Descent to the Foundation
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Descent to the Foundation
- Quest giver
- Shale
- Location
- The Backroom (X:6.0, Y:6.3)
- Quest line
Post-Dawntrail Main Scenario Quests
┗ The New Dawn Quests- Level
- 100
- Gil
6,000- Previous quest
The Meeting- Next quest
- Shared Paths
- Patch
- 7.2
- Links
- EDB GT TC
Main Scenario Progress: 966 / 992 (97.4%)
Dawntrail Progress: 113 / 139 (81.3%)
Shale is eager to get on with it.
— In-game description
Rewards
- Unlocks
Steps
- Speak with Shale in the government sector.
- Enter The Underkeep.
- Confront Zelenia in Recollection.
- Speak with Sphene.
Journal
- Shale is eager to get on with it.
- Shale informs you that she has secured passage to the foundation sector, and that she will accompany you to gather data on the uncharted area. You and your companions head to the government sector, where the lift to Everkeep's depths is located.
- Your party assembles at the lift, and before you board Shale hands you a communicator. The adapter will use the coordinate data it provides to guide you as you delve into Everkeep's depths, where the old castle is said to be preserved.
- ※To enlist your companion NPCs for this duty, speak with them near the entrance or access Duty Support via the main menu. Use the Duty Finder if you wish to complete the instance alongside fellow players.
- After disembarking the lift and pushing through a sandy area crawling with beasts, the former castle of Alexandria comes into sight. You and your allies approach its timeworn doors, only to be assaulted by mechanized guardians, and during the melee you hear the voice of Calyx beckoning you deeper into the castle, where he intends to further test your combat capabilities. Cutting through more foes, you reach a chamber occupied by an ancient but hostile machine, and after a fierce battle you stand victorious. Shale and Sphene catch up, and together you prepare to search the fortress in earnest.
- ※In the event that you leave the area, you may return by talking to the lift attendant in the government sector.
- During your exploration of the castle, Sphene reminisces about her time spent there in centuries past─a heartfelt moment interrupted when you both are suddenly transported to a decrepit room. The moldering surroundings are soon replaced by virtual overlays recreating the throne of Alexandria in its former glory. At the center of the chamber are Calyx and the simulant, the former stating that he has one last trial with which to test your mettle, before a hulking mass of metal descends onto the arena. The simulant addresses it as Zelenia, who was second-in-command of Alexandria's royal knights. Overcome with rage at this affront, Sphene begs your aid in destroying the ignoble machine, even though it means you will be playing right into Calyx's hands.
- ※Recollection can be accessed via the Duty Finder.
- The imitation of Alexandria's finest proves to be a formidable opponent, but yet again you manage to pull through. Calyx seems unperturbed by the destruction of his creation, and appraises you with a look that suggests he possesses knowledge you do not.
- ※In the event that you leave the area, you may return by speaking with the lift attendant in the government sector.
- Calyx reveals that he covets the key that he might use it to harvest aether from reflections to sustain a growing population of Endless, and in so doing facilitate the evolution of mankind. He then states he will bestow upon you a “gift” before ending the transmission and stripping the room of its illusory grandeur, leaving you and Sphene standing before a dilapidated throne, upon which a tiara rests.
- Although Sphene is torn by the reminder of Zelenia's loss, she is grateful for you striking down the creation that disgraced her memory. As you look around the chamber, it remains unclear just how far into the castle's depths you have been thrust...
Dialogue
Optional dialogue
At last we have a plan. Let's make it count!
According to the records from Yuweyawata, my mother was investigating Origenics for her own research into souls.
There was map data for Origenics in the records, and that's how we learned about the castle in the foundation sector.
The castle was once my home. I shall do my utmost to be of use on this mission.
Calyx determines how many will become Endless, but leaves the choice of who in the hands of the people...
Is this his idea of fairness, or does he simply not care? Perhaps he considers all to be worthy of salvation...? Oh, but it's too early for such speculation...
In the world of Sphene's memories, the town was already submerged. Given their dire circumstances, I expect the people considered stripping the castle for materials to rebuild.
For the structure to endure even now... It speaks to its importance to the Alexandrians, as well as their resilience.
