Pursuit of Clan Ambition!

The power of the royals has been eroding for years now. Just look at the peasants' uprising in Dion a few years ago; past generations wouldn't have dared dream of such things, and yet... here we are. The uprising planted seeds, see, and now a number of groups are preparing to claim power from the throne.

Our kingdom needs young, energetic lords like you to lead it into the future, but you're not yet ready yet.

Once your clan distinguishes itself further, I will join forces with you and lend you my support.

(Only a level 4 clan leader can undertake this quest.)

The power of the royals has been eroding for years now. Just look at the peasants' uprising in Dion a few years ago; past generations wouldn't have dared dream of such things, and yet... here we are. The uprising planted seeds, see, and now a number of groups are preparing to claim power from the throne.

Our kingdom needs young, energetic lords like you to lead it into the future, but you're not yet ready yet.

Once your clan distinguishes itself further, I will join forces with you and lend you my support, even if you already have more than enough allies.

(Only a level 4 clan leader can undertake this quest.)

Finally, the Seal of Aspiration! Good work! Now you must take it to one of the grand masters. Show it to them and they will instruct you on how to strengthen your clan.

The power of the royals has been eroding for years now. Just look at the peasants' uprising in Dion a few years ago; past generations wouldn't have dared dream of such things, and yet... here we are. The uprising planted seeds, see, and now a number of groups are preparing to claim power from the throne.

Our kingdom needs young, energetic lords like you to lead it into the future. If you would accept my aid, I would gladly give it.

• "Then we will join our forces together."

The power of the royals has been eroding for years now. Just look at the peasants' uprising in Dion a few years ago; past generations wouldn't have dared dream of such things, and yet... here we are. The uprising planted seeds, see, and now a number of groups are preparing to claim power from the throne.

Our kingdom needs young, energetic lords like you to lead it into the future.

(Only a level 4 clan leader can undertake this quest.)

Yes, I agree. But first I must ask you a question: why do you wish to seek your clan? As clan leader, what is it that you truly desire? Answer truly.

• "I want to make our lands safe for future generations."
• "I want to have my remembered for all time."

Ha... you remind me of myself when I was young. But this world is not so easily conquered my friend....

I believe that you have what it takes to be a capable leader, and I'm sure things will work out for the best. Now though... now you must help me prepare for my mission.

• "I'll do all I can, sir."

Then you must never show your true feelings; a leader with as many followers as you must keep their private opinions to themselves. You have shown much potential, so now I will tell you how you can help me.

• "Thank you for your trust."

Right now, Giran is very unhapppy because of the Land Dragon Antharas. It's understandable because rumor has it Antharas is awake again. The ones in power in Giran, the nobles and merchants, are discussing ridiculous solutions about hiring mercenaries and such. The fools.... You know, a swarm of drakes and wyrms may emerge from Death Pass soon, so I can't just wait 'til those useless nobles come up with a half-baked solution.

I'm starting a business in Giran to find a solution; here's something you might interested in. First, go to Giran Castle Town, and meet with Martien. He's taking care of business me. He's someone I trust, so cooperate with him. May god bless you and your clan.

You must hurry to the Town of Giran and meet with Martien. Do whatever he says, and go prepared!

How are things going with Martien? I have his report right here, and by the sounds of it you and your clan are doing well. Just never forget the responsibilities you shoulder now, towards the whole of Aden.

I have just received Martien's report. I have given compensation to the families of the dead Dwarves, but it still pains me to see good men in my employ meet their end under my watch. Today is truly a sad day....

At least their suffering was not in vaun: the first part of my plan has been completed. Now we must move on to the next.

• "What's next?"

Martien tells me that you have completed the first stage of the plan. Now you and your clan are needed elsewhere. Please have your clan lord come and see me in the next few days.

History shows us again and again that ultimate power, complete domination comes most often to those with the superior technology. It's because of that that I have long supported the Black Anvil guild. Their mission is to research the ancient technology of the giants, technology which has so far failed to yield any practical applications even when it has such amazing potential.

There is a Dwarf in the guild named Balthazar in whom I have invested much time and resources. He is an amazing Artisan, and I believe that his efforts will soon bear fruit. However, he has reached an impasse in his work and has requested my help. It has something to do with a new type of golem he is developing.... He will tell you more when you see him. Take this letter and find him in Hunters Village.

You must hurry to Balthazar with the letter I gave you. He can be found in Hunters Village.

