Now the souls of two pirates hang in the balance, but only one can make it back to the Sea of Thieves. Me... or Captain Flameheart. The choice... is yours.
Return of the Damned is the ninth Adventure in Sea of Thieves and the second adventure to feature a branching story wherein the community's choice will have long-lasting impacts.
Will you side with Belle and bring about the return of Pendragon whilst preventing Flameheart's resurrection?
There’s no longer any chance to prevent the Reapers’ ritual from taking place, but as the old pirate saying goes: “If you can’t beat ‘em…” At Shipwreck Bay, Belle and Pendragon are readying their own version of the ceremony and will attempt to summon Flameheart themselves, drawing him away from his waiting body so that his spirit can be cast into exile instead.
Unfortunately for Pendragon, participating in this desperate scheme has placed his own soul in jeopardy. If the Reapers succeed and Flameheart is reborn, it will be Sir Arthur who finds himself marooned in the furthest reaches of the Sea of the Damned, beyond even Belle’s ability to aid him.
Twin rituals. The fates of two powerful pirates hanging in the balance. Each side equally determined to secure their preferred future for the Sea of Thieves. Both Belle and the Servant of the Flame are calling for aid, and this is where pirates come in…
The key to success lies in controlling Flameheart’s Sea Forts, which now burn with the six Flames of Fate – effectively transforming the entire Sea of Thieves into one gigantic Fort of the Damned rite. Within these Forts lie a multitude of Bewitching Dolls: powerful Dark Relics that can aid both Belle and the Servant in their respective rituals, depending on who pirates choose to deliver them to.
There is a catch, however – the Dolls draw their power from the Forts that house them, which means that the more Sea Forts are under a side’s direct control, the more effective the Relics will be. To that end, both Belle and the Servant are preparing special flags for those who are willing to join their cause. Acquiring one is as simple as playing (or replaying) the Adventure and speaking to the representative of your chosen side.
These flags can then be flown at conquered Sea Forts, capturing them for that side and increasing the power of Bewitching Dolls handed in (and causing the Forts to be defended by loyal Ancient Phantoms or Reaper Phantoms, depending on who’s currently in charge). Since flags can be lowered at any time by passing pirates looking to sabotage their enemies, even if they’re not undertaking the Adventure, the stage is set for a frantic battle of strength and cunning that will span every region of the sea.
As if things weren’t deadly enough, vicious Soulflame Captains are being drawn to the Sea of Thieves in Flameheart’s wake. There’s no telling if and when they might make their presence known at a Sea Fort, but if one is encountered and defeated, its essence can be used to enchant a Bewitching Doll, further increasing the Dark Relic’s usefulness when handed in at Shipwreck Bay or The Reaper’s Hideout.
Whether it’s tearing across the map to claim several Sea Forts at once, viciously defending those bastions they’ve already conquered or lying in wait to snatch Bewitching Dolls from the clutches of pirates who let their guard down, different crews will approach the impending battle in different ways – and ultimately, their actions will determine whether it’s Flameheart or Pendragon who’ll be standing tall on the Sea of Thieves in the months ahead.
Which side will you stand with? You have until November 3rd to make your decision, for that’s when ‘Return of the Damned’ launches, with the two-week battle reaching its crescendo on November 17th and the winning side being declared shortly after. Choose carefully, pirates – the future of the Sea of Thieves lies with you…
Deeds
Deeds are challenges related to the Adventure but reward renown, and the Devotee of the Damned title if all are completed.
"A Title awarded to those who conquered Sea Forts and delivered Dark Relics during the Time of Resurrection."
Complete all Deeds in the Return of the Damned Adventure to earn this Title.
Chapters
Chapter One
Two rituals at Shipwreck Bay and The Reaper's Hideout will determine the fate of Captain Flameheart...
— Quest Journal
Outpost
As you approach any Outpost tavern, Larinna can be heard beckoning you over. Speak with her and select the "You mentioned Belle and The Reaper's Bones..." dialogue option.
To choose Belle's Path and help to prevent Flameheart's resurrection while saving Pendragon, select the "[BELLE'S PATH]" dialogue option.
To choose the Reaper's Path and help to resurrect Flameheart while dooming Pendragon, select the "[REAPER'S PATH]" dialogue option.
Chapter Two: Seizing the Sea Forts
For information on how to further score for either side, see Scoring.
Bewtiching Dolls located within Sea Forts are required to help turn the tide in a battle for Flameheart's future...
— Quest Journal
Belle's Path: To Prevent Rebirth
Shipwreck Bay
If you chose Belle's Path, begin your sail to Shipwreck Bay to speak with Belle just north of the wreck of the Blackwyche.
Speak with Belle and select the "[COMPLETE CHAPTER] What's going on? What is all this?" dialogue option to complete Chapter One.
Speak with Belle and select the "[CONTINUE BELLE'S PATH] I want to help complete your ritual." dialogue option to begin Chapter Two.
