Ascians

The Ascians are a fictional faction in Final Fantasy XIV, an enigmatic order of immortal beings who originate from the Void and influence events across the world of Hydaelyn. They are secretive manipulators who pursue the restoration of their deity, Zodiark, by guiding or provoking crises and political upheavals rather than confronting foes openly.

Origins and nature: The Ascians trace their lineage to an ancient civilization tied to the worship of Zodiark. After cataclysmic events, they fled into the Void and exist as intangible, long-lived entities. To interact with the material world, they inhabit hosts or manipulate others, a process that allows them to exert influence while remaining concealed from most mortals.

Goals and methods: Their central aim is believed to be the revival or reestablishment of Zodiark, often described in terms of a desired “Rejoining” with Hydaelyn. They operate through networks of agents and cults, shaping religious, political, and magical currents to create opportunities for their ritual. Their methods are typically covert and deceptive, avoiding direct confrontation whenever possible.

Role in the story: Across multiple story arcs, Ascians function as principal antagonists who work behind the scenes, clashing with the Scions of the Seventh Dawn and the player’s adventuring party. While their rhetoric emphasizes balance and order, their actions frequently cause harm or instability in pursuit of their goals. The true extent of their motives and loyalties remains a recurring mystery within the game’s lore.

Notable figures: Among the more prominent Ascian figures is Elidibus, who serves as a leading voice within Ascian society. The organization comprises various agents and factions, whose identities and allegiances shift over time as the broader narrative unfolds.