The Way Forward

The Way Forward

Year

1330 AE

Storyline

Path of Fire

Chapter

The Way Forward

Location

Free City of Amnoon
(Crystal Oasis)
Elon Riverlands
(Crystal Desert)
Kesho
(Champion's Gap)

Level

80

Preceded by

Facing the Truth

Followed by

The Departing

API

477

Route for NPCs Loading screen

The Way Forward is the eighth chapter of the Path of Fire storyline.

Objectives

Somewhere in the Desert

• Check in with a scout in the Elon Riverlands to start your search.
• Optional: Speak to Zalambur before entering the Elon Riverlands.
• Ask around the Elon Riverlands for any useful information.
• Ask around the Elon Riverlands for more information on a lost city.
• Ask around the Elon Riverlands to determine the location of Kesho, the lost Forgotten city.
• Go to the skimmer ranch and ask about Kesho.
• Search the western desert for the entrance to Kesho.
• Find the fissure that leads to the entrance to Kesho.
• Search the caverns for the entrance to Kesho.

The Forgotten City

• Leap into the pit leading to Kesho.
• Scour Kesho for information.
• Restore the power to Kesho.
• Investigate the Exalted.
• Defeat the three Forged Exalted.
  
• Ask the Exalted about Kesho.
• Lead Sadizi to one of the pedestals.
• Listen to Sadizi as he channels the pedestal.
• Lead Sadizi to another pedestal.
• Listen to Sadizi as he channels the pedestal.
• Lead Sadizi to one of the pedestals, or go down the hallway to learn the Forgotten's plan.
• Listen to Sadizi as he channels the pedestal.
• Lead Sadizi to one of the pedestals, or go down the hallway to learn the Forgotten's plan.
• Listen to Sadizi as he channels the pedestal.
• Lead Sadizi to one of the pedestals, or go down the hallway to learn the Forgotten's plan.
• Listen to Sadizi as he channels the pedestal.
• Go down the hallway to learn the Forgotten's plan.
• Defeat the Forged sentry.
  
• Break down the door.
• Activate the pedestal.
• Discuss what you've learned.

Rewards

• Forgotten Holdings

Walkthrough

Elon Riverlands

There are many NPCs which have markers above their heads indicating that they are able to offer advice within the zone, some more useful than others. Speaking to the following NPCs in order will minimise the number of conversations:

• Herder Tarrik - the scout that you encounter when entering the Elon Riverlands.
• Follower Xunn - west and slightly south from Tarrik. Recommends that you speak with Glokk (and adds a green circle around him to your map).
• Scholar Glokk - southwest of Augury Rock. Glokk advises you to ask the locals about a lost city.
• Nyala - in the big tent at First Camp. She directs you to the refugee camp to the south, at Arid Gladefields.
• Exile - in an eastern tent in the refugee camp, north of the waterline.
• Elder Muriel - sitting just beside the exile. She tells you about Kesho, the city of the Forgotten.
• Assistant Foreman Kofi - the renown heart NPC at the western side of the same camp. He recommends you get a Skimmer.
• Skimmer Trainer Ardra - by the Skimmer Ranch Waypoint. If it's your first time through the story, you'll need to obtain a Skimmer by completing the heart.
• Defector Harun - head north out of the ranch across the river of quicksand to the marked area. Harun suggests you look in a cleft in the sand.

Astride your skimmer, descend into the cavern opening to find an underground network of quicksand-filled caverns. Move south towards Sandwallow Retreat. Enter the hole and the story instance.

Bug:

When replaying the story for achievements, the entrance point for the instance is obstructed by an updraft of sand unless all previous objectives in the chapter are complete.

Forgotten City of Kesho

Interact with the Exalted Pedestal, then ascend to a ledge in the southeast near a glowing dust cloud, dropping through it. Then pick up the Power Cell under an awning near where you drop down, and activate the Exalted Pedestal. This pedestal is directly NW of the awning which is in the SE corner.

Move to the now-revealed Exalted, Sadizi, who tasks you with destroying the three Forged Exalted you just powered up. After they're destroyed, lead him to one pedestal after another (at least two, or all five if you want to hear all the lore, and get an achievement).

Enter the hallway and defeat the Forged Sentry there. Smash the door and activate the winged artifact. After a cutscene, and some more conversation, the mission ends.

Achievements

The Way Forward	Path of Fire: Act 2	1  1
Find answers out in the desert.Journal: The Way Forward Completed Reward: Stash of Kournan Coins	Completed the Way Forward	1

• Complete the mission.

Fast Asleep	Path of Fire: Act 2	1
Defeat two of the Forged Exalted before they wake up.Story Instance: The Way Forward	Defeated Two Forged Exalted before They Woke Up	1

• The Forged Exalted will awaken when their stack of   Waking Up reaches 100. Try to be near one of the pedestals before they turn hostile so you can begin bursting as soon as possible.

Guided Remembrance	Path of Fire: Act 2	1
Take Sadizi to unlock all five pedestals.Story Instance: The Way Forward	Unlocked All Five Pedestals	1

• The mission objectives will update after leading Sadizi to only two pedestals; lead him to all five before entering the hallway. They will be marked clearly on your minimap.

