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To Catch a Spider

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To Catch a Spider

To Catch a Spider loading screen.png

Loading screen for Sayida's airship.

To Catch a Spider is the ninth chapter of the End of Dragons story.

Objectives[edit]

Devise your plan to locate Ankka.
  • Wait for your team to set up in Arborstone.
  • (Several Hours Later)
  • Enter the Command Quarters.
  • Check in with Marjory and Taimi
  • (Optional) Speak with Taimi
  • Look for Gorrik on the second level.
  • Talk to Gorrik.
  • (Optional) Find out what Ivan is doing in Arborstone.
  • Meet Rama and Ayumi.
Work with the Kestrels to get information on Ankka.
  • Enter the Echovald Wilds region of Echovald Forest.
  • Choose to speak to the Kestrel at the Speakers camp.
    • Renown Heart empty (map icon).png Sabotage the Speakers while looking for a lead on Ankka.
    • Read the mail from "A Friend".
    • Speak to the undercover Kestrel spy.
    • Eavesdrop on the Speaker guards.
    • Locate the Speaker ritualist's interrogation notes.
    • Return to the Kestrel outside the Speakers camp.
    • Listen to the comms call with the Kestrels.
  • Choose to speak to the Kestrel at the Jade Brotherhood camp.
    • Renown Heart empty (map icon).png Sabotage the Jade Brotherhood while looking for a lead to Ankka.
    • Read the mail from the Kestrel master spy.
    • Listen to the Jade Brotherhood Gossip.
    • Read the Jade Brotherhood security log.
    • Speak to the incarcerated Kestrel.
    • Return to the Kestrel outside the Jade Brotherhood Camp.
    • Listen to the comms call with the Kestrels.
  • Investigate the Aetherblade Camp
  • Listen to the "Ankka 1335-M77" audio log.
  • Listen to the "Ankka 1335-A32" audio log.
  • Discuss next steps with your team over comms.
  • Regroup with Rama at Mori Village.
Cut off Ankka's avenue of escape.
  • Locate the airship spotted near Melandru's Hope.
  • Enter the strange door to locate the source of the signal.
  • Explore the cavern.
  • Board the airship.
  • Speak to Canach and Sayida.
  • Leave the airship and check in with your team.
  • Make a plan with your allies.

Rewards[edit]

Walkthrough[edit]

Arborstone

Interact with the door to move into the Command Quarters, where Marjory and a Taimi hologram are chatting. Speak with them, then optionally speak with Taimi too.

Exit the Command Quarters back into Arborstone. Head right to the teleporter (marked with the green gear symbol) to reach the upper floor. Head towards the marker on the mini-map, and you will find Gorrik behind a pillar.

Descend to the ground floor after speaking with Gorrik, and approach the marker to trigger a dialogue with Rama and Ayumi.

The Echovald Wilds

At this point, if you follow the direction of the markers, you will find yourself completing the two heart missions, doing either Infiltrate and sabotage operations in the Jade Brotherhood headquarters or Disrupt the Speakers' operations in their headquarters will advanced the objectives list. You can however, choose to skip this and go direct to Aetherblade Hideout (see the maps on that page for assistance finding the camouflage entrance) - skipping the hearts will bypass any opportunity to do Brotherhood Saboteur and Speakers Saboteur.

When you enter the Aetherblade Hideout, you will find two listening devices to interact with. Once you've listened to both, your allies have a conversation over the radio system. You can optionally also interact with the Journal on the far left (on the raised platform) for the Evolution Within Decay achievement.

Travel to Mori Village to talk to your allies, and then head over to Melandru's Hope.

Follow the markers on the world map to Secret Cavern. Speak with Canach and Sayida on the airship, and then exit to make a plan with your allies.

Achievements[edit]

This achievement requires at least one completed objective to become visible. Stolen Thunder End of Dragons: Act 3 0Achievement points
Ayumi is impressed with your scouting abilities! Located the Aetherblade Encampment in Echovald before the Kestrel Scouts 0Achievement points
  • Instead of investigating the camps, go directly to Aetherblade Hideout and enter through the secret wall to trigger this achievement.
  • Can be done at the same time as Speakers Saboteur or Brotherhood Saboteur if you enter the Aetherblade Hideout after receiving, but before reading, the mail from the Kestrel Master Spy. Or if you enter before doing the step that follows reading the mail.
Brotherhood Saboteur End of Dragons: Act 3 1Achievement points
Sabotage the Jade Brotherhood to acquire intel on Ankka. Sabotaged the Jade Brotherhood to Acquire Intel on Ankka 1Achievement points

NOTE: Achievement is not obtainable if the heart quest was completed prior to visiting the camp during the story step, you will need to wait until it resets (after the next daily reset) to complete it.

  • Sabotage the Jade Brotherhood to acquire intel on Ankka.
  • Achievement qualification may be tracked via the Achievement effect.png Qualify for Brotherhood Saboteur effect. You can log back out and back in, and get re-disguised reset the tracking effect.
  • Complete the renown heart in Brotherhood Wildlands. Cannot be done at the same time as Speakers Saboteur.
Speakers Saboteur End of Dragons: Act 3 1Achievement points
Sabotage the Speakers to acquire intel on Ankka. Sabotaged the Speakers to Acquire Intel on Ankka 1Achievement points

NOTE: Achievement is not obtainable if the heart quest was completed prior to visiting the camp during the story step, you will need to wait until it resets (after the next daily reset) to complete it.

