Final Fantasy XIV Online Wiki - User contributions [en]

The Ultimate Ballad

2026-09-30T03:20:15Z

WaiseHell: Dialogue formatting and added extra lines

{{Quest infobox
| title = The Ultimate Ballad
| description = [[Alys]] would like to introduce you to [[Wandering Minstrel|someone]].
| image = The Ultimate Ballad.png
| quest-giver = Alys
| related-npcs = Wandering Minstrel
| location = Mor Dhona
| location-x = 21.7
| location-y = 8.6
| type = feature
| quest-line = Wandering Minstrel
| journal-section = Sidequests
| journal-category = Mor Dhonan Sidequests
| journal-genre =
| sortkey = 501
| organization =
| class =
| job =
| level = 50
| req-quest = The Ultimate Weapon
| req-items =
| requirements =
| exp = 0
| gil = 939
| mettle =
| reward(1-10) =
| overridereward(1-10) =
| reward-opt(1-8) =
| overridereward-opt(1-8) =
| unlocks = tr The Minstrel's Ballad: Ultima's Bane
| prev-quest =
| next-quest = Sing Me Another Song
| patch = 2.1
| release =
| id-gt = 66844
| id-edb = 8677ef88c2a
}}
==Walkthrough==
The North American and European datacenters primarily use [[Party Finder]] to challenge (Extreme) content. Using Duty Finder to match with random players is not recommended and will be more difficult than pre-forming a party. Note that despite the quest text, players only need to complete the trial using any means, not necessarily with Duty Finder matchmaking, to complete the quest. For an easy completion, it is recommended that players use Party Finder and form an [[Unrestricted Party]] (i.e., with level sync disabled). Players who wish to complete this duty with level sync enabled should also form a pre-made party, which also enables the use of Minimum Item Level and Silence Echo settings for an additional challenge.

===Historical===
When first added, {{i|The Minstrel's Ballad: Ultima's Bane}} had no story-mode [[trial]] equivalent, and was unique among (Extreme) trials for this until {{i|Memoria Misera (Extreme)}}. With {{i|The Porta Decumana}} added in [[Patch 6.1]], it is now one of the only Extreme trials who's story-mode is 4-player content, a trait only shared with the crossover content [[The Hunt For Rathalos]].

==Steps==
*Speak with the [[Wandering Minstrel|wandering minstrel]].
*Confront [[the Ultima Weapon]] in [[the Minstrel's Ballad: Ultima's Bane]].
*Speak with the wandering minstrel.

==Journal==
* Alys would like to introduce you to someone.

* A wandering minstrel has come to Revenant's Toll in search of inspiration─namely, tales of heroic feats and derring-do. Alys can think of no one better qualified to quench the traveler's thirst for tales, and urges you regale the minstrel with your greatest exploits.

* Your words serve to satisfy the minstrel beyond measure, who at once composes a ballad of your battle with the Ultima Weapon. Alas, his penchant for exaggeration has transformed the trial into something quite unlike what you remember...
** ※The Minstrel's Ballad: Ultima's Bane can be accessed via the Duty Finder.

* Using the power of your imagination, you relive the events of that fateful day in the Praetorium, as described in the minstrel's ballad. Considering how certain details differ drastically, it may behoove you to correct the minstrel's misconceptions.

* The minstrel makes no apologies for embellishing your tale, claiming that others would have done the same in time. A valid point, to be sure, though his artistic license will only serve to hasten the process...

==Related NPCs==
{{Related NPCs}}

==Dialogue==
{{Dialogue|<nowiki>

>If the player speaks to the Wandering Minstrel before initiating the quest.
-cutscene start
Wandering Minstrel: ''Dawn may banish even the darkest night, Yet ever shall primal desires burn.''
Wandering Minstrel: ''Two swords shall vie to lay them low— A blade born of light and a blade forged of might. Alas, man may entrust his fate unto but one.''
Wandering Minstrel: Truly, Archon Louisoix had a gift with words. Had circumstances been different, he would have made a magnificent minstrel...
-cutscene end
---

Alys: Your reputation precedes you, [Forename]. In fact, it's for that reason that I'd like to introduce you to someone.
Alys: That minstrel at the end of the bar wandered in here the other day—said he was seeking ''inspiration'' for a new ballad, the sort only an adventurer of distinction could provide.
Alys: Who better than the {{alternatives|woman|man}} who saved the world to give this minstrel the stories he seeks, eh? Humor the gentleman, I say!

