Endwalker

Lore & Background

As the story unfolds, the narrative explores the deep history of the Thirteenth, a parallel version of Etheirys where Hydaelyn and Zodiark were not sundered. The Warrior must traverse multiple versions of this realm to understand the true origin of the Final Days. It is revealed that the Endsinger was once Elidibus, one of the Ascians who served Zodiark but eventually came to believe that ending the world was necessary to stop the endless cycle of reincarnation and suffering. The climax involves a philosophical and magical confrontation not just with an enemy, but with the very concept of memory and existence.

Reader's Guide

The narrative arc begins with the investigation into the Final Days, leading the Scions to Sharlayan where they meet the scholar Thaliak and learn of the Endsinger. The journey forces a split between the Warrior's physical presence on Etheirys and their soul traveling through the First, a parallel realm. Key motivations include Elidibus's desire to erase the pain of the cycle of reincarnation versus the Scions' belief that life is worth living despite its suffering.

Major twists reveal that the Final Days are caused by the sundering of Hydaelyn and Zodiark, and that Elidibus himself is the Endsinger, seeking to destroy all worlds to end the conflict. The expansion connects deeply to the overarching narrative by resolving the ancient war between the two primal twins. It concludes with a choice: allow the world to be reset or find a way to heal the rift without erasing existence. The story emphasizes that true salvation comes from accepting loss and moving forward, rather than fleeing into oblivion.

Did You Know?

• The expansion's theme song features lyrics in a fictional language created specifically for the game's lore.
• Elidibus was originally introduced as a minor antagonist decades ago before becoming the final boss of this saga.
• The concept of 'the First' allows players to explore alternate timelines and versions of familiar locations.