- Thancred is wearing a grim expression.
- With a heavy heart, you inform the alchemists of Nidhana's imprisonment within the Tower of Zot. Though saddened, they are resolved to produce as many warding scales as they can, that all those held captive might be saved. Varshahn then arrives bearing messages from the satrap, who invites the Scions to meet with him in Radz–at–Han. You duly accept, and make your way to the gates situated east of the Giantsgall Grounds, on the Perfumed Rise.
- Varshahn guides you through the city to Meghaduta, the satrap's residence, where you come face-to-face with the man himself, Ahewann. Not to be fooled, however, Estinien demands an end to the charade, and so does the true ruler of Radz–at–Han reveal himself: the great wyrm Vrtra, youngest of the first brood. The people of Ahewann's line have long posed as the satrap, while Varshahn, like other attendants before him, is a simulacrum created to serve as a vessel for the wyrm's will. The true history of Thavnair thus brought to light, Vrtra puts forth a proposal: if the Scions will agree to lead an assault on the Tower of Zot, he will provide them with more warding scales to shield them from its corruption. Though the offer is undeniably attractive, help will likely be required if you are to succeed in the mission, and it is decided that you will return to Sharlayan to confer with the rest of your order.
- Though the meeting took an unexpected turn, you now have a clear objective ahead of you. Having given everyone a friendly reminder to attune to the local aetheryte, Thancred sets off back to Sharlayan, and you and the others follow.
- After your eventful sojourn in Thavnair, you find yourself back in Sharlayan for a brief respite, and look to discussing the Tower of Zot with your comrades when the time is right.
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First, we must inform everyone of the situation, Nidhana's colleagues included.
I'll call them together for a gathering...but I think it would be best if you were the one to explain.
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 Cutscene start.
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Can...can you answer me this...
Though Nidhana is trapped in the tower, she's still alive, yes?
Then... |
Then we must make warding scales. As many as we can.
The prototype works perfectly. This, Nidhana proved at peril to herself.
So let us make more scales, that she and all those who were taken might be saved! |
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Aye! As alchemists, this is how we will help win the fight!
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My friends, the satrap has been made aware of the tragedy.
He offers his heartfelt condolences, and reiterates his pledge to provide you with all that you require. To that end, he bade me give you this linkpearl, that he might personally discuss the production of the warding scales with you.
And for our Eorzean visitors, I bear an invitation.
In her report, Mistress Nidhana noted your vital contributions to the talisman's creation.
This fact came to the satrap's attention, and in recognition of your deeds, he wishes to meet you.
In addition to thanking you in person, he would also discuss further avenues of collaboration.
And so, if it is agreeable, will you not accompany me to Radz–at–Han for an audience with His Excellency? |
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We should be honored, of course. Closer cooperation between our lands can only be to the benefit of all.
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Then it is settled. Please come to the gates east of the Giantsgall Grounds, and I will show you into the city.
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| Cutscene end.
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I heard what happened at the tower. Would that I could help bring my colleagues back safely...
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My apologies, but given that the city is currently in a state of alert, I cannot let you proceed past this point.
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When last I visited, the city was brimming with life. I expect the tower has dampened the mood somewhat.
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Be it here or in Eorzea, all share in the desire to deliver the captives. Thus united, I pray that we may join in common cause with the satrap.
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Of the satrap, I only know the common tidbits. That though the position is hereditary, he is not considered a sovereign. And that, despite possessing considerable authority, he wields it sparingly.
Given the esteem in which the locals hold him, however, it's safe to assume he's good at his job. We could do far worse for an ally.
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All present? Then let us proceed.
Owing to the threat of the tower, the city is currently in a state of high alert, and strict restrictions are in place for entry.
Though you have been granted special permission, I ask that you remain close to me at all times. |
| The Unending Journey: # 1: Voiced cutscene start.
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A vast rock squats upon Thavnair, and to its stony surface clings the city of Radz-at-Han.
Ye who enter here are subject to the scrutiny of gods─the gate's most watchful eye.
The orb which beholdeth the truth of all things.
Pass beneath its hot and piercing gaze, bearing down like a second midday sun.
The fragrant haze is a mixture of sweet incense and acrid smoke. The cries of merchants mingled here with lively melodies accented by dancers' feet.
Travelers seduced by vivid sound and colors were once swallowed up by patchwork streets.
But no such scenes to savor now. To what somber present does that divine eye bear witness? |
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Here we are: Meghaduta.
It seems a shame to bring you here directly. Under normal circumstances, it would have been my pleasure to show you the sights.
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And it would have been our pleasure to see them. Alas, it seems our tour of the city will have to wait.
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I am afraid so. Come, we should head inside.
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| The Unending Journey: # 1: Voiced cutscene end.
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| The Unending Journey: # 2: Voiced cutscene start.
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Your Excellency, may I present our honored visitors.
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Ah, splendid, most splendid!
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Allow me to introduce myself. I am Ahewann, satrap of Radz-at-Han.
Our alchemists tell me your assistance was invaluable in the creation of the warding scale.
Such deeds ought to be recognized in person, thus did I have young Varshahn convey you here forthwith. On behalf of my people, may I express to you our sincere gratitude. |
What will you say?
| But Nidhana, she was taken...
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Not everything went to plan.
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A regrettable incident, indeed.
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I assume you speak of Nidhana? A regrettable incident, indeed.
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Her colleagues insist that we honor her wishes, and trust in the talisman─that it will be instrumental in saving Nidhana and the others.
I am eager to hear your opinion on the matter, so let us not stand on ceremony. Come, sit.
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I think not.
This charade has gone on long enough. Show yourself.