-quest accepted

-cutscene start
Wandering Minstrel: ''Dawn may banish even the darkest night, Yet ever shall primal desires burn.''
Wandering Minstrel: ''Two swords shall vie to lay them low— A blade born of light and a blade forged of might. Alas, man may entrust his fate unto but one.''
Wandering Minstrel: Lest you wonder, these are the words of Archon Louisoix. While not written as poetry, I find poetry within them nonetheless.

>If the WoL bears the Mark of the Twelve tattoo<ref>https://ffxiv.consolegameswiki.com/wiki/Legacy_Campaign</ref>
Wandering Minstrel: By the gods—[Forename], it ''is'' you! We do indeed share a connection, don't we? Looking at you now, I am reminded of Mezaya's final verse:
Wandering Minstrel: ''Seven waning moons see seven suns rise, Divine order roils, fallen corpses writhe.''
Wandering Minstrel: ''Souls from aether far, strangers from strange lands, Yester with thine eyes, morrow by thine hands.''
Wandering Minstrel: A toast to your triumphant return, familiar stranger.
Wandering Minstrel: It is a pleasure to be reunited with you once more. Yours is a tale that was destined to be immortalized in song.
Wandering Minstrel: After all, was it not you who faced Gaius van Baelsar and his Allagan weapon? You must tell me everything—''everything''—that happened! Omit nary a single detail, I beg of you!
''The WoL tells the Wandering Minstrel what happened.''
---

Wandering Minstrel: Years ago, when I arrived in this land, I was beset with peril day and night—forced to endure countless trials which tested my mind, my body, and my faith.
Wandering Minstrel: And I am not ashamed to admit that I would have faltered, had it not been for the help of a handful of nameless adventurers. Honest men and women who proffered the hand of friendship to a weary soul and led him safe from the darkness.
Wandering Minstrel: When I look upon you, I am reminded of them. I can tell that you are well traveled, and possessed of both constancy and character. You are a {{alternatives|woman|man}} of the adventuring profession, yes?
Wandering Minstrel: I seek a valiant hero whose deeds might serve as inspiration, and I have reason to believe I have found {{alternatives|her|him}}.
Wandering Minstrel: After all, was it not you who faced Gaius van Baelsar and his Allagan weapon? You must tell me everything—''everything''—that happened! Omit nary a single detail, I beg of you!
''The WoL tells the Wandering Minstrel what happened.''
Wandering Minstrel: ...Truly a tale worthy of legend! And so eerily it matches the writings of Archon Louisoix!
Wandering Minstrel: ''Two swords shall vie to lay them low— A blade born of light and a blade forged of might. Alas, man may entrust his fate unto but one.''
Wandering Minstrel: The Black Wolf was a conqueror who aspired to rule through might, and the weapon was key to his ambitions.
Wandering Minstrel: Yet in the end, the people of Eorzea entrusted their fates to a brilliant blade—the Warrior of Light.
Wandering Minstrel: A rather fitting moniker, in my humble opinion.
Wandering Minstrel: Thank you. At last, I have found the inspiration I sought: a battle to decide the fate of a realm!
Wandering Minstrel: The words, the notes—I feel them coming together! Your tale, [Forename] [Surname]—your ''song''!
Wandering Minstrel: From an era long forgotten,♪ A blade of midnight drawn,♪ {{alternatives|1 = From a distant land uncharted,♪|condition1 = Default|2 = From a battlefield awakened,♪|condition2 = Bearing legacy mark}} A warrior who bears the dawn...♪

