Years have passed since a disturbance has gained enough momentum to afflict the world. Despite constant searching, Angela has not been found and little hope remains that the would-be leader of Truce will ever come up. Following a quite calm day, a sudden disruption was let loose and rippled throughout the land in the form of a massive earthquake. The brigade of heroes in training, in their somewhat typical resting place - the fountain of Truce, was startled by the tumultuous earthly behavior. After taking much time to question the unfolding events, the heroes were soon treated to a spectacular light show as a huge ray of green light was shot right above their heads. Via the powers of coincidence, an old man, who later introduced himself to be Zebu the Sage, stumbled upon our unlikely group - as he was carrying out an investigation regarding the earthquake and light.
The group, with their new addition, talked for awhile before they were greeted by an unlikely guest, the Avatar of the Godbeast, Mispolm. Emerging from the falling light the Avatar made his way from the beach and into the center of Truce. Seeing this as a threat the heroes made an attempt to attack but were defeated, after which the Avatar took off with Zebu and fled the scene. After much searching and detective work, the group manages to come across Zebu and his assailant. With the appearance of Dryad and the introduction of Dr. Wily as another of the Mana Stone searchers, the group seems to have much to think about. Caught up in a frantic search to save Dryad, despite her urgings against the notion, the group sets off, however, a cloaked figure stays behind - the one referred to as Dragus.
A few days pass, and then a week, before another disturbance presents itself to the land; this time a small tremor in the northeastern part of the world. The group, ready for action and adventure, sets off to investigate only to be met with a very aggressive environment. The once peaceful city of Wutai now lay covered in thorny vines and swarming with pumpkinhead guardsmen. Evidently, as the group left for Truce to recuperate and discuss, the Avatar began to slowly plant his seeds of terror through the city. Now Wutai is no more the exotic city it used to be, but a mere stronghold for the Avatar - who is rapidly gaining power and influence. With many failed attempts the group tried and tried its best to enter, but the guards proved to be unnaturally powerful. Spirits down, and heads hung low the group returned to Truce, only to encounter Zebu. With a frustrated look and an angry tone, Zebu alerts the group of his disappointments and mentions going researching, for he's heard of something that may help the city. With that, the old sage sets out, leaving the group befuddled and upset, leaving the people behind with a false sense of hope and mystery.