Final Fantasy IX Walkthrough

by Lassarina Aoibhell

Greetings and welcome to my Final Fantasy IX walkthrough. I have done my best to make this the most complete and correct walkthrough I could. I have also tried very hard to ensure that there will be no spoilers, except the unavoidable ones inherent in writing a walkthrough. I spent over 250 hours of my personal time working on this, so PLEASE do not copy it! If you would like to post it on your page--unaltered--give me credit and email me at rina@rpgplace.net. All that said, on with the walkthrough.

Key
Items and cards will be in bold.
Key items will be in red bold text.
Moogles' names will be in blue bold text.
Stellazio coins will be in bold italic text.
*Please note that bosses will not be listed in the "Monsters" list for each section.
*I use "north," "south" "east" and "west" to refer to approximate directions in dungeons throughout this walkthrough. North means toward the top of the screen, south toward the bottom, east toward the right side of the screen (the player's right) and west toward the left (player's left). When on the World Map, these directions refer to compass points on the actual map.

Table of Contents

Disc One
I. Prima Vista
II. Alexandria
III. Alexandria Castle
IV. Evil Forest
V. Ice Cavern
VI. Frontier Village Dali
VII. Lindblum
VIII. Qu's Marsh and Chocobo Forest
IX. Gizamaluke's Grotto
X. Grand Citadel South Gate
XI. Burmecia, Realm of Eternal Rain

Disc Two
Part I: Summit Station/Quan's Dwelling
Part II: Dark City Treno
Part III: Gargan Roo
Part IV: Cleyra Trunk
Part V: Cleyra Settlement
Part VI: Alexandria
Part VII: Pinnacle Rocks
Part VIII: Lindblum
Part IX: Fossil Roo
Part X: Conde Petie
Part XI: Black Mage Village
Part XII: Mountain Path
Part XIII: Madain Sari
Part XIV: Iifa Tree
Part XV: Madain Sari Revisited
Part XVI: Iifa Tree Part Two

Disc Three
Part I: Alexandria
Part II: Treno
Part III: Alexandria In Danger
Part IV: Lindblum
Part V: Black Mage Village
Part VI: Dealing with Kuja
Part VII: Errand to Oelivert
Part VIII: Desert Palace
Part IX: Esto Gaza
Part X: Mount Gulug
Part XI: Chocobos
Part XII: Dageurreo
Part XIII: Alexandria Again
Part XIV: Wandering
Part XV: Friendly Monsters
Part XVI: Ipsen's Castle
Part XVII: The Four Shrines
Part XVIII: The Shimmering Island
Part XIX: Bran Bal
Part XX: Pandemonium

Disc Four
Part I: Black Mage Village
Part II: Excalibur and the Stellazio
Part III: Chocobos and Ozma
Part IV: Mognet Central
Part V: The Secret of the Eidolon Wall
Part VI: Loose Ends
Part VII: Memoria
Part VIII: The Final Battles

Disc One

Part I: Prima Vista

Items	Potion, 47 Gil
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	None
Moogles	None
Shops	None
Special Notes	None

The game starts with a beautiful FMV. When you are in control of Zidane, head to the north end of this room for a Potion and 47 Gil. Then light the candle. You will fight Baku, from whom you can steal a series of nifty items: a Potion, a Wrist, and a Mage Masher.

After the fight, you'll meet with Baku. All you have to do in this scene is remember which royal female you're supposed to kidnap. (That would be Garnet.) If you choose the option of kidnapping Queen Brahne 64 times, Ruby will jump into the conversation, but otherwise there's not much point to getting it wrong.

Part II: Alexandria

Items	Potion (x7), 9 Gil, 33 Gil, 27 Gil, 38 Gil, Phoenix Pinion, Ether, Eye Drops, 29 Gil, 92 Gil, Tent, Remedy
Key Items	Ticket, Jump Rope King
Cards	Fang (x3), Zombie, Lizard Man, Sahagin, Goblin (x3), Flan, Skeleton, Ironite, Bomb
Monsters	None
Moogles	Kupo, Stiltzkin
Shops	(Not currently open)
Special Notes	None

You'll be in control of a new character now. Head back in the direction you originally came from for a Lizard Man Card, Sahagin Card, Potion, and Zombie Card. Now move on to the next screen (where you started out.) The house to the immediate right has a Potion by the table and a Fang Card in the bureau in the attic. At the corner of the bed you can find 9 Gil. Outside, go straight across the street for another Potion. Farther along and to the left (just past the man in brown) is yet another Potion.

Go to the next screen. Check the grass to the right for 33 Gil. In the bar, you'll find a Potion, Flan Card, and 27 Gil. Search the grass at the left for a Goblin Card, then continue to the left. In this new screen, the Item Shop (to your right) is not open for business, but you can find 38 Gil hidden inside. Head up to get to the next screen.

The ticket booth is in the center. Ask the ticket master about Alexandria, the play, Garnet, and Brahne if you so desire. When your curiosity is satisfied, show him your ticket. After some conversation, you'll receive Goblin, Fang, and Skeleton Cards. Now, to the right is the Synthesist's Shop. There is an Ether hidden inside. The Weapon Shop, also on this block, is not open. Search near the castle entrance for a Phoenix Pinion. The Inn is on the other side of the area. Near the inn is a group of three girls playing jump rope. They will invite Vivi to join them. There is a certain rhythm to this mini-game, and you can win prizes for completing a certain number of jumps, as seen below:

Jump-Rope Prizes
No. of Jumps	Prize
20	10 Gil
50	Cactuar Card
100	Genji Card
200	Alexandria Card
300	Tiger Racket Card
1000	King of the Jump Rope key item

Head into the alley near the girls and you will encounter a grumpy sign maker and a character identified as "Rat Kid." Refuse to be his slave. Go back into the main Square and speak to Hippaul, who is near the castle entrance. Return to the alley and speak to Rat Kid again. This time, agree to be his slave. Hurry along after him as he runs off with the ladder. Investigate the next screen to find Eye Drops. Talk to the boy on the dock. He is looking for his cat. If you'd like to help him out, go all the way back to the very first screen (the Memorial Square) to find her.

Enter the bell tower, where you will find the Moogles Kupo and Stiltzkin.. Ask Kupo about Mognet, and agree to carry letters for him. You might wish to save your game at this point, as it will be quite a while before you encounter another opportunity to do so.

Climb up the ladder after Rat Kid and follow him across the roofs. When the flimsy wooden bridge falls, check the chimney to the left for 29 Gil. Go up. Where Puck turned left, go north and check the chimney to the left for 92 Gil. Then follow Puck.

During the play, the "SFX" commands will do no damage in battle, but they are interesting to watch. Take out the guards first, then handle Baku/King Leo. In the ensuing sword fight, you must follow Blank's lead by pressing the appropriate buttons quickly. The more nobles you impress, the more Gil you will get. Queen Brahne will be impressed if you impress enough nobles. There is an additional side benefit to doing well in the sword fight: the more nobles you impress, the better an item Steiner will get slightly later in this scene. The chart relating impressed nobles to the item you get is below:

Items to Earn for Steiner
Nobles Impressed	Item Received
1-49	Ether
50-79	Elixir
80-99	Silk Shirt
100	Moonstone

Part III: Alexandria Castle

Items	Phoenix Down (x2), Elixir, Phoenix Pinion
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	None
Moogles	Mosh
Shops	None
Special Notes	Make sure to talk to all the Knights of Pluto to get a special item!

As Zidane, run straight up the stairs. When you encounter the hooded girl, select the option to check her face.

As Steiner, run down to the armory, where you will find two Knights of Pluto. Order them to get out, and search near the door for a Phoenix Down. Speak to Mosh to save if you wish. Head out of the armory into the hall and through the north door. To the right, there are some cooks. To the left, you will find a third Pluto Knight. Give him his orders as well, though he doesn't immediately follow them. You can try a bit of the food if you like. As you're leaving, you'll run into a fourth Knight of Pluto.

Head down the stairs. To the left, in the library, is another Pluto Knight. Now run out into the courtyard, where you will find the sixth Pluto Knight by the water. Go to the left and nag the amorous Knight there. There is a door north of Steiner; go through it and climb the circular staircase, where you will find the eighth and final Knight of Pluto. If you have spoken to all the others, he will give you an Elixir.

Back on the Prima Vista, head to the right. After you fall into the Engine Room, face the metal structure and turn the wheel left and right. You'll receive a Phoenix Down and Phoenix Pinion. Head through the door to your left and get back up on the stage. You will fight Steiner three times in a row.

Boss: Steiner
HP	169, 162, 167
Steal	Leather Hat, Silk Shirt

The first of these three fights takes place in the hold of the Prima Vista. Steal Steiner's items, then attack. The second fight will take place on stage, and will involve two of the Knights of Pluto as well. Zidane and Marcus should attack; Vivi should cast Fire; Garnet is your party's medic. There will be a dramatic FMV, and then the third fight. Ignore the Bomb monster and concentrate on Steiner, using the same tactics as in the second fight.

Part IV: Evil Forest

Items	Phoenix Down, Bronze Gloves, Ether (x2), 116 Gil, Rubber Helm, Potion (x2), Ether, Wrist, Leather Hat, Eye Drops
Key Items	Blank's Medicine, Continental Map, Moogle Flute
Cards	None
Monsters	Fang, Goblin, Dendrobium, Plant Spider
Moogles	Mosco, Monty
Shops	None
Special Notes	There is a recovery spring in this area that will restore your HP and MP for free!

View the ATE and save with Mosco. There is a Phoenix Down in the boxes by the Trumpeter and Conductor. Head through the tree trunk to find Vivi. You will fight the Prison Cage.

Boss: Prison Cage
HP	513, 533
Weakness	Fire
Steal	Leather Wrist, Broadsword
AP	3
Win	Phoenix Down, Eye Drops, Goblin Card

The Prison Cage has some items definitely worth stealing. It will occasionally absorb Garnet's HP, so use Potions to keep her alive. Zidane will automatically trance. Use his Free Energy Dyne attack--that way, you can both conserve MP and be sure you won't injure Garnet. Since you will fight this enemy again, go ahead and use your Trance to attack.

After you defeat it, the Prison Cage will run off with Garnet, and you will fight it again. This time, Vivi lends his aid. Have him cast Fire repeatedly, and have Zidane Steal until you've gotten all of Prison Cage's items. Then blast it repeatedly with physical attacks from Zidane and Fire attacks from Vivi.

back on the Prima Vista after this battle, speak to Baku. There is a pair of Bronze Gloves on the bridge. You can see three ATE's. Go down the stairs and speak to Blank, then visit Vivi. In the room where Vivi is resting, you can find an Ether and 116 Gil. Leave his room and select the option that will have you search for Garnet. Talk to Blank and go left, then speak to Marcus and go down. At the top of this room is a Rubber Helm. Go to the right to find Baku. After he walks away, search where he was standing for a Potion, and then follow him. Talk to him to begin the fight.

Boss: Baku
HP	150
Weakness	None
Steal	Hi-Potion, Iron Sword
AP	-
Win	-

Baku has good items to steal, and can be taken down with repeated physical attacks. Use Potions to heal Zidane if his HP gets too low. This isn't a difficult fight.

