The Mysteries of Vana 'Diel [Archive] - Page 2

Sparthos

08-25-2011, 01:42 AM

Lol sometimes it's the little things!! <3

lol.

To add to the questions: Abyssea. This was discussed partially on BG as well.

As I understand the storyline, everything seems to have played out in Abyssea as it did during CoP in Vana'diel up until the Al'taieu expedition where Prishe & co. attempt to stop the Keeper of the Apocalypse.

You, Prishe and the other fail to defeat Promathia, he absorbs Sel'theus along with the rest of the cast and becomes Shinryu. Prishe manages to escape and remain within the Empyreal Paradox.

However...

As I remember the story, Bahamut was poised to attack the 3 nations and Jeuno with his Wyrm army to prevent the Keeper from returning to Vana'diel. The adventurer along with Prishe failed in Abyssea so was the destruction of the nations at Bahamut's hand or Shinryu's creations?

The Zilartian palace in Abyssea apparently is located on moon. How is this possible? As we learned in Vana'diel, the palace was located within the Al'taieu crystal yet the crystal itself was inside the palace - thus the Empyreal Paradox.

Did Shinryu move the palace outside the crystal? How is the paradox still a paradox? His ultimate goal was to reunite the crystals and bring his about his own death but was the moon intended to smash into Abyssea and end all life?

It'd explain why the moon is so close to Abyseea.

I think I have the main idea of the story but if anyone could clear up the hazy parts to me, it'd be greatly appreciated.

Nianny

08-25-2011, 02:20 AM

Balaur is a multi-headed serpent in mythology. Coupled with the fact that his skulls are used for weapon upgrades (and weapon upgrades drop in twos) it makes sense.

Didn't know about the last part, so it makes some sense. Thank you. :)

Septimus

08-27-2011, 06:17 AM

lol.

To add to the questions: Abyssea. This was discussed partially on BG as well.

As I understand the storyline, everything seems to have played out in Abyssea as it did during CoP in Vana'diel up until the Al'taieu expedition where Prishe & co. attempt to stop the Keeper of the Apocalypse.

You, Prishe and the other fail to defeat Promathia, he absorbs Sel'theus along with the rest of the cast and becomes Shinryu. Prishe manages to escape and remain within the Empyreal Paradox.

However...

As I remember the story, Bahamut was poised to attack the 3 nations and Jeuno with his Wyrm army to prevent the Keeper from returning to Vana'diel. The adventurer along with Prishe failed in Abyssea so was the destruction of the nations at Bahamut's hand or Shinryu's creations?

The Zilartian palace in Abyssea apparently is located on moon. How is this possible? As we learned in Vana'diel, the palace was located within the Al'taieu crystal yet the crystal itself was inside the palace - thus the Empyreal Paradox.

Did Shinryu move the palace outside the crystal? How is the paradox still a paradox? His ultimate goal was to reunite the crystals and bring his about his own death but was the moon intended to smash into Abyssea and end all life?

It'd explain why the moon is so close to Abyseea.

I think I have the main idea of the story but if anyone could clear up the hazy parts to me, it'd be greatly appreciated.

Spoilers. (It only works when River Song says it...)

Now here is my question for which I hope that we could get an answer from the top. What is the deal with the Avatars roaming around the zones like Akash, Buhmi, Jala, and Tejas? Are they the Celestial and Terrestrial Avatars for Abyssea? Were the Celestial Avatars freed from their Proto-Crystals and they are roaming around confused as to what is going on now? Or are they just random monsters that happen to look like and have Avatar abilities and give decent lights?

Urthdigger

08-27-2011, 06:23 AM

Actually that ring of stuff surrounding the empyreal paradox? I think that might be cruor. Also, an interesting note: During the end of CoP, if you look down you can see you're above Vana'diel. During the Shinryu fight, if you look down you see the moon, and if you look up you see Vana'diel as another planet. I thought that was a nice touch.

Karbuncle

08-27-2011, 06:24 AM

In the storyline they explain Tu'lia was moved to the moon. If thats what you're asking too :o

So thats the reason Sea is now on the moon lol

Matty

08-27-2011, 10:26 PM

This thread is fantastic. So glad to see I'm not the only one who was mystified by the coeurl. I've got a few questions of my own...

What is the exact relation between dragoon wyverns and wild wyverns? Are they simply the juvenile form of the wild ones and the forelimbs atrophy and are absorbed by the body as they mature, or are they just a similar, related species? Achtelle and Bravo seem to point towards the former, but every so often (read: constantly) you hear people calling their wyverns baby wyrms.

What is the significance of Elvaan middle initials and how are they chosen? Are they short for something, or do they just think their names would look fancier with a single letter in the middle? The closest I've been able to find is that children might inherit their mother's middle initial. At least that's what the royal family seems to do.

Why are there Colibri in Quon in the past? Are they escaped pets, or were they once native to the middle lands?

And of course, the most pressing question of all; Does catnip affect Mithras?

Can't wait to see more answers! :D

Alymorel

08-28-2011, 06:18 AM

Mirage

08-28-2011, 06:32 AM

Maybe the clock started running in the beta servers.

Sparthos

08-28-2011, 07:09 AM

Ok, so, the Crystal War took place in 862-864. It is now 1130. That is a difference of 266-268 years. I have been told by RL people and IG NPCs that the crystal war took place twenty years ago. Also, some of the characters you meet haven't aged more than about twenty years. However, if you do the math, roughly 227 years have passed since the game has released (There was rounding, leap years not taken into account, and counting a Vana'diel day as 57 minutes on rough estimation).

What's up with that?

Would you prefer if everyone were skeletons for accuracy?

Alymorel

08-28-2011, 07:24 AM

Would you prefer if everyone were skeletons for accuracy?

Well we adventurers are magical things with the ability to say "F*** you!" to the laws of time, space, and physics. We'd never be skeletons. Some accuracy and clarity, however, would be kinda nice. :P

Urthdigger

08-28-2011, 07:37 AM

Ok, so, the Crystal War took place in 862-864. It is now 1130. That is a difference of 266-268 years. I have been told by RL people and IG NPCs that the crystal war took place twenty years ago. Also, some of the characters you meet haven't aged more than about twenty years. However, if you do the math, roughly 227 years have passed since the game has released (There was rounding, leap years not taken into account, and counting a Vana'diel day as 57 minutes on rough estimation).

What's up with that?

The in-game time has no correlation to time as far as quests go (For example, you can take years to get your next CS and still manage to beat the NPCs somewhere) It is explicitly stated in one of the WotG missions that present time Vana'diel is in the year 884.

Xellith

08-28-2011, 07:56 AM

Why are there Colibri in Quon in the past? Are they escaped pets, or were they once native to the middle lands?

Its said by several NPCs (noticeably the ladybug wing quest) that many species were hunted to extinction and that is why they are no longer around. Some species like colibri could be migratory and according to the game just might not be in the zone at the time but might return at another season.

Ziyyigo-Tipyigo

08-28-2011, 12:26 PM

I can certainly believe the colibri in Ronfaure being hunted to extinction...

Wolfandre

08-28-2011, 04:45 PM

Now here is my question for which I hope that we could get an answer from the top. What is the deal with the Avatars roaming around the zones like Akash, Buhmi, Jala, and Tejas? Are they the Celestial and Terrestrial Avatars for Abyssea? Were the Celestial Avatars freed from their Proto-Crystals and they are roaming around confused as to what is going on now? Or are they just random monsters that happen to look like and have Avatar abilities and give decent lights?

I had actually been toying with this thought for a while and here's what I came up with.

It was mentioned earlier that it was Carbuncle's plan to create pacts between the five races and the Celestials to prevent their rejoining of the mothercrystals. However, now that Karaha-Buraha and the Champions of Abyssea (read: Vana'dielian Adventurers) are gone and their Summoners with them, the Celestials of Abyssea likely went on a field day.

Pacts are apparently a strong thing with Avatars of all kinds. If not for Nag'molada keeping the pact between the Kuluu and Bahamut (as seen during the CoP 2-5), Bahamut would have destroyed Riverne after appeared and summong Vrtra, Tiamat, and company. Fenrir likely wouldn't have saved Windurst during the Great War either, if not for Karaha and his strong ties to the current Sibyl.

However, the Celestials in Abyssea are likely just running amok for the sake of it. Ever have that feeling where you just wanna lie in bed all day, do nothing, play some FFXI? The Celestials are asleep for millenia and you want them to get up and work? Pffffft. Shinryu is already extradorinarly close to executing their plan for them, so what do they have to do? They might help him along by attempting to destroy the resistance a bit, but the end is neigh, in their eyes, so why not have some fun before Paradise is returned? I mean, it's not like they can go on killing sprees when there's nothing to kill.

Also, remember, not all Celestials are roamers in Abyssea areas. Some are stuck between Abyssea and Vana'dial as Voidwalkers. Which leads me to wonder what happened to Abyssea's Dynamis if Diabolos was similarly corrupt and is a Voidwalker. I have a bad feeling we may see Fenrir, as he is the only one we don't have a monster of/theory for. Bahamut, as someone said, was likely destroyed by Shinryu, Carbuncle said 'Eff it.' The way I see it, actually, Adventurers shouldn't be able to summon in Abyssea for above reasons, unless Avatars can transend dimentional barriers as well. I suppose you could argue that, since Abyssean Avatars can Voidwalk, Vana'dielian Avatars can transcend dimensions. But then that brings up an interesting point: Why is it only the Adventurers of Vana'dial are the only ones that care about Abyssea? You'd think that the Terrestrials would know about it and would want to do something. *shrug*

What I would like to know is what happened to Abyssean Kuluu and why they're even more corrupt as well. In addition to that, and maybe I just haven't done enough quests within Abyssea (realistically, I've done like, four, aside from mega boss quests >.< ), I'd like to know what happened to the Abyssean Beastmen. Surely they met the same fate as the five races, but their story is largely (read: completely) left out. And what of the Mithran Homeland (why can no one remember what it's called? thought it started with a 'G'...), Aht Urghan, and the Far East? Am I leaving out a continent to the west and/or the homeland of the Orcs/Gigas to the north? MOAR CAVERNOUS MAWS PLS. :D

As I'm typing this, I'm answering my own question, but left it up for conversation sake. The Tonberries blindly follow Promaithia and have likely recognized his advent via Shinryu and aligned themselves with him. Sucks for them that they get wiped out when he finishes reforming the mothercrystals.

Also, I understand the need for the mechanic of Relic armor in place in Dynamis, but since it's clearly stated many times the Empire stayed out of the war, why is it the armor of the elite Immortals (you know, the ones that don't go anywhere or do anything without command? likely, this Immortal would have been GIVING the orders), the best court entertainers (c'mon, us PUPs don't much like war...) , and Ephramaudian descendents (aren't they too busy leading a rebellion?) show up in Dynamis areas? I can understand some deserters/travellers...but it's HIGHLY unlikely that the 'best of the best of the best, SIR' decided to travel to Xarcabard and die. I fully understand the reason DNC and SCH gear is there and why it just decided to show up after WotG took place.

Thoughts? Ideas?

Wolfandre

08-28-2011, 04:49 PM

I have a bad feeling we may see Fenrir, as he is the only one we don't have a monster of/theory for.

Just thought that maybe he was destroyed when Shinryu took over the moon? Just an idea.

Yamimarik44

08-28-2011, 05:54 PM

I had actually been toying with this thought for a while and here's what I came up with.

It was mentioned earlier that it was Carbuncle's plan to create pacts between the five races and the Celestials to prevent their rejoining of the mothercrystals. However, now that Karaha-Buraha and the Champions of Abyssea (read: Vana'dielian Adventurers) are gone and their Summoners with them, the Celestials of Abyssea likely went on a field day.

Pacts are apparently a strong thing with Avatars of all kinds. If not for Nag'molada keeping the pact between the Kuluu and Bahamut (as seen during the CoP 2-5), Bahamut would have destroyed Riverne after appeared and summong Vrtra, Tiamat, and company. Fenrir likely wouldn't have saved Windurst during the Great War either, if not for Karaha and his strong ties to the current Sibyl.

However, the Celestials in Abyssea are likely just running amok for the sake of it. Ever have that feeling where you just wanna lie in bed all day, do nothing, play some FFXI? The Celestials are asleep for millenia and you want them to get up and work? Pffffft. Shinryu is already extradorinarly close to executing their plan for them, so what do they have to do? They might help him along by attempting to destroy the resistance a bit, but the end is neigh, in their eyes, so why not have some fun before Paradise is returned? I mean, it's not like they can go on killing sprees when there's nothing to kill.

