2025-08-12
Currently missing Mount Rokkon in-duty dialogue and text from the short story, The Players and the Pawns.
Index:
[Encyclopedia Eorzea]
[MSQ]
[Between Quest Dialogue]
[Stormblood Allied Society Quests]
[Return to Ivalice]
[The Forbidden Land, Eureka]
[Resistance Weapons]
[Tataru's Grand Endeavor]
[Variant Dungeons]
[Mount Rokkon Exorcism Record]
"It's all quite logical once you learn the language."
Abandoned by his parents at an unremembered age, Hancock spent his early years as a street urchin, scrounging in the back alleys of Ul'dah. He knew neither the love nor comfort of a family, but did inherit the gift of a perfect memory and a head for numbers. The precocious youth also taught himself to read, and he employed these diverse talents in the antique book market, buying up cheap tomes unrecognised for their value, and reselling them for a substantial profit. When word of this enterprising lad reached the ears of Lord Lolorito, the merchant prince offered Hancock a position in the East Aldenard Trading Company. It was in the company's offices that the sight of an ukiyo-e print first awoke in Hancock a love for all things far eastern.
Alphinaud: Glad though I am to have arrived, I would remind you all that we are far from home, with limited resources at our disposal...
Alisaie: Duly noted, Brother. I shall take care not to enjoy myself. In any event, Doma is our final destination, and our first order of business should be to secure passage there.
Alphinaud: Captain Carvallain, I realize you pledged only to take us as far as Kugane, and I have no desire to change the terms of our agreement. I should, however, be interested to know how you would go about reaching Othard, were you in our position.
Carvallain: At the risk of stating the obvious...you are in a port. Surely there is a kind and generous soul here who will aid you for the right price? You cannot be the first travelers seeking passage to Doma.
Alphinaud: ...The captain makes a good point. 'Tis like that Yugiri and Gosetsu were forced to come here for the selfsame reasons we were. They must have found a way to Othard─assuming they are not still in the city.
Alphinaud: Hmm... Ere we seek passage, mayhap we should first seek our friends.
Tataru: Leave it to me, Alphinaud! Making friendly inquiries is my specialty. Lest you forget, I got plenty of practice in Ishgard!
Tataru: Captain Carvallain, could you direct us to the nearest tavern?
Carvallain: Desperate for a drink, are we? You may find one in that large building just beyond the pier.
Carvallain: Whether your journeys have come to an end or are about to begin, the Shiokaze Hostelry is an ideal place to rest, relax, and reflect. Or so they say.
Carvallain: And with that, my dear Scions, I bid you farewell. As soon as we have replenished our supplies, we must away. Ours was ever a fast-moving business.
Alisaie: The “spice trade,” you mean?
Carvallain: But of course. Surely you did not think I traveled halfway around the world and delivered you to your destination solely out of the kindness of my heart?
Alphinaud: Perish the thought. Thank you, Captain, and may the Navigator watch over and keep you.
Alphinaud: Right, then. To the hostelry?
Tataru: After you!
Alphinaud: By the Twelve... I thought Ishgard remarkable, but this...We are certainly not in Eorzea anymore.
Tataru: Hee hee hee! A tavern is a tavern, Alphinaud, here or anywhere else!
Now, if you'll excuse me, it's time to do what I do best!
???: Oh! A thousand pardons, my lady.
???: The Scions of the Seventh Dawn, I presume? I hope your voyage was not too trying.
Alisaie: ...And you are?
Hancock: Ah, yes, of course! Forgive me. Hancock, of the East Aldenard Trading Company, at your service. On behalf of Chairman Lolorito, I bid you welcome to Kugane, and invite you to take refreshments at our local offices.
Alphinaud: Lolorito? I was aware his interests extended beyond the borders of Eorzea, but not so far as Kugane.
Alphinaud: Regardless, I am disinclined to accept the hospitality of grinning merchants─especially those who serve a master with whom we have such a difficult relationship.
Hancock: My, such naked suspicion!
Hancock: I do hope that business with the Crystal Braves did not rob you of all faith in your fellow man. Or do you really think the chairman is plotting to drag you into another one of his grand schemes?
Alphinaud: I beg your pardon!? If you are trying to win my trust, you are failing quite spectacularly.
Hancock: Oh dear, have I offended you?
Hancock: Once again, I must apologize. Too much time in the Far East, you see. One is compelled to talk in circles around everything here, and one finds oneself longing for the invigoratingly candid speech of the Ul'dahn markets...though I see now that this was neither the time nor the place to indulge said longing.
Hancock: ...Might I suggest that we continue this conversation at the company offices? Too many eyes and ears here, you understand. 'Twould be decidedly reckless to say any more.
Alphinaud: If I may favor you with the invigorating candor you apparently crave─it would be decidedly reckless to follow a man I neither know nor trust. Give me one good reason why we should accept Lord Lolorito's invitation.
Hancock: Now, there's the young diplomat I was told to expect! Very well, then, I shall explain. You understand that you are come to a most reclusive and secretive nation, yes? One whose borders are closed to foreign trade save at this single port?
Hancock: Then it should come as no surprise that a great many parties have vested interests here. Merchants like myself are a given, of course, but for every one of us, you may be certain there is also an agent of a foreign government.
Hancock: Many notable nations and empires have embassies here, you know─including, of course, the Garlean Empire, with whom you have such a...difficult relationship.
Alisaie: To paraphrase, Kugane is teeming with imperial spies, one or several of whom could now be listening to our every word.
Hancock: Something to that effect, yes. Beneath this veneer of bustling trade, a war for supremacy is being waged between world powers. One might say we were standing on the front lines...just not in public.
Alisaie: I still have my doubts, but he may have a point. I say we accept his invitation─for now.
Hancock: And you must be Forename Surname! Slayer of Gods... Rider of Dragons... Savior of Ishgard... Stealer of Pants─if some of the more puzzling rumors are to be believed.
Hancock: I knew it! May I say what an honor and a pleasure it is to make your acquaintance, my lady. I just know you and I are going to get along famously!
Hancock: Now then, without further ado, allow me to escort you to the company offices.
Hancock: This being your first visit to our fair city, I shall make an effort to point out various landmarks along the way. If you would be so good as to follow me!
Hancock: Everyone! If I could have your attention, please. You are now standing in Tenkonto.
Hancock: Loosely translated, the name means “spire of drifting souls,” which─as some of you may have deduced─makes reference to the aetheryte which stands over yonder.
Alphinaud: Hmm... The design is markedly different from those of Sharlayan, yet I trust its function is identical?
Hancock: A diplomat and a scholar! Will wonders never cease.
Hancock: Far Eastern aetheryte technologies have a long and storied tradition, I assure you. This particular example was constructed by the Onishishu, a collective of skilled craftsmen, who guard their ancestral techniques with the utmost secrecy.
Hancock: In short, you will find it no less reliable than its western counterparts. Attune, if you like.
Hancock: Beautiful though it may be, we cannot spend all day staring at the aetheryte.
Hancock: Come, come, let us move along. The markets are next!
Hancock: We have arrived at the largest shopping district in Kugane: Kogane Dori!
Hancock: “Kugane,” as you are doubtless unaware, is an ancient Hingan word for gold. So, in this prosperous port where golden fortunes are made, lesser fortunes, or “kogane,” are earned by the local merchants. It's all quite logical once you learn the language.
Tataru: Heh heh heh... Now you're beginning to speak my language...
Hancock: Oho! A kindred spirit! What a pleasure it is to meet a young lady who appreciates the value of hard-won coin!
???: Hancock of the East Aldenard Trading Company. You are with clients today?
Hancock: Why, if it isn't Master Keiten! Pray allow me to introduce to you my esteemed guests, but recently come from distant Eorzea.
Hancock: This kind and generous soul supervises all transactions here in Kogane Dori.
Keiten: Your sincerity is ever appreciated. As he says, I am Keiten of the Hakuuchi clan, and it is my honor to serve as overseer of these markets.
Keiten: As we receive many foreign visitors in Kugane, we accept all manner of currencies. Rest assured, your Eorzean gil are welcome here. I invite you to peruse our wares at your leisure.
Hancock: Arms, armor, foodstuffs, potables─here you will find all of them and more.
Hancock: If we may pause here for a moment...
Hancock: This road leads to the Ijin-gai: the district in which “ijin”─or foreigners─are permitted to reside.
Alphinaud: Would this also be where the foreign embassies are found─including that of a certain empire?
Hancock: Precisely. So you see, it would not be at all unusual to cross paths with one of our Garlean cousins here. With this in mind, I would encourage you to choose your words carefully. We would not want any physical altercations, after all, such spats being strictly forbidden!
Hancock: The Sekiseigumi punish breaches of the peace quite severely. I have seen foreigners permanently exiled for a single violation─though, to be fair, this is not common. More often than not, they are executed on the spot.
Lyse: What, cut down then and there!? You're joking, right?
Hancock: Would that I were, but alas, these samurai are a humorless lot.
Hancock: Why, I recall one instance when a foreign merchant in his cups dared lay hands upon a Hingan aristocrat in front of a Sekiseigumi. The samurai cut him in half with a single stroke.
Lyse: Ugh, I don't even want to think about that...
Hancock: So, as you see, it would behoove you to behave. Failing that, we may be forced to “part ways” with one another─or you with yourselves, in the manner of the late Teledji Adeledji!
Hancock: ...Oh, how I amuse myself. But we must carry on! I have yet to show you the Garlean Consulate!
Hancock: This, as you may have surmised, is the consulate of you-know-who. Mark the guards at the gate─are their uniforms not different from those you have seen in the West?
Hancock: Were you to travel far and wide, you would find that many such variations exist, often inspired by local designs. All of which goes to show that even a massive empire seeking to rule all of creation is not without its artisans!
Hancock: There is oh so much more I could speak of─the soothing waters of the onsen, the ephemeral delights of the pleasure district─but you are doubtless still weary from your long sea voyage.
Hancock: Let us retire to the company offices.
Hancock: At long last, we arrive at our destination. May I present to you our humble offices.
Hancock: We have much to discuss, so I will refrain from further prattle. Come, come, right this way!
Hancock: Our thaumaturges took great pains to ward these walls against all manner of surveillance. Where business dealings are concerned, we do not compromise on confidentiality.
Hancock: You may avail yourselves of these offices for the duration of your visit. Come and go as you like, and know that you may speak freely here.
Alphinaud: Your offer is most generous, but I will not enter into any agreement which would leave us beholden to you or your master.
Hancock: A legitimate concern. Allow me to clarify, then: the chairman bids you consider this as an expression of his heartfelt contrition for the bloody banquet and the unpleasantness which followed.
Hancock: Never having been one to put stock in words alone, the chairman deems the provision of material aid to be a more appropriate demonstration of his sincerity.
Hancock: By sheer coincidence, your purpose here also happens to coincide with our own interests. That is, assuming you are come to aid the Doman Liberation Front?
Alphinaud: How could─ ...Hm. I will not bother to offer a denial. Aye, you have the right of it. To be specific, we are come in search of our Far Eastern allies, Yugiri and Gosetsu, whom we hope to assist in their fight.
Hancock: The Auri shinobi and the Roegadyn samurai? Then you will be pleased to know that they have both come to Kugane.
Lyse: Are you sure?
Hancock: Quite. They came here aboard a company vessel, you see. However, they encountered difficulties securing passage across the Ruby Sea.
Lyse: The Ruby Sea? Sorry, I've never been any good at geography.
Hancock: Forgive me. This calls for a map.
Hancock: We are here, in Kugane. The sole open port of Hingashi, situated on her western coast.
Hancock: Doma, meanwhile, is here, on the eastern coast of Othard, in Yanxia.
Hancock: Therefore, if your friends are to reach Doma, they must first cross the Ruby Sea.
Hancock: Alas, this is easier said than done as the Ruby Sea does not fall within the dominion of either Hingashi or Doma, being controlled since antiquity by a third party: namely, the Confederacy.
Hancock: Said maritime collective is known for the consummate skill of its sailors...and for demanding that any vessel entering its waters pay a toll referred to as the “Ruby Tithe.” In exchange, the Confederacy's vast fleet “guarantees the safety” of those who travel within its territory.
Hancock: Now, as I am sure you are aware, Garlemald conquered Doma some twenty-five years past, at which time the Empire saw no value in controlling the Ruby Sea. And thus did they turn a blind eye to the activities of the Confederacy.
Hancock: The recently appointed acting imperial viceroy of Doma had other ideas, however. She has formally condemned the Confederacy and declared that any who recognize their authority shall be branded enemies of the Empire.
Hancock: Bowing to this pressure, Hingashi severed ties with these toll-takers and forbade the payment of the Ruby Tithe, prompting the Confederacy to make it known that any merchants choosing to sail the Ruby Sea would do so at their peril...
Alisaie: No wonder they struggled to secure passage to Doma. What captain would risk such a journey given the circumstances?
Hancock: I am told your friends were not so easily deterred from their course, but I know not whether their persistence bore fruit.
Alphinaud: I say we follow in Yugiri and Gosetsu's footsteps and attempt to secure passage to Doma for ourselves. We will need to cross the sea in any case, and we may learn something of their whereabouts in the process.
Alphinaud: And should we find that they are still in Kugane, we can make the journey together.
Hancock: In that case, I have some information which may be of use to you. No quid pro quo, I assure you─the chairman was most insistent that I aid you to the best of my ability...
Alphinaud: Though I am reluctant to take any action whatsoever that could be construed as placing ourselves in Lord Lolorito's debt...we must avail ourselves of what means are available.
Alphinaud: Our Ala Mhigan allies placed their faith in us, and I do not intend to disappoint them...
Lyse: Well, I suppose we might as well head back to─ Wait! I've just remembered!
Lyse: There was someone on my list I forgot to visit: Gyodo.
Lyse: He's a “Namazu” fisherman─whatever that means─and a regular here. Maybe we'll find him if we look around?
Gyodo: ...What, what? Why do you stare? You have business with me?
Lyse: By the Twelve, a talking fish!
Gyodo: Yes, yes, a talking fish. How very observant of you, ijin.
Lyse: Sorry, I've never met a─ Let's start again. You're Gyodo, right? My name is Lyse, and this is Forename. We're looking for some friends of ours...
Gyodo: I see, I see... Both these ones I know well. I helped them secure passage across the Ruby Sea.
Lyse: Really? That's wonderful! Could you do the same for us?
Gyodo: Yes, yes, this would not be a problem. For you, I could charter a ship this very day.
Gyodo: But the journey is fraught with much peril! The fare will not be cheap. Are you sure you can afford to pay?
Lyse: I didn't think to bring any money...but surely Tataru will let us take whatever we need from the Scions' coffers, right?
Lyse: We wouldn't be the only passengers, though... Could we take a moment to talk it over with our friends?
Gyodo: Yes, yes, but hurry! Your ship must depart under cover of darkness. We shall meet again at sunset on the Tasogare Bridge. Do not forget your fare! Bring many gil, yes!?
Lyse: It's about time our luck changed! Alphinaud and the others will be thrilled!
East Aldenard Trading Company Aide: Greetings, honored madam. Will you be entering the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Yes
No
Alphinaud: We spoke with a number of merchants and captains at the southern piers.
Alphinaud: Several recognized Gosetsu and confirmed that he had been searching for a vessel to deliver him to Othard. None, however, made any mention of Lady Yugiri...
Lyse: Yes, it was the same story for us─and then you'll never believe what happened...!
Alphinaud: ...So this Gyodo claims to have aided both Gosetsu and Yugiri? How fortuitous.
Hancock: Not the word I would have chosen, Master Alphinaud.
Tataru: Stupid's what I'd call it! How can you agree to his price without making any attempt to haggle? Or even confirming what it was in the first place!?
Hancock: Yes...that too was a misstep on their part, but it is not what troubles me most. Gyodo and his brethren are not renowned for their generosity of spirit. Rather, they are disdained as scheming moneylenders, ever eager to turn a profit from others' misfortune.
Alisaie: Everyone else we questioned stated that Gosetsu was alone. Only Gyodo claims to have met both him and Yugiri...
Alisaie: I suppose it's just possible that Gosetsu made inquiries by himself, and only called upon Yugiri once he had found a willing captain...?
Hancock: ...But it is equally possible─if not more likely─that you are being deceived. Do not forget that there are parties present in Kugane with agendas which may run contrary to your own.
Hancock: The viceroy was once a spy herself, as I recall. I should be surprised if she did not have countless agents here in her employ─all eager to prove themselves to their new master. And what better way to do so than by delivering her the heads of foreign insurgents?
Lyse: Fine. You may be right about him. But if Gyodo's working for the Empire, who's to say he didn't try the same trick on Yugiri and Gosetsu? I mean, if he did, he might know where they are. And if he succeeded, they might be in trouble!
Lyse: Anyway, if he holds up his end of the bargain, we'll have nothing to worry about, will we? But if he tries to betray us, I vote we take him prisoner and punch him till he tells us the truth.
Alisaie: So, if it's a trap, we'll spring it and deal with the consequences. Hmm...I like the way you think.
Alphinaud:
Hancock: Once more, I must caution you to avoid physical altercations at all costs─even should imperial agents attempt to engage you. The Sekiseigumi will not hesitate to clap you in irons...or cut you down.
Hancock: If anything untoward should happen, you are to return here at once. Is that clear?
Alisaie: To review: Lyse, Forename, and I will meet with Gyodo as planned.
Alisaie: Alphinaud will keep watch from a distance, ready to provide support in the likely event that Gyodo attempts to betray us to the imperials or whomever else.
Alisaie: Should that happen, you and Lyse will subdue him, and together we will make our escape.
Alisaie: As our actions will surely draw the attention of the Sekiseigumi, we will evade them with Alphinaud's assistance and return here with our prisoner. Does that meet with everyone's approval?
Alisaie: Of course, these precautions will be for naught if Gyodo does not play us for fools...but we shall see. To the bridge!
Alisaie: Our would-be ally is nowhere to be seen... Make ready, Forename. Something smells...fishy...
Alisaie: He's late...
Gyodo: Endless and most sincere apologies to you and yours, yes, yes. This way, this way. Quickly now!
Alisaie: Enough. Where are you taking us? Where is the ship?
Gyodo: The ship, the ship... So very sorry to inform you, yes, yes. Long before was it pledged to another.
Gyodo: To me, to me! These ones are for Doma!
Lyse:
Gyodo: Nothing personal, yes, yes? Just business.
Lyse: Then business is about to take a turn for the worse...
Lyse: Come on, let's find a way out of here!
Alphinaud: Disappointing, but not surprising. In retrospect, we probably should have─
Alisaie: Quiet, Brother! Fight now, talk after!
Lyse: I'll hold on to Gyodo! You deal with the imperials!
Alisaie: As expected, the Sekiseigumi have caught our scent. Since fighting them is out of the question, we'll have to wind our way back to the Ruby Bazaar, evading their patrols as we go.
Alisaie: If they find you, use these smoke bombs to make your escape!
Alphinaud: Split up and head for the Ruby Bazaar! And remember: under no circumstances must you engage the Sekiseigumi!
Sekiseigumi Blade: You there! Lay down your arms and surrender at once!
Lyse: Dammit, they've found us! Use a smoke bomb so we can escape!
Lyse: Nice work! Now, let's find a way out of here...
Lyse:
Lyse: The streets are crawling with Sekiseigumi...Keep those smoke bombs ready.
Lyse: Oh bugger─they've got a whole squadron out front! What do we do now, Forename?
Curious Kojin: Come with me. I will guide you to your friends.
Lyse: First a talking fish, and now a tortoise?
Alphinaud: Thank the Twelve you made it! I feared our Kojin friend might not find you in time.
Curious Kojin: Everything is going to be all right. Trust me...
Curious Kojin: Stay hidden and quiet. Understood?
Sekiseigumi Blade: Clear the road! Clear the road!
Sekiseigumi Blade: You there, Kojin! We seek four foreigners─one a brutish woman carrying an unconscious Namazu. Have you seen them?
Curious Kojin: Four foreigners, you say? Ah, yes! Very rude they were, making no apology as they barged past. They went that way, I think.
Sekiseigumi Blade: Many thanks, good sir!
Sekiseigumi Blade: With me! They cannot have gone far!
Curious Kojin: All is well. The Sekiseigumi will not return this way for some time, I should think.
Curious Kojin: You are of the East Aldenard Trading Company, yes? Come with me. I know a safer way.
Hancock: You are returned─and with guests, I see.
Lyse: Our meeting went about as well as expected. We've brought the Namazu who thought to betray us. When he wakes up, we'll see what he knows about Yugiri and Gosetsu.
Hancock: Well done you. When I saw the Sekiseigumi out in force, I did begin to worry, but I see my fears were misplaced.
Lyse: Actually, if it weren't for Soroban, we might not've gotten away...
Soroban: 'Twas my pleasure.