You will receive a note directing you to any Sea Fort which does not already have a green beacon over it.
Among the Phantoms, there is a chance for a single Soulflame Captain to spawn.
Use the Fortress Treasury Key dropped by the Captain of the Fortress to unlock the vault on the fort's lower level. Inside, you'll find a Bewitching Doll in the back cupboard.
If you defeated a Soulflame Captain earlier, interact with its soul where it died while holding your Bewitching Doll to convert it into an Enchanted Bewitching Doll. These award more points for your chosen side when delivered.
Head to the top of the Sea Fort and, while holding Belle's Fort Flag from your Quest Radial, interact with the flagpole to claim the fort for Belle's side.
Shipwreck Bay
Return to Belle on Shipwreck Bay and deliver her a Bewitching Doll or Enchanted Bewitching Doll.
Belle's Path will complete and Belle's Ritual Sails will be awarded immediately.
Speak with The Servant of the Flame and select the "[COMPLETE CHAPTER] Is that... Flameheart? What's going on?” dialogue option to complete Chapter One.
Speak with The Servant of the Flame and select the "[CONTINUE REAPER'S PATH] I want to help summon Flameheart!" dialogue option to begin Chapter Two.
You will receive a note directing you to any Sea Fort which does not already have a red beacon over it.
Among the Phantoms, there is a chance for a single Soulflame Captain to spawn.
Use the Fortress Treasury Key dropped by the Captain of the Fortress to unlock the vault on the fort's lower level. Inside, you'll find a Bewitching Doll in the back cupboard.
If you defeated a Soulflame Captain earlier, interact with its soul where it died while holding your Bewitching Doll to convert it into an Enchanted Bewitching Doll. These award more points for your chosen side when delivered.
Head to the top of the Sea Fort and, while holding the Reaper's Fort Flag from your Quest Radial, interact with the flagpole to claim the fort for the Reaper's side.
The Reaper's Hideout
Return to The Servant of the Flame on The Reaper's Hideout and deliver him a Bewitching Doll or Enchanted Bewitching Doll.
The Reaper's Path will complete and the Reapers' Ritual Sails will be awarded immediately.
Scoring
Score for you chosen side to help shift the final outcome, changing the Sea of Thieves forever.
Will you side with Belle and bring about the return of Pendragon whilst preventing Flameheart's resurrection?
Or will you side with The Servant of the Flame, bringing about the return of Flameheart whilst dooming Pendragon to be marooned within the Sea of the Damned where not even Belle can reach him?
How to score for your chosen side
Choose to deliver Bewitching Dolls to either Belle at Shipwreck Bay or The Servant of the Flame at Reaper's Hideout to score for your chosen side.
One doll can be found in the back cupboard of a defeated Sea Fort's vault.
Another doll can be found next to the pillow on a Sea Fort's bed.
A third doll can be found in the Footlocker next to the ammo chest in a Sea Fort's kitchen.
The more Sea Forts claimed for your chosen side on your game server, the higher a doll will score when delivered.
Claim Sea Forts by starting the Adventure for your chosen side and raising their flag at the flagpole atop a defeated Sea Fort.
Forts claimed for Belle's side will have a green beacon over them while forts claimed for the Reaper's side will have a red beacon over them.
Results
The results of the Adventure was announced during the Return of the Damned Results stream on the Sea of Thieves Twitch channel on November 18, 2022 (16:00 UTC), resulting in...
A Reaper's Path Win! Resurrecting Flameheart in his prime, and banishing Pendragon deep into the Sea of the Damned.
You haven't heard? It's the Pirate Lord's idea, helping pirates become Captains of Adventure with a ship of their own to command. He'll even help you give it a name! Obviously, buying a ship costs gold, and you'll need more to decorate your quarters, keep the barrels stocked and make sure everything stays in fine condition. Once you own a ship, the Shipwrights can make a record of the customisations and decorations you've chosen, so you can set sail all the quicker next time. On top of that, there are perks like supply delivery and special Voyages that are reserved for Captains and any crewmates sailing with them. Honestly, if I didn't have work to do at the Outpost, even I might be counting my coins right now...
Things seem a little intense right now.
You're a sharp one... We're holding the Festival of the Damned, and things always tend to get a bit... strange... when we do. But this year? I'm hearing about pirates fighting back and forth over Sea Forts, gangs of phantoms roaming across islands and crazy lights in the sky! With all of that to think about, fighting off a pack of skeletons and stealing their treasures actually sounds pretty relaxing. Still I'm trying to look on the bright side. If Captain Flameheart really is coming back, we might not have much left to celebrate...
[BEGIN REAPER'S PATH] Sounds like I should check in with the Reapers...
(Voiceover starts and Reaper's Path begins)
Chapter One dialogue
Beginning Belle's Path
Larinna
[BEGIN BELLE'S PATH] Belle needs help? With what?
