The cold winds of Ishgard carried the scars of a thousand-year war. Beneath the city’s towering walls, fear of the dragons remained strong, and every battle seemed to deepen the hatred between two peoples. Alphinaud Leveilleur refused to believe that bloodshed was the only path forward. Standing beside the Warrior of Light, he searched for a way to end the conflict through understanding rather than conquest. He believed that if they could find Lady Iceheart and learn the truth behind Nidhogg’s rage, they might discover a chance for peace. Estinien Wyrmblood listened in silence. The Azure Dragoon knew the dragons of Dravania better than most, and Nidhogg’s shadow had shaped much of his life. Though he had spent years fighting dragons, he understood that victory through force alone would not heal the wounds of the past. Alphinaud knew their plan would require more than courage—it would require time. The group brought their request before Ser Aymeric, asking Ishgard’s leadership to hold back its forces while they searched for another solution. Aymeric understood the risk. The safety of Ishgard depended on difficult choices, but so did its future. After hearing their plea, he granted them the opportunity they needed.

Having defeated the Endsinger and ended the threat of the Final Days, the Scions believe their greatest trial has been overcome. Yet the victory is incomplete: the Warrior of Light has not returned with them. The person who has carried the burden of saving Etheirys, the First, and countless lives across the star is absent. When the Scions return to the Ragnarok, they are relieved to be alive, but that relief quickly gives way to concern. They understand that the Warrior of Light stayed behind alone at Ultima Thule, exhausted after fighting beyond the limits of what any person should be capable of enduring. For years, they have watched the Warrior repeatedly sacrifice themselves—charging into battles against primals, Ascians, ancient beings, and world-ending threats. This time, however, there is a very real possibility that the Warrior may have finally pushed too far. The atmosphere among the Scions is one of quiet anxiety rather than panic. These are not soldiers waiting for orders or heroes celebrating a victory. They are friends waiting for someone they love to come home.

Lonwoerd wants to have you reaffirm your desire to join the Rogues' Guild. He suggests that you meet with the master of the Rogues' guild, Jacke. You have just entered the Rogue's Guild which is disguised as the Dutiful Sisters of the Edelweiss. You find Jacke standing by the center table and approach him, asking if he is Jacke.