The Empire Group sees a group of Scorpionfolk Faunus half-stuck in the desert on the way to Elysia right after a sandstorm. After approaching them, they discover a massive swarm of Death Scarab Beetles: Scarabs that have become necrotic monsters after eating undead flesh. They feast on human flesh and are usually around when Liches are. After dealing with the swarm, the Scorpionfolk give them gifts and explain their worries: a strange disease has been spreading through the Decaying Frontier, more undead are appearing, etc. Then, the party continue on their way to Elysia.