Accepting the quest
Right. I believe I've plotted a viable route to the foundation sector.
As we don't have much information on the area, I'll come along and gather geographic data on-site. You can leave the navigating to me.
I'll stay behind this time, but let me know if there's anything I can do to help!
Oblivion is fortunate to have a capable adapter like you, Gulool Ja. And no matter what the future holds, your knowledge of electrope is bound to serve you well.
With such dependable support here, we may embark on our mission. Come, let's head to the lift in the government sector.
Optional dialogue
Be safe out there!
Speak with Shale in the government sector.
Optional dialogue
Though it was but from a distance, I remember the sight of Alexandria's castle in the virtual domain. I wonder how it looks now compared to then...
From here, we head to the very bottom of Everkeep. I can't help but feel nervous, returning there after so long...
Calyx has all but invited us, so we must assume that we are expected...
Oblivion's gotten us permission to use the lift. It's nice when things can move quickly.
Everything has been arranged for your passage to the foundation sector!
Start of cutscene.There's no direct lift to the foundation sector, so we'll have to transfer to another on the way.
If we take the wrong lift, we'll end up in the wrong sector, so be sure to follow her instructions.
According to Teeshal Ja's records, the tower is divided into inner and outer sections below Origenics. The castle is at the heart of the inner section.
So upon arriving at the foundation sector, we need to make our way inwards.
Forename, take this communicator with you.
It's been modified to track your coordinates, so I'll be guiding you as I collect data.
Sounds like we're all set. Let's get going!
The Underkeep now accessible
End of cutscene.
Optional dialogue
It would be nice if this foray was uneventful, but that would be a naive hope. Better to expect the worst.
I shall follow close behind with Shale.
Though we are taking a risk, the far greater danger would be to wait. This time, let us take the battle to Calyx.
Calyx uses the people's love for Sphene to further his own schemes. We can't allow him to do so any longer. Whatever it takes, we'll find and stop him!
We're heading into a trap, so watch your step.
I'll be your guide for the descent to the foundation sector, after which Shale will take over. Please take care not to lose the communicator!
Enter the Underkeep.
Dungeon dialogue
Foundation Sector (area 1)
There are beasts ahead of you. They must have gotten in and made themselves at home.
There should be an access hatch nearby that leads inside. Look for an opening.
Sediment Funnel (boss 1)
I'm detecting something big... You'll have to deal with it to continue on.
After the fight
Good work. Now, proceed to the access hatch and head inside.
Royal Radius (area 2)
Everkeep's construction was apparently a constant battle against the rising water level.
Even during the war, the people labored to maintain the castle. It meant a lot to them.
It's upsetting to think that Preservation's terminal is in this place...
Hold on... Someone's jam...mmunications! Stay alert!
Receiving Room (boss 2)
So you have come. Let us measure your strength.
I am the soldier S0, of Alexandria's castle-guard. By order of the royal knights, I shall dispatch all intruders.
Releasing limiters... Initiating mobile combat maneuvers.
Calling reinforcements. Together we shall triumph.
After the fight
Combat functions...inoperable... Forgive my failure...
That was hardly a challenge, I see.
You will show me more. I bid you press on.
Grand Hall (area 3)
You are untroubled thus far, but I have something that may test you yet.
Chamber of Patience (boss 3)
Start of voiced cutscene.We still lack sufficient data. Very well. Let us see how you perform against this.
End of cutscene.
This machine has long guarded these crumbling halls.
How will you handle this?
Let us introduce more weaponry.
The turrets activate...
Let us see what this yields.
Perhaps a new approach to assess your adaptability.
Still alive. How unfortunate.
Were you to die here, it would save me trouble later.
I'm beginning to understand how you were able to defeat Queen Eternal.
Start of voiced cutscene.That will do. We have enough to proceed with an analysis.
End of cutscene.
Optional post-dungeon pop-ups
Optional dialogue
Shale and Sphene shouldn't be far behind.
And so the trap was sprung, as expected.
Where are you hiding, Calyx!?
Duty Support dialogue
Optional dialogue
Foundation Sector (area 1)
It seems we must clear a path through these creatures.
