The Bad Apple

The Bad Apple

Year

1325 AE

Storyline

Personal story

Chapter

Justice for Riannoc

Location

Guardian's Pass
(Gendarran Fields)
Omphalos Chamber
(The Grove)

Level

30

Race

Sylvari

Preceded by

The Blossom of Youth
Secrets in the Earth

Followed by

Dead of Winter
A Tangle of Weeds
Flower of Death

API

235

Loading screen at Guardian's Pass

The Bad Apple is a part of the Sylvari personal story for characters who chose Branthyn's (Vigil) plan during Secrets in the Earth or The Blossom of Youth.

Objectives

Visit the pit-fighting arena near Guardian's Pass.

• Meet Branthyn near Guardian's Pass.
• Volunteer for the pit-fighting competition.
• Enter the ring and fight in the competition.
• Defeat Bezix Brainstormer[sic] and his MRDRBOT.
• Defeat Piete the Unwashed.
• Defeat Romperoo, Scourge of the Seas.
• (Defeat Waine.)
• Waine
  
• Retrieve Caladbolg from Waine's corpse.
• Confer with Branthyn.

Report back to the Grove.

• Speak with the Pale Tree.
• Join an order of Tyria, and carry out their plan.

Rewards

Click here to edit the reward data

All professions

• Bag of Loot (3)

Profession-specific

• One of the following: Vigorous Iron Hammer, Rejuvenating Iron Mace, Honed Iron Greatsword
• One of the following: Vigorous Iron Hammer, Rejuvenating Iron Mace, Rejuvenating Simple Staff
• One of the following: Honed Iron Greatsword, Vigorous Iron Hammer, Honed Iron Rifle
• One of the following: Ravaging Iron Pistol, Honed Iron Rifle, Hearty Iron Shield
• One of the following: Honed Iron Greatsword, Hunter's Journeymen Longbow, Ravaging Simple Short Bow
• One of the following: Ravaging Iron Sword, Ravaging Simple Short Bow, Ravaging Iron Pistol
• One of the following: Ravaging Iron Dagger, Ravaging Simple Scepter, Rejuvenating Simple Staff
• One of the following: Honed Iron Greatsword, Rejuvenating Simple Staff, Ravaging Iron Sword
• One of the following: Ravaging Simple Scepter, Ravaging Iron Dagger, Rejuvenating Simple Staff

Walkthrough

You have to fight an asura, a norn and a quaggan in three rounds of fighting before you can fight Waine. There seems to be a bug where the fight doesn't stop, so after you defeat the asura, you don't automatically get healed after the fight should be over. The next fight starts quite soon, so you might need to use a healing skill. This happens if you beat up the asura but not the golem. You will still be fighting the golem when it leaves the pit, so you won't be automatically healed. Try to beat both the asura and the golem to avoid this, or be prepared to heal before the next fight if you are wounded.

The asura has a golem assistant. The norn will at some stage summon 3 buccaneers to help her. That's cheating, but what can you do? You have to beat them all up. The quaggan does a bit of chatting before the fight, when he suddenly gets bigger, the fight is about to start.

Waine will zap lightning at you with Caladbolg. He will also do the spinny thing which fires out missiles. Sometimes he will use the knockdown skill.

After you beat Waine, you go and ask him for the sword. He won't give it up, and then suddenly he gets all better and the fight starts again. Beat him again, and pry the sword from his cold dead hands. Sure you didn't want to kill him, but he wouldn't give up the sword!

Go and talk to Branthyn and give her the sword. If you want to muck around with the sword before you give it to her, there are some moas near the pit you can attack. Then return to the Grove and talk to the Pale Tree.

At the meeting with the Pale Tree you have to choose an order to join. Your choice of order also decides how you will attack Mazdak:

• Cai - Order of Whispers - Force the Centaurs and Undead to decimate each other. Leads to A Tangle of Weeds.
• Branthyn - The Vigil - Command the troops in an assault. Leads to Flower of Death.
• Iowerth - Durmand Priory - Rig the tomb with traps. Leads to Dead of Winter.