Although Balthazar is not well-known in Dwarven society, he is an incredibly talented Artisan, and now it seems that his efforts will finally bear fruit. Your clan will be a great help to him; I also expect that the results of his research will be of great use to you....

I have heard that your clan has been a great help to Balthazar... thank you.

I hate to bring this up so soon after your return, but the next part of your mission awaits. Are you ready?

• "What is the next part of the mission?"

I have heard of the great help that you and your clan have given to Balthazar... thank you.

Now why didn't you bring your clan leader with you? I must meet with him to ask for his help with something.

Much has transpired since then. Dire warnings of global destruction and chaos are rife throughout the land. A force has been dispatched to deal with Antharas, and evil spirits are wreaking havoc in several parts of the kingdom. Warlords are battling against each other for the privilege of ruling the territories. We haven't much time; we must quickly finish our preparations.

Have you heard of the Scepter of Judgment? Legend states that whoever holds it becomes invincible in battle. Of course this is complete nonsense, but the problem is that everyone believes it to be true, commoner and soldier alike....

Take this letter to Sir Eric Rodemai in the Town of Aden. He and his family are all my faithful servants. He will tell you what you are to do when you see him.

You must find the Scepter of Judgment and secure it before it falls into the wrong hands. Go and see Sir Eric Rodemai in the Town of Aden. Give him the letter I gave you and he will tell you what to do next.

I hear that you have met with Sir Rodemai. As you know, you must find the Scepter of Judgment. If it falls into the hands of our rivals, it will bring chaos and destruction to all that we know.

Wonderful work! You managed to obtain the Scepter of Judgment! Now quick... hand it over!

• "Here, take it."
• "What do you intend to do with it?"

Wonderful! You were able to secure the Scepter of Judgement! Where is your clan leader, by the way? I trust he wasn't hurt?

Well, our time together has finally come to an end. I pray that one day your clan will become strong enough to establish peace on this continent, but fear that it will take a great many deaths before peace can be established here.

Now I bestow upon your clan the Seal of Aspiration. Since the days of King Rauhel this honor has been given to Aden's most promising young lords who dare to dream great dreams. Present this seal to High Priests and Grand Masters and you'll receive help in strengthening your clan.

I see from your face that Sir Rodemai has been talking about me....

Please don't misunderstand my intentions; When King Rauhel was alive, I served him faithfully, and I have been as truthful with you as I thought I could be, but I believe my country needs a strong ruler such as myself....

Ah yes, the mighty Scepter of Judgment! Ha! Even if it has no genuine powers, the reputation it has garnered and the fear it instills in others almost makes it as powerful as the legend. Now with the scepter by my side I can rally my troops and make our enemies tremble! I will become invincible!

And what of you? I must admit, I took advantage of your clan, but didn't you also use me for your own purposes? You will certainly need my help in the future. There may come a day when we will face each other as enemies, but for now, what is it that you need the most?

Perhaps the very thing I have in my hand? The Seal of Aspiration?

We can each help ourselves by helping each other! A fair trade, no?

• "No. Not like this."
• "Very well. Let's trade."

You are an... an idiot! How can you be so short-sighted! What a hypocrite! I certainly judged you wrong!

Even now the Black Legion is coming for this, and you will be powerless to fight back. They will wash over you like the incoming tide, and when they have what they want they will leave, leaving you little more than broken, ruined potential.

I suppose I misjudged you. We all seek what we think is most important. Here you go. Take the Seal of Aspiration--it will bring you one step closer to your dream.

An elder knows when to change his mind; a child does not. What were you thinking by refusing me the scepter? You must have known that you couldn't keep it from me--I am destined to possess it.

• "We'll see about that."
• "Fine, take it."

Go and tell your clan leader that he must relinquish the scepter immediately. It is of no use to your clan. If he values his own life and that of his clan he will comply.

Gustav Athebaldt told me about you. It's an honor to finally get to work with you. Actually my father Sir Kristof Rodemai often speaks of you. He says that you and your race have embarked on a great mission, and I should watch you carefully and learn. I wish to meet the lord of your clan as soon as possible.

Gustav Athebaldt told me about you. It's an honor to finally get to work with you. Actually my father Sir Kristof Rodemai often speaks of you. He says that you and your race have embarked on a great mission, and I should watch you carefully and learn. I wish to meet the lord of your clan as soon as possible.

Generations ago my family agreed to work for the Athebaldt family. Now they have ordered us to recover the Scepter of Judgment, a relic of the ancient kingdom. It may actually be just a legend, we have been searching everywhere without success.