After the battle with Baku, go up to the room where Steiner is and speak to him. He will join you; make sure you update his equipment. There is an Ether at the bottom of the screen in this room, and a Wrist in the room to the right. Go to visit Vivi and get him to join your party, and then head back to the room where you fought Baku. Head down and talk to Blank, who will give you Blank's Medicine. There is a Leather Hat to his left. Outside, save with Mosco. (If you need rest, you can rest in the room where you found Vivi.) Talk to Mosco and choose "Mognet" to see a letter from Ruby, back in Alexandria. Head into the forest again. Where you fought the Prison Cage, go into the hole. Head left to see the river, then go to the right. Use the spring to restore your HP and MP. There is a moogle named Monty here. You should have a letter for him. If you select the Mognet option again, he will have a letter from Stiltzkin. It's time to move on and meet the monarch of the Evil Forest.

Boss: Plant Brain
HP	916
Weakness	Fire
Steal	Iron Helm, Eye Drops
AP	20
Win	Phoenix Down, maybe Potion

Zidane should concentrate on stealing, and then on attacking. Steiner should use his Fire Sword and Vivi should cast Fire repeatedly. When Blank joins your party, have him attack. After the plant uses its Pollen attack, use Eye Drops to cure affected party members. It is more important to remove the Darkness condition from Zidane, Steiner, and Blank than from Vivi, as Vivi is attacking with magic, which is not affected by Darkness. After you defeat the Plant Brain, enjoy the FMV. You'll receive the Continental Map from Blank.

Later, after Mogster gives you a quick tutorial, you'll receive the Moogle Flute. Your next destination is the Ice Cavern, which is south of the forest. However, first go west to North Gate, where you can purchase some items. In North Gate you can find Eye Drops to the left and a Potion. On the way to the Ice Cavern, you may wish to try and level up.

Part V: Ice Cavern

Items	Tent, Ether, Potion (x2), Elixir, Mage Masher, Phoenix Down, Leather Wrist
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Fang, Wyerd, Cave Imp, Flan
Moogles	Mois
Shops	None
Special Notes	All enemies in this area are particularly weak against Fire.

The Ice Cavern is awfully pretty for a dungeon, in my opinion. From the entrance, to up and to the left. Jump down at the ! icon to retrieve a Tent from the treasure chest. Hop back up and continue up along the path. In the next screen, go right and examine the wall. Vivi will exert some Fire magic to melt it, enabling you to obtain the Ether hidden behind it. Go to the left, but don't go up the steps just yet. There is a small path to the right of the steps; run along it for a Potion. Then come back and go up the steps.

Take the left hand path in the next room and melt the wall to get an Elixir. Head down and cross the chunk of ice to the upper ledge for a Potion. Go back down and poke around the base of that chunk of ice until the ! icon appears. Press X to have Vivi move it, and go along it again to pick up a Mage Masher. Equip this to Zidane promptly, as it is not only more powerful than his initial equip Dagger, but will be invaluable very shortly.

This room's exit is up and to the right. In the next room, the treasure chest to your right is a Phoenix Down. Take the left hand path and melt the wall to get a Leather Wrist. Now head up. When the path divides, take the left-hand fork and free Mois. Despite his attitude, he'll let you use a tent and save. After doing so, go back to the previous room, and take the right-hand path this time.

Boss: Black Waltz #1 and Sealion
HP	229, 472
Weakness	Fire (both), Mute (Black Waltz #1)
Steal	(Black Waltz #1) Silk Shirt, Remedy (Sealion) Mythril Dagger, Ether
AP	5
Win	Hi-Potion, Fang Card, Phoenix Down

Steal, steal, and steal! These enemies have some nifty items, particularly the Mythril Dagger that the Sealion is carrying. If Zidane Trances, use Tidal Flame to inflict large amounts of damage. Keep his HP high with Potions. This is not a difficult fight. Afterward, go back to retrieve your companions, then follow the path upward to get out.

Part VI: Frontier Village Dali

Items	135 Gil, Hi-Potion, Antidote, Potion (x4), 156 Gil, Eye Drops, Ether, Leather Wrist, Iron Helm, 95 Gil, Phoenix Down, Phoenix Pinion
Key Items	Aries Stellazio
Cards	None
Monsters	Ghost, Vice, Carve Spider, Python, Mu (Friendly)
Moogles	Gumo, Kumop
Shops	Part-Time Worker Mary's Medicine Shop, Eve's Item Shop, Tavern Medicine Shop
Special Notes	This section covers the heights outside of Dali as well as the village itself.

After leaving the Ice Cavern, head on over to South Gate. If you select all of the guard's options at least once, Part-Time Worker Mary will offer to sell your crew some medicines. Having concluded your business in South Gate, head to Observatory Mountain, which is the large lumpy thing near the village. Speak to Morrid, who will mention that he's very interested in gourmet coffee. Keep this in mind. To the right of the steps outside, you can find 135 Gil. You may go up to the observatory point if you're curios, but there is nothing there. There is a Hi-Potion hidden in the brown contraption in front of Morrid's house. In this area there's the chance you will encounter the Friendly Mu, the first of a series of Friendly Monsters. It is to your benefit to appease his request for Ore--though you won't see the benefit till much, much, much later.

Now head to Dali. Make sure you save outside. You'll stay the night at the Inn. When you wake up, it seems Zidane has overslept. Poke around the room to find an Antidote and a Potion. You can view a number of ATEs here. Speak to Gumo the moogle, who will save your game. Step back into the room where you slept for a moment, and then return to the front room to view another ATE. Leave the Inn and head across the street to shop. You can choose to compliment Dagger on her efforts. I usually do, because she's trying her best. After you leave the shop, you can peek in on Dagger trying out her new mode of speech by peering in the shop window.

The next house on the left is the Mayor's. For a public servant, he's really rather rude. Now go speak to Vivi, and investigate the windmill near him. Step behind the turning part of the windmill to get the Aries Stellazio, the first in a long series you'll collect over the course of the game. You can climb up to the loft if you wish, but you can't get to the treasures at this time. Now head back to the Inn and talk to Dagger. If you need items, drop by the Pub to the right of the windmill on your way to the Inn.

After speaking to Dagger, head over to where you last saw Vivi. Slip into the windmill and examine the large grey lump that the miller was previously guarding. Choose to go down the ladder. At the bottom is a treasure chest containing 156 Gil. Move on to the next room and observe the scene there.

In the pavilion where the two men were conversing, you can find a Potion. Across the room, against the fence, is a chest containing Eye Drops. Investigate the barrel to release Kumop, and then hop up the crates to get an Ether. Examine the pulley and choose "kick it" to get another Potion.

In the next room, poke around to the right to get a Leather Wrist. Then head back to the entrance and climb up on the boxes to get an Iron Helm. You can hop down off the far end of the box stack. Moving on, you'll need to free Vivi. The treasure chest to the left contains 95 Gil. Open the door near the treasure chest to fight two Ghosts. Inside the room you'll find a Phoenix Down, Potion, and to the far right, Phoenix Pinion. There isn't much more to see here. Go back to the room where you liberated Vivi and cross the bridge at the left side of the screen. You'll soon switch to Steiner's viewpoint. As Steiner, follow Morrid and talk to him. One thing leads to another; be prepared for a boss fight.

Boss: Black Waltz #2
HP	1030
Weakness	Fire
Steal	Steepled Hat, Leather Plate
AP	5
Win	Ether, Zaghnol Card

This boss has some nifty items to steal. Beyond that, beware: although his weakness is Fire, he will retaliate strongly against any magic except Blizzard. Have Vivi cast Blizzard repeatedly and Steiner use the Blizzard Sword. Zidane should steal, and attack once he's gotten both items. Have Dagger cast Protect and Cure on your party.

Afterward, take the lovely Princess's advice and rest at the Inn. You might also wish to save your game. Then go back to the Cargo Ship. Once on board, investigate the engine, then go up to the bridge.

Boss: Black Waltz #3
HP	1128
Weakness	Thunder
Steal	Steepled Hat, Linen Cuirass, Silver Gloves
AP	??
Win	-

Have Zidane steal, Vivi cast Thunder, Steiner use Thunder Sword, and Dagger heal the party. When he floats, stop attacking him. Vivi's Double Black Trance will be useful, if you can get it. After, enjoy the nifty FMV.

Part VII: Lindblum

Items	163 Gil, Hi-Potion, Echo Screen, Tent, Leather Plate, Silver Gloves, Leather Wrist, Bronze Vest, Steepled Hat, Ore, 127 Gil, 68 Gil, 282 Gil, 97 Gil, Glass Armlet, Ether
Key Items	Kupo Nut, Mini-Burmecia, Autograph, Moogle Suit, Master of the Hunt
Cards	Mimic, Wyerd
Monsters	Fang, Mu, Zaghnol
Moogles	Moodon, Mogki, Moonte
Shops	Alice's Item Shop, Dragoos' Weapon Shop, Torres' Synth Shop
Special Notes	None

When your party arrives in Lindblum follow the minister, Artania. Speak to the Regent. Zidane will wander into town after lunch and meet Freya, a friend from his past. The next day, Dagger and Cid will speak together. The scene then cuts to Zidane, and Mogster will give a brief tutorial about synthing. In the room to the right of Zidane's, you will find the moogle Moodon. He has a letter for you. Downstairs, you can find 163 Gil near the statue of the Bobo bird. Outside the Inn, the path leading "down" leads out of the city, which is not a good place to be just now. Across the street is the Air Cab station. Head in there to see another ATE, during which you'll acquire a Kupo Nut. You could go straight to the Theater District now, but there's plenty of shopping to be done around here, so why not do that first?

Head up from the Air Cab station. You can speak to Grandma Pickle if you like . The door next to the fish shack leads to a card player's house. You can find a Hi-Potion and an Echo Screen there. Play a few games if you wish. It is to your advantage to build a strong deck, as you will need it later in the game.

Take the left-hand exit from this screen to investigate the Church. Under the trees outside is a Tent. Inside, climb the ladder into the loft and head right to find a Leather Plate. Go back to the area where you met Grandma Pickles and take the right-hand north exit. To the left, above Grandma Potpourri, you will find the weapon shop. Check out the swords on the north wall for a bit of FF déja vu. Back in the marketplace, the northern door leads to the Item Shop. The exit on the far left will lead you to the synth shop, where you can find Silver Gloves behind the counter. Now, head back to the Air Cab station and fly to the Industrial District.

There are all sorts of items to be found here. As soon as you leave the Air Cab station, head slightly left and down for a Leather Wrist. Now go right and up the steps. You'll find the little café Zidane went to before, except that this time, it's sans Freya. Outside, to the right of the pub entrance, you can find a Bronze Vest. Head north and into the house to get a Mimic Card and a Steepled Hat from the loft. Now it's time to head to the Theater District; however, you may wish to drop by the Inn in the Business District to save with Moodon.

Nearly everyone in the Theater District plays cards, so you can certainly build up your deck in this area. Check the house to the right for an Ore, and the bushes just outside it for 127 Gil. Head down the steps at the far left. The big building here is the Tantalus Headquarters, but bypass it for the moment and go down the stairs to the theater. Lowell, the superstar, will run from his adoring fans. Trail him back to the house where you found the Ore and speak to him to get his Autograph. Search the rest of the room to get the Moogle Suit. Now head to Tantalus. You'll see an ATE. After you talk to Lucella and Bunce, raid the chests for 68 Gil, 282 Gil, and 97 Gil. Climb the ladder and examine the bed to pick up the Mini-Burmecia.

