Edda

Balls. Oh well, a man can dream...

SKY PIRATES CONFIRMED SKY PIRATES CONFIRMED SKY PIRATES CONFIRMED

The Forgotten Knight was not quite what Edda had expected. Luxury and warmth was far from what she had hoped to see, but the state of disrepair yet popularity of the site was another thing altogether. The stairway that led down to the front desk was littered with bystanders, the main area itself standing room only. The din of voices and commotion was overpowering. Edda pushed her way through the crowd to approach the front desk, and could scarcely hear Roen’s voice as she spoke. Something about ‘not venturing too far,’ and the next time Edda looked over her shoulder, the woman was gone. As the paladin had warned prior, the price on a room was certainly high. Not unaffordable, but enough to make the woman wrinkle her nose in distaste. Surely the state of the room would not be worth the asking price, and as Edda and Khadai made their way to their separate rooms, her prediction was quite right. A thin sheen of dust seemed to cover every piece of furniture in the room, empty bottles and forgotten belongings from the last tenant still strewn about the floor. The bed had not been properly made, giving rise to the question if the sheets were even fresh. At the very least, the fireplace was lit, leaving the room at a comfortable temperature. It was livable – if barely. Edda deposited her belongings before making her way out and locking the door. She knocked once on Khadai’s door and received no answer. The man had presumably left to meet with Roen, and though Edda did not recall where she had said to meet, she set out in the hopes of finding them. Now alone and free to wander, Edda found herself quickly lost in the imposing layout of the city. It was an imposing yet beautiful city, the architecture ancient and intricate – a far cry from the simplicity found in Vylbrand. That such a metropolis lay under constant threat of attack from Dravania seemed too much of a waste, and she found herself staring for quite some time at the decapitated statues and crumbling spires. She meandered aimlessly, the area not over-crowded, and as she stood at a ledge staring out over the Sea of Clouds, the sound of two familiar voices drifted to hear ear. “…I believe I know what you will say. I wish to… be less noticeable in this environment,” said a rumbling voice. “It is impossibly in some ways, but it can be mitigated somewhat.” “Aye, less you stand out the better. Although there is no hiding who you are but,” responded a more familiar voice, even and assured. “I suppose you are not the first Au Ra to arrive here. Perhaps if your appearance looked more… acclimated…”A pause. “Where… is Edda…?” “…I do not know.” The conversation was unmistakable, and Edda turned to look over her shoulder for the source, sweeping her gaze across the large, open square. Khadai’s form stood out like a sore thumb. He stood some fulms away next to Roen, both having their backs turned to her. The paladin pursed her lips. “I see.” She frowned then shrugged. “We can wait here awhile. You are accustomed to other forms of armor?” “In a manner, though the terrain in my land demands mobility over defense. There is a saying…” He frowned, pausing in thought. “I believe it would go, ‘fear the warrior who bears no scars.’ Avoiding wounds altogether is preferable to being wounded and surviving. “…You are equipped with martial training. What manner of defense do you recommend?” He gestured to her armor. “Your armor appears to carry far more metal than is needed, and limits your ability to maneuver in mountainous terrain. Is such heavy defense necessary?” Edda smiled to herself at their civil conversation. To think that the two started out on such a bad note… It was true, what Khadai had said two nights past, that Roen’s training as a fighter would provide some grounds for reconciliation. Still smiling, Edda made her way over to the two, hoping she would quickly come into their periphery view. She kept her head bowed and said nothing so as to not interrupt the two. Roen dipped her head in thought at the Xaela’s question. “This was the armor I was trained in. Even heavier at times. It is one form of defense.” She studied her gauntlets absently. “Many wield weapons that would easily penetrate through lesser armor. Especially Dravanians. And we are not expected to run from them. You would notice that temple knights and dragoons are fairly heavily armored.” She noticed the approaching figure and turned to nod to Edda. Khadai followed her gaze with a creak of his own. “Edda. Have you rested?” She gave the two short nods, then looked at the Au Ra with a curious expression. “Er. Yes.” A strange thing to ask. She had scarcely been gone from his presence for a full twenty minutes – hardly enough time to get any sort of substantial rest. “I request your input to this subject. Without regards to defense, what manner of garment do you recommend I don? I do not wish to be so…” he paused. “Conspicuous. My behavior requires its own correction, but at the moment, physical appearance concerns me.” Roen crossed her arms and glances to the stones for a moment, a small curl to her lips. She said nothing. “Well,” Edda began. “Why not think on what it is you want to wear? Chainmail and armor would certainly help you blend in, but I doubt that is something you are at all interested in.” “I do not understand your query.” He frowned. “Though