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Forgive me, but were you expecting musicians perhaps? There are no performers waiting in the wings at present, but arrangements could be made if you'd prefer─
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Nay, he hath the right of it─the time for artifice is past. Raise the curtain.
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You travel as assistants to the Students of Baldesion, but you are known to me.
Even here have we heard of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn.
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I am Vrtra, and for years uncounted hath this isle served as mine abode.
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Vrtra! Of the first brood, sibling to Hraesvelgr and Nidhogg!
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Aye, mine elder brothers. Of Midgarsormr's spawn, I was last to hatch.
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Well, isn't this a surprise! We were told Radz-at-Han had an alliance with a dragon, not that a great wyrm sat in the satrap's own hall...
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A necessary subterfuge, as the true tale of our nation's history illustrates most effectively.
In the beginning, the rock upon which our city is built was home to Vrtra, and Vrtra alone.
In time, the ancestors of the Matanga came to the island and established a foothold, but never did they dare disturb the wyrm's lair.
Next to arrive were the Au Ra. Adopting the example of their Arkasodara allies, they too treated Vrtra with reverence and respect.
And for many years, an understanding between our forefathers and the great wyrm endured...
...Until marauding Hyurs from the mainland came, threatening to shatter our peace and tranquility.
When it seemed all would be drowned in blood, Vrtra himself came forth and quelled the rising conflict.
A peaceful accord was reached, and oaths sworn in Vrtra's name. Thus began the dragon's governance of the fledgling state which was to grow into Radz-at-Han. |
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But... If Vrtra is still here, then your position as satrap is just...
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...A "charade"? Yes, and one which my family has performed faithfully for generations.
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Many envy the great wyrms their power. Were it known that I ruled here, then the fires of war would burn without end.
I would not be the flame which consumeth my people. Those few who joined me in laying our country's foundations were, perforce, sworn to secrecy.
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'Tis here. Buried within this semblance of flesh.
The body before thee is but a simulacrum, constructed by the finest artisans of Radz-at-Han. With mine eye nestled within, it doth serve as an inconspicuous vessel for my will.
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Ah. That would explain why I felt the presence of a dragon upon our first meeting.
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I am woven with wards fashioned to deceive such arcane senses.
Though 'twas short-lived, it seemeth thy fusion with my brother hath left thee much altered, Estinien Wyrmblood.
From the very first, we sensed the nature of one another. Yet did neither one of us bare his fangs.
That is all I need to know of thee for now. |
With my secret thus revealed, I have for you a proposal. Not as a wyrm of the first brood, but as the ruler of Radz-at-Han.
With all haste must we take in hand the finished talismans and breach this foul spire. Thence, should it lay within our power, dispel its wicked influence.
Yet even with the assurance of the warding scales, the narrow confines of the tower doth limit the size of our force. |
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And thus denied strength in numbers, thou must choose thy soldiers with care.
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Just so. Yet though our Radiant Host is formidable, I see a surer path before me.
Thou and thy comrades have contended with a multitude of primal beings. Most recently thou didst cast down false gods in Paglth'an and Carteneau, I am told.
'Tis upon that strength I would call. The Scions have proven themselves most capable, and I ask that you serve as the tip of our spear.
Talismans would, of course, be provided for each of thy companions.
And should you agree to this undertaking, more will be provided to make us of as you see fit. |
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There's no denying it's a dangerous proposition, but the rewards may far outweigh the risk. Just think of what we might accomplish if we could equip all our allies with warding scales.
I worry, however, that even the four of us may be too few for what you have in mind. Might we regroup with our friends first to discuss the matter?
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'Tis no trifling task that I have laid before you. Go, steel your hearts and hone your plans─such time as you require shall we spend in crafting your protective charms.
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It seems a quick trip back to Sharlayan is in order...
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Wilt thou not lend thine aid?
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Whether your request be made as a great wyrm or the ruler of Radz-at-Han, I see no reason to refuse. Nor will I.
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| The Unending Journey: # 2: Voiced cutscene end.
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If our course of action is decided, let's not tarry.
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That we should encounter one of the first brood in such a circumstance...
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That meeting took a rather unexpected turn, but we now have a clear objective ahead of us.
Let us rejoin our comrades in Sharlayan, and muster a suitable crew for our foray into the Tower of Zot.
Oh, and if you haven't already done so, be sure to attune to the aetheryte here before departing. Unless of course you enjoy violent nausea... |
Vrtra and his alchemists have prepared us for our foray into the tower. What we may accomplish within its twisted halls remaineth to be seen.
That Arkasodara languish in Telophoroi chains doth forewarn us of the nature of our foe—'tis the gods of Thavnair who will be summoned to thwart us.
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The conflict between Nidhogg and I is in the past, and though they were brothers, it has no bearing on my view of Vrtra.
Above all else, he is a leader of men, not an enemy. He would hardly dedicate his life to this endeavor if he bore our kind any ill will.
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Just as I was getting used to balmy Thavnair, we're back in chilly Sharlayan... Take care not to catch your death, eh? We need you for the battles to come.
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| If 'Estate Visitor' quest is incomplete.
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If 'Estate Visitor' quest is complete.
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Now then, your investigation here remains, but when that's over, we can take stock of all of the developments and discoveries.
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Now then, everyone appears to be here, so let us take stock of all the developments and discoveries.
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I returned by way of Kytte's experimental aetheryte, yet I must say, it was far less taxing than our first attempt. And apparently, we need only ask if we wish to use it again.
Now, I'm not terribly eager to repeat the experience... But if you're willing to test your aetherial fortitude for the sake of technological advancement, then who am I to stop you?
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Acquisition
Closest Aetheryte: The Great Work (Landmark)
Requirements
Rewards
Description
Objectives
Unlocks Quests
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