  • Sabotage the Speakers to acquire intel on Ankka.
  • Achievement qualification may be tracked via the Achievement effect.png Achievement Eligibility: Speakers Saboteur effect. You can log back out and back in, and get re-disguised reset the tracking effect.
  • Complete the renown heart in Warden's Folly. Cannot be done at the same time as Brotherhood Saboteur.
Silenced Voices End of Dragons: Act 3 1Achievement points
Complete Shisokana's special mission parameters inside the Speakers camp.They never heard you coming.
  • Speak to Shisokana to receive further instructions.
  • Go to the Jade Brotherhood camp.
  • Steal the tech from the Jade Brotherhood lieutenant's chest.
  • Return to the Speakers camp.
  • Gain access to the Speaker ritualist's tent.
  • Plant the stolen tech in the Speaker ritualist's tent.
...
  • Inform the Speakers lieutenant of the ritualist's "betrayal."
7 Completed Shisokana's Special Mission Parameters 1Achievement points
  • This achievement can only be started (first step only) during the To Catch a Spider story step (roughly when the heart is the objective of the story), as the associated NPC does not appear when the story is inactive.
  1. Speak to Shisokana at the camp. - Talk to Shisokana to begin this achievement chain. Shisokana is located near the Speaker Camp entrance.
  2. Go to the Jade Brotherhood camp. - Under disguise, simply enter into the Jade Brotherhood camp at Ingenuity Square in Brotherhood Woodlands.
  3. Steal the tech from the Jade Brotherhood lieutenant's chest. - Located on the ground floor. From the entrance, take a left down the corridor, and then enter the room on the right. The chest is in the corner, between some Polluted Goop and a Jade Brotherhood Guard. Note - you will need to stand infront of the chest for a few seconds before the interactive option appears. This actions applies 4 stacks of suspicion on each of 3 pulses.
  4. Return to the Speakers camp. - Under disguise, simply enter into the Speaker's Camp in Warden's Folly.
  5. Gain access to the Speaker ritualist's tent. - Head to the southernmost set of tents in the camp. An Elite Speaker Guard is standing in front of three tents. Approach the rightmost one, and this step will trigger.
  6. Plant the stolen tech in the Speaker ritualist's tent. - Interact with the same tent to drop off the evidence. Note: This actions applies 4 stacks of suspicion on each of 3 pulses.
  7. Inform the Speakers lieutenant of the ritualist's "betrayal". - Head to the other tents on the opposite side of the camp (Speaker's Sanctum POI) and talk to the lieutenant. This will complete the achievement.
Jade Shadow End of Dragons: Act 3 1Achievement points
Complete Kage's special mission parameters inside the Jade Brotherhood camp.The Kestrels might have to make room in their ranks.
  • Speak to Kage to receive further instructions.
  • Locate the Jade Brotherhood supply cache.
  • Examine the Jade Brotherhood supply cache.
  • Go to the Speakers camp.
  • Locate and steal a source of arcane fire from the Speakers.
  • Return to the supply cache in the Jade Brotherhood camp.
...
  • Destroy the supply cache using the arcane flame to implicate the Speakers.
7 Completed Kage's Special Mission Parameters 1Achievement points
  • This achievement can only be started (first step only) during the To Catch a Spider story step (roughly when the heart is the objective of the story), as the associated NPC does not appear when the story is inactive. Do note that there are two NPCs called "Kage" close to each other. The one who can start this achievement is located right besides Kestrel Michiko, on ground level.
  1. Speak to Kage to receive further instructions. - To begin this achievement chain, talk to Kage, who spawns directly left of the Heart NPC while this story step is active.
  2. Locate the Jade Brotherhood supply cache. - Located on the ground floor. From the entrance, go straight until you reach the news hologram platform and take a right towards the stair to the second floor, but then enter the room on the left. Run towards the end of the room, and the Brotherhood Supply Cache is under a box covered by camouflage netting. It is directly next to the napping Brotherhood Pistoleer.
  3. Examine the Jade Brotherhood supply cache. - You must interact with the supply cache to move to the next stage of the achievement.
  4. Go to the Speaker's camp. - Under disguise, simply enter into the Speakers Camp
  5. Locate and steal a source of arcane fire from the Speakers. - Head to the central pillar below the vista and surrounded by numerous Speaker Guards. There will be a floating clear torch which you can pick up. Note: This actions applies 4 stacks of suspicion on each of 3 pulses.
  6. Return to the supply cache in the Jade Brotherhood camp. - Under disguise, simply re-enter into the Jade Brotherhood camp at Ingenuity Square in Brotherhood Woodlands.
  7. Destroy the supply cache using the arcane flame to implicate the Speakers. - Return to the cache and light the cache on fire. This will complete the achievement.
Evolution within Decay End of Dragons: Act 3 1Achievement points
Find Ankka's old journal.We are all products of our environment. Found Ankka's Old Journal 1Achievement points
  • Read Ankka's journal at the Aetherblade Hideout. Upon entering, head up the ramp on the left side and run to the end. The journal is on the ground.
  • Can be done in open world.
Munitions Officer's Log End of Dragons: Act 3 1Achievement points
Find Renyak's "Notes"It seems like he understands the plan? Maybe? Found Renyak's "Notes" 1Achievement points
This achievement rewards items. To Catch a Spider End of Dragons: Act 3 End of Dragons mastery point 1Achievement points
Set up a base of operations and reconnoiter.Journal: To Catch a Spider Completed
Reward: Stash of Crimson Skull Coins.pngStash of Crimson Skull Coins
Completed To Catch a Spider 1Achievement points
  • Complete the story for the first time.