it is no fault of yours. I have only ever selected garments based on practical function. Prior to this I have not had need to pay heed to aesthetics. “What would be considered socially acceptable?” The Xaela jerked his head towards Roen. “I shall consult the stern woman over matters of defense at a later time. I would like your input.” Edda sighed. “Function over form, in this scenario. Anything that can be purchased here will be socially acceptable to some degree, and if they are not I will be sure to let you know.” The paladin narrowed her eyes and cleared her throat. “Other than blending in… what is your purpose here? Now that you are in Ishgard? Is this not the place both of you sought to reach? Your manner of clothing should reflect what you intend to do.” “She is correct. If you desire something similar to what you wear now in terms of utility, we can work from there.” Khadai looked askance at both women a few times before glancing at Roen to answer her question. “I intend to…” His statement started with confidence that fell off, his expression marred with puzzlement and confusion. “I will learn what I can of this Continent and expand my own understanding of its customs. In the meantime, I will search for information related to my objective.” Another frown. “I intend to… mingle. I believe that is the correct word.” Edda pursed her lips and looked back up to the city, the architecture once more catching her eye. The thought of Khadai attempting to mingle settled into the back of her mind, an unsure expression making its way across her face. “Tied into this is to secure a source of currency with which to conduct trade for essential supplies,” he continued. “I am to… select garb based on the profession I would adopt?” Roen blinked, just staring at the man for a moment. She slowly nodded. “Aye. If you wish to find work here, you would do well to look like you belong here. If you wish to be a sellsword, then wearing native armor would suit you. If you wish to sell things, then a merchant garb.” She did not touch on the ‘mingling’ part of his plan, and she cast Edda a sidelong glance. It seemed she shared a similar reaction, and Edda turned to look at the midline between the two, studying the distant aetheryte as if it were the most interesting thing in the land. A small smile tugged at her lips. “Edda. This function you would have me perform for you as per the terms of our agreement. Would dressing in native armor inhibit this directive you would give me?” Said woman’s gaze drifted to Khadai at the pointed question, her smile fading. “No,” she began simply. “You will need native clothes regardless of my own directives anyway. Naturally, I can provide for you as well, if need be.” “That is unnecessary. I plan on sustaining myself. I do not wish to be a burden.” A small puff of air escaped Edda’s nose in a silent snort. Ridiculous. The man turned back to Roen and continued. “Then I shall consult with you on proper garments. In addition, I was made aware of… devices? That we may use to remain in contact over distances.” Roen watched the noblewoman carefully, her eyes narrowing slightly. She turned back to Khadai at his question. “Ah. Aye. There are linkpearls…” She paused and reached into a belt pouch to retrieve a small pearl, holding it up between her fingers. “They allow you to communicate to other wearers over long distances. There are also… moogles…” A small pause. “Small creatures that deliver written missives and packages to intended recipients.” “I see.” With refreshing clarity, it seemed that he understood the straightforward manner in which the description was delivered and nodded. “We may utilize such things, then.” Another turn to Edda. “And if you are willing… I would still like to learn the written word.” Roen glanced between them, a quirk of the brow betraying her surprise. Edda merely blinked. “That is fine.” The paladin canted her head again, eyeing the noblewoman curiously. “Edda. Do you have contacts here?” “Not me personally, no.” She bit her lip. “I would have to write home for such things. Why? Have you need of any?” She rolled her shoulders. “Nay, I just thought… if you knew any of the other noble houses here, it would make your stay more hospitable. The Forgotten Knight is likely not the lodging you are used to.” There was a small rueful tug to one corner of her lips. “It is very much like Ul’dah. The have and the have-nots. Contacts would go far for you. If you intend to stay for long.” Edda glanced toward the sky, recalling the sorry state of her room. “I am not so desperate,” she began, looking back to Roen. “To need such luxury in a city I scarcely know. What need I have contacts would be only useful for a transfer of funds, and that is all.” She nodded, quite sure of herself. Though the temptation of a cleaner, softer bed was a strong one, she saw little point in folding to the unfamiliarity of such different living so soon. Such an action would scream only weakness. Roen nodded. “Alright then. Since…” She looked back to the Xaela. “…We have no idea how long your stay will be here… I suppose getting you some form of employment would be desirable? And the proper armor or equipment that is necessary?” “…I am capable of hunting for myself for sustenance, if necessary. Though, given the events in the forest, I would like to avoid doing so if at all possible.” The paladin glanced between the two of them once more. “I know of