Walk a Fine Line	Path of Fire: Act 2	2
Reach the very top of the central chamber.Story Instance: The Way Forward	Reached the Top of the Central Chamber	2

• To the south, up on a ledge, you will find a golden platform with a rope attached; this is the start of the jump puzzle that leads to the top of the chamber.
• You can walk on the black ropes that are strung all around the room
• This achievement is easier with the third rank of Springer mastery. Without this mastery, the first jump is more difficult and requires going via a palm tree at the south end of the chamber, and up onto the ledge from there.
• Strongly recommend that you uncheck 'Double-Tab to Evade' on the first tab of your game options for this achievement. It is quite easy to dodge-roll off the ropes or platforms.
• Skyscale makes this jumping puzzle easier than even springer.

NPCs

Crystal Oasis and Elon Riverlands

Allies

Asura

• Follower Xunn
• Scholar Glokk
• Scholar Murro
• Scholar Nimmin

Charr

• Follower Lucius Anvilblade

Norn

• Follower Dawnwynn

Humans

• Adisa
• Assistant Foreman Kofi
• Defector
• Defector Harun
• Ebele
• Elder Muriel
• Exile
• Herder Tarrik
• Imani
• Juma
• Nyala
• Orphan
• Skimmer Trainer Ardra
• Zalambur

Kesho

Allies

Asura

• Taimi (voice only)

Dragons

• Vlast (voice only)

Exalted

• Sadizi

Forgotten

• Josso Essher (voice only)

Foes

Forged

• Forged Exalted
• Forged Sentry

Objects

• Chamber Door
• Exalted Pedestal
• Power Cell
• Strange Burning Scroll
• Worn Journal

Dialogue

In Zalambur's Office

Zalambur: Ah, Commander—a little bird told me you and your friends went on a pilgrimage to the Mists.

Zalambur: I am pleased, and a little surprised, to see that you survived the journey. What can I do for you?

<Character name>: We're combing the desert in search of...something.

Zalambur: You're in luck. I have loads of something. You're welcome to peruse it at your leisure.

Zalambur: This is the part where you clarify your statement and tell me what you're actually looking for.

<Character name>: What do you know about the Riverlands? Are there any...peculiarities I should know about?

Zalambur: Hm...well, there's a lot of history in those parts—the kind of history that attracts treasure hunters.

Zalambur: Occasionally, one would pass through the Grand Sahil on their way south, eyes alight with visions of gold and glory.

<Character name>: Did they find anything?

Zalambur: Don't know, I'm afraid. But I know someone who might. A Durmand Priory scholar stationed out that way, name of Glokk.

Zalambur: If anybody can point you in the right direction, it'd be him. Good luck!

In the Elon Riverlands

Upon entering the Riverlands:

<Character name>: All right. Now where do I start?

<Character name>: Maybe a scout can point me in the right direction.

Speaking with Herder Tarrik:

Herder Tarrik: The Followers of Ascension are constantly seeking different methods to reach ascension. Follower Xunn and his golem collect Forgotten glyphs in hopes of decoding their secrets. Follower Dawnwynn fights to clear Augury Rock of the Branded in an effort to further her legend. And Follower Adisa searches for Slivers of Vlast for Follower Lucius Anvilblade to weaponize.

Herder Tarrik: At Augury's Shadow are several other Tyrians who have come to seek Ascension.

Herder Tarrik: West of there is the First Camp, where you'll find Followers that were here before the Tyrians arrived.

Herder Tarrik: Far to the south are refugees from Joko's kingdom. They may know of other places of power.

Looking for Scholar Glokk

Speaking with Scholar Murro:

If spoke with Zalambur:

<Character name>: I'm looking for a Priory scholar named Glokk...I'm told he knows a great deal about the region. Know where I can find him?

Scholar Murro: Glokk's hyperintelligent, but absentminded. Tends to lose himself in his work, and there's plenty to do around here.

Otherwise:

<Character name>: I'm looking for... something, supposedly located in the Crystal Desert. A place of great power, or maybe an object...

Scholar Murro: How nondescript! Well, if you're looking for information on the region, the best source would be my superior, Glokk.

Scholar Murro: He knows more than most.

<Character name>: Hm... Sounds like someone I might want to talk to. Any idea where I could find him?

Scholar Murro: Glokk's hyperintelligent, but absentminded. Tends to lose himself in his work, and there's plenty to do around here.

Speaking with Follower Xunn:

Follower Xunn: You there! You don't look busy. I require your assistance.

<Character name>: And I require yours.

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Follower Xunn: Well, that's awfully rude. Getting right to the chase, eh? Your chase, I mean.

<Character name>: If you'd like my help, some information might put me in the mood.

Follower Xunn: My experience with such matters is strictly scholarly. I've got better things to do than chase myths. So: no.

Follower Xunn: Try Augury's Shadow. Someone there might be able to help you.

<Character name>: Augury's Shadow? I'll check it out. Thanks.

Follower Xunn: Wait, wait—I gave you information. Now what about my plight?

<Character name>: It'll have to wait. But perhaps I'll see you later.