NPCs[edit]

Allies[edit]

Command Quarters[edit]

Asura
Humans

Open world: Arborstone[edit]

Asura
Humans
Dredge
Tengu

Open world: The Echovald Wilds[edit]

Asura
Dredge
Elder Dragons
Humans
Sylvari
Tengu
???[verification requested]

Secret Cavern[edit]

Humans
Sylvari
Various

Foes[edit]

Open world[edit]

Various
  • As an open world mission you can encounter any foe from the Echovald Wilds map and its events.

Objects[edit]

Dialogue[edit]

Arborstone (open world)[edit]

Door to Command Quarters: This door leads into the Command Quarters.
Talk quest option tango.png Enter the Command Quarters.
Talk end option tango.png Leave the door alone.
After going through the door
Taimi: I'm worried about Gorrik. He's so fixated on revenge...
Marjory Delaqua: I know. I worry about him too. But I'm keeping an eye on him. I'll make sure he doesn't do anything stupid.
Approaching Taimi and Marjory
Taimi: Oh, hi, Commander! Did Kuunavang have anything more to say about the dragon cycle?
<Character name>: Not yet. We're working hard to track down Ankka right now.
Taimi: Understood! We're busy over here too...
Speaking with Taimi
Taimi: So much to do...so little time. Can I help you with something, Commander?
Talk more option tango.png How are things going with Joon?
Taimi: Busy. Ever since you—ever since the reactor was destroyed, Joon's been trying to figure out how to fix it...
Taimi: And see what we built!
<Character name>: I did notice you look a little different.
Taimi: Yes! Xunlai has an entire MedTech division. They make braces for conditions like mine.
Taimi: They're incredible. I feel almost no pain when I'm wearing them.
Taimi: I did a little tweaking to the design. Added some extra functionality.
Taimi: Joon's going to incorporate my changes into Xunlai's next model.
Talk end option tango.png Ah, not right now.
As you approach the exit door, the hologram switches to Kasmeer
Lady Kasmeer Meade: And earlier, I managed to convince Ambassador Sianna to talk to the Minister of Agriculture about resilient food systems!
Lady Kasmeer Meade: I admit, I surprised even myself.
Marjory Delaqua: Well, I'm not at all surprised.
Lady Kasmeer Meade: I miss you...
Marjory Delaqua: I miss you too. Bedroll's been pretty lonely...
Lady Kasmeer Meade: I've got a great big empty bed here at the palace...
Marjory Delaqua: Oh yeah? You just rubbing that in or...?
Lady Kasmeer Meade: Well, not just...
If you approach Marjory after the hologram switched to Kasmeer
Lady Kasmeer Meade: Oh! Hi, Commander...
Marjory Delaqua: Do you mind...?
Door to Arborstone: This door leads back into the main hall of Arborstone.
Talk quest option tango.png Exit to Arborstones.
Talk end option tango.png Leave the door alone.
Speaking with Gorrik
Gorrik: Hey, I've been experimenting with this: really interesting Canthan tech.
Gorrik: It's an autonomously driven "deconstructor." Breaks down complex items into their component parts.
<Character name>: So what are you working on here? Looks like some kind of Aetherblade tech.
Gorrik: The Kestrels found it in Echovald, beeping like crazy. I think it's one of those airship transponders Renyak damaged.
Ivan: There's no way it's from one of ours. That outer shell is too new. Ours were old. Garbage.
Gorrik: No, it's definitely an Aetherblade transponder. Or was at some point.
Gorrik: Only an Aetherblade would splice wire with a...used bandage.
Ivan: How could it possibly be Aetherblade? Renyak could've fixed it up when he got here? I—I don't know.
<Character name>: Could it help us find Ankka?
Ivan: Maybe? Just need to triangulate the signal destination. You can do that, right?
Gorrik: Can I do it, he asks. We'll get it done, Commander.
Detective Rama: Commander, meet me at the entrance when you've got a minute. Ayumi's here with a new report about Ankka.
Optionally speaking with Ivan
Ivan: So, uh... You're probably wondering what I'm doing here. I'm glad you asked. Except you...didn't. I mean—
Gorrik: Commander, I know I should've checked first, but I thought since Ivan didn't have anywhere else to go...
(as ??)
<Character name>: No. I mean—no, of course, Ivan. Maybe you can help us track down Ankka and the Aetherblades.
(as female Sylvari)[verification requested]
<Character name>: No, of course, Ivan. Maybe you can help us track down Ankka and the Aetherblades.
Ivan: Right, ah... Speaking of which, where is my captain? Is she with you? Is she—? I—I mean, is she...