Also, remember, not all Celestials are roamers in Abyssea areas. Some are stuck between Abyssea and Vana'dial as Voidwalkers. Which leads me to wonder what happened to Abyssea's Dynamis if Diabolos was similarly corrupt and is a Voidwalker. I have a bad feeling we may see Fenrir, as he is the only one we don't have a monster of/theory for. Bahamut, as someone said, was likely destroyed by Shinryu, Carbuncle said 'Eff it.' The way I see it, actually, Adventurers shouldn't be able to summon in Abyssea for above reasons, unless Avatars can transend dimentional barriers as well. I suppose you could argue that, since Abyssean Avatars can Voidwalk, Vana'dielian Avatars can transcend dimensions. But then that brings up an interesting point: Why is it only the Adventurers of Vana'dial are the only ones that care about Abyssea? You'd think that the Terrestrials would know about it and would want to do something. *shrug*

What I would like to know is what happened to Abyssean Kuluu and why they're even more corrupt as well. In addition to that, and maybe I just haven't done enough quests within Abyssea (realistically, I've done like, four, aside from mega boss quests >.< ), I'd like to know what happened to the Abyssean Beastmen. Surely they met the same fate as the five races, but their story is largely (read: completely) left out. And what of the Mithran Homeland (why can no one remember what it's called? thought it started with a 'G'...), Aht Urghan, and the Far East? Am I leaving out a continent to the west and/or the homeland of the Orcs/Gigas to the north? MOAR CAVERNOUS MAWS PLS. :D

As I'm typing this, I'm answering my own question, but left it up for conversation sake. The Tonberries blindly follow Promaithia and have likely recognized his advent via Shinryu and aligned themselves with him. Sucks for them that they get wiped out when he finishes reforming the mothercrystals.

Also, I understand the need for the mechanic of Relic armor in place in Dynamis, but since it's clearly stated many times the Empire stayed out of the war, why is it the armor of the elite Immortals (you know, the ones that don't go anywhere or do anything without command? likely, this Immortal would have been GIVING the orders), the best court entertainers (c'mon, us PUPs don't much like war...) , and Ephramaudian descendents (aren't they too busy leading a rebellion?) show up in Dynamis areas? I can understand some deserters/travellers...but it's HIGHLY unlikely that the 'best of the best of the best, SIR' decided to travel to Xarcabard and die. I fully understand the reason DNC and SCH gear is there and why it just decided to show up after WotG took place.

Thoughts? Ideas?

^ This man right here as MANY of the questions I'd love to see answered!

Darkzeru

08-28-2011, 05:55 PM

Why do mandies sometime duck into the ground while fighting them? (unless that's some sort of glitch)

SpankWustler

08-28-2011, 06:16 PM

Why do mandies sometime duck into the ground while fighting them? (unless that's some sort of glitch)

It seems to be their guard animation. If the guard animation for players was equally awesome, maybe the skill wouldn't be a total waste.

Yamimarik44

08-28-2011, 06:18 PM

Why do mandies sometime duck into the ground while fighting them? (unless that's some sort of glitch)

Yeah I've noticed this too, and it's usually when they're guarding, also it goes a long with They're Mandragora's they come from the ground, so they would naturally go under to guard from an attack.

Xellith

08-28-2011, 08:55 PM

Just thought that maybe he was destroyed when Shinryu took over the moon? Just an idea.

I doubt this to be the case. The avatars get their power from the particular element that exists. Just because you dont see them doesnt meant they arnt there. Im going to go and say that the moon still exists so fenrir is somewhere. He is probobly in the full moon fountain. Didnt fenrir have something to do with the keeper of apocalypse? I forget what happened it was so many years ago.

(stupid SE realeasing mini updates so you forget what you started)

With regards to what i read about we shouldnt really be able to summon avatars in abyssea - i have to disagree with this. We are imbued with some of the avatars strength when we make the pact. We carry a portion of the avatars power with us always.

Matty

08-28-2011, 10:46 PM

Its said by several NPCs (noticeably the ladybug wing quest) that many species were hunted to extinction and that is why they are no longer around. Some species like colibri could be migratory and according to the game just might not be in the zone at the time but might return at another season.

I could've sworn somewhere it mentioned colibri were native to the near east, like Apkallus or Mamool Ja. But I'm probably remembering wrong. :P

Ank

08-29-2011, 01:35 AM

As far as fenrir, its quite possible that abyssea's you never restored karaha's and fenrirs spirits.

and as for the roaming avatars.. well its a little weird, they're all celestials except carby in la theine, and the void walkers are duplicates except diabolos. like say, pavan in konschtat and gamayun in grauberg. Are these seperate entities? Further avatars of the unseen primes? If the mothercrystal is destroyed and the end times are come, why avatars and not the primes?

Furthermore, what about that campaign guy that seems to have a permanent ifrit pet named something else, is that an avatar of ifrit?

Sparthos

08-29-2011, 02:58 AM

I had actually been toying with this thought for a while and here's what I came up with.

It was mentioned earlier that it was Carbuncle's plan to create pacts between the five races and the Celestials to prevent their rejoining of the mothercrystals. However, now that Karaha-Buraha and the Champions of Abyssea (read: Vana'dielian Adventurers) are gone and their Summoners with them, the Celestials of Abyssea likely went on a field day.

I see it a bit differently.

Abyssea is supposed to be a parallel universe and many of the same individuals we know in Vana'diel maintain their names so why would the celestials and terrestrials suddenly have different names?

Promathia is still known on Abyssea as Promathia and many individuals invoke Altana's name in their dialogue.

Pacts are apparently a strong thing with Avatars of all kinds. If not for Nag'molada keeping the pact between the Kuluu and Bahamut (as seen during the CoP 2-5), Bahamut would have destroyed Riverne after appeared and summong Vrtra, Tiamat, and company. Fenrir likely wouldn't have saved Windurst during the Great War either, if not for Karaha and his strong ties to the current Sibyl.

The question to be raised is why Diabolos and Carbuncle would merely sit aside and roam zones instead of mounting an effective counter-attack against Promathia?

Even if we assume Bahamut to be defeated and Phoenix devoured (as she was part of Sel'theus), the remaining 3 terrestrials would be destroyed with the rest of Abyssea if Promathia reunited crystals and destroyed the planet.

It just doesn't make sense for them to merely randomly attack adventurers.

It is more likely that the "avatars" we see roaming are merely elemental beasts that now roam the land due to the sheer devastation wrought by Promathia. This would be similar to the same tactic used by SE with Gariri in Campaign and her Flame Giant.

Gariri's dialogue: Ah, the Fates have brought you to Gariri the Magnificent! Why am I thus called, you ask? Why, because only I was magnificent enough to decryptify those mysteriously marvelous Near eastern tomes and open a window to...the Other Side!

While the giant may look like Ifrit (for the sake of SE saving money on models), it is an elemental beast she summoned through near eastern magics and not a fragment of celestial avatar power.

However, the Celestials in Abyssea are likely just running amok for the sake of it. Ever have that feeling where you just wanna lie in bed all day, do nothing, play some FFXI? The Celestials are asleep for millenia and you want them to get up and work? Pffffft. Shinryu is already extradorinarly close to executing their plan for them, so what do they have to do? They might help him along by attempting to destroy the resistance a bit, but the end is neigh, in their eyes, so why not have some fun before Paradise is returned? I mean, it's not like they can go on killing sprees when there's nothing to kill.

If the celestials were awake, why would they manifest themselves in multiple forms rather than be complete and fight at full strength? Also, why would Jala then be called Ogopogo in another zone? Even if we assumed that the names of the celestials are different in Abyssea, multiple names put the celestials theory into serious question.

Further, this also assumes that Carbuncles tactic of allowing the celestials to experience Vana'diel through the summoners has completely failed.

Also, remember, not all Celestials are roamers in Abyssea areas. Some are stuck between Abyssea and Vana'dial as Voidwalkers. Which leads me to wonder what happened to Abyssea's Dynamis if Diabolos was similarly corrupt and is a Voidwalker. I have a bad feeling we may see Fenrir, as he is the only one we don't have a monster of/theory for. Bahamut, as someone said, was likely destroyed by Shinryu, Carbuncle said 'Eff it.' The way I see it, actually, Adventurers shouldn't be able to summon in Abyssea for above reasons, unless Avatars can transend dimentional barriers as well. I suppose you could argue that, since Abyssean Avatars can Voidwalk, Vana'dielian Avatars can transcend dimensions. But then that brings up an interesting point: Why is it only the Adventurers of Vana'dial are the only ones that care about Abyssea? You'd think that the Terrestrials would know about it and would want to do something. *shrug*

This is something I think SE didn't really think through. Even if we assume Bahamut to be defeated, the terrestrials should have at least mounted an offensive given they would have known about the Keeper of the Apocalypse and his ultimate aim.

What I would like to know is what happened to Abyssean Kuluu and why they're even more corrupt as well. In addition to that, and maybe I just haven't done enough quests within Abyssea (realistically, I've done like, four, aside from mega boss quests >.< ), I'd like to know what happened to the Abyssean Beastmen. Surely they met the same fate as the five races, but their story is largely (read: completely) left out. And what of the Mithran Homeland (why can no one remember what it's called? thought it started with a 'G'...), Aht Urghan, and the Far East? Am I leaving out a continent to the west and/or the homeland of the Orcs/Gigas to the north? MOAR CAVERNOUS MAWS PLS. :D

The mothercrystals are in the middle lands and thus while Aht, Gho Naboeh (sp?) and the Far East were likely not outright destroyed, they all must know of the destruction in the middle lands.

Tenzen failed to report back meaning emptiness is still distracting them from the true threat, Shikaree Zs disappearance means that the Mithra are unaware of the information she gleamed from the Al'taieu expedition and Aht Urhgan is likely so caught up in their wars against the beastmen that they see the monsters overwhelming the middle lands as a boon to their expansionist aims.

Then again, you'd think everyone on Vana'diel would notice the moon inching towards the planet.

Wolfandre

08-29-2011, 03:39 AM

I see it a bit differently.

Abyssea is supposed to be a parallel universe and many of the same individuals we know in Vana'diel maintain their names so why would the celestials and terrestrials suddenly have different names?

Promathia is still known on Abyssea as Promathia and many individuals invoke Altana's name in their dialogue.

The question to be raised is why Diabolos and Carbuncle would merely sit aside and roam zones instead of mounting an effective counter-attack against Promathia?

Even if we assume Bahamut to be defeated and Phoenix devoured (as she was part of Sel'theus), the remaining 3 terrestrials would be destroyed with the rest of Abyssea if Promathia reunited crystals and destroyed the planet.

It just doesn't make sense for them to merely randomly attack adventurers.

It is more likely that the "avatars" we see roaming are merely elemental beasts that now roam the land due to the sheer devastation wrought by Promathia. This would be similar to the same tactic used by SE with Gariri in Campaign and her Flame Giant.

If the celestials were awake, why would they manifest themselves in multiple forms rather than be complete and fight at full strength? Also, why would Jala then be called Ogopogo in another zone? Even if we assumed that the names of the celestials are different in Abyssea, multiple names put the celestials theory into serious question.

Further, this also assumes that Carbuncles tactic of allowing the celestials to experience Vana'diel through the summoners has completely failed.

The mothercrystals are in the middle lands and thus while Aht, Gho Naboeh (sp?) and the Far East were likely not outright destroyed, they all must know of the destruction in the middle lands.

Tenzen failed to report back meaning emptiness is still distracting them from the true threat, Shikaree Zs disappearance means that the Mithra are unaware of the information she gleamed from the Al'taieu expedition and Aht Urhgan is likely so caught up in their wars against the beastmen that they see the monsters overwhelming the middle lands as a boon to their expansionist aims.

Then again, you'd think everyone on Vana'diel would notice the moon inching towards the planet.

There is truth in this, but someone also brought up the Tribune articles regarding the Avatars: the layman doesn't know about the Celestials/Terrestrials. The only ones that do (researches at the Rhinostery and the Champions of Abyssea) were likely wiped out. So we can assume that these Avatars ARE the Celestials, but they find themselves with differing names based upon survivors' accounts.

I mean, look at notorious monsters in general. They didn't name themselves. Adventurers, travellers, and lesser monsters named them that because of what they do, their accomplishments, or what they are. Otherwise, they'd just be the same monsters, but with tougher stats.

As for Diabolos and Carbuncle...with the absence of Dynamis and rainbows, one can guess that the Emptiness is now so deep seated that it is affecting even the purest of beings. Or, since we only see Diabolos as a Voidwalker, maybe he's trying to escape Abyssea, or is merely a corrupt echo of him like we see in Dreamland zones. No idea on Carbuncle/Akash, however. We can probably guess that limules, and caturae and such were also products of Emptiness or the relocation of the Empyreal Paradox.