Alphinaud: Yet I must ask, Soroban: why would you deceive the Sekiseigumi to help us─foreigners of whom you know naught?
Soroban: Why, out of the kindness of my heart...is what I would like to say, but my motives are not so pure.
Soroban: I chanced to witness your meeting with Hancock at the tavern, and saw an opportunity.
Hancock: An opportunity?
Soroban: Like many, I came to Kugane as a trader to make my fortune. Kojin of the Red may serve the Empire as mercenaries, but Kojin of the Blue walk a different path.
Soroban: Regretfully, most here would rather not meet our gaze, much less do business.
Soroban: So I seek the custom of those less predisposed to dismiss us outright. Namely, the East Aldenard Trading Company.
Alphinaud: Quid pro quo, is it? Well, there is no denying that we owe you a debt. What say you, Hancock? Will you consider doing business with our entrepreneurial friend here?
Hancock: Rest assured, Master Soroban, that in matters of trade the company does not discriminate. We would be honored to hear your proposal.
Soroban: I promise you will not regret this, good sir!
Soroban: Ah, yes─you sought passage across the Ruby Sea, did you not? I have a ship you can use.
Alphinaud: You do? Well, then! Far be it from us to refuse! You have our deepest thanks.
Soroban: And you mine!
Lyse: I'm still annoyed he tried to deceive us, but at least we were prepared for it.
Lyse: Even so, next time we should probably try to avoid running around Kugane in the middle of the night with half the city guard snapping at our heels...
Gosetsu: I must apologize. That you endured such trials and tribulations in search of me─
Alisaie: There's no need for that. You had no way of knowing we would come looking for you.
Alisaie: You were after a ship to take you to Doma, yes? It just so happens we have found a willing captain.
Gosetsu: Truly? What fortune!
Alisaie: We will tell you all about it back at the company offices. Alphinaud and Tataru are waiting for us there. East Aldenard Trading Company Aide: Greetings, honored madam. Will you be entering the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Yes
No
Alphinaud: Gosetsu! Thank the Twelve you are unharmed!
Gosetsu: As you can see, Master Alphinaud, I am the very picture of health!
Gosetsu: You! Vile fiend! Malevolent trickster! How kind the kami are to grant me vengeance so soon. But first, I demand you return the coin you so villainously embezzled from me!
Gyodo: Y-You have every right to be angry, good sir! Gladly would I return to you your coin...had I not been forced to repay certain gambling debts beforehand...
Alphinaud: Setting that matter aside for the moment─where is Lady Yugiri? Was she not traveling with you?
Gosetsu: For a time, aye, but we parted ways some while ago, the better to improve our chances of finding Lord Hien.
Lyse: Lord Hien?
Gosetsu: Forgive me, I have yet to explain. Lord Hien is the heir to Doma's throne, and our master.
Gosetsu: His was a passionate voice for the cause of Doman liberation, and when we learned of the Emperor's death, it only grew louder...
Alphinaud: So you seized upon the opportunity and rose up to reclaim your freedom...only for your hopes to be dashed when Zenos led his army unto your lands.
Gosetsu: The crown prince was a merciless foe. Against him and the might of the XIIth, we had no chance.
Gosetsu: Once Lord Hien understood this, he bade Yugiri take to the sea with as many of our people as possible. He, however, would stand and fight, that they might have more time to escape...
Gosetsu: I remained by his side as well, and together we carried on our doomed war. And then, one day, in a fierce battle, we were separated. I knew not what became of him─only that he was beyond the Empire's reach, and that to find him, I would need Yugiri's aid.
Gosetsu: The situation grows more perilous by the day, for the new viceroy, Yotsuyu, is a black-hearted villainess who delights in the torment of our people. There is naught she would not do to further her pursuit of Lord Hien.
Alphinaud: Thank you. I believe that makes matters a good deal clearer.
Alphinaud: It should please you to learn that we are come to aid the Doman Liberation Front in resuming their efforts to overthrow their imperial oppressors.
Gosetsu: Then allow me to join you! My inquiries here bore no fruit, hence my desire to return to Othard.
Gosetsu: Once there, I can lead you to our headquarters in Yanxia, where we shall all be reunited with Yugiri!
Alisaie: Mayhap not all. Alphinaud's talents would seem better applied here in Kugane, working closely with Tataru and Hancock to feed us intelligence. There is a Garlean embassy just down the road, after all─
Alphinaud: While I appreciate the vote of confidence, I should be glad to accompany you all─
Alisaie: As a soldier in the field, so to speak? Come now, Brother, a competent commander assigns his soldiers the tasks best suited to them─as you of all people should know. And you are so very good at espionage and intrigue.
Alphinaud: “...For we all must serve, each in our own way.” Very well. It would seem my place is here.
Tataru: Soroban is waiting at the pier. Have fun, you lot!
After cutscene:
Gyodo: Um... How much longer do you intend to keep me here? I have given my full cooperation, yes, yes?
Tataru: What are you waiting around here for, Forename? Don't you have places to be? Off you trot!
After cutscene:
Hancock: Like the compensation given to the Sekiseigumi, the company considers our aid to you and yours an investment. We look forward to establishing ties with any fledgling governments that may be formed in the aftermath of a successful revolution.
Alphinaud: Just because an individual excels at a particular task does not mean he should be obliged to do it over and over and over again...
Continuing quest:
Soroban: I have been waiting for you, my friends. All preparations have been completed, and my ship awaits its passengers.
Soroban: Shall we depart without further delay?
What will you say?
After you, my shelled friend!
Uhhh...hold that thought!
Soroban: If you insist! With me, everyone! The Ruby Sea awaits!
Lyse: I remember the water. How it turned crimson in the morning sun.
Lyse: A shimmering sea of rubies, stretching from horizon to horizon.
You could almost believe it went on forever...
Lyse: But beyond that red expanse lay a land in turmoil. On the shores of Othard, our Doman brothers struggled in vain...
Soroban: How wide and beautiful she is, the Ruby Sea! Filled with promise and adventure and treasures─many wonderful treasures!
Lyse: Right, then. Gyodo should be coming round soon.
Lyse: I think it's time we had a little chat, don't you?
Lyse: Rise and shine, little fishy. I know you can hear me, so stop pretending to be asleep or I'll give you another ride on my boot.
Gyodo: ...No! No, no, no more boots! All my secrets are yours for the asking!
Lyse: Tell us what you know about Yugiri and Gosetsu. Every last detail.
Lyse: And if I find out later that you lied to me─ Gyodo: No, no, no more lies! The clear, unvarnished truth! You have my word!
Gyodo: Only the samurai did I meet. Yes, yes, only him! He asked after a ship, so I provided an introduction to...to the Garleans...
Alisaie: You mean you led him into a trap, as you did us. Because you are an imperial spy.
Gyodo: No, no, I am no spy! It was just business! Fewer ships pass through Kugane these days, and we have struggled to make ends meet...
Gyodo: So when the Garleans offered a bounty for any Domans found in Kugane─
Alisaie: Oh, my mistake! You're not a spy, but a common cutthroat! Not that I'm surprised─you need half a brain to be a spy. So what happened to the samurai?
Gyodo: Such a cruel, vicious tongue you have...He would not go quietly, no, no. Blades were drawn, men were cut down, and the Sekiseigumi came. They took the samurai away.
Hancock: Hold on a moment! You mean to tell me the ijin they arrested the other day was Gosetsu?
Hancock: Oh, had I but known! If he is in the custody of the Sekiseigumi, I need only see to it that the requisite funds find their way into the right official's hands, and your friend will walk free.
Alphinaud: As it is in Ul'dah, so it is in Kugane...but given the circumstances, it seems we have no choice but to resort to morally questionable means.
Hancock: We'll make a pragmatist of you yet, Master Alphinaud!
Hancock: You are free to wait here while I speak with the relevant official, but if you would rather wait for Gosetsu outside the barracks, we can go together.
Alisaie: I wouldn't put it past the imperials to try something again, so mayhap it would be best if Lyse, Forename, and I joined you.
Lyse: All right, but what about Gyodo?
Alphinaud: I will keep an eye on him for the time being. We can release him after you return with Gosetsu. He will doubtless have some choice words to say to the little fellow. Soroban─mayhap it would be prudent to prepare your ship for our immediate departure.
Soroban: As you wish!
Hancock: Everything is in order? Then let us be off. The Sekiseigumi Barracks are to the north.
Hancock: I must ask that you wait here. You may be assured that this will not take long.
Lyse: ...Is it really going to be as simple as he says, do you think?
Lyse: ...He said it wouldn't take long, right? Because this feels a bit long to me.
Alisaie: Calm down, Lyse. Everything is going to be all right. Much as I hate to admit it, I share Hancock's dim view of government officials and their supposed incorruptibility.
Alisaie: From what I've gleaned of the Far East, they're probably exchanging lengthy pleasantries. There seems to be a correct way to do everything here, bribery being no exception. I say we leave them to it. Right, Forename?
Lyse: Right, right. Everything's fine. Probably. I mean, it couldn't be as bad as the last time we stood around waiting for something to happen...
Gosetsu: Have at you! AAAHHH!
Lyse: Was that...?
Lyse: That was Gosetsu! I'm sure of it! He's in trouble!
Alisaie: Lyse, wai─
Sekiseigumi Blade: Victory to the samurai!
Gosetsu: Hah hah hah hah hah! How many is that, now? Ten in a row?
Lyse: Gosetsu!
Gosetsu: Oho! This is a surprise! What in blue blazes are you three doing here?
Lyse: I could ask you the same thing! We've been looking all over for you─and then I suddenly heard you screaming!
Gosetsu: Hmm... It would seem there has been a misunderstanding. Allow me to explain...
Alisaie: ...So, in summary: you started a brawl with some off-duty imperial soldiers and were subsequently arrested by the Sekiseigumi, whom you somehow befriended and convinced to set you free if you could defeat a given number of them in single combat?
Gosetsu: Ten bouts for my freedom, aye! 'Tis but a pity you came too late to witness the last one.
Gosetsu: And with that, I am free to go, yes?
Sekiseigumi Blade: Our word, once given, may not be broken─but we pray you make every effort to avoid future altercations.
Sekiseigumi Blade: Circumstances notwithstanding, my lord, we are honored and grateful to have witnessed firsthand the skill of a Doman samurai.
Hancock: Ah. And we had just concluded negotiations. I gather my assistance was not required?
Tataru: You're here for the parcel Cid sent, right? Wait a moment, and it will be right out!
Tataru: It arrived not long ago. A porter delivered it to our offices, along with various other knickknacks from Eorzea.
Tataru: Cid regrets that he couldn't come here in person. Apparently his hunt for the dragon and Omega demands his full attention, you see...
Tataru: Still, he was reasonably confident that the documents he provided would be enough for Alphinaud to do the work himself. So as soon as that parcel gets here, we can open it up and see what's inside!
Hancock: Pardon my interruption, but the parcel in question─was it the one you placed on the shelf in the back for safekeeping?
Tataru: I believe so, yes. Why do you ask?
Hancock: Well, you see, on closer inspection, said parcel appears to have been addressed to the Sekiseigumi Barracks.
Hancock: Though it does indeed bulge with a quantity of paper reminiscent of a rather large instruction manual, the lingering scent of lilac leads me to conclude it is in fact a sizable collection of love letters...
Tataru: What!? Impossible! That porter was carrying a parcel addressed to us! I saw the writing with my own eyes!
Hancock: Oh, I do not doubt that in the least. However, as he was tasked with a number of deliveries, I can only presume that he handed you another parcel by mistake.
Tataru: This is a disaster! We have to find that porter right this instant!
Hancock: My, she can move quickly when she has a mind to do so. So quickly she neglected to take these love letters with her. They too must be redirected to their rightful recipient.
Hancock: They should also aid you in tracking down the right porter. They keep records of their deliveries and so forth, after all.
Hancock: The man in question was of middling height and build. Not unlike myself. Black hair, short─terribly helpful in Kugane, I know. A cheery sort. Wearing bright colors, as I recall?
Hancock: I will send a few of my men out to search, but in the meantime, why don't you take the parcel and see if you can't track him down yourself? I will wait here, on the off chance he realizes his mistake and returns.
Overworked Porter: A good evening to you, miss, but I have no time to chat! I have to head to the Bokairo! ...Or was it the Hostelry? Bah, no time, no time!
Item: Lilac-scented Love Letter
“Letter” is perhaps a charitable description, as the weight of this parcel rather suggests a lengthy treatise on why a certain Sekiseigumi ought to accept the undying affections of a certain admirer.
Overworked Porter: Hm? Aye, I recognize that parcel. I delivered it to the Ruby Bazaar not long ago. What of it?
Overworked Porter: Eh? A mistake? For the Sekiseigumi, you say?
Overworked Porter: Bah, you're right! How stupid of me. Fortunately, I have yet to visit the barracks. This is for you, yes? I will take the other in exchange.
East Aldenard Trading Company Aide: Greetings, honored madam. Will you be entering the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Yes
No
Tataru: I'm sorry, I couldn't find him. I guess we just have to hope he realizes his mistake and returns soon...
Item: Cid's Parcel
Though this parcel weighs no less than the other, it lacks the scent of lilac and is therefore much less likely to contain someone's misdirected woo.
Tataru: That's it! That's the parcel! You found him!
Tataru: Though, knowing our luck, Cid put the wrong papers in here...
Tataru: Nope, this is it! These are the documents detailing the operation of the magitek field generators Alphinaud requested!
Hancock: I can only imagine what would have happened had we sent Forename back to Doma with a parcel full of love letters. The look on Alphinaud's face when he reads the first page... On second thought, I'm a little disappointed we didn't.
Tataru: Everyone's working so hard to fight for Doma's freedom, and here I am, making the same silly mistakes...
Tataru: It won't happen again, Forename! And I'll keep working hard to bring you and the others useful information!
Tataru: If we hear anything new, we'll contact you straightaway!
Hancock: Oh, and you may be pleased to hear that we have brokered an arrangement between the company and the Confederacy. They require armaments, we provide. Discreetly, and at a reasonable price.
Tataru: I'm sure Lord Lolorito was pleased to hear it.
Hancock: Ahaha! Indeed he was, indeed he was.
Tataru: Well, it seems our time together is at an end! Give Alphinaud and Alisaie my regards, will you?
Alphinaud: Oh! It seems like just yesterday you were here. Our plans proceed apace. Do you have the documents?
Item: Magitek Field Generator Manual
Never one to take undue risks, it would seem Cid thought it best to send Alphinaud a massive manual detailing the operation of a magitek field generator, to ensure that the boy was prepared for every eventuality. Or possibly to see if he would read the entire thing or simply give up and whack the generator with a wrench (which works nine times out of ten anyway).
Alphinaud: Excellent! This looks to be exactly what we need.
Alphinaud: Assuming our shinobi escort can see us safely inside the Moon Gates, I should have no trouble deactivating the barrier. Good, good─that is one less thing to worry about...
Alphinaud: I informed Tataru of our coming. She and Hancock should be waiting for us in the Ruby Bazaar.
Alisaie: Then it is here we part ways. Best of luck to you and yours in your...piratical endeavors, I suppose.
East Aldenard Trading Company Aide: Greetings, honored madam. Will you be entering the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Yes
No
Tataru: Welcome back, everyone, and congratulations on a job well done!
Alphinaud: It is a pleasure as ever to see your smiling face, Tataru. Less so yours, Hancock, though Rasho and I are sincerely grateful for your assistance.
Hancock: The pleasure was all mine, Master Alphinaud. I assure you.
Tataru: Anyway, you will be glad to hear that I have already chartered passage for you back to Limsa Lominsa.
Tataru: The ship is to leave port this very day, but the captain has agreed to wait until the four of you have boarded.
Alphinaud: The four of us? You mean to stay here in Kugane?
Tataru: Yes. I gave it some thought, and I realized that even with Doma free, there's still a need for a woman in the middle. Maybe even more than before, considering all the friends and alliances you made.
Hancock: As I told her many times before, I would be more than willing to assist you─
Tataru: And as I told you many times before, I am not about to let you worm your way into our affairs and exploit our connections for your personal gain!
Hancock:
Tataru: So there you have it. I will remain here for now. You needn't worry─I'm a regular at the hostelry and a half-dozen other local institutions. Everyone loves me!
Tataru: So go, go! Don't let me keep you. Buy your supplies and souvenirs while you still can!
Tataru: When you've finished, make haste to the docks. Pier number two, to be precise. I'll be waiting for you there!
Tataru: First to arrive, as always. Hopefully the others will not be far behind...
Tataru: Ah, there you are! All packed and ready to go?
Alphinaud: To the best of my knowledge, yes. Apologies for the wait. The task of tying up loose ends invariably takes longer than one allows. Happily, however, all now seems to be in order.
Tataru: Then there's nothing left to do but to board the ship! Do try and enjoy the journey, won't you? It may be your last chance to rest for a while!
Alisaie: That would depend on the good captain's choice of route.
Alphinaud: As ever, Tataru, I pray you take all due precautions while making your inquiries. Better to avoid the local authorities altogether than risk a repeat of our Ishgardian episode.
Alisaie: And what sordid episode is this, pray tell?
Alphinaud: N-naught to speak of, I assure you!
???: You there! Hold that ship!
Lyse: What are you two doing here? Shouldn't you be in Doma?
Hien: Shouldn't you? You left with nary a word! I half-wondered if I had done something to offend.
Yugiri: Upon learning that you had departed for Kugane, we immediately resolved to give chase. Our comrades can manage affairs in our absence, and it seemed the least we could do.
Lyse: You mean you came all this way just to say good-bye?
Hien: That too, aye, but there was something else I felt I had to say.
Hien: You helped us win our freedom, and for that I cannot thank you enough.
Hien: Accordingly, after we have established an interim government and so forth, I think it only meet that we repay the favor by dispatching our own forces to Eorzea. If you would have us.
Alphinaud: We harbored no expectations of such generous aid...and as there is no telling when the Empire might strike back at you, would it not be wiser to concentrate your resources on the defense of Doma?
Hien: I had a mind to pursue a more aggressive defense. To wit, we will send forth shinobi to provinces far and wide to spread word of our victory, that we might inspire others to take up arms as we did.
Hien: Even the Empire has its limits. If the Garleans cannot be certain where and when the next rebellion will take place, how can they commit another force to Doma?
Hien: And besides...so long as this debt remains unpaid, how am I to face myself? And Gosetsu?
Alphinaud: As you wish. I will relay your offer to the Eorzean Alliance.
Hien: All of Doma is counting on you to finish what we have started.
Hien: You have it in you, Lyse, to seize the future you want. Never forget.
Lyse: I won't, Hien─not your words or anything else. Everything that led us here, that will drive us forward─I'll carry it with me, always. And that's a promise.
Hien: Hah hah! I will hold you to that!
Hien: Go with them to Eorzea. Tell their people of our triumph, and of our pledge to stand with them.
Yugiri: By your leave, I shall pave the way for our new alliance.
Tataru: Hurry up, you lot! The ship's about to weigh anchor!
Hien: It seems our time is at an end. Go well, my friends...and may we meet again beneath a western sky. Meanwhile, in the Royal Palace of Ala Mhigo...
Imperial Pilus Prior: I always knew that woman was unfit for command...
Imperial Tribunus Militum: Aye. When you think of all the resources we poured into that hole. And for what?
Zenos yae Galvus: The beast yet lives. Mayhap it is time I sharpen my claws.
Zenos yae Galvus: I wonder, will you walk into my parlor once more...?
Fordola: Fordola rem Lupis, come at the command of the lord viceroy to present the prisoner taken by the Crania Lupi!
Krile: Zenos yae Galvus, I presume?
Krile: It's true what they say. You do have the eyes of a monster. A ravenous, insatiable fiend.
Zenos yae Galvus: You. Give the Butcher your weapon.
Imperial Pilus Prior: My...? Yes, my lord!
Fordola: My lord, this is─
Zenos yae Galvus: A reward given in recognition of your service. I trust you will prove more capable than its former owner.
Fordola: I...I swear I'll not disappoint you, my lord!
Zenos yae Galvus: Good. Now, silence that mewling little piglet. I would not hear another sound pass her lips...until I strip the fat from her.
Lyse: Back in Eorzea at last. Ready to pick up where we left off and finish the fight.
Lyse: We're not who we were when we left. We're stronger and wiser.
Lyse: So let's do it! Let's get back to Ala Mhigo and defeat Zenos once and for all!
Nanamo Ul Namo: Profit... The thought never even crossed my mind.
Nanamo Ul Namo: But standing about lamenting my naivety will not do anyone any good. I shall consider my lesson learned, and press on.
Nanamo Ul Namo: Forename─are you perchance acquainted with any successful merchants? If my attempt at philanthropy is obliged to reap a profit, it would seem wise to consult someone with a knack for business.