So, from what I hear, The Reaper's Bones aren't done trying to bring back Captain Flameheart. All I know is that their Sea Forts are somehow involved. Whatever their plan is, I'm sure that Belle's trying to stop them. You should sail over to Shipwreck Bay and help her while there's still time. Good luck, pirate!
Beginning Reaper's Path
Larinna
[BEGIN REAPER'S PATH] Sounds like I should check in with the Reapers...
Okay, but watch your back. Things can get pretty crazy out there during the Festival of the Damned. If the Reapers are trying to bring back Captain Flameheart, they won't take kindly to intruders. Steer clear of their leader unless you mean business!
Tread lightly, pirate. There is much here that could prove dangerous to touch...
This all looks very... strange.
I imagine it must - and yet, if you were to brave The Reaper's Hideout, I have no doubt you would see something very similar. But make no mistake, we are in deadly opposition. The Time of Resurrection is at hand, and the Reapers are working to draw Captain Flameheart's spirit from the Sea of the Damned, returning it to his waiting body. If they succeed, the most ruthless and dangerous Skeleton Lord ever to threaten the Sea of Thieves will be reborn, more determined than ever to complete his conquest. Our plan was to summon Flameheart overselves, that we might imprison his spirit and seal it away for good. That is why poor Arthur has placed himself in such peril. If we should fail, his soul will be cast into the void intended for Flameheart, and he will be lost to us - perhaps forever. All I can do now is stand guard...
How does this ritual work?
The veil between worlds is currently weakend - fragile enough that the power of Dark Relics can draw a spirit completely from the Sea of the Damned. Such spirits, however, require a suitable vessel. The Reapers intend to use Flameheart's restored body. As you can see, we have a different destination in mind. The Bewitching Dolls we need are found at places of power - Flameheart's Sea Forts. The more of those we control, the more powerful the Relics we recover will be! Moreover, Soulflame Captains are following in Flameheart's wake like fish trailing a shark. We can use their energies to enchant the Dolls, further empowering them. Of course, the Reapers wish to control the Sea Forts and claim its contents for their own ritual. We are embroiling in a tug of war - one with lives on the line...
What should I be looking for?
There is much to be mindful of. Contested Sea Forts, unclaimed Bewitching Dolls and, if you are fortunate, you may be able to locate a Soulflame Captain...
Tell me about the contested Sea Forts.
There are six in total, and each can be claimed for our cause by defeating any Phantoms that dwell within, then raising our flag using the flagpole atop the fort. Naturally, flags that fly the crest of The Reaper's Bones must first be lowered before ours can take its place. Even if you do not possess a flag of ours to raise, I would encourage you to lower any Reaper flags you spy atop the Forts. Doing so will lessen the power of their Dark Relics. If you amass a good number of Bewitching Dolls, it may be wise to claim as many Sea Forts as possible before returning them to me. Once a Sea Fort falls under our control, our Ancient Allies will work to defend it from The Reapers. Even so, we will not be able to keep a fort indefinitely, so speed will be essential.
Tell me about the Bewitching Dolls.
Each Sea Fort has a treasury at its lowest level, and the Phantoms will certainly have stored a Bewitching Doll safely inside. To access the treasures within, you'll need to claim the Treasury Key by defeating the Captain of the Fortress, but are unlikely to show themselves until their ranks are thinned. However, it may well be that additional Bewitching Dolls have been stored in other parts of the Sea Fort and forgotten in the heat of battle. The more Dolls you can bring me, the better our chances. Of course, you may also find them aboard the ships of our enemies, ripe for the taking...
Tell me about the Soulflame Captains.
Hmm... I am almost loathe to consider them as part of our plan, for their presence on the waves is by no means guaranteed. Sooner or later, however, you should expect to encounter one lurking within a Sea Fort, drawn to the six points of power by the chaos of battle. They will doubtlessly prove to be a formidable foe, but if you can defeat one, their energies will greatly increase the power of a Bewitching Doll. If you were to bring me an Enchanted Bewitching Doll it would greatly aid me - but I appreciate that that is no easy task. An Enchanted Doll while all six Sea Forts were under our control would be a truly remarkable boon. All I ask is that you do everything within your means to help us. If we do not fight, we are doomed to fail.
[COMPLETE CHAPTER] What's going on? What is all this?
(Voiceover starts and Chapter One completes)
Belle
[COMPLETE CHAPTER] What's going on? What is all this?
I ask that you do not disturb Captain Pendragon. He requires full concentration if we are to have any hope of stopping Flameheart. But if you are here to assist us, then it is urgent that we speak. The future of the Sea of Thieves may depend upon it...
Beginning Chapter Two
Belle
Tread lightly, pirate. There is much here that could prove dangerous to touch...
This all looks very... strange.
