As I'm sure you know, this area is nothing but desert--not ideal for moving or defending troops.

No matter how careful we are, the enemy is bound to spot us... But we have to get through somehow.

We're coming up with a plan based on the information you got for us, Player.

Player: "What plan?"

We have a squad scouting the desert to secure the best possible advance route.

Captain Julia is leading the scouting party. She has experience in this sort of thing--she once headed an infiltration mission in the Eracus Desert in Eltnen of Elysea.

I'd like you involved in this mission, Player.

Player: "I'm on it."

You aren't one of mine.

But since you've managed to find us out here, I imagine Centurion Sefrim sent you.

Why have you come?

Player: "He did. My name is [%username]."

Ah, so you are Player. Nice to meet you.

I'm surprised to see you here. With all the praise attached to your name, I assumed you'd be doing more important things.

I'm glad they see this mission has high enough priority to send you. I was about to ask them for help, but since you're here...

Player: "What do you need?"

Some of my scouts haven't come back from their mission. It's well past the rendezvous time, but I can't spare anyone to go after them.

Anything could happen to one scout in this desert, but all of them? That's something we need to know about.

They were supposed to spread out and search the Mindboggle Waste. Head over there and find out what happened.

Player: "The task is mine."

Urgh... My... My head is... Who... who are you?

I... I think I was fighting you?

It wasn't me... It was... me who wasn't me...

Player: "You mean someone was controlling you?"

Yes, that... that makes sense. Ugh, I... What a horrible feeling.

My... My head finally feels clearer. This had to have something to do with Beritra! The Dragon Lord is known for his cunning and ability to dominate...

Your will was stronger than that of the Dragon Lord's, Daeva. I can't say I'm surprised, with what I've heard about you... Thank you.

Player: "Come on, let's get you out of here."

No, I'm fine. I'll stay.

If what happened to me happened to the others... I have to find the rest of my comrades.

Report back to Captain Julia and tell her I'm taking care of it.

Player: "If you insist."

You've come back alone, Player.

That doesn't bode well for my scouts.

Player: "They were dominated by Beritra. Jadun is looking for the rest of them."

Jadun... I am not surprised. He has a strong sense of responsibility.

I'll leave the scouts to him, then, but I will wait here for their return. I want you to report back to the Expedition, Player.

Beritra has stepped up his game. If we don't stay alert, the Dragon Lord could rip our secrets from our minds....

Player: "What a cheerful thought."

A mental attack by Beritra...

Hmmm... I hate to bring this up, but if Beritra is using mind control, we have to consider the idea that there may be Balaur followers among us. I'll be more careful about organizing squads from now on.

Thank you, Player. As much as I hate to entertain this idea, we have to take every precaution.