Final Fantasy XVI introduces players to a variety of challenging optional bosses through the Notorious Marks system at the Hunt Board. Tracking down these unique targets provides valuable crafting materials, experience points, and Gil essential for upgrading Clive's build. Among these early high-tier challenges is The Nine of Knives, an aggressive Rank A human boss that tests your mechanical defensive instincts.
How to Unlock The Nine of Knives Bounty
This elusive target becomes available only after players progress to a specific segment of the main narrative campaign. You must actively begin the Out of the Shadow main quest before the bill formally registers on the Hunt Board at the Hideaway. Once this prerequisite milestone is successfully completed, Nektar the Moogle will display the official bounty description for players to inspect.
Preparing before heading directly into battle ensures you can manage the swift offensive capabilities of this rogue warrior. It is highly recommended to upgrade your current gear and maximize your preferred Eikonic abilities at the Hideaway. Having a reliable rotation ready allows you to break through the target's stagger bar quickly during the chaotic encounter.
The Nine of Knives Map Location Guide
To pinpoint this target, players must fast travel directly to the Dhalmekian Republic region using the available world map landmarks. The closest waypoint to your final objective is The Jaw obelisk, situated on the southern edges of the territory. After arriving at the checkpoint, you must head immediately north along the primary canyon pathway leading toward the open desert.
The boss waits along the narrow trail in the middle of the rocky valley pathways before you fully emerge into the wider wastes. You will easily spot a solitary Dhalmekian warrior dressed in distinct scout attire standing directly in your path. Approaching this menacing figure will instantly trigger the cinematic introduction and begin the intense Rank A combat encounter.
Combat Strategies and Attack Patterns
The Nine of Knives utilizes incredibly fast close-quarters combinations alongside dangerous poisonous projectile tools. One of his signature tactical maneuvers is Poison Mist, which sprays a toxic cloud across the immediate battlefield area to limit your movement. Players must avoid stepping into the lingering green vapors while maintaining a close distance to land physical counters.
Another dangerous ability to watch closely for is Smokescreen, which temporarily blinds your view and allows the boss to reposition instantly. When the air clears, be completely prepared to execute a precision dodge against his incoming lunging thrust. Punishing these predictable physical recoveries with Clive's massive Eikonic counterattacks will quickly drain his health pool.
Rewards for Completing the Hunt
Defeating this agile adversary rewards players with excellent progression assets that justify the dangerous journey into the canyons. Clive receives a substantial amount of character experience points alongside a generous payout of ability points and Gil. These foundational resources allow you to broaden your tactical options and unlock advanced magical skills.
Additionally, you will secure rare crafting materials required to forge high-tier armor and weapons at Blackthorne's forge. Collecting these exclusive items ensures your offensive stats scale properly against the increasingly brutal enemies found in late-game regions. Conquering this challenge marks a significant milestone in mastering the overall combat system.
