Garlean Empire

A northern power using advanced technology and moon-summoning magic to purge perceived threats.

The Garlean Empire is as a hostile northern power with highly developed technology. Unlike other nations relying on magic, they invaded the land of Ala Mhigo five years prior to the game's start but were halted by the ancient dragon Midgardsormr and his hordes. This threat prompted Eorzea's three main powers—Gridania, Ul'dah, and Limsa Lominsa—to reform their Grand Companies. The Empire is central to the plot, with Legatus Nael van Darnus attempting to summon Dalamud, the planet's second moon, down upon Eorzea to purge beastmen and primals he viewed as violent pagans.

Lore & Background

Set in the fantasy realm of Eorzea, the Garlean Empire operates as a hostile force distinct from the crystal-dependent nations. Five years before the game begins, their invasion of Ala Mhigo was stopped only by Midgardsormr's dragon hordes. In response to this threat and internal conflicts, Eorzean leaders united under the Eorzean Alliance. The Empire's actions drive the main narrative: Legatus Nael van Darnus utilizes arcane magic and technology to summon Dalamud. His goal is a purge of beastmen and primals, whom he considers violent pagans. This plot culminates at Castrum Novum, where the beacon for the moon was established before being destroyed by united Eorzean forces.

Reader's Guide

To understand the Garlean Empire in this source, focus on their role as antagonists driven by Legatus Nael van Darnus. Their primary strategic objective was the summoning of Dalamud via a beacon at Castrum Novum. Specific turning points: the formation of the Eorzean Alliance after individual failures, the discovery of the beacon by Cid nan Garlond, and the final confrontation at the Carteneau Flats where Dalamud fell. The Empire's actions directly triggered the cataclysm that sent Adventurers into a time rift.

Did You Know?

Garlean Legatus Gaius van Baelsar is identified as leading the Garlean presence provoking conflicts within Eorzean nations.
Dalamud was revealed to be a prison for the elder primal Bahamut upon its disintegration during the battle at Carteneau Flats.