• "Tell me more about the scepter of judgement."

As you may know, it is said that the scepter makes its possessor invincible in battle. Although this is probably just a legend, having it will greatly boost our soldiers' morale. However, we are losing hope of finding it. We hired Dwarven Bounty Hunters to find it and they have had no success either. My father has recommended that I ask the witches' advice regarding this matter...

• "Tell me more about the witches."

It is impossible to guess how old these three women are. They typically show up, mumble some incomprehensible incantations and vanish. My father has become obsessed by their remarks. I'm not sure if these witches have been of any help to my family in the past. If it was up to me I wouldn't have anything to do with those blasphemous old women. Would you be willing to visit them on my behalf? It is said that the youngest of the three sisters, Cleo, can be found east of the village. Cross the bridge and you will find her.

Please find Cleo and ask her advice on the Scepter of Judgment. East of the village you will find a bridge. Cross it and you will find her.

An Imperial grave? A grave keeper? Guardian of a key? Traveling freely through time and space? Must be pierced with two-pronged lance? I've got a pretty good idea what they mean...

• "What do these words mean?"

Let me see if I can put them together...

It is at the National Cemetery...

Once you defeat the grave keeper a key master will show up and give you a key...

When you collect all six keys, you must overpower the imperial grave keeper and find the scepter...

You must take care, as the Imperial grave keeper can move through time and space... This will appear as instantaneous attacks... You must divide your team into two parts to defeat him.

You have obtained an important clue from the witch regarding the Scepter of Judgment? Now you must go and find it! I must speak with your clan lord regarding this matter. Please bring him to me at once!

Will it be possible to find the Scepter of Judgment by following the obscure clues of the witches?

• "What do the clues mean?"

Ah, at last, the Scepter of Judgment! It truly does exist! This is a great accomplishment... Sir Gustav Athebaldt sends word that he would like for all of you to bring the scepter to him. However, I must ask you something... Why are you allowing yourselves to be taken advantage of by someone like Sir Gustav Athebaldt? My father has told me a lot about you and that's why I ask. With your skills you can follow your own path.

• "What do you mean by this?"

Sir Gustav Athebaldt is an uncle of King Amadeo Cadmus. He is next in succession to the royal throne. He feigns a disinterest in politics to dispel people's suspicions, while in reality he controls many cliques which are undermining the power of the king. He ulimately plans to seize the throne!

The dragon eggs you have collected will be used to create his own private army of striders. Even now Dwarven Artisans are completing the gigantic siege weapons he will use in the coup.

This is all I will say on the subject. Please go to Sir Gustav Athebaldt.

Despite his outward appearance Sir Athebaldt is a very crafty man. You must take care that he doesn't take advantage of you.

Sir Athebaldt has told me that your clan would be helpful in my research. I don't have the time to repeat myself, where is the leader of your fine clan?

From what Sir Athebaldt has told me, your clan has decided to aid my research. Is that true? Excellent! Oh, you want to know some details about my studies? Of course; I will gladly tell you, my friend. I am working with my old friend Tajif Goldgather to find a new energy source. If we are successful, we will be able to maximize the efficiency of a number of devices. Exciting, isn't it?

• Ask how to help.

Ah! I need more Spiteful Soul energy to complete my research. Go to the Massacre Fields. There you will find the Spiteful Soul Captain, who possesses the energies of several vengeful spirits. It will not be easy to defeat him because he surrounds himself with followers, but I think your party is powerful enough to do so. Defeat the

Spiteful Soul Captain and obtain the Spiteful Soul Energy before the souls disappear. If they are destroyed, they are worthless to me... Bring me at least 10 and I will be exceedingly grateful.

From what Sir Athebaldt has told me, your clan has decided to aid my research. Is that true? Excellent! Oh, you want to know some details about my studies? Of course; I will gladly tell you, my friend. My old friend Tajif Goldgather recently found some mysterious documents in the Cruma Tower. To make a long story short, we are researching a potential energy source. If we are successful, we will be able to maximize the efficiency of a number of devices.

• Ask how to help.

Ah! I need more Spiteful Soul energy to complete my research. Go to the Massacre Fields. There you will find the Spiteful Soul Captain, who possesses the energies of several vengeful spirits. It will not be easy to defeat him because he surrounds himself with followers, but I think your party is powerful enough to do so. Defeat the

Spiteful Soul Captain and obtain the Spiteful Soul Energy before the souls disappear. If they are destroyed, they are worthless to me... Bring me at least 10 and I will be exceedingly grateful. Very well, then...wait! What is that coin? Let me see it!