-cutscene end

-optional start
-cutscene start
Wandering Minstrel: You desire an encore? Very well, it would be my pleasure.
Wandering Minstrel: [Forename] [Surname], I give you ''Ultima's Bane''!
Wandering Minstrel: From an era long forgotten,♪ A blade of midnight drawn,♪ {{alternatives|1 = From a distant land uncharted,♪|condition1 = Default|2 = From a battlefield awakened,♪|condition2 = Bearing legacy mark}} A warrior who bears the dawn...♪
-cutscene end
-optional end
:===After confronting the Ultima Weapon in The Minstrel's Ballad: Ultima's Bane.===
-cutscene start
Wandering Minstrel: That might be my best work yet! Was it not just as you remember, [Forename]?
Wandering Minstrel: ...Come now, what's the harm in a little exaggeration? I only changed a few details for dramatic effect.
Wandering Minstrel: And even if I had not, others would have done so eventually. 'Tis the nature of every story to grow with each telling.
-cutscene end
-quest complete
</nowiki>}}
==Video Archive==
{{quest video archive|id=k92PhfncoKM}}

[[Category:Has_datamined_dialogue]]
[[Category:Wandering Minstrel Quests]]

Edelstein

2026-09-28T14:35:37Z

WaiseHell: Added images

{{NPC infobox
| name = Edelstein
| description =
| image = Edelstein_new.jpg
| location = Northern Thanalan
| coordinates = 20,22
| dungeon =
| raid =
| trial =
| title =
| gender = Male
| age =
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| class =
| job =
| profession =
| birthplace =
| organization = Ul'dah
| relatives =
| level =
| aggression =
| service = quest
| goal =
| patch = 2.0
}}
__NOTOC__
{{quests started}}
{{quests involved}}

==Gallery==
<gallery mode=packed heights=200px>
Edelstein.png
</gallery>

[[Category:NPCs]] [[Category:Patch 2.0 NPCs]]

File:Edelstein new.jpg

2026-09-28T14:34:00Z

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== Licensing ==
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2026-09-28T08:46:06Z

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2026-09-28T08:45:30Z

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2026-09-28T08:45:04Z

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2026-09-28T08:25:51Z

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2026-09-27T13:08:16Z

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2026-09-27T12:53:36Z

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== Licensing ==
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Doman Watch

2026-09-27T12:53:24Z

WaiseHell: Gallery section and full body

{{NPC infobox
| name = Doman Watch
| description =
| image =
| location = Mor Dhona
| coordinates = 22.8,6.2
| title =
| gender = Male
| age =
| race = Hyur
| clan = Midlander
| class =
| job =
| profession =
| birthplace =
| organization =
| level =
| aggression =
| service = quest
| goal =
| patch = 2.2
}}
{{quests started}}
{{quests involved}}
==Gallery==
<gallery mode=packed heights=200px>
Doman_Watch_full.jpg
</gallery>

[[Category:NPCs]] [[Category:Quest NPCs]] [[Category:Patch 2.2 NPCs]]

File:Doman Watch.jpg

2026-09-27T12:51:28Z

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== Licensing ==
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File:Hired Thug.jpg

2026-09-27T11:15:41Z

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File:Floating Stone.jpg

2026-09-27T11:11:38Z

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File:Logedanrel.jpg

2026-09-27T09:50:16Z

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File:Gateguard.jpg

2026-09-27T09:19:39Z

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File:Edmelle full.jpg

2026-09-27T02:06:25Z

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== Licensing ==
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Edmelle

2026-09-27T02:06:07Z

WaiseHell: Added gallery and full body image

{{NPC infobox
| name = Edmelle
| description =
| image =
| location = Coerthas Central Highlands
| coordinates = 25,29
| dungeon =
| raid =
| trial =
| title =
| gender = Female
| age =
| race = Elezen
| clan = Wildwood
| class =
| job =
| profession = Astrologer
| birthplace =
| organization = Ishgard
| relatives =
| level =
| aggression =
| service = quest
| goal =
| patch = 2.0
| release =
}}
__NOTOC__
{{quests started}}