I imagine it must - and yet, if you were to brave The Reaper's Hideout, I have no doubt you would see something very similar. But make no mistake, we are in deadly opposition. The Time of Resurrection is at hand, and the Reapers are working to draw Captain Flameheart's spirit from the Sea of the Damned, returning it to his waiting body. If they succeed, the most ruthless and dangerous Skeleton Lord ever to threaten the Sea of Thieves will be reborn, more determined than ever to complete his conquest. Our plan was to summon Flameheart overselves, that we might imprison his spirit and seal it away for good. That is why poor Arthur has placed himself in such peril. If we should fail, his soul will be cast into the void intended for Flameheart, and he will be lost to us - perhaps forever. All I can do now is stand guard...
How does this ritual work?
The veil between worlds is currently weakend - fragile enough that the power of Dark Relics can draw a spirit completely from the Sea of the Damned. Such spirits, however, require a suitable vessel. The Reapers intend to use Flameheart's restored body. As you can see, we have a different destination in mind. The Bewitching Dolls we need are found at places of power - Flameheart's Sea Forts. The more of those we control, the more powerful the Relics we recover will be! Moreover, Soulflame Captains are following in Flameheart's wake like fish trailing a shark. We can use their energies to enchant the Dolls, further empowering them. Of course, the Reapers wish to control the Sea Forts and claim its contents for their own ritual. We are embroiling in a tug of war - one with lives on the line...
What should I be looking for?
There is much to be mindful of. Contested Sea Forts, unclaimed Bewitching Dolls and, if you are fortunate, you may be able to locate a Soulflame Captain...
Tell me about the contested Sea Forts.
There are six in total, and each can be claimed for our cause by defeating any Phantoms that dwell within, then raising our flag using the flagpole atop the fort. Naturally, flags that fly the crest of The Reaper's Bones must first be lowered before ours can take its place. Even if you do not possess a flag of ours to raise, I would encourage you to lower any Reaper flags you spy atop the Forts. Doing so will lessen the power of their Dark Relics. If you amass a good number of Bewitching Dolls, it may be wise to claim as many Sea Forts as possible before returning them to me. Once a Sea Fort falls under our control, our Ancient Allies will work to defend it from The Reapers. Even so, we will not be able to keep a fort indefinitely, so speed will be essential.
Tell me about the Bewitching Dolls.
Each Sea Fort has a treasury at its lowest level, and the Phantoms will certainly have stored a Bewitching Doll safely inside. To access the treasures within, you'll need to claim the Treasury Key by defeating the Captain of the Fortress, but are unlikely to show themselves until their ranks are thinned. However, it may well be that additional Bewitching Dolls have been stored in other parts of the Sea Fort and forgotten in the heat of battle. The more Dolls you can bring me, the better our chances. Of course, you may also find them aboard the ships of our enemies, ripe for the taking...
Tell me about the Soulflame Captains.
Hmm... I am almost loathe to consider them as part of our plan, for their presence on the waves is by no means guaranteed. Sooner or later, however, you should expect to encounter one lurking within a Sea Fort, drawn to the six points of power by the chaos of battle. They will doubtlessly prove to be a formidable foe, but if you can defeat one, their energies will greatly increase the power of a Bewitching Doll. If you were to bring me an Enchanted Bewitching Doll it would greatly aid me - but I appreciate that that is no easy task. An Enchanted Doll while all six Sea Forts were under our control would be a truly remarkable boon. All I ask is that you do everything within your means to help us. If we do not fight, we are doomed to fail.
[CONTINUE BELLE'S PATH] I want to help complete your ritual.
(Voiceover starts and Chapter Two begins)
Belle
[CONTINUE BELLE'S PATH] I want to help complete your ritual.
I'm glad to hear it, for we can no longer prevent the return of Captain Flameheart. Instead, our plan must now be to draw his spirit here, far from his waiting body, where it can be sealed away for good. The six Sea Forts are the key to Flameheart's defeat. They house Bewitching Dolls - Dark Relics that can help us complete our form of the ritual. The more Sea Forts we seize, the stronger those Relics will become. Flameheart's son is even more tenacious than I imagined - but something is happening which he did not expect. Soulflame Captains are being drawn from the Sea of the Damned in Flameheart's wake. If you can destroy one and bind their soul to a Dark Relic, it will greatly increase its power, and our chances. Fly our flag at as many Sea Forts as possible, enchant the Dolls if you can, but above all, bring those Dark Relics to me! I know this will be dangerous, but we must try. If we fail, the loss of Pendragon will only be the beginning...
Completing Chapter Two
Belle
Travel to a Sea Fort and vanquish the Phantoms that inhabit it, then fly our flag high atop the roof. Next, scour the Fort for a Bewitching Doll and return it to me. It can be enchanted, so much the better!
This all looks very... strange.