<Character name>: I'm sorry, Ivan.
Ivan: Don't be sorry for Captain Trin. Be sorry for Ankka. You're going to get her. Right?
<Character name>: I'll get her sooner if we're all working together.
Ivan: Then I volunteer my services to your crew. If I think of anything that can help, I'll let you know.
Meeting Rama and Ayumi
Ayumi: Commander. I trust that you and your friends are comfortable?
<Character name>: Very. The Kestrels have been more than accomodating. Thank you.
Detective Rama: Ayumi was just telling me that Ankka's been pretty busy since her little escapade in the reactor.
Ayumi: Putting it lightly. She's been sending Aetherblades to meet with both of the criminal gangs here in Echovald.
Detective Rama: The Speakers and the Jade Brotherhood. Only thing they agree on is they don't agree on anything.
<Character name>: Except working with Ankka, apparently. I should pay these gangs a visit. Ideally without them knowing.
Ayumi: I've got Kestrels stationed doutside each of their camps. Talk to them—they'll get you inside.
Detective Rama: I'm going to head for Mori Village. Southeast Echovald. Meet me there when you're done.
Optionally speaking with Rama or Ayumi
Detective Rama: Got a lot of work to do if we're going to catch this Ankka person. What do you need?
Talk more option tango.png What can you tell me about the Jade Brotherhood?
Detective Rama: Scavengers. Think of themselves as heroes of the downtrodden, but all they're doing is lining their own pockets.
Detective Rama: They scoop up any discarded jade tech they can get their hands on, then sell it to people who don't know any better.
Detective Rama: Even their name was scavenged for parts. They got nothing to do with the gang that went up against Am Fah.
Talk more option tango.png Tell me about the Speakers gang.
Detective Rama: (heavy sigh) Fanatics. Started off a well-intentioned if quirky bunch of "environmental defenders."
Detective Rama: But over time they went hardline. Started opposing any kind of technological progress.
Detective Rama: Then a Warden, Tetra Earthcall, took control—weaponized their good intentions.
Detective Rama: That's when they started enslaving spirits and bombing anyone they disagreed with.
Detective Rama: Got 'em all convinced they're gonna become "immortal forest spirits" like her.
Talk more option tango.png How is it working alongside Ayumi?
Detective Rama: The Kestrels—they're a force to be reckoned with. Wish I'd known about them sooner, honestly.
Detective Rama: Now that we're all on the same side, maybe we've actually got a chance to get ahead of Ankka and the Void.
Talk end option tango.png That's all. Thanks.
Ayumi: Anything you need, Commander?
Talk more option tango.png How will I get into the gang camps?
Ayumi: Sometimes we Kestrels go places we aren't...exactly invited.
Ayumi: Our spies have had a lot of practice crafting Brotherhood and Speaker illusions. They'll make sure you blend in.
Talk more option tango.png Any idea where the Aetherblades are hiding?
Ayumi: We've seen hints of them here and there. They're mobile, and they don't leave a lot of clues behind.
Ayumi: We found that transponder, the one we gave to Gorrik. Odd, though. Seems unlike them to leave that in the open.
Talk more option tango.png Thank you again for allowing us to stay here.
Ayumi: You're most welcome. I like to think of Arborstone as...a big nest. Where everyone comes together.
Ayumi: I want our hatchlings to be able to play here. Local merchants and businesses from far-off lands to work as one.
Ayumi: We have big plans for this place. We're happy you're a part of them.
Talk more option tango.png You said you were a member of the "Kestrels"?
Ayumi: Oh, yes! The Kestrels have been around since our ancestors fled to Echovald.
Ayumi: A few tengu made it their job to protect the others on their way, and, voilá, the Kestrels were born.
Ayumi: It's always been a loose association. No formal leadership.
Ayumi: Old Kestrels train new Kestrels, and so the order goes on! It's not actually a perfect system, if I'm being honest...
Ayumi: Lately, well, a few things've really gotten out of control. Gangs moved in, and they've been pushing people around.
Ayumi: Innocent people died.
Ayumi: I've been trying to get us to work together more, but, well, I'm pretty new at this...
Ayumi: I'm not actually from Echovald, so...no one takes me seriously.
Talk end option tango.png That's all. Thanks.