Nanamo Ul Namo: Hm... Ordinarily, I would not trust any agent of the East Aldenard Trading Company─but if you hold this Hancock fellow in high esteem, I am content to be led by you. You may repay my faith by journeying to distant Kugane and speaking with him on my behalf.
Nanamo Ul Namo: Eager though I am to visit those shores, I have not the leisure for a lengthy sea voyage. Now, assuming you will travel as adventurers are wont to do, I shall await your report by the aetheryte in Ul'dah. A fair journey to you, Forename─and a swift one, if you please.
East Aldenard Trading Company Aide: Greetings, honored madam. Will you be entering the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Yes
No
Hancock: Forename! To what do I owe the pleasure? Or are you here on business?
Hancock: ...I beg your pardon? Her Grace the sultana would have my opinion on how best to invest the wealth of Ul'dah?
Hancock: My dear Forename... I have you to thank for this...recognition, I am sure. And I am flattered that you came to me. Truly flattered.
Hancock: But why settle for a lowly apprentice, when you could have the master! Upon matters of profit, there is no living soul better-qualified to advise Her Grace than Chairman Lolorito─a man whose morning “exertions” are said to fill his garderobe with gold!
Hancock: I should be happy to arrange a meeting for you...say, at the Scions' former headquarters in Thanalan? The Waking Sands would seem a suitably neutral venue for negotiations, don't you think? Fare you well, Forename, and may your dealings prove fruitful!
Nanamo Ul Namo: Welcome back, Forename. Did your merchant friend have any useful advice to share?
Nanamo Ul Namo: ...With Lolorito!? And you agreed to this!?
Nanamo Ul Namo: I am well aware of his standing in the field of business. But I had hoped to keep the Monetarists at arm's length, and him in particular...
Nanamo Ul Namo: ...Nay. I cannot live in fear of the man. I must learn how to treat with him if I am to rule Ul'dah effectively.
Nanamo Ul Namo: Very well! I will meet with Lolorito. Let us go on ahead to the Waking Sands, and prepare for his coming.
Nanamo Ul Namo: So this is where the Scions first congregated... I have heard many tales, but never had occasion to visit.
Nanamo Ul Namo: To work, then. The hour of the meeting draws near, and I would gather my thoughts. Pray see to it that we have the appointed room to ourselves.
Lolorito: A personal summons from the Scions─this must be important business indeed. Though if it concerns anything so underhand as an assassination, I fear I can be of little help.
Lolorito: Hm hm hm hm.
Lolorito: You have made your point.
Lolorito: 'Tis indeed unsettling to find oneself seated across from an impassive mask.
Lolorito: There. Would this better please Your Grace? Or should I address you as “Lady Lilira,” hmm?
Nanamo Ul Namo: Nay, the deception has served its purpose. I am glad to see you found amusement in my little jest, Lord Lolorito, but shall we proceed to the business at hand?
Lolorito: By all means. I must say, I am most eager to hear your proposal.
Nanamo Ul Namo: Simply put, I would aid the refugees camped in Thanalan in their efforts to return to Ala Mhigo.
Nanamo Ul Namo: The reparations you paid in the wake of your earlier misdemeanors will be used to fund the endeavor─together with the fortune seized from the late Teledji Adeledji's estate.
Nanamo Ul Namo: But this plan is not intended to benefit the displaced alone. I would make of this an investment which shall enrich Ul'dah and Ala Mhigo both.
Nanamo Ul Namo: And who better to consult on matters of profit than the wealthiest man in all of Thanalan? I beseech you, then, Lord Lolorito...share with us your mercantile wisdom.
Lolorito: Ah heh heh... 'Twould seem Your Grace has matured beyond acts of earnest yet misplaced charity. Pray tell me more...
Lolorito: To summarize: in return for facilitating the repatriation of refugees, and assisting in the establishment of new industry in Ala Mhigo, you ask that a proportion of all subsequent profits be promised to Ul'dah.
Lolorito: I am impressed, Your Grace. 'Tis an elegant solution─albeit one lacking certain crucial details, specifically which industry and where.
Nanamo Ul Namo: How swiftly you identify the weakness in my plan, just as I knew you would.
Nanamo Ul Namo: Your travels have taken you across the length and breadth of Gyr Abania, and you know the land far better than I.
Nanamo Ul Namo: Which of the settlements you visited would best provide a home for our refugees? Which has the greatest potential to flourish, given the appropriate investment?
What will you say?
Ala Gannha.
Lolorito: Yes, a quarry town certainly does carry the potential for profit─at least, it would do, were it situated anywhere near a lucrative market. It would cost more to transport the materials than they are worth. In my humble opinion.
Ala Ghiri.
Lolorito: Yes, if a stable trade route can be established between Ul'dah and Ala Mhigo, then Ala Ghiri would once more become an important waypoint. But while such growth would greatly benefit its current residents, I am afraid it could sustain little beyond that...
The Saltery.
Clearly you want me to say “the Saltery.”
Lolorito: Ah, yes─that desolate little village on the shore of Loch Seld.
Lolorito: I know the Saltery and its products well. The imperial invasion brought an end to their more widespread distribution, much to the dismay of many a wealthy gourmand. Myself included.
Lolorito: Salt has ever been a transformative ingredient. And in this instance, I daresay it could transform a modicum of effort into a mountain of gil.
Nanamo Ul Namo: The local citizens will need to be consulted, of course, but I trust the East Aldenard Trading Company can be relied upon to provide its assistance in negotiating a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Lolorito: Naturally, Your Grace. I shall dispatch representatives well versed in the extraction of this “white gold,” and wring every last onze of profit from its production.
Lolorito: The loch's bounty will contribute to Ala Mhigo's enrichment, whilst easing the burden on the Bull's aching shoulders─just as Your Grace desired.
Nanamo Ul Namo: A deal is struck, then!
Nanamo Ul Namo:
Nanamo Ul Namo: But I shall not complain. We have piqued Lolorito's interest and secured his invaluable expertise. Thank you, Forename. I could not have done it without you.
Lyse: Forename! Great timing! I was just about to send word to the Scions. I've got lots to tell you!
Lyse: The council has officially recognized the Resistance as our standing army. And I expect you can guess who's been appointed commander. Suffice it to say, we're in good hand!
Lyse: Having the Bull of Ala Mhigo at the helm's done wonders for morale. People were dancing in the streets when the announcement was made. And we have you and the sultana to thank for it. If you two hadn't worked your magic, he'd never have contemplated following his heart.
M'naago: The council has also decreed that we're to maintain a presence at Rhalgr's Reach. Lyse will continue to lead our forces in the Fringes─a job she's been doing tirelessly. A bit too tirelessly, some might say. We're constantly having to remind her to rest before she falls over.
Lyse: That's an exaggeration─and I always get up again. Anyway, we can hardly afford to lower our guard now. Not after our latest brush with Lakshmi. Speaking of which, we've been keeping a close eye on the Qalyana, and it looks like they've chosen a new leader.
Lyse: It's, um...Shanti's daughter. You know, the half-dead one. For whatever reason, the Qalyana thought she was the best candidate. Which makes them leaderless, basically.
Lyse: As things stand, there's no prospect of engaging in talks, let alone coming to an understanding.
Lyse: But I won't let that stop me. I'll keep on reaching out to them until they finally see sense.
Lyse: Just like I've been reaching out to Fordola. She still won't meet my gaze, but she's given up trying to ignore me. It may only be the odd grunt, but at least she's responding. I'll get through to her yet.
Alphinaud: Forename, there you are!
Lyse: Alphinaud, Alisaie! Is everything all right?
Alisaie: We've received word from Tataru. Hancock has apparently acquired information of great interest and urgency. More than that she didn't say─only that we should come to Kugane right away.
Alphinaud: I had a mind for the two of us to set forth together, but Alisaie is determined to make it a party of three.
Alisaie: As I've told you more than a dozen times, Brother, my wounds are quite healed, and I would benefit from some fresh air. Besides, you may well need an extra pair of hands.
Alphinaud: Worry not, Sister, I have quite given up trying to convince you.
Alphinaud: Whether we be two or three, we should depart as soon as possible. You will be joining us, I trust?
Lyse: Huh. I was about to say I'd come too, but I'll just have to settle for cheering you on from afar. Good luck with...whatever it turns out to be!
Alphinaud: Thank you, Lyse. Rest assured, should this business prove to be of even tangential concern to Ala Mhigo, we shall inform you without delay.
Alphinaud: Let us be off, then. Hancock and Tataru await us at the Ruby Bazaar offices.
East Aldenard Trading Company Aide: Greetings, honored madam. May I show you in?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Yes
No
Hancock: My friends! Thank you for coming at such short notice!
Alisaie: We were told the matter was urgent. I take it Yugiri and Soroban are also involved?
Soroban: Ah, my presence here is but a happy coincidence. I am come on separate business─which can wait.
Yugiri: My apologies.
Yugiri: Master Hancock─pray tell our friends exactly what you told me.
Hancock: Of course, of course.
Hancock: Some few days ago, a large detachment of soldiers was seen arriving at the Garlean embassy. This seemed to me most unusual, as no personages of note are due to visit for a matter of months.
Hancock: So I made a few inquiries, whereupon I learned of a most curious rumor.
Hancock: Apparently, the soldiers were dispatched to Kugane to investigate recent sightings of a certain individual.
Hancock: The late acting imperial viceroy of Doma─Yotsuyu! Alphinaud: I beg your pardon!?
Yugiri: I, too, am loath to believe it. I saw the keep come down on top of her.
Yugiri: We all did.
Hancock: I would not presume to question your eyewitness accounts, nor am I one to take rumors at face value. The fact is, the Garleans have no knowledge of what took place at Doma Castle─they may well be chasing after a woman who merely resembles Yotsuyu.
Hancock: But a woman who resembles Yotsuyu in the company of a grizzled Roegadyn samurai? I daresay that thickens the plot.
Alisaie: ...Gosetsu? He's alive!?
Hancock: While I've no conclusive proof, I thought that such a possibility warranted your attention.
Alisaie: Have you informed Lord Hien?
Alisaie: Well, I think we'd all like to believe the old bear survived.
Yugiri: Indeed. While I dare not give myself wholly to hope, I will not deny that I have prayed for such a miracle ever since that fateful day.
Yugiri: But regardless of my personal feelings, if the Empire has seen fit to pursue these rumors so vigorously, we can scarce afford to ignore them.
Yugiri: I am bound by duty to ascertain the truth of the matter. Will you join me in this quest?
What will you say?
Aye. We'll find Gosetsu together.
Yugiri: Thank you. If Gosetsu yet lives, he will need our help if he is to avoid capture.
I...am not sure what I'd do if I saw Yotsuyu again.
Yugiri: I understand. Only too well. But if Gosetsu yet lives, he will need our help if he is to avoid capture.
Alphinaud: Gosetsu is a dear friend, and we cannot abandon him to the mercy of the Empire. Our course is clear.
Alphinaud: Hancock, is there aught else you can tell us?
Hancock: Alas not─but I have taken the liberty of employing one of the finest informants money can buy. You shall have the latest intelligence on the Garleans' movements and more besides.
Hancock: The informant awaits your pleasure in the back streets of Sanjo Hanamachi. From its shining facade to its dark underbelly, few know Kugane as intimately as he.
Alisaie: “One of the finest informants money can buy”... Why do I have a bad feeling about this?
Soroban: Permit me to assist you in your quest, my friends. The sooner your business is concluded, the sooner we may speak of mine!
Soroban: Should your search take you away from Kugane, my boat is at your disposal. I shall see that she is ready to sail.
Tataru: I'll give Soroban a hand. If he's providing us a ship, the least we can do is supply the provisions. We'll be at the pier if you need us.
Alphinaud: A welcome offer and an excellent plan. Without further ado, then, let us seek out this informant in Sanjo Hanamachi.
Alisaie: This should be the place. Now we wait and see who comes.
???: I-It has been a while, my friends. Yes, yes, a long while indeed.
Alisaie:
Alisaie: Gyodo─any funny business, and you know what will happen, I trust?
Gyodo: No, no! No funny business! Only loyal service and the finest-quality information! O-Of course...such quality does not come cheap...
Alisaie: ...No. But then Hancock already paid you. Honestly, you must think we were born yesterday. I've half a mind to call Lyse.
Gyodo: No, no! No Lyse, I beg you! No boots! I will tell you everything I know─free of charge!
Gyodo: The Empire searches for Yotsuyu. High and low, far and wide. Come to enlist my help, they did, promising rich rewards for decisive information.
Alphinaud: And have you decisive information? Were the two individuals sighted here indeed Gosetsu and Yotsuyu?
Gyodo: Alas, see them with my own eyes, I did not. But the imperials are confident. Yes, yes, very confident indeed. Look at the size of their contingent!
Gyodo: But here is something they do not know... A rumor which you will find most interesting, I think. They say an elderly Roegadyn samurai appeared on Kogane Dori with a beauteous maiden, and sold his katana to a pawnbroker. 'Twas no common katana either, but one of surpassing craftsmanship.
Alisaie: Well, that is interesting─assuming it's true. Did you corroborate the rumor with the pawnbroker in question?
Gyodo: Ah, er...no. Regrettably, I do not have a working relationship with the master of Shofuku Shichiten...
Alisaie: Now why would that be, I wonder. If I didn't know better, I'd think he'd lent you money...
Gyodo: Ahem! H-He will help you, I am certain! While you speak with him, I will make contact with my Garlean connections and learn what I can of their progress.
Yugiri: A glimpse of the blade is all I need to be sure. But is it wise to let the Namazu out of our sight?
Can we trust Gyodo?
What choice do we have?
Gyodo: No other choice but this! And a fine choice it is! Though I am adept at gathering information, it is so much more efficient to share the work!
No, he'll betray us.
Gyodo: No, no! No more betrayals! No more boots! To divide our forces is simply more efficient!
...
Gyodo: D-Do not glare at me so, I beg you. To divide our forces is simply more efficient!
Alisaie: He's right. Given the urgency, we would do well to split up.
And so I will go with our friend here. Nothing improves efficiency like a little supervision.
Gyodo: You─ But─ Er...yes. Yes, yes. We will go together. And there will be no boots!
Alisaie: Let's be about it, then. Good luck with the katana. Shall we reconvene at the pier later on? Fragrant as the Ruby Bazaar offices are, I prefer the fresh air.
Hien: With Yotsuyu safely in Gosetsu's care, all that remains is to answer Asahi's proposal. I realize other matters demand your attention, but I would ask that you stay awhile longer to see this business through.
Hien: My apologies. Our deliberations took longer than expected.
Asahi: Think nothing of it. The time afforded me the opportunity to go on a rather rousing excursion through Yanxia.
Asahi: You have reached a decision, then?
Hien: We are willing to cooperate with you in combating the eikon threat, and also in the exchange of prisoners. Assuming you accept our conditions, of course.
Hien: As you know, your sister is in our care. Due to certain complications, however, we are hesitant to release her into your custody.
Asahi: Complications?
Hien: She was inside Doma Castle when it collapsed. Though she survived, she remembers nothing of her past life─not even her name.
Hien: To clarify, she is in our care not as a prisoner, but as a vulnerable citizen of Doma.
Asahi: Are you saying you refuse to release her?
Hien: Not at all. If her memory returns before the appointed hour.
Asahi: And if not, what exactly...? You will accommodate her here in Doma?
Hien: Well, I sincerely doubt she will be of any great strategic value to the Empire. She spends her days daydreaming of dango.
Asahi: Dango...?
Asahi: ...How dreadful.
Asahi: Very well. In light of our recent...misstep in Sakazuki, it seems only fair that I show you the same understanding you have shown us.
Asahi: ...Though I do have one, small request. Regardless of Yotsuyu's value to the Empire, she is yet my sister. Before I leave, might you permit me to speak with her in private?
Hien: Of course. Perhaps you could even bring her a plate of dango. She would be most pleased.
Hien: Yugiri will see you to her chambers.
Gosetsu: Forgive me, my lord, but...has he not been gone overlong? Perhaps I should─
Hien: Calm yourself, Gosetsu. I understand your concern, but we have to wait. He deserves that much.
Asahi: I am sorry to have kept you all waiting. Thank you for your understanding.
Asahi: Long did I dream of this reunion, but never did I imagine it would be so joyless. A part of me hoped your stories of her condition were just that. But alas, it is as you say.
Gosetsu: Tsuyu... Do you remember anything of this man? Anything at all?
Yotsuyu: I... No.
Asahi: I am a stranger to her. That much was clear to me from a single look. I leave her in your care.
Hien: As you wish.
Asahi: Now, if you will excuse me, my superiors are long overdue a report. They will be elated to hear of our agreement, of that I have no doubt.
Asahi: As for the exchange itself, once I have obtained the relevant permissions, I will arrange for your people to be relieved of their various duties, and sent here to Yanxia. This will take time, of course...
Hien: Of course. You may rest assured your soldiers will be well cared for until your return. We will also begin taking steps to better counter the threat of the Kojin and their eikon.
Hien: Before you take your leave─there is one other matter...I am informed it was you who took the lead in rescuing two young Domans from a band of Kojin sellswords. I have not yet had the time to thank you properly.
Asahi: Please, there is no need to thank me. I only did what anyone would do under the circumstances. Fortunately, I was in good company at the time.
Asahi: The blight of the Red Kojin is of the Empire's making. Were it not for our transgressions, those children would not have needed saving.
Asahi: The people of Doma have suffered enough, my lord. And I promise to do all in my power to spare them further pain, be it at the hands of the Kojin, or indeed the Empire.
Hien: I pray the Emperor will see things as you do. There may yet be hope for us all.
Asahi: Until we meet again.
Hien: Gosetsu. As before, I leave Yotsuyu to you.
Hien: I invite the rest of you to join me outside. Let's treat Asahi to a proper farewell.
Hien: The ambassador's airship awaits at Castrum Fluminis. Let us be off.
Hien: I wish you a safe journey.
Asahi: This has been a most enjoyable visit. I look forward to our next meeting.
Asahi: Maxima, would you take the others and see that all is ready for our departure?
Asahi: I simply cannot leave without first giving thanks to the Warrior of Light for accompanying me through Yanxia.
Asahi: Mark me, savior of the savages. There will be a reckoning.
Liberation Front Samurai: You've nowhere left to run, traitor!
Asahi: Ignorant savages. Killing us will avail you naught.
Asahi: For every imperial you cut down, a thousand more will come. Abandon this foolish endeavor and surrender. You may yet serve our righteous cause.
Liberation Front Samurai: How dare you speak of righteousness! You who forsook kith and kin to serve conquerors!
Liberation Front Samurai: Be glad I grant you this mercy.
Liberation Front Samurai: What in the...?
Liberation Front Samurai: Reinforcements? ...No─just one. Cut him down!
Asahi: Thank you. Thank you, sir!
Zenos yae Galvus: This one is...promising.
Zenos yae Galvus: Who remains to offer us resistance?
Asahi: A...a host of rebels led by Lord Kaien hold the enclave across the river.
Zenos yae Galvus: Lord Kaien.
Asahi: The king of─th-the former king of Doma, sir. They say he is one of the greatest swordsmen alive.
Zenos yae Galvus: Is that what they say.
Asahi: Who...was that...?
Wounded Imperial: Surely you jest? That was Zenos yae Galvus, legatus of the XIIth─the crown bloody prince! I'd heard he was strong, but that...that was frightening.
Asahi: That was...Lord Zenos...?
Asahi: Everything you are─your power, even your face─it vexes me.
Asahi: Go on. Lash out like the beast you are. At an emissary. And jeopardize the newfound peace between Doma and the Empire.
Asahi: My lord was destined to lead us unto a glorious new age. Your light is nothing to his radiance.
Asahi: I will cherish this moment─lock it away within my heart─until the day we meet again.
Hien: You look troubled, my friend. Was it something he said?
Alisaie: Of all the memories to witness.
Yugiri: I had my doubts about him, but I would never have guessed he was a disciple of Zenos.
Yugiri: My lord─
Hien: Calm yourself, Yugiri. I set no store by him or his enlightened brethren.
Hien: But if by treating with them there is even the faintest hope we might secure the return of our conscripted brothers and sisters, I must play this game.
Hien: After the way I risked their lives in the rebellion, I owe them that much.
Yugiri: My lord, you bear no blame for their fate.
Hien: If not blame then responsibility. They were prisoners and still I chose to fight, knowing they could be executed in retaliation.
Hien: But now we have a chance to bring them home. If it means bargaining with a monster, so be it.
Yugiri: My lord...
Hien: Besides, I think he likes me. Which is more than some can say.
Alisaie: It makes no sense. Why would he bother keeping up the pretense for so long, only to drop it right before the very end?
Alphinaud: Perhaps he no longer thought it necessary, having secured Doma's cooperation in the prisoner exchange.
Hien: If he truly is a disciple of Zenos, 'tis possible emotions simply got the better of him. Remaining calm around the woman who slew his lord will have taken its toll.