Indeed. Let us proceed with caution.
Let us press on.
Now to put my time training on the beach to good use!
The sand has built up over the long years...
Sediment Funnel (boss 1)
Whoa! That's a big bug!
Has it been using this chamber as its lair...?
Huh? Where's it going?
Is it moving along the pipes?
I don't think it's trying to flee...
where did it hide!?
On your guard, everyone!
It means to catch us by surprise!
Here it comes again!
What a tiresome foe...
This time... From over there!
After the fight
Hmph. What a vexing creature that was.
To think it was clever enough to use the pipes and sand to its advantage...
Royal Radius (area 2)
Wait, is that...the castle!?
Look. Could that be...?
...It's the castle!?
Was Shale's transmission cut off!?
We knew it wouldn't be easy. Let's stay strong and keep going!
Receiving Room (boss 2)
That voice... Calyx!?
Is he testing us against that mechanical soldier?
What!? Copies!?
It moves so quickly...
What are we up against now?
We won't be tricked again!
Remain calm—we can evade its attacks!
Focus and follow the movements!
Even more of them!?
Ungh... My head is spinning.
No doubt it will fight to the last...
After the fight
It was following orders... Does an even fiercer machine await us?
Fine by me. If he wants a show, let's give him one!
Grand Hall (area 3)
Gah! They came out of nowhere!
What a fright!
Is it guarding the door?
All the more reason to see just what lies beyond.
I don't believe it intends to let us pass...
Chamber of Patience (boss 3)
What is that? A floating rock?
Something's carved into it... Alexandria's emblem, perhaps?
Stay alert!
Those things started moving!
It comes again!
Is anywhere safe!?
Something's different...
Is the lightning intensifying?
Steel your nerves and make ready to dodge!
The red light changed positions!
Those move too!? No fair!
Post-dungeon cutscene
Start of voiced cutscene.Calyx was measuring our strength. Is that why he contrived to lead us here?
It looks like we've cleared away the machines and beasts, but who knows what else he might have in store...
From here on out, Sphene and Shale will move with us. Let's find that terminal, but stay alert for more threats.
The party proceeds to the castle hallways.
Before my illness left me bedridden, I used to walk through here on my way to watch Otis and Zelenia train.
You knew Otis, if I am not mistaken? Zelenia was his second-in-command in the royal knights of Alexandria.
Oh, how I loved to see the two of them spar. I once dreamed of fighting by their side, so I studied the magical arts under my tutor.
But when I was fifteen, the Storm Surge broke out, and both my father and mother passed away.
As the new queen, I was forbidden from taking to the battlefield, for our nation would fracture had I died without a successor.
Though in the end I could barely move, I regret that I didn't go out there and fight. At least while I still could.
My Endless self lamented not being able to protect the realm with benevolence. 'Tis a feeling to which I can relate...
Sphene...
Ah, forgive me! 'Twas not my intent to darken the mood. Come, let us press on.
This is one big castle, though... How far does this hallway go?
Do you know, Sphene?
What...?
The player and Sphene are suddenly teleported to the abandoned throne room.
What...what happened!?
The devices around the room activate, restoring it to its non-abandoned state. Calyx and the simulant teleport in.
Oh? It seems our guest brought company.
So this was your doing.
It was. We installed a teleporter that is triggered by the presence of the key, you see.
The player attempts to use their linkpearl.
Ah, I'm afraid aetheric transmissions cannot penetrate the walls of the throne room. It will take your friends a good while to find you.
I confess, the Valia Pira did not suffice to assess your capabilities.
So I shall try something else.
Calyx summons a mechanical knight.
You are free to use anything at your disposal. The better you fight, the more accurate my data.
Attaining a precise measure of your strength─that is the most expeditious way...
...To reclaim the key to which you so stubbornly cling.
Ah, noble Zelenia, dashing as ever. These villains mean to do us harm. Strike them down, I bid you!
What? This machine is Zelenia!?
Indeed it is. We couldn't preserve her memories while she lived, so she has been reconstructed from our recollections of her.
The Endless me being created in answer to the earnest desires of Alexandrians... That, I can accept.