an armorsmith who is rather skilled. Although if you are going to hunt for food…” She pursed her lips. “You would do so outside the gates. It is not quite as… rigid where hunting is concerned. Coerthas is not the Shroud. But while you are at it, trading meat and leather would provide you with ways of earning currency. I was hoping Edda might have more contacts in terms of vendors and merchants here but…” She shrugged. “I can ask around.” “…Hunting is not my specialization. I know it, and certain crafts, out of practicality. I have no yet decided with what purpose I will obtain currency. But in any case you are correct. I will properly outfit myself, first and foremost. “…Edda.” He cleared his throat, almost awkwardly. A gesture unknown to the Xaela. “If you feel you have need to depart… do not hesitate to inform me. I will accompany you. I would not have you remain here for my sake and resent being tied to me out of a sense of obligation.” “Eh?” A rather ungraceful response. “N-no, you do not have you, unless you so wish to… I will pay for your inn room and whatever expenses you may need well in advance to allow you to settle in if that is what concerns you.” He shook his head. “As I said. I will sustain myself. Do not hesitate to make use of me should you require it.” “Hmph!” Edda glared at Khadai and folded her arms. “Surely you do not think you can offer something like that and expect me not to help in the only way I can. Very well, I will take heed of your offer, but in return, you will accept mine.” A brief struggle showed itself on Khadai’s face, though he nodded in acquiescence. “I agree.” Edda relaxed her stance and smiled to herself. A small victory, however crudely won. “Good.” Roen watched their exchange with some measure of curiosity, then cleared her throat. “Well then, armor will be much easier to obtain with ready funds.” “I should have enough for now, unless all of Ishgard sports exorbitant prices,” Edda said. The paladin pursed her lips. “You would be surprised. With the gates open and the merchants flooding in, commerce is…” She paused then shrugged, seemingly content to discard that thought. “I would suggest armor for work and perhaps some common clothing for the times in between.” The blonde nodded. “To start, yes…” Roen glanced to the Xaela then back to Edda. “I know that people are much less fearful of a well dressed person. That is, if you wanted to indulge in some local fashion or what not.” She almost sounded amused. Almost. Edda kept her gaze on Khadai, sizing him up from head to toe. She smiled wryly at Roen’s observation. “That is true. Especially in well-tailored clothes, hm… Though, I will have to see what they offer first.” Roen lowered her gaze slightly, hiding an odd expression that rose. “I will defer to your knowledge in this matter.” The Xaela gave a shrug, though he did tap the horns on the side of his head. “If it is all the same, I would rather they close from the front.” “Er…” Edda stared at the odd request, before her face heated, the memory of frontal exposure momentarily escaping the gaol she had fashioned for it. “What… wh- Fine. That should be fine.” The redhead squinted her eyes, studying those horns. “Perhaps they can work with that.” “I feel out of place without some manner of armour. I would prefer to accomplish that first. Before doing so, however…” He glanced towards the gates. “The terrain around the city. I suspect that regardless of my chosen profession, it will take me outside of the city. I wish to familiarize myself with the terrain before deciding. We have… linkpearls? We may use these to keep in contact?” “Ah.” Roen fingered into her belt pouch again, this time retrieving four pearls. “I did take the liberty of finding a vendor while you were settling in…” She held out her hand, four white pearls nestled within her palm. She frowned oddly at them, as if the action were somehow foreign. Edda took one pearl from Roen, frowned at it, and tucked it away safely. Khadai took one as well, examining it curiously. “Is the operation of it simple?” “I do not always wear mine… and you can have it close by. It makes a noise when someone is trying to contact you.” She placed on in her ear. “You activate it with just a slight pressure.” “…I see.” He raised the pearl to his head, frowning. His horns were rough and scaled, but there was nowhere for him to put the small sphere. “Ah—“ Edda said, realization dawning on her. She looked at Khadai quickly, her expression one of shock and embarrassment. That’s right – he had no ears, at least not ones that would accommodate a linkpearl. “…I do not believe these are constructed with Au Ra in mind.” Roen squinted suddenly. Then blinked. Then her eyes widened. “How do you hear?” She asked rather bluntly. She canted her head, as if trying to get a better look. “I do not understand the question.” She parted her lips then closed them for a moment in thought. She shook her head. “Ah. I just… do not understand much about your kind. I suppose you hear in other ways.” She tapped her ear where she had plugged the pearl. “We would not be able to hear sounds without our ears.” “These horns are used for sensing. I believe only the form is different, not the function.” Edda examined the man closely, before letting out a short sigh. “Well, it should be easy enough to fix, in any case…” Roen squinted again, as if to get a better look at those horns. “Hmm.” A long exhale. “Well then, perhaps