==Quests Involved In==
{{quest list header}}
{{quest list row|The Unending War}}
{{quest list row|Sharlayan Ascending}}
{{table footer}}

==Gallery==
<gallery mode=packed heights=200px>
Edmelle_full.jpg
</gallery>

[[Category:NPCs]] [[Category:Patch 2.0 NPCs]]

File:Edmelle.jpg

2026-09-27T02:04:05Z

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== Licensing ==
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File:Portelaine.jpg

2026-09-27T01:45:07Z

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File:Duvicauroix.jpg

2026-09-27T01:29:43Z

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File:Prairillot.jpg

2026-09-27T01:20:38Z

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File:Stephannot.jpg

2026-09-27T01:16:26Z

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File:Sylvaintel.jpg

2026-09-27T01:13:09Z

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File:Roiteloin.jpg

2026-09-27T01:03:14Z

WaiseHell: WaiseHell uploaded a new version of File:Roiteloin.jpg

File uploaded with MsUpload

File:Wiscard.png

2026-09-27T00:32:37Z

WaiseHell: WaiseHell uploaded a new version of File:Wiscard.png

== Summary ==
Quest NPC
== Licensing ==
{{Square Enix image|screenshot}}

File:Tataroga Mor Dhona.PNG

2026-09-27T00:11:21Z

WaiseHell: WaiseHell uploaded a new version of File:Tataroga Mor Dhona.PNG

File uploaded with MsUpload

File:Kakamehi.jpg

2026-09-26T23:59:30Z

WaiseHell:

== Licensing ==
{{Square Enix image|screenshot}}

3rd Unit Brave

2026-09-26T21:24:44Z

WaiseHell: Added the second image of the NPC with the same title from the MSQ. Not sure what better adjustments could be made of the page considering they're both named the same but are different races. Just adding the image for now though.

{{NPC infobox
| name = 3rd Unit Brave
| description =
| image =
| location = Coerthas Central Highlands
| coordinates = 12,19
| dungeon =
| raid =
| trial =
| title =
| gender = Male
| age =
| race = Roegadyn
| clan = Hellsguard
| class =
| job =
| profession =
| birthplace =
| organization = Crystal Braves
| relatives =
| level =
| aggression =
| service = quest
| goal =
| patch = 2.4
| release =
}} __NOTOC__
==Quests Started==
{{quest list header|questline=y}}
{{table footer}}

==Quests Involved In==
{{quest list header|questline=y}}
{{quest list row|For the Greater Good}}
{{table footer}}

==Locations==
{{NPC location table header}}
{{NPC location info|Coerthas Central Highlands| 12,19 |-}}
{{NPC location info|Coerthas Central Highlands| 15,29 |-}}
|}

==Additional Information==
<gallery mode=packed heights=200px>
3rd_Unit_Brave_hyur.jpg
</gallery>

[[Category:NPCs]] [[Category:Patch 2.4 NPCs]]

File:3rd Unit Brave hyur.jpg

2026-09-26T21:16:40Z

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== Licensing ==
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File:3rd Unit Brave.jpg

2026-09-26T21:14:00Z

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File:Maroile.jpg

2026-09-26T17:19:16Z

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2026-09-26T17:15:32Z

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File:Clementain.jpg

2026-09-26T16:33:39Z

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File:Barnabontant.jpg

2026-09-26T16:30:22Z

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File:Franchemontiaux.jpg

2026-09-26T15:36:55Z

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File:Roustebant.jpg

2026-09-26T15:31:36Z

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== Licensing ==
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File:Marcquelort.jpg

2026-09-26T15:25:43Z

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File:Hadrefort.jpg

2026-09-26T15:21:52Z

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== Licensing ==
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Enguerran

