FF WalkthroughWith the Black Chocobo, you can finally visit Lix, Bartz's hometown. It's a small village tucked away in the mountains, and reaching it on foot would've been impossible. Istory, another hidden village, sits nearby with its own secrets.
Lix Village
Land in the forest near Lix and walk into town. Bartz hasn't been home in years. He left after his father died, unable to face the memories. Now he's back, and the townspeople remember him.
Talk to the villagers for backstory. They'll mention Bartz's parents: Dorgann, a warrior who traveled the world, and Stella, who died when Bartz was young. The grave behind the house belongs to Stella. Examining it triggers a flashback showing Bartz's promise to his dying father to explore the world.
This is entirely optional story content. No major items or abilities require visiting Lix. But it fleshes out Bartz's character and explains why he's been wandering alone since the game started.
The Bard near the Inn teaches the Love Song if you have a Bard. Love Song inflicts Confuse on enemies when played in battle. Situationally useful.
Istory Village
Istory hides in a forest on a different continent. Fly around until you spot a forest surrounded by mountains with no obvious town visible. Land there and walk around; you'll find the hidden village entrance.
Istory's shops sell some of the best equipment available at this point. The prices are high, but the gear is worth it. Check the weapon and armor shops if you've got Gil to spare.
The real prize here is the Ramuh summon. He waits in the forest east of town.
Recruiting Ramuh
Walk into the forest near Istory and search for Ramuh. Unlike Ifrit, you don't fight him. Instead, talk to him. He asks if you're worthy of his power. Answer yes, and he joins your summon roster.
Ramuh casts Thundara-level lightning damage on all enemies. He's free; no boss fight required. Just find him and ask nicely.
SUMMON OBTAINED
Ramuh - Lightning-elemental summon that hits all enemies. Costs 12 MP. Excellent against water-based enemies and mechanical foes.
If you can't find Ramuh immediately, wander the forest more. He's there; you just need to walk over the right tile. Some players miss him entirely because they don't explore thoroughly.
Istory Secrets
Istory has a few hidden interactions. Talk to the sheep in the village pen; one of them might say something strange. There's also a waterfall behind the village with a hidden cave. This cave leads to an optional boss later in the game, but you can't access it yet.
The flower garden in town holds another secret: playing certain songs here has special effects. If you have a Bard, experiment with different songs while standing in the flowers.
Treasures
| Item | Location |
|---|---|
Ramuh (Summon) | Forest east of Istory - defeat in battle |
Love Song | Lix, talk to the Bard near the Inn |
300 Gil | Lix, barrel near the Item shop |
Next Steps
You've now got Ifrit and Ramuh for your Summoner. Combined with Shiva from earlier (if you found her), you've got solid elemental coverage. Head back toward the desert region; the Lonka Ruins await. Look for a massive floating structure in the sky; that's your destination. The ruins hold the Earth Crystal and some of the toughest enemies you've faced yet.