Open World[edit]

Upon exiting Arborstone
<Character name>: Aurene, Caithe? Did you ever catch up to Soo-Won?
Aurene: We did. In the Jade Sea. We're working with the local authorities to keep her form moving beyond Cantha.
Caithe: They didn't trust us at first. They'd seen the news bulletins blaming Aurene for Soo-Won's escape...
Caithe: Only took one fairly devastating skirmish with the Void to convince them it was worth believing we are on their side.
Aurene: They've sent word to Shing Jea to send more forces. We can only hope their government listens.
Aurene: We can't let the Void spread to the rest of Tyria, and the Void follows wherever she goes.
<Character name>: I know. We've already experienced its effects here in Echovald firsthand. We're on Ankka's trail now.

The Echovald Wilds: Speakers Camp[edit]

Talking to Kestrel Floi Grubbeak at the Speakers Camp (southwest)
Talk quest option tango.png Ayumi should have sent word. I need to investigate the Speakers.
I was briefed on the situation. One of our spies might have seen something, but they're busy right now. If you were to help with our mission, it would free them up to talk. You'll need a disguise.
Talk quest option tango.png I'll do that then. Disguise me. (same as "I understand the situation already. Can you disguise me?")
Talk end option tango.png Just give me a minute to prepare myself.
Talk more option tango.png What are you doing?
The Speakers are plotting some kind of big attack. We're trying to slow them down by sabotaging their operations, but we haven't made much of a dent yet.
Talk more option tango.png Maybe I can help?
As long as you can do it without getting caught. And if you do get caught, you never saw me. If you want to do it, I'll disguise you as one of their members.
Talk more option tango.png Any advice?
Try to act only when their backs are turned. Especially the Wardens.
Talk more option tango.png What should I do?
What's your style?
Talk more option tango.png I like to fight.
You could off a few guards, though it'll be hard to make that subtle. You could spar with some newer recruits—beat them badly enough, and it might convince them they made the wrong call joining up.
Talk back option tango.png Tell me more.
Talk end option tango.png Humiliation? On it.
Talk more option tango.png I'm good at messing up stuff.
You could free the spirits they've got imprisoned in urns. If you're any good at defusing bombs, it would be good to get those out of their hands. Just don't blow yourself up doing it.
Talk back option tango.png What else?
Talk end option tango.png Can do.
Talk more option tango.png Anything particularly challenging?
Challenging, eh? One of my associates is inside posing as a spirit keeper in the sanctum at the back of the compound. Give them the pass phrase, "From the smallest seed grows the biggest tree."
Talk back option tango.png "From the smallest..." Okay, I'll try to remember. Anything else?
Talk end option tango.png Okay, I'll do my best to remember...
Talk ready option.png On second thought, I think I'm ready.
Talk end option tango.png Never mind.
Talk end option tango.png Simple enough.
Talk end option tango.png Never mind.
Talk end option tango.png Hmm, maybe I can come back and help later.
Talk ready option.png I understand the situation already. Can you disguise me?
Of course. What sort of disguise would you like?
Talk ready option.png Give me a feminine appearance.
Talk ready option.png Give me a masculine appearance.
Talk ready option.png Neither of those.
Talk end option tango.png Never mind.
Karma.png I'd like to browse your wares, please.
Talk end option tango.png Sorry...
Talking to the Speaker Lieutenant as part of the Silenced Voices achievement
Speaker Lieutenant: Welcome, child. I have not seen you within our sacred grove before. I sense a...longing within you. You crave knowledge. You've come to the right place. I will guide you.
Talk collection option.png Pardon me, honored one, but there's something I must tell you.
My time is valuable, but you have the look of someone with important—no, dire—news to share. Tell me what troubles you, child.
Talk more option tango.png I saw a ritualist hide something in his tent. It looked like...jade tech.
What! It was wise of you to bring this to me. Thank you, child.
Talk end option tango.png I only wish to serve our case as best I can...
Talk end option tango.png I have no need of your guidance just now.
Mail received after completing the Speakers heart (southwest)

Mail.png

A Friend

Rendezvous


You don't know me, but I've been watching your actions, and it's clear that your cause and mine align. Meet me atop the arch at the western edge of the camp overlooking the Speaker's Sanctum.

Talking to the Speaker Lieutenant after completing the heart
Speaker Lieutenant: I see a familiar shimmer around you. You're disguised, just the same as me. What brings you into the Speakers' camp? Sabotage?
Talk quest option tango.png I'm trying to locate a sky pirate named Ankka. She's an Aetherblade.
Aetherblades... One of them was caught infiltrating the camp a few days ago, trying to pilfer some arcane artifacts. That's all I know. Guards from the southeast lookout were on watch that day.
Talk quest option tango.png Where can I find these guards?
I don't think they're on shift for another couple hours, so they'll probably be on break by the tents near their lookout.
Tick green.png I see. Thank you for the information.
Talk end option tango.png Let's talk later.
Approaching the off-duty sentries at the south side of Warden's Folly
Speaker Assassin: What happened with that outsider we caught?
Speaker Scout: Tetra gave the sky pirate to the ritualists for...a chat.
Speaker Scout: Apparently they got a lot out of him. Saw a notebook that was full of intel change hands.
Speaker Scout: Yingge said the screams were...well, he's still not sleeping through the night. Better we don't know what happened.
Interacting with the notebook at Speaker's Sanctum in Warden's Folly
Speaker Ritualist's Notebook

These outsiders—Aetherblades, they call themselves—are as arrogant and stupid as Tetra believed them to be. The subject claimed to have been searching for cast-off "technology," but judging from the steam-based devices it carried on its person, they lag far behind Canthan technocrats. Under my supervision, the thief confessed to numerous crimes, ranging from the most petty acts of larcency up to and including the wholesale murder of many innocents during an attack on one of northern Tyria's major cities. Needless to say, I will sleep soundly after this.

Through their screams, the subject was quite insistent about their desire to return to their homelands, though the subject made the ludicrous claim that they could traverse the Mists with the same ease that a skiff parts the waters of Lake Lutgardgis[sic]. The subject claimed to be searching for a specific part that would help them in that mission.

Before we could pry out any more details. Tetra ordered me to stop. She told me that the pirate band's leader, an individual going by Ankka, had approached her with a proposal. We assumed she was after her lackey, but no...she was only interested in the technology that was on the subject. While Tetra was busy considering the terms of the deal, the pirates simply...withdrew from negotiations.