Follower Xunn: (grumbling) I hate this place.

Alternate conversation with Follower Xunn:

Follower Xunn: Are you—aren't you the Pact Commander? It's a pleasure to meet you! The name's Xunn. Big fan of your work.

Follower Xunn: Something I can help you with?

If learned about Glokk:

<Character name>: I'm looking for an associate of yours named Glokk. I'm told he has some information I need.

Follower Xunn: Oh no-is he missing again? Again again? I don't think I've never met a more distractible asura.

Follower Xunn: Here—I'll mark them on your map. Hope that gets you where you need to go. (while pointing out the map)

Otherwise:

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for...something. A place of special significance, possibly related to Vlast. Any ideas?

Follower Xunn: Hm... Well. I'm pretty focused in my expertise. Forgotten glyphs, mostly.

Follower Xunn: If you're looking for someone with the "big picture" on the Crystal Desert, you'll want to talk to krewe chief Glokk.

<Character name>: Where can I find him?

Follower Xunn: Here—I'll mark them on your map. Hope that gets you where you need to go. (while pointing out the map)

Follower Xunn: And again: big fan! Don't die out there in the wastes!

Speaking with Follower Dawnwynn:

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for...something. A place of special significance, possible related to Vlast. Any ideas?

Follower Dawnwynn: Sorry. I just arrived, so I have no idea what you're talking about. But it sounds interesting. Good luck.

Speaking with Imani:

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Imani: Vlast? I mean, I've heard the legends, but that's all they are. Legends and myths.

<Character name>: Myths aren't always fabrications. Some of them end up being true.

Imani: Heh, that's for sure. Particularly in these parts. But not all of Nyala's tallest tales are so credible.

Imani: Not that it bothers the kids she teaches, of course.

Imani: She's in the tent just over there, if you'd like to inquire further.

Speaking with Nyala:

Nyala: Greetings, wayfarer. Have you come to join us in the search for Ascension?

<Character name>: Maybe later. For now, I need information.

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Orphan: What's that mean? Special significance?

<Character name>: Uh... For the purposes of discussion, it means "really interesting."

Orphan: But—that could be anything around here!

<Character name>: Tell me about it.

Nyala: Didn't you see someone with the Durmand Priory the other day? What were they looking for?

Orphan: Oh! That's right! A bunch of asura came to the Riverlands. I met one of them! He was mean, but really smart!

Nyala: His name is Glokk. He's...a bit impatient, but he knows a lot about the area.

Nyala: He came through this way asking vague questions, like you are now.

Speaking with Juma:

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Juma: Vlast, eh? Hm. He was born here, I know that much. In a city that was eventually swallowed by the desert.

Juma: Beyond that, it's all rumor and conjecture. Local legends and such.

Speaking with Follower Lucius Anvilblade:

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: Ah, a new arrival. Come to help the Followers of Ascension? We could use a pair of hands like yours.

<Character name>: Maybe later. For now, I need information.

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: Vlast? Only that he's from here...but that's about it.

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: That's all I know. I'm new here.

<Character name>: It's no problem. So am I.

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: You know, come to think of it—Follower Adisa knows more about Vlast than any of us.

Speaking with Adisa:

Adisa: You there. Have you seen any glimmering scales in your sojourns? I'm collecting Slivers of Vlast from the Branded.

<Character name>: I'm afraid not. But I have a question for you.

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Adisa: Well, Vlast was born here. If the place you seek is in the Riverlands, I would hope it has something to do with him.

Adisa: Pilgrims came from all over Tyria to see him. The elders used to direct wayward travelers to follow the river.

Adisa: Check out the camp west of here. The folks there might know more.

Speaking with Ebele:

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Ebele: Only rumors...and the occasional ravings of treasure hunters passing through.

Ebele: But I'm hardly an expert when it comes to the Riverlands—I'd wager the locals know more than I do.

Speaking with Scholar Nimmin:

<Character name>: Excuse me. I'm in need of information.

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Scholar Nimmin: Special significance? Well, I did have the most spectacular romantic encounter of my life on an overlook just thataway—

<Character name>: Not quite like that. What I mean is—

Scholar Nimmin: Let me set the scene for you!

<Character name>: Please don't.

Scholar Nimmin: Sunset. I'm looking out over the Riverlands, brooding and pensive. A rebel with a heart of gold... If only she would notice.

Scholar Nimmin: And just then: she arrives! Dressed to kill and wearing the most alluring fragrance. But why?

<Character name>: Please stop talking for a moment.

Scholar Nimmin: Then I realize: This is no chance encounter. She's on a mission.

Scholar Nimmin: And her sole objective: taming a heart that, by its very nature, must run free.

<Character name>: Fantastic. I need to go now.

Speaking with Assistant Foreman Kofi:

Assistant Foreman Kofi: Something you need, wayfarer?

<Character name>: I'm scouring the Riverlands for a place of special significance. It might be related to Vlast. Anything come to mind?

Assistant Foreman Kofi: Related to Vlast? That could be a lot of places around here. He's from the Riverlands, after all—

Assistant Foreman Kofi: I'm sorry, he was from the Riverlands. I only recently learned of his death, and...