a message left with the innkeeper? Or the moogles. I do not think you have a receptacle suitable for a pearl.” “I can make one easily enough, I think,” Edda said, voice quiet. “I believe that if it is to be affixed to the surface, it will provide suitable function,” Khadai said. Edda looked to the ground and shuffled awkwardly. It was not something she enjoyed bringing attention to, and if it were not so important, then it would remain glossed over. Such skills were not meant to be equated to her – not yet. “Oh!” Roen exclaimed, and glanced between them. “Like those… that you are wearing now. Fashion some kind of a… cap or something? You have such skills?” “I believe I can craft something suitable to the purpose, given the time and material.” He paused rather suddenly. “…Ah. That question was not intended for me.” He glanced to Edda. Her face now slightly flushed from embarrassment, Edda motioned to the surface behind her ear. “Just a simple hook and holder made of fine wire should be more than suitable. There should be enough room between his skull and mass of his horns for something light and simple…” “I believe such a thing would be acceptable, if you would be willing,” Khadai said. “Of course…!” A low nod of his head. “I am grateful, then.” The corner of Edda’s lips twisted into a strange expression, and she looked down at the ground, the tips of her ears turning red. “Hmph…” Roen looked between the two of them before exhaling sharply. “Well, I will have my pearl in hand, so if I am needed, I will not be far. I am to stay in the city for the time being.” “Then in the meantime, I will survey the surrounding terrain, as was my original intention,” Khadai said. Roen nodded, her tone remaining businesslike. “I have things to take care of as well.” Khadai returned her nod with one of his own. “We may remain in contact, then.” “Oh,” Edda said quickly, looking up. “Alright, yes. I suppose I will go shopping then…” She had no intention of doing such, however. Better to make herself seem busy and useful, though she no doubt that she could manage to fool either of them. Her worth had already been made quite apparent. The paladin nodded once more to them both, her gaze lingering on Edda. “Edda. If I may have a word…” Her voice dipped, her expression a bit hesitant. Wordlessly, Khadai stepped away towards the gate, taking his leave of the two women. “What is it?” Roen stepped closer when the Xaela was out of hearing range. She handed a crumpled paper over, at which Edda raised an eyebrow. “I found this hanging on the walls by the Forgotten Knight. It is an advertisement… for something in Thanalan.” She cleared her throat. “There have been quite a few littering the walls… and um… well. This one had your picture on it.” Edda uncurled the paper, and looked at it with a stoic face. It was none other than the Bronco Grease ad she had posed in at Spahro’s behest. Were it not for her name plastered haphazardly on it, she did not think she was at all recognizable. “All the way in Ishgard? Strange…” She looked back up at Roen. Strange indeed. Edda sincerely doubted many citizens of Ishgard would find much worth in a cheap tonic produced all the way in Thanalan. “Was there a problem?” “No problem… just… I wanted you to be aware. Or prepared. In case… you are recognized.” She cleared her throat again. Edda chuckled softly, and crumpled the paper up once more. “I do not think that will happen. And if I were to be, then that is fine too. A favor, it was, albeit an unexpected one. Father was quite livid.” She smiled at the memory. Her advertising for an unrelated and sleazy product had been poorly received. The paladin licked her lips, uncertainty in her furrowed brow. “Well, if you are not at unease, then my worries are for naught.” She straightened and nodded once. “Dubious Distributions…” she murmured. “I was not aware you knew Mister Bellveil.” Edda frowned and tapped her chin in thought, the name obviously not ringing an immediate bell. “Mister Bellveil…? Dubious… Ah. Yes, the Duskwight man from Ul’dah? I have made his acquaintance on a handful of occasions, but I would not say I know him. Are you a friend of his?” There was a moment of hesitation before she nodded, her expression softening slightly. “He was… I mean, is. He is a friend, aye.” She shrugged quickly. “I have not seen him in a while. But…” She glanced down at the paper. “I suppose he is doing well.” The blonde paused, her expression relaxing in response to Roen. “I could not say,” she began, her voice soft. “But I think it is safe to assume he is well. I am sure you will be able to see him again soon. It seems your friends have a funny habit of cropping up unexpectedly.” She offered a smile, albeit an awkward one. Roen blinked, giving Edda a look of consternation. A pause followed. “Strange, that.” She diverted her glance towards the gates. She let out another long exhale as she scratched her head. “Anyroad. I should get going.” Edda nodded, depositing the crumpled paper in her pocket. “Alright. I shall do so as well, I suppose.” Roen turned to head up the stairs, before pausing. There was a small tug to the corner of her lips, and her voice was quiet. “I thought it would be worse.” She shook her head. “But it was not as bad as I thought.” She turned without further explaining, making her way toward The Pillars. Edda stopped and stared at the woman’s retreating back, left only to wonder at her words.