Tetra was not pleased by their sudden change of heart, though I am skeptical that the scoundrels would have upheld any deal we might have brokered. For my part, I'm happy enough with how things have gone, as it gives me more time with my subject. I believe there are many more gems to uncover in this one.

Radio chatter with your allies
Detective Rama: Learn anything at the Speakers camp, Commander?

The Echovald Wilds: Jade Brotherhood Camp[edit]

Talking to Kestrel Michiko at the Jade Brotherhood camp (north)
The outsider. I heard you might be around, and that you're a friend. If you're here to infiltrate the Jade Brotherhood, I can help.
Talk quest option tango.png What's involved?
Just let me know how you want to look, and I'll set you up with a mesmer glamour. Then we'll talk about what you do inside. Ready?
Talk ready option.png Give me a feminine appearance.
Talk ready option.png Give me a masculine appearance.
Talk ready option.png Neither one of those.
Talk end option tango.png Forget it. I'll deal with this later.
Talk more option tango.png What is this place? (see dialogue section at Kestrel Michiko)
Talk more option tango.png What should I do inside? (see dialogue section at Kestrel Michiko)
Talk end option tango.png I'll just be going.
After choosing a disguise
(see dialogue section at Kestrel Michiko)
Talking to Kage as part of the Jade Shadow achievement
You are the "commander" Ayumi briefed us on, yes? I'm glad you're here. I think this arrangement might prove to be mutually beneficial. Did you have time to consider a proposal?
Talk more option tango.png Sure! If I can help the Kestrels, I will.
We've identified a cache of tech in the Jade Brotherhood that needs to be destroyed, and it needs to look as though the Speakers were responsible.
Talk more option tango.png Did you have an idea of how to go about that?
Enter the Brotherhood camp in disguise, and identify the cache and its weakness. Then go to the Speakers, identify the right tool for the job, and return to use it on the cache.
Tick green.png That'll hurt both gangs. Clever. I'm on it!
Talk end option tango.png Actually, let me get back to you.
Mail received after completing the Jade Brotherhood heart (north)

Mail.png

Kestrel Master Spy

Guards


Commander,

Ayumi was right about you. I've already seen the impact of your efforts inside the camp. One of our scouts reported hearing a pair of guards talking about the Aetherblades. Before he could hear the relevant details, however, they left for their break. The scout followed as close as they could and managed to hear that the pair were going to take their break "near the waterfall." Perhaps you can find them and learn more.

Approaching the off-duty guards at the north end of the Jade Brotherhood camp
Brotherhood Pistoleer: Meeting went sideways real fast, apparently. Aetherblade had some kinda device that revealed a Kestrel was spying on us...
Brotherhood Pistoleer: He assumed it was a setup and that we were planning to cheat him.
Brotherhood Junker: So what happened after that?
Brotherhood Pistoleer: All I heard's that it ended badly for the Aetherblade. Rest of the story's probably in the security log.
Interacting with the Brotherhood Security Report (one level up - use the Jade Teleporter)
Brotherhood Security Log

Confidential. Jade Brotherhood Eyes Only!


Security Log (cont'd.)—Prepared by Guard Hayou

The outsider, a low-ranking member of the pirate band dubbing themselves "Aetherblades," approached the negotiation with the stated intention to bargain for some sort of technology. Shortly after discussions began, the pirate jumped up and brandished some sort of device in one hand and drew their sword with the other. The device sent a beam of energy toward one of the perimeter guards, dispelling the mesmeric energy around them, revealing them to be a disguised Kestrel spy.

While four of our members leapt to contain the spy, detaining him quickly, the Aetherblade bared his fangs with a growl, yelling, "Treason!" and began to attack the nearest of our brothers. The charr are well known for their ferocity, and to his credit, the Aetherblade cut down three of our number before anyone could react. However, numbers won the day, and we were able to end the pirate's life quickly, then disposed of the body.

Our scouts report that the Aetherblades believe we still have their man in custody, and Chul-Moo has tentatively agreed to a meeting with their leader, an asura named Ankka. Chul-Moo believes the entire band of brigands is highly unstable, maintaining their ruse until they can devise an adequate contingency plan.

As for the Kestrel, the spy has been imprisoned in one of the upper rooms across from the security room. Chul-Moo suspects that the spy knows more about these Aetherblades and their leader, and he wishes to glean everything he can from the treacherous tengu before making a decision on his fate.