Assistant Foreman Kofi: (sigh) These are dark times, indeed.

Speaking with Scholar Glokk:

Scholar Glokk: Aah! Don't you dare sneak up on me like that!

Scholar Glokk: You can get yourself killed doing that in a place like this! I'm far more dangerous than I look, you know!

Scholar Glokk: I'm sorry. This place has me a bit on edge.

<Character name>: I'll wear a bell next time. You're with the Priory, aren't you? I need information.

Scholar Glokk: Concerning...?

<Character name>: I'm searching the desert for...something.

Scholar Glokk: I need more.

<Character name>: A place of special significance. Possibly related to the dragon Vlast.

Scholar Glokk: You're not working with much, are you?

Scholar Glokk: These lands are rich with history, so that could be any number of... Wait. Vlast, you said?

<Character name>: Yes. Anything come to mind?

Scholar Glokk: Well, since my arrival I've heard mention here and there of an ancient, lost city somewhere in the Riverlands.

Scholar Glokk: A hub of Forgotten activity—or it was before the fall, anyway. Supposedly, Vlast was born there.

Scholar Glokk: If you're looking for...how you'd put it? "A place of special significance"? The lost city certainly fits the bill.

<Character name>: Sounds like you know a lot about it. Any idea where I can find it?

Scholar Glokk: No idea. Hence "heard mention here and there". All I've gathered on the topic is rumor and conjecture.

<Character name>: A lost city... That must be what we're looking for. I'd better check with the locals.

Looking for the lost city

Speaking with Follower Lucius Anvilblade:

(talking to him for the first time)

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: Ah, a new arrival. Come to help the Followers of Ascension? We could use a pair of hands like yours.

<Character name>: Maybe later. For now, I need information.

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: Lost city... I could swear I had heard something about that from the locals. Apparently, it was where Vlast was born.

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: That's the long and short of it, though. Follower Adisa may know more.

Speaking with Adisa:

(talking to him for the first time)

Adisa: You there. Have you seen any glimmering scales in your sojourns? I'm collecting Slivers of Vlast from the Branded.

<Character name>: I'm afraid not. But I have a question for you.

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Adisa: Lost city...only rumors. Supposedly there was once a grand city somewhere in the region. Vlast's birthplace.

<Character name>: Any idea where it's supposed to be?

Adisa: I'm afraid not. But folks in the camp west of here might know more.

Speaking with Juma:

(subsequent visit only)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Juma: Only lost city I know of is where Vlast was born. The Forgotten city. According to legend, it was reclaimed by the desert.

<Character name>: Any idea where it's supposed to be?

Juma: Not specifically, but I ran into a couple of treasure hunters looking for it not too long ago.

Speaking with Imani:

(subsequent visit only)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Imani: Lost city? Uh...nothing comes to mind immediately. But I'm hardly an expert.

Imani: You should ask Nyala—she's in the tent just over there, tending to the children.

Speaking with Nyala:

(talking to her for the first time)

Nyala: Greetings, wayfarer. Have you come to join us in the search for Ascension?

<Character name>: Maybe later. For now, I need information.

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Orphan: What about the Forgotten city? The Forgotten were really interesting! They took care of Vlast since he was born!

<Character name>: Sounds like you know a lot about it. Any idea where I can find it?

Orphan: Uh...

Nyala: What about the river folk? Suppose they might know?

Orphan: Oh! Yeah! Go ask the river folk!

Nyala: You'll find them south of here, settled along the riverbank. They'll know more about the story.

Speaking with Follower Dawnwynn:

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Follower Dawnwynn: A lost city? Can't help you. But if you find it, and dangerous things live there, let me know and I'll come running!

Speaking with Follower Xunn:

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Follower Xunn: There are all kinds of curiosities in this region. Lost city? Sure, why not? Wouldn't surprise me, anyway.

Follower Xunn: But beyond that, no, nothing specific. Ask around Augury's Shadow.

Speaking with Scholar Nimmin:

(If spoken with him earlier)

<Character name>: I have a feeling I'm going to regret this, but I have another question for you.

(Otherwise)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I'm in need of information.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Scholar Nimmin: Lost city? How do you lose a city?

Scholar Nimmin: I mean, I'm forgetful. I've lost plenty of things. But a city?

<Character name>: Just...just answer the question, please.

Scholar Nimmin: Once I lost my favorite journal. Looked everywhere for it. And I never did find it, but you know what I did find?

<Character name>: Please say "a lost city."

Scholar Nimmin: Every single left sock I had ever misplaced. I swear, if it's not in the last place you look, it's...well, elsewhere.

<Character name>: Fantastic. I need to go now.

Speaking with Assistant Foreman Kofi:

(talking to him for the first time)

Assistant Foreman Kofi: Something you need, wayfarer?

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Assistant Foreman Kofi: Only in stories. Supposedly it was where Vlast was born, but it's long gone now.

<Character name>: What happened to the city?

Assistant Foreman Kofi: Joko happened. When he redirected the river to lay claim to this region, he ravaged the entire desert.