I imagine it must - and yet, if you were to brave The Reaper's Hideout, I have no doubt you would see something very similar. But make no mistake, we are in deadly opposition. The Time of Resurrection is at hand, and the Reapers are working to draw Captain Flameheart's spirit from the Sea of the Damned, returning it to his waiting body. If they succeed, the most ruthless and dangerous Skeleton Lord ever to threaten the Sea of Thieves will be reborn, more determined than ever to complete his conquest. Our plan was to summon Flameheart overselves, that we might imprison his spirit and seal it away for good. That is why poor Arthur has placed himself in such peril. If we should fail, his soul will be cast into the void intended for Flameheart, and he will be lost to us - perhaps forever. All I can do now is stand guard...
How does this ritual work?
The veil between worlds is currently weakend - fragile enough that the power of Dark Relics can draw a spirit completely from the Sea of the Damned. Such spirits, however, require a suitable vessel. The Reapers intend to use Flameheart's restored body. As you can see, we have a different destination in mind. The Bewitching Dolls we need are found at places of power - Flameheart's Sea Forts. The more of those we control, the more powerful the Relics we recover will be! Moreover, Soulflame Captains are following in Flameheart's wake like fish trailing a shark. We can use their energies to enchant the Dolls, further empowering them. Of course, the Reapers wish to control the Sea Forts and claim its contents for their own ritual. We are embroiling in a tug of war - one with lives on the line...
What should I be looking for?
There is much to be mindful of. Contested Sea Forts, unclaimed Bewitching Dolls and, if you are fortunate, you may be able to locate a Soulflame Captain...
Tell me about the contested Sea Forts.
There are six in total, and each can be claimed for our cause by defeating any Phantoms that dwell within, then raising our flag using the flagpole atop the fort. Naturally, flags that fly the crest of The Reaper's Bones must first be lowered before ours can take its place. Even if you do not possess a flag of ours to raise, I would encourage you to lower any Reaper flags you spy atop the Forts. Doing so will lessen the power of their Dark Relics. If you amass a good number of Bewitching Dolls, it may be wise to claim as many Sea Forts as possible before returning them to me. Once a Sea Fort falls under our control, our Ancient Allies will work to defend it from The Reapers. Even so, we will not be able to keep a fort indefinitely, so speed will be essential.
Tell me about the Bewitching Dolls.
Each Sea Fort has a treasury at its lowest level, and the Phantoms will certainly have stored a Bewitching Doll safely inside. To access the treasures within, you'll need to claim the Treasury Key by defeating the Captain of the Fortress, but are unlikely to show themselves until their ranks are thinned. However, it may well be that additional Bewitching Dolls have been stored in other parts of the Sea Fort and forgotten in the heat of battle. The more Dolls you can bring me, the better our chances. Of course, you may also find them aboard the ships of our enemies, ripe for the taking...
Tell me about the Soulflame Captains.
Hmm... I am almost loathe to consider them as part of our plan, for their presence on the waves is by no means guaranteed. Sooner or later, however, you should expect to encounter one lurking within a Sea Fort, drawn to the six points of power by the chaos of battle. They will doubtlessly prove to be a formidable foe, but if you can defeat one, their energies will greatly increase the power of a Bewitching Doll. If you were to bring me an Enchanted Bewitching Doll it would greatly aid me - but I appreciate that that is no easy task. An Enchanted Doll while all six Sea Forts were under our control would be a truly remarkable boon. All I ask is that you do everything within your means to help us. If we do not fight, we are doomed to fail.
(Deliver a Bewitching Doll or Enchanted Bewitching Doll to Belle after raising Belle's Fort Flag at a Sea Fort)
(Voiceover starts and Adventure completes)
Belle
(Deliver a Bewitching Doll or Enchanted Bewitching Doll to Belle after raising Belle's Fort Flag at a Sea Fort)
I knew I could count on you! But there is much more we have yet to accomplish. The more sea forts we control, and the more Dark Relics we have, the better our chance of stopping Flameheart - and saving poor Arthur. If you can find more, I'll be waiting. Until then, farewell!
We are a noble company of pirates who wish to embrace and encourage the real freedom that the Sea of Thieves has given us. There is no so-called 'Pirate Code' here. We reward self-reliance, strength and the will to follow your passion. If you do not fear the call of battle, freedom and glory, then there is a place for you among us.
What's in it for me?
We have rewards for those who keep to our tenets and prove their worth. You'll earn gold, of course, as well as armaments and decorations for your ship. We stand for glory! Every time your inner fire brings you out on top, you should show the world.
Emissaries are those pirates who wish to fully represent us on the seas. When you become an Emissary, you will be acting in our name. Be fearless and proud! You'll earn greater rewards for your prizes whilst you're an Emissary. You may wear our garments, too, so our reputation spreads. Seek out the Emissaries of other Companies and take their flags as trophies! Show them the folly of their ways.
Tell me more about this ritual.
Our efforts are about to reach fruition! Bewitching Dolls held safely in our Sea Forts and delivered to this ritual site will soon bring about my father's return...