Speaking with the Imprisoned Kestrel Spy
Imprisoned Kestrel Spy: I hear you skulking around out there. Are you here to mock me? I've spent countless hours here, right under your noses. It took an outsider to figure it out.
Talk quest option tango.png I'm not Brotherhood either. The master spy outside disguised me.
Ah, well, if you're here to rescue me, I'm not quite ready to go yet. I'm getting more intelligence just sitting here listening to the arrogant fools brag than I did when I was undercover.
Talk quest option tango.png I'll let him know you're fine for now. I'm looking for an asura: Ankka.
Mm. Before they put me in here, I overheard a guard say that Ankka was looking to deal, but sounded to them like she just wanted the tech. That she didn't even ask if her compatriot was alive.
Talk quest option tango.png That sounds like Ankka. What happened with the deal?
Word around camp was she pulled out at the last minute. No explanation, no reason. Just no-showed.
Tick green.png Hmm...thanks for the info. I'll let the Kestrels know you're okay.
Talk end option tango.png I'll be back in a bit.
Radio chatter with your allies upon leaving the camp following completion of the heart
Ayumi: Commander, what'd you find at the Jade Brotherhood camp?
<Character name>: They'd captured an Aetherblade. But Ankka was after her stolen tech, not the pirate's life. Then she backed out.
Ayumi: Dooming the pirate. Though also ensuring the gang kept the stolen technology.
Kestrel Scout: Commander, we found the Aetherblades' camp. Seems Ankka's long gone, but there might still be some clues on site.
<Character name>: Excellent work. I'll head over there soon. Get a look at their defenses?
Kestrel Scout: A score of angry sky pirates with swords and guns. Nothing you can't handle, if I may be so bold.
Marjory Delaqua: Heh. This one's got you figured, Commander.

The Echovald Wilds: Aetherblade Hideout[edit]

If entering the Aetherblade Hideout directly
<Character name>: Looks like I just found our secret Aetherblade camp.
Kestrel Scout: Marking its location now, Commander. I'll make sure the other Kestrels know about it.
Interacting with the voice recorder for audio log Ankka "1335-A32" (on the left of the Aetherblade Hideout)
Ankka: First thing that happens when we make camp? The locals have to show their teeth. Prove who's in charge.
Ankka: Two of my pirates got caught. Normally I'd shrug it off as a loss, but I'm not that lucky.
Ankka: They'd been salvaging parts for a new Mist portal device. Then they were captures, along with the parts.
Ankka: But I should be realistic. Even if I get those parts, the portal device is a long shot.
Ankka: Which is nice, in a way. Negotiation is so much easier without emotional attachment.
Interacting with the voice recorder for audio log Ankka "1335-M77" (on the right of the Aetherblade Hideout)
Ankka: Pretty sure the Jade Brotherhood's gonna want to hang on to the tech, so the Speakers should—
Aetherblade Thug: Captain! There's a—it's an Aetherblade ship! Just passed overhead!
Ankka: That is—as you know—completely impossible.
Aetherblade Thug: We know what we saw, Captain. Got a quick scan before it disappeared. It's got a functional portal device on board.
Ankka: Hm. Well. That's interesting. Show me where it was headed.
Radio chatter with your allies after listening to both voice recorders, also upon returning to The Echovald Wilds prior to reaching Mori Village
<Character name>: So Ankka's trying to rebuild their Mist portal device. Each of the captured Aetherblades had a piece she needed.
Ayumi: Then that mystery airship appears with a working model on board.
Detective Rama: Ankka cancels the negotiations and turns her focus to finding the airship. Which means we should probably find it first.
Ivan: Hey, Commander! It's Ivan! You know, from work? I think me an' Gorrik have a lead there. Where can we all meet?
Ayumi: I've got my hands full with the Speakers and the Jade Brotherhood, so I have to sit this out. Rama's waiting at our village.
Gorrik: We're on our way!

The Echovald Wilds: Mori Village[edit]

Approaching your allies at Mori Village
Detective Rama: Commander! Over here.
Speaking with Rama
Nangan: Welcome to Mori Village. I was just finishing up showing your friends around.
Gorrik: Apparently we're the first asura and dredge to be invited into the village.
Detective Rama: Yeah, real honor. Maybe we should—?
Gorrik: Right. Commander, that transponder the Kestrels found? It's weird, but it was on its own network.
Ivan: But still technically Aetherblade! When I activated the transponders, it started broadcasting its signal.
Gorrik: Whoever's piloting that ship probably got spooked and threw it overboard, which is how we found it.
Detective Rama: And it seems like the transponder's still communicating with the ship. Signal's weak, but it points to Melandru's Hope.
<Character name>: Then it sounds like I'm headed to Melandru's Hope to find us an airship. Good work, you two.
Speaking again with Rama before leaving (or maybe just waiting a bit)
Detective Rama: All these gangs running around—can't be easy getting supplies in here.
Nangan: We manage. But only just.
Ivan: You don't have to sugarcoat it. I used to double as teh ship's cook. I know a hungry crowd when I see one.
Nangan: Unfortunately we have far more than a ship's worth of gulltes to feed.
Ivan: I hear ya. One time I had to feed my whole crew with a single prismatic ooze and a block of salt.
Gorrik: Are prismatic oozes even edible?
Ivan: It damn sure was when I got done with it.