Assistant Foreman Kofi: Those stretches of quicksand are his doing. As was the sinking of the city. According to legend, I mean.

Speaking with Ebele:

(subsequent visit only)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Ebele: A lost city? I've heard of one here and there, mostly by way of raving treasure hunters passing through.

<Character name>: Any idea where it's supposed to be?

Ebele: Not exactly, but supposedly there's a sprawling ruin buried in the desert.

Ebele: Plenty have come looking, but as far as I know, nobody's actually found it.

<Character name>: I appreciate the insight. Be well.

Speaking with the Exile:

Exile: Excuse me—do you have business with Elder Muriel?

<Character name>: I'm searching the Riverlands for something important. I've been canvassing the area in search of information.

Exile: She does love visitors... But you should know something. Muriel is very old, and her answers...are not always clear.

Exile: Please be patient with her. And try to speak up. Her hearing isn't what it used to be.

Speaking with Elder Muriel:

Elder Muriel: Ah... And who are you? I don't know your face. But I like it.

<Character name>: Oh—uh, thanks. I'm sorry to disturb you, but I was hoping I could ask you a question.

<Character name>: Do you know anything about a lost city located somewhere in the Riverlands?

Elder Muriel: A city swallowed whole by the desert itself... Kesho. Yes.

<Character name>: "Kesho"? Is that the name of the city?

Elder Muriel: City? No. A nursery. Where the Forgotten toiled... Where Vlast's eyes first opened... Where Glint gave us her legacy.

<Character name>: I need to find Kesho, Elder Muriel. Can you tell me where it is?

Elder Muriel: A terrible journey across terrible lands. Beyond the sinking dunes.

<Character name>: I see. Thank you.

<Character name>: Kesho... Vlast's birthplace. Now I just have to find it.

Looking for Kesho

Speaking with Follower Xunn:

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Follower Xunn: Kesho—why does that name sound so familiar to me?

Follower Xunn: Hm... I'm sorry, I'm afraid I can't help you there. The name sounds familiar, but that's all I've got.

Speaking with Follower Dawnwynn:

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: I'm trying to locate the city of Kesho. Have you heard of it?

Follower Dawnwynn: A city named Kesho? Can't say that I have. Sounds more like an asura name, if you ask me.

Speaking with Follower Lucius Anvilblade:

(talking to him for the first time)

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: Ah, a new arrival. Come to help the Followers of Ascension? We could use a pair of hands like yours.

<Character name>: Maybe later. For now, I need information.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: Ah, Kesho—that's the name of the place. The lost city, where Vlast is from. I knew I had heard that somewhere before.

Follower Lucius Anvilblade: But that's about all I know. Check in with Follower Adisa.

Speaking with Adisa:

(talking to him for the first time)

Adisa: You there. Have you seen any glimmering scales in your sojourns? I'm collecting Slivers of Vlast from the Branded.

<Character name>: I'm afraid not. But I have a question for you.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Adisa: Kesho... I've heard that name before.

Adisa: Don't remember the particulars, but I recall a nursery rhyme that invoked the name. Picked it up from one of the elders.

Adisa: It was about pilgrims journeying to the Riverlands to seek the Forgotten. They'd follow the river to get there.

Adisa: They'd travel north from the bend for a spell before turning west. But that's all I can remember.

Speaking with Imani:

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Imani: Kesho? Never heard of it. But Nyala might know something...

Imani: Worth a shot, at least. Good luck.

Speaking with Nyala:

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Orphan: I know! I know! From the song Elder Muriel used to sing to us when she'd visit!

Nyala: Oh, that's right. I don't recall how it went—do you?

Orphan: Uh... Something something, Kesho, something something, sunk into the sea of sand. Wait—no, that's not right. It doesn't rhyme.

Nyala: It doesn't have to.

Orphan: But if I remember anything else, I'll let you know!

<Character name>: I appreciate the help. Thank you both.

Orphan: YEAH! I helped!

Speaking with Scholar Nimmin:

(If spoken with him earlier)

<Character name>: I have a feeling I'm going to regret this, but I have another question for you.

(Otherwise)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I'm in need of information.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Scholar Nimmin: Kesho? Y'mean...oh. Wait. Kesho. I know who you're talking about.

<Character name>: No, Kesho's a place—

Scholar Nimmin: I met him at a krewe mixer some years ago, if memory serves. Short fellow, yes? Loud, reeking of solvent—

<Character name>: Please. Stop talking.

Scholar Nimmin: ...And the most hideous laughter I've ever heard— (imitating laughter)

<Character name>: Thanks. I'm walking away now.

(If spoken with him earlier)

<Character name>: Why did I think that'd turn out differently this time?

Speaking with Juma:

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Juma: Kesho... Oh, Kesho. Yeah, that's the place.

<Character name>: Go on.

Juma: These treasure hunters I ran into not long ago—they were looking for a lost city.

Juma: I had forgotten the name until you said it. It was definitely Kesho.

<Character name>: Did they find it? Where were they headed?

Juma: Toward the wastes. They needed a way to get past all the quicksand, and I suggested they hit up the skimmer camp.

