Learn how to complete A Fleeting Thought in Ghost of Yotei, assist the Matsumae scout, defeat Saito’s soldiers, and earn rewards.
You can’t really pick up the A Fleeting Thought side quest in Ghost of Yotei; it finds you. Once you finish the prologue, head east of Jade Grove in the Yotei Grasslands. The quest automatically starts once you enter that area, so you don’t have to talk to anyone to trigger it.
As you move through the grasslands, you will hear fighting. A Matsumae scout is being overrun by Saito’s soldiers, completely outnumbered and struggling to stay alive. It’s an easy scene to miss if you are rushing through exploration, but it’s worth stopping for. You get a sense of how fragile the truce between factions really is here.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know to complete A Fleeting Thought in Ghost of Yotei.
Steps To Finish A Fleeting Thought in Ghost of Yotei
Once you are in the area east of Jade Grove, the action kicks off fast. You will see the scout surrounded by Saito’s men on a small hill. Jump in before he gets overwhelmed.

Your main task is to take out all of Saito’s soldiers in the area. Expect three types of opponents:
- Standard Outlaws: Sword-wielding grunts who attack in groups.
- Spear Fighters: They’ve got reach, so wait for an opening.
- Archers: These stay back and chip away at your health if ignored.
Focus on the archers first, then deal with the close-range enemies. Keep an eye on coloured attack cues; blue or red glints tell you whether to block or dodge. You can choose how to approach this fight:
- Stealth option: Stay low, move through the bushes, and use assassinations to thin the herd quietly. You will save your health and spirit this way.
- Direct fight: If you would rather get your hands dirty, go all in. Swap between katana and dual katana depending on who you are facing. The dual blades handle long weapons better, while the katana gives balance and control.
Using spirit abilities or Onryo powers can also make a difference, especially if you are still adjusting to timing your parries.
Once everyone’s down, Atsu automatically walks up to the surviving scout. They will share a quick exchange that gives context about Saito’s growing aggression and the Matsumae clan’s struggles to keep territory. The chat is brief but important; it helps you understand what’s really happening across the Yotei region.
A Fleeting Thought Mission Rewards
When the dust settles, you will receive a Traveler’s Map as your main reward. This map helps track Saito’s troop locations, but if you already have it, you won’t get a duplicate.
If you are exploring nearby, check out:
- The Blue-Flowered Cemetery, tied to the Crow Genzo bounty.
- Altar of Reflection, where you can earn skill points.
- The base route to Mount Yotei, which opens up new exploration spots later.

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