NPCs

Allies

Guardian's Pass

Animal

• Pack Bull

Charr

• Balteus Bloodletter
• Buccaneer Sniper
• Fighting Pit Guard
• Soldier

Humans

• Brandt*
• Child Spectator
• Elderly Commentator
• Lionguard
• Merchant*
• Rowdy Spectator
• Seraph Archer
• Seraph Guard
• Seraph Soldier
• Tegeirian Rees*

* These are inside Stoneguard Gate and not visible until the mission is over.

Norn

• Svalkar the Skullcrusher

Quaggan

• Devoted Spectator

Sylvari

• Branthyn

Various

• Spectator

Omphalos Chamber

Sylvari

• Avatar of the Tree
• Branthyn
• Cai
• Caithe
• Iowerth
• Trahearne

Foes

Asura

• Bezix the Brainstormer

Canines

• Warg

Charr

• Buccaneer Sniper

Golems

• MRDRBOT

Humans

• Buccaneer Pirate
• Waine

Ooze

• Translucent Ooze

Norn

• Buccaneer Sapper
• Piete the Unwashed

Quaggan

• Romperoo

Objects

• Barrel
• Crate

Bundles

• Boulder
• Caladbolg
• Wooden Plank

Dialogue

Guardian's Pass

Initial cinematic:

<Character name>: There he is—that's Waine, fighting in the pit. You can tell by looking at his sword. It's got to be Caladbolg.

Branthyn: Treasonous snake. Let's jump down there and break it out of his hand!

<Character name>: We can't make a scene. Half these people are bandits. If they suspect the sword's value, we'll never make it out alive.

Branthyn: You're right, of course—but that doesn't make this any easier. The Vigil punishes evil. It's difficult to stand here and allow it to continue.

Branthyn: Then we'll have to enter the tournament as we'd planned. If we defeat him honestly, we can claim the sword as "battle-price."

Branthyn: If he doesn't give it to us, he'll be shamed in front of all these thugs. Then he's the dead one.

Branthyn: If you think you can beat him, you join the tournament. I'll stay up here. If these thugs get rowdy, I'll handle them.

<Character name>: Good plan. All we have to do is register to fight.

Trying to enter the pit before registering:

Fighting Pit Guard: The pit's not open for fighting yet. Stay out of there!

While going to register:

Child Spectator: Hey, dad? What are those walking ferns?

Rowdy Spectator: Sssh, son, don't call them plants. Watch the fighting and let daddy drink his beer.

Branthyn: Balteus Bloodletter's announcing the fights and handling regisrations[sic]. He's usually in Ascalon, but he likes to work these fights.

I'll find him.

Bezix the Brainstormer: Sorry, busy! Adjustments! Necessary!

Sorry, sorry.

Devoted Spectator: Coooo! Romperoo plays in the ring, makes fun with wrestling, Hoo! Quaggan likes to win.

Glad someone around here is having fun.

Elderly Commentator: You fightin' today? Well, I won't be announcin'. Pointless either way. Everyone knows Waine is gonna win.

We'll see about that.

Child Spectator: Hi! Who's your favorite fighter?

I'm my own favorite.

Oh, wow, you'll be fighting? I can't wait to see that!

Watch and learn, little buddy.

I bet you like Waine, hm?

Nah, but my dad does. Waine's no fun. He won't even sigh autographs.

No? Well, I'll kick him once, just for you.

What are my choices?

There's Bezix, but his golem is falling apart. That pirate Piete is super mean and dirty. I like Romperoo best!

I'll keep that all in mind.

Sorry, kid, no time for chatter.

Lionguard: Stupid guard duty. if[sic] I was posted on the walls, I could see the fights, but no, I drew gate. Meh.

That's too bad. It should be an interesting day.

Piete the Unwashed: Who are you, stridin' up to me like you're my equal! Back off, mate, before I grab a dolyak and turn you into a new kind of centaur.

Er...why do they call you Piete the Unwashed?

When I was younger, a sneak took a peek at me in a hot spring. I caught him and threw him clear over the Shiverpeaks!

What happened then?

From that day onward I won't take no bath. Rain water, sea spray, or the blood of my enemies: fine. But no baths!

Well, I guess it gives you an advantage in the ring. Wshew!

I see where this is going. Gotcha.

Whoa, there. I am out!

Romperoo: Quaggan is here to play and meet other races. Fear quaggan!