Juma: No idea what happened to them, or if they ever found it. I never saw them again.

Speaking with Ebele:

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Ebele: Kesho... I know I've heard that name somewhere...

Ebele: That's right—I overheard Ardra shouting at someone about Kesho the other day. It's a place? I thought it was a person—

<Character name>: Ardra? Where can I find her?

Ebele: She's to the west of here. But, uh... Just a forewarning, she's a little prickly when it comes to treasure hunters.

<Character name>: I'm not hunting for treasures. I'm searching for answers.

Ebele: I'm not sure Ardra will appreciate the distinction, but...good luck with your search just the same.

Speaking with Assistant Foreman Kofi:

(subsequent visit)

<Character name>: Excuse me. I have another question for you.

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Assistant Foreman Kofi: Kesho... Ah, yes, that's the name. Vlast's birthplace. Swallowed by the desert, according to legend.

<Character name>: Any idea where it's supposed to be?

Assistant Foreman Kofi: If it exists, it'll be out there—in the wastes, beyond the quicksand. A dangerous place to go on foot.

Assistant Foreman Kofi: If you intend to travel there, you'll want to make a stop at the skimmer camp west of here.

Assistant Foreman Kofi: The proprietor there has been selling skimmers to adventurers for years.

<Character name>: Years? You must see a lot of treasure hunters come through this way.

Assistant Foreman Kofi: A great many. All searching for the treasures of the lost city.

Assistant Foreman Kofi: And to my knowledge...none have returned. You'd be wise to keep that in mind, stranger.

Assistant Foreman Kofi: If you journey that way, make sure to bring your skimmer along.

Assistant Foreman Kofi: You look like you can handle yourself, but...the desert eats the unwary. Remember that.

Speaking with Skimmer Trainer Ardra:

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Skimmer Trainer Ardra: Kesho... It's been a while since anybody's asked me about Kesho. How'd you come across that name?

<Character name>: With great difficulty, I promise you. What can you tell me about it?

Skimmer Trainer Ardra: You're different from the others. Maybe you are after something more than riches and glory.

Skimmer Trainer Ardra: If Kesho truly exists, you'll find it to the northwest of here—where it was claimed by the desert.

Skimmer Trainer Ardra: If you head that way, you'll want to bring your skimmer along—otherwise the desert will claim you too.

Speaking with Defector Harun:

<Character name>: I'm searching for a lost city called Kesho. What do you know about it?

Defector Harun: Kesho... Where have I heard that name before?

Defector: What ever happened to that adventurer we ran into last year? Wasn't he looking for some kind of lost city?

Defector Harun: Oh, that's right! That was the fellow.

Defector Harun: He swore up and down he had found a legendary lost city, and he asked us to join his search for a cut of the treasure.

<Character name>: What happened to him? Where'd he go?

Defector: See the fissure to the north? He ventured into the caves beneath it—and that was the last we saw of him.

<Character name>: Did anyone go with him?

Defector Harun: (chuckles) With so many Branded in the area? We know better than that.

Defector: Shame the adventurer didn't.

Upon finding the pit:

<Character name>: Forgotten statues...and they seem to be guarding that pit. Could this be the place?

In Kesho

Upon entering Kesho:

<Character name>: Hello?

Taimi: Hello? Commander, are you talking to me? Your signal's really strong. How'd you do that?

<Character name>: I jumped into a deep pit.

Taimi: Good job! Wherever you are must be on a ley-line nexus.

<Character name>: Listen, I found something: a lost city called Kesho. It's buried, so I could use your help finding my way around.

Taimi: Buried city? Really? Crud, I wish I was there. Describe what you see. Everything. In detail!

<Character name>: There's sand drifts and debris everywhere... And pedestals like the ones in Tarir. With Exalted sentries floating on them.

Upon approaching an Unknown Exalted:

<Character name>: Something about this Exalted...it's moving, so it's alive, but it's not responding to my presence.

Taimi: Not responding? Poke it with something. No, no, wait, don't. That's poor research etiquette.

Taimi: Well, maybe just a light poke. Argghh, I want to be there.

Upon finding a crystal (before the control panel):

<Character name>: Found a glowing crystal. And a dead body.

Taimi: Pick it up. The crystal, not the body. If it's glowing, it may be a power source. There should be a control panel nearby.

Upon finding the control panel:

<Character name>: Here's something that could be a console, but it looks dead.

Taimi: Probably needs a power source. Look around for a crystal or anything bright and shiny.

Upon interacting with the Worn Journal:

No way in and no way out. Running out of food. Have to [indecipherable]

Put it down.

Approaching another Unknown Exalted:

<Character name>: I know the Exalted in Tarir use these pedestals to "sleep" and recharge, but this is different.

<Character name>: This is more like...living death. And they have this red glow.

Taimi: They're glowy red Exalted? Grrr, I want you to poke it so bad.

<Character name>: I am not going to poke the Exalted for you, Taimi.

Approaching another Unknown Exalted (before restoring power):

<Character name>: These pedestals are dark. No lights, no sound. Nothing.

Taimi: Maybe the power's shut off. Look for a way to turn it back on.