Wouldn't Aht Urghan have been destroyed because of that whole deal with Odin and Alexander? I dunno, it's been a long time since I went through that story, so I can't quite place it.

Urthdigger

08-29-2011, 04:15 AM

I really think that those mobs are simply elemental beasts that share a model. It makes a lot more sense that way.

Sparthos

08-29-2011, 04:50 AM

There is truth in this, but someone also brought up the Tribune articles regarding the Avatars: the layman doesn't know about the Celestials/Terrestrials. The only ones that do (researches at the Rhinostery and the Champions of Abyssea) were likely wiped out. So we can assume that these Avatars ARE the Celestials, but they find themselves with differing names based upon survivors' accounts.

I mean, look at notorious monsters in general. They didn't name themselves. Adventurers, travellers, and lesser monsters named them that because of what they do, their accomplishments, or what they are. Otherwise, they'd just be the same monsters, but with tougher stats.

Except you aren't a layman and you would know the names of the creatures parading themselves around as avatars. It just doesn't make sense for you to witness Jala in Scars of Abyssea as Leviathan then travel to Uleguerand and meet the same Leviathan now called Ogopogo.

Further, the celestials running around as average mooks to be mowed down by the adventurer completes goes against the lore surrounding them. While you are powered up by the transfer to Abyssea, it'd make no sense for celestials to be so easily dispatched.

Wouldn't Aht Urghan have been destroyed because of that whole deal with Odin and Alexander? I dunno, it's been a long time since I went through that story, so I can't quite place it.

ToAU takes place after the events of CoP so we're left to assume that the conflict in Aht never happens.

Karbuncle

08-29-2011, 05:12 AM

I'm willing to bet those Avatars you see are not the true avatars, Simply their Essence/presence leaking/broken out of the Crystals. As what Sparthos said, Those Avatars are suppose to be so powerful that if awoken, Vana'diel would return to its primeval state.

Since theres multiple instances of those avatars, I definitely place my bet on them being just leaked consciousness. Its not hard to guess the Protocrystals of Avatars might have been damaged in Abyssea.

Tatts

08-29-2011, 06:37 AM

I may have not done enough Abyssea Quests, but what does the marking on Zeid's forehead mean? Is it the mark he bore when he became a Dark Knight?

Also, Drogaroga's Spine: Was it really a giant beast or is it just another power conduit that wasn't built properly underground? It shows to go under the castle where you can grab the Magicite?

Now, I read the entire thread so I may started mashing together posts, but someone regarded the Temple of Uglypies as a Zilart civilization, it's actually a Kuluuian settlement, with the Tonberries being the said Kuluu.

Someone also asked why Mithra women were the ones out here being bros and it wasn't because the males were weak or easily pushed over, it's mainly because there's just a lack of quantity of Male Mithras which made them become the Housewife for population control. It's as if Sparta was run by Women instead of Men.

Edited for Kuluu spelling :|

Eurell

08-29-2011, 06:47 AM

I may have not done enough Abyssea Quests, but what does the marking on Zeid's forehead mean? Is it the mark he bore when he became a Dark Knight?

Also, Drogaroga's Spine: Was it really a giant beast or is it just another power conduit that wasn't built properly underground? It shows to go under the castle where you can grab the Magicite?

Now, I read the entire thread so I may started mashing together posts, but someone regarded the Temple of Uglypies as a Zilart civilization, it's actually a Kulluian settlement, with the Tonberries being the said Kullu.

Someone also asked why Mithra women were the ones out here being bros and it wasn't because the males were weak or easily pushed over, it's mainly because there's just a lack of quantity of Male Mithras which made them become the Housewife for population control. It's as if Sparta was run by Women instead of Men.

Zeid's mark is explained in the Bastok WoTG Questline. I forget exactly what its from, but they do talk about it a bit.

Drogaroga's spine is just another conduit. Theres a CS (I think ZM4) that actually shows it powered up and stuff.

Urthdigger

08-29-2011, 06:55 AM

Rule of thumb: Id it's made out of cermet (that white stuff the crags are made out of) it's probably part of the crystal line.

Also, Zeid's mark is a self-inflicted wound, the mark of the squad he was a part of. They were all slaughtered by the beastmen during the crystal war, while the nearby hume squad simply sat, watched, and did nothing.

Eurell

08-29-2011, 09:13 AM

Salvation

08-29-2011, 09:23 AM

Where does the Olduum civilization fit into the story line? The remnants of their technology we find scattered about the Aht Urhgan areas seem to indicate they were highly advanced. What happened to them?

SpankWustler

08-29-2011, 09:39 AM

It's pretty safe to assume that Odin and Alexander did what Odin and Alexander do over and over, and the Olduum civilization got wrecked by it.

Then again, Vana'Diel faces two extinction-level events every month so I guess it could be anything.

Tatts

08-29-2011, 10:43 AM

SpankWustler

08-29-2011, 10:53 AM

Well the reason Olduum was advanced because there was a sage called Ramuh who came to town and spread his knowledge. There was a particular machine that was able to predict earthquakes but the Olduumians didn't believe it. When the earthquake happened, lot of ppl died and they blamed Ramuh for not warning them. He gtfo'd and they rejected his technology since then, which explains the ruins/beaten up tech.
Those who survived most likely are today's Aht Urgan citizens after they rebuilt w/out Ramuh's tech.

I always thought that was more mythology than fact, given the tone of the NPCs who talked about Olduum and the mention of a sage who shares a name with an avatar. Since the ruins are currently buried or partially buried, though, a massive earthquake makes a lot of sense. I guess I should have more faith in the eccentric, elderly NPCs of FFXI.

Urthdigger

08-29-2011, 11:37 AM

Was it the Crystal War? Or even earlier? Considering everyone knew him as Zeid the mythril Musketeer during the crystal war.

It was during the early part of the crystal war.

Tatts

08-29-2011, 11:51 AM

Sparthos

08-29-2011, 12:23 PM

Oh, I have something that I wish to know more about, If Abyssea and Vana'Diel parralled, at least up until CoP, why were Abysseans able to enter Vunkrel and Grauberg? From what we see it looks like those two zones came out of the war unscathed. Was this explained or was it an excuse to reuse two past zones?

There is no real reason that we couldn't visit those zones in the present as both areas still exist. Grauberg is the highland area bordering Konschtat and Vunkerl appears to be the area where the river that runs through Carpenter's Landing empties into the sea.

So yes, it's just because SE wanted to reuse two WOTG zones for Abyssea.

noodles355

08-29-2011, 01:04 PM

Easilly the most epic thread on the whole forum. Should be a sticky.

noodles355

08-29-2011, 01:19 PM

Ok here's one. whats the difference between Evasion+1 and Evasion Skill+1.
Does Evasion Skill work the same as Accuracy and +1 is +0.9 after 200 skill? Or is it like Attack and 1=1 always?

Arcon

08-29-2011, 02:42 PM

Ok here's one. whats the difference between Evasion+1 and Evasion Skill+1.
Does Evasion Skill work the same as Accuracy and +1 is +0.9 after 200 skill? Or is it like Attack and 1=1 always?

http://forum.square-enix.com/ffxi/threads/12719-What-is-the-difference-between-Evasion-skill-and-Evasion

noodles355

08-29-2011, 06:52 PM

Arcon

08-30-2011, 12:11 AM

Nice info. I had assumed it would likely be 0.9 after 200 like Accuracy, but my oh my there was some "interesting" shouts in PJ this morning. Eva skill is like a cup, and eva is like filling the cup. It's best to use eva skill+ after you cap eva+. And so on lol.

Nothing compared to what people say about TH or about Haste, etc. Some people are just like that. snopes.com should have a section about FFXI.

Sparthos

08-30-2011, 12:33 AM

Nothing compared to what people say about TH or about Haste, etc. Some people are just like that. snopes.com should have a section about FFXI.

If you run into a Gobs arm when it readies Bomb Toss, it will drop the bomb every time.

Arcon

08-30-2011, 12:52 AM

If you run into a Gobs arm when it readies Bomb Toss, it will drop the bomb every time.

Same if you provoke it at the right time. And when you run behind it when it does Goblin Rush it has a greater chance to miss.

Septimus

08-31-2011, 04:55 AM

All of the expansions up until Wings of the Goddess flow from what came before it.

So Aht Urhgan is fine because our Abyssean counterparts probably didn't get to do a lot of Limbus.

Invader

09-01-2011, 03:40 AM

... So Aht Urhgan is fine because our Abyssean counterparts probably didn't get to do a lot of Limbus.
Lucky them :x

Septimus

09-01-2011, 05:49 AM

Lucky them :x

Not really that lucky. Promathia was still planning on destroying the entire planet. They just wouldn't have get their faces exploded all over before it happened had we not stopped him.

Sparthos

09-01-2011, 07:56 AM

Not really that lucky. Promathia was still planning on destroying the entire planet. They just wouldn't have get their faces exploded all over before it happened had we not stopped him.

The entire planet should have been aware of the crisis in the middle lands given the sky turning crimson? The disappearance of Shikaree Z and Tenzen at least would have their nations aware of the impending disaster.

Also, is the planet behind Shinryu Abyssea?

Septimus

09-01-2011, 09:12 AM

The entire planet should have been aware of the crisis in the middle lands given the sky turning crimson? The disappearance of Shikaree Z and Tenzen at least would have their nations aware of the impending disaster.

Also, is the planet behind Shinryu Abyssea?

The other nations were also aware of the danger posed by the Shadow Lord and didn't do anything. I would chalk that up to a lazy, helpless population that can't tie its own shoelaces without adventurers. (Like most RPGs.)

And yeah, that would probably be Abyssea since the Paradox hovers over its moon and the ring of the Mother Crystals surrounded both. (Which is why we can see the moon but not the sun there.)

Karbuncle

09-01-2011, 12:13 PM

Why are there level ~10NMs immune to Gravity, Bind, Sleep, Stun, and Terror?

Where is the logic in that. a few of those things aren't even accessible til 30+, 1 of them until ~60+. Did they feel Making it immune to Terror would stop the level 75BST from Killing it >_>?

Just bringing this up because, i ran up to Duke decapod, Used Feral Howl and it missed, I'm like.. "Why?" then i one-shotted it. What purposes do those immunities serve?

AyinDygra

09-01-2011, 12:57 PM

What IS Absolute Virtue? (not how do you kill it)

(more detailed version of the above question and more questions hidden here! Maybe plot spoiler stuff.)

Sparthos

09-01-2011, 01:12 PM

My main evidence against Dark Ixion and Auroral Alicorn being avatars is the fact that they actually fall to the ground in their defeat animations.

All of the other avatars simply dismiss themselves. The idea of taking pieces of Dark Ixion (horn, tail) as trophies also leads me to the conclusion that it and the Alicorn are more legendary monsters than terrestrial avatars.

On Phoenix:

It seems like terrestrial avatars do not have infinite energy within the lore of FFXI.

Fenrir has been weakened in the past, Bahamut needed to gather energy during CoP before launching his attack and Diabolos has proven himself to have limitations so it isn't a huge stretch to believe that Phoenix needed energy from sacrifices in order to regain herself.

I also suspect that irony is at play, with the fiery bird of resurrection being unable to revive herself and all.

Jandel

09-02-2011, 01:33 AM

Superbe thread :O

Does anyone know where the water flowing through Ru'Aun Gardens come from?

I don't think it's actually possible that somethimes will rain... But who knows?

HamIngram

09-02-2011, 11:10 AM

It's said that most of the races originated in or at least near the Middle Lands (orc/gigas/mithra aside), along with being the historical playground of the gods.

So just how did a gigantic chunk of the population (Yagudo included) manage flock east (Aradjiah, Far East) to establish multiple civilizations, develop magic and relatively advanced technology on their own, and wage age-long wars all while being completely unnoticed/unscathed by the Middle Lands OR most of the gods' shenanigans? Especially in such a short amount of time?

I mean, they must've been some seriously stealthy nin-... oh god, I just answered my own question. The Far East suddenly makes a lot more sense to me now.

OK.... what killed the dinosaurs in Mindartia? Or... who?

Septimus

09-02-2011, 11:59 AM

HamIngram

09-02-2011, 03:26 PM

Huh, didn't consider the 10,000 years. Beats the tar outta assuming everything happened in the *700* years or so worth of recorded history, especially coming from old timelines I read that are ancient and probably long-retconned (or was simply vague enough to purposely expand upon later). That, and Odin and Alexander's sour relationship probably wrecked a civilization or two out of the annals of history anyways.

9000+ years with magic largely being an arcane and unknown thing then, huh? That's gotta have some seriously cool material to offer in terms of story fluff.