Hien: Whatever the explanation, now is not the time for hasty reprisals.
Hien: We shall proceed as planned. The Red Kojin must be placed under surveillance and the Garlean prisoners made ready for the exchange...
But you need not concern yourself with the details.
Hien: Leave the affairs of Doma to us. When the hour of the exchange draws near, we will call for you.
Alphinaud: I should certainly hope so. Whatever the Empire's true intent, we would be on hand to play our part, either to defend Doma, or to help usher in a lasting peace.
Alphinaud: I had thought we might use this time to return to Eorzea, but given the volatility of the situation, mayhap it would be best if we remained in Kugane.
Alisaie: Agreed. Between Yotsuyu's amnesia and Asahi's dubious agenda, I'd say we have ample reason to remain in the neighborhood. If anything should happen─anything at all─you must send for us at once.
Hien: Oh, I will. On that you have my word. Charting a path through this sea of troubles promises to be difficult enough. I am not so proud as to attempt the feat alone.
Alphinaud: To Kugane, then. Tataru and the others must know of what transpired here.
East Aldenard Trading Company Aide: Greetings, honored madam. Will you be entering the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar offices?
Yes
No
Hancock: ...My. It seems you're all in quite the predicament. Well, should we receive any urgent missives from Doma, rest assured you will be the first to know of it.
Tataru: Yes, of course. We're discussing ideas to replenish our coffers, but I suppose that all can wait if any urgent news should come through the office.
Alphinaud: Ah... Ahem. About that... I wish to apologize, Tataru. It was reckless of me to make such a purchase without first consulting you. You may be certain, however, that I mean to reimburse the Scions, even if it means drawing upon my personal funds.
Tataru: That's very thoughtful of you, but I'm sure it won't come to that.
Tataru: If Soroban's business proposition is as promising as it sounds, Forename should have no difficulty wiping the red from our ledger.
Alphinaud: Forgive me, Forename. It would seem I have unwittingly heaped my financial troubles upon you. I swear I will pay you back.
Alphinaud: Though I fear I will struggle to cobble together anything of monetary value, knowledge I can gather in abundance. To start, I plan to investigate the divisions forming within the Empire. Mayhap Riol and his associates have heard something on the subject...
Alphinaud: Regardless, the more we know about the politics of Garlemald, the better our chances of predicting the imperials' next move, which might yield you an advantage on the day of the prisoner exchange.
Alphinaud: Knowing what we do of Asahi's apparent resentment towards you, I cannot say what he hopes to gain from it.
Alphinaud: But if there is even the faintest chance that a lasting peace could be forged between Doma and the Empire, what choice have we but to try? Lord Hien had the right of it: Asahi may very well be a monster, but we must play his game. For now.
Asahi: Arranging the prisoner exchange proved easier than I thought.
Asahi: Yes, my lord will be most pleased. Everything is going according to plan.
Asahi: Can you truly remember nothing? Nothing at all?
Yotsuyu: Were we...friends...?
Asahi: Yes. We were good friends, you and I. In fact, I've brought you a gift.
Asahi: I pray that one day soon, as you gaze into that mirror, you will remember the woman staring back at you.
Yotsuyu: It's so pretty...
Yotsuyu: Who are you...? Who are you...?
Meanwhile, in the imperial capital...
Imperial Medicus: How are you feeling, my lord?
???: Fine. Now leave me.
Alphinaud: Ah, Forename, impeccable timing. We have just received a letter from Lord Hien.
Alphinaud: He writes that the Domans are coordinating their efforts with the Blue Kojin to maintain a constant watch over the Red.
Alphinaud: By staying on the lookout for signs of crystal hoarding and the like, they mean to nip any summoning attempts in the bud, thereby satisfying the conditions for peace set down by the ambassador.
Alphinaud: For the Garleans' part, the Populares have sent word that a vessel bearing Doman conscripts is soon to arrive in Yanxia. 'Twould seem that the prisoner exchange is to proceed as planned.
Alphinaud: Lord Hien requests your presence, and I share his view that you should be on hand at this critical juncture.
Alisaie: According to the letter, Yotsuyu's memory has yet to return, so it looks like she'll be living out the rest of her days in Doma─assuming the ambassador means to honor the agreement, of course.
Alisaie: Before we get to that, however, I think it would be wise to assess her condition one last time. If the Domans have missed any change in her mental state, however slight, it would be better if Asahi weren't the one to spot it.
Alphinaud: Agreed. Let us make straightways for the enclave, then. Lord Hien will be waiting.
Alphinaud: I trust you will cope in our absence, Tataru?
Tataru: Don't worry about me─I'll be fine! Just be sure to come back safely!
After cutscene:
Hancock: I am very much in favor of a peace agreement between Doma and the Empire. Loosen that imperial grip, I say, and let the trade routes breathe freely!
Tataru: Alphinaud's been keeping a very careful count of his coins lately. I doubt he'd ask for a sip of water without asking the price first! Hee hee hee!
Continuing quest:
Kienkan Guardsman: Lord Hien is expecting you. May I show you in?
Enter the Kienkan?
Yes
No
Hien: Ah, I see my letter reached you across the Ruby Sea! Thank you for coming so swiftly.
Hien: Though I wrote at some length on the subject of the forthcoming exchange, there was one other matter I neglected to mention...
Hien: It concerns Gosetsu. As you may have observed, he returned from his ordeal rather the worse for wear, and despite his best efforts to conceal his condition─or perhaps because of them─he recently collapsed.
Alphinaud: Good gods! Is he all right!?
Hien: Confined to bed and grumbling without cease, but he has shown signs of recovery. He made me promise not to tell you, lest you worry unduly. Which was all very well when you weren't here.
Hien: Now that you are, however, I think it high time he received some visitors. Might you spare him a moment? Yotsuyu has scarce left his side, and I imagine you are curious to see what has become of her as well.
Alphinaud: We will visit him at once. Forename, Alisaie─shall we?
Yotsuyu: Open wide, now...
Gosetsu: Please, Tsuyu. I am not so frail that I cannot feed myself.
Gosetsu: Ah, I grow weary of the taste of gruel...
Yotsuyu: You don't like it? Can I fetch you something else?
Gosetsu: Aye. Wine! Or if that is not “wholesome” enough─I don't know...a sweet persimmon from Namai? I enjoyed them in my youth.
Yotsuyu: A persimmon.
Gosetsu: Nay, pay me no mind─I am full. Besides, we have guests.
Alisaie: I hope we are not interrupting your meal. We had heard you were confined to bed, and thought you might welcome some visitors.
Gosetsu: Confined to─ A gross exaggeration!
Gosetsu: A trifle drained from my exertions, perhaps. But with a little rest, I shall be fighting fit again in no time!
Yotsuyu: Take off your clothes.
Alisaie: Gosetsu! Is this how you've been spending your time!?
Gosetsu: My lady, I assure you, this is not─
Yotsuyu: Off with them. We need to wash you─you stink!
Yotsuyu: What are all these scars? There are so many of them...
Gosetsu: A life of battle will leave its mark upon a man...
Gosetsu: Is something wrong, Tsuyu?
Yotsuyu: It's nothing. I'm fine.
Gosetsu: Bah, leave me be, woman! I will not be fussed over like some newborn babe!
Hien: They make a convincing pair, do they not? On first acquaintance, I would think him a doting grandsire and her a model grandchild.
Alphinaud: Indeed. Had someone told me a year ago that I would live to bear witness to such a scene, I would have declared them mad. That aside, I am relieved to see Gosetsu has lost none of his spirit.
Alisaie: But what a turn of events... I mean, for her to suddenly be watching over him. You couldn't make it up. Although I suppose Gosetsu is an old man. With the way he charges through life, it can be easy to forget...
Hien: Aye, he has resisted decrepitude with the same defiance he showed the enemies of Doma.
Hien: But no matter how adamant his will, no man can carry on forever. He has pushed himself beyond the limits of endurance too many times─even if his health returns, the fact remains: he will never again be the warrior he once was.
Hien: He has given his all for liege and land, and we will ask no more.
Alisaie: And what of his nurse? If Yotsuyu is feigning that─well, she certainly has me fooled.
???: This is no pretense.
Alisaie: Yugiri. Out of all of us, I would think you the hardest to convince. So...what makes you so sure?
Yugiri: I have been spying on Yotsuyu from the shadows─waiting for the misstep that would betray her charade for what it was.
Yugiri: But her mask has never slipped. Not once. She has remained in character from the first. One evening, I watched her as she sat in her chambers, unguarded and alone...
Yugiri: She had taken the dishes from the cupboard, and was pretending to prepare dinner right there on the tatami. A child's game.
Yugiri: Even the wariest shinobi would not go to such lengths. I can but conclude that her mind is truly broken.
Alisaie: ...Well, that's good enough for me─and everyone else, I would hazard.
Hien: Aye, the matter is settled. Yotsuyu will become “Tsuyu,” and begin a new life here in Doma.
Hien: Before that can happen, however, we will need to present her to the ambassador one last time, to prove that her memory is truly gone.
Hien: But I would not risk parading her in front of our returning conscripts. Her presence at the exchange would only stir up mutinous thoughts.
Alisaie: Understandably. She as good as fastened the chains around their necks.
Hien: Aye─which is why I mean to conclude this business with Tsuyu first, out of the sight of my countrymen. Will you help me?
Alphinaud: We are at your service. There is no higher purpose than the pursuit of peace.
Hien: My thanks. The Garleans are on their way, and we must prepare to welcome the ambassador. We will meet you at the docks with Tsuyu.
Alphinaud: Shall we wait here, then? Lord Hien should not be long.
Hien: My friends! Have you seen Tsuyu!? She is nowhere to be found!
Alphinaud: What? But the Garleans will be landing in a matter of moments!
Alisaie: If she's fled... Could it mean her memories have returned?
Hien: I know not. Yugiri is scouring the streets as we speak, but it is possible Tsuyu has left the enclave altogether.
Hien: Captain─a word. Did you perchance carry a fair-skinned woman across the river?
Enclave Skiff Captain: A fair-skinned woman, my lord? I...I do not rightly know... I think─ Y-Yes! Yes, my lord! Now that you mention it, there was a lady among the passengers whom I do not recall having seen before.
Enclave Skiff Captain: Her face was hidden by the brim of her hat, but I remember taking her hand to help her onto the boat. White as new-fallen snow, it was... Was she someone important, my lord? Have I done something wrong?
Hien: Wrong? ...No. No, I was merely hoping to catch our guest before she departed. Be at ease, Captain.
Hien: 'Twould seem that Tsuyu has crossed the river. Kami help me... No good can come of this.
(Long quest text was cut)
Meanwhile, in the Ruby Sea...
Hancock: ...And so, in summation, the Eastern alliance, as well as the honorable Lord Lolorito himself, reached out to me for assistance in procuring these treasures of the divine─and I, in turn, do beseech the Confederacy for aid.
Hancock: Hm? Is that...?
Soroban: Hancock? What a surprise this is!
Soroban: And a fortuitous one at that. I have a favor to ask, you see...
(Long quest text was cut)
Hancock: My, what a grand welcome party!
Alphinaud: Hancock! And Soroban!
Hancock: We come bearing relics both sacred and Allagan─as well as a few other gifts that may be of help─to be presented with best wishes from the Eastern alliance.
Soroban: I myself have come with a sacred relic of the Kojin. Upon learning of your need, Bunchin bade me deliver it on behalf of the Blue with all haste.
Soroban: Fearing I could not swim here with the necessary speed, however, I thought to beg our Confederate allies for aid. To my delight, Hancock was already preparing for departure at the selfsame port, and had space for additional cargo.
Hancock: We did, of course, need quite the impressive vessel to get it all here in time.
Alphinaud: That is all wonderful to hear, but what of the extraordinary cost? I shudder to think of the ransom we must pay for such a bounty...
Hancock: Fret not for your coinpurse, young Alphinaud!
Hancock: Lord Lolorito looks ever towards the profits of the future, and thus the East Aldenard Trading Company went to some lengths to reduce the financial liability.
Hancock: And since the Scions funded the entire venture, not a gil need be rendered up in compensation. Everything is already yours!
Alphinaud: We funded the venture? When...?
???: Muahahaha!
(Long quest text was cut)
???: Well, well, is that Forename and Tataru I spy?
Tataru: Hancock!? What are you still doing here?
Tataru: You said you were returning immediately after dropping off your cargo.
Hancock: Yes, that was my original plan. After all, any expertise required aside from the delivery of goods is well beyond my purview.
Hancock: But what manner of entrepreneur would squander an opportunity to study the markets of the northern seas? Worry not─I will return straightways to Kugane once I have finished. Tataru: Of course you would find a way to turn this crisis to your advantage.
Hancock: She wounds me, the industrious woman running a new boutique.
Hancock: I am not blind to the travails of those who fight on the front lines to deliver us from ruin.
Hancock: Indeed, I have every confidence they will succeed, and I would make myself─and my business─ready for their return.
Tataru: If you believe in them so devoutly, then why not put your money where your mouth is?
Hancock: Fair enough, Tataru. Fair enough!
Hancock: There is naught more I can do to help ready the ark and her heroes for their maiden voyage, but on your return, I shall host a grand celebration in your honor at the Bokairo Inn.
Hancock: Accommodations are quite costly, given the reputation of said establishment, but the East Aldenard Trading Company would be honored to foot the bill.
What will you say?
I appreciate the gesture, but no thank you.
Hancock: A pity. I'm rather fond of the place myself! Nevertheless, I have no doubt we will find another time and cause for celebration soon enough.
...Will there be lemoncakes?
Hancock: Oho! A woman of tart tastes, I see.
Hancock: Yes, there will be lemoncakes and much, much more—the finest delicacies the world and Lord Lolorito have to offer.
Hancock: But let us speak more of this upon your return, lest I draw even more of Tataru's ire. Until next we meet.
Default: Best of luck to you in all your revolutionary endeavors. After all, the Empire takes a dim view of free trade, whereas the company is of, how shall I put this...rather the opposite opinion.
After The Time between the Seconds: Everything in Yanxia proceeding according to keikaku? Very good. I must confess that I was most saddened to see Master Alphinaud go, but duty calls and so forth. Rest assured that Tataru and I will keep you abreast of all developments we deem worthy of your attention.After The Room Where It Happened: Well, well, well! What a pleasant surprise this is!
After How Tataru Got Her Groove Back: I can see it now. Confederate ships sailing up the One River, equipped with the finest Lominsan-made cannons, provided by the East Aldenard Trading Company. The world is not as big as it once was, my friend.
After The Die Is Cast: I say, I consider myself to be a man of impeccable timing, attuned to the rhythms of the cosmos...and I have a sinking suspicion you shouldn't be here. Not yet, that is.
After A Swift and Secret Departure: Setting your sights on Ala Mhigo next, I presume? Excellent. The chairman is most interested in seeing how that whole affair plays out. Hm? Is the company willing to openly aid the Gyr Abanian campaign? Oh, heavens no. Far too close to home. 'Twould be an unconscionable risk.
After Stormblood: First Doma, then Ala Mhigo. Well done you. I doubt not even the chairman expected you to be so damn good at warmaking!
Owing to your efforts, the company is now free to expand into several emerging markets. At the risk of waxing poetic, I think this may be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Who knows─we may even come to call one another “aibou,” as the Hingans do. 'Tis a most deep and meaningful word, aibou─some translate it as “friend,” but I think it better not to even bother trying, so unique and quintessentially Hingan the concept is...
After Return of the Bull: Forename! Welcome, welcome! I hear your negotiations with our chairman went splendidly! Offering up the Saltery as a potential investment was a master stroke, I must say. Like many a gourmand, the way to Lolorito's purse is through his stomach! Ahahaha!
After Tidings from the East: The Empire's recent movement presents an opportunity for profit. You may leave it to me to sniff it out!
After Rise of a New Sun: More often than not, it seems opportunity is wont to come knocking when the Scions are about. So long as you and yours remain here in Kugane, I'm certain a profitable venture will present itself.
After A Power in Slumber: Greetings, my friend. If you are looking for Tataru, she has left with Mistress Alisaie to speak with the good people of Garlond Ironworks.
After The Call: I'm reliably informed that Doma seeks to forge an alliance... The thing about alliances, of course, is that they can be so very expensive. While I daresay it's within the company's means to provide the necessary funds, it is for the chairman to decide whether such an investment would be worth the risk.
After What a Wonder-full World: You have my personal thanks for rescuing Alpa, of course. It wouldn't do to have visitors to Kugane go missing, especially ones that are ostensibly my responsibility!
After A Requiem for Heroes: I must confess, the offices have not been quite the same since Tataru left... They're considerably quieter, for one thing. But don't tell her I said that, all right?
Default: What a pleasure it is to see you again. Allow me to express my gratitude for your part in paving the way for many extremely lucrative dealings with the merchants and artisans of Sharlayan! Regrettably, the celebration I plan to hold in your honor will have to be postponed somewhat. I am absolutely inundated with appointments to meet with recently made acquaintances, such as the alchemists of Radz–at–Han and members of the Forum. Chairman Lolorito would be most displeased were I to pass up yet more money-making opportunities!
Default: I trust our feast at the inn has put sufficient spring in your step to propel you up Mount Rokkon.
Default: Few have a deeper appreciation of your derring-do than I. Otherwise, I should never have entrusted you with my life during our explorations. The eagerness with which you hurl yourself at even the most fearsome of mononoke does give me pause, however. Have care that you do not grace Thal's halls before your time.
(Long quest text was cut)
East Aldenard Trading Company Assistant: Ah, Master Surname! Hancock sent me to look for you─I'm glad to have found you so close by. He said he needs to meet with you, but wasn't clear on the details. I suppose he'd rather explain it to you in person. Would you mind taking a moment to speak with him? He's over at the harbor.
East Aldenard Trading Company Assistant: Thank you! Just make your way to Pier #2, if you please. I'll let Hancock know he can find you there.
Hancock: If you would be so kind as to wait at the pier, I shall join you anon.
Hancock: Forename, my friend! Good to see you again. Thank you for coming to meet me─though I confess that I knew you would. You are such an agreeable sort, always ready to help your friends and close acquaintances...
Hancock: There's no need for such facial exertion─my request is a straightforward one.
Hancock: As it happens, I've been asked to escort a few members of the Ala Mhigan Resistance on a tour of Kugane. It seems they are interested in seeing the fortifications that have allowed Hingashi to survive as an isolationist nation for so long.
Hancock: I've never met them, and it occurred to me that the presence of someone such as yourself, who has an established rapport with the Resistance, might smoothen our introduction. What say you?
What will you say?
Right you are, my bosom companion!
If I just have to stand there, fine.
Hancock: Good to hear! Particularly as they'll be here any moment. By my estimation, they should be disembarking just about now.
Hancock: Aha, and right I am.
Hancock: Esteemed members of the Resistance, welcome to Kugane! Allow me to introduce myself. I am Hancock of the East Aldenard Trading Company, and I will be your guide to this fair city.
Alpa: I appreciate your coming to meet usss! I'm Alpa, captain of the Velodyna Gatekeepers.
J'olhmyn: And I'm J'olhmyn, Alpa's second-in-command. Pleasure to meet you.
J'olhmyn: Is that you, Forename? Fancy meeting you here, of all places!
Alpa: What a pleasant sssurprise! Are you here to show us around?
Hancock: Now that is an excellent proposal, Miss Alpa! I'm certain the two of you would feel more at ease seeing the city with someone you know. Don't you agree, Forename?
Hancock: In that case, I shall leave the role of guide to you. Meanwhile, I can secure accommodations for our guests.
J'olhmyn: I get the feeling that you didn't have much choice there... Sorry about all this.
Alpa: If it's alright, I'd like to visit the castle first. I'm eager to see its fortifications!
Alpa: It'sss beautiful...
J'olhmyn: It does look nice, but I can't imagine it's much use as a fortress. Too decorative.
Hokushin: What unusual attire! I can see you are not native to Kugane. May I ask where you hail from?
Hokushin: By the kami, that tail is real? Are you a mermaid!?
Alpa: Don't be absssurd! I'm no mermaid, I'm an Ananta.
J'olhmyn: There are many like Alpa in Ala Mhigo, our homeland. There's no need to be alarmed.
Hokushin: Ah, so you are of a Western race, then. Pardon me─I jumped to conclusions. It can be somewhat dull guarding the gate here─particularly as only an utter fool would try to break in─so I sometimes let my imagination get the best of me.
Alpa: It's alright─no offense taken. But if you have a moment, would you mind telling us more about this castle? I'm curious as to how a single guard at the gate is sufficient to keep it sssecure.
Hokushin: Of course. I'm no expert, but I will gladly teach you what I know. Consider it an apology for my rudeness.
Hokushin: The central keep that towers above us is of a complex and strategic make, incorporating myriad defensive elements.