How does this ritual work?
Our Sea Forts are precisely located at positions of power, suitable for conducting a summoning ritual larger than any seen before! A means to bring my father home... That is why it is vital that Sea Forts remain under our control, with the flag of The Reaper's Bones flown for all to see! Bewitching Dolls are to be collected from the Forts and brought to me. They, too, will aid in my father's rebirth. And there is yet more that can be done... Soulflame Captains often haunt the Sea Forts. If annihilated, their energies can enchant a Bewitching Doll and greatly enhance its power. I will offer our flag to anyone with the courage to claim a Sea Fort in our name and bring me the Dark Relics that lie within. The flame must burn!
Tell me about the contested Sea Forts.
There are six. Once their unruly Phantoms have been eliminated, our flag can be attached to the Sea Fort's flagpole as a symbol of our dominance. I am aware that interlopers seek to disrupt our glorious work. Their flags are always to be removed and obliterated, even if you have no replacement at hand! The Sea Forts have manifested at places of great... potential. The more of them we control, the better use I will be able to make of the Bewitching Dolls you bring me. You must strike a balance between domination of the Sea Forts and ensuring that a steady supply of the Dolls reach me here. Muster all your strength and guile.
Tell me about the Bewitching Dolls.
They are the Dark Relics needed to complete our ritual. They are housed within the Sea Fort treasuries - the Captain of the Fortress holds the key, and is disposable... Those simple-minded spirits may well have discarded other Bewitching Dolls around the Sea Fort, so be watchful as you make your assault. Our enemies are also seeking the Bewitching Dolls. If you can sink or board their vessels to snatch the Relics from under their noses, then so be it!
Tell me about the Soulflame Captains.
Brutish exiles from the Sea of the Damned. They have their uses, but for now, their main significance is the energies they contain. If you can defeat a Soulflame Captain, you can harvest what remains to enchant a Bewitching Doll. Such a Relic will certainly assist in the ritual! If you are fortunate enough to meet one at a Sea Fort, be sure to strike it down and claim its power in the name of the Flame! Crews who were able to command all six Sea Forts and deliver an enchanted Bewitching Doll in this way would surely earn my father's respect.
[COMPLETE CHAPTER] Is that... Flameheart? What's going on?
(Voiceover starts and Chapter One completes)
The Servant of the Flame
[COMPLETE CHAPTER] Is that... Flameheart? What's going on?
We are on the brink of our greatest victory - restoring my father to his rightful place as ruler of the waves! By now, the ritual should already be complete, but that treacherous ghoul and her accomplices seek to disrupt our work! If you are among their number, then leave while you still can! But if you wish to fight for true piracy, then pledge your oath to me, and I shall make use of your strength...
Beginning Chapter Two
The Servant of the Flame
If you have a reason for disturbing me, state it. Otherwise, leave - while you are still able. I have much to accomplish...
We are a noble company of pirates who wish to embrace and encourage the real freedom that the Sea of Thieves has given us. There is no so-called 'Pirate Code' here. We reward self-reliance, strength and the will to follow your passion. If you do not fear the call of battle, freedom and glory, then there is a place for you among us.
What's in it for me?
We have rewards for those who keep to our tenets and prove their worth. You'll earn gold, of course, as well as armaments and decorations for your ship. We stand for glory! Every time your inner fire brings you out on top, you should show the world.
Emissaries are those pirates who wish to fully represent us on the seas. When you become an Emissary, you will be acting in our name. Be fearless and proud! You'll earn greater rewards for your prizes whilst you're an Emissary. You may wear our garments, too, so our reputation spreads. Seek out the Emissaries of other Companies and take their flags as trophies! Show them the folly of their ways.
Tell me more about this ritual.
Our efforts are about to reach fruition! Bewitching Dolls held safely in our Sea Forts and delivered to this ritual site will soon bring about my father's return...
How does this ritual work?
Our Sea Forts are precisely located at positions of power, suitable for conducting a summoning ritual larger than any seen before! A means to bring my father home... That is why it is vital that Sea Forts remain under our control, with the flag of The Reaper's Bones flown for all to see! Bewitching Dolls are to be collected from the Forts and brought to me. They, too, will aid in my father's rebirth. And there is yet more that can be done... Soulflame Captains often haunt the Sea Forts. If annihilated, their energies can enchant a Bewitching Doll and greatly enhance its power. I will offer our flag to anyone with the courage to claim a Sea Fort in our name and bring me the Dark Relics that lie within. The flame must burn!
Tell me about the contested Sea Forts.
There are six. Once their unruly Phantoms have been eliminated, our flag can be attached to the Sea Fort's flagpole as a symbol of our dominance. I am aware that interlopers seek to disrupt our glorious work. Their flags are always to be removed and obliterated, even if you have no replacement at hand! The Sea Forts have manifested at places of great... potential. The more of them we control, the better use I will be able to make of the Bewitching Dolls you bring me. You must strike a balance between domination of the Sea Forts and ensuring that a steady supply of the Dolls reach me here. Muster all your strength and guile.