WHM, in regards to RP. mm7h5Pcg_U4 Or possibly: fRoQ9-lCVu4

I would very much like to put Edda down for the Death card, as it was one of my top three choices for her, I just never entered in the original because... reasons. If by some chance I am selected and Death/Wild Card is already taken, I would gladly concede the Hermit to someone who is better suited to it. Name: Edda Eglantine Job/Occupation: In-game: WHM // IC: Heiress Screenshot Links: http://imgur.com/a/zAi3r

...Shit. There is nothing wrong with this. I'll have you know measurements are highly important when it comes to making tailored-to-fit clothing and is probably one of the most objective body descriptions in this world! Just saying.

I am all over Event 1.

Yeah seriously, fuck Square Enix for embracing fan creativity and even going so far as allowing it to be implemented in their game. What a bunch of jokers. Even worse that they cater to the aesthetic and tone that has pervaded the series since its conception! Criminal scum. This is as far as I go, I'm too salty about this. Cancelling my sub for TESO, a game for superior Western Gamers such as myself. Seriously, I don't get it. It's a contest. One of many. There will be more hairstyles. Get over yourselves.

Well, I could have sworn these two wouldn't make it based on the numbers on the forums, but maybe Square Enix is scoring them like golf. Either way, I'm happy my top choices made it, and I'm looking forward to the countless new hairstyles that are sure to come in the future.

I've been made to feel bad about IC actions on numerous occasions by other players on a purely OOC level. It was incredibly stressful, and as a person new to RP, looking back now I realize how often and how much I compromised Edda's character for the sake of appeasing people OOC. Now that I have moved past all that, I live freely with no regrets. Edda can be a massive ice queen and quite difficult to get along with, but people don't have to like it, ICly or OOCly. Conflict is fun, and while I will jokingly apologize to players for Edda's behavior, I'd never take it back.