On the subject of races, what's Megomix's deal? Between him and his frightening Khimairas(Khimariae?), his homeland sounds like they got the shaft considering they're just stuck with the measly and genetically enhanced Bugbears. Is Megomix and his Moblin buddies over in Halvung in cahoots with his brethren in Movalpolos, or is he an independent party reaping the benefits of Aht Urghan's secrets? ...Or are the Bugbears in Movalpolos the result of Megomix's research imported from his time with the Trolls?

...wish we had more story about the non-Crystal War Beastmen in general, other than simply being bad guys we have to fight. They're cool.

noodles355

09-02-2011, 03:41 PM

SE could literally release a huge book of FFXI lore, covering all the sorts of things coming up in this thread, and make a mint. I know I'd sure as hell buy one (especially if it had pretty pictures)

Juri_Licious

09-02-2011, 03:41 PM

SE could literally release a huge book of FFXI lore, covering all the sorts of things coming up in this thread, and make a mint. I know I'd sure as hell buy one (especially if it had pretty pictures)

Really, this would be an excellent purchase.
Like a databook pretty much.

SpankWustler

09-02-2011, 09:54 PM

Think of it like this. It has been about 10,000 years since the Meltdown, we have about 10,000 years of recorded human history on Earth. Every corner of Vana'diel is populated, every corner of Earth is populated. They have magic, but we have more advanced technology. I would say looking at real life as a guideline, Vana'diel is about on par with Earth devlopment-wise.

And if I could post a picture of the giant brain from Futurama, I would shop him into Tahrongi Canyon for you.

Taking that amount of time into perspective makes things make a lot more sense. Especially considering the huge theological differences between the groups of Yagudo, which seems like the sort of thing that would require a history beyond remembered generations.

Also, I believe the races of Beastmen who could easily smash the five races in a more primitive time all lived somewhere far, far away originally. It all comes together in a way.

Karbuncle

09-02-2011, 09:58 PM

And if I could post a picture of the giant brain from Futurama, I would shop him into Tahrongi Canyon for you.

http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/io9/2011/04/futurama_fry_brainspawn.jpg

"Hahaha! The Big Brain am winning again! I am the greetest! And now, I leave earth for no raisin!

Nianny

09-02-2011, 10:30 PM

SE could literally release a huge book of FFXI lore, covering all the sorts of things coming up in this thread, and make a mint. I know I'd sure as hell buy one (especially if it had pretty pictures)

I'd defenitly buy one right away and I have the impression many others would too. Let's hope it happens someday! :)

AyinDygra

09-02-2011, 10:43 PM

SE could literally release a huge book of FFXI lore, covering all the sorts of things coming up in this thread, and make a mint. I know I'd sure as hell buy one (especially if it had pretty pictures)

I'm kinda holding out hope that they kinda add the lore of the game... into the game... I know, crazy thought.

Eurell

09-02-2011, 11:16 PM

I'm kinda holding out hope that they kinda add the lore of the game... into the game... I know, crazy thought.

There's a ton of quests and stuff that give lots of lore and background into tons of things. Almost everything people know about the lore of the game did come from the game lol.

Jandel

09-03-2011, 01:05 AM

SpankWustler

09-03-2011, 01:35 AM

Were there settlement of other races before the empire was founded?

If you can trust what some of the Mamool Ja imply, they were the first in the area by a long shot. I know that the Lamia exist because of the empire and that the trolls came into the area around the same time or later, though.

As for the five races, I'm not sure. There doesn't seem to be anywhere near the amount of casual racist between the five races in Aht Urghan that exists in the Western areas, so it's not mentioned often. I guess that's because they can all get together and be overtly racist towards Qiqirn.

Septimus will probably come in and prove me at least half-wrong about everything except the racism. That bro's memory is super-human.

Septimus

09-03-2011, 04:41 AM

Adding questions...

Is the empire of Aht Urghan founded by hume?

It's seems so (beeing the empress a hume) so how the people spread in those lands?

Were there settlement of other races before the empire was founded?

When was founded? XD

P.s. Are out there quest as beautiful as the five serpent generals' quest? (Not storyline/mission quest)

I don't know if there is a definitive answer to who founded the empire and when, but I would imagine that it would have been Humes. They seem to pass down the title of Emperor or Empress along a family line, the family now is Hume, and Hume is the most populace race in Vana'diel.

I am not sure if it was there first or not, but the Kingdom of Ephramad was in the area a long, long time ago. As for when it was founded, the answer is probably a good clip over 884 years ago, that was the last Ragnarok, when Emperor Alzadaal's Alexander fought with Odin and the start of the Crystal Era. (Now if it was one continuous line or not, that is a different question.) As for how people spread to those lands? Just like the real world, people are pretty much everywhere. It is possible that the Empire was motivated by the Olduum ruins in their search for technology to create a vessel for Alexander.

Outside of missions, I think that the Adventuring Fellow quests are close contenders to the Serpent General quests in terms of story quality, memorability, and visual excellence. I have a very strong connection to my Adventuring Fellows because those quests were so well written.

If you can trust what some of the Mamool Ja imply, they were the first in the area by a long shot. I know that the Lamia exist because of the empire and that the trolls came into the area around the same time or later, though.

As for the five races, I'm not sure. There doesn't seem to be anywhere near the amount of casual racist between the five races in Aht Urghan that exists in the Western areas, so it's not mentioned often. I guess that's because they can all get together and be overtly racist towards Qiqirn.

Septimus will probably come in and prove me at least half-wrong about everything except the racism. That bro's memory is super-human.

The Mammol Ja can claim that they were there in the area before the Empire all they want, but Olduum certainly predates them. It predates pretty much everything. (We never really got a satisfying answer to what it was.) But if they want to claim "Our ancestors were here first", the races of Altana have them beat for sure.

SpankWustler

09-03-2011, 06:01 AM

The Mammol Ja can claim that they were there in the area before the Empire all they want, but Olduum certainly predates them. It predates pretty much everything. (We never really got a satisfying answer to what it was.) But if they want to claim "Our ancestors were here first", the races of Altana have them beat for sure.

From what I recall, they mention the empire and "those darn smoothskins in our backyard!" as if the two are one and the same so I would suspect they haven't been there long enough to know Olduum existed. That, and it seems like a technological society capable of controlling lightning would pretty much decimate an overly aggressive lizard society capable of controlling...less intelligent and somewhat less bipedal lizards.

Septimus

09-03-2011, 07:04 AM

From what I recall, they mention the empire and "those darn smoothskins in our backyard!" as if the two are one and the same so I would suspect they haven't been there long enough to know Olduum existed. That, and it seems like a technological society capable of controlling lightning would pretty much decimate an overly aggressive lizard society capable of controlling...less intelligent and somewhat less bipedal lizards.

From what Doctor Shantotto said, the Olduum ruins in the Aydeewa Subterrane seem to pre-date the Horutoto Ruins. Meaning that they are from the Zilart era or earlier. Sadly, this was never expanded upon.

But like I said, if they Mammol Ja are trying a "we were here first" argument, the Humes can retort with a "well our predecessors (the Zilart) already licked it so it is ours". Beastmen didn't happen until after the Meltdown, the races of Altana evolved from the Zilart who existed before the Meltdown, so basically we already licked it. No takesy-backsies.

Ziyyigo-Tipyigo

09-03-2011, 04:21 PM

Here's a mystery: How does Mayakov lisp a silent S?

SpankWustler

09-03-2011, 05:35 PM

But like I said, if they Mammol Ja are trying a "we were here first" argument, the Humes can retort with a "well our predecessors (the Zilart) already licked it so it is ours". Beastmen didn't happen until after the Meltdown, the races of Altana evolved from the Zilart who existed before the Meltdown, so basically we already licked it. No takesy-backsies.

Your explanations always give me amazing mental pictures. This is also totally true, especially considering there didn't seem to be any Zilart/Kuluu and later Zilart/Kuluu/five races tensions in that region that the Western lands have experienced.

Although I'd love more information on the warfare between nations in that region, since it's apparently as common as breakfast and bowel movements.

Xellith

09-03-2011, 11:28 PM

As for the five races, I'm not sure. There doesn't seem to be anywhere near the amount of casual racist between the five races in Aht Urghan that exists in the Western areas, so it's not mentioned often.

I would just like to point out that Vana'Diel (quon and mindartia continental area) are the middle lands. Not the western areas. The western lands are hinted at being native american in type with totem poles and the like. I know you meant the middle lands in your post but I figured I'd clear up that confusion for other people.

Arcon

09-03-2011, 11:55 PM

I would just like to point out that Vana'Diel (quon and mindartia continental area) are the middle lands. Not the western areas. The western lands are hinted at being native american in type with totem poles and the like. I know you meant the middle lands in your post but I figured I'd clear up that confusion for other people.

Technically, "west" is a relative direction, and if we're comparing it with Aht Urhgan, then the middle lands are indeed the Western areas.

Also, didn't they hint in the WotG storyline that the western civilization was an advanced society? I believe it's where the scholar's came from. I'm not sure on that, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.

Xellith

09-04-2011, 12:00 AM

Technically, "west" is a relative direction, and if we're comparing it with Aht Urhgan, then the middle lands are indeed the Western areas.

Also, didn't they hint in the WotG storyline that the western civilization was an advanced society? I believe it's where the scholar's came from. I'm not sure on that, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.

While I can agree with you in what you are saying - the game speaks a different language to us all. No matter where you are. Quon/mindartia = middle lands. If you are standing in Quon you are in the middle lands. Ive seen cutscenes that talk about the middle lands in reference to Quon/mindartia in the aht urghan story.

In regard to the WOTG storyline talking about an advanced society. Im afraid I can offer no insight into this as Ive not done all the missions yet. I gave up due to the stop-start method of the updates they gave us over 3 years. Waiting on some friends and going to try doing it but we play at weird times so its not going to be anytime soon.

But I know I've seen some furnishings that talk about the western lands (named Ulbuka) and I do believe one was a totem pole.

edited. added this

http://images.wikia.com/ffxi/images/a/a2/Totem_pole.jpg

Arcon

09-04-2011, 12:06 AM

But I know I've seen some furnishings that talk about the western lands (named Ulbuka) and I do believe one was a totem pole.

Interesting... maybe there's more than one civilization there? Kinda like the past North America, modern society with native tribes all around.

Xellith

09-04-2011, 12:33 AM

SpankWustler

09-04-2011, 03:24 AM

Considering that the tarutaru used to roam in tribes and had a very native american tribal kind of style. Im going to say that if they ever impliment an Ulbuka continent that the majority of the tribes are going to be tarutaru. Possibly warring tarutaru and hume tribes.

I can't help but imagine a primitive tribe of Tarutaru being the most miserable creatures to ever exist, if a primitive culture in Vana'Diel has limited use of magic. Given that even many vegetables in Vana'Diel are sentient and capable of melee combat, their starvation rate must be higher than the bros who lived in the American colonies.

Can you imagine waking up each morning knowing that you would have to wrestle a man-sized radish to death in order to eat?

Also, good catch on the areas we generally run around in being the middle lands. The Western areas are mentioned so rarely that I forgot there was even anything there.

Ank

09-04-2011, 03:31 AM

If you can trust what some of the Mamool Ja imply, they were the first in the area by a long shot.

Could be lying, could be perspective. I'm not too keen on empire/ephramad/olduum history but if the lizards snuck in after olduum but before the empire really took root it would seem to them that them hooms be stealing their lands.

Urthdigger

09-04-2011, 08:02 AM

Here's a mystery: How does Mayakov lisp a silent S?

I've theen him lithp an emote <thigh>

Ank

09-04-2011, 08:18 AM

I think they just wrote dialogue for him, then did a find and replace with all s's with th's

Xellith

09-04-2011, 08:58 AM

I can't help but imagine a primitive tribe of Tarutaru being the most miserable creatures to ever exist, if a primitive culture in Vana'Diel has limited use of magic. Given that even many vegetables in Vana'Diel are sentient and capable of melee combat, their starvation rate must be higher than the bros who lived in the American colonies.

Can you imagine waking up each morning knowing that you would have to wrestle a man-sized radish to death in order to eat?

Also, good catch on the areas we generally run around in being the middle lands. The Western areas are mentioned so rarely that I forgot there was even anything there.

http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Lungo-Nango

Dont mess with da taru.

Sparthos

09-05-2011, 01:28 AM

Covenant

09-06-2011, 05:02 AM

People need to crack the dictionary open and read the meaning of "Avatar". Avatars a basically a portion of the "God" not the Gods themselves. Gods tend to have a difficult time manifesting on our plane of existence. As do mortals have a hard time actually seeing Complete Gods manifested. Usually, in most literatures this would push a mortals sanity to the brink.

