Empyrean Weapon

Empyrean Weapons are sixteen weapons in Final Fantasy XI obtainable through a series of weapon trials as part of the Trial of the Magians. It is prophesied that the weapons, which are embed with moogle magic, will slumber until such time as adventurers will wield them to avert calamity from befalling the world.

Empyrean Weapons are the third set of legendary arms to be introduced in Final Fantasy XI and require purchase of the various Abyssea battle add-ons to obtain and further upgrade. Similar to Relic Weapons, Empyrean Weapons are divided by the fourteen weapon types that have weapon skills (which means all weapon types other than Throwing) and also include an additional shield and instrument.

Players must undergo numerous trials, starting from the base weapon obtain from a splintery chest in Ru'Lude Gardens to obtain the Empyrean Weapons. However, depending on which path of trials they choose, they may not necessarily upgrade to an Empyrean Weapon. The trials included in upgrading towards an Empyrean Weapon typically involve defeating specific Notorious Monsters a number of times, and collecting the battle trophies of certain High Notorious Monsters.

All damage dealing Empyrean Weapons come with unique weapon skills that can only be found in one other weapon of its kind, obtained through similar trials to the Empyrean Weapons themselves. However, these other weapons do not receive the bonus Aftermath effects granted when using the special weapon skills - the Aftermath effects are unique to Empyrean Weapons. Furthermore, once upgraded to the final Level 99 Afterglow form, these aftermath abilities can be imbued temporarily to allies.

Although the initial level of a "completed" Empyrean Weapon is 80, it does not gain its unique weapon skill and aftermath effects until it is upgraded to its level 85 version. As of 2012, each weapon can be upgraded to its elevated Level 99 form, granting the Afterglow ability.