But to twist the memories of those I held dear and treat them as playthings...
...This disgrace I cannot abide!
Sphene addresses the player.
Loath though I am to comply with their demands, this monstrosity must be destroyed. Not least of all for Zelenia's honor.
If she was indeed created from my memories, even if I cannot fight, I may be able to offer you counsel.
As Sphene talks, the player briefly sees a vision of Endless Sphene in her place.
So please, lend me your strength and end this farce!
The player takes out Azem's crystal and begins a summoning for seven other party members. Calyx takes note.
Ah, there it is...
Recollection now accessible
End of cutscene.
Confront Zelenia in Recollection.
Trial dialogue
Start of voiced cutscene.I am Zelenia Triantafylli.
Royal knight of Alexandria, and sworn blade of Her Majesty, the Queen.
End of cutscene.
Upon my blade I swear, no harm shall come to Her Highness!
You will not defile Zelenia's memory any longer!
Feel the sting of my divine blade!
The lightning energy begins to surge...
I know this technique... You must keep moving!
Have at you!
Fall!
That her bladework should be recreated so faithfully...
I will suffer none to threaten Alexandria!
Heavens roar!
Have care! Zelenia was capable of much, much more!
I will show you the soul of a royal knight!
No more games!
Quickly, away from the sigils!
The sigils channel magic! Be on your guard!
You've no time even to fear my wrath!
You must brace for blade and magic both!
Taste my steel!
There is no escape!
Surge!
I know this is merely a reconstruction...and yet...
I have pledged my life to the kingdom!
My resolve shall never waver!
I am sworn to protect my queen! I will die before I yield!
That's right... Zelenia was always there to protect me...
Rage and roil!
Start of voiced cutscene.A disgraceful display... Forgive me, my queen... I have failed you...
End of cutscene.
Optional post-trial pop-up
Optional dialogue
Thank you for keeping me from harm.
Post-trial cutscene
Start of voiced cutscene.Calyx and the simulant re-appear. The simulant is sitting on the throne. Calyx is spinning a pen.
Did you get what you needed?
I did. Though these figures will complicate matters.
Is that so? Well, if we are done here, then I shall end the transmission.
Hold it!
If you have no scruples about thus defiling the memories of Zelenia...then there is no way we will ever see eye to eye.
You are not fit to be entrusted with the cherished memories of Alexandrians!
I, for one, have no wish to employ the fruits of my research in this manner. It is a waste of time and effort.
But since I relinquished my flesh long ago, I must resort to every conceivable method, so long as the hero insists on keeping the key.
Why do you so oppose our objective?
With the key, we would be able to harvest aether from other reflections and bring forth more Endless.
We could give this chance to evolve not only to the people of the Ninth, but to those of the Source as well. I see no reason why you should reject such a boon.
What will you say?
We won't let you lay a finger on the reflections!
How miserly you are! But unless you're willing to compromise, you won't be able to save anyone or anything.
You're aware of the connection between the worlds?
Oh, don't tell me you thought you were the only ones who knew? That is the height of hubris!
Well, I'd say our conversation has run its course.
Ultimately, what you think is immaterial, for the seeds we've sown have already quickened.
The people have glimpsed hope in transcending death, and they can ill turn away from it.
And thus does my role come to an end. The rest, I leave in your capable hands, Calyx.
As a token of gratitude for consenting to my tests, I leave you with a gift. Be sure to take it with you.
Calyx inputs a command on his tablet, and he and the simulant disappear. The room returns to its abandoned state. The simulant's tiara is left behind on the throne.
End of cutscene.
Speak with Sphene.
Optional dialogue
Back at Solution Nine by the elevator
Heading below? I'd be glad to show you the way!
Proceed to the throne room? (Yes/No)
Zelenia was kind, but she could be stern. A pillar of strength when I ascended the throne in troubled times.
Not only did she protect me, she also buoyed my spirit whenever it threatened to buckle under the pressures of my station...
By preserving her memory and honor, you've done more for me than you could know. Thank you, Forename.
You may now enter the Underkeep with a party of NPC avatars. To make use of this feature, open the Trust interface located under Duty in the main menu.