Finding glowing crystal (after checking the control panel):

<Character name>: Found a glowing crystal. And a dead body.

Taimi: Hope the crystal's not what killed the body. Only one way to find out. Pick it up.

If picked up the glowing crystal while Taimi was speaking:

<Character name>: I already did.

Taimi: Great! If you're still alive, try plugging it into the console.

Upon restoring power:

<Character name>: Okay, the power's on.

Taimi: What was that noise?

<Character name>: A door just opened. There's another Exalted inside...not red like the others. Looks dormant, but maybe I can wake it.

Taimi: Well, carry on, then. You know what you're doing.

Upon approaching the Exalted:

Unknown Exalted: No! Did Balthazar send you? Or Joko? I will defend this sacred ground with my life.

<Character name>: Wait! I'm a friend.

Taimi: We don't like Balthazar, either! The commander's on a mission to stop him. Vlast is the only clue we've got.

Unknown Exalted: What have you done? The pedestals are reviving the Forged!

Taimi: The glowy red ones are Forged? Good thing you didn't poke 'em.

Unknown Exalted: You claim to owe Balthazar no allegiance. Prove yourself. Destroy his creations!

After defeating the three Forged Exalted:

<Character name>: Balthazar's the reason I'm here. He's working to kill Kralkatorrik, and we're trying to stop him.

Unknown Exalted: I wish you'd come sooner. Balthazar was here recently with that wretched lich, Joko.

<Character name>: Apparently, I'm the chosen champion and protector of Glint's second scion, Aurene.

Unknown Exalted: If you've been entrusted with the role of the scion's protector, then it would be my honor to assist you. I am Sadizi. Welcome to Kesho.

Sadizi: What you see is what's left of the Forgotten's first attempt to pacify the Elder Dragons. It failed.

Sadizi: This site was abandoned, but a few of us remained as its caretakers.

<Character name>: Why were Balthazar and Joko here?

Sadizi: They came seeking the Forgotten magics that imbue battle armor with living spirits. The same that created the Exalted.

Sadizi: They quickly discovered that they could use those magics to create these...abominations. The horrors they call "Forged."

Sadizi: The red Exalted you fought were the results of their early experiments on us. Left behind as mindless sentries.

Sadizi: In the chaos, I sealed myself in that chamber to avoid the fate of the others.

<Character name>: That was smart. Now you can help us make sure Balthazar doesn't succeed.

Sadizi: Balthazar thought he'd destroyed the information you seek, but the sentries he left behind were actually protecting it.

<Character name>: What do you mean?

Taimi: The pedestals!

Sadizi: Your invisible friend is correct. I can reveal the secrets contained in any pedestal you choose.

Upon interacting with the first pedestal:

Josso Essher: Glint was the key.

Josso Essher: She was perfect for our purposes—a scion of an Elder Dragon and a Crystal Dragon herself, with a mind of her own.

Josso Essher: We did our work well. Glint actively rejected Kralkatorrik, and she brought forth more scions to join our cause.

Sadizi: That was Josso Essher, one of the legacy's main architects. Sadly, he was lost in the attempt to convert Kralkatorrik.

<Character name>: Wait. "Convert" Kralkatorrik?

Sadizi: Yes. The Forgotten dared to try, but the hunger of the Elder Dragons is too strong. It proved a tragic failure.

Sadizi: More of your questions can be answered by consulting the other pedestals.

Upon interacting with the second pedestal:

Josso Essher: The most important lesson an Exalted must learn is: though Elder Dragons are unimaginably powerful, they can be killed.

Josso Essher: Each has a distinct flaw.

Josso Essher: Mordremoth, for example, dominates thought. But its most powerful asset—its mind—is also its greatest liability.

Josso Essher: Kralkatorrik's unique strength—its power to crystalize objects—is also its singular weakness.

Josso Essher: Its creations share a fundamental resonance that connects them back to the crystal dragon and makes them vulnerable to each other.

Taimi: A fundamental resonance that makes them vulnerable...

Taimi: Whoa! So that's why Balthazar was after Vlast! He needed a scion of Glint to kill Kralkatorrik! But Vlast's gone, so that means...

Taimi: Wait, there's one thing I don't understand.

Taimi: If Glint and the Forgotten knew what killing an Elder Dragon would do to Tyria, why would they rear Vlast and Aurene?

Sadizi: The answer is locked behind that door. If you're done with the pedestals, we can proceed.

Upon interacting with the third pedestal:

Vlast: Kesho is supposed to be my home, but it's more of a cage...or a tomb. I prefer the open sky.

Vlast: I feel trapped here. This place reminds me that I cannot act, no matter how eager I am. Not until the full legacy is ready.

<Character name>: That's Vlast.

Sadizi: We encouraged him to record his thoughts for reference and posterity. He didn't contribute often, and was never glad to do it.

Taimi: I believe it. He sounds super frustrated and restless...like a genius progeny suffering through Intro to Golemancy.

Upon interacting with the fourth pedestal:

Vlast: I can't stand it any longer. The constant talk of duty and destiny, the forced reverence. It disgusts me. Enrages me.