Now it's time to go to the castle itself. When you reach the room with the fountain, head up the stairs on the right and into the first door, where you will find a Glass Armlet, Ether, and Mogki. Speak to Mogki to get a letter for Atla. Go back to the room with the fountain, where you will hear Dagger's voice. Attempt to leave by the lower exit, and the guards will stop you from getting on the lift. Go back toward the guest room, but instead go down the stairs outside it and speak to the sleepy guard on the couch. You'll get his uniform. Go back to the lift and ride it to the upper level. Head left and go around the engine and up the stairs. There's a nice little scene--a series of them, actually. Look around with the telescope when given the chance; it will mark a few locations on the map for your later use.

In preparation for the hunt, equip Zidane with his best weapon (probably The Ogre) and the Beast Killer ability. Get onto the Air Cab and travel from district to district, kicking ass as you go. The bar at the top of the screen will keep track of who's winning. No matter who wins, you will get the Master of the Hunt award. The other prizes are as follows:

Prizes for the Festival of the Hunt
Winner	Prize
Freya	Coral Ring
Vivi	Theater Ship card
Zidane	5,000 Gil

Afterward, the party receives some bad news. Make sure you're all stocked up before you leave. Then take the castle lift to the Base Level. Take the right car to get to the Serpent's Gate, where you can find a Wyerd Card. Then take the left car to the Dragon's Gate. Speak to Moonte and save. There's also a merchant nearby who is willing to sell to your party.

Part VIII: Qu's Marsh and Chocobo's Forest

Items	Ether
Key Items	Moccha Coffee
Cards	None
Monsters	Serpion, Ladybug, Ironite, Vice, Hedgehog Pie, Axolotl, Gigan Toad
Moogles	Mene
Shops	None
Blue Magic	Aqua Breath, Mighty Guard, Pumpkin Head, Angel's Snack, Frog Drop, Vanish
Special Notes	This is your chance to begin the very, very lucrative Chocobo Hot & Cold sidequest. Also, there's a recovery spring nearby where you can restore your party's HP and MP, making this a good place to level up before the next difficult dungeon.

Enter the gourd-shaped marsh north of Lindblum and head through the first screen. Pause to speak to the moogles if you wish, then head into the high grass. Catch a frog by walking up to it and pressing X. Present it to the creature in pink. Agree to let Quina join your party. It is to your advantage to pause and catch some frogs here, as the number of frogs you have caught will affect the power of his/her Frog Drop spell. For best results, leave one male and one female frog in the pond, as well as the Golden Frog if it's there. This will let the pond repopulate faster. You also acquire nice little prizes for catching the frogs. Both types of enemies in this area can be Eaten to teach Quina Blue Magic, so be sure to start building his/her abilities.

Due east of Qu's Marsh, there is a small round forest. This is Chocobo's Forest. Here, you can begin to play the intensely addictive and very useful Chocobo Hot & Cold game. Eventually this game allows you to acquire many very powerful weapons, pieces of armour, cards, and other nifty things, so it's well worth your time and money. When you're finished playing with Choco, head to South Gate.

In South Gate, you'll find an Ether and the Moccha Coffee. Since there is a recovery spring here, you may wish to level up in the area, using the spring to recover. There is plenty of Blue Magic for Quina to learn. At this point, my characters were around level 15, to give you a reference point.

Part IX: Gizamaluke's Grotto

Items	Bronze Vest, Mythril Gloves, Magus Hat
Key Items	Gizamaluke Bell, Holy Bell
Cards	None
Monsters	Black Mage, Hornet, Skeleton, Lamia
Moogles	Mogmi, Moguta
Shops	None
Blue Magic	Pumpkin Head, Vanish, Lv3 Def-Less
Special Notes	The Hornet enemies in this area will frequently cause the status condition Berserk.

Due north of Qu's Marsh is Gizamaluke's Grotto. Once inside, go to the right and speak to the dying Burmecian soldier, who will give you a Gizamaluke Bell. Go left and ring the bell at the door. The bell will open the door, then shatter.

In the next room, you'll encounter Zorn, Thorn, and some Black Mages. You will fight the Black Mages, after which Zorn and Thorn will run away. Head up and fight more Black Mages, for which you will receive another Gizamaluke Bell. Go up the stairs and use the bell on the left-hand door, the small one. Run around this path and speak to the Burmecian Soldier, who will give you yet another Gizamaluke Bell. On your way back, pause at the corner to pick up a Bronze Vest. Use the bell to open the lower right-hand door.

As you circle around the staircase in this next room, watch carefully for the ! icon to pick up Mythril Gloves for Freya and a Magus Hat for Vivi. Walk up to the large bell, where you will encounter a frantic moogle. Give her the Kupo Nut. Take the Gizamaluke Bell from the treasure chest, and follow them through the right-hand door. Speak to Mogmi to rest and save your game. Speak to Moguta and agree that you like Kupo Nuts. As you start to leave, he will stop you, and give you the Holy Bell. Go back to where you rescued him and through the last door.

Boss: Gizamaluke
HP	3175
Weakness	Thunder
Steal	Ice Staff, Magus Hat, Elixir
AP	5
Win	Tent

Start this fight out by having Zidane use Soul Blade to blind Gizamaluke. Then he should put all his focus into stealing, as this boss has some really nice items. Vivi should Focus to raise his magic power, then cast lots of Thunder. Have Freya Jump continuously, and use Quina to administer Potions to the others. You might also wish to have him/her cast Mighty Guard to protect against the boss's powerful attacks.

Part X: Grand Citadel South Gate

Items	Multina Racket, Potion
Key Items	Gate Pass
Cards	None
Monsters	None
Moogles	Grimo
Shops	Bohden Station Medicine Shop
Special Notes	None

Immediately to the left as Steiner enters, you will find a chest containing a Multina Racket. Speak to the worker at the far left, then speak to the engineer. Answer when he addresses you. Speak to Part-Time Worker Mary and console her. Then head for the alley. You will be stopped and given the Gate Pass. You cannot get to the treasure chest atop the wagon at this time, but never fear, you will be back later.

Head into the alley and get Dagger out of the pickle bag. Make sure you update her equipment immediately. Speak to Grimo, who would like you to carry a letter. The chest near him contains a Potion. Get on the cable car and choose to depart, then pick a seat.

Part XI: Burmecia, Realm of Eternal Rain

Items	Tent (x2), Hi-Potion, Potion, Soft (x2), Germinas Boots, Ether, Phoenix Down, Mythril Spear, Lightning Staff
Key Items	Cancer Stellazio, Protection Bell, Kupo Nut
Cards	None
Monsters	Magic Vice, Black Mage, Ironite, Mimic, Basilisk
Moogles	Atla, Stiltzkin
Shops	Atla's Mogshop
Blue Magic	Pumpkin Head, Angel's Snack, Magic Hammer
Special Notes	Many enemies in this area use Petrify or Gradual Petrify attacks. Be prepared!

After you leave Gizamaluke's Grotto, pop into North Gate for a Hi-Potion and a Tent. Once back on the plains, look for a large desert featuring an even larger tornado. There are chocobo tracks in the area, not to mention one of the Chocograph treasures, Healing Shore.

Keep close to the mountains and you'll reach your next destination: Burmecia. Once inside the city, check the overturned cart to the right for the Cancer Stellazio. Head north. You will encounter Zorn, Thorn, and some Black Mages. Go through the door to the left.

Immediately to the right is a Soft. To the left there is a Potion. Head up the steps. There is a large gap. Go back out to the courtyard and up the stairs to the right. Behind the staircase is a Soft. The treasure chest at the end of the balcony contains a Mimic enemy. Kill off the Magic Vice it calls as quickly as possible, because the Magic Vice will steal from you. After defeating the Mimic, head through the door and continue straight across the terrace. The balcony will fall if you attempt to run to the treasure chest; instead, WALK across to get Germinas Boots. The balcony will topple on your way back. Head back down into the courtyard and re-enter on the left side. Move across the newly restored balcony and fight the Mimic in that treasure chest, then continue through the door.

You should be in what appears to be a young child's room. Exit to the right and jump across the balcony. Speak to the Burmecian soldier to your right, then poke around the bed for a Protection Bell. There is an Ether behind the bookcase on the left. Go back out to the balcony, down and around, then up the stairs to the right-hand door. Go out to the upper courtyard and ring the bell to open the door. Go through the central door on the lower level and rescue the Burmecians. Go up the stairs and cross the balcony to the left-hand doorway. The chests to the right contain Phoenix Down and a Tent. The treasure chest on the far right contains a Mimic. Go through the doors. The left hand door will lead to a Mythril Spear for Freya.

Back outside, head through the right-hand door to find the moogle Atla. She runs a Mogshop and you should have a letter for her. If you deliver it as you were asked, you should get a Kupo Nut. In the chest behind her you'll find a Lightning Staff. You'll probably wish to purchase the items Stiltzkin has; they're good ones. Head out and along the path. When you're given the option, choose to leave Freya alone. A lengthy scene will follow.

Boss: Beatrix
HP	3630
Weakness	None
Steal	chain Plate, Mythril Sword, Phoenix Down
AP	?
Win	None

Have Quina cast Mighty Guard, and Freya use Reis's Wind. Have Zidane steal and focus on healing your party. You are not going to win this fight no matter how you try, so just try to keep your group alive long enough to pick up the better items that Beatrix has. She is going to target Vivi, so your main effort will be to keep him alive. After a while she'll use Stock Break on your party, reducing everyone's HP to 1. The battle ends, and a few more things will go on before you see the screen telling you to insert Disc Two.

Disc Two

Part I: Summit Station/Quan's Dwelling

Items	Phoenix Down, Elixir, 1610 Gil, Ether (x3)
Key Items	Scorpio Stellazio
Cards	None
Monsters	Ghost, Mandragora, Carve Spider, Trick Sparrow, Ghost (Friendly)
Moogles	Nazna
Shops	Summit Station Shop, Vega Item Shop
Special Notes	This section covers all the small extras between Summit Station and entering Treno.

Pause to speak to the cable car enthusiast, as his information will help you answer Ragtimer's quizzes. Then head into the station. There is a Phoenix Down near the entrance. Poke around a little and you will encounter some familiar faces. Before you get Dagger involved in the altercation between Steiner, Marcus, and Cinna, pause to speak to Nazna the moogle. You should have a letter for him. He also has a letter for you to deliver. The counter at the south end of the room is an Item Shop. Talk to Steiner, who is, naturally, having fits. Follow Marcus into the car and speak to him.

Boss: Black Waltz #3
HP	1292
Weakness	None
Steal	Lightning Staff, Steepled Hat
AP	5
Win	None

Marcus should steal. Dagger should cast Protect and Cure, while Steiner attacks. Marcus can attack as well.

Once in South Gate, North Station, you can drop by Vega Item Shop, run by Part-Time Worker Mary. Proceed onward and you will find a fork in the road. The left-hand path will lead you back to Dali, where there's not much to find except an Elixir in the cornfield. Take the right-hand path to continue toward Treno. Hop over the gap on the bridge and check the chest below you for 1610 Gil. Keep going right.