Phoenix isn't dead and has already revived itself, as noted by the single flame feather at the end of Promathia.

I'm truly fascinated by the other "unknown" continents and cultures suggested by the Wings storyline.

Shadotter

09-06-2011, 11:20 AM

I was under the impression that Pheonix had merged with Seltheus during the finale and that they weren't going to unmerge anytime soon.

Kojo

09-06-2011, 11:24 AM

Can you imagine waking up each morning knowing that you would have to wrestle a man-sized radish to death in order to eat?

I laughed so hard at that..

Sparthos

09-06-2011, 12:37 PM

I was under the impression that Pheonix had merged with Seltheus during the finale and that they weren't going to unmerge anytime soon.

This.

Pheonix was reborn in Sel'theus. Technically, he's a terrestrial avatar now.

Shadotter

09-07-2011, 06:02 AM

He always was a terrestial avatar.

MDenham

09-07-2011, 03:22 PM

He always was a terrestial avatar.The "he" was referring to Selh'teus, not Phoenix (BTW, Phoenix is female according to cutscenes).

Shadotter

09-07-2011, 04:47 PM

Does this make Sel'theus a hermaphrodite now?

SpankWustler

09-07-2011, 06:58 PM

Does this make Sel'theus a hermaphrodite now?

Some mysteries are better left unsolved.

But not this one! Give me a moment to find my speculum, tiny and awkwardly cold flashlight, and latex gloves; and I'm on my way to sea!

MDenham

09-07-2011, 09:03 PM

On a more serious note, why is it that there are no Evil Weapons in the past zones?

Karbuncle

09-07-2011, 09:17 PM

I Believe Evil Weapons were created very recently. Its in the DRK AF quests if i remember right

Xellith

09-08-2011, 12:34 AM

Gerwitz was the galka who forged powerful weapons using an rare type of galkan darksteel. Im asuming that these weapons were used as part of the Allied Force of Altana and that many have been lost or left on the battlefield. Many of these weapons have over time come to be possessed.

Evil weapons are granted a will of their own by the powerful energy of the Crystal Line. Evil weapons enslave spirits of the earth called kobolds to do their bidding. They are often spotted near Crags or other forms of Cermet, leading some to speculate that their powers are somehow connected with energy of the Mothercrystals, or otherwise associated with the Zilart.

Those who defeat them are rarely rewarded, if at all. Many evil weapons carry nothing on them, and only a few carry some occasionally needed specialty items, such as keys or maybe a scroll.

Coming in two varieties, Warriors or Red Mages, these strange looking monsters appear almost animalistic in nature due to the kobolds they have possessed, but the evil weapons themselves are arcana. The two jobs look the same and use the same weapon, but can be distinguished by their behavior, with the Red Mage variety able to cast spells.

Basically - the monster type "Evil Weapon". You arnt actually fighting the big ugly fly eyed fattys (They are the Kobolds). You are just defeating their puppet. The 'real' monster is the actual sword or other type of weapon flying overhead. That is the master.

Summary: There were no weapons strewn around the various crags to be turned into these monsters that we all know today.

Hope that helps ^^

SpankWustler

09-08-2011, 01:55 AM

So, the issue is the material and not the fact that they're weapons? If someone forged some cooking tools out of that same material, there could potentially be Evil Skillets, Decorative Spatulas, Dancing Whisks, and Demonic Egg Separators running about?

That sounds...kind of awesome, if so.

Sparthos

09-08-2011, 06:12 AM

The weapons material doesn't seem to make a difference as Tu'lia is strewn with evil weapons and was inactive right up until recently within the timeline of Vana'diel. Some of the weapons are floating staves carved of wood so apparently the weapon doesn't need to be metallic either.

The Zilart/Kuluu conflict would explain why weapons might be strewn about and then the activation of the island by Elde'narche in RotZ would have given them sentience. The question then becomes how Kobolds got up there to be possessed.

Xellith

09-08-2011, 07:02 AM

Well the kobolds are earthly spirits. They dont have to be literally earth bound. Its possible that they are everywhere - or that they were on the sky platform before sky actually was in the air since it was built on the ground then ascended. Also I dont think its the material involved. I think its just the emptyness within the crags themselves. All that energy is connected via the crystal line and its possible that the "evil energy" within the crags was carried along the crystal line and up through delkfutt to tu'lia.

I'm going to say that those possessed weapons are caused by the emptyness.

Alaik

09-08-2011, 07:19 AM

Haven't weapons always been a sign the planet has been in danger? Sure, Brigandish Blade isn't exactly the Ruby Weapon, but I always felt as though they were added by the crag lines to remind players of the storyline. Technically even if you aren't questing, someone is trying to free Promathia, etc.

Septimus

09-08-2011, 01:35 PM

Another reason why we don't see many weapons in the past, we aren't in the crag zones. That would be why there are no Evil Weapons in Abyssea, no crags anymore.

People need to crack the dictionary open and read the meaning of "Avatar". Avatars a basically a portion of the "God" not the Gods themselves. Gods tend to have a difficult time manifesting on our plane of existence. As do mortals have a hard time actually seeing Complete Gods manifested. Usually, in most literatures this would push a mortals sanity to the brink.

Phoenix isn't dead and has already revived itself, as noted by the single flame feather at the end of Promathia.

I'm truly fascinated by the other "unknown" continents and cultures suggested by the Wings storyline.

Phoenix merged with Selh'teus shortly before you got to Al'Taieu, which is why he was sporting wings and avatar glow in the Grand Palace of Hu'Xzoi cutscene.

So, the issue is the material and not the fact that they're weapons? If someone forged some cooking tools out of that same material, there could potentially be Evil Skillets, Decorative Spatulas, Dancing Whisks, and Demonic Egg Separators running about?

That sounds...kind of awesome, if so.

I so want you to write an expansion for this game after reading that.

Haven't weapons always been a sign the planet has been in danger? Sure, Brigandish Blade isn't exactly the Ruby Weapon, but I always felt as though they were added by the crag lines to remind players of the storyline. Technically even if you aren't questing, someone is trying to free Promathia, etc.

As far as I can remember, that only applies to Weapons in FFVII. In FFVI, the Ultima Weapon (or Atma for good time Woolsyisms) put the planet in peril.

SpankWustler

09-08-2011, 02:30 PM

I so want you to write an expansion for this game after reading that.

My creation would be more difficult than but equally accessible to Abyssea, with a story based around learning forbidden arts known only by Parike-Poranke. Obviously, we adventurers would use such knowledge to clean inter-dimensional debris from Atomos and fight or explore whatever fell out depending on the size.

It would have boring-as-sin side-quests that involved NPCs talking for a half-hour about Beastman theology or how cooking works in Vana'diel, because I am a sick and horrible man who loves that kind of stuff in fantasy worlds.

Septimus

09-08-2011, 03:35 PM

My creation would be more difficult than but equally accessible to Abyssea, with a story based around learning forbidden arts known only by Parike-Poranke. Obviously, we adventurers would use such knowledge to clean inter-dimensional debris from Atomos and fight or explore whatever fell out depending on the size.

It would have boring-as-sin side-quests that involved NPCs talking for a half-hour about Beastman theology or how cooking works in Vana'diel, because I am a sick and horrible man who loves that kind of stuff in fantasy worlds.

How about how Beastmen theologians cook? And the richness is what makes a fantasy world worth exploring, that is why Square has so many fans. That is why no matter how mad Fistule and Cloudsplitter may make me, I haven't given up on Vana'diel.

RabidSquirrel

09-08-2011, 04:56 PM

Why can't male Elvaan completely plant their left foot?

FANCY60

09-08-2011, 07:01 PM

i got 1 lol whats with the bolder blocking passage to byakko's island i know what its for but how come a drg that can jump meters up in the air cannot simply clear a bolder that is what 3-4ft high

SpankWustler

09-08-2011, 10:46 PM

How about how Beastmen theologians cook? And the richness is what makes a fantasy world worth exploring, that is why Square has so many fans. That is why no matter how mad Fistule and Cloudsplitter may make me, I haven't given up on Vana'diel.

That could be the secret use for Cloudsplitter! It's awful for combat, but may produce just the right heat for tempering Goblin chocolate.

Sparthos

09-08-2011, 11:19 PM

i got 1 lol whats with the bolder blocking passage to byakko's island i know what its for but how come a drg that can jump meters up in the air cannot simply clear a bolder that is what 3-4ft high

The real question is why the Groundskeepers haven't repaired that bridge collapse. For mindless drones, they seem to be failing at their programmed tasks.

MDenham

09-08-2011, 11:25 PM

The real question is why the Groundskeepers haven't repaired that bridge collapse. For mindless drones, they seem to be failing at their programmed tasks.Never mind that that's probably not their actual programmed task.

In fact, I'm pretty sure their programmed task is to EXTERMINATE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXS6TzxdeN4).

Fadnog

09-10-2011, 01:07 PM

SpankWustler

09-10-2011, 04:19 PM

I got another question, since the player can arguably be considered one of, if not, the strongest BLU in Vana'diel, in comparison to the NPCs at least, then why don't they succumb to the beast within, that all BLUs inevitably turn into? (And i mean storyline wise and not gameplay wise)

Adventurers are "special" in ways that are never really explained or addressed, in spite of being constantly mentioned. I assume it's the same inner light power chi force glow shining thing that pulls us through everything else and makes us different than NPCs in every other way that's convenient to the story.

If there's any value, trait, or feeling that can prevent someone from being overtaken by the beast within, an Adventurer has four billion of it starting at level one. You might not be able to beat a particularly spunky wild rabbit, but you can beat the pants off of your sub-conscious urges to turn into a Soulflayer and eat some delicious brains.

Jandel

09-10-2011, 05:34 PM

I think all player are blessed by Altana...
Maybe this stop all blu adventurer to transform!

Adventurer never really "die", they just "fall unconscious"...

Urthdigger

09-10-2011, 05:55 PM

Perhaps your unusually low "cobalt levels", which almost caused you to die in the infusing process, had a side effect of making you more resistant to corruption? As in, those levels make it easier both to survive the tranfusion process and to turn into a soulflayer?

Jandel

09-10-2011, 07:36 PM

Kimble

09-10-2011, 08:11 PM

The real question is why the Groundskeepers haven't repaired that bridge collapse. For mindless drones, they seem to be failing at their programmed tasks.

Well the real question is, if you look up as to wear the bride is at, its far below where the stair case is, so how did ht break, and then some how roll UP the stair case.

Sparthos

09-10-2011, 11:46 PM

I got another question, since the player can arguably be considered one of, if not, the strongest BLU in Vana'diel, in comparison to the NPCs at least, then why don't they succumb to the beast within, that all BLUs inevitably turn into? (And i mean storyline wise and not gameplay wise)

Plot Armor. Both you and Raubahn seem to the most powerful BLU on the planet yet it seems from his dialogue that Raubahn is having a hard time staying hume and a constant internal battle is going on. It doesn't help the previous emperor of Aht Urhgan Balhran is currently a face hugging Soulflayer either.

For the average NPC, the class sounds downright terrifying. Most of the various Blue Mages are either suffering from trauma, are slowly being devoured by the beast within or are unhinged maniacs who are nothing less than monsters in a cage of mortal flesh.

I'm pretty sure this is the reason that the arts of Blue Mage haven't spread beyond the lands of Aht Urhgan as other countries aren't keen on deploying units of mentally disturbed warriors who more than likely will collapse into a pool of flesh becoming Flans or have an unplanned transformation and become Soulflayers.

<3 Blue Mage.

Sparthos

09-10-2011, 11:49 PM

Well the real question is, if you look up as to wear the bride is at, its far below where the stair case is, so how did ht break, and then some how roll UP the stair case.

Wind gusts.

MDenham

09-11-2011, 12:17 AM

Wind gusts elementals.Something like this.

Economizer

09-11-2011, 12:25 AM

I was wondering...
Are tarutaru the most clever race in vana?

No, actually Chocobo are.

This song was reported to have been heard from a bunch of Chocobo as they flew off of Abyssea shortly before the sky turned to a lovely shade of Apocalypse. Keep in mind it was translated Kweh by Kweh, so forgive the survivors of The Abyssea Chocobo Society if it isn't correct word for word.

Jandel

09-11-2011, 01:18 AM

Where did you find this? It's awesome!

Sparthos

09-11-2011, 01:33 AM

No, actually Chocobo are.

This song was reported to have been heard from a bunch of Chocobo as they flew off of Abyssea shortly before the sky turned to a lovely shade of Apocalypse. Keep in mind it was translated Kweh by Kweh, so forgive the survivors of The Abyssea Chocobo Society if it isn't correct word for word.