Hokushin: As you can see, the most prominent part of the facade features regular openings from which to unleash a veritable hail of arrows or musket rounds. We call these sama, and they make it nigh on impossible for an enemy to approach from the front.
Hokushin: Similarly, those unlucky souls who attempt to scale the walls are like to be met by tumbling boulders or boiling oil released by those manning the many brattices.
Hokushin: Should one somehow manage to infiltrate the castle proper, he will find it a trial to get out again, for the pathways inside are like a maze by design.
Alpa: To think sssomething could be so elegant in both form and function! I'm impressed.
Hokushin: All that said, the castle has been taken before. Not too long ago, an unscrupulous sort named Kageyama and his underlings managed to sneak in during one of the bugyo's galas, taking advantage of the stream of people entering the castle.
Hokushin: All that said, the castle has been taken before. Not too long ago, an unscrupulous sort named Kageyama and his underlings managed to sneak in during one of the bugyo's galas, taking advantage of the stream of people entering the castle.
Hokushin: If one doesn't have Blue Mage quest progression?: Which mainly goes to show that all of the clever defenses in the world mean nothing if you fail to check who's coming through the front door.
Blue Mage related?:
That said, I don't believe in relying on fortifications overmuch. Get complacent enough and your enemy will walk right in through the front door. Which is why I'm here, incidentally.
Alpa: A most inssstructive tale. Thank you!
Hancock: I had a feeling that I would find you here. Your accommodations are ready. Since your journey was a long one, I recommend that you stop for a soak in Kugane's famed hot springs before you continue your sightseeing. I can personally vouch for their efficacy in soothing body and soul.
J'olhmyn: In that case, how could we refuse?
Hancock: That's settled, then! Just make your way to the Bokairo Inn at your leisure. I must return to the Ruby Bazaar, but I've ensured that you will find everything in order.
Alpa: My first Hingan hot springs! I hope you'll join us, Forename.
Hokushin: She really is like a faerie tale mermaid come to life. The other bathers are in for a surprise...
Hokushin: Come to think of it, it's possible that our tales of mermaids were based on sightings of Ananta to begin with.
Hancock: I leave our guests in your capable hands!
(Long quest text was cut)
Kageyama: What is the meaning of this!?
Disappointed Townsperson: Oh, cruel fate, why do you mock me?
Kabuto: Well done. But why a fish?
Alpa: I saw one on the Namazu's strange contraption earlier. It was so cute, I just couldn't stop thinking about it.
Disappointed Townsperson: I don't even like fish.
Kabuto: I believe it's time that you accepted your fate.
Hancock: Yes, I think that's quite enough escape attempts for one day. You've made it perfectly clear who the villain here is. Right, my Sekiseigumi friends?
Kageyama: You can't do this to me! I have a woman to coerce! A matrimonial banquet to consume!
Kabuto: It seems that the matter is resolved at last. Shall we go and inform the others?
Bwagi: Do not be put off by Lady Fran. The general has quite the edge to her, but it is only because she wants what is best for the resistance.
Gijuk: I've finally come to accept Ba'Gamnan is gone for good, but I will never forget how he met his end. I cannot allow my hatred to consume me as it did him.
Rinok: Fran is not too bad, once you're on her good side─her only good side being her backside...but you didn't hear that from me.
Montblanc: Hurry, hurry! If I don't tell someone of our adventure quick, I'll positively burst, kupo!
Shuttle Pilot: Do you seek passage to the Prima Vista?
Enter the tiring room?
Yes
No
Ramza bas Lexentale: This woman asks much of us...
Jenomis cen Lexentale: The Viera have ever been wary of outsiders. For centuries their many tribes have remained hidden in the jungles, content with their self-imposed solitude.
Each tribe has its own strict code and will mete swift punishment to any who would defy these laws. As such, many a Viera will spend her entire life bound to the territory of her ancestors, both unwilling and unable to venture beyond its borders.
And while the tribes are wholly independent, they have agreed to uphold a single standard: shun all contact with the outside world unless it is to protect the jungle.
That said, with every generation there are those Viera who long for a life beyond the verdant sea of trees and abandon their tribes to start a new life in the kingdom's cities. My guess is that this Fran is one such individual.
Montblanc: Who also happens to be the only individual we know who can guide us to the monastery, kupo!
Lina Mewrilah: It seems Forename's sword arm won't be enough to see us through this predicament. He'll need to don the right mantle of a diplomat if we're to convince the alliances and the East Aldenard Trading Company to grant us aid. What could go wrong!?
Hancock is broadcasting dialogue over a linkpearl or speaker. Hancock: Yes, yes, I know you said not to call unless it was urgent, but this is urgent. All right, not exactly, but my superiors have come to a decision on your request, and I thought you might want to hear what they had to say.
Oh, and let me preempt any request for immediate disclosure with a reminder that the information is much too sensitive to discuss over linkpearl. Meet me at the Ruby Bazaar posthaste and I shall duly apprise you of their judgment.
Lina Mewrilah: Well then, Forename. What are we waiting for?
Ramza bas Lexentale: It saddens me that I cannot be of any aid. You have every right to thank me weak, Forename...for I am. At least now, I might admit it...
Hurdy: Has my brother been behaving? And here I ask this already knowing the answer, kupo...
Montblanc: A trip to the Ruby Bazaar? Will there be refreshments? No? Well, then count me out, kupo!
Jenomis cen Lexentale: I pray for your success, Forename. Not because I am a man of religious Tendencies, mind you. It simply feels like the proper thing to do in these sorts of situations.
Now, is there aught you wished to ask of me?
Lina Mewrilah: I've read about how you united the whole of Eorzea under a single standard and convinced the Holy See to end a thousand-year conflict. Compared to that, asking for a few soldiers and a coffer or three of gil should be a piece of rolanberry cake!
Ah, I suppose we should inform Bwagi down at Kugane Landing of our progress. You mentioned he was to keep an eye on us.
Lina Mewrilah: I've informed Bwagi of our situation. We are ready to make for the Ruby Bazaar when you are.
Gijuk: I've finally come to accept Ba'Gamnan is gone for good, but I will never forget how he met his end. I cannot allow my hatred to consume me as it did him.
Rinok: Fran is not too bad, once you're on her good side─her only good side being her backside...but you didn't hear that from me.
Bwagi: So you've an answer from East Aldenard already. Impressive. It would seem the Lady Fran has underestimated your influence amongst the realm's players. I assume you have no objections to me joining you then.
Gijuk: Rinok and I will stay here with the airship. Our last foray into the city was met with one too many cold stares for my liking.
Rinok: Vessels such as ours require extensive maintenance to remain skyworthy. You and Bwagi take as long as you need.
Bwagi: Whenever you are ready, Forename.
Lina Mewrilah: Hancock awaits us in the Bazaar. Shall we, Forename?
Enter the Ruby Bazaar?
Yes
No
Hancock: A lovely lady and a...Bangaa? And here I was expecting you would be alone, Forename!
Ah, but excuse my manners. I am Hancock, representative of the East Aldenard Trading Company assigned to oversee her assets here in Kugane. It is a pleasure to meet you.
Yugiri: And I am Yugiri. We apologize for making you come all this way.
Tataru: Not that it is far from the landing to─ Ahem.
Yugiri: Bwagi, was it? I serve Lord Hien, rightful ruler of Doma. I have come bearing my nation's reply to your entreaty.
Tataru: And I am Tataru Taru of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. I'm only here seeing as no one else could be bothered. Well, that and to bear a message from the leaders of the Eorzean Alliance.
Bwagi: Thank you both for coming. I am Bwagi, formerly of the Dalmascan Royal Fusiliers. I now claim allegiance to Lente's Tears─a resistance group seeking to accomplish what you have in Doma and Ala Mhigo.
What tidings have you brought us?
Hancock: Allow me to begin then. While the East Aldenard Trading Company sympathizes with your plight, we are not in a position to grant you the funding you seek.
As you are aware, the East Aldenard Trading Company prides itself in its neutrality, be it in matters political or personal.
And what of our relationship with the Eorzean Alliance? Ah...yes. What I meant to say was, here in Hingashi, the East Aldenard Trading Company prides itself in its neutrality, be it in matters political and...er...
You must understand our position. Simply supplying coin to any one group would make it appear that we somehow favor that group over another. Seeing as we conduct business openly and fairly with everyone, doing such would be sending the wrong message, and ultimately harm profits. Yes.
Lina Mewrilah: And by selling to both sides, you maximize profits while good men and women perish. How convenient!
Hancock: We are a business, milady. We do what we must to survive. That does not mean, however, we are blind to the needs of our customers or our allies, which is why we support the Eorzean Alliance and their noble efforts to safeguard their realm's freedom through a mutually beneficial arrangement.
If it were my choice, I would provide your little resistance with all the funding it needs, but as my good friend, Forename, knows all too well, it is not my choice.
Tataru: Well, now that Hancock's thoroughly lowered your spirits, you won't be as crestfallen when I inform you the Eorzean Alliance will also be unable to provide any assistance.
Bwagi: And let me guess, you did everything in your power to try and convince the leaders of each city-state, only to watch as they politely declined our proposal, claiming an unfortunate lack of intelligence or resources.
Tataru: Wait, how did you─!?
Yugiri: Lord Hien sends his greetings to you and yours. Having recently found strength through a newly formed alliance with our neighboring nations, Doma is open to further welcoming like-minded organizations. This includes our Dalmascan brothers and sisters still suffering under the imperial yoke.
However, word has it that the latest attempt at reclaiming your kingdom ended in failure, resulting in the loss of countless lives, including many of the resistance's leaders.
Bwagi: You are not mistaken. Our army is not what it once was. Those remaining have been forced to take refuge deep beneath the streets of Rabanastre.
Yugiri: The IVth Legion has already defeated you once. Lacking unity and leadership, the current resistance will not survive another tilt against the Empire's disciplined ranks.
If Doma is to join hands with Dalmasca as an ally, you must first prove to us that you will stand as one.
Bwagi: Doma as a full-fledged ally would serve far better to strengthening our cause than a few temporary soldiers.
Yugiri: Yet even if we were able to wrest Dalmasca from the Empire's grasp, without unity amongst your people, the resulting chaos could prove even more perilous to the kingdom.
Bwagi: You understand much of our situation.
And based on that understanding, you would refuse your aid to Lente's Tears, am I correct?
Yugiri: Do not mistake me. Lord Hien's refusal is but a message─a message to help you plan your next step.
Bwagi: You have a wise master. He understands that without proper planning, driving one enemy from your midst simply creates room for the next.
Lady Fran will no doubt be pleased to hear that your response was exactly what she expected.
Lina Mewrilah: You knew this whole time that your demands would be rejected, yet still you let this farce play out?
Bwagi: You have my apologies, but this was all necessary to prove an important point to our leader.
Lady Fran needed to show the princess just exactly what she was getting herself into, and your honesty today will serve us better than any hollow promise. Thank you.
Lina Mewrilah: Wait! What about the Golmore Jungle!?
Can you believe this? We're right back to where we started! Principal Jenomis will not be pleased.
Jenomis cen Lexentale: If it is as you say, it is most unfortunate. But, I suppose we did everything in our power, and that is all one could ask.
Ramza bas Lexentale: I still do not understand. Why would Lady Fran send Forename on this wild paissa chase if she knew from the start it would be for naught?
Lina Mewrilah: Bwagi mentioned something about Fran proving a point to their leader...whomever that may be.
Jenomis cen Lexentale: People in positions of power can prove both naive and stubborn creatures. Simply telling a leader she is wrong may not convince her of the fact. Seeing one's own plan fail, however, is oft the best medicine.
Lina Mewrilah: Naive and stubborn? Then the resistance is doomed!
Montblanc: If a person as imposing as Fran is taking orders from her, then chances are this “leader” is even worse, kupo!
Jenomis cen Lexentale: I would not be so certain, Montblanc.
My guess is that the individual in question is still quite young and inexperienced, and that Lady Fran is trying to teach her to be an effective leader through example.
By allowing her to make her own mistakes, Fran is granting her the ability to learn and grow from them─an experience that will ultimately benefit her when the time comes to make some truly difficult decisions.
Now, I seem to recall reading that one of the many faces of the resistance before the recent quelling was a young girl of royal blood. Do you suppose─
???: You may cease with your baseless presumptions, defector.
Bwagi: The door was open.
Ramza bas Lexentale: And you would be?
Fran: I would be here on orders from the leader of Lente's Tears. Against my better judgment, mind you.
Jenomis cen Lexentale: Greetings. Lady Fran, I presume? I am Jenomis cen Lexentale, principal of the Majestic Theater Company. You and your colleagues are most welcome on the Prima Vista.
What is it your leader would have of us?
Fran: While you failed in meeting even a single of our demands, she recognizes that you were sincere in your attempts to see them fulfilled, and for that effort, you are to be...compensated.
Jenomis cen Lexentale: That is most generous.
Fran: The ruins which you seek are hidden behind a waterfall here─a point roughly equidistant from the river's source and its delta.
Ramza bas Lexentale: You have our thanks, Lady Fran. We will not forget this kindness.
Father, I shall plot a course immediately.
Alma bas Lexentale: Ramza... What is going on here?
Ramza bas Lexentale: Alma! You should be in bed!
Alma bas Lexentale: I've slept enough, Brother. Tell me, who are our guests?
Bwagi: It appears you once again prepare a leap into danger's maw. Keep your wits about you, Forename. Lady Fran is strong...but then again, so was Ba'Gamnan.
Ah...if you'll excuse me─
Ramza bas Lexentale: Are you mad!? A trip to the surface in your condition!?Alma bas Lexentale: Listen to me, Brother. The High Seraph beckons. She speaks to me through the Otius.
Ramza bas Lexentale: The what!?
Alma bas Lexentale: There is no need to worry. Mikoto and I have already devised a plan. I can help clear our family name!
Jenomis cen Lexentale: The Sharlayan has no say in this. I am your father and I insist you remain here on the airship! What would your mother say if I allowed aught to befall you!?
Alma bas Lexentale: Mother? That is what this is all about, isn't it!? What it has always been about! You care not about Ivalice or the Orran name. No, you only seek to use the auracite to bring Mother back!
But you haven't been able to do that. You still do not understand how exactly it is that the shards translate one's desires into reality. That is where I can help. I can ask the High Seraph. It is she who created the auracite.
Ultima has bid me come to her place of imprisonment. If we free her, she will reveal unto us the secrets of her creations!
Ramza bas Lexentale: Do you hear what you are saying, Alma! Even if there was the slightest chance of bringing Mother back, we cannot risk your life in doing so!
Jenomis cen Lexentale: Your brother is right! We have sacrificed too much already! I cannot bear the thought of losing you! Either of you!
Alma bas Lexentale is speaking an unusual language that the Warrior of Light can understand through the Echo.
Alma bas Lexentale: It is too late!
Ominous Voice: I'm so lonely, Father. Why must you love Ramza more than you do me?
Mikoto: Do not be coz
ened by your daughter's words, for they are not her own.Alma bas Lexentale: Help...me...Ramz─
Ramza bas Lexentale: Alma!!!
No! No!
Fran: Gods forfend...
Bwagi: I told you. No one can control the power within those shards. No one!
Mikoto: Forename! Here, take this. It might be the only thing that can save Alma, but we must hurry to the monastery!
Ramza bas Lexentale: Come. We leave for the Golmore Jungle...now.
Rinok: Don't tell me... I can see it in your eyes. The auracite claimed another victim. You were fools to think you'd fare any better than Ba'Gamnan. Fools, all of you.
Gijuk: What happened here? Is everything alright?
Fran: Was the power I sensed beyond the rift─ Was that the High Seraph?
Bwagi: I told her. I told her this was a mistake, and now look what has happened. If you were wise, you'd toss all the remaining shards into Hells' Lid and cut your losses. But you've no more wisdom than Ba'Gamnan. And that's why the High Seraph has already won.
Montblanc: What do we do!? What do we do!? We cannot just leave poor Alma to become one of those...one of those...monsters, kupo!
Hurdy: I think we saw enough to prove that Ultima is no angel, kupo. But if she's not...then what is she!?
Jenomis cen Lexentale: I've been such a fool...and now I've lost my daughter. Will you ever forgive me, Tia?
Lina Mewrilah: I cannot believe what I just witnessed... I won't believe it. I won't. There. It didn't happen.
Mikoto: I have good news and bad news, Forename. The bad news is that it appears the High Seraph was able to employ the Otius as a catalyst to propel her magicks beyond whatever seal she is trapped behind. The good news is, this means my device should function as intended.
Its design is based off of one of Moenbryda's. It repurposes the logic behind her aetheric siphon into a means of disrupting aetherflow by reversing common wavelengths and─
And let us just say it has already been calibrated to match the energy emitted by the Otius. As long as Ultima continues to wield the Otius, we should be able to interfere.
But it only works if we can find Alma. Which is why we must make haste.
Ramza bas Lexentale: Have I your permission to depart, Forename!? Every moment we tarry here, my sister, she─!
What will you say?
Of course, Ramza.
Ramza bas Lexentale: Then hold on. I've set engines to full speed!
Now is not the best of times.
Ramza bas Lexentale: No, it is the worst of times! I beg of you. Do not ask me to wait any longer. For Alma's sake.
Fran: Welcome to the land of my people. 'Twould be a poor lie if I said I did not miss it some.
Ramza bas Lexentale: Alma!
Alma bas Lexentale: Ramza... Help...me...
Ramza bas Lexentale: Alma!!!
Begone!
Lina Mewrilah: Alma! Ramza!
Ominous Voice: Blood...of the invokers... Fulfill...the ancient covenant...and grant unto me...the vessel...promised.
Lina Mewrilah: What just─!?
Fran: Bwagi, to me! The girl is not well!
Montblanc: Uh, might I suggest we continue this back at the Prima Vista, kupo!?
Unknown Voice is speaking an unusual language that the Warrior of Light can understand through the Echo.
Unknown Voice: Have you the courage to face true evil?
Montblanc: What are you gawping at!? The ship is this way, kupo!
Jenomis cen Lexentale: Now Ramza is gone? Oh, dearest Tia, what have I done? What have I done!?
Shamani Lohmani: So you have brought me an empty bottle─Ah, but what is this? The cork remains in place! That is most fortunate.
If an adequate seal was made, there may still be traces of the wine within! May I?
Flamboyant, yet elegant. A thought-provoking blend of kukuru beans and cinnamon, with just a hint of...is that rosemary? A veritable kaleidoscope of both opulence and refinement.
Long has it been since I last encountered a bouquet of such complexity, yet I recall it as if it were yesterday. Without question, this bottle once held a Dalmascan Lea Monde red by the name of Valens. To think I would have the opportunity to experience it again after so many summers...
...But I suspect Master Gegeruju will not be as satisfied with a sniff as I.
Now, one without scruples might see the empty bottle as the basis for a ruse─
Hancock: One man's ruse is another man's keikaku!
Over the years, I have had numerous dealings with the lord of Costa del Sol, and while he is many things, an expert on wines is not one of them.
Not that it would matter if he were. Mend of his standing invariably find more joy in boasting of their acquisitions than in consuming them. In all likelihood, Master Gegeruju will never even open the bottle, rendering the provenance of its contents practically irrelevant.
Ah, but where are my manners? This forays back to western climes always bring out the barbarian in me. It is a pleasure, Forename. Lest you wonder at my presence here, my employers see promise in the Hingan wine trade, and desire the establishment of a viable route 'twixt east and west. I am come to see their plan to fruition.
But returning to your dilemma, I believe that I may be of assistance. I just so happen to have on my person several sample bottles of Hingan wine made with grapes similar to those once found in Dalmasca. For a close acquaintance, I would be more than willing to part with one that she might fill her empty vessel.
Shamani Lohmani: But that would be...unjust! As a maker of wine, I cannot allow it!
Hancock: Master Gegeruju has cozened more of his clients than he can count. How do you think the man amassed his fortune? By playing fair? Would that the world were this. But I am here to tell you it is not.
So! It is decided then. We shall employ deceit as our morally justified means to a happy end.
Shamani Lohmani: W-Wait! This is a fool's errand!
Hancock: Then let us be glad our quarry is a fool himself!
Now, if you will excuse me, I must go and tell the gentle citizens of Wineport why they should be drinking Hingan. Good day!
Wandering Dramaturge: The Suhd Viandja was truly an amazing wine! I admit, before leaving Garlemald, I was worried the outlands' vintages would not agree with my palate, but oh, how I was wrong!
Not only was the rosé one of the best I've had during my time here, it is one of the best I've had...well, ever! I simply had to have more so...
...I went and purchased an entire crate of the stuff! Ah hah hah hah!
Hancock: And I gave him quite a deal, I might add. Which was not easy, seeing as there is great demand for bottles of Suhd Viandja throughout the Three Great Continents.
Wandering Dramaturge: I shall reserve my judgment on the verity of Hancock's "deal," but even were the price double, it would have been more than worth it.