You could head straight to Treno, but there are a few other things to do in between. Keep going past the city and through the forest beyond to reach Quan's Dwelling. You can encounter the Friendly Ghost enemy in these forests. He'll ask for an Ore. If you give it to him, you'll get 10 AP and a Hi-Potion. Not a bad exchange.

Inside Quan's Dwelling, go along the path and duck behind the large central column. Slide down the rope to get the Scorpio Stellazio and an Ether. Climb back up and check the treasure chest to the right and down to get another Ether. Go through the door at the back of this cave and climb the ladder for one last Ether. You may check outside and investigate the clock if you wish. Then, head for Treno.

Part II: Dark City Treno

Items	Mythril Dagger, Power Belt, 1 Gil
Key Items	Gemini Stellazio, Taurus Stellazio, Supersoft
Cards	Tonberry Card, Yeti Card
Monsters	Griffin
Moogles	Mogrich
Shops	Treno Weapon & Armor Shop, Treno Item Shop, Treno Synthesis Shop
Special Notes	None

Save outside the city. I suggest that throughout this area, you view the ATEs when given the opportunity. You can learn a lot. Once inside, investigate the fountain at the left. Keep throwing in Gil (you have to do so 13 times) and you will receive the Gemini Stellazio. Head down the stairs next to the fountain and go down the ramp where Dagger was. Enter the building to the left and speak to the four-armed man to get a Power Belt. Continue left to reach the Synth Shop. Pause at the ! Icon to listen to the nobles. Leave the building and follow the path to the north. Queen Stella will give you Gil and Items for the Stellazio coins, of which you should have four. You will find one more Stellazio in Treno, so don't forget to return and give it to her. There is a chart of Stellazio and the prize you get below.

Stellazio Prize Chart
1st Coin	1,000 Gil
2nd Coin	Phoenix Pinion
3rd Coin	2,000 Gil
4th Coin	Blood Sword
5th Coin	5,000 Gil
6th Coin	Elixir
7th Coin	10,000 Gil
8th Coin	Black Belt
9th Coin	20,000 Gil
10th Coin	Rosetta Ring
11th Coin	30,000 Gil
12th Coin	Robe of Lords
13th Coin	Hammer

Go back to the previous screen (Café Carta) and leave by the south path. This area is the entrance to the Card Stadium. I suggest moving on to the next screen and saving with Mogrich before you play any card games. Speak to the Usher at the stadium to learn about Tetra Master. There are some great cards to win here. Save often if you're doing well; you don't want to lose wonderful new cards with an "ooops!"

When you're done at the card stadium, return to the screen where you met Mogrich. The house behind him offers an optional battle, with quite nifty rewards. If you are interested in fighting this creature, equip Steiner with the Blood Sword (which you should have gotten from Queen Stella in exchange for your fourth Stellazio coin) and the HP+10% Support Ability. If you're level 14-17, you're all set. Speak to the old woman behind the counter; she runs the Weapon Shop. Tell her you want to fight the monster. The Blood Sword will keep Steiner alive and damage the Griffin quite nicely. You win a Tonberry Card for defeating it.

Leave the ship and take the north path to reach the Auction house. You can buy several nifty items here, and resell them for extra Gil around Café Carta. The chart for how much you can sell the items for is below. You can decline most people's first offer to get a better offer.

Auction Item Resale Chart
Item	Buyer	First Offer	Second Offer
Doga's Artifact	Man in Treno Synth Shop	10,000	N/A
Une's Mirror	Noble in Café Carta	12,000	15,000
Griffin's Heart	Adventurer outside Café Carta	8,000	10,000
Rat Tail*	Adventurer outside Café Carta	20,000	25,000
Magical Fingertip**	Old Man in Daguerreo	Excalibur	N/A

*You cannot sell the Rat Tail to the adventurer unless you have previously sold her the Griffin's Heart.
**The Magical Fingertip is not available until Disc 4.

Now head back to the screen where Mogrich is hanging out and go up the stairs at the right. Follow the path south. In the next screen, climb down the ladder on the right to get the Yeti Card and 1 Gil. Walk behind the counter of the Item Shop to get the Taurus Stellazio. Take it to Stella now. Finish up any business you have in the Auction House. If you have the cash, I recommend picking up the Pearl Rouge item. It's cheaper and easier to buy it here than to find and synth the components, especially as one component--Moonstone--is really rare.

When you're ready, go back to the screen with the Item Shop, and stay at the Inn. Go down the stairs in the Inn and speak to Marcus. Then speak to Baku. Some scenes will follow. Afterward, leave the inn and walk down. You will be in the same place where you entered Treno. Walk to the left. In the next screen, go all the way left. The treasure chest contains a Mythril Dagger. Head into the tower and speak to Dr. Tot to learn about Gaia. Pop down the ladder he reveals.

Part III: Gargan Roo

Items	Chain Plate, Phoenix Down
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Dragonfly, Crawler
Moogles	Mochos
Shops	None
Special Notes	None

The moogle Mochos is directly in front of you when you enter Gargan Roo. You should have a letter for him. Wander off to the left, where you will find a Chain Plate in a treasure chest. There's also a Phoenix Down. Hit the switch and return to the area where you left Dr. Tot. Take the right-hand path and head right. Follow Dr. Tot's instructions to catch the Gargant.

Boss: Ralvurahva
HP	2296
Weakness	None
Steal	Bone Wrist, Mythril Fork
AP	None
Win	None

Dagger should cast Protect on everyone and then focus on curing the party, renewing the Protect spell when necessary. Marcus should attempt to Steal the boss's items, and Steiner can simply attack. An interesting scene follows the conclusion of this battle.

Part IV: Cleyra Trunk

Items	Phoenix Down, Ice Staff, Flame Staff, Magician Shoes, Ether, Tent, Needle Fork, Kupo Nut, Desert Boots, Remedy, Mythril Vest, Mythril Gloves, 980 Gil, Potion, Elixir, Hi-Potion, Gysahl Greens
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Dragonfly, Sand Golem, Carrion Worm, Zuu
Moogles	Monev
Shops	None
Blue Magic	Matra Magic, White Wind, Auto-Life
Special Notes	Attack the Sand Golem enemies until they melt, then attack the red core. It is particularly weak against Ice spells, but attacking it while the Sand Golem is upright will result in a brutal counterattack. When tapping X to get out of a sinkhole, press the analog stick in the direction opposite of where you want to land. This will ensure that you jump out to the right place.

From Burmecia, head toward the large whirling sandstorm to reach Cleyra. Pause to update your equipment. Enter the sandstorm and go forward to the top of the screen. Head right and pull the lever to open the seal. In the next area, check to the right for a Phoenix Down before continuing upward. The next screen yields an Ice Staff if you check the north side of the tree. Check just to the left of the sandpit at the bottom for Magician Shoes. Exit to the right and go up the path.

Retrieve the Ether from the chest and head down. Have Zidane put his hand into the hole. Head back out and down the path. Climb up the tree roots and go through the trunk to the left. In this new room, check the left side of the screen for a Needle Fork. Go up the slope. To the right is a Tent. Go left to save with Monev. You have a letter for him. He'll give you a Kupo Nut for delivery if you don't already have one in your inventory.

Head up into the next screen. Take the upper path to get a Flame Staff. The right-hand path leads to the next area. Cross the bridge. You'll find yourself in a large cavern full of pillars. Behind the central pillar you will find Desert Boots. Head left and up from there to get a Mythril Vest. To the right is a Remedy. Now head through the cave way at the back to acquire Mythril Gloves. Pull the switch on the pulley to make a chest available elsewhere. Go back to the room with the pillars and take left-hand exit to get a Potion. Veer up the right branch of the path to pick up an Elixir. Go back to the main path and continue left. If you get caught in one of the sinkholes, press X repeatedly to get out. Pick up the Hi-Potion and 900 Gil contained in the chests near the sinkholes, then find the ladder to the Cleyra settlement. Behind it is a hidden Gysahl Greens. Climb the ladder to reach the settlement.

Part V: Cleyra Settlement

Items	970 Gil, Phoenix Pinion (x3), Remedy (x2), Ether (x2), Ore, Thunder Gloves, Mythril Vest, Gysahl Greens, Echo Screen, 1250 Gil, Yellow Scarf, Elixir, Phoenix Down, Emerald
Key Items	None
Cards	Nymph Card, Zuu Card
Monsters	Type B, Alexandrian Soldier
Moogles	Mopli, Stiltzkin, Serino
Shops	Burmecian Soldier Dan's Weapons & Armor Shop, Star Maiden Nina's Medicine Shop

Allow Kildea to show you around Cleyra. You'll need to get familiar with this town quickly. After the tour, you'll be back at the front gate. Enter the area to the right to pick up 970 Gil. Go back to the entrance and up the stairs. On the platform in the middle, you can find a Phoenix Pinion to the right. Continue up the stairs, taking the right-hand path. At the top of the stairs you can find an Ore to the right. Go up the steps to the Market Square and speak to Burmecian Soldier Dan to peruse his weapon shop. Climb halfway up the stairs to the right and search the bushes for a Remedy.

Head into the Inn (behind Dan) and check to the left for an Echo Screen. Go all the way to the right for 1250 Gil. Upstairs, check by the right-hand bed for an Ether. Talk to Mopli to save. He has a letter from Ruby. Leave the Inn and go down the stairs, then take the left-hand path. Check next to the steps in the next area for Thunder Gloves, then head up.

Star Maiden Nina runs an Item Shop in this area. Check to the right for a Phoenix Pinion. The lower center path leads back to the Market Square. Go up the right-hand stairs. To the right is an observatory. Go up the bridge to reach the cathedral. There are Gysahl Greens in the grass outside. Enter the Cathedral and check to the immediate left to find a Yellow Scarf. Speak to the guards.

Before going to the Inn, go back down to the entrance of the settlement and go into the sandy area at the right to retrieve a Silk Robe and Magician Shoes. Return to the settlement. Go into the Inn and save with Mopli. You might wish to update your equipment at this time--equip as many characters with Desert Boots as you can--then go outside and speak to Dan. Follow him down to the settlement entrance.

Boss: Antlion
HP	2938
Weakness	Wind
Steal	Gold Helm, Mythril Vest, Annoyntment
AP	5
Win	Ether, Annoyntment

DO NOT use physical attacks against this boss. Have Freya cast Reis's Wind on her first turn, and renew it whenever necessary. Quina should use White Wind to heal the party. When the Antlion unleashes its Sandstorm attack, have Quina cast Pumpkin Head and then have Freya renew Reis's Wind. Zidane should steal and use Potions on the rest of the group. Meanwhile, have Vivi cast Blizzara repeatedly. This will be particularly effective if he has the Ice Staff equipped. When Freya isn't needed to use Reis's Wind, have her cast Lancer.

After this battle, there will be a series of scenes. Choose whatever you like during the conversations, as it doesn't particularly matter. Then take Freya up to the Cathedral. Speak to the High Priest, who will give you an Emerald. Head down to the entrance, but pause to save with Mopli. Stiltzkin is visiting, and you can pick up a Hi-Potion, Ether, and Phoenix Pinion from him for 444 Gil. Mopli has a new letter from Monev, if you're interested.

