor. Urianger returns alone to the Waking Sands. Minfilia calls you and the Scions to the Mark of Thaliak (The Scholar) near Mor Dhona to offer respects to Moenbryda’s spirit. Midgardsormr observes invisible to all but you, stating that she traded life for death… a fair bargain, and claims that other bargains like this are still to come. You and Yda bring a moon daisy to Moenbryda’s grave. Alas… there’s no more time to grieve – the dragons are coming!

http://coldrungaming.blogspot.com/2018/01/ffxiv-part-32-aetheric-moenbryda.html

Lucia, Ser Aymeric’s envoy, is calling all forces from Eorzea to face the threat against Ishgard. You learn that the knights have been attacked by Iceheart’s force of heretics! She’s disabled the citadel’s arcane ward defenses, allowing for a draconic invasion! Of all times, Ser Aymeric calls you to meet him in Camp Dragonhead! He promptly introduces you to Estinien, the Azure Dragoon. Both Nidhogg and Lady Iceheart aim to re-acquire the dragon’s Eye, which would restore the dread wyrm to his full might! Midgardsormr silently warns you of Nidhogg’s rage against men. Because Estinien has long-guarded the Eye, he retains the essence of the dread wyrm’s strength, and can hear Nidhogg’s voice. Alphinaud questions whether the Eorzean Alliance should help Ishgard, since Ishgard abandoned them when they called for help against the Empire. Ser Aymeric understands this sentiment, but asks Alphinaud to consider the cost of Ishgard’s fall… which would allow the Empire open access to a settlement near Mor Dhona. Alphinaud agrees to rally the Eorzean troops!

The Scions rush to aid Ishgard, and defend the Steps of Faith – the bridge leading up to the city! When you arrive, a great dragon and many smaller drakes are wreaking havoc! Nidhogg himself is absent – as is Iceheart. You succeed in defending the Gates, and the dragons retreat! Alphinaud celebrates the heightened potential of an Eorzea-Ishgard alliance, and Estinien watches from the ramparts… vowing to slake his lance’s thirst on Nidhogg’s blood!

https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/163185186483267911/?nic=1a

At the Rising Stones, Minfilia grieves for the loss of comrades. She states that all of the Scions are expected to be at the celebration in Ul’dah, and it wouldn’t do to appear without a united front. As you are leaving, Riol – a Crystal Brave – informs you that Teledji bribed members in their units, which likely resulted in some unwarranted deaths on the battlefield.

Arriving at the Ul’dahn Palace, Nanamo summons you to her private chambers. At the feast below, Sir Aymeric pronounces his thanks on behalf of Ishgard and desire to reunite with Eorzea – granted if he can obtain permission from the Archbishop Holy See. Alphinaud is drawn away from the party by Ilberd’s colleague. When you meet with Nanamo, she reveals her intentions to dissolve the monarchy in favor of a republic. She asks you to support Raubahn during this time, and is extremely grateful when you accept. Taking a sip from her goblet, her eyes widen and she suddenly starts grasping desperately at her throat! Without a word, she drops to the ground unmoving… no better time for Teledji to come strolling in, blaming you for poison in the wine! His Flame soldiers arrest you for the death of the Sultana!

https://gamerescape.com/2015/05/12/the-lore-train-a-realm-reborn-part-2/

Alphinaud has fallen right into a trap as well – a sword to his throat by Ilberd’s colleague, a fellow Crystal Brave! Teledji arrives at the feast with Ishgardian warriors, claiming that Ser Aymeric is needed back in his homeland for a surprise draconic ambush! He leaves, though not without suspicion. Thancred is cornered alone on a balcony by several warriors, who say he is under arrest for his involvement as a traitor with the Garlean Empire! Thancred faces them all as one! Back in the feast room, Raubahn confronts Teledji for calling out the Ishgardian state guests without the Sulatana’s presence! Teledji then accuses Raubahn for gorging himself while the Sultana died by an assassin’s hand– scorning his incompetence as General to protect Ul’dah. Teledji reveals the assassin to be none other than you – the Warrior of Light! Ilberd brings you as a prisoner into the room, claiming that all of the Scions will stand for trial and interrogation!

Raubahn demands to see the Sultana, though Ilberd intervenes alongside Nanamo’s handmaiden – both of whom confirm Nanamo’s death. Overcome with grief, Raubahn falls to his knees, screaming in rage! Teledji states that since the monarchy is too weak to protect the nation, clearly the monetarists (like himself) must take the responsibility. To drive the knife deeper, Teledji says he’ll allow Raubahn the task of planning the Sultana’s funeral, glad to be rid of her burden at last! Raubahn rises, recognizing Teledji as the true culprit! Teledji mocks Nanamo further, and Raubahn—the Bull of Ala Mhigo—renders him asunder!