A quaggan gladiator? Interesting.

Rowdy Spectator: Are you betting or fighting? Smart money's on Waine to win, as always.

I won't be betting. Thanks.

Spectator (charr): C'mon! I need a win today. I'm running out of gold!

Bet on me. I'm going to win.

Spectator (norn): Careful with your money around here, stranger. Don't end up mostly broke like my buddy, here.

I will be. Thanks.

Svalkar the Skullcrusher: By the Bear! Waine can certainly fight! Bah. So much for fame and glory.

I'd like to fight him myself. Any tips?

You're asking for tips from me? Well, he's a hot-blooded man, I can say that. Swings wildly. Use his temper against him.

Noted. And what about that sword of his? (Same as "What's with that sword of his?")

Got it. Thanks.

What's with that sword of his?

Magic sword. Seems like cheating to me, but the crowd loves it. Gives him an edge. Ha! Get it?

Thanks for the advice.

Keep looking. You'll find glory someday.

Cinematic while registering:

Balteus Bloodletter: You there, sylvari! We don't see many of you around here. Either of you want to fight in the pit?

<Character name>: I will! Who's that guy down there now? I'd like to fight him.

Balteus Bloodletter: That's Waine, our current champion. First you have to survive the preliminary rounds. Then you can fight Waine.

After registering:

Balteus Bloodletter: Last call for competitors. Who else wants to fight in the pit?

Spectator (charr): Why'd I bet on that runty norn and not the human?

Spectator (norn): Waine always wins. I thought I told you that three bouts ago.

Spectator (charr): I know, I know. I just can't help rooting for the underdog.

Balteus Bloodletter: Are you fighting, or what?

I might. Give me a minute.

Branthyn: We're good to go. I'll help as much as I can without raising suspicion.

Thanks. I appreciate it.

Waine: Another fan? Whatever. Bug off, shrub. I'm busy.

Where'd you get that sword?

What do you care? It's mine, and if you don't back off, I'll cut you in half.

Fine.

Fine.

The first fight:

Balteus Bloodletter: All right, you toughs! Here we go! Fighting in the first round, the Brainstormer versus a new sylvari contender. Fighters, to the pit.

Branthyn: Good luck.

Bezix the Brainstormer: One more kick to the old gronk, and you'll be back in business.

Bezix the Brainstormer: My murderbot's ready! Sic 'em!

Balteus Bloodletter: The tournament will now begin. Bezix the Brainstormer fights a newcomer in this first round.

Bezix the Brainstormer: A sylvari? Oh dear, I'm going to chop you to bits and use you as kindling.

Branthyn cheers for <Character name>.

Bezix the Brainstormer: You can't stop genius!

Branthyn: Look out!

Bezix the Brainstormer: Help! I'm fading fast!

Balteus Bloodletter: (laugh) Another great match! Next up, Dirty Piete the Pirate.

Attempting to leave the arena during or between rounds:

Balteus Bloodletter: Where [sic] you think you're going? Get back in that ring!

Balteus Bloodletter points at <Character name>.

The second fight:

Balteus Bloodletter: Round two! Place your bets! Stinky Piete steps into the pit to face of against our sylvari challenger!

Piete the Unwashed: You look fresh from the Dream. By the time I'm done with you, you'll wish you were back in your pod.

Branthyn: Ready your weapons!

Piete the Unwashed: Hiding! Hiding!

Piete the Unwashed: Gotcha! Right in the face!

Piete the Unwashed: And I thought this was going to be an easy day...

Balteus Bloodletter: We have a winner! Next, you face Roomperoo[sic] the Terrible, scourge of the seas!

Spectator (charr): That sylvari ain't bad. Balteus, ten gold on that one!

Spectator (norn): You're gonna lose that coin as soon as Waine steps up.

Spectator (charr): I dunno. I got a feeling about this one!

Spectator (norn): You "got a feeling" about every loser today.

The third fight:

Balteus Bloodletter: We have a two-time winner, spectators! Let's raise the stakes! Place your bet's! It's sylvari versus...wait for it...quaggan!

Romperoo: Hoo, weed. you're out of your element. Quaggan is about to foo up your day.

Branthyn: Time to get started!

