Factions & Important NPCs
Navigating the complex political and social landscape of Ancient Egypt requires understanding the key players and the factions they represent. This section will detail the major groups and influential individuals you'll encounter, providing strategies for interaction, questlines, and notable rewards.
The Medjay
As Bayek, you are the last Medjay of Siwa, a traditional protector of the people. This faction, though dwindling, represents justice and order in a chaotic land. Your primary objective throughout the game is to uphold the Medjay's oath and seek vengeance for your son, Khemu.
- Key Quests: Your entire journey is a Medjay quest. Early examples include "The Oasis," where you begin your pursuit of the Order, and "Egypt's Medjay," which solidifies your role as a protector in Alexandria.
- Interactions: Many NPCs will recognize and respect your Medjay status, often offering side quests or information. Conversely, those aligned with the Order will view you as a threat.
- Benefits: Completing main quests as the Medjay unlocks new regions, abilities, and advances the overarching narrative. Your reputation can also influence merchant prices in certain areas.
The Order of the Ancients
The primary antagonists of Assassin's Creed Origins, the Order of the Ancients are a shadowy cabal manipulating the pharaoh and controlling Egypt from behind the scenes. They are responsible for the death of Khemu and are your ultimate target.
- Identifying Members: Each member of the Order is a "target" with a unique codename (e.g., "The Heron," "The Scarab"). Their identities are often revealed through investigations, interrogations, and completing specific main quests.
- Strategies for Elimination:
- Reconnaissance: Always use Senu to scout enemy strongholds, identify targets, and mark guards. Look for weak points, patrol routes, and hidden entrances.
- Stealth: Many Order members are heavily guarded. Prioritize stealth takedowns using your Hidden Blade. use sleep darts or poison darts to thin out patrols without raising alarms.
- Combat: If direct confrontation is unavoidable, ensure your gear is upgraded. Focus on parrying, dodging, and using overpower attacks. Equipping a powerful Hunter Bow like the "Composite Bow" for ranged damage can be crucial.
- Rewards: Eliminating Order members is essential for story progression and often yields valuable legendary weapons, armor, or unique crafting materials. For example, defeating "The Heron" might drop a legendary sword like "Hepzefa's Sword."
Ptolemaic Dynasty & Roman Empire
Egypt is caught in a power struggle between Cleopatra VII and her brother, Ptolemy XIII, with the encroaching Roman Empire, led by Julius Caesar, playing a pivotal role.
- Cleopatra VII:
- Role: An important ally in your fight against the Order. She seeks to reclaim her throne and sees Bayek as a valuable asset.
- Quests: You will undertake several main quests directly for Cleopatra, such as those found in Alexandria, like "Egypt's Medjay," where you first formally meet her.
- Interaction: Maintain a good relationship with Cleopatra as her support is vital for uncovering the Order's deeper machinations.
- Ptolemy XIII:
- Role: The current pharaoh, heavily influenced by the Order of the Ancients. He is an indirect antagonist.
- Encounters: You will primarily encounter Ptolemy's forces and loyalists, who will be hostile.
- Julius Caesar:
- Role: A powerful Roman general whose intervention in Egypt's civil war has profound consequences.
- Influence: Caesar's presence shifts the political landscape significantly. His forces will be present in key areas like Alexandria. Be mindful of Roman patrols, as they can be neutral or hostile depending on the quest and your actions.
Important NPCs
Beyond the major factions, several individuals play crucial roles in Bayek's journey, offering quests, insights, or support.
- Aya: Bayek's wife and a formidable warrior in her own right. She is a central figure in the narrative and a key ally in your quest for vengeance.
- Role: Provides critical information, initiates major questlines, and occasionally fights alongside you.
- Quests: Many main quests, particularly those involving the Order, will involve working with Aya.
- Hepzefa: Bayek's loyal friend and fellow Medjay.
- Role: Offers guidance and support in Siwa.
- Location: Primarily found in Siwa.
- Quests: Involved in early quests like "Family Reunion" and "Water Rats."
- Phanos: A contact in Alexandria who aids Bayek.
- Role: Provides information and safe houses in Alexandria.
- Location: Alexandria.
- Quests: Crucial for establishing your presence in Alexandria during quests like "Egypt's Medjay."
- Tahira: A local healer in Siwa.
- Role: Provides medical aid and information.
- Location: Siwa.
- Quests: Involved in the early quest "The Healer."