At any rate, head down to the entrance of the settlement. Once your party regroups, pause to re-equip everyone. Head down the trunk. You will fight Alexandrian soldiers, who are a pretty easy bunch to take care of. Equip the Man Eater ability on Zidane and Freya to make it go faster. When you get to the bridge, agree that there weren't enough soldiers. Then run back to Cleyra. Fight the Black Mage at the entrance. Head left and talk to Mopli. He has a letter. Make sure you save. As you run up the stairs, the Cleyrans will run in. Fight the Alexandrians and the Black Mage.

Tell the first group of people to head right. By the Inn, you will find the refugee Learie. Send her left, and fight the ensuing battle. Then send her right. At the cathedral, talk to the survivors. You'll get a Nymph Card, Elixir, Zuu Card, Ether, Phoenix Pinion, Remedy, and Phoenix Down if you saved everyone. Rest and save, and remember to update your equipment.

Boss: General Beatrix
HP	4736
Weakness	Ice
Steal	Ice Brand, Thunder Gloves, Phoenix Down
AP	N/A
Win	None

Have Vivi immediately cast Slow, and Freya use Reis's Wind. Quina should use Mighty Guard, if possible. Have Zidane focus on stealing the very nice items that the good general is carrying. As before, she will wait until you've taken off about half of her HP before she unleashes Stock Break on your party. You'll stow away on the airship. Head up the steps and eavesdrop.

Follow Vivi. Serino will appear. Give him his letter. He will give you a letter for Moodon. Save. Then head down and use the teleporters.

Part VI: Alexandria

Items	Ice Brand, Tent
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Alexandrian Soldier, Bandersnatch, Black Mage
Moogles	Mosh
Shops	None
Special Notes	None

You start out this scene rescuing Steiner and Marcus from the cage they are in. Use momentum to swing the cage back and forth. Marcus will coach you through it. When you're free, give Steiner some strong equipment and the Man Eater and Beast Killer abilities. Don't bother with Marcus; he won't be around long enough to worry about it. Run around the balcony to the other end and climb the ladder. You may wish to fight the soldiers along the way; they might drop the Mythril Sword Card.

Marcus will split when you reach the top of the ladder, but Zidane and the others will join Steiner. From the main courtyard, head up. Keep going up the stairs, fighting guards if necessary. In the large square area, run to the southern exit and head up the circular stairs, then north. Go straight up in the next screen, and you will end up in Brahne's chamber.

Check the purple candle. Move it and go into the secret doorway. Study the timing of the moving platform and use it to get to the two chests, which contain a Tent and an Ice Brand. Go down the spiral stairs and take the north exit.

Boss: Zorn and Thorn
HP	Zorn: 4896, Thorn: 2984
Weakness	Ice
Steal	Zorn: Mythril Armlet, Mythril Armor; Thorn: Stardust Rod, Partisan
AP	0
Win	None

Have Freya cast Reis's Wind immediately. Zidane should steal, and Steiner should attack with the Blizzara Sword. Have Vivi cast Slow on the twins, then have him cast Blizzara repeatedly. When the twins use Flare Power and Meteor Power, use a physical attack on the appropriate one to negate it. They have excellent items to steal. After the battle, retrieve Dagger and pause to speak to Mosh. He has a new letter from Kupo. Recover your party with a Tent and save. Go back up to the Queen's chamber.

Boss: Beatrix
HP	5709
Weakness	Ice
Steal	Survival Vest, Ice Brand, Phoenix Down
AP	0
Win	None

Vivi should cast Slow, then attack with Blizzara. Freya should use Reis's Wind, and then Jump or simply use physical attacks. Zidane should steal the nice items that the lovely General is carrying, while Steiner should use the Blizzara Sword. After this battle, several things will occur.

Go back down the stairs, where you will fight a Black Mage. When controlling Beatrix and Freya, have Beatrix use Climhazzard to make your fights go faster. The Bandersnatch enemies are also weak against Fire. Make sure you drop by the chapel again, because Mosh has a letter for you to deliver. You might also wish to rest and save. Then head down to where Dagger, Steiner, and Marcus were captured before. You'll ride the Gargant.

Boss: Ralvuimago
HP	3352
Weakness	Ice
Steal	Oak Staff, Adaman Vest, Phoenix Down
AP	7
Win	Ether

Have Dagger cast Shell and Protect, then focus on healing the party and renewing the defensive spells when necessary. Vivi should cast Slow and then attack with Blizzara, while Steiner uses the Blizzara Sword. As always, have Zidane steal repeatedly, as this boss has some nifty items.

Part VII: Pinnacle Rocks

Items	The Ogre, Mythril Vest, Mythril Armlet, Peridot
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Sand Scorpion, Zaghnol, Seeker Bat
Moogles	Monty
Shops	None
Special Notes	None

Ramuh has a challenge for our princess: piece together a story for him. After he vanishes, you'll find yourself on a screen with, among other things, a moogle. First, head back to the screen you just came from to get the first piece, Historian's Explanation (Hero):

Although Joseph's death was not reported to his daughter, the manner of his death speaks for itself. This is the story of a true hero.

Now head down and talk to the moogle, Monty. You have a letter for him. Rest and save if you wish. Now head up and to the left. Ramuh will appear again and give you Beginning:

Once upon a time, 33 small countries fought together against an empire. One day, a rebel troop visited a man named Joseph, who lived with his daughter. Owing a debt to the troop, he gladly accepted their plea for help. They headed for a cavern in the snow field.

Keep going and head right across the bridge. Where the ? icon appears, choose to jump down for a Mythril Armlet. Then head left. Ramuh will appear and tell you Silence:

On their way home, they fell into a trap set by a traitor. Joseph gave his life to save the troop. The troop left without telling Joseph's daughter, Nelly, about the tragedy.

Head down and toward the treasure chest. Ramuh will tell you Cooperation:

With Joseph's help, the troop defeated the adamantoise in the snowfield cavern and acquired the Goddess Bell they needed to enter the Empire's Castle.

The treasure chest contains The Ogre. Head down and run under the window in the tree (you have to sort of go behind it.) Ramuh will appear and give you Historian's Explanation (Human):

The fact that they didn't report Joseph's death to his daughter was indicative of their guilt for failing to protect him. In the end, heroes are also human.

At the far bottom of this screen is a Mythril Vest. Now head up past Monty and along the left branch to the bridge. Continue downward. Ramuh will appear, and asks you to assemble the story. The order is as follows:

1. Beginning
2. Cooperation
3. Silence
4. Human OR Hero

For assembling the story correctly, you will receive the Peridot Add-On, which teaches Dagger the Ramuh summon. Now, continue on your way to Lindblum.

Part VIII: Lindblum

Items	Ether, Phoenix Pinion, Ore, 127 Gil, 340 Gil, 262 Gil, 993 Gil
Key Items	World Map
Cards	Lindblum Card
Monsters	None
Moogles	Moodon, Moonte
Shops	Dragoos' Weapons Shop, Alice's Medicine Shop, Torres' Synthesis Shop, Dragon's Gate Merchant
Special Notes	None

Stop by the Inn, since you probably have a letter for Moodon. He has a letter from Ruby, and has a letter he'd like you to deliver to Moonte. Now head north, farther into the business district. On this screen, check at the far north end (to the left of Card Freak Gon's house) for the Lindblum Card. Speaking of the card freak, you can find an Ether and a Phoenix Pinion in his house. Continue north to the next screen to find Minister Artania. Speak to Cid, who will give you 3,000 Gil to help you prepare.

Now it's time to shop and prepare. Alice, Dragoos, and Torres are all open for business, so shop and synth. If you don't already have a Cacusha, synth one. Also, stop by the Theater District. Pop into Michael's place to find an Ore and check the bushes outside for 127 Gil. Now head down to the Tantalus hideout, where Lowell is lingering outside. If you read Ruby's letter, talk to him and convince him to take off for Alexandria. Inside the Tantalus hideout, check the chests for 340 Gil, 262 Gil, and 993 Gil.

Head back to the Business District and speak to the man who's been patiently waiting for you in the mall. Go to the Grand Castle's base level and speak to Regent Cid, who will give you the World Map. Head toward the Dragon's Gate, where the Merchant is still willing to sell your party items. You can save with Moonte, whom you should also have a letter for.

Part IX: Fossil Roo

Items	Elixir, Fairy Earrings, Ether, Lamia's Tiara, Survival Vest
Key Items:	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Serpion, Ladybug, Ironite, Vice, Hedgehog Pie, Gigan Toad, Axolotl, Armodullahan, Abomination, Griffin, Seeker Bat, Feather Circle
Moogles	Mogki, Stiltzkin, Kuppo
Shops	Mogki's Mogshop, Kuppo's Mogshop, Treasure Hunter's Shop
Blue Magic	Lv4 Holy, Aqua Breath, Mighty Guard, Pumpkin Head, Night, Angel's Snack, Frog Drop, White Wind, Vanish
Special Notes	If you missed Blue Magic on previous trips through this area, now is a good time to pick it up. Also, now is a good opportunity to continue the Chocobo Hot & Cold mini-game, if you so choose.

Head on over to Qu's Marsh. Quina is at the Frog Pond, again. Pause to catch frogs if you wish. If you want to spend some time leveling up and learning new abilities, you might wish to leave Qu's Marsh to do so, as the enemies there get rather boring and repetitive after a while.

When you're ready to continue, enter Qu's Marsh. Where you would normally enter the grass to get to the Frog Pond, head right instead, and take the path into the grass from the next screen. Quina will run off. Follow him/her to reach Fossil Roo.

Armodullahan will begin following your party almost as soon as you enter the area. You DO NOT want it to catch you! Dodge the pendulums by sticking to the UPPER side of the path in the first screen, the LOWER side in the second, and the UPPER side in the third. Pause to wait for the pendulums if you must. Having escaped Armodullahan, though, you must now face Lani.

Boss: Lani
HP	5708
Weakness	None
Steal	Coral Sword, Gladius, Ether
AP	0
Win	None

Immediately have Dagger cast Shell and Protect on herself. Thereafter, just have her cure herself repeatedly. As long as Dagger is alive, Lani will focus her attacks on her and leave the others alone. Zidane should steal, since Lani is carrying some pretty nice items. Have Vivi cast Bio, Fira, Blizzara and Thundara. Physical attacks will result in a powerful counterattack, so use Skills and magic instead.

When you're finished with the bounty hunter, return to Armodullahan's cage at the beginning of this area to pick up an Elixir. Then go back to where you fought Lani, down the steps and pick one of the large flowers to the left. Then find the ! icon and press X to raise the flower. Hop on the gargant, who will take you to a new area. Go toward the north exit. In the next area, head down and speak to Stiltzkin and Mogki. Stiltzkin has some items to sell you if you're interested, which you probably are. Read Mogki's mail, and save and use a Tent. You probably need one after the fight with Lani.

Go back up the steps and speak to the treasure hunter, who's pretty protective of his site but willing to point you to the way out. Go back down to where the moogles are and to the right. Pick a flower and find the ! icon to call the gargant. When he drops you off, take the exit above you to get Fairy Earrings. Go back, call the gargant, and head back. Go up through the doorway above the treasure hunter.