Devoted Spectator: Hooooo! Quaggan wants Romperoo to win! OooOooo!

Romperoo: Boo, boo, and boo! Quaggan hates!

Romperoo: NooOooOOoo!

Balteus Bloodletter: Well done! The next match will be for the championship!

Romperoo: You win. Quaggan is tired.

Devoted Spectator: Oh noooooo...

Final fight against Waine:

Balteus Bloodletter: The one, the only, the master of disaster, lord of the sword! Iiiiiiit's—Waine!

Rowdy Spectator: All right! Get 'em, Waine! Shove that plant back into the ground!

Child Spectator: Dad, I thought you said not to call them plants!

Rowdy Spectator: Do as I say, not as I do.

Waine: I'm not afraid of you. But I am ready for you. I've been ready for years.

Cinematic when nearly defeating Waine:

<Character name>: You're outmatched, Waine, but I'm not here for your life. I'm here for Caladbolg. Give me Riannoc's sword, and I'll let you go.

Waine: The sword is mine! Riannoc wasn't worthy of it. He was willing to give his life...for what?

<Character name>: For his people. And for you, Waine. He stayed to give you a head start from Mazdak. The lich would have chased you down to get Caladbolg. That's why Riannoc died.

Waine: No. You can't know. You weren't there! I'll kill you. Then, I'll put Riannoc and you smug sylvari behind me, for good!

After the cinematic:

Waine: I earned this sword! I suffered for it. You can't take it away from me!

Balteus Bloodletter: Looks like we've got a grudge match on our hands, folks! Good thing the ring's got a very broad policy on murder.

Waine: Riannoc was weak. He was weak! It wasn't my fault, it was his!

Branthyn: Dishonorable lout!

Balteus Bloodletter: Ow! And Waine is down for good! Looks like the victor's claiming his opponenet's sword as spoils of battle. Let's have a cheer for our new champion!

Outside of the arena:

Spectator (charr): I was right! I won! I'm rich!

Spectator (norn): I can't believe it. I guess sometimes even the lottery pays off.

(before picking up Caladbolg)

Branthyn: Amazing work! Hurry, claim Caladbolg as your prize!

I shall!

Baltheus Bloodletter: Fantastic fight! Great show! I don't suppose you might consider a permanent career in the pugilistic arts?

Not right now. See you.

Bezix the Brainstormer: Argh! Way are these power couplings so flighty? If you must blow up, you hunk of junk, could you do it in the right?

I'll just let you work this out.

Devoted Spectator: Foo...Romperoo, lose? Oooooo...well! Quaggan will try again tomorrow!

That's the right attitude. Good luck!

Elderly Commentator: Waine's defeated? Dead? No, it can't be!

He attacked me after I won the match. It was my life or his.

Waine was the pride of this arena. Think of the fans! Think of the legends! THINK OF THE MONEY!

You'll get over it. Bye.

I'm sorry you're upset. Take care.

Lionguard: Did that just happen? Did Waine get beaten and go seriously nuts?

He attacked me after I won. I had to kill him.

They say the fights make some people rabid, but I never thought--I'm glad you're okay, <Character Name>.

Thanks. Bye.

I'm sure your friends will give you the details. Take care.

Piete the Unwashed: Wolf as my witness, I can't believe Waine went crazy like that.

You're right on that one.

Romperoo: Foo! What a fighter! FooOOoo! Quaggan is exhausted!

Hang in there, buddy.

Spectator (charr): I'm rich! I could buy a place in Butcher's Block with these winnings!

Good for you, friend.

Spectator (norn): By Raven's bony knees! You beat Waine! I can't believe it. What an upset.

Told you so.

Svalkar the Skullcrusher: Hoped I'd get to fight him at least one more time. Oh well. No skin off my dolyak.

Maybe now you can be the king of the ring!

Cinematic with Branthyn:

Branthyn: You were amazing down there! Your combat prowess is really something.

Branthyn: I envy you the beating you gave that thug. I wish I'd been able to lend a hand.

<Character name>: I was prepared to let Waine go, but he wouldn't stop attacking me. I didn't want to kill him.

Branthyn: That's what makes you great Vigil material. You should seriously consider joining my order.