Fortunately, I recently sold an entire collection of my works to a little playhouse on Kogane Dori─the Mujikoza, I believe they called themselves (these Hingan words leave my tongue in knots)─and scored myself a tidy profit.
Hancock: Hm? The price of a single bottle more than a house in Mist, you say? Hah! More than a birdhouse, I suppose.
Oh, you were serious. Well, then, I can inform you that is most definitely not the case. Even during shortages, I've never had to ask more than, say, twenty or thirty thousand gil a bottle. Forty if the buyer was wearing silks.
You say Master Gegeruju provided you with this misinformation, did he?
Why, the conniving devil! Well played, you lecherous Lalafell, you! I mean...that is terrible! What a terrible thing for him to do.
Wait... Was that "Dalmascan" wine we "procured" for Master Gegeruju some moons ago in exchange for one of his bottles of Suhd Viandja?
Wandering Dramaturge: Do I...uh...want to know about this, Hancock?
Hancock: Probably not, but I shall enlighten you anyway...
Wandering Dramaturge: It sounds like you and Hancock make quite the cunning devils, Forename. Still, I do feel somewhat responsible for this whole mess...
As an apology, might I offer you a bottle of...vintage Suhd Viandja?
No, of course not. Ahem. Then, what would you say to a bottle of Dalmascan? You could exchange it with the bottle you gave this Master Gegeruju and absolve yourself of all wrongdoing and whatnot.
Ah, now you are probably wondering where one might find a bottle of genuine Dalmascan red, considering the hells you had to negotiate simply to find an empty bottle. Well that, my distrustful friend, is where Hancock comes in.
Hancock: I do? Oh, yes...ahem, I do. And I just so happen to have a bottle of Dalmascan wine on my person this very moment! Three, in fact!
And why do I carry bottles of the rarest wine in Othard on my person, you ask? I...er...am not at liberty to say.
...If you must know, I acquired them from one of my acquaintances in Rabanastre... Bah! All right, all right! I purchased them from Lady Fran.
Wandering Dramaturge: Think of it this way, Forename. If you hadn't saved the world from Ultima's bane, the High Seraph would most definitely have destroyed all that wine in the monastery simply out of spite. Meaning, you're entitled to at least those three.
And, if you so desire, you can take one of those bottles back to Costa del Sol and set things right.
Though, something tells me Master Gegeruju won't take kindly to you waltzing into his manor and demanding he exchange bottles for no apparent reason... Hm... Perhaps you might enlist the aid of that vintner from Wineport. What was his name again? Shamwow...Shamon...Shamani! Shamani Lohmani!
Shamani Lohmani: Wait─did you just say you have in your possession a bottle of genuine Dalmascan red? By the Twelve, wherever did you find it!?
Amazing... Simply amazing. And is it safe to assume you are here to right a past wrong─one involving a fancy bottle full of falsehoods and fabrications?
Well, I am more than willing to help you sort out this sordid mess. If I had said something back when I learned you would be trading a bottle of Valens for mere Suhd Viandja, none of us would be in this position in the first place.
I shall accompany you to Master Gegeruju's seaside manor and explain to the man that the bottle you gave him had not been stored properly, and that we have come to exchange it with one that has. He is certain to believe the claim coming from me, his most trusted supplier.
Wandering Dramaturge: Think of it this way, Forename. If you hadn't saved the world from Ultima's bane, the High Seraph would most definitely have destroyed all that wine in the monastery, simply out of spite. Meaning, you're entitled to at least those three.
And, if you so desire, you can take one of those bottles back to Costa del Sol and set things right.
Though, something tells me Master Gegeruju won't take kindly to you waltzing into his manor and demanding he exchange bottles for no apparent reason... Hm... Perhaps you might enlist the aid of that vintner from Wineport. What was his name again? Shamwow...Shamon...Shamani! Shamani Lohmani!
Shamani Lohmani: All's well that ends well, I suppose. The important thing is that we exchanged the bottles. Now, as to how this is all going to affect my future dealings with Master Gegeruju...you let me worry about that.
What's this? A second bottle of Lea Monde? For me? You know I cannot accept such a gift!
There are literally thousands more where this came from? Well, if that is the case, I suppose I can.
Shamani Lohmani: Thank you again for the wonderful gift. As a distributor of fine wines, rarely am I allowed the luxury of partaking in mine own supply. I shall truly enjoy this exception.
Perhaps I will even allow old Byrglaent a glass... Half a glass. Here's to hoping it will inspire his winery to even greater heights.
Hm? Is that another bottle I see there sticking its cork from your pack? Gods, those things truly are bottomless, aren't they!?
Well, as happy as I would be to take it off your hands, I believe there is another far more deserving than I. You'll find poor Drest where he always is...
Wandering Dramaturge: Think of it this way, Forename. If you hadn't saved the world from Ultima's bane, the High Seraph would most definitely have destroyed all that wine in the monastery, simply out of spite. Meaning, you're entitled to at least those three.
And, if you so desire, you can take one of those bottles back to Costa del Sol and set things right.
Though, something tells me Master Gegeruju won't take kindly to you waltzing into his manor and demanding he exchange bottles for no apparent reason... Hm... Perhaps you might enlist the aid of that vintner from Wineport. What was his name again? Shamwow...Shamon...Shamani! Shamani Lohmani!
Drest: Why have you come back? There is nothing for you here... There is nothing for any of us...
That bottle... Where did you─?
The scent... Home...
Drest: I'm sorry... I just... I don't deserve this.
'Twas my wife... My wife who...always saved the corks.
Do you think she'd...she'd forgive me? If I told her I wasn't coming back...
Would my brothers-in-arms? Would they allow me this...this respite...?
Maybe it is time I asked them. They'll all be here soon... Just like they are every night. But tonight, I'll have brought them something...
Thank you, friend. Thank you...
Shamani Lohmani: Hopefully the bottle can provide Drest with even a moment's respite.
Wandering Dramaturge: Think of it this way, Forename. If you hadn't saved the world from Ultima's bane, the High Seraph would most definitely have destroyed all that wine in the monastery, simply out of spite. Meaning, you're entitled to at least those three.
And, if you so desire, you can take one of those bottles back to Costa del Sol and set things right.
Though, something tells me Master Gegeruju won't take kindly to you waltzing into his manor and demanding he exchange bottles for no apparent reason... Hm... Perhaps you might enlist the aid of that vintner from Wineport. What was his name again? Shamwow...Shamon...Shamani! Shamani Lohmani!
Wandering Dramaturge: You're back! And, my, far quicker than last time. Everything off with nary a hitch then, I presume.
That is truly, truly wonderful to hear...and I'm not simply saying that because there's been this nagging in my gut that's followed me since I asked you to fetch me some wine that fateful day.
Please accept this as a token of my gratitude. I've been told you adventuring types fet─er, collect them, as well.
Drest: Thank you, friend. The scents of home are not as frightening as I imagined they'd be...
Shamani Lohmani: Hopefully the bottle can provide Drest with even a moment's respite.
Galiena: Forename Surname─of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, if I'm not mistaken?
Very good. I've a message for you from Aunt Rowena. Well, it's more of a request, I suppose, though I don't have any details of consequence...
She'd like you to assist with the exploration of a recently discovered island. Surely you'd be interested in that sort of thing, being an adventurer?
If you are, then you should head to Kugane and see Kotokaze, the proprietress of the Shiokaze Hostelry. It's a long way to go, I know, but the island's out that way anyway, so...
Kotokaze: I see you decided to accept the invitation of the House of Splendors. Rowena will be pleased. Come─I will show you to your table.
Rowena: It's good to see a familiar face in these parts─particularly that o' the man who might well be my most valued customer.
Hancock: I gather you were not expecting Krile or myself to be attending this little tête-à-tête. As you will see, however, this is a matter which concerns us all.
It all began when a vessel of the East Aldenard Trading Company happened upon an island in the Glass Ocean. A deserted island which was not recorded on our charts and, quite frankly, had no business being there.
Suffice it to say, we were surprised. Pleasantly so, in fact. An unclaimed, undeveloped island in such a location would be a boon to our trading concerns in this corner of the world.
Rowena: Kugane's bleedin' us both dry with its tariffs. Dependin' on the goods, we're paying more than ten times what we'd owe in Limsa or Ul'dah─which is already too damn much, believe you me.
Hancock: What my dear Rowena is trying to say is that having an additional port of call in this region─one more amenable to free trade─would be in the best interests of a great many parties.
Which is why, upon learning of this island, I immediately authorized an exploratory expedition. The team was large and well-funded─I spared no expense. Alas, only a handful returned.
The Surnames reported "irregularities" with the island's aether, which we believe gave rise to a number of strange and monstrous beasts─beasts which set upon them not long after they arrived.
This regrettable turn of events forced us to reevaluate our assessment of the island and put our plans on hold for a time. If development was to proceed, it would require a great deal more capital than originally anticipated...
Rowena: So he came to me and mine for a handout, and I obliged. But before you scoff, know that some of my regular customers were members o' that failed expedition, and what they told me was enough to justify the expense.
Tales o' treasure, of untold wealth and riches and gods know what else. Aye, we'll have to wade through all 'em beasties, but with great risk comes great reward, as they say.
Hancock: Spoken like a born entrepreneur! Your ambition and ruthlessness are admirable, my lady. I daresay I could stand to learn a thing or two from you.
...In any event, having formed our partnership, we wish to dispatch a second joint expeditionary force to the island. That said, if we were to send just anyone, their fate is like to be the same as that of the first.
Rowena: So this time, we've a mind to send a dab hand. A veteran of a thousand thousand battles. A tried and true killer. You see where I'm goin' with this?
Krile: While I lack your aptitude for warcraft, I will be joining the expedition as a researcher. The Scions have an interest in this island─
...How perceptive of you. You are right─this is not the sort of affair that would normally concern us. However, after speaking with the others, they have consented to my participation, on account of my personal interest...
You will forgive me if I say no more at this time. If my suspicions prove true, then I will tell you everything. I promise.
Hancock: Right, then. I believe that covers everything! The company ship that will deliver you to the island is waiting to receive you. You may proceed to the pier whenever you are ready to depart.
Rowena: Oh, and so you're not surprised─you'll have company. A craftsman whose help I reckoned we ought to have. He should be at the pier already.
Krile: Rowena and I still have a few things to discuss, so why don't you go on ahead? I'll catch up to you later.
Gerolt: ...And no matter how many times you say it, ye whiny little shite, I ain't about to let a bloody stranger waltz up and deign to tell me which way my bread is buttered! Now piss off!
Incorrigible Youth: Does your Eorzean stubbornness know no end!? I have urgent business on that island, and I demand you take me there at once!
Krile: I could hear the shouting half a malm away...
Gerolt, what is all the fuss about?
Gerolt: Oh, Miss Krile. Sorry about that. It's this here bastard what's causing trouble.
Krile: Ejika!? What are you doing here?
Ejika Tsunjika: Did you really think I wouldn't find out about your letter? The nerve of you, trying to get a head start on your own! Well─sorry to spoil your plans.
Krile: Don't be difficult. I had every intention of requesting your assistance if and when I confirmed my hypothesis was correct...
Forgive me. You must be completely at a loss.
This gentleman on the right is─ Wait, you already know each other, do you not? Well, as you may have guessed, Gerolt will be lending his considerable expertise to our expedition.
And on the left, we have─
Ejika Tsunjika: Ejika Tsunjika, of the Students of Baldesion. And you must be the so-called Warrior of Light. Charmed, I'm sure. I'll thank you not to get underfoot.
Krile: Manners, Ejika! If you intend to accompany us on this expedition─
Ejika Tsunjika: Of course I do! If you think I'm about to let a by-the-book traditionalist like you conduct an independent investigation, you've got another think coming!
Krile: ...I should be glad to welcome the assistance of a preeminent scholar such as yourself. Now, if you would be so kind as to stop badgering poor Gerolt and board the ship, we can get underway.
Ejika is one of the few surviving Students of Baldesion. While his expertise in aetherology is impressive by any measure, alas, so is his ego...
But enough about him! We have an island to explore! If you've no matters left to attend to, speak with Rodney. He will show you aboard.
Hmm... It occurs to me that no one bothered to tell you the name of the island we mean to explore. Am I correct?
It's a bit grandiose and melodramatic, but we've tentatively named it for a place from Allagan legend. A forbidden land where fearsome weapons were hidden away for safekeeping...
We call it...Eureka.
Keiten: Milord! My, what auspicious timing. I intended to send a missive to the Rising Stones, but it seems that is no longer necessary.
Master Hancock wishes to speak with you regarding a matter of grave import. I can but imagine what other duties yet demand your attention. Still, he would request you meet him at the Ruby Bazaar at your earliest convenience.
Master Hancock requests your presence at the Ruby Bazaar at your earliest convenience. Though he would not elaborate, it seems to be a rather pressing matter.
Hancock: And so he returns at last. From what Tataru has told me, you've come rather a long way, to put it mildly.
And while the Scions remained locked in slumber, she sought aid from all corners of the realm. In fact, it was I to whom she first turned when searching for a champion to assist her in your absence.
Though as you have no doubt surmised, I did not call you here to discuss such matters.
I have received word from Lord Hien that the Bozjan resistance, our comrades in the Eastern alliance, seek the aid of distinguished heroes in their fight against the Empire, and naturally, your name immediately sprang to mind.
What will you say?
The Bozjan resistance, you say?
Hancock: Indeed, from a small nation found in the southern reaches of Ilsabard, to the west of Dalmasca. They were no doubt among the first to fall to the Empire.
Yet it would seem their hearts have yet to give way to despair. And with the Empire now in disarray, they would seize the opportunity to fight back.
I didn't realize they were part of the Eastern alliance.
Hancock: Indeed. Though the city-state has long since fallen to Garlean machinations, the remnants have agreed to join the cause.
And with the Empire now in disarray, they would seize the opportunity to fight back.
Hancock: If you would know the details in full, I think it best you speak with Lord Hien. His endless list of commitments makes him a hard man to find, however, so perhaps you can have one of his attendants at the House of the Fierce track him down for you.
Those at the House of the Fierce familiar with Lord Hien's busy schedule may be able to help locate him.
Doman Attendant: Greetings, good sir. Lord Hien has been expecting you.
When word reached us from the Bozjan resistance, Lord Hien knew at once there was but one man to whom he could turn.
He left to the Coattails not long ago─the view of Doma Castle helps to calm his mind. This way, if you please.
Doman Attendant: This way, atop the broken bridge. He will be most glad for your arrival.
Hien: Do you remember when first we shared a view of this castle together? Still under the Garleans' control, perhaps, yet for all their wickedness, its beauty would not be so easily sullied.
It is good to see you, my friend. You must forgive me for forgoing pleasantries, but our guest here is in dire need of your help.
Marsak: Marsak, of the Bozjan resistance. A pleasure to make your acquaintance.
As you have no doubt already heard from Lord Hien, my people seek to reclaim our homeland from the Empire.
Under his auspices, and that of the Eorzean Alliance, we aim to do just that.
Hien: However, we recently received word that the IVth Imperial Legion has been making plans of their own.
Marsak: It has long held the provinces of Nagxia, Dalmasca, and Bozja in an iron grip, using its Dalmascan headquarters to house the bulk of its forces.
Until recently, that is.
They appear to be diverting resources and manpower to their forces stationed in Bozja. In fact, three battalions are en route as we speak.
We thought perhaps to strike before they can fully assemble, but the Bozjan resistance lacks the means to drive them off on its own.
Hien: Aid from the Dalmascan resistance groups may have sufficed. Sadly, even Fran of Lente's Tears has been unable to bring an end to their infighting.
Marsak: All hope is not lost, however, for Lord Hien has made a most intriguing proposal.
Hien: An idea not my own, I must confess. We have our old friend Gosetsu to thank.
As the Empire tightened its grip on Doma, our people were at a crossroads. Would they lay down and surrender, or stand up and fight?
You sought me out, that I could become the spark that lit the fire of rebellion.
The same must be done for the Bozjans.
They require a standard under which they can rally. A symbol of hope to steel them for what is to come.
Marsak: Lacking a living figurehead such as Lord Hien, my comrades and I looked to our nation's past for inspiration. There, we found the answer we sought: Gunnhildr's Blades.
They were the elite guard of Queen Gunnhildr, possessed of weapons blessed by the gods. Their exploits would become legend after defending our peoples against the Allagans in the Third Astral Era.
The strength of their steel was matched only by their dedication to the queen. Should one lose their life in her service, their holy blade was then passed on to a successor.
In time, their title would lend itself to the most renowned of their weaponry─the gunblade. But in truth, each member of her guard was master of a unique weapon.
Though these sacred relics have been lost to time, I would see them forged anew! Armed thus, our people would know no fear, and drive back our oppressors just as Queen Gunnhildr did the Allagans.
An admittedly lofty and otherwise unattainable goal for one such as I. Which is why I have traveled far and wide in search of great minds and greater heroes who might lend us their aid. We would be honored to have one of your renown at our side.
Hien: We value the Bozjans' commitment to the cause, and I would see their plans come to fruition.
Unfortunately, duty demands that I remain here. I could not in good conscience leave knowing the Empire yet threatens the border to Ala Mhigo. Should you choose to accompany him to Bozja, might I ask you also act as a representative of the Eastern alliance in my stead?
What will you say?
Leave it to me.
I'll do what I can.
Hien: Thank you, my friend. If there is aught else you require of the Eastern alliance, you need only ask. Safe travels to you both.
Marsak: An airship to our base has been prepared for us at the enclave's dock. I hope to see you there soon.
Mehdjina: Ah, Forename! You couldn't have come at a better time. Do you have a moment to talk?
My thanks. You see, a foreign merchant approached the boutique with a proposal not long ago.
Mehdjina: Hancock, of the East Aldenard Trading Company. Perhaps you've heard of him?
Ah, so you have a history! No wonder Mistress Tataru declared him unscrupulous and deserving of infinite caution.
Though there is risk in dealing with a man of such flexible principles, his knowledge of the Hingan markets would do much to bolster our efforts to make inroads in the Far East.
That is why, despite her misgivings, Mistress Tataru seeks to negotiate a partnership. But for some reason or another, he has requested you be present at their meeting in Kugane.
I realize business negotiations are not your forte, but we would be most grateful if you'd indulge his request.
Of course, there is also the matter of our secret mission...
Mehdjina: Once it has been fully restored, this gorgeous sapphire will serve as the centerpiece of Mistress Tataru's necklace. I hope that one day she may look upon it as a memento of not only her mother, but of her many dear friends and allies.
Perhaps during your visit to Kugane, fortune shall favor us with the discovery of an additional treasure to grace her keepsake.
In any case, I believe that covers everything.
Mistress Tataru shall meet you at the Ruby Bazaar in Kugane. I wish you a safe journey.
Tataru: Forename, I'm so glad you could make it!
Hancock: I am equally thrilled by your arrival, though I expect I must apologize for the sudden invitation.
Tataru: Yes, you should. But more importantly, I'd like to know what the scheme is and how you intend to involve us.
Hancock: Oh my, so quick to assume the worst!
While I would love nothing more than lay bare all my dirty little secrets, 'twould be prudent to discuss my proposal first.
Hancock: Loath though I am to admit it, a draper shop but recently launched by the company has not been well received by the locals.
Our intention was to promote the sale of imported apparel woven by the Ul'dahn Weavers' Guild. Alas, it seems Western fashion holds little appeal for the citizens of Kugane.
So we rethought our strategy─we would produce Hingan couture, but with world-renowned Ul'dahn silks. Kimono, as they are the favored choice of wear in the Far East.
Or rather, that was our plan, until our seamster fell ill.
It was as I faced the unpleasant decision of abandoning this venture entirely that I chanced to hear of Tataru's boutique─and the assorted Far Eastern-styled equipment they had on offer.
Tataru: You are referring to our samurai and ninja-inspired sets of armor, yes?
Hancock: Indeed. By putting your exemplary goods on display, the East Aldenard Trading Company would demonstrate that we, a Western trader, are capable of making garments suited to the needs of our local patrons.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I have been informed that you wish to establish a foothold in Hingashi and East Othard.
What better way to make your Kugane debut than to have us showcase your quality wares?
Tataru: ...It's not without its appeal, I admit. The perfect venue to gauge interest in our goods.
Hancock: Isn't it just? If I may take your grudging concession as a sign of interest, perhaps we can discuss the finer points of my proposed partnership.
Tataru: Oh, we'll be discussing it at length. But I've yet to see how any of this would require Forename's involvement.
Hancock: Indeed, I was just about to get to that part...
Hancock: Not long ago, I crossed paths with a group of certain someones who were eager to call on Forename again.
I found myself quite taken with them, charming as they were, that I felt compelled to facilitate this reunion. And of course, one can never collect too many favors.
