Breaking the Order
As your Ravensthorpe settlement grows and flourishes, so too does your understanding of the shadowy forces at play in England. The Order of the Ancients, a clandestine organization seeking to control the land, will become a primary target for Eivor. This section guides you through the intricate process of identifying, tracking, and ultimately eliminating these powerful individuals. Breaking the Order is not just about combat; it's about unraveling a vast conspiracy, gathering intelligence, and making strategic choices that impact the future of England.
Your journey to dismantle the Order begins early in your adventures, often triggered by specific story quests or by simply exploring the world and discovering clues. Each member of the Order requires a unique approach, sometimes involving specific quests, sometimes requiring you to find hidden clues in the environment, and sometimes simply being found in the world. Be prepared for challenging encounters and moral dilemmas as you peel back the layers of their influence.
Unveiling the Order's Members
The Order of the Ancients is comprised of numerous members, each with a unique identity and role. To reveal a member's identity and location, you must first gather clues. These clues are often found in the following ways:
- Main Story Quests: Many Order members are revealed naturally as you progress through the main narrative arcs in various regions.
- World Events & Side Quests: Some smaller quests or world events will lead you directly to a clue or even an Order member themselves.
- Hidden Documents & Letters: Keep an eye out for scrolls, letters, and other documents in enemy camps, monasteries, and civilian settlements. These often contain vital information.
- Eliminating Zealots: The powerful Zealots roaming England are also members of the Order. Defeating them not only grants you valuable gear but also reveals clues for other Order members.
- Specific Order Quests: As you progress, Hytham at your Hidden Ones Bureau in Ravensthorpe will provide specific quests to hunt down certain Order members.
Once you have enough clues for a specific Order member, their identity and general location will be revealed on your Order menu (accessible via your map screen). This will allow you to track them down and plan your approach.
Strategies for Elimination
Eliminating Order members can range from straightforward assassinations to complex boss battles. Here are some general strategies:
- Scout Thoroughly: Before engaging, use your raven, Synin, to scout the area. Identify patrol routes, enemy types, potential entry points, and environmental hazards.
- Stealth is Key: Many Order members are vulnerable to a well-executed assassination. use bushes, tall grass, and rooftops to approach undetected. The Advanced Assassination skill is invaluable here.
- Exploit Weaknesses: Pay attention to enemy weaknesses if you're forced into open combat. Headshots, weak points, and parries can quickly turn the tide.
- Gear Up: Ensure your gear is upgraded and you have a good supply of rations and arrows. Some Order members are formidable opponents.
- Prioritize Zealots: Zealots are often encountered in the open world. Be prepared for a tough fight, and consider engaging them from a distance with arrows or luring them into traps if possible.
Successfully eliminating Order members not only brings you closer to dismantling the entire organization but also rewards you with valuable skill points, experience, and unique gear. Return to Hytham after each elimination to report your success and receive further guidance.