2026-09-26T15:12:42Z

WaiseHell: description

{{NPC infobox
| name = Enguerran
| description = <sigh> Why is my finishing touch always but a fingernail's breadth away from perfection? I fear my mentor has lost all patience with me. At this rate, I shall never join the ranks of the Fen–Yll artisans.
| image =
| location = Old Gridania
| coordinates = 12.6,8.5
| title =
| gender = Male
| age =
| race = Elezen
| clan = Wildwood
| class =
| job =
| profession =
| birthplace =
| organization =
| relatives =
| level =
| service =
| goal =
| release = a realm reborn
| patch = 2.1
| voiceJP =
| voiceEN =
| voiceFR =
| voiceDE =
}}

[[Category:NPCs]] [[Category:Patch 2.1 NPCs]]

File:Enguerran.jpg

2026-09-26T14:55:31Z

WaiseHell:

== Licensing ==
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File:Gagalyo.jpg

2026-09-26T03:58:31Z

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File:Flamboyant Oaf.jpg

2026-09-26T03:02:05Z

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File:Resting Merchant.jpg

2026-09-26T02:56:19Z

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== Licensing ==
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File:Humphrey full.jpg

2026-09-25T04:46:58Z

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== Licensing ==
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Humphrey

2026-09-25T04:46:40Z

WaiseHell: /* Additional Information */ changed section to gallery and added full body image

{{NPC infobox
| name = Humphrey
| description =
| image =
| location = Central Thanalan
| coordinates = 15,22
| dungeon =
| raid =
| trial =
| title =
| gender = Male
| age =
| race = Hyur
| clan = Midlander
| class =
| job =
| profession =
| birthplace =
| organization = Ul'dah
| level =
| aggression =
| service = quest
| goal =
| release =
| patch = 2.1
}} __NOTOC__
==Quests Started==
{{quest list header}}
{{table footer}}

==Quests Involved In==
{{quest list header}}
{{quest list row|Her Last Vow}}
{{quest list row|The Immaculate Deception}}
{{quest list row|Shades of Sil'dih}}
{{quest list row|Sibling Strife}}
{{table footer}}

==Locations==
{{NPC location table header}}
{{NPC location info|Central Thanalan|15,22|-}}
{{NPC location info|Eastern Thanalan|10,17|-}}
{{NPC location info|Ul'dah - Steps of Thal|8,13|-}}
|}

==Gallery==
<gallery mode=packed heights=200px>
Humphrey_full.jpg
</gallery>

[[Category:NPCs]] [[Category:Quest NPCs]] [[Category:Patch 2.1 NPCs]]

File:Jojonpa.jpg

2026-09-25T04:10:17Z

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== Licensing ==
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File:Humphrey.jpg

2026-09-25T03:48:14Z

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File:Stalwart Temple Knight.jpg

2026-09-24T18:51:04Z

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File:Brangwine.png

2026-09-24T15:46:54Z

WaiseHell: WaiseHell uploaded a new version of File:Brangwine.png

Brangwine NPC

Waldew

2026-09-24T03:24:48Z

WaiseHell: description

{{NPC infobox
| name = Waldew
| description = Listen, adventurer, to the rustling leaves, the flowing rivers—to the very pulse of this land. We conjurers of Stillglade Fane interpret these whispers of the elementals and convey them to the people of Gridania.
| image =
| location = Old Gridania
| coordinates = 7.9, 10.8
| dungeon =
| raid =
| trial =
| title =
| gender = Male
| age =
| race = Hyur
| clan = Midlander
| class = Conjurer
| job =
| profession =
| birthplace =
| organization = Gridania
| relatives =
| level =
| aggression =
| service = quest
| goal =
| patch = 2.0
| release =
}} __NOTOC__
==Quests Started==
{{quest list header}}
{{table footer}}

==Quests Involved In==
{{quest list header}}
{{quest list row|Once Bitten, Twice Shy}}
{{table footer}}

==Additional Information==

[[Category:NPCs]] [[Category:Quest NPCs]] [[Category:Patch 2.0 NPCs]]