https://gamerescape.com/2016/11/01/the-lore-train-identifying-the-dead-part-2/

Lord Lolorito demands if Raubahn has lost his mind, and accuses him of being in league with the Scions all along! The Bull charges at him next, only for Ilberd to intervene and cut off Raubahn’s arm! Merlwyb and Kan-e-Senna are escorted away immediately by their people. Lolorito demands the Scions and Raubahn be arrested for treason, while Ilberd scoffs at his old friend’s weakness. Ilberd quietly reveals to Raubahn that he murdered the Sultana! The Bull becomes rage and fury incarnate, fighting with a single arm to the death against one who was once a brother to him! Raubahn urges you and the Scions to escape the fray and discover what is truly going on behind this mad plot!

https://fr.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/2469857/blog/2705905/

Thancred rendezvous with you and the Scions as you’re fleeing the Royal Promenade. He recalls one of the Sultansworn’s tips – Nanamo’s fireplace in her bedchambers conceals an escape tunnel which safely leads out of the city. As soldiers are charging towards you all, Yda and Papalymo remain behind to slow them down! When Minfilia protests, Papalymo uses thaumaturgy to bring down an iron gate—cutting off any further arguments! They face the warriors alone, some of which are Crystal Braves! For each one they cut down, more arrive, and when all hope seems lost… Papalymo supercharges Yda with the power of a Levinlight storm, each strike a thunderclap of might!

http://coldrungaming.blogspot.com/2018/01/ffxiv-part-35-coup.html

Guards continue to pursue you within the tunnels! Y’shtola and Thancred remain behind to assist your and Minfilia’s retreat! Minfilia resists once more, tearing up, and it takes Y’shtola’s vehement command to turn her steps! As Thancred puts up an impressive fight against the oncoming hoard, he falls as an arrow pierces his leg, taking the light of the lantern with him to engulf the battle in darkness. Y’shtola finishes preparing her spell, and they both whisper their last lament to the ones they love… as she collapses the ceiling above to crush them all!

https://www.flickr.com/photos/caydoria/38356910085/

Minfilia stops when she hears Hydaelyn’s voice. She is determined to remain behind but urges that you continue on ahead! Despite your refusal, she insists that you are the hope of the realm, the one who must go on to save Eorzea! She says it’s the only way, before disappearing back into the tunnel…

Racing through the night in the deserts of Thanalan, you encounter Alphinaud and a young male lalafell who wears a Bull’s helm. A chocobo wagon emerges, bearing the same merchant who accompanied you in your first arrival to Eorzea many moons ago. The Ul’dahn forces are at your heels, so the three of you hop aboard. Once at a safe distance, the merchant reveals that Alisaie (Alphinaud’s twin sister) was responsible for sending him to come to their aid. The lalafell introduces himself as Pipin Tarupin – he was the one who freed Alphinaud from imprisonment. He knew immediately that the monetarists were to blame for the assassination! The merchant recognizes Pipin’s name as the adopted son of Raubahn! Pipin acknowledges his father’s fall, and plans to rescue him from the politician’s clutches!

https://gamerescape.com/2015/05/12/the-lore-train-a-realm-reborn-part-2/

The wagon brings you to Cid, who bears you away on his airship! Pipin salutes you from the ground, readying himself to return to the corrupted massacre behind… Cid drops you both off in the snowy mountains of Ishgard, and Alphinaud believes that Lord Haurchefant will be the best ally to turn to. Due to more dragons attacking Ishgard, your petition for asylum cannot yet be granted until the threat is diminished. Though Haurchefant welcomes you to take shelter in his home at Camp Dragonhead, granting you to establish it as the “Falling Snows.” He also informs you that others have been awaiting your arrival – and you are reunited with Tataru and Yugiri! The Doman foreigner is finally unveiled, a dragonborn Au’ra, who was responsible for rescuing Tataru from the traitor Crystal Braves! Alphinaud is deeply humbled by his failure as a leader and friend. With Tataru and Lord Haurchefant’s words of encouragement, Alphinaud decides not to give up hope!

Lightning flashes through the windows of Ul’dahn Palace… Nanamo’s handmaiden tells Lord Lolorito that all has gone according to his plan.

Raubahn smolders in the cold stone dungeons…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GTSuBUZl2c

The Ascians meet in their in-between realm, where the white-robed Elidibus informs Lahabrea that Nabriales has died. Lahabrea sneers that the “Ardor” was not for Nabriales to command… though they are concerned for the cessation of immortality. The two Ascians agree to focus their attention North, and Lahabrea leaves. A shadowy figure arrives, coming on behalf of the white-robed Ascian’s summons… and it is none other than Urianger! Elidibus calls him “Archon” and means to discuss the fate of this star upon which Eorzeans live!

https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/8455265/blog/2147838?order=2

You stand at the gates of Ishgard, bereft and vulnerable without wards. Midgardsormr warns you of delusion, despair, and death which waits for you beyond those walls.

“To preserve the dawn’s light, the heroes journeyed North… their hearts filled with hope and eyes fixed Heavesward!” Thus ends the tale of the Seventh Astral Era! Stay tuned for more to come in “FFXIV: Heavensward (Part 3)” which is part of the saga leading up to the incredible Shadowbringers expansion! As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section – so don’t be shy!

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