Tell me about the Bewitching Dolls.
They are the Dark Relics needed to complete our ritual. They are housed within the Sea Fort treasuries - the Captain of the Fortress holds the key, and is disposable... Those simple-minded spirits may well have discarded other Bewitching Dolls around the Sea Fort, so be watchful as you make your assault. Our enemies are also seeking the Bewitching Dolls. If you can sink or board their vessels to snatch the Relics from under their noses, then so be it!
Tell me about the Soulflame Captains.
Brutish exiles from the Sea of the Damned. They have their uses, but for now, their main significance is the energies they contain. If you can defeat a Soulflame Captain, you can harvest what remains to enchant a Bewitching Doll. Such a Relic will certainly assist in the ritual! If you are fortunate enough to meet one at a Sea Fort, be sure to strike it down and claim its power in the name of the Flame! Crews who were able to command all six Sea Forts and deliver an enchanted Bewitching Doll in this way would surely earn my father's respect.
[CONTINUE REAPER'S PATH] I want to help summon Flameheart!
(Voiceover starts and Chapter Two begins)
The Servant of the Flame
[CONTINUE REAPER'S PATH] I want to help summon Flameheart!
Excellent! The time has come for you to receive your orders. First, know this: our Sea Forts are more than mere storehouses. When their beacons are lit with Flames of Fate, they serve to open a doorway from the Sea of the Damned. One through which my father will return! To overcome our enemy, I require the power of Dark Relics currently stored within the Sea Forts. The more forts under our control, the stronger the Relics become! The barrier between worlds grows weak, and the forsaken now wander these shores. If you should encounter a Soulflame Captain, strike them down in father's name and bind their essence to a Dark Relic! Their power will greatly assist our efforts. Now go! Claim the Sea Forts, locate the Dark Relics within and bring them to me. Our new dawn is almost here...
Completing Chapter Two
The Servant of the Flame
Travel to a Sea Fort and vanquish the Phantoms that inhabit it, then fly our flag high atop the roof. Next, scour the Fort for a Bewitching Doll and return it to me. It can be enchanted, so much the better!
We are a noble company of pirates who wish to embrace and encourage the real freedom that the Sea of Thieves has given us. There is no so-called 'Pirate Code' here. We reward self-reliance, strength and the will to follow your passion. If you do not fear the call of battle, freedom and glory, then there is a place for you among us.
What's in it for me?
We have rewards for those who keep to our tenets and prove their worth. You'll earn gold, of course, as well as armaments and decorations for your ship. We stand for glory! Every time your inner fire brings you out on top, you should show the world.
Emissaries are those pirates who wish to fully represent us on the seas. When you become an Emissary, you will be acting in our name. Be fearless and proud! You'll earn greater rewards for your prizes whilst you're an Emissary. You may wear our garments, too, so our reputation spreads. Seek out the Emissaries of other Companies and take their flags as trophies! Show them the folly of their ways.
Tell me more about this ritual.
Our efforts are about to reach fruition! Bewitching Dolls held safely in our Sea Forts and delivered to this ritual site will soon bring about my father's return...
How does this ritual work?
Our Sea Forts are precisely located at positions of power, suitable for conducting a summoning ritual larger than any seen before! A means to bring my father home... That is why it is vital that Sea Forts remain under our control, with the flag of The Reaper's Bones flown for all to see! Bewitching Dolls are to be collected from the Forts and brought to me. They, too, will aid in my father's rebirth. And there is yet more that can be done... Soulflame Captains often haunt the Sea Forts. If annihilated, their energies can enchant a Bewitching Doll and greatly enhance its power. I will offer our flag to anyone with the courage to claim a Sea Fort in our name and bring me the Dark Relics that lie within. The flame must burn!
Tell me about the contested Sea Forts.
There are six. Once their unruly Phantoms have been eliminated, our flag can be attached to the Sea Fort's flagpole as a symbol of our dominance. I am aware that interlopers seek to disrupt our glorious work. Their flags are always to be removed and obliterated, even if you have no replacement at hand! The Sea Forts have manifested at places of great... potential. The more of them we control, the better use I will be able to make of the Bewitching Dolls you bring me. You must strike a balance between domination of the Sea Forts and ensuring that a steady supply of the Dolls reach me here. Muster all your strength and guile.
Tell me about the Bewitching Dolls.
They are the Dark Relics needed to complete our ritual. They are housed within the Sea Fort treasuries - the Captain of the Fortress holds the key, and is disposable... Those simple-minded spirits may well have discarded other Bewitching Dolls around the Sea Fort, so be watchful as you make your assault. Our enemies are also seeking the Bewitching Dolls. If you can sink or board their vessels to snatch the Relics from under their noses, then so be it!