Im relieved this wasn't a Fresh Prince parody. :D

Stylin

09-11-2011, 07:13 AM

Howcome there are no Galka Mithra or Tarutaru skeleton mobs?

Economizer

09-11-2011, 11:02 AM

Where did you find this? It's awesome!

Made a blatant rip off parody of So Long and Thanks for All the Fish. Er, like I said, the survivors of The Abyssea Chocobo Society.

Howcome there are no Galka Mithra or Tarutaru skeleton mobs?

I'm not sure about Mithra - those skeletons could lose their tails or something - a fate worse then death for a Mithra, but that's just rumor.

As for Galka, they reincarnate, and as for Tarutaru, they actually bury their dead in zombie proof containers, like any civilized people.

Sparthos

09-11-2011, 11:12 AM

Howcome there are no Galka Mithra or Tarutaru skeleton mobs?

Budgetary cuts.

A compromise lay in the fomor!

Shadotter

09-11-2011, 01:46 PM

Septimus

09-11-2011, 02:07 PM

For that matter, why are there only elvaan fomor? While most of them could arguably be fomor, a big difference should be the Hydra Corps who were a multi-race task force and therefore should have fomors of each race when fighting them.

Also, you can see several people in the plot of WotG that wield the various Relic weapons, however, I know of at least two (Kayeel-payeel and Fallen Coffin) who weren't part of the hyrdra corps, so how is it that their weapons made it into dynamis?

The in-game answer, the Hydra Corps was an international effort, but most of the rank-and-file members came from San d'Oria.

The probable real-life answer, it was just faster to program everyone as Elvaan since the Shadow family already existed.

Stylin

09-12-2011, 12:47 AM

For that matter, why are there only elvaan fomor?

I assume you've never been to the Phomiuna Aqueducts or The Sacrarium before?

Elexia

09-12-2011, 12:54 AM

I'm kinda holding out hope that they kinda add the lore of the game... into the game... I know, crazy thought.

Too bad popular game and movies release books that hold lore. Crazy that they'd expand the world beyond the game, I know.

Ank

09-12-2011, 02:23 AM

There are two "shadow" families. Regular "shadows" which are just elvaans, and fomors which I believe were added with cop - though if hydra are actually fomors like wiki seems to claim I'm slightly less sure. A lot of people seem to forget that shadows aren't fomors, though.

In any event, at least elvaan shadows in tav makes some sense.

Elexia

09-12-2011, 02:54 AM

Urthdigger

09-12-2011, 03:22 AM

The question is, what are Fomors? Are they undead beings or just mere cursed beings? Reason being, if Galkas reincarnate, how are there Fomor Galkas? This is also why they should have just sucked it up and released Necromancer over PUP, since there's clearly a lot of Necromancy going on in Vanadiel.

Aside game classification of being undead, the Hydra in Dynamis tend to be considered corrupted and not so much undead. Also if I recall there was a lore book released in Japan either during or shortly after CoP's launch, they could release another one.

Something I recall hearing once... and I'd really hate if this was true, is that a FFXI book released in Japan mentioned how the galka only reincarnate if they reach old age and decide to. If they die a violent death, they are merely dead. Essentially, this would mean they have a finite number that's always dwindling from mine accidents, beastmen attacks, and other such things. Especially sad when you think of how twice in the WotG quests it shows squads made entirely of galka who got slaughtered to the man. It really is the saddest, most terrible thing ever.

Eurell

09-12-2011, 03:24 AM

Soidisant

09-12-2011, 04:42 AM

They're also drainable/aspirable. Well I assume aspirable, Catastrophe drain works on them.

InfiniteKarma

09-12-2011, 04:43 AM

that's because you're nuts....

i think i found my signature because of you lol

tonysgirl

11-07-2011, 06:18 AM

The chains of promethia mission called the road forks i did everything right and it wont let me past it. Has anyone else had this problem if so can you tell me how to fix it please.

Faule

11-07-2011, 01:17 PM

I'm having trouble remembering the specific text regarding Limbus. I can't remember where or who it was that gave it to you, but it mentioned Temenos (The basement or something or other) the location where the inhabitants were doing experiments with genetics. And the mobs left there remain. Such as the Enhanced beasts etc.

I wish I could remember where it was I read that.

Frapp

11-08-2011, 08:23 AM

Why are hecteyes made entirely out of eyeballs, yet aggro sound and not sight?

I read through all the posts early this morning, and I believe that this page 1 question hasn't been answered yet.

I believe the answer to this question lies in understanding how compound eyes work. Taking the common house fly for example. It has 2 compound eyes which give it a very wide viewing range. However, the limitation to this advantage is that the resolution for each cell in the compound eye is so small, the fly is only truly able to see variations in light and dark. The fly will instead rely on other sensory input to determine what is going on. This is why hanging a clear bag of water off the porch ceiling in the summer is a good fly deterrent. The quick changes of light and dark make the fly "see" a predator. The fly won't bother going near it to find out.

Going back to the Hecteyes, they probably have a similar limitation. Imagine if you will that the Hecteyes is a simple predator. Effective, but simple. Its brain must be capable of casting magic, moving, defending, feeding, and otherwise living in its environment. Having its brain reconcile all the images its eyes are seeing would probably take too much processing power for it to respond with fight / flee effectively. The eyes are very likely only there to "see" where it's going.

It was stated later on in this very thread that sound is the movement of air (vibrations). The Hecteyes, and by extension Slimes, very likely evolved to a point to be able to detect friendly sounds like bats and skeletons and knows to avoid (or feed, even thought we never see it) on them. With the swish of pants or the clang of armor, the Hecteyes has learned that those sounds usually mean pain, and will take steps to defend itself.

MDenham

11-08-2011, 11:46 AM

Vold

11-09-2011, 04:16 AM

I just wish I could stand still and avoid sound aggro. It worked in Jurassic Park.

Frapp

11-09-2011, 07:00 AM

In all honesty, I think it's just a case of "the devs didn't want to program in different vision angles per mob family", and sound aggro wasn't angle-dependent, so they just went with that.

But that's not nearly as entertaining as your explanation. :D

Thanks for the props :P

You do make a valid point though, and I wouldn't doubt if something like that was indeed a factor. However, I do like to give the original devs credit when it comes to designing the creatures and the environments in the game. Rarely does anything happen by accident. Scenes in a movie, graphics in game, text in a story - it is all planned out, written, re-written, re-drawn until it is the best it's going to be by the deadline.

Kensagaku

11-10-2011, 04:15 AM

Wow, this thread is amazing. I just read through the whole thing and I'm fascinated by all of the secrets that Vana'diel has! I never did things like the tablet quests, nor have I done extensive research on different mysteries in either the Midlands or Aht Urghan, so I'm quite impressed after reading all of this. I might just have to go do some exploring myself to renew my interest in Vanadiel. Time to go saddle up my old chocobo, Drumsticks. :O!

That aside, question. What's up with the ruins in Altepa? I know the desert was the Galkan homeland originally before the Anticans came and drove them out, but are the Galkas really that advanced? Or was that another instance of a Zilart era settlement? And what's with the Anticans themselves?

Annnd as I was walking back to my dorm room, something else hit me. I remember that, as part of the avatar quests, a doll would appear and take the memories of those who had given you the tuning forks. It was also part of the SMN AF line, where there was a taru, Uran-Mafran, that used the dolls to try and absorb the power of the Protocrystals (I think? It's been AGES since I've done the SMN AF quest line). What was up with that? What happened to the taru? I didn't do the Waking the Beast quest with Carby Prime if that explains what happened (mostly lack of people to do it with), but I also don't remember the SMN AF storyline either very well if it explained what happened with him. x.x I just remember he was an energy thief draining all of the power from the celestial avatars.

Actually, mid-writing this I decided to go back and watch the cutscenes via Youtube... and now I'm even more confused. D: He lost the Mana Orb but he vanished and said he still has his goals to fulfill and I have no idea what's going on now. x.x

Urthdigger

11-10-2011, 06:02 PM

Xantavia

11-11-2011, 11:35 AM

I was wondering...
Are tarutaru the most clever race in vana?
I mean, with their high INT value... Or is INT specific for magic and not, say, for logic reasoning and so?

Hope the question makes sense O.O
This reminds me of D&D when it came to INT and WIS. Just replace WIS with MND for simplicity. INT would tell you its raining, MND would tell you to cover yourself. So taru are really booksmart, but don't have the common sense of the Elvaan.

Kristal

11-11-2011, 07:19 PM

I believe the Quicksand Caves were at least partially constructed by the Zilart, due to the chamber of oracles being there. All the murals and crap though, that was all us. Also, I could be wrong, but I think the ruins used to be above the ground, but the anticans have slowly caused it to sink over the years.

Nah, the anticans drove the galka away, but their digging and lack of maintenance of the buildings caused the desert to take hold of the area.

SpankWustler

11-12-2011, 12:57 AM

Annnd as I was walking back to my dorm room, something else hit me.

Sorry, brah. I guess my "Indoor Ultimate Frisbee League" idea didn't turn out as well in practice as it seemed in my head when it was 3:50 AM and I was really drunk...

Xellith

11-12-2011, 03:15 AM

The galkas built and maintained the Quicksand Caves. However they dug too deep and awoke the sleeping Antica who did not take too kindly to having their nest disturbed. You can see how easily the sand is taking hold of the Galka ruins. Its logical to assume that the same thing happened to the old Zilart ruins which are buried deeper beneath the Galkan made ruins.

We have yet to see the actual Antican home - I doubt we ever will.

Zinato

11-14-2011, 02:27 PM

Alright, heres a few I have been pondering.

#1 What exactly allows adventures to stand on the "water" in Al'Taieu
#2 What is stopping the Antica hordes from wiping out Vana'diel (they number in the millions if i recall)
#3 How did the teleport crystals get to where they are. I once thought it was crystal line related but, Altepa, Yhoater, and the past deny that fact

On Blue Mage, I think a battle against your inner beast would make a great 99 cap Hint* Hint*
On Abyssea Aht Urhgan, Take into consideration Zazarg is in Abyssea - Uleguerand there is a good chance the area was
a) consumed by the darkness of the far east due to the Al'Teiau party failure
b) destroyed by Odin and Alexander in your absence
c) suffered a similar fate to the middle lands

As a final note, not a big mystery but, why do the Hpemde monsters drop High Quality organs more then Normal Quality? Coincidence? or are they somehow more commonly well built making High Quality basically normal quality. But since there is no low quality drops, LQ -> NQ and NQ -> HQ thus explaining the drop rate.

arock02

11-14-2011, 03:45 PM

@Zinato Q#2: I think maybe they have no interest in conquest. Did they not fight alongside the Shadow Lord?

I have some questions of my own, though. Like, what is it about a moogle spinning that changes a person's job?
How come plantoids eat beasts?
How come the weather never changes inside cities?
If Galka reproduce by reincarnation, do they...you know, come "equipped"?

Tohihroyu

11-14-2011, 06:01 PM

Galka are indeed males (stfu haters)

In an interview column of FFXI Vana'Diel official world guide Vol.1 written by Dengeki Brigade, the Event Director of FFXI, Nobuaki Komoto mentioned in p.133 that galkan sex is male.

Mr. Komoto: (Some lines omitted.) By the way, Galka never lacks sexuality, but they are all males. When you choose your character, he is described as "male", definitely (laugh). There are many people who misunderstand it, so I declare it here.

They got the "tools" they just don't have the means to make a baby, in short "shoot blanks" but theres gonna be many who are too stubborn & continue to ram it down my throat "GALKA ARE DICKLESS THEY ARE ITS STFU TOHI! THAT PROOF MEANS NOTHING TO US UR JUST LOLMAD"

*ahem*

I don't think Anticans can "sneak" outside Altepa, the only way Antican *could* is if they where taken by others (a male & female) & left to breed, its been done before in the storyline but with a single antica but failed.

Good thing in Abyssea they are all dead...Abyssean Antica would be pretty scary AoE mute instead of silence, longer petrifaction or terror...ugh scary lol

Maahes

11-14-2011, 06:25 PM

Economizer

02-08-2012, 11:25 PM

This necrobumb is brought to you by "it is incredibly relevant", "there is no statute of limitations on forum discussions", "people need to cool their jets on the forums", and "the letter J".

Can you imagine waking up each morning knowing that you would have to wrestle a man-sized radish to death in order to eat?

I don't have to imagine. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-hnosMeXwY&t=1m0s)

SpankWustler

02-08-2012, 11:39 PM

Sarutabaruta Hill 2

The mandragora represents that Tarutaru's lady issues.

The crawler represents his masculinity.