Alas, I know that you are predisposed to question the motives behind any invitation from the East Aldenard Trading Company─and with good cause, I concede. So I instead invited you here under the guise of assisting Tataru with a boutique-related affair.
I hope you will forgive the deception. Rest assured that you shall be rewarded for your aid in this matter with your choice of recompense.
Just before your arrival, I took the liberty of informing my new acquaintances that you would soon be making landfall on these shores. They ask that you meet them at Sakazuki in the Ruby Sea, as soon as you are able.
I believe it is a matter of some urgency, so if you could travel there forthwith...
Excellent. I leave them in your capable hands.
Tataru: Don't worry─I'm no stranger to Hancock's tricks. I'll make sure not to agree to anything until we've settled every last detail. Just do what you need to do, and return when you can.
Hancock: If you are looking for Tataru, she stepped away but moments ago. Fret not─I'm sure she will have returned by the time you've attended to the matter we discussed.
Soroban: Apologies, Forename. I pray you have not been waiting long.
You look surprised. Did Hancock not tell you who requested your aid? Ah, but never mind that. I am simply glad that you are here.
How have I been? Well, my training as the next Genbu continues apace. I must tell you, my friend, each day has been more trying than the last...
Why, just the other day, the auspices placed ninety-nine wasabi–filled tako–yaki on a platter before me, and instructed me to divine which single ball out of the entire batch was not filled with that dreadful spice!
"Training to sharpen my foresight," they claimed, but it felt more akin to torture. By the end I was reduced to a dithering sea turtle, swimming in a puddle of my own tears.
That is all to say, I am only marginally closer to assuming my place as one of the Four Lords.
Genbu: Bah, get to the point already, Soroban!
Soroban: Gah! I was just about to arrive at it!
Ahem. Come, my friends! Show yourselves!
Byakko: It has been some time, Forename.
Suzaku: I am relieved to see you in good health. I understand you have been through a great deal.
Seiryu: Your concern is unwarranted. This is the man who quelled our aramitama and inherited Tenzen's legacy. There is no trial he cannot overcome.
Suzaku: You misunderstand me, my brother. That, or you deliberately insinuate that I lack faith in Forename's capabilities.
Byakko: Enough. We indebted ourselves to the merchant to obtain this meeting. Let us not distract ourselves with this nonsense and get to the heart of the matter.
Seiryu: ...Very well. You may not know this, but Senri's craving for dango often brings her to Kugane. It was during such a visit that she spied a suspicious individual on Kogane Dori.
A man who not only wore raiments identical to Tenzen's, but who also claimed to be his long-lost descendant.
Byakko: This "descendant" was selling good-luck charms utterly devoid of benediction. His ploy is plain: he uses Tenzen's name to trick fools into buying his rubbish.
Suzaku: Any who would dare sully Tenzen's name shall face my wrath. My flames will cleanse him of his sin and burn his soul to ash!
Seiryu: Too merciful a punishment, I say. I shall personally render unto him every pain imaginable!
Soroban: By the kami, is it possible they have both succumbed to the aramitama once more...?
Genbu: Ahem. The charlatan boasts of more than an esteemed heritage. He also claims to have the Four Lords at his beck and call.
Insulting, yes, but I would still rather resolve this without flames and torture. But having lived apart from men for so long, I fear we may be ill-equipped to do so on our own. Hence why we have turned to you for assistance.
You needn't agree to anything just yet, but why don't we all at least seek out this descendant and take his measure ourselves?
Soroban: I beg your pardon? Putting myself aside, the three of you approaching any settlement─let alone one as large as Kugane─would surely cause an uproar.
Byakko: Calm yourself, Soroban. You forget we are the Four Lords. 'Tis a trifling matter to assume a less conspicuous guise.
Seiryu: Let us reconvene in Kugane. Soroban is to go first, while we three shall make our own approach separately to avoid attracting undue attention─just in case.
Suzaku: Long has it been since I walked the streets of a city of this size. I did so once to visit a teahouse with Tenzen.
I accompanied him in disguise. How my heart raced at the thrill and joy of it...until a priest saw through my glamour. Oh, the commotion that followed...
Seiryu: We met Hancock by pure chance. Recognizing us as the auspices of legend, he said he wished to help us out of the kindness of his heart. I almost believed him.
Byakko: Do not think I haven't noticed you eyeing my costume. If you must know, I acquired it during my travels in the West. I am rather fond of its soft and fluffy texture.
Soroban: It would seem we have managed to arrive with little fuss.
...But only the kami know how long our presence will remain secret.
Seiryu: Again with the needless worrying. Our disguises are perfect.
Soroban: None may suspect you are the Four Lords at first glance, but you are suspicious in the extreme.
Byakko: We could have used our power to assume the form of men, but those of keen sight would still be able to discern our true nature. The costumes were an innocuous alternative.
Soroban: There's nothing innocuous about them!
Suzaku: Senri said she found the swindler on Kogane Dori, yes? Let us head there at once.
(Long quest text was cut, skipped to end of quest)
Byakko: This is far enough. It is past time we returned home.
Seiryu: We are once more in your debt.
Suzaku: It is because of you that this affair could be concluded before Tenzen's reputation suffered irreparable harm. Thank you, Forename.
Byakko: Now that you are no longer bound to Kageyama, what will you do?
Isshu: Well... I know I must take responsibility for my actions. I will confess my crimes to the Sekiseigumi.
After I am released from my imprisonment...I shall take up an honest trade once more, and not rest until I have repaid each and every victim of my deception.
Soroban: Ah yes, I had been meaning to tell you... But I will let Hancock explain when he arrives shortly.
Hancock: Dreadfully sorry to have kept you all waiting.
Soroban: Ah, speak of the devil!
Genbu: And the urchin girl came as well. It has been far too long.
Tataru: You're looking green as ever, Soroban of the Blue! And once again, Genbu, that's Tataru! Ta-ta-ru! Though I'm sure I'll have to remind you next time, too.
Hancock: You are Isshu, the seamster Soroban spoke of, yes?
If it is gainful employment you seek, the East Aldenard Trading Company would be thrilled to hire one of your expertise to work at our draper shop.
The seamster in our service fell ill, and we've been looking for a replacement.
Isshu: I-I have no words! I am grateful, truly... But I cannot accept, for once I confess my crimes to the Sekiseigumi, they will surely imprison me for a time.
Hancock: Ah, yes, the Sekiseigumi. I had a chat with them not long ago. They are aware that the scheme was contrived by Kageyama, and that you too are one of his victims. You will be required to assist them in their investigation, of course, but you needn't steel yourself for even a brief incarceration.
Seiryu: Hancock. You have our thanks for calling Forename to our aid.
Hancock: Oh no, not at all. I am pleased to have been of service.
I have not forgotten our arrangement, Forename. Have you decided upon a reward?
Oh, how that warms the heart! A material to help restore the keepsake of a dear friend...
I have just the thing. I won't spoil the surprise now, but do look forward to it.
Tataru: I suppose we had better return to the city. But before that...
Tataru: You could've called upon me too, you know! It's not like I wasn't part of the whole "saving the Ruby Sea from becoming consumed by roaring flames" endeavor or anything!
Genbu: Ohohoho, forgive us, urchin gir─ahem. Tataru. We assumed you were busy. That, and you did struggle mightily to help Forename restrain Soroban that one time, so there was some concern that you might prove a liability should it come to blows. Nevertheless, we will take your words to heart.
Byakko: Perhaps we should assume our guises and walk among men more often. It was a refreshing change of pace, on the whole.
Seiryu: I would not be against it. We were in a bit of a rush on this occasion, but with a longer visit, we might better appreciate men's curious ways.
Suzaku: I have no doubt we shall meet again. I but pray that the time comes sooner than later.
Tataru: You and me both!
What will you say?
Until that day.
Seiryu: I will consider that a promise.
I'll be sure to stop by the temple later.
Suzaku: You know you are always welcome. The others would be thrilled to see you and Tataru both.
Seiryu: Now then, I say we resume Soroban's training upon our return to the temple.
Soroban: Erm, must we so soon?
Genbu: You did well to apprise Hancock of Isshu's predicament. He may now make amends by putting his talents to good use, and continue to provide for his family.
Suzaku: Indeed. 'Twas behavior befitting one destined to become the next Genbu.
Byakko: The road ahead is long, but we doubt not that you are worthy. And so we want only to encourage you to reach your full potential.
Soroban: If that is how you all feel, then I have little choice but to do my best.
Isshu: I can still hardly believe the Sekiseigumi only wished to question me... Master Hancock must have a way with words. Speaking of which, I believe he and Mistress Tataru will be joining us shortly.
Hancock: Isshu, you will be pleased to know that I've just finished making arrangements for your immediate employment. May our profits soar that you may give your family the life they deserve!
Isshu: M-Master Hancock...I do not deserve such kindness. I will do my best to earn my keep.
I want you to know that I intend to work hard to make up for the many mistakes that I've made.
It is not much, but I have prepared a gift for you as an expression of my gratitude. A set of garments that I made before I was embroiled in Master Kageyama's schemes. The lords and ladies of Kugane once held my work in high regard, and I hope you will as well.
Hancock: You will also find a little something from me included within. A well-deserved reward.
Tataru: Wait, what exactly did you give Forename?
Hancock: Payment for introducing the East Aldenard Trading Company to prospective new clients, what else?
Tataru: I can't say I'm surprised you would try to peddle goods to the Four Lords themselves, but still─have you no shame?
Regardless, now's as good a time as any to inform Forename of the result of our deliberations.
Said result being, we have agreed to an official partnership with the East Aldenard Trading Company. One which I will exploit for all it's worth to make Tataru Taru's Boutique a household name in Kugane!
Hancock: Ahaha! For my part, I pray this is the start of a mutually beneficial partnership.
Tataru: To business. I would have a tour of this draper shop of yours immediately, if you don't mind.
Sorry to cut things short, Forename, but time is money, and I have precious little to spare. Once you've seen to any other unresolved matters you have here, I'd be grateful if you'd return to Old Sharlayan and inform Mehdjina of our new arrangement.
Mehdjina: Welcome back! Negotiations with Master Hancock were fruitful, I hope?
Well! I expected nothing less from you and Mistress Tataru!
As for Mistress Tataru's necklace─you say Master Hancock slipped a gift into the parcel you received from Isshu, yes? May I have a look?
My goodness, what a stunning set of garments! They certainly offer a taste of the Far East.
As for the item Master Hancock set aside for Mistress Tataru's necklace...
By the Sisters...black pearls! Do you have any idea how rare these are? They can only be harvested from blacklip oysters in the Ruby Sea!
I cannot be certain until they have been incorporated into the necklace, but I believe the darker shade will serve as contrast to the brilliant sapphire centerpiece, and make it stand out even more.
To part with such precious treasures─Master Hancock is either very wealthy or very well-connected. Or both. We would do well to maintain a good relationship with the East Aldenard Trading Company.
But that is the boutique's concern. After all you have done for us, I am sure you want nothing more than a good rest. Thank you again for your continued assistance!
When next we discover a client we'd like to add to our ever-growing list, I hope we can count on your assistance once more!
Shallow Moor: Your timing is impeccable, Forename! How do you manage to do that?
An intriguing job has been laid at our feet, and the client insists you be the one to take it up.
That client? Why, none other than the East Aldenard Trading Company!
The missive was dispatched from the Kugane branch rather than Lord Lolorito's offices, but it nevertheless carries the piquant scent of moneyed interests. Care to give it a read?
Hancock:
Dear Forename,
In the selfsame spirit of friendship which has defined our every interaction to date, it is my pleasure to extend to you a humble invitation.
'Tis because of your endearing efforts to save this star that we may benefit from this rarest of opportunities, for it was in service to your noble quest to build the good ship Ragnarok that I was able to forge a fruitful bond between myself and another of Hingashi's elites.
This lord has seen fit to grant me─and a guest of my choosing─leave to go where few ijin have tread: beyond the bounds of Kugane, to the sacred slopes of Mount Rokkon itself.
I cannot overstate the significance of this gesture, nor the allure of sights heretofore unseen by Western eyes. Nor is it an exaggeration to say that no one is more deserving of this boon than your magnanimous self.
I eagerly await our reunion at the gates of the Bokairo Inn.
Ever your faithful servant,
- Hancock Fitzgerald
What will you say?
Seems there's a holy mountain in Hingashi that needs climbing.
Shallow Moor: Never thought the Hingans would crack open those gates. Gil talks, that's for damned sure...
There's flattery, and then there's...this.
Shallow Moor: Laid it on a bit thick, did he? I'd expect no less of a consummate merchant. Not too proud to debase himself when sufficient profit's at stake.
Still, there may be a crumb of sincerity beneath that slathering of honeyed words. And if not, you still stand to benefit from playing along.
You'll be heading to Kugane then, I take it?
Perfect! I'll send word that you're on your way.
Fair fortune and safe travels! You'd best come back with plenty of stories to tell, you hear?
If An Auspicious Opportunity is Incomplete
Hancock: Ah, my dear Forename. It gladdens me to see you returned to eastern shores.
As you can see, preparations for our journey are well underway. Partial though I am to the traditional Hingan kimono, if we are to climb a mountain, 'twould be prudent to do so in comfort as well as style.
But I presume you would rather discuss matters of greater import than my attire. Fear not─my capable associates are ready and eager to brief you on the challenge ahead.
We have reserved the finest chambers of the inn for the occasion, so let us reconvene away from all the hustle and bustle, shall we?
If completed An Auspicious Opportunity
Hancock: Ah, my dear Forename. Who would have thought that the Spinner would see us reunited so soon? You will be pleased to hear that no other charlatans have attempted to masquerade as Tenzen's progeny in the interim.
As you can see, preparations for our journey are well underway. Partial though I am to the traditional Hingan kimono, if we are to climb a mountain, 'twould be prudent to do so in comfort as well as style.
But I presume you would rather discuss matters of greater import than my attire. Fear not─my capable associates are ready and eager to brief you on the challenge ahead.
We have reserved the finest chambers of the inn for the occasion, so let us reconvene away from all the hustle and bustle, shall we?
Tsubaki: Master Hancock, Mistress Forename, we are most grateful for your aid in this matter. I am Tsubaki, and my onmyoji companion is called Tokimori.
We are come to Kugane on behalf of Lord Uzumibi, who presides over Mount Rokkon and the surrounding lands.
Hancock: His lordship is the one I mentioned in my missive. Hearing of my interest in Far Eastern treasures, he knew at once that I would find the lure of the sacred peak irresistible.
Ah, but I forget that you are not as familiar with these lands as I. Let us begin with the basics, and expound upon the finer points as we go.
To orient our destination in your mind's eye, we must first review Hingashi's geography.
Of the many islands which comprise this nation, it is here, on the western coast of Shishu, where Kugane serves as our shining beacon of commerce.
Mount Rokkon, meanwhile, can be found far from our beloved city of trade...
...Here, in the northeastern corner of the isle.
Upon the slopes of the sacred mountain sits Shojo Temple, a monastery where monks gathered to train their bodies and souls.
Alas, in defiance of this holy purpose, a horde of otherworldly demons have claimed the temple as their own.
His lordship suspects that a collection of accursed treasures is to blame for this infestation. In the Far East, you see, 'tis believed that well-preserved objects may come to possess living souls after a time. These vessels-turned-kami are known as tsukumogami.
A tsukumogami in turn may attract─or even beget─other spirits. These mononoke clearly have no regard for the sanctity of the mount, and so Lord Uzumibi desires a swift resolution.
Compassionate soul that I am, I could not bear to stand idly by. But as men of wealth and influence, base altruism is beneath us both, so I offered to aid his lordship in a manner befitting our stations: by brokering a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Simply put, should I find a way to rid the mountain of mononoke, I may lay claim to any accursed treasures that I find. One man's trash is another man's takaramono! (That's Hingan for "treasure," by the by.)
And here, my friend, is where you come in. During our jaunts to the mountain, you will serve as my bodyguard and slay any monstrous mononoke we encounter. In exchange, you shall become one of the blessed few to bear witness to the wonders and terrors of Mount Rokkon! A fair deal, yes?
What will you say?
I've always wanted to explore more of Hingashi!Hancock: That's our Warrior of Light! I knew you wouldn't disappoint.
Collecting accursed treasures sounds like a dangerous pastime...
Hancock: Your concern for my welfare is endearing but unwarranted. Once the spirit has been dispatched, the object it once possessed shall return to its original, soulless form.
Of course, if an object from my prospective collection were to possess me, you are welcome to violently exorcise it─provided my personage remains unharmed! In any event, let us cross that proverbial "hashi" when we come to it.
Hancock: Now that the matter of Forename's participation is settled, might I inquire as to the current owner of these items, Mistress Tsubaki?
Tsubaki: The treasures were brought into the temple at the behest of Gorai, the head monk. Though his disciples doubt not that his intentions were pure, his actions have brought them great misfortune.
Like you, Master Hancock, Gorai was an avid collector of antiques, and claimed that the tsukumogami who dwelled within them ought to be worshipped. Driven by this fervent belief, he purchased all manner of items he deemed worthy of veneration.
But as his collection grew, so too did certain troubling phenomena. An unholy shadow began to loom over the sacred mountain...and under this wicked veil were the mononoke emboldened to break their fetters. Fearing for their lives, the monks had no choice but to flee, their home defiled by demons.
We could not allow the scourge to spread further, and sent our strongest warriors to slay the fiends, but few returned. Knowing that victory could not be attained by our forces alone, my lord bade us employ magicks to contain the threat.
Tokimori is one of the valiant few who returned from the temple. 'Tis thanks to his diligent reports that we know aught of Mount Rokkon's present state.
Tokimori: Our orders were to find Gorai and convince him to part ways with his treasures, but our pleas fell on deaf ears...he was like unto an animal. I suspect any semblance of reason has left him.
Though the seal we placed upon the mountain endures, the mononoke have had ample time to corrupt the souls of those who could not make good their escape. Should you encounter any "survivors," do not show them a modicum of mercy─'tis too late.
Tsubaki: We have prepared our strongest falcons. Their keeper shall await you by the Bokaisen Hot Springs, and will summon the birds once your preparations are complete. A word of caution: the falcons fear the mononoke and will refuse to fly close to the temple. They shall bring you to the foot of the mountain, but no further. Beyond that point, you will have to climb.
Hancock: Many thanks, my friends. Now then─if we are to depart soon, I think it best we feast to our heart's content! One cannot slay demons on an empty stomach!
Tokimori: Mount Rokkon is rife with dangers. Do not underestimate your enemies.
Shishu Falconer: You are the adventurer who will aid us, I presume? 'Tis an honor and a privilege. My birds shall deliver you to Mount Rokkon's base─go well, my friend, and may the kami keep you.
Tsubaki: My thanks once again for your assistance, Master Forename.
Master Hancock had some business matters to attend to before your expedition. Once you are ready, I shall summon him.
I feel compelled to warn you... Even in times of peace, the climb up Mount Rokkon is not for the faint of heart. I suggest you procure sufficient provisions if you have not yet done so, and ensure that your equipment is in working order.
Tokimori's disciples have been tasked with maintaining the mountain's wards. They will open the way for you upon your arrival.
Speak with our falconer when you wish to depart. Though I must remain here, I shall be praying for your success.
Tokimori: You are returned. Few can slay a great mononoke and live to tell the tale...
Tsubaki: Master Forename... Full glad am I to see you hale and whole.
I espied Master Hancock's falcon in the distance, but its movements appeared awfully erratic. We can but hope they land safely...
Hancock: Terribly sorry to have kept you all waiting! Our souvenir was a tad more cumbersome than I realized, but as you can see, we are none the worse for my misjudgment.
Tsubaki: Indeed you are not, Master Hancock. My lord will be pleased to hear of your return─and your success, I presume?
Hancock: 'Twas Forename's victory as much as my own─but then, I knew a few demons would be no match for a slayer of gods such as he.
Honestly, for all its perils, I found the journey quite invigorating.
1: And the pagoda's architecture was nothing short of divine! A masterpiece wrought from timber of the ancient forest within which it stands─a treasure unto itself.
Gridanian works may possess a similar charm, but even an Ul'dahn such as myself could see that it was in a class of its own.
In any case, the people of Shishu can rest easy, knowing a great mononoke has been consigned to oblivion.
...But we, my friend, have malms to go before we sleep!
There were several paths we eschewed, were there not? The mind races to imagine what other delights we may yet behold...
2: I had high expectations for Shojo Temple, yet it managed to surpass them with ease. I shall not soon forget the silent crowd of statuary, the very picture of divine tranquility. Would that Gorai still had his wits about him, that I could discuss the collection with a fellow expert! Alas, the poor man was too far gone.
In any case, the people of Shishu can rest easy, knowing a great mononoke has been consigned to oblivion.
...But we, my friend, have malms to go before we sleep!There were several paths we eschewed, were there not? The mind races to imagine what other delights we may yet behold...