Tell me about the Soulflame Captains.
Brutish exiles from the Sea of the Damned. They have their uses, but for now, their main significance is the energies they contain. If you can defeat a Soulflame Captain, you can harvest what remains to enchant a Bewitching Doll. Such a Relic will certainly assist in the ritual! If you are fortunate enough to meet one at a Sea Fort, be sure to strike it down and claim its power in the name of the Flame! Crews who were able to command all six Sea Forts and deliver an enchanted Bewitching Doll in this way would surely earn my father's respect.
(Deliver a Bewitching Doll or Enchanted Bewitching Doll to The Servant of the Flame after raising the Reaper's Fort Flag at a Sea Fort)
(Voiceover starts and Adventure completes)
The Servant of the Flame
(Deliver a Bewitching Doll or Enchanted Bewitching Doll to The Servant of the Flame after raising the Reaper's Fort Flag at a Sea Fort)
You have done well, but the fight is far from over. Continue to bring me Dark Relics, wrenched from the grip of our enemies if you desire, and tear down any flags they use to desecrate our Sea Forts. This time, there shall be no escaping the fury of The Reaper's Bones!
Fate, it seems, does not care for a fair fight. By rights, our triumph at Molten Sands should have put an end to all that the Ancients have foreseen. The destruction of Flameheart's skull was a victory by any measure. If we cannot prevent the Time of Resurrection, then we must change the rules. Fulfil the prophecy and summon Flameheart from the Sea of the Damned. The vessel we have prepared for his soul will be his prison. A means of exiling him to forgotten shores, beyond the reach of his son. To open the gateway, Pendragon has chosen to defy fate. His beloved blade will be forever stained by Flameheart's essence - and if we should fail, the Champion of Souls, who might have been our greatest ally, will be lost.
Journal Location:
Points of Power
(On a table at the north-east end of the upper sleeping quarters, Royal Crest Fortress.)
As Arthur so eloquently put it, "For a figment of some old soldier's imagination, those Sea Forts are proving remarkably troublesome." When the Reapers worked to bring six fortifications through from the Sea of the Damned, I should have known there was a greater purpose to it all. Just as six Flames of Fate gathered at the Fort of the Damned can create a bridge between the worlds, so too can these bastions of cruelty. The energies the Forts now channel infusing the Dark Relics hidden inside them. Relics we must snatch from underneath the Reapers' masked noses. I have no hope of controlling the Sea Forts without aid, and nor does the Servant. It seems, therefore, our fates are once again in pirate hands...
The moment has arrived, and it has been prepared for. Even in defeat, the Herald of the Flame has found his place in the prophecy. His lifeless skull shall be transformed by the ritual into a form befitting my father. When I was a boy, on one of his infrequent visits to our estate, he presented me with a fine chess set - spoils from one of his conquests, no doubt. He bade me study each finely-carved piece; to understand not only how they acted, but why, and the strategies that would see them properly arranged. At long last, our pieces are in place, set in service of our King. All those fools can do now is delay the inevitable. There is no avoiding destiny.
Journal Location:
Tactics
(On a bench in the south-west corner of the large mess hall, Mercy's End Fortress.)
The glorious fire that burns in the heart of a true Reaper is a marvel to behold, but not all crews are experienced in the ways of deceit. I have taken pains to impress the value of strategy to our followers. The sea is an ever-shifting battleground, and no single approach will be best. Some crews may choose to strike a fort swiftly, ferrying Bewitching Dolls to me as soon as they are able for a decisive victory. Others may choose to linger at the forts, perhaps leaving pirates behind to defend them for as long as possible, surprising our enemies. Whatever path they choose, I trust that our Reapers will prove more than a match for those who oppose them. They will prevail, and the flame will burn!
Journal Location:
Progress Log
VIEW PROGRESS LOG
Beginning the Adventure
The Time of Resurrection has arrived. Both Belle and the Servant of the Flame have very different motivations, but both will require the help of pirates to see their plans succeed.
Chapter One End
At Shipwreck Bay, Belle reveals that Pendragon has placed his life on the line in a bid to prevent Flameheart's return. At The Reaper's Hideout, meanwhile, Flameheart's followers are more determined than ever to bring about his return.
Chapter Two Start Bewitching Dolls, a particular type of Dark Relic, are vital to both sides' plans. They must be taken from captured Sea Forts by pirates and delivered to either Belle or the Servant of the Flame.
Chapter Two End
As crews choose sides, the Sea of Thieves is plunged into the chaos of a battle for control that will either see the Outposts liberated from a looming threat - or the triumphant return of Captain Flameheart. Only time will tell what fate awaits the Sea of Thieves...
Trivia
Over the course of the Results twitch stream, the following statistics for the adventure were provided.
Bewitching dolls delivered: 438,488
Enchanted bewitching dolls delivered: 271,065
Bewitching dolls delivered to a team with total fort control: 17,698