You don't want to know what the Hume represents.

Rewyen

02-09-2012, 09:50 AM

Where exactly is the Far East? I've heard it said it was Aht Urhgan, but if I remember correctly, it was brought up there as well as being another place.

I can't remember if it was Lufaise of Miserioux, but there is a small cave entrance that is literally roped off. Where does this go? Was this possibly a way to enter Tavnazia?

Why are hard shelled crabs weaker to wind than giant rocks?

How come you can't see the dunes from any of the two zone lines and vice versa? You would think leaving a mountainous area to enter a beach would be fairly obvious.

Just how many coffers are there lying around containing artifact armor?

How come no one cares that we just run through peoples houses?

If it's Ra/Ex, then why does everyone have it?

Arcon

02-09-2012, 03:58 PM

Where exactly is the Far East? I've heard it said it was Aht Urhgan, but if I remember correctly, it was brought up there as well as being another place.

You can see on the ToAU map that the continent is not fully enclosed. It goes on further to the east, and while we have some hints on what's there - like Tenzen's home nation and possibly the origin of the Yagudo (Gessho also being from there) - we don't know for certain.

I can't remember if it was Lufaise of Miserioux, but there is a small cave entrance that is literally roped off. Where does this go? Was this possibly a way to enter Tavnazia?

I should hope so, someone already suggested a new event where we would get to explore the ruins of Tavnazia, possibly dungeon-style. I would give my firstborn for something like that.

How come you can't see the dunes from any of the two zone lines and vice versa? You would think leaving a mountainous area to enter a beach would be fairly obvious.

That applies to most zones, though. I like to tell myself the zone lines are just symbolic, when in reality you would travel a much further distance each time you zone.

How come no one cares that we just run through peoples houses?

They never care in roleplaying games. My conclusion is that adventurers are pretty insensitive to other people's privacy, but everyone's used to it by now and knows that even if they should break their vases they're all back when they re-enter the room.

Babygyrl

02-09-2012, 09:59 PM

Not near a PC so can't check the name, but as you enter limbus there is a click point on the wall next to where you enter, Whats it for? no one i asked knows (i think its there in Temenos (on wall behind entrance) and Apollyon (on one of the posts,)wish i could goto an entrance now and tab it to get its name lol.

I had to ask my husband because I never paid attention to things like that lol.

He said those were used for alliances to see the availability of certain areas since Limbus would often have multiple groups going at a time back at 75 cap.

Economizer

02-09-2012, 10:37 PM

How come no one cares that we just run through peoples houses?

They could lock their doors, after all, some doors are locked.

Kristal

02-09-2012, 10:48 PM

How come no one cares that we just run through peoples houses?

When a heavily armed PC ransacks your house, you will damn well let him do as he pleases!

Rewyen

02-10-2012, 02:19 AM

SpankWustler

02-10-2012, 02:35 AM

Given all the bat wings we've given to that NPC in North Sandy, how is he not covered in a pile of them by now?

The lucky charms that he makes from them are not only edible, but magically delicious.

Sparthos

02-10-2012, 02:55 AM

Given all the bat wings we've given to that NPC in North Sandy, how is he not covered in a pile of them by now?

If the crystal war happened 20 years ago and I've been playing for like 800 Vana years, why am I not dead and why do people seem to ignore the rule of time despite the fact that the sun rises and sets continuously? Are we in some kind of time proof dimension?

Time doesn't move unless the storyline commands it. :P

In some of the later missions the Archduke is noticably missing (because he's dead) leading us to believe that some time has passed between each expansion pack. The events of CoP happen immediately after RoTZ with ToAU happening some time after that.

Lushipur

02-10-2012, 05:02 AM

Time doesn't move unless the storyline commands it. :P

In some of the later missions the Archduke is noticably missing (because he's dead) leading us to believe that some time has passed between each expansion pack. The events of CoP happen immediately after RoTZ with ToAU happening some time after that.

just finish wotg storyline and you can guess why

Rewyen

02-10-2012, 05:22 AM

No spoilers! lol

I just came back. When I left, WotG wasn't complete yet and I haven't really begun playing catch up on storyline yet.

Lushipur

02-10-2012, 05:36 AM

No spoilers! lol

I just came back. When I left, WotG wasn't complete yet and I haven't really begun playing catch up on storyline yet.

lol i just said where u can get your answers ;)
no intentions to spoiler it :P

Shadotter

02-10-2012, 09:20 AM

To be fair, I really think they should just lock the year into the year it's supposed to be in, except for the past.

Disifer

02-11-2012, 08:05 PM

Why can't I hit anything on my pup with my Hope staff. Is it named a hope staff cause I have to pray i'll hit something?

SpankWustler

02-11-2012, 09:20 PM

Why can't I hit anything on my pup with my Hope staff. Is it named a hope staff cause I have to pray i'll hit something?

It is a spiritual aid to help Puppetmasters reach spiritual enlightenment rather than a weapon. Hope is a positive feeling, but once one nears enlightenment, it is just a form of attachment to the future that must be cast away.

Cast your Hope staff away and know peace.

Geabrielle

02-13-2012, 03:23 AM

Kafrein

08-22-2013, 04:52 AM

Here's a question! As an adventurer, I've saved the world more times than I can count. So WHY the heck am I still living in a state sanctioned mog house on a paltry salary?? Where' s my McMog Mansion? Or I dunno, where's the perks to being a hero?

Wait . never mind ... your supposed to be a modest joe who lets the various cloud of NPCs take all the credit so no one bothers you.

No, really. Where's my McMog Mansion?

Ah, the life of the adventurer. I always assumed adventurers are called as such because it's in their very nature to be nomadic and go from place to place, they're probably richer than most for it. Even if they become famous, they stay going on their course and pursuing new goals. Not to mention your character can't speak...

I have a question, however, to revive this thread. I posted a thread about it, but no one seemed to have an answer.

Let me copy what I posted there, into here,

"In the cut-scenes of the Wings of the Goddess mission 'Maiden of the Dusk', Lilith tells Lilisette that the two timelines can co-exist if Atomos is sealed away from both ends, so as to avoid the timelines from conflicting.

Before Lilisette crosses over to the world of strife, she asks you to help her do this. She will seal off the maws, and so will you. Then they will, over the course of decades, turn to stone and stop working.

But, it's never explained how we are meant to do this? And because the missions end shortly afterwards, we're never actually seen to keep our promise.

Did I miss something, or was this never explained?

If anyone could shed some light on this, I would greatly appreciate it. "

It just seems like a fairly important plot point, because it's the last we ever see of Lilisette. I was wondering if maybe they were going to elaborate or conclude this in the Atomos/Cait Sith unlock quests...

Anyone have any ideas?

Naraku_Diabolos

08-23-2013, 12:03 PM

Why do mage Quadav look like they are jerking off when casting magic?

Psxpert2011

08-23-2013, 01:16 PM

I will correct this if I decide to read the whole thread,lol!

The Galka that blocks the path or the Mithra who doesn't want you to pass. Where doesn't those paths lead to?

I always though SE would use their time wisely to fill in the blanks for expansions and extras! New quest and rewards for better travel.

Is there a faster way to get to Norg. Is there back-door deals between Jeuno and Norg and Kazham? Is it a political thing and not for adventurers?

Karbuncle

08-23-2013, 05:31 PM

The Galka in Norg blocks the path to the Norg Docks, where their Pirate Ships land. I think SE said they had plans to make it useable but decided against it.

The Mithra just blocks the path to some unused cave entrance, I imagine it was probably a second entrance to, or the planned entrance, to Sea Serpent Grotto, but eventually the idea was scrapped.

Either way there is no direct in game lore to explain it, only speculation and vague memories of dev comments.

Wolffeberhard

08-23-2013, 08:45 PM

They probably broke when Sky rose. If you look at old zilart pictures in the Temple of Uggalepih, You can see a picture of Ro'Maeve, and Sky still on the ground. If i recall the damage to those statues happened when Sky rose above the clouds.

Sky never rose cuz it never was in the ground to begin with, after all, you need to teleport to sky to get there. Don't you find it odd that the main teleport at the hall of the gods seems like it's always been there, no signs of being torn or ripped by any earthquake like movements? And the 3 later teleports you get from CoP mission/quest, what about those? An in-game proof of this is the painting you find in Sacrarium. It clearly shows sky has been where we always knew to be at. Maybe at beginning, when It was built, it was in the ground, but as soon as it was able to float it's been up there since. Zilerts use the power from the 5 mother crystals to keep it afloat. The crags tapped into the power and channel it to Delkfutt's Tower at Qufim, where it was sent to Sky's power reactor (for lack of a batter word) located at the Celestial Nexus.

What really happen was the major power surge caused by Bahamut's Teraflare at Fei'Yin (which is the control centre to this massive power undertaking) , when he found out that the zilarts was trying to get to the gods. The surge rippled and caused major destructions across this power grid which shook Vana'diel as a whole. From that, the black ooze substance flow out and the well known crystal formations known as Magicites grew. The surge is what caused the statues at the hall of the gods to brake apart among other things across Vana'diel. The explosion at Fei'Yin is the reason why the northerlands are in eternal winter, the atomic winter is the aftermath of this at and around Fei'Yin.

Glamdring

08-24-2013, 08:16 AM

I've always wondered what the random staircase under the presidents office in Metalworks was supposed to be for (can see it through the wall if you position yourself right, or...)

My best guess was that it was a way to board the train/tram/trolly w/e you wanna call it that goes to the unused zones.

you know nothing about people in power do you? it's the President's private wine cellar, a tunnel to his mistress, a bunker and an escape route in case everything hits the fan.

Karbuncle

08-24-2013, 09:11 AM

Sky never rose cuz it never was in the ground to begin with, after all, you need to teleport to sky to get there. Don't you find it odd that the main teleport at the hall of the gods seems like it's always been there, no signs of being torn or ripped by any earthquake like movements? And the 3 later teleports you get from CoP mission/quest, what about those? An in-game proof of this is the painting you find in Sacrarium. It clearly shows sky has been where we always knew to be at. Maybe at beginning, when It was built, it was in the ground, but as soon as it was able to float it's been up there since. Zilerts use the power from the 5 mother crystals to keep it afloat. The crags tapped into the power and channel it to Delkfutt's Tower at Qufim, where it was sent to Sky's power reactor (for lack of a batter word) located at the Celestial Nexus.

What really happen was the major power surge caused by Bahamut's Teraflare at Fei'Yin (which is the control centre to this massive power undertaking) , when he found out that the zilarts was trying to get to the gods. The surge rippled and caused major destructions across this power grid which shook Vana'diel as a whole. From that, the black ooze substance flow out and the well known crystal formations known as Magicites grew. The surge is what caused the statues at the hall of the gods to brake apart among other things across Vana'diel. The explosion at Fei'Yin is the reason why the northerlands are in eternal winter, the atomic winter is the aftermath of this at and around Fei'Yin.

I have no idea hold old what you're responding to is or the context of it, Where is this quote so i can properly rebut. lol

Camiie

08-25-2013, 02:42 PM

The biggest mystery of all in my mind is: Where do our characters come from? Starter nation? Nope! We're newcomers there! Same deal for every other city or settlement in the game. Not only are we new to every town we come across, but we start out with no capabilities for safe or speedy travel. We earn those while leveling, journeying, and questing to and in these very same towns. So, what's the story on this?

Demon6324236

08-26-2013, 03:34 PM

Seeing as I popped up in Port Windy when my story began, I assume my Hume was a criminal in some other country who was cast out to sea on a barrel or some such and somehow found himself in Windy. As I got up out of the water I thought to myself I would try to make a better life for myself here rather than being an outcast, and thus, my constantly angry looking Hume became an adventurer, one who saved the world many times without his friends or those he saved ever knowing his true past.

No really though, it is a good question.

Kafrein

08-27-2013, 02:10 AM

They could come from anywhere, I think that part is entirely up to you as the player. I doubt they would ever answer it because it would detract from the 'your character can be anyone you want them to be' thing. Same reason your character has no dialogue, I guess.

I guess no one knows about the Atomos thing, then?

(I will not let this thread die!)

Infidi

08-27-2013, 02:21 AM

What I really want to know is... why do Elvaans have all the cool animations? :(

Kafrein

08-27-2013, 09:25 PM

Because Elvaans are the coolest race, duh.

Babekeke

08-28-2013, 02:36 PM

I have no idea hold old what you're responding to is or the context of it, Where is this quote so i can properly rebut. lol

If you click on the blue arrow next to your name in his quote, it takes you to the original post! :)

Edit: OK, white arrows in a blue box.

