Starfield
Starfield

In Their Footsteps

Navigate Starfield's In Their Footsteps mission, confronting the Emissary and the Hunter to learn the truth about the Unity and the artifacts.

·Multi-source verified (70/70)

In Their Footsteps

This pivotal main mission thrusts you deeper into the mysteries of the Unity and the Starborn. You'll finally have the opportunity to directly confront the Emissary and the Hunter, uncovering their motivations and the true nature of the artifacts. Be prepared for extensive dialogue, difficult choices, and potential combat.

Meeting the Emissary and the Hunter

Upon initiating "In Their Footsteps," you'll receive a communication from the Emissary, requesting a meeting. This encounter will take place at a pre-determined location, often a neutral, isolated planet or moon. Follow these steps:

  1. Grav Jump to the Designated System: Open your Starmap and navigate to the system highlighted for the mission. It will typically be a system you haven't extensively explored yet, ensuring a sense of isolation for the meeting.
  2. Land at the Rendezvous Point: Once in the system, a new landing zone will appear on a celestial body. Select it and land your ship.
  3. Locate the Emissary's Ship: Upon landing, you'll see the distinctive Starborn vessel of the Emissary. Approach it.
  4. Initiate Dialogue: As you get close, a dialogue prompt will appear. This is your chance to speak with both the Emissary and, surprisingly, the Hunter, who will also be present.

The Starborn's Proposition: Understanding the Unity

This conversation is dense with lore and critical decisions. Pay close attention to their explanations regarding the Unity, the artifacts, and the cycle of the Starborn. They will present you with a choice regarding the future of the artifacts and humanity's path to the Unity.

  • Listen Carefully: The Emissary and the Hunter will offer differing perspectives. The Emissary advocates for a controlled, guided approach to the Unity, while the Hunter believes in a more chaotic, merit-based system.
  • Ask Probing Questions: use all available dialogue options to delve deeper into their philosophies. Ask about their origins, their goals, and the consequences of their proposed paths.
  • Consider Your Companions' Input: Your active companion will likely interject with their own opinions. Their perspectives can offer valuable insight, especially if you have a strong bond with them.

The Choice: Aligning with a Vision

The core of "In Their Footsteps" revolves around a monumental decision: whose philosophy do you align with, if any? You'll be presented with options that will significantly impact the remainder of the main questline and potentially your relationship with certain factions.

  • Option 1: Side with the Emissary: This path generally involves a more measured, protective approach to the artifacts, aiming to prevent their misuse. The Emissary believes in guiding humanity towards a responsible understanding of the Unity.
  • Option 2: Side with the Hunter: This choice aligns with a more ruthless, "survival of the fittest" mentality. The Hunter believes that only the strongest and most determined should reach the Unity, and that conflict is a necessary part of the process.
  • Option 3: Reject Both: It is possible to express your disapproval of both their methods and declare your intent to forge your own path. This can lead to a more challenging, independent journey towards the Unity.

Strategy Tip: There is no "wrong" answer here, but your choice will dictate who you ally with (or against) in future encounters. Consider your own character's moral compass and desired playstyle. If you prefer direct confrontation, the Hunter's path might appeal. If you favor diplomacy and caution, the Emissary's vision might be more fitting. Rejecting both offers maximum narrative freedom but can be the most difficult path.

After the Decision: Immediate Repercussions

Once you've made your choice, the conversation will conclude, and the mission will update. Depending on your decision, you may receive immediate instructions or a new objective to pursue. Be prepared for potential shifts in your relationships with certain NPCs and factions, as news of your alignment may spread.

  • New Mission Objectives: Expect to receive a new main quest, directly influenced by your choice, guiding you towards the next step in acquiring the remaining artifacts.
  • Potential Hostility: If you chose to reject both Starborn, or if your choice directly opposes one of them, be aware that future encounters might involve combat with the opposing Starborn. Ensure your ship and personal gear are up to par.
  • Companion Reactions: Your companions will react strongly to your decision. Some may approve, while others may express disappointment or even consider leaving your crew if your choice fundamentally clashes with their beliefs.

Completing "In Their Footsteps" marks a significant turning point in your Starfield journey, solidifying your path towards the Unity and shaping the challenges that lie ahead.