The Enigmatic Bearers of Final Fantasy 16: Unveiling Their Mysterious Powers!

In Final Fantasy 16, the story revolves around conflicts among people, kingdoms, and even deities. A significant aspect of the plot centers around the existence of Bearers, individuals who possess the extraordinary ability to use magic without the need for any catalyst. The role that Bearers play in the various kingdoms and the world as a whole forms a crucial part of the game's narrative, leading players to question their origins.

Throughout the history of Final Fantasy 16, Bearers have faced a long and tragic journey of oppression, enslavement, and mistreatment. The game fearlessly portrays the severity of their mistreatment at the hands of different factions aiming to gain control over Valisthea. Seeking an end to their suffering becomes a major part of Clive's quest. This article explores the nature of Bearers and delves into their historical background, so be prepared for some spoilers regarding the plot.

What Are Bearers? - The Basics

A Bearer is essentially a person who possesses the exceptional capability to manipulate Aether and perform magic without relying on a crystal catalyst. This extraordinary gift, however, has caused them to be both highly sought after and deeply feared by those who lack such abilities. Consequently, throughout history, Bearers have been subjected to a long-standing pattern of enslavement and mistreatment, as opportunistic individuals have sought to exploit their powers.

Remarkably, the various nations within Valisthea do not recognize Bearers as fully human, often treating them as mere commodities to be bought and sold. They are commonly referred to as Branded, and there is a side quest in the later stages of the game that provides insights into the tattooed marks on their faces. These marks are made using ink extracted from Wyvern Tail Flowers and their removal can be perilous and potentially fatal, unless performed by a highly skilled surgeon.

Throughout the game, there are numerous instances where Bearers are treated as mere tools by their "masters," whether it be filling wells or tending to forges. Furthermore, Bearers are subject to various forms of mistreatment, abuse, and even being killed for sport by certain noble individuals.

Bearers who are deemed "worthless" due to factors such as fragility, age, or injury are frequently abandoned or left to perish. Disturbingly, a particular individual has established an order called the "Black Shields" whose sole purpose is to mercilessly execute Bearers across the entire realm, solely driven by her disdain for them and her belief that they undermine her son's authority.

What Are Bearers? - The Cost of their "Gift"

Despite the previously mentioned mistreatment of Bearers, their use of power comes at an even greater cost. The act of utilizing Aether to perform spells results in a gradual transformation of their bodies, turning them into stone and crystal. Due to the long and excessive usage of their abilities, which is common among many Bearers as a result of their mistreatment, this transformation occurs at a significantly accelerated rate. Ultimately, this leads to a painful and agonizing demise. In the later stages of this affliction, numerous Bearers are abandoned and left to perish by their "Masters" who no longer find them useful. Fortunately, the kindness of certain individuals spares some from facing this fate alone.

What Are Bearers? - Lost History (Spoilers for the Side Quest "An Inconvenient Truth")

Throughout history, there have been different interpretations and histories surrounding the Bearers, but many of the accounts have been deliberately erased to rationalize the cruel treatment they endured. According to certain tales, it is believed that they carry a curse that the Gods placed on humanity as punishment for rebelling against their desires.

For a more comprehensive account of the Bearers' history and their origins, players can embark on a side quest called "An Inconvenient Truth" in the later stages of the game. This quest leads Clive to uncover a book called "From a Distance," which offers an alternative perspective on the history of the Bearers and sheds light on the true meaning behind their name.

Content must be written in English: During the quest, it is recognized that history can be interpreted from various viewpoints and that only certain events can be substantiated. However, this book plays a crucial role in revealing forgotten aspects of Bearer history. According to "From a Distance," Bearers were once revered as living Crystals, bestowed with divine power as a sacred blessing. They were regarded as chosen individuals, elevated to positions of authority and given the title of "Bearer," derived from the notion of being a recipient of the Heavenly Blessing.

The deep respect for their own kind ultimately resulted in the establishment of a religion governed and guided by the Bearers themselves, which created tensions among those in authority. While authorities were accepting of the Bearers holding power within their respective organizations, they became wary of an autonomous organization exclusively led by and tailored for the Bearers.

Consequently, multiple efforts were made to suppress the Church and its adherents, including measures like forbidding members from occupying official positions and forcibly expelling them from their residences. Additionally, the Church's gatherings were forcefully disrupted, prompting the organization to organize a volunteer army to combat this persecution.

In spite of their effort to resist, a vicious cycle of violence and bitterness ensued, drawing clear divisions between the favored few and the rest. Consequently, a ferocious conflict erupted throughout Valisthea known as the "Deluge of Blood," resulting in the crushing of the Bearer resistance and the establishment of the "Continental Accord."

The Accord implemented a system of Bearer enslavement that continues to exist throughout Valisthea. It notably proclaimed the dehumanization of Bearers as "Other Than Human," effectively justifying their enslavement and exploitation. PS5 users can now enjoy playing Final Fantasy 16.