Branthyn: Waine had been carrying that burden for so long, it was probably a relief to die at the hands of someone who knew the truth.

<Character name>: You're right. I could see it in his eyes. He seemed almost...grateful.

Branthyn: Come, Herald. I'll take Caladbolg back to the Pale Tree, and then we'll find a way to make Mazdak pay.

After the cinematic:

Branthyn: I'll take Caladbolg to the Pale Tree. Meet you at the Omphalos Chamber.

I'll be there soon.

Omphalos Chamber

Upon entering the Omphalos Chamber:

Branthyn: Waine is not the only villain in this tale. We must bring down Mazdak.

Cai: Killing a lich is no easy matter. It will require significant planning.

Iowerth: Every creature has a weakness. Even Mazdak. If we have the knowledge, we will know where to strike.

Trahearne: Welcome, Herald. Join our circle—there is much to explain.

Cinematic with the Pale Tree:

Avatar of the Tree: Greetings, my courageous Herald. I have heard news of your victory. Caladbolg is returned, at last.

<Character name>: It was difficult, but worth it. Waine's been punished at last.

Iowerth: Herald, my research at the Priory proved fruitful. I know where Mazdak the Accursed was buried, and I believe I know his next target.

Iowerth: He's planning to attack a human town known as the "Ascalon Settlement." If we don't stop him, he'll wipe them out.

<Character name>: He's attacking Ascalon Settlement? They're a peaceful area—they have very few defenses. We've got to stop Mazdak!

Branthyn: We have the soldiers. If the Pale Tree would allow Caladbolg to be borne into battle, the Vigil can destroy Mazdak. All it takes is firepower, courage, and a direct assault.

Cai: You always think in a straight line! Look, Mazdak's forces will have to move through the centaur tribes to get to Ascalon Settlement.

Cai: Why not turn them against each other and take down two birds with one stone? The Order of Whispers could do that easily.

Iowerth: I know where Mazdak was buried. The Priory could explore his tomb, get past the traps, and find a way to destroy the lich while he slumbers. It's the logical approach.

Caithe: This lich must be destroyed. For Riannoc. For Tyria.

Caithe: Listen to me. The orders wish you to join them. If you do, they will lend you strength. With their backing, we can defeat Mazdak.

Caithe: It is your destiny to fight Zhaitan. Joining an order will help you achieve that goal. Choose wisely.

Avatar of the Tree: Herald, I place Caladbolg in your care. Choose how to defeat Mazdak, and know that the hopes of the Grove go with you.

Talking to your allies:

Avatar of the Tree: My brave Herald, it is time for you to defeat Mazdak the Accursed, and begin the journey of your Wyld Hunt.

Which order should I pick, Mother?

Fear not. I know you will choose wisely. All three are capable; all three have great respect for you.

Thank you for your trust, Mother.

I'll see the lich destroyed and Riannoc's spirit at rest. I swear it.

Branthyn: My friend, you must join the Vigil. With you among our ranks, we will finally be able to defeat the dragons. I can feel it!

You're so enthusiastic! Tell me, what's the Vigil's plan for Mazdak?

A heavy force of soldiers meets the lich and his Risen head-on. It will take strategy, and courage, but it will be glorious.

And where do I fit in?

You know the most about Mazdak, so you'll command the troops. What do you say?

Earnest battle suits me best. I'm ready to join the Vigil.

I need a moment to think.

Can you tell me more about the Vigil?

The Vigil is a military organization. Honor, duty, loyalty—and protection of the people of Tyria. Come, stand with us.

It sounds very noble. But how will the Vigil deal with Mazdak? (Same as "You're so enthusiastic! Tell me, what's the Vigil's plan for Mazdak?" above)

Let me get back to you on that.

Cai: The Order of Whispers could use another cunning agent, ready to fight the darkness. Will you join us?

I'm interested, but first—what about Mazdak?

With a little blackmail, we can have the settlement evacuated. It will only take a small push to get the local centaurs to take over.

How does that help us?

Centaurs are tough, vicious fighters. When Mazdak's undead come, we let the two forces decimate each other—and take on the lich ourselves.

Then give the humans back the settlement? Clever. Count me in.

I need to think about this for awhile.

Can you tell me more about being a member of the Order of Whispers?