• Show him the coin.

This is a guild coin! You must have helped a member of the Black Anvil Guild... Well, we Dwarves have long memories for those who render us aid. I will give you one item that prove helpful to you in this task. This is a recipe for converting partial Spiteful Souls into useable energy. If there is a Dwarf in your midst, he will be able to use this on your behalf. Now then, may Maphr bring you a prosperous journey!

Oh! You didn't know that my research focus has changed? I don't need those items anymore! What I require now is 10 Spiteful Soul Energies. After defeating the Spiteful Soul Captain in the Massacre Fields, collect the energies before his body vanishes. Sorry for the misunderstanding! If you had come earlier, I could have told you of the change. Remember, though -- I need the Spiteful Soul energies, not the Spiteful Souls themselves!

As I already told you, I need 10 Spiteful Soul Energies. After defeating the Spiteful Soul Captain in the Massacre Fields, collect the energies before his body vanishes. Remember, though -- I need the Spiteful Soul Energies, not the Spiteful Souls themselves!

Thank you! You have brought the items I asked for: Spiteful Soul Energy and the Nebulite Crystal. Shall I take a look? Here, join me! Ah! These are works of art. Look at the exquisite detail, the elegant lines? Compared to the technology of the ancient Giants, our Dwarven machines are nothing more than children's toys. Thanks to you, our Siege Golem research project can finally move forward. Soon, hopefully, we will have some tangible results to show for all our labor. If I were you, I'd stay away from all castles! Heh heh!

Excellent! You have brought all Spiteful Soul Energies I asked for. Shall I take a look? Join me, my friend! Ah...I can feel the power of the souls thrumming like the string of a lyre! If we can tap this source, we will be able to develop an almost unlimited source of energy! Then my name will be sung forever in the halls of my descendants!

Thanks to you my research is proceeding as scheduled. Soon we shall all see the amazing results! The prototype is almost finished!

Sir Gustav professed much faith in your clan. I must speak to your leader!

I have already given it to Athebaldt. Antharas is preparing to awaken The Land Dragon. Many people dismiss it as mere rumor, but according to Athebaldt's report, it's starting, and starting soon. At that time, the wyrms and drakes inhabiting Death Pass shall follow Antharas, like soldiers being led onto the battlefield, and they will lay waste to this region.

In order for Giran to survive, we must prepare. We can't suppress him, and using normal methods to fight Antharas is pointless. We must find a way to stand against Antharas's monsters. We have come up with a plan... Thankfully, Athebaldt must have heard somehow, and he chose to support us.

• "How exactly?"

We are collecting the eggs of wyrms and drakes in order to learn about their breeding habits. One expert in this field is thinking of studying these eggs at the suggestion of numerous pet managers. In order to collect the eggs, several dwarven bounty hunters were dispatched to Death Pass, but it has been over a week since their departure, and they have not yet returned. Perhaps it was too much for them? I would like for you to go to Death Pass and collect the eggs. Please obtain 10 each of the Sandworm Eggs, Drake Eggs, Blitz Wyrm Eggs, and Mist Drake Eggs. The Blitz Wyrms and Mist Drakes are very rare, so you may have difficulty finding them. Also, if you run into the dwarves who were dispatched earlier, you may receive some clues. Good luck!

The land dragon will soon be awake. This will decide the fate of Giran... no, the entire kingdom itself. Hurry to Death Pass, and obtain Sandworm Eggs, Drake Eggs, Blitz Wyrm Eggs, and Mist Drake Eggs. One or two won't do 0 I need 10 of each. I know it will be difficult, but please do this for me.

Oh! One more thing - the Blitz Wyrm and the Mist Drake are quite rare, so you will have more difficulty finding them. And if you run into the dwarves who were dispatched earlier, you may receive some clues. Good luck.

All dead?...Oh, my!

How dreadful! Oh, well, what can be done? I mean, frankly, they were grave robbers and made their living smuggling stolen relics... It is a dangerous life which always seems to end prematurely.

Anyway, good job! I'll take all the eggs that you've brought. Now you should report back to Athebaldt.

• "What about the dead Dwarves' belongings?"

Hmm, I wouldn't know. They had rather unsavory reputations, even for Dwarves... Just put them out of your mind.

Thank you again for all of your help. I have reported to Athebaldt what a big help you've been. Go and see him. He is expecting you.

Athebaldt has a very high opinion of your clan. His influence will be a big factor in your success.