3: The path was as precarious as we predicted. Inexperienced hiker that I am, I feared I would not reach the peak... Yet my suffering was not in vain. When at last I gazed down upon the sea of fiery foliage, my spirits soared.
Less pleasing to the eye was the beast we encountered at the end of our excursion, though in retrospect, we should have braced for such a surprise, tucked away atop the mountain where unwary pilgrims are unlike to tread.
In any case, the people of Shishu can rest easy, knowing a great mononoke has been consigned to oblivion.
...But we, my friend, have malms to go before we sleep!
There were several paths we eschewed, were there not? The mind races to imagine what other delights we may yet behold...
4: The shrine upon the lake was the embodiment of Hingan beauty. A vision of elegance shrouded by the ephemeral.
A shame that this vision had to be disturbed by the swift and decisive violence Forename brought to bear against the tsukumogami, but such chaos is inescapable when exploring a mountain rife with demons.
In any case, the people of Shishu can rest easy, knowing a great mononoke has been consigned to oblivion.
...But we, my friend, have malms to go before we sleep!
There were several paths we eschewed, were there not? The mind races to imagine what other delights we may yet behold...
5: That the pipe was kept away from the other treasures suggests that the monks were aware of its power to some degree. Even so, they failed to anticipate the potency of its influence.
And the pagoda's architecture was nothing short of divine! A masterpiece wrought from timber of the ancient forest within which it stands─a treasure unto itself.
Gridanian works may possess a similar charm, but even an Ul'dahn such as myself could see that it was in a class of its own.
In any case, the people of Shishu can rest easy, knowing a great mononoke has been consigned to oblivion.
...But we, my friend, have malms to go before we sleep!
There were several paths we eschewed, were there not? The mind races to imagine what other delights we may yet behold...
Tsubaki: Indeed. A number of treasures remain unaccounted for...and the demons are like to linger until their masters are slain.
Hancock: Precisely. But take heart, Mistress Tsubaki, for Forename shall not rest until these villains trouble the smallfolk no longer. He shall sally forth, again and again, until the treasures which drew them thither have been secured─and my new collection is complete!
Alas, time waits for no man, and business for no merchant. I must away, but when next you wish to take Mount Rokkon by storm, you need only say the word!
Before you do, however, you might consider sharing the tale of our exploits with Mistress Shallow Moor. The missive I received indicated a rather strong preference in that regard.
Shallow Moor: I was wondering when you'd be back! How was your adventure in the Far East? Everything go well with Hancock?
I doubt I'd fare well against demons, but I do like the sound of that mountain. Green as far as the eye can see, ripe for the gleaning... Would that I had an assignment like that.
Bah─no need to bemoan my lot in your presence. I suspect Osmon's been awaiting your return more eagerly than I.
Go on and tell him your tales of the mountain. I guarantee you he'll love every word of it!
Tsubaki: Ah, Master Forename. Might I have a moment of your time?
Upon learning that the tsukumogami of the accursed pipe had been slain, Lord Uzumibi dispatched a party of soldiers to survey Mount Rokkon. I am pleased to report that they returned without a single casualty.
My lord and his soldiers learned much from their survey of the temple, and I thought it prudent to share these findings with Master Hancock.
'Twas my expectation that he would be pleased, but his reaction was...rather difficult for me to assess. He also requested that I notify him the moment you arrive. If you would kindly make your way to Rakusui Gardens, I can send word for him to meet you there.
Once your conversation is concluded, pray seek me out here. 'Tis not much, I'm afraid, but I have prepared a reward for your service.
Hancock: Apologies for the sudden summons. You will have heard from Mistress Tsubaki that Lord Uzumibi's men returned safely, their expedition a rousing success...but it is the implications of their findings that I wish to discuss.
Shall we sit? I couldn't possibly allow this perfectly good bench to go to waste.
During their survey of the temple, the soldiers recovered a curious journal. Upon closer inspection, they realized it had belonged to Gorai, who had documented nearly half of his life in meticulous detail.
Born into an impoverished family, young Gorai was cast aside by his parents. He spent his youth as a beggar, struggling to survive on his own until the monks of Shojo Temple welcomed him into their brotherhood.
'Twas these formative hardships that fueled his fixation on wealth as an adult. The security and comfort of these valuable objects promised that which he had long been denied.
I cannot help but sympathize, for his story is, in many respects, a mirror to my own. 'Tis a terrible curse, poverty─one I would not wish upon my worst enemy.
In my youth I eked out a living in the backstreets of Ul'dah, until Chairman Lolorito took me under his wing. Thus did I begin to build my fortune, that I need never again know penury's shame.
In like spirit, Gorai amassed a veritable mountain of treasures, among them his most beloved pipe. It was unique, he wrote, in its power to grant its owner both the most blessed of fortunes─and most calamitous of fates. Perhaps, when he first held it in his hands, it was indeed a blessing unlike any he had ever known.
Alas, his fate speaks for itself...
What will you say?
Might I suggest you part ways with the pipe that may have been his downfall?
Hancock: Ever the sensible one. Gorai and I may have both had a tragic childhood, but I assure you, I have not let mine define me. If needs must, I am more than capable of writing off poor investments. He was a pious man, but greed was his god.
He was a pious man, but greed was his god.
Hancock: A false idol, indeed. I can hardly deny the appeal of wealth─I am a merchant, after all─but nor do I seek to snatch gold from the Traders' balance. Avarice, like all things, has its price.
Hancock: ...'Tis not often that I allow myself to speak of personal matters. Though I suppose if I absolutely must confide in another, it may as well be the Warrior of Light.
Of the many lessons Chairman Lolorito has taught me over the years, there is one tenet that towers above them all: "The value of a gil is what you make of it."
If you invest a hundred gil, you may come to possess two hundred, or even two hundred thousand. But if hoarded in perpetuity or squandered on ephemeral pleasures, your coinpurse may as well be empty.
Too many grow consumed by the pursuit of wealth for the sake of it, forgetting that is merely a means to an end. Wealth without purpose makes poor men of us all.
Consider our much-humbled pipe. As an end in itself, it was the source of much misfortune. Yet as a story, it may serve a nobler purpose.
My humble ambition is to share such treasures with the world, that all might reflect upon their histories. This star has so many stories to tell─stories of myriad peoples and cultures.
If my exhibits inspire others to seek out and learn them, as the ukiyo-e print in the chairman's offices once inspired me, there would be no greater joy.
Cultural─and financial─exchange can thus see us all enriched. Arts and artisans across the star will be driven to create, and their works treated as the cultural treasures they are for generations to come.
Imagine! If ever the opportunity arises to petition your aid in this grand dream of mine once more, I should be glad for your assistance. Until then, my friend, I wish you well.
Once upon a time, there lived a brilliant onmyoji. His enchantments were famed far and wide─yet the man was cursed with a poor memory, and often misplaced the tools he had imbued with such awesome power. Well aware of his foibles, the onmyoji resolved never to let his pieces escape him again, and wrought enchanted strongboxes to safely store them.
This strategy was put to the test when, one evening, a thief attempted to steal his most valuable tools away, boxes and all. Alas, though the vessels faithfully returned to the onmyoji's side, the poor man was distraught to discover that none of the works within had done the same.
Tokimori tells me that several such strongboxes were once present at Shojo Temple. Their magicks inhibited the spiritual powers of the objects sealed within─objects including a bloodthirsty sword and a dogu figurine. I myself managed to claim the box with the aforementioned sword, though the dogu must have been lost in the chaos that claimed the mountain.
While “bloodthirsty sword” rather speaks for itself, I was curious as to why a simple clay figurine should need to be sealed away. It transpires that the dogu, too, is a powerful tool, once used to ensure the temple's sacred trees flourish. Through the simple ritual of bowing before a small shrine and placing the dogu on the altar within, the monks could coax it into enlivening the surrounding greenery. Similarly, disregard for its care may prompt the dogu to wreak havoc on its environs...in which case, it may be best to enshrine any dogu we encounter.
Long ago, in the days when war and strife plagued Hingashi, there lived a man who built his legacy upon a mountain of enemy corpses. Fiercer than a mad tiger, Moko the Restless emerged victorious from every skirmish─but his might would be his undoing.
Fearing that the warrior would rebel against him, Moko's liege lord ordered him slain in the dead of night. The deed was carried out with Moko's own blade, which, having cleanly severed its master's head, soon began to burn red. None could say whether this crimson aura was begat by the warrior's lingering fury or the ire of his victims, but it resisted all efforts to remove it. In a last, desperate attempt to purify the sword, the lord's servants carried it to a sacred peak and plunged it into the holy waters...only for the weapon to devour the font's spiritual energies. From that moment on, any soul who attempted to wield the blade was consumed by murderous rage.
Tokimori claimed that the holy waters in the tale might be found on Mount Rokkon itself, where a lake of particular spiritual power lies concealed. A small shrine allegedly graces its banks, and I cannot help but wonder if treasure hides within. Unfortunately, the path is a closely guarded secret known only to the highest-ranking monks, so we are left to fumble in the dark.
Moko was a warrior of peerless skill: a boon to his allies and a scourge upon his enemies. After his death, his armor was returned to his kin, who would preserve it as a treasured heirloom for generations to come...until one fateful morn.
As the sun bathed the eastern skies in gold, Moko's descendants rose to find the armor not in the storehouse where it had been secured, but on prominent display in the gardens, stained black with cooling blood. Next to it lay the corpse of a man─a would-be thief struck down by a righteous spirit, most were quick to believe. The family, however, was less than certain. Who was to say when Moko might rise again to sate his bloodlust? Thus, though it pained them to do so, they placed the armor in the care of Shojo Temple, hoping that its hallowed halls would bring the restless general some semblance of peace.
Far Eastern folklore speaks of myriad kami, and of the spirits to be found in all things. One may assume this concept arose from the countless strange creatures found on our star: from voidsent to auspices, and soulkin golems to elemental sprites, nature's capacity for oddity is boundless. Was Moko's armor, then, an unusual form of a known entity, or did it truly play host to the soul of the man that once wore it? Whatever the case, we can be certain that its exposure to Mount Rokkon's aether only emboldened─and enlarged─it. I find myself thankful that we did not share in the alleged thief's fate.
Though Hingashi has its fair share of celebrated artisans, few tales stoke the flames of a journeyman's ambition like that of Nanakusa, whose blades in the image of the Four Lords saw him rise from humble village blacksmith to renowned forgemaster. Having been on the business end of the swords representing Suzaku and Seiryu during our confrontation with Moko the Restless, to their fine and fearsome quality I can attest. Though I have not yet had the pleasure of an introduction to the Byakko-inspired Hakutei, it in particular is oft spoken of as a weapon to rival one of the greatest the star has to offer: the Swell.
Following his rise to prominence, Nanakusa established a forge near Mount Rokkon. According to Mistress Tsubaki, many an aspiring smith followed in his footsteps, and northeastern Shishu has become something of a haven for these masters of forge and flame. Naturally, they revere the kami of fire, and celebrate their god by way of various spectacular matsuri. In the most prominent of these─its name roughly translating to the “Festival of Three Lanterns”─local blacksmiths seek to imbue the works of past, present, and future with the fire kami's power through lighting a trio of specially crafted lanterns. Of course, this temporal symbolism is only one aspect of the number three's significance to Far Eastern tradition at large.
Once upon a time, there lived a nameless luthier, who poured his heart and soul into building a beautiful biwa. His efforts were not in vain, for the biwa's craftsmanship was immaculate─so much so that he found he could not bear to see it in the hands of a common bard. Season upon season passed as he searched for a soul befitting the biwa's brilliance.
It was not until the luthier's twilight years that a worthy songstress at last entered his workshop. The young woman played for him a song as breathtaking as the autumn moon, and he gladly entrusted her with his life's work. Her ephemeral ballads would capture hearts across Hingashi─until the eve that the luthier's tale came to an end. Neither she nor the biwa have been seen since, leaving her audience to wonder if she was the tsukumogami of the biwa all along.
I have come to learn that tsukumogami can take many forms. Depending on how they manifest, they might bestow a thousand blessings or a thousand curses upon the world. If a tsukumogami is rumored to reside within a prized vessel, its value rises exponentially...but only should it be as benevolent as the songstress in our tale. Were a treasure possessed of a spirit more malevolent, one would do well to exorcise it ere putting it to market.
Long ago, in a remote village, there lived a devout young woman. Though her fields were barren and her rice stores lay empty, she honored the kami at every opportunity, decorating their shrines with what meager offerings she could until, one fateful evening, a divine being appeared to her in a dream. She awoke the next morning to find a wooden hammer next to her pillow. In offering thanks to the kami that day, she swung her newfound hammer, and where it fell, rice gushed forth from the ground like water.
The gods had saved this woman from hunger and granted her endless wealth, but as time passed, she forgot her humble origins. She grew complacent in her prayers, and lost herself in excess. Eventually, rumors of her extravagance spread across the land, and reached the ears of a wicked oni. He stole the hammer for his own selfish purposes, prying the divine gift from the woman's cold, dead fingers.
As a merchant, my first thought upon hearing this tale was of gil, though one does not require divine intervention to make a profit. I am reminded of my first encounter with Chairman Lolorito on the backstreets of Ul'dah:
“I hear tell that you are not entirely bereft of wit,” he said, placing a heavy sack of coin before me. “Take this gil and double it─I shall return in one day.”
I knew very well who I was dealing with. I turned that profit with pride, handed him two very heavy sacks of gil the next day...and found my fortune, as it were. Had I squandered that coin as the young woman did her own gift, I fear I would have been dogged by much worse than demons.
It was a moonless and cloudy night... A small patrol of samurai was treading a shadowed path when, in the distance, they sighted the warm glow of a lantern. Knowing no honest man would be skulking about at this hour, they approached with caution─to find no man at all, but a single lantern, lying lonely and unattended. With some thought of preventing a fire, one of the samurai reached down to claim it.
In an instant, the samurai were surrounded. A crowd of cold, otherworldly flames hovered just out of arms' reach, as if taunting. Fiendish laughter echoed in the distance, then closer... Yet a mere moment later, the flames disappeared as though nothing had ever transpired. Darkness enveloped the path once again.
There are few in Hingashi who have not heard tales of the bake-chochin. Though these haunting lanterns typically seek only to play tricks on those that wander too close, the ones we encountered on Mount Rokkon clearly had a mind to give chase. According to Tokimori, generations of head monks at Shojo Temple carried a lantern of identical appearance on their nightly strolls, so perhaps the bake-chochin sought merely to protect their masters' home, albeit in a unique way.
The lantern now in my possession bears the following words in Far Eastern calligraphy:
If fortune you seek
Know that our light glows brightest
Within twilight's reach
And 'tis the kami of fire
This celebration entreats
I know not precisely what this poem calls upon its reader to do, but its words occupy my thoughts nonetheless.
Long ago, in a small village in the shadow of Mount Rokkon, there lived a young man. Few were as diligent at harvest time as he─and none so quick to leap into action on the fateful day that screams rang across the fields. Swallowing his fear, he followed the sound to find his neighbors beset by a beast of terrible countenance, its unnatural form proving it the very man-eating monster that had terrorized the people of Shishu for moons. And so, knowing lives would be lost to even a moment's hesitation, the young man lobbed his pitchfork at the creature's exposed belly. It turned tail and ran for the cover of the mountain, howling in pain. Ever since, the village has held a yearly event dedicated to tossing their tools at bundles of straw, in a form of ritual that doubles as useful practice in the event that the kami are slow to respond to future incidents.
Imagine my surprise when, having recovered that fork of legend, I discovered the famed swordsmith Nanakusa's mark upon it. Two histories for the price of one! I suppose all artisans must pay their dues, be it in humble pitchforks or those kettles that Rowena has such a tidy monopoly on, but the contrast between this tool and Nanakusa's more whimsical works is striking. One would never guess that its maker would go on to build Shishu's most expansive smithy, guarded in each cardinal direction by statues of the Four Lords...
Given their function as a spiritual bulwark against the earthquakes that plague Hingashi, stones of protection are far from unique to Mount Rokkon. One tale connected to them, however, certainly reflects its unusual history.
Legend has it that a warrior of some renown once visited the mountain as a pilgrim. During his soul-cleansing climb up its slopes, he put his hands together to pray at a stone of protection. In that very moment, a twisted beast leapt from the shadows. It was injured, a pitchfork protruding from its belly, but regardless of circumstance, the warrior could hardly ignore its attempts to tear his head from his body. He plunged his trusty blade into the creature, which thrashed violently in response, colliding with the nearby stone. Ominous peals resounded from the earth below. In alarm, the warrior lost hold of his weapon, while the beast escaped into the foliage and out of sight. Fearing an earthquake was indeed imminent, he carefully wiped the beast's blood from the stone, and all was silent once more.
There are several variants of this legend: in one, the warrior slays the beast, while another insists that it was the creature's bloodcurdling cry that set the earth to rumbling. Still other tales present natural disasters themselves as divine─or at least preternatural─entities. All contain at least a grain of truth, for the fears of a population constantly under threat by events outside its control are very real.
If one theory out of the Studium is to be believed, the stones' protective power may also be more than superstition. The gist, I recall, is that stones of protection are a form of magical focus not dissimilar to nouliths, and thus can stabilize aetherial currents when placed at confluences. Alas, I remember naught of the finer details─beyond their being rather dull.
Ascetics have long availed themselves of Mount Rokkon's solitude to train mind and spirit, and this day was no different. The breeze was still, the trees silent, and the monk of concern to our tale was deep in peaceful meditation when he heard the rustling of grass. Rousing from his contemplations, he opened his eyes to see who had business of such import as to interrupt his tranquility...and came face-to-face instead with a twisted beast. If its form left any doubt to its identity, the weapons lodged in its flesh confirmed that it was Shishio, king among nue and terror to the smallfolk. Though the thought of ending a life─much less that of a creature struggling, despite deep wounds, to survive─was abhorrent, so too was the thought of letting this devourer of men go free. He readied his holy staff, and struck at the mononoke.
The battle was a fierce one, but the monk had the upper hand. To draw the conflict to a close, he struck his staff into Shishio, turning it to stone. He would go on to found Shojo Temple, that a watch might be kept over the now-silent mononoke, and its seal remain unbroken evermore─or so the legends say.
Holy staves such as the monk wielded are quite unlike those of Western mages. Not only do they hold the particular power to purge fell magicks via sound, their use as physical weapons goes far beyond unsophisticated bludgeoning. Though I sadly lack the skill to make use of such awesome power, I find myself considering more mundane applications. In climbing Mount Rokkon, even well-trained ascetics surely find themselves in need of additional support from time to time. Should we need to scale the peak once again, or should an inconvenient wall or pile of boxes stand in our way, I shall be perfectly equipped for the challenge.
Long ago and far away, an onmyoji found himself bereft of his beloved wife. Years upon years passed, the cherry tree they planted to celebrate their union bearing fewer blossoms every spring, yet still, the grief of her passing remained fresh. Though left with little hope for himself, the onmyoji prayed the tree, at least, might recover.
To his great surprise, these prayers were answered by his wife herself, for in life she too had been an onmyoji, and had left behind a finely made dogu. At his plea, it began to shine with the power of life itself, reviving the tree's withered boughs in an instant. Understanding now that their love was everlasting, no matter how fleeting their time together, the onmyoji too was filled with newfound vigor, and happily devoted himself to caring for the resplendent cherry tree for the rest of his days.
How painful, and how beautiful, that life should be so ephemeral. Upon our return from Mount Rokkon, I could not help but inquire with Tsubaki as to the nature of Mistress Yozakura, whom we encountered under such inauspicious circumstances. It seems she was heir to the Hanagakure style of ninjutsu, thus her way with flowers, and was in service to Lord Uzumibi at the time of her death. Tokimori added that she had been aiding in the evacuation of those trapped at Shojo Temple, and lost her life to a mononoke while pulling a child to safety.
The great kiseru is rumored to bring similarly great fortune or great calamity to its owner, but I have seen no sign of it possessing a capacity for either thus far. I can but presume that my predecessors sought to credit their trials and tribulations to a single simple cause in a complex and uncertain world. Still, between the power invested in it by such beliefs and the rich aether of the mountain, it would have been shocking had the kiseru not become a tsukumogami, even were it once wholly mundane. But regardless of whether Gorai was blessed to have spent his final days in the company of his beloved collection, or cursed to have suffered the grave consequences, I doubt the pipe alone was the arbiter of his fate.
Though I had what many would consider an “unfortunate” childhood, I never thought myself the victim of ill fate. On the contrary, I believe my acute mercantile sensibilities to be the product of early hardships─instructive steps along a journey that, all things considered, hasn't been half bad. I might've said otherwise at the time had I stopped to weigh my happiness against my unhappiness, but instead I kept moving, and 'tis well that I did. Whether we speak of tangible or intangible fortunes, it matters not what we have, but what we make of it.