We may be subtle, but the Order is dedicated. Join us, and discover mysteries, conspiracies, and hidden truths.

Tempting. But tell me, how will you deal with Mazdak? (Same as "I'm interested, but first—what about Mazdak?" above)

That's a lot to take in. Let me think about it.

Give me a little time to think it over.

Iowerth: Herald <Character Name>. The Durmand Priory would welcome your membership. We can offer so much to someone like you!

I'm interested, but let me hear more about your plan first.

The Priory discovered Mazdak's tomb. Although it will be rigged with traps, I'm sure we can find a way through to fight him.

Traps? Define "traps"?

Oh, the usual: spouts of flames, secret passages, pressure-plates on the floor... Do I see a little excitement in your eyes?

Absolutely. Sign me up for the Priory and your plan of attack.

Sounds interesting, but let me think about it a bit more.

Can you tell me more about being a member of the Durmand Priory?

Exploration, the recovery of lost knowledge, ancient tombs—really, the Priory's got everything. Join us, Herald?

Interesting. Tell me more about the plan to fight Mazdak. (Same as "I'm interested, but let me hear more about your plan first." above)

Let me consider my options.

I'll get back to you on it.

Caithe: Mazdak has Riannoc's blood on his hands. It's beyond time we ended his foul existence.

It will be done.

Trahearne: The Orders of Tyria compete for your membership? Impressive. I'm certain that, no matter your choice, you will do well.

What about you, Trahearne? Are you going to join an order?

No, I think not. My road is a solitary one. After Mazdak is defeated, I must return to studying Orr. I still have much to learn.

I understand.

Thank you for the confidence, my friend.

If joining the Vigil:

Branthyn: Glorious! You'll be a rising start in the Vigil. We'll handle the formalities after the battle.

Branthyn: Trahearne, will you accompany us on this adventure? Your knowledge of Orrian undead is second to none.

Trahearne: I'm not going to join your order, but yes. I will lend my aid.

Branthyn: It will be glorious, <Character name>! Your heroism, and the Vigil's strength. We'll make those dragons tremble!

I look forward to it.

If joining the Priory:

Iowerth: The Priory is honored that you'd join us. We'll handle the formalities after the battle.

Iowerth: Trahearne, will you accompany us on this adventure? Your knowledge of Orrian undead is second to none.

Trahearne: I'm not going to join your order, but yes. I will lend my aid.

Iowerth: Excellent! Such fantastic news! Gixx will be so pleased that you're joining us.

Gixx? Who's that?

Steward Gixx is the leader of the Durmand Priory. You'll find him charming—if you can get past the fact that he's an asura.

Noted. thanks for the information.

I look forward to meeting everyone.

If joining the Order of Whispers:

Cai: I'm glad you decided to join the Order of Whispers! We'll handle the formalities after the battle.

Cai: Trahearne, will you accompany us on this adventure? Your knowledge of Orrian undead is second to none.

Trahearne: I'm still not joining your order... but yes. I will lend my aid.

Cai: I knew you'd see it our way! The Preceptors will be happy that their gamble paid off.

Who are the Preceptors?

The Preceptors lead the Order of Whispers. They knew you'd make a great agent—that's why they sent me here in the first place.

I'm glad that they did.

I look forward to meeting the other agents. Thanks.

When not joining the NPC's order:

Branthyn: You're a noble sylvari, Herald. No matter what, it was my honor to meet you.

Mine as well.

Iowerth: Ah, a shame. I would have liked to work with you more. Take care, Herald, and fair fortune to you!

Thank you.

Cai: I'm glad you've chosen wisely, Herald, though I might have wished for another outcome. Good luck to you.

Thank you.

My story

“ I boldly engaged in a pit-fighting competition, and through courage and skill, defeated Waine and reclaimed the Pale Tree's sword. Riannoc is avenged on his betrayer at last! — My story

Notes

• The choice made at the end of this mission will lock you into the chosen order for the rest of the personal story.
• If you join another player's version of this story mission, you will not be able to help them directly. Instead, your skills will be replaced by a skill to grant them might, one to apply vulnerability to their foe, one to apply rejuvination, one to daze your target, and one to throw a bundle.

---

Sylvari storyline