The First Men is one of the side quests in Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon. In this quest, you’ll meet a scholar named Imran, explore a hidden grotto, and discover clues about an ancient race that may have lived on Avalon long before King Arthur.
How to Start the First Men Side Quest
The quest starts in Varel’s Bookshop. Inside, you’ll meet a scholar named Imran. Talk to him, and you’ll quickly realize he’s no ordinary academic. He’s a Pict, one of the old folk who roam Avalon, and he’s got a theory, one that could rewrite the island’s history. According to some ancient writings he found, there were people living on Avalon long before King Arthur or the rest of humanity ever set foot here.
He tells you about the Grotto of the First Men, a mysterious location tied to an ancient tribe from the far north. Sadly, he’s injured and can’t go himself. He tells you with his notes and asks you to investigate the site.
Grotto Location
Once you’ve accepted the task, follow the map and Imran’s notes. The grotto is tucked away in a remote corner of Avalon, likely behind areas full of danger, wild creatures, and plenty of Weirdness. Bring torches, healing items, and weapons strong enough to handle whatever you might run into.
Inside the Grotto – Meet the Construct
Once you arrive at the Grotto of the First Men, things get strange. Inside, you’ll awaken a Construct, a mysterious ancient being part spirit, part machine. It recognizes something in you, a spark, a soul mark. The construct speaks cryptically, offering clues about the people who once lived here the First Men. They didn’t just survive the Weirdness. They might’ve even lived in harmony with it. The construct gifts you an item and hints at more knowledge buried in this sacred place.
Cave Paintings and a Hidden Legacy
After your encounter, take your time to explore the cave. Look for cave paintings, bone remains, and carvings, all of which suggest the First Men were intelligent, evolved, and perhaps even ahead of their time in understanding Avalon’s strange nature.
Return to Imran
Once you’ve finished exploring and collected everything of interest, head back to Imran in the bookshop. He’s thrilled by your findings. The construct’s activation proves his theory true: Avalon was once home to an older race,one that evolved beyond fear of the Weirdness.