Kristal

08-28-2013, 07:55 PM

I have no idea hold old what you're responding to is or the context of it, Where is this quote so i can properly rebut. lol

That second part of Bahamut blowing up Fei'Yin is probably a combination of different parts of lore.
* (Ancient Era) Kuluu and Dawnmaidens sabotaging FeiYin to prevent the Gates of Paradise from being opened (and causing massive destruction and death). (I think this was the event that changed the Kuluu into Tonberries, but not sure.)
* (Chains of Promathia) Bahamut being awakened by the energy reversal in Delkfutt's Tower and emerging from the sea near Qufim.
* (Chains of Promathia) Bahamut attacking the airship fleet with Giga Flare, Phoenix sacrificing herself to block it.

Ziyyigo-Tipyigo

08-29-2013, 04:38 PM

Except Bahamut would be too busy to attack Fei'Yin, being that he was attacking Al'Taieu and all. The local Quasilumins discuss the defensive measures they took, and there's also the Reliquarium painting with Bahamut over Al'Taieu. Totally different mothercrystal fragment.

Bahamut was stirred by what happened in Delkfutt's Tower because what happened was a connection to Al'Taieu. Al'Taieu needed to be held separate from Vana'diel because it contained Promathia.

And Bahamut wasn't attacking "the airship fleet," Bahamut was attacking you. The parlay was going well until you spoke up, bringing attention to yourself as the Vessel of Light, cluing Bahamut into Selh'teus' (and Phoenix's) plan.

Bearstar

09-03-2013, 11:12 AM

I've read a good part of the thread, escuse me if someone answered in a part I skipped.

Sky has always been in sky. It didn't rise. Think of it as the nail and delkfutt's tower as the hammer.

Concerning Sea, during the Meltdown the Crystal Line partially succeeded. If you look at the mountians in battallia downs and the campaign, you'll see them cut in half in an arch. The sea around qufim is from the giant sphere of land and air that was coverted and absorbed into the 5th crystal. The reason the 5th crystal is called the Emperial Paradox is because the crystal is in three places at once, one at the bottom of the ocean, two inside the city teleported into space, and three the city rests within the light of the crystal so the crystal is within itself.

But beyond Sea, the Meltdown almost broke vanadiel into a ring of asteroids. It shattered Fei'yin and drove the Northlands into permenent winter. I think the Hall of the Gods is more of a combo of 10k of wear and tear with Meltdown damage than Meltdown alone.

A cookie if you've noticed are the petrified trees in Batallia Downs at the coastline. These were frozen in place during the Meltdown. There are also petrified trees in Xarc, but these point towards the ocean. My theory is that the cliff face protected them from the main blast but they face away from the light ramp up to the castle. Since this light comes from the 4th crystal, the Meltdown either shattered the ground or it was already exposed and these trees where exposed to the direct light of the explosion and frozen as well.

Concerning years. Every week is a year in gametime. But if you go by plot, you begin the game 20 years after the Crystal War, so storywise it has probably been 5 years max. I just ingore the weekly calander, beyond conquest tallies it has no purpose.

Now my question: Is Rafid in Norg(I think that's the right name. The man with amnesia.) Blandine's and Celestine's (in Mhaura) missing husband and father? The dates of his ship's disapearance and Rafid's rescue at sea match up perfectly. I tried both talking to him with the sand charm in my invitory and wearing it, and trading it but nothing has ever happened. I forget if I've done the same with his caretaker, it was a long time ago. But knowing me I've probably have.

Ziyyigo-Tipyigo

09-04-2013, 12:49 AM

Concerning Sea, during the Meltdown the Crystal Line partially succeeded. If you look at the mountians in battallia downs and the campaign, you'll see them cut in half in an arch.

All shores on the Sea of Shu'Meyo are charred black cliffs, from Sauromugue through to Beaucedine, and including Qufim. Whatever it is, it's not just Batallia.

The sea around qufim is from the giant sphere of land and air that was coverted and absorbed into the 5th crystal. The reason the 5th crystal is called the Emperial Paradox is because the crystal is in three places at once, one at the bottom of the ocean, two inside the city teleported into space, and three the city rests within the light of the crystal so the crystal is within itself.

Got any cutscenes/etc. you can cite to back this up?

It shattered Fei'yin

Fei'Yin's explosion was a direct result of Kuluu sabotage. Grav'iton spells this out in Sacrificial Chamber.

Concerning years. Every week is a year in gametime.

No. There are exactly 25 Vana'diel days/hours/minutes in 1 earth day/hour/minute, respectively. The year in Vana'diel consists of 12 (calendar) months of 30 days each, or 360 days. This is 14 days, 9 hours, 36 minutes earth time, exactly.

SpankWustler

09-04-2013, 08:08 AM

All shores on the Sea of Shu'Meyo are charred black cliffs, from Sauromugue through to Beaucedine, and including Qufim. Whatever it is, it's not just Batallia.

Obviously, the Shadow Lord and his Kindred used the cliff in Beaucedine as their latrine for numerous years and their dutiful excretions have taken a toll on the ecosystem of Vana'diel.

Also, note this comment by a member of the fishing guild: "The Sea of Shu'Meyo... That's where you'll have to go if you want to find a Three-eyed Fish. A rare fishy, that one is." The marine life has mutated due to excessive exposure to demonic poop!

Bearstar

09-05-2013, 11:19 AM

All shores on the Sea of Shu'Meyo are charred black cliffs, from Sauromugue through to Beaucedine, and including Qufim. Whatever it is, it's not just Batallia... Got any cutscenes/etc. you can cite to back this up?

I know that. I can't spell Sauromugue off the top of my head and I forgot the H in Champaign. I'm sorry for the misspelling.

About the sphere, in both zilart and early CoP the assumption is that Al'Taieu was destroyed in the explosion. Explosions cause craters. The Sea of Shu'Meyo is almost a perfect circle, one sign of a crater, and in volcanic super eruptions small rings like Qufim are common, another sign of the crater. So are the shear cliffs and the petrified trees. In Pompeii, there are petrified trees bent backwards away from the volcano and frozen in place. Again, the logic holds. Its a crater.
But, then you learn Al'Taieu was not destroyed but the city and it's people are safe within the crystal. So now we have the crater, a half-spherical depression. Energy radiates out from a sourse in all directions equally unless redirected, like in shaped charges used in fireworks, building demolistion, and military bombs. So under the laws of physics, a volume equal to the size of the crater was also taken from above.

The Emperial Paradox. Emperial refers to the capital. Paradox is something that exists but shouldn't. The 5th crystal is still conected to the Cystal Line at the bottom of the sea, you learn this in CoP and in the Hall of the Gods cs's in Abyssea. Selh'teus "opens the gate" taking us inside the crystal to Al'Taieu. But at the same time we are inside the crystal, we travel into the palace basement and find the crystal. So the crystal is inside itself. And, in the cs in the fight with promathia Prishe jumps at seeing Jeuno below her. In the preceeding cs's there is talk of Al'Taieu's decent back to Vana'diel and how to stop it, also Promathia heads for the basement to smash the 5th crystal so he can return to Vana'diel. Also in Abyssea's final battle, if you look down you will see Al'Taieu and its gaint skidmark where it crashed into the moon. So we have the crystal at the bottom of the ocean, we have the crystal within itself, and finally we have the crystal in space. Three locations at once, the paradox.

Fei'Yin's explosion was a direct result of Kuluu sabotage. Grav'iton spells this out in Sacrificial Chamber.

I've never thought of Fei'Yin as the 4th crag. It resembles Dulkfutt's tower more than any crag. And the crystal itself is in Xarcabard under Castle Zvahl, that's were the light comes from on the ramp and why a spine leads from it south. Even if it was the target of the attack, the top of it is the same at the cliffline. Either it was built flat or the top was sheared off.

No. There are exactly 25 Vana'diel days/hours/minutes in 1 earth day/hour/minute, respectively. The year in Vana'diel consists of 12 (calendar) months of 30 days each, or 360 days. This is 14 days, 9 hours, 36 minutes earth time, exactly.

If you say so, like I said I've never payed attention to the weekly calender. But my point still stands that plot wise it has no relationship to actual passage of time. It's only 20 years after the crystal war and most likely 5ish years total for the entire game content.

Bearstar

09-05-2013, 12:53 PM

But my question still stands: Is Rafid in Norg(I think that's the right name. The man with amnesia.) Blandine's and Celestine's (in Mhaura) missing husband and father? The dates of his ship's disapearance and Rafid's rescue at sea match up perfectly.

Spectreman

09-06-2013, 06:50 AM

Yuhtunga Sulfur doesn't drop in Yuhtunga Jungle.

Meyi

04-18-2015, 02:49 PM

So I wonder what Rhapsodies of Vana'diel will reveal or retouch on from this topic. I'm really looking forward to more Kuluu/Zilart information myself. Seeing some more cutscenes from them would be so awesome.

Vinedrai

04-27-2015, 02:01 AM

Sky has always been in sky. It didn't rise. Think of it as the nail and delkfutt's tower as the hammer.

It is true that Tu'lia has always been in the sky, but I should object to the second part. Delkfutt's Tower is a control station for the flow in the crystal line and it doesn't really have a "nail and hammer" relation to Tu'lia. Eald'narche reactivated the core of the system (aka Chrysalis Core) and consequently the access to Tu'lia was also reactivated. In one of the RoZ cutscenes, Eald'narche says: "Once Tu'Lia has been awakened, I can continue my preparations there. Just as I did ten thousand years ago." We can tell by his claim that Tu'lia was already active back in the day, at least until the sabotage. Simply put, he didn't need to press the "launch Tu'Lia" button or something like that. He only turned the power back on.

The sea around qufim is from the giant sphere of land and air that was coverted and absorbed into the 5th crystal. The reason the 5th crystal is called the Emperial Paradox is because the crystal is in three places at once, one at the bottom of the ocean, two inside the city teleported into space, and three the city rests within the light of the crystal so the crystal is within itself.

The missing land mess around the Qufim Island was destroyed in the meltdown, not because of being absorbed into the crystal. You can tell by the charred cliffs from Batallia to Sauromugue that some sort of an exothermal reaction was the cause. What was absorbed into the 5th mother crystal is the city of Al'Taieu. I should also add that when you get on the ship in the Sealion's Den, you fly away from the mainland to reach the portal to Al'Taeiu.

This is pure speculation, but you see the light going up above the Grand Palace of Hu'Xzoi? That is probably what we see protruding from the sea when we get there from the Sealion's Den. In a cutscene Yve'noile says: "As thou already know, his plan began ten thousand years ago when he came into contact with the five crystals that rest beneath the surface of Vana'diel. The true crystals..." So possibly, Al'Taeiu was actually built at the bottom of the sea since it contained the 5th mother crystal which was supposed to be beneath the surface. Don't ask me how a dragon can possibly attack a city at the bottom of the sea though :P

Back on topic: The existence of the 5th mother crystal is in a paradox because the defense mechanism, which was manually activated when Bahamut attacked the city of Al'Taieu, relocated the city into the mother crystal which was located in the city, hence a paradox. This is also why Galkas don't return to the crystal when they die, so they just reincarnate. It appears that galkas are associated with the 5th mother crystal, but there is nothing left to return to. As we all know, while they look musculine, they are actually genderless and can't reproduce. I am not sure about this, but assume that if the 5th mother crystal wasn't in a paradox, they would have already become extinct.

But beyond Sea, the Meltdown almost broke vanadiel into a ring of asteroids. It shattered Fei'yin and drove the Northlands into permenent winter. I think the Hall of the Gods is more of a combo of 10k of wear and tear with Meltdown damage than Meltdown alone.

A cookie if you've noticed are the petrified trees in Batallia Downs at the coastline. These were frozen in place during the Meltdown. There are also petrified trees in Xarc, but these point towards the ocean. My theory is that the cliff face protected them from the main blast but they face away from the light ramp up to the castle. Since this light comes from the 4th crystal, the Meltdown either shattered the ground or it was already exposed and these trees where exposed to the direct light of the explosion and frozen as well.

That part is a bit of an exaggeration :) The destruction it caused isn't really THAT big. Also, the main reason for the Northlands to be in permanent winter is the fact that the 4th mother crystal (Vhazl) is damaged. One hint for the existence of a mother crystal there is the Promyvion-Vhazl and it is apparently right below the Castle Zvahl, judging by the leakage from the cracks on the way to the castle.

Concerning years. Every week is a year in gametime. But if you go by plot, you begin the game 20 years after the Crystal War, so storywise it has probably been 5 years max. I just ingore the weekly calander, beyond conquest tallies it has no purpose.

Crystal War ended in 864 and like you said, the original story starts 20 years later. We are in year 1223 now according to the in game timer, so actually 339 years have passed.