The Echovald Wilds: Secret Cavern[edit]

Entering the extremely vague area marked on the world map
Gorrik: You're headed in the right direction, Commander. Somewhere that way.
Whilst still locating the airship, following the green arrows on the world map
Ivan: Just got a slight uptick in signal strength. I think you're getting closer.
Entering the little green circle on the world map, facing the door in the cliff
Gorrik: Signal's spiking, Commander! You've got to be right on top of the source.
<Character name>: Well, I'm just looking at a strange door. Are you sure this is it?
Gorrik: The signal doesn't lie. Take a look inside.
Interacting with the door
Strange Door: A strange door is wedged into the rock face, frames by thick wooden beams.
Talk quest option tango.png Open the door to investigate where the signal is coming from.
Talk end option tango.png Leave the door alone.
Approaching the airship
<Character name>: I'm inside and...there IS an airship. It's got Aetherblade markings, all right... I'll keep you all posted.
Boarding the airship
Familiar-Sounding Voice (Male): Captain, we have a trespasser! Prepare deck-side defenses!
Familiar-Sounding Voice (Female): We don't have any deck-side defenses. Also, you don't order me around. I order you around.
Familiar-Sounding Voice (Male): Belay that order, Captain! We've got an old friend clambering aboard!
Canach: Was wondering when you'd show up, Commander. Come on inside, we'll have a drink.
Sayida the Sly: We drank all the drinks.
Approaching Canach and Sayida
<Character name>: Sayida. Canach. I have to assume you're here on purpose.
Canach: On purpose, with purpose! Commander, you are looking at the world's largest—
Sayida the Sly: Only.
Canach: —flying VIP social club and gourmet restaurant. Unfortunately, we lack the room...and willpower for expansion.
Sayida the Sly: He says that like it's my fault.
<Character name>: Okay. I stuck with you as long as I could, but we're going to talk about something else now.
<Character name>: Captain Trin of the Aetherblades was murdered by her first mate, Ankka. Ankka wants this ship.
Sayida the Sly: She can get in line.
<Character name>: I need her to think she can skip the line. Nothing we've done has surprised her. I want to change that.
Canach: You want to use us as bait? To draw out your murderous pirate? See, this is why I miss you, Commander.
Sayida the Sly: What exactly would we get out of this suicide pact you're proposing?
Marjory Delaqua: As saviors of Cantha? Pretty sure Kas could negotiate that into a favorable rate on a site for Canach's "social club."
Sayida the Sly: A site off my ship?
Canach: Well, let's not be too—
Sayida the Sly: Done.
Canach: —hasty. Okay. Consider us bait, Commander.
Exiting the ship
Ayumi: Smart thinking, Commander. We can lay a trap for Ankka wherever that ship's going to moor.
Gorrik: She won't go down without a fight.
Detective Rama: Should pick a spot where people are least likely to get hurt.
Ayumi: The Xunlai Jade scrap yard. Right in the center of Echovald. That'll be quiet enough.
Ivan: I could send out a false message on their comms network! I've been working on a relay...
Gorrik: Ooh, yes! Ankka will definitely hear it. And if she knows there aren't any defenses, she might get overconfident.
Gorrik: At least overconfident enough to bring the Extractor along for a speedy getaway.
Ivan: Message sent and received!
<Character name>: Good work, Ivan. Everyone, come to the airship, and we'll escort it to the scrap yard.
Ivan: Ivan's on the way!
Gorrik: That's probably not the best idea. If I can hack around your photon forge, so can Ankka.
Marjory Delaqua: You can monitor Aetherblade chatter from Arborstone, Ivan. Be our eyes and ears.
Ivan: All right. Just...promise me she won't get away.
<Character name>: She won't get away.

My story[edit]

Fallout- Arborstone loading screen.png

If tracking down Ankka wasn't our top priority before, it sure as hell is now. Her Extractor might be the only way to pacify Soo-Won. We need to find her.

The Kestrels provided us with two leads: The first was a piece of Aetherblade tech they'd found in Echovald. The second was intel on Ankka's movements.

Gorrik believed the tech to be one of the airship transponders damaged by Renyak. With some time, he might be able to use it to help us. As for Ankka's movements, according to Ayumi, she'd been sending Aetherblades to talk with both the Speakers and the Jade Brotherhood. What is she planning? I have to know.

***

While Aurene and Caithe worked to keep Soo-Won within the Jade Sea, the Kestrels helped me infiltrate the gang camps to learn more about Ankka's dealings. Apparently, she'd been negotiating with both sides before abruptly backing out. Why?

All became clear when we located the Aetherblades' camp. Ankka was long gone, but her audio logs remained. As it turned out, she was trying to build a Mist portal device, and both the Speakers and Brotherhood possessed parts that she needed. The reason she backed out of talks with them? Reports of a new Aetherblade airship that just arrived in the area—complete with a working portal device, according to their scans. Ankka no longer needed to build her own.

Using the newly repaired transponder, Gorrik was able to trace the airship's signal to Melandru's Hope. We need to beat Ankka there at all costs.

***

After some searching, we located the ship in a well-hidden cavern. Its owners—our old friends, Canach and Sayida! They've come to Cantha to start a new business venture: a social club / gourmet restaurant. I apprised them of our current situation with Ankka and offered them a proposal: let us use their ship as bait to draw Ankka out and, in return, we'll help them with the setup of their establishment.

We had an accord. The best place to lure Ankka is the Xunlai Jade Junkyard, at the center of Echovald. No bystanders will get caught in the crossfire there. Ivan, who has now pledged himself to our cause, sent out a false message to the Aetherblades' comms network.

This entire time, Ankka has been one step ahead of us. But not anymore. Our trap is set.

My story

Notes[edit]

  • The Jade Shadow and Silenced Voices achievements can only be completed whilst the story step "To Catch a Spider" is active.
  • Unlike the other EoD story chapters, this one does not give Tales of Adventure upon repeating it on a character who has previously completed this chapter.
  • In case you cannot find the Aetherblade camp, Anet explains how to access it here.