In this new area, call the gargant. After he drops you off, head right and hit the switch. Call the gargant again. He will now take a new path. Climb the steps and take the top path to get an Ether. Now take the lower path and flip Switch #2. Now, ride the Gargant back to Switch #1, turn it, and ride the gargant once more to the area above the treasure hunter. Head down to Mogki and Stiltzkin, and catch the gargant in the area to the right of them.

The gargant will drop you off by another treasure hunter, who runs a fairly nice shop. Head up the stairs and flip Switch #4. Ride the gargant again. Go down and to the right. You must climb the wall in this area. To avoid getting knocked down by the water, stay directly under the spouts. Get to the cave in the upper part of the right hand wall and speak to the treasure hunter who is digging. He will let you dig in exchange for a Potion, so take him up on his offer. Go all the way to the right and chip at the pile of boulders to free Kuppo. He runs a Mogshop and will, of course, let you rest and save. You can dig up random small treasures in this area, although it may take several tries in one area to find one.

When you get bored, return the treasure hunter's tools and take the path at the right for a Survival Vest. Then go back to the vine-covered wall. Climb to the switch at the upper-left and push it, then drop down to the bottom and take the lower right-hand exit. Call the gargant, who will carry you out of Fossil Roo.

Part X: Conde Petie

Items	2700 Gil, Phoenix Pinion, 1800 Gil
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Griffin, Cactuar, Zaghnol, Goblin Mage
Moogles	Mogmatt
Shops	Grocery Store Medicines, Goldpiler's Weapons Shop
Blue Magic	Goblin Punch, Matra Magic, 1,000 Needles, White Wind

You'll probably want to rest and save, since your party may be in rough shape from the journey through Fossil Roo. Your goal is the building set up on the high bridge, but there are a few other things to do in the area. You might want to poke around with Choco, since there is a Chocograph site or two in the area. Also, there is a Qu's Marsh, with a fresh crop of frogs for Quina. At any rate, you must circle around the area to reach the building. Once inside, there is 2700 Gil immediately behind the guard at the entrance. Head to the right, where you can meet Mogmatt. He has a letter for you to deliver to Suzuna. This area is also the Item Shop, if you need to stock up. In the corner of the stairs you will find a Phoenix Pinion. Head up the steps, where you'll find Vivi. Take the north-west exit. To your left is the Inn, where you can find 1800 Gil. Head out to the hallway again.

Now take the right-hand exit. You'll be back in the entranceway. Go right to the Grocer's and you'll find Vivi, again. After the discussion, head right twice, then out the north exit. This area is the weapon shop. Stop at the Inn and rest if you wish. Then depart and head for the large forest.

Part XI: The Black Mage Village

Items	Elixir, Gysahl Greens, Ether, 843 Gil, 2000 Gil, Black Belt
Key Items	Virgo Stellazio
Cards	None
Monsters	Zemzelett, Myconid
Moogles	Mogryo
Shops	No. 163's Medicine Shop, No. 239's Weapon & Armor Shop, Black Cat Synthesis Shop
Blue Magic	White Wind, Mighty Guard
Special Notes	The "Monsters" and "Blue Magic" listings only cover the actual journey to the Black Mage Village, not the monsters you can encounter on the nearby plains and forest. You can encounter a new Friendly Monster, the Color Ladybug, in the forest outside the Black Mage Village, in addition to the ubiquitous Ragtimer. The Color Ladybug wants 2 Ore, and will give you 20 AP and an Ether in return.

The Black Mage Village is the raised, greener section of the large forest near Conde Petie. Use X to enter. Once inside, read the signs to find your way. Remember, one of the inhabitants of Conde Petie told you that they live so deep in the forest that there are no owls. Therefore, take the direction that indicates "Where there are no owls."

In the village, the house on the left is a weapon shop, with an Elixir hidden outside. Head to the right to find the moogle Mogryo, who has a letter for Mocchi. In the building next to him, you'll find both Quina and some Gysahl Greens. Head back to the entrance screen. Head up the stairs in the center. To the right is the Item Shop, which has an Ether hidden on the left side. Across the bridge from there is the Inn, which has the Virgo Stellazio hidden on the far right side.

Head around the front of the item shop and continue on to the left. This is the synth shop, where you'll find Dagger. Climb the ladder and check the rooftop for 843 Gil. Back in the shop, there's 2000 Gil to the left of the ladder, somewhat invisible behind the Black Mage. Leave the shop and head left. After visiting the cemetery, go back to the Inn and rest. You'll see a number of scenes. In the morning, head back to Conde Petie.

Part XII: Mountain Path

Items	Remedy, Tent, Ether, Moonstone
Key Items	Blue Stone, Red Stone, Yellow Stone, Green Stone
Cards	None
Monsters	Gnoll, Ochu, Troll
Moogles	Mogmatt, Suzuna, Stiltzkin
Shops	Grocery Store Medicine Shop, Goldpiler's Weapons Shop
Special Notes	This covers both the events in Conde Petie and the subsequent journey over the Mountain Path.

Back in Conde Petie, go to the Weapon shop and attempt to leave. You will be told to speak to His Holiness. Head over to the corridor outside the Inn. Have Vivi and Quina get married as well. Then depart toward the Mountain Path, where you will meet Eiko. She knows absolutely no abilities. You might wish to start her out with the weakest armour so that she can start learning the early abilities. She'll pick them up quickly, and you can upgrade her equipment as she does so.

Once you're ready to move on, climb up the slope to your left and climb the vine. The treasure chest contains a Remedy. Go right until you find a statue, and remove the Blue Stone. Go back to where you entered the path. Head to the right until you see another vine you can climb--this time, down. Head left on the low ledge until you find another statue, containing a Red Stone. There's a treasure chest nearby with a Tent.

Return to the main path and continue to the right. You'll find the moogles Suzuna and Stiltzkin. You should have a letter for Suzuna. Stiltzkin will offer to sell you more items. Save. Climb the ladder to the left and cross the giant tree root to your right.

Boss: Hilgigars
HP	8106
Weakness	Thunder
Steal	Fairy Flute, Mythril Fork, Phoenix Down
AP	9
Win	Elixir, Tent

Have Eiko or Dagger cast Float on the party. Zidane should attempt to steal this boss's items, as usual, but the Fairy Flute is REALLY hard to get. I once had my party with Eiko constantly casting Float and Cure and Dagger and Vivi using physical attacks while Zidane just used Steal over and over again, and I managed to kill the boss before I could steal the flute. If you can steal it, good for you, but don't drive yourself up a wall if you can't. At any rate, have Dagger summon Ramuh and Vivi cast Bio or Thundara.

After the battle, check the statue for a Yellow Stone. Head to the right and take the bottom path to find the Green Stone and an Ether. Return to where Suzuna was and take the right-hand path. Place the four stones in the statue here to get a Moonstone. Go back to the fork in in the road and continue right until you leave the Mountain Path area.

Part XIII: Madain Sari

Items	Tent, Ore, Phoenix Pinion
Key Items	Libra Stellazio, Kirman Coffee
Cards	None
Monsters	Blazer Beetle, Goblin Mage, Troll, Yeti, Green Yeti (Friendly)
Moogles	Morrison, Chimomo, Mocha, Mimoza, Momatose
Shops	Morrison's Mogshop
Blue Magic	Limit Glove, Pumpkin Head, Goblin Punch, Vanish
Special Notes	The enemy and Blue Magic lists cover the area outside Madain Sari. You can also encounter the Ragtimer in the forests nearby. The Green Yeti is actually found in the larger of the two forests outside the village, and wants 2 Ore in return for 20 AP and an Elixir.

Follow Eiko into the village and watch a series of scenes. Afterward, check to the left of where Dagger is standing for a Tent. Examine the ruined fountain nearby for the Libra Stellazio. Take the north exit. Morrison will refuse to let you into the house, but will ask you to go to the Eidolon Wall.

To make sure Eiko's cooking succeeds, send Chimomo fishing and have Mocha go get some potatoes. Make enough for eleven people, don't add an oglop, and accept Quina's help. When back in control of Zidane, head for Eiko's house, and follow Morrison to the Eidolon Wall. Dagger is near the entrance of the village. Speak to her and Morrison at the Eidolon wall, then head back to Eiko's house and enjoy the meal.

Afterward, snag the Ore and Phoenix Pinion from the nearby chests, and carry the pot to the kitchen for Eiko. On her patio, you can find Kirman Coffee. Head back in and agree to rest. There will be a short scene between Zidane and Vivi. Eiko will join your party in the morning. If you need to restock, re-enter the village and speak to Morrison. Now head for the mountain path.

Part XIV: Iifa Tree

Items	Ruby, Phoenix Down, Hi-Potion, Ether, Lamia's Flute, Remedy, Elixir, Brigandine
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Nymph, Blazer Beetle, Troll, Goblin Mage, Yeti, Stroper, Myconid, Zombie, Dracozombie, Green Nymph (Friendly)
Moogles	Mocchi
Shops	None
Special Notes	The Monsters list covers the area outside Madain Sari and the area outside the Iifa Tree as well as the Iifa Tree itself. The Ragtimer Mouse can be found in the forest outside the Tree, as can the Green Nymph, who wants 3 Ore in exchange for 30 AP and an Emerald.

Take the Mountain Path to reach the Iifa Tree. When you reach the crossroads on the path, take the north exit to get there. The forest outside the Iifa Tree is home to Ragtimer and the Green Nymph friendly monster. You may wish to spend some time leveling up and teaching Eiko some extra abilities. When you're ready, enter the Iifa Tree and you will see a short scene. You may poke the barrier as many times as you wish. When you're bored with that, body-slam it and then ask Eiko. You will acquire a Ruby. Proceed.

Wind your way along the roots. The mushroom-like Myconid enemies can cast Darkness on your entire party with a single attack, so you may wish to equip Bright Eyes to some of your characters. Also, the Stroper enemies can cause Petrify and Gradual Petrify, so perhaps the Jelly ability is in order. The Stropers also have plenty to steal. At any rate, after navigating the roots, you'll find the moogle Mocchi, whom you probably have a letter for.

Moving on, you should find a large circular platform. Choose to stand on it. This screen has nothing of interest. Next, take the lower-right path and pull the switch to retrieve a treasure chest containing a Phoenix Down. Head straight down for a Hi-Potion. In the next screen, slip into a niche on the right for an Ether. Then head slightly down and left for a Lamia's Flute and a Remedy. Use the south exit to move on. You will fight a few battles on the way down, and see quite a bit of conversation.

After the platform stops, pause to speak to Dagger, then head down the steps. Check the area around the bottom of the steps for an Elixir. Slightly behind the trunk on the lower platform is a Brigandine, which you should immediately equip to Zidane. Speak to Vivi, then talk to Eiko and agree to watch the water with her. Then examine the far-left edge of the platform.

Boss: Soulcage
HP	9765
Weakness	None
Steal	Brigandine, Magician Cloak, Oak Staff
AP	9
Win	Ether, Phoenix Pinion

Zidane should steal. Eiko can either summon Carbuncle, or share healing duties with Dagger. Have Vivi use Bio, but DON'T cast Fire. It will result in a rather brutal attack against your party. If anyone gets K.O.'ed, have Eiko summon Phoenix to revive the character and damage the boss. If Zidane Trances, use Scoop Art or Stellar Circle 5 a few times. You don't really NEED anything stronger, and will just throw away MP. Enjoy the FMV. After the battle, head back to Madain Sari.