Vlast: My Exalted attendants are durable, but still mortal...insignificant. They quake with fear at the slightest angry hiss.

Vlast: (snarl) I have a job to do, and the power to do it. They can't help me. Why do they pretend they can?

Sadizi: Sadly, Vlast matured in isolation. We didn't know how to socialize him properly until it was too late.

Sadizi: By the time we realized Vlast needed to bond with mortal races as Glint had, he no longer could...nor cared to.

Upon interacting with the fifth pedestal:

Vlast: Sadizi and the others tell me I must wait, that before the real work begins, the whole legacy must ripen and mature.

Vlast: I am ready now. Kralkatorrik continues to grow in power, and my mother's death stands unavenged.

Vlast: But I am my mother's son. I will wait. I will serve the glorious purpose she and the Forgotten set for me.

Vlast: Though the snakes and their golden servants speak as though it is their purpose, and Glint merely lent it her name.

Vlast: So in her name, I will act. Until the full legacy is ready, I will contain Kralkatorrik and cull its Branded horde.

Upon reaching the sealed door:

Forged Sentry: Intruder!

After defeating the Forged Sentry:

Sadizi: Curious. The door isn't responding. It must have been damaged during Joko and Balthazar's attack.

Taimi: You're in luck, because the commander is good at smashing things.

Upon finding the Strange Burning Scroll

<Character name>: What's this?

Order 134:

Disable gate leading to the final pedestal

Destroy any living creatures that attempt access

Put it down.

Upon destroying the chamber door:

Sadizi: Please step inside.

Cinematic upon activating the final pedestal:

Sadizi: The millennia-long Elder Dragon cycle is one of feast and famine. Ravenous, they rise. Sated, they sleep.

Sadizi: Glint and the Forgotten set out to break this cycle of extremes and to restore true balance.

Sadizi: But when two Elder Dragons were unexpectedly eliminated from the cycle at one time, we believe it created a void.

Sadizi: A void that caused the system to break down and the collapse to begin.

Sadizi: The hope was that Glint's legacy would stabilize the cycle.

Sadizi: We theorize these vacancies must be filled with entities that circulate and share magic rather than hoard it.

Sadizi: Only then will the balance of magic truly become stable. Only then will Glint's legacy achieve its ultimate purpose.

After the cinematic:

Taimi: The scions of Glint are more important than we thought...

Taimi: Balthazar only sees them as a means to gaining power, but they could be instrumental in restoring the natural balance.

Sadizi: If you are, in fact, the true protector of Glint's legacy, then it's up to you to stop Balthazar from taking her.

Sadizi: But know that he will let nothing deter him from his goal of killing the Crystal Dragon.

<Character name>: Taimi, get a message to Rytlock, Canach, and Kasmeer.

<Character name>: There's a spire south of the skimmer camp, tall enough for Kiel's airship to moor. Tell them to meet me there.

Sadizi: Commander, you must leave. Now.

Sadizi: I can feel the Forged approaching. If you were able to find Kesho, then I failed to adequately conceal the entrance.

Sadizi: I must close the entrance forever. The portal will allow you to return safely to the surface.

<Character name>: But what about you?

Sadizi: I will keep my pledge to protect this sacred place with my life. I am at peace. Farewell, Commander.

My story

“ After a lot of legwork, I found a promising lead on the answers Kormir told us were out there: Kesho, a city built by the Forgotten, who themselves had connections to both Glint and the gods. As such, Kesho may well contain the knowledge we need to make a stand against Balthazar. It was swallowed by the desert sands long ago, so Kesho is considered a lost city by the locals, little more than a legend; but I was able to nail down its location in the Elon Riverlands. I'll need to ride a skimmer mount to reach Kesho safely, but at least now I have a concrete destination to explore. I entered the lost city of Kesho, and with Taimi's remote input, I learned all I could. We encountered a traumatized Exalted named Sadizi, as well as a host of dangerous Forged-Exalted hybrids. Sadizi told us these hybrids were created by Balthazar and Palawa Joko, the desert region's missing tyrant king. Together, the two villains stole the Forgotten ritual that makes Exalted and used it as a means of forcing spirits into armored bodies to create Balthazar's Forged. We also learned more about the true purpose of Glint's legacy: to preserve Tyria's magical balance by replacing Elder Dragons with equally powerful but less predatory entities. And we discovered why Balthazar was hunting Vlast: Kralkatorrik's blood, both literal and metaphorical, is its unique weakness, meaning Vlast, Glint, and the dragonsblood spear were all viable weapons against Kralkatorrik...and so is Aurene. It's only a matter of time before Balthazar returns to Tarir to capture her, so I sent word to my guildmates and told them to meet up with me so we can return to Maguuma and protect the Crystal Dragon's last scion. — My story

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Path of Fire storyline

Act 1	Sparking the Flame (Prologue) → Sparking the Flame → Blazing a Trail → Night of Fires → The Sacrifice
Act 2	Crystalline Memories → Hallowed Ground → Facing the Truth → The Way Forward
Act 3	The Departing → Bringing Out the Archon → Enemy of My Enemy → Beast of War → To Kill a God → Small Victory (Epilogue)
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