I must find the leader of the brothers of blood. They are warriors united by their firm resolve and ambition. I must guide him to a priceless royal symbol of no monetary value...

Welcome leader of the resolute and anmitious brothers of blood. I have been expecting you...

• "Tell me about the Scepter of Judgment."

Listen carefully. There is one whose path freely traverses time and space. The holder of 6 keys, the great king of grave lookouts... If he is pierced with a two-pronged spear, he will be brought down, and then his effects shall become yours... Or if you wish, I could tell you another story.

• "Tell me another story."

The path of a king is rife with blood and honor, war and death, ambition and power. Soon you will know all of them well. Such has it always been and such shall it always be. Soon you will be forced to choose whether to stand against the waves of fate or to ride over them...

I never repeat myself. If you don't understand what I have already explained to you, go and see Sir Eric Rodemai. His family often visits me to listen to the ramblings of a crazy old woman.

Did you hear what I said? Riding the waves of fate or standing against them. Although fate may be cruel regardless of which you choose, you still must make a choice.

The Scepter of Judgment is desperately sought after by many of the military elite... You can trade it for something you would find much more useful. Why have you brought it to me? Can I touch it?

• Show her the Scepter of Judgment

Ah, the scepter of shunaiman! It's been many years since I laid eyes on it. Its color has completely faded!

Although it is quite ancient it is very fragile. For instance, if I were to drop it while standing on a stone floor...

Clang!! It would break just like that! Ha!

Destruction and chaos! It's what I live for! Stop frowning, it was of no use to you anyway. Why else would you have handed it over so willingly...

Instead, why don't you take this? It was given to me by a young king who had gotten it from the lady of the lake. Take it with you. When next we meet you shall be drenched in blood, and I will be waiting...

The box is secured with six locks.

• Open coffer

This box may only be opened by a clan leader.

The box is secured with six locks.

• Open coffer

You have discovered the Scepter of Judgment.

The box is secured with six locks.

• Open coffer

It will not open.

I've heard about your clan... you are the Clan in high spirits, no? I heard that you were headed towards Death Pass...? I'll be counting on you. Please find my brother. He received the title of honorable Bounty Hunter... These days he hangs out with a bad crowd called the Magpie's Brothers. People say they were hired by a human aristocrat to find something in Death Pass... There is something very fishy about them....

I have heard many impressive tales of your clan... I would be greatly honored to meet the lord of your clan.

A magpie brooch...? Does this mean...?! How could he...!

Sob! It's from the Magpie Brothers! He fell in with those ruffians and see where it got him... He sullied the reputations of honorable Bounty Hunters everywhere... How dreadful!

Even though he has disgraced himself, I cannot deny our blood connection. Thank you for discovering the fate of my brother. As a token of appreciation from myself and the Black Anvil Guild, please take these coins.

• "Tell me more about the Magpie Brothers."

They don't respect their ancestors. They are bounty hunters who dig up graves and rummage through relics to collect anything that's valuable. They were named the Magpie's Brothers because of their greed. They even hoarded relics from the Dwarf Kingdom found in the ancient labyrinth in Schuttgart and sold them to collectors at high prices! They have no shame! The Magpie's Brothers were eventually banished from the Dwarf Kingdom, and rumor has it that they since sneaked into the Kingdom of Aden and have been stealing relics from the Elmore-Aden national cemetery... Recently, I heard that they are working on collecting eggs in Death Pass, and are cooperating with some human aristocrat....

I will never forget your kindness in bringing me the news of my poor brother. I hope that the guild can help you someday.

• "Tell me about the Magpie Brothers."

A dead Dwarf with a large bag.

• Open the bag

There are three Blitz Wyrm Eggs inside.

There is nothing there.

The corpse of a Dwarf with a large bag.

• Open the bag

There are three Blitz Wyrm Eggs and four Mist Drake Eggs inside.

It is empty.

A seriously injured Dwarf, gasping for his last breath.

• "Hey! Are you OK?"

Uhhhh... Luh, luh, look here... I was wrong... Woe is me!... What an awful way to die... Eggs of drake... Tuh, tuh, take them to Martien... And, this brooch... Puh, puh, please... take it to muh, my brother Kusto...! Maphr... welcomes... my... soul... Arghhhh...

The still-warm corpse of a Dwarf.

Take heed, my ambitious friend! The path of a king is often ravaged by war and death!

You who will walk the path of a king, listen carefully! Ambition and power will guide your fate!