Part XV: Madain Sari Revisited

Items	Survival Vest, Phoenix Down, Exploda, Elixir
Key Items	Memory Earring
Cards	None
Monsters	See previous section on Madain Sari
Moogles	Chimomo, Momatose, Morrison, Mimoza, Mocha
Shops	Morrison's Mogshop
Special Notes	None

Save outside the village. Head for Eiko's house and out to the patio, then down and through the doorway. After the scenes and before you go rescue Eiko, search the small room for a Survival Vest and Phoenix Down. Check Zidane's abilities and equip him with High Tide, Man Eater, and Auto-Potion. If he has the Rune Tooth equipped, then also give him Add Status. Head for the Eidolon Wall and peek inside. The moogles will give you Exploda and an Elixir. Have Morrison heal you, then go in to save Eiko.

Boss: Scarlet Hair
HP	8985
Weakness	None
Steal	Poison Knuckles, Ether
AP	9
Win	Tent

Wait until your opponent returns to the center of the area and says "Here I go!" before attacking him. The items he carries are very easy pickings, and quite worthwhile. Zidane should trance at some point. Use his strongest Dyne ability, whatever that happens to be. Your opponent will retreat after you cause him enough damage.

After the battle, head for Eiko's house and speak to Momatose. Rest. In the morning, go out on the patio and down to the small room below. Speak to Eiko and agree to let her come with you. You'll get the Memory Earring. Leave Eiko's house and you will hear Dagger singing. Poke around until the ! icon appears. Prepare for sap and memories.

As you're leaving the village, Amarant will join your party. You'll then have to select your party members. I recommend Eiko and Amarant, as both of them have a number of abilities to learn. You might also wish to keep Vivi around. You may want to spend some time leveling up before returning to the Iifa Tree. Speak to Morrison if you wish to switch party members.

Part XVI: Iifa Tree Part Two

Items	Aquamarine
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Stroper, Myconid, Mistodon
Moogles	Mocchi
Shops	None
Special Notes	You'll probably want to consider equipping everyone in your party with the Insomniac ability.

After Kuja appears, head into the Iifa Tree. You'll be given a couple of chances to change your party. I typically choose Zidane, Dagger, Eiko and Amarant. You will fight a series of simple battles and see a few scenes.

You must run down a long tree root after Dagger, pursued by some enemies. Mocchi is at the very top of the root, and you can save your game with him. Then run down the root to avoid as many battles as possible. At the bottom, Dagger will receive an Aquamarine. Enjoy the ensuing scenes.

Disc Three

Part I: Alexandria

Items	Opal, Topaz, Amethyst, Phoenix Pinion (x3), 3927 Gil, Ether, Lapis Lazuli
Key Items	Leo Stellazio, Athlete Queen
Cards	Ironite, Fang, Goblin, Shiva, Ramuh
Monsters	None
Moogles	Mosh, Kupo, Stiltzkin
Shops	Doug's Item Shop, Alexandria Weapon Supply, Alchemist's Synthesis Shop
Special Notes	There are a number of mini-games to take part in as Vivi, and one more as Zidane. Be sure you've finished them all before you advance to the next stage, because many of them are a one-time-only opportunity.

After a couple of scenes, you'll control Vivi. Before speaking to Zidane, why not explore? There are tons of mini-games to play, and you won't be able to access most of them after Vivi rejoins Zidane. First, remember Ilia's grandmother? The woman who loves to sew? Head for her house (to the right from the tavern) and speak to Hippaul and Hippolady. Hippaul has some very nice cards for you to win if you choose to play him, and there's also a mini-game here. Hippolady wants you to help Hippaul get in shape. For every race Vivi wins, Hippaul gains a level. For every ten levels he gains, Hippolady will give Vivi a rare card. The chart of levels and cards is below.

Prizes for Racing Hippaul
Hippaul's Level	Prize
10	Wyerd Card
20	Carrion Worm Card
30	Tantarian Card
40	Armstrong Card
50	Ribbon Card
60	Nova Dragon Card
70	Genji Card
80	Athlete Queen Key Item

Please note that this mini-game is ONLY available now. You cannot play it after Vivi rejoins Zidane. It's a very easy mini-game up until about level 40. Then it gets much tougher. Frankly, it is my personal opinion that the game simply isn't worth it after level 60. The Genji Card is easier to get playing the jump-rope mini-game, at least for me. You'll have to decide if the Athlete Queen key item is worth it to you.

When you're done playing this mini-game, head for the alley where you met Puck, back at the beginning of the game. Talk to Blank and Marcus, and agree to see the play with them. Scenes will ensue, during which you get an Opal, Topaz, and Amethyst. You'll learn a little bit about Dagger's past.

As Eiko, you can save with Mosh if you like. The mix-up with the letter is amusing, but sweet. When Vivi joins Zidane, head to the bell tower and find your old friend Kupo. You should have a letter for him, and Stiltzkin is nearby, willing to sell you some more items. Your next destination is the castle, but there is one more mini-game you can play before doing that. Head to the weapons shop, where Benero, Zenero, and Genero are running a little gambling game. The maximum you can win at this game is 26,500 Gil, so be advised.

When you get bored with mini-games, make sure you've picked up the nice new equipment from the weapon, item, and synth shops before heading toward the castle. After Freya and Amarant's little tiff, check the area for 3927 Gil and a Phoenix Pinion. Ride the boat to the castle, and search the dock there for an Ether, Phoenix Pinion, and Lapis Lazuli. Take the left-hand path and check in the dungeon for a Phoenix Pinion, then go on to the next room and search for the Leo Stellazio. Return to the dock and head up. Your party will have an audience with Dagger. Be prepared for sap and humour. Ultimately, the party will decide to go to Treno and attend the card tournament.

Part II: Treno

Items	Cacusha, Elixir, 30,000 Gil, Rebirth Ring
Key Items	Mini-Brahne, Mayor's Key, Burman Coffee
Cards	Anything you win in the Card Tournament
Monsters	Carve Spider, Python, Brown Mu (Friendly), Catoblepas (Knight's House), Ghost, Mandragora, Trick Sparrow
Moogles	Gumo, Mogrich
Shops	Treno Slums Medicine Shop, Alchemist's Synthesis Shop, Knight's Residence Armory Shop
Special Notes	If you do not leave Treno during the Card Tournament to visit Dali, you cannot complete the side-quest for Morrid's Coffee.

Send Vivi home and have Zidane leave Treno. Head to Dali via South Gate. You must speak to the guard twice to get through. If you didn't feed the Friendly Brown Mu any Ore on your last trip through, you can do so now.

In Dali, go into the windmill. It isn't running right now, so you can pick up the Cacusha and the Elixir on the upper floor. Now go to the Mayor's place, to the left of the windmill. Check the desk for the Mini-Brahne. Search the desk twice more until the boy says "Zzz," then search the heater for the Mayor's Key. Go back outside and search the Chocobo's pen for a hidden treasure chest containing 30,000 Gil, then search that same chest again for the Burman Coffee.

Leave Dali and go to Observatory Mountain. Give the coffee to Morrid, who will promise you a certain key item. Head back to Treno.

At the Knight's House, there's a new monster for you to fight. If you've been stealing a lot, use Thievery to inflict heavy non-elemental damage. The Catoblepas has nothing special for you to steal, but you'll receive 15,000 Gil for defeating it. Go visit Queen Stella, who will have more rewards in exchange for your new Stellazio. You may also wish to drop by the Auction House. You should absolutely pick up the Dark Matter from the Auction, which will teach a character to summon Odin. The shops have restocked as well, so you'll probably want to drop by there as well. Finally, Mogrich, outside the Knight's House, has a bit of information to pass along.

Now you're ready for the Card Tournament. If you've been playing a lot and collecting rare cards, you'll kick ass very easily. You should probably save after each round, however, just in case. You must win the first two rounds of the card tournament. If you get low on cards, Dr. Tot will give you some, or you can purchase them from the seller in front of the stadium. A good strategy for the first round is to select cards with a Magic attack of 2 or higher, or a physical attack of 3 or higher, with good defense stats. For the second round, use cards with lots of arrows and strong stats. The third round is easy; your opponent's cards have 1P or 2P attacks, Physical defense of 1, and Magic Defense of 0. Pick cards with magic attacks or stronger physical attacks. If you win, you'll get a Rebirth Ring. Your final opponent also has the nifty rare Oglop cards.

Part III: Alexandria In Danger

Items	Angel Earrings
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Mistodon
Moogles	Mosh
Special Notes	There is an optional boss in this area that you may find it worth your time to defeat.

Dagger must give orders to the Knights of Pluto. This is a reference to the very beginning of the game, when Steiner spoke to his men. The orders you give should suit the Knights' personalities, so that they will execute them well. Have her tell Weimar and Haagen to protect the townspeople. Breirecht and Laudo should contact Lindblum. Blutzen and Kohel will gather information, and Mullenkedheim and Dojebon can fire the cannons. You will get Angel Earrings if Dagger gives all the proper orders.

When fighting with Beatrix and Steiner, you shouldn't need to do more than attack. If you find yourself facing two Mistodons at once, use Climhazzard. In the last battle, Steiner will Auto-Trance. This shouldn't be difficult.

As Dagger, scoot your cute little royal tush upstairs. You will know if you make a wrong turn. Enjoy the scenes that follow.

When you control Zidane, pause a moment to equip your party with the strongest items you can. Make sure Amarant has the Poison Knuckles and the Add-Status ability equipped. You may want to equip Auto-Potion to your characters and get rid of all the Potions in your inventory, so that you have only Hi-Potions. There is an optional boss fight ahead that is difficult, but rewarding. Pause to clear people out of the castle, if you really wish to be a good Samaritan. In the library to the left, examine the "?" mark to fight Tantarian.

Boss: Tantarian
HP	21,997
Weakness	None
Steal	Demon's Mail, Silver Fork, Elixir, Ether
AP	30
Win	Running Shoes, possibly Ramuh Card

Attack the book to make it show its true form. Once it does so, steal from it, use magic and skills, but DO NOT physically attack this boss. Thievery is a good choice of skill if you've been stealing a lot, and Reis's Wind will be quite helpful. Have Vivi use his strongest magic, and alternate between having Amarant attack the boss and heal the party with Chakra. Tantarian's Paper Storm and Edge attacks are rather brutal. For winning this fight, you get the Running Shoes and possibly another Ramuh Card.

Keep heading up through the castle, and make sure you pause to save with Mosh. Many scenes will ensue.

Part IV: Lindblum

Items	Egoist's Armlet, Elixir (x2), Lapis Lazuli, Remedy, Chimera Armlet, 1273 Gil, 970 Gil, 4826 Gil
Key Items	Strange Potion, Unusual Potion, Beautiful Potion, Sagittarius Stellazio, Mini-Prima Vista
Cards	None
Monsters	None
Moogles	Mogki, Moodon
Shops	Dragoos' Weapon/Medicine Shop, Wayne's Synthesis Shop
Special Notes	There are a lot of people in Lindblum who play cards, and who have some nice cards to pick up.

When Zidane wakes up in the Guest Room, there are some new treasures waiting nearby--an Elixir and an Egoist's Armlet. Save your game, and agree to deliver Mogki's letter. When Blank arrives, ask him about Dagger. Head up to the telescope, and speak to her. Then head to the Regent's room. After the meeting, go back to the Guest Room and speak to Dagger again.

It seems you are in need of a few potions. But not so fast! There's a lot of stuff to find in this town. Go to the Business District first. Deliver your letter to Moodon at the Inn, then head north. Check the left side of the screen for the Sagittarius Stellazio. Drop by Card Freak Gon's house for another Elixir and a Remedy. He's a good Tetra Master opponent if your cards are weak; if you're a good player, he's laughable. The brother and sister by the pickle cart, Oliver and Joanna, have some very nice cards for you to win. Joanna possesses Antlion, Gimme Cat, Ragtimer, and Cactuar cards, while her brother has rare cards like Fenrir, Iron Man, Gargoyle, and Hecteyes. You might want to save before challenging them, and again after every game to ensure that you don't lose any of your good cards to them.

Head up to the Market Square, and visit the Weapon Shop if you like--it has been restocked, and there's plenty to buy. Then go find Alice, who will give you the Beautiful Potion. She's outside the Weapon Shop. You may want to drop by the Synthesist's Shop, too, while you're here.

When you're done shopping, head to the Theater District. Drop by Michael's Studio and talk to him, then search in the corner at the bottom of the stairs for the Strange Potion. There's also a Lapis Lazuli in the treasure chest. Michael's not much of a card player, by the way; if you're just starting out, though, he's a decent challenge. Now head to the Tantalus hideout. Cinna will give you the Unusual Potion. Inside the hideout, you'll find 1273 Gil, 970 Gil, and 4826 Gil. If you completed Morrid's sidequest, you should be able to find the Mini-Prima Vista on the floor near the bed.

Now it's time to head back to the castle and hope for the best. After the scene, head down to the Base Level and take the trolley to the Serpent's Gate. Check the chest at the back of the landing platform for a Chimera Armlet. Then board the Blue Narciss.

Part V: Black Mage Village

Items	Black Belt
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Griffin, Cactuar, Zaghnol, Goblin Mage, Zemzelett, Myconid, Ladybug (Friendly)
Moogles	Mogryo
Shops	None
Blue Magic	Goblin Punch, Matra Magic, White Wind, 1000 Needles, Mighty Guard
Special Notes	None

I recommend putting Quina, Steiner, and Freya in your party, since they will probably need to level up to catch up with your other characters. Pilot the Blue Narciss to the Gegalrich Shores, which are in the long narrow gulf on the south side of the Outer Continent. Head to the Black Mage Village.

The place is almost totally deserted, and there are only three things of interest. First is the Black Belt in the Item Shop--climb the ladder and jump on the bed to get it. Next, go to the cemetery and speak to No. 288, who will tell you what's going on. Vivi is at the Chocobo shack, so go find him. No. 288 will end up giving you directions, so head back to the Blue Narciss and sail east.

Part VI: Dealing With Kuja

Items	None
Key Items	None
Cards	None
Monsters	Antlion, Goblin Mage, Griffin, Troll, Ogre, Grimlock
Moogles	None
Shops	Zorn and Thorn's Medicine Shop
Blue Magic	Goblin Punch, Mighty Guard, Matra Magic, Night, White Wind, Vanish
Special Notes	The Grimlock enemies change weaknesses depending on which colour head they have. The ones who have their blue heads on top are weak against physical attacks, while the ones sporting pink heads are weak against magic attacks. You may want to equip at least one character with Locomotion to avoid their Stop attack.

Move through the desert to the northeast sinkhole, the one that does not have puffs of sand coming out of it. Avoid the other ones--if you try to enter them, you will have to fight Antlion enemies. Enter the sinkhole by pressing X.

Zidane will awaken in a small, circular room, and hold a brief conversation with Kuja. You have no choice but to agree to do him a favour. He tells you where and what: go to Oelivert and retrieve the Gulug Stone.

Now, you must choose a party. I recommend Zidane, Eiko, Freya, and Amarant. You should leave Steiner behind because he will be of more use where Vivi is, and you definitely want to leave Vivi and Dagger behind. Eiko won't be as useful once you get to Oelivert, but she can be of enormous help on the way there. Equipping the Healer ability on her once you get to Oelivert will make her much more useful. If you don't want her, take Quina instead, who will be able to learn a bunch of new Blue Magic. Kuja will transport you to the airship dock. As you make your way to the airship, beware of the Grimlock enemies, who can be immensely annoying. Board the airship to begin the next phase of your journey.

Part VII: Errand to Oelivert

Items	Remedy, Rising Sun, Elixir, Diamond Sword, Shield Armor, Power Vest, Feather Boots, Gaia Gear
Key Items	Gulug Stone
Cards	None
Monsters	Jabberwock, Catoblepas, Adamantoise, Armstrong, Cactuar, Ogre, Epitaph, Garuda
Moogles	Mimoza, Mooel
Shops	Mimoza's Mogshop
Blue Magic	Limit Glove, Earth Shake, 1000 Needles, Angel's Snack, Matra Magic, White Wind
Special Notes	None

When you reach the Forgotten Continent, purchase items from Zorn and Thorn. Equip everyone with the Clear Headed and Bright Eyes abilities; if you brought Eiko or Quina, equip them with Loudmouth. If you brought Quina, there's a Qu's Marsh to the north of where the airship lands; otherwise, head south into the canyons, and veer to the west. The light will change as you move into the canyons, as though it were approaching sunset. When you reach the seashore, turn east and then south, following the spiral-shaped canyon. Save outside the city, then head in.

Eiko's Moogle friend Mimoza is in Oelivert; she has a letter for you and runs a Mogshop. Pick up a lot of Soft items from her. Before you head into the city proper, make sure everyone who knows Chemist has that ability equipped. Give Eiko the Healer ability and direct her to attack your party members, which will heal them in battle.

Once inside the doors, look to the right side of the staircase for a Remedy. Head up the stairs for a Rising Sun. Head left from there and examine the magic globe, which will turn red. The chest contains an Elixir.

A chest to the far right contains a Power Vest. You'll see two more projectors, but investigating them proves fruitless. Go up the stairs to find a chest containing Feather Boots and another pair of projectors. Check the left-hand one, then activate the other three, moving clockwise. A story will gradually take shape. When you're finished, leave by the top-left exit.

In this large room, examine the glowing globe you come across, then keep going left. You'll find yourself back in the first projection room. Head through the blue door. Here you will find a few more pieces of the puzzle. Return to the main lobby, and head right. Mooel the Moogle is here, along with a chest containing Gaia Gear. Speak to Mooel, whom you should have a letter for, and make sure to save. Watch the display. Head through the door at the right, and step onto the platform. Walk up and take the Gulug Stone, only to find that its guardian isn't precisely pleased...

Boss: Ark
HP	20,002
Weakness	Shadow
Steal	Holy Lance, Power Vest, Elixir
AP	11
Win	Pumice Piece

Start out by casting Reis's Wind. Have Amarant Throw items and use Chakra to help heal people. Freya should attack, and Zidane should use Thievery if you've been stealing a lot, physical attacks if you haven't. If Zidane Trances, use Solution 9. Freya, at least, should have access to the Chemist ability, so use her as your healer, with Eiko and Amarant's help. Steal the Holy Lance if at all possible. Your party should all have the Clear Headed ability equipped to help defend against Ark's Confuse attacks. After the fight, you will get the stone. The scene shifts back to the Desert Palace.

Part VIII: Desert Palace

Items	Promist Ring, Anklet, Shield Armor, N-Kai Armlet, Black Hood, Venetia Shield
Key Items	Hourglass Key
Cards	Namingway Card
Monsters	Ogre, Grimlock, Drakan, Torama
Moogles	Mojito, Mogsam
Shops	Mojito's Mogshop
Blue Magic	Matra Magic, Night, Vanish, Lv. 4 Holy
Special Notes	None

As Cid, you have to save everyone's butt. You'll overhear a conversation between two Black Mages. Go right as they leave. You have six minutes to play a game of Red Light-Green Light with the Hedgehog Pie, snag the Hourglass Key, unbalance the scales, and turn the hourglass. Move ahead when the Hedgehog Pie's back is turned; if he sees you, you have to start over. Use the O button to move. Examine the weights and scales, then use the clay, stone, and iron weights. Flip the hourglass and set the others free.

If you left Eiko behind, she will lead the party. If not, Steiner assumes the lead. Deck everyone out with new equipment, and make sure Dagger equips the Pumice Piece so she can learn the Ark Summon. Give as many people as possible the Body Temp ability. Head right again. Mojito has a letter for your to deliver, and runs a Mogshop. Now head left and up the stairs. Examine the statue at the left, then check the glowing bloodstone at the right for a Promist Ring. Head up.

Examine the three statues, then run all the way right and head left past the demon statue. A new path appears. Go up it. Run to the right side of the balcony and light the candelabra, then head back to the three statues and exit to the left. You'll find yourself on a curving staircase. At the top are three braziers. Light all three and zip from the left side to the right, where you should light the brazier on the bottom left. The statues at the left will disappear. Go back to the left side and walk into the center area. Examine the wall art and light the two braziers in the center, causing the statues at the right to disappear.

Light the remaining two braziers on the right and go down the central steps. Light THAT brazier and the central bloodstone will glow. Retrieve the Anklet from it. Now head through the right-hand doorway. In the curved corridor, examine the second statue to light a candelabra. The bloodstone yields a Shield Armor. Keep going to the end of the semicircle and move slightly forward to go up the stairs.

At the top of the stairs, light the candelabra. The stained glass window will light up. Circle around the balcony to reach the library. At the left of the screen is a candelabra. Lighting it causes a staircase to appear. Ascend the stairs to light another candelabra on the left. A door will appear. Get the N-Kai Armlet and promptly equip it to Vivi so he can learn Water.

Go back to the library and down the stairs. Go up the small staircase at the left and check the !, then light the candelabra at the right to reveal a new doorway. Go through and to the left. Light the candelabra there and continue upwards to light yet another. Go back to the library.

Now light the candles at the bottom right side of the library. Oh goodie, a new door appears. Go through it and light the candelabra there, which opens up the left-hand wall of the library. Give Mogsam the letter from Mojito, and save your game. Move on to the left, and the next fire-trap in this palace.

Light two candles and examine the gargoyle. The bloodstone contains the Black Hood. Go through the door and across the balcony. Inspect the angel statue, and light the candles. You can get the Venetia Shield from the bloodstone. Light the third candle, beneath the portrait. Now extinguish the left-hand candle under the angel statue. Go back to the other side and extinguish the left-hand candle beneath the demon statue. A staircase will appear in the center of the room. Go back and save. Make sure that Vivi either knows Water or has the N-Kai Armlet equipped. If Dagger doesn't yet know the Leviathan summon, make sure you equip her with the Aquamarine.

Go back to the room with the angel and demon statues and ascend the staircase. Light the final candelabra, summoning the guardian of the Desert Palace, Valia Pira.

<

Boss: Valia Pira
HP	12,119
Weakness	Water
Steal