You can get addons in WoW that essentially play the game for you. If you did any kind of content at all you were basically required to get Deadly Boss Mods, Recount... mouseover addons for healers as well. Addons that told you when and where to gather stuff, do quests, track the auction house. There were RP addons too but as I never RPed before FFXIV I could not tell you about those. From what I hear they seem pretty nifty, so it makes me wish we had the same options for addons in FF. Edit: Sorry, I might have misread your post. IIRC RP addons in WoW you could put like a searchable bio up that people that also had the addon could view? Sort of like search info only more substantial.

They keep buckets under icicles.

At least it's not Rebuild of Evangelion. In November it'll be three years since the third movie came out with an average of 2.5 years between releases. Yeah, I solved this easily by setting unrealistic expected release dates for the Rebuilds. I predicted 3.0 would come in 2018 and 4.0 in 2025, so there's still quite a bit of wiggle room for Anno to do... whatever it is he does anymore, at least as far as I'm concerned. So long as Shinji gets a happy ending...

Time seemed to slow as the group came upon the body. That she had expected it be nothing more than an animal’s carcass made it all the more shocking to Edda, who turned away immediately at the sight of it. Bile rose in the back of her throat and she put a hand to her mouth. More of this – and though she was adapting to it, the brutality of it was still appalling, far more so than the corpses of those killed in combat. This was nearly beast-like, the cruelty of it so deep that she had to wonder if those that did such a thing were even people at all. She urged Gullinbursti closer to Gideon and huddled as close to him as she could, still looking away. The valet moved in front of Edda quietly, and examined the scene with little reaction, save a raised eyebrow. Carefully extracting some paper from within his jacket, he began sketching a crude map, triangulating them as best he could based on the distance between Dragonhead and the Gates. Edda glanced to him in apprehension, then around him, looking anywhere but at the corpse. Both Khadai and Roen advanced toward the body, both of them perhaps more accustomed to such sights. Khadai frowned at the body, and examined it with a curious eye. “No weapons. No signs of struggle. There had been no conflict.” He pursed his lips. “An execution?” Behind him, Roen slid off her chocobo as she approached and walked closer, her boots crunching in the snow. She nodded slowly, a long exhale released through her nostrils. “Never have I came upon something like this before.” “As I understand,” Gideon began. “Executions in the northern region are typically inquisitorial in nature. I would say the unfortunate mistress may have been too draconic for the locals’ liking, but… this seems remarkably visceral. Moreso than their reputed methods, at any rate.” “This is an… uncommon occurrence, then?” Khadai asked. It was a clinical approach to the situation, one that brought both comfort and displeasure to Edda. Her reaction was an expected one, the pity, fear, and horror still swelling in her stomach. Yet there was little room for weakness here, nor anywhere else. She bit her lip and scanned the horizon. “Should free her of it,” she said softly, her voice barely audible above the howling winds. “It is cruel.” Khadai aimed a confused glance at Edda briefly, before he turned, prepared to begin moving again. “It is a body. Leave it.” “I know full well what it is!” She snapped at the Xaela and glared at him. No argument beyond that was offered, however, and she fell silent. To expect anything more of him had been a mistake, even with the dead being one of his own race. It was not as if he had afforded any sensibility toward the dead before, so why should now be any different? Roen glanced at Edda and then to Khadai, her expression darkened. She tilted her head incredulously at the man, and again glanced between the two Au Ra, one alive and one dead. “No, we are not leaving her like this.” She turned to face Gideon. “Mist North, if you can please aid me in getting her down?” Now it was Khadai’s turn to look at Gideon. “I request clarification on the current situation.” Seeing fit to ignore the man, Edda slid off her chocobo, landing with a grunt in the snowy down. She brushed past Khadai and made her way to Roen, standing ready to help in any way that she could, which was admittedly very little. Gideon paused at the two addressing him, then nodded, speaking plainly and calmly as he levered himself down and slipped off his gloves. “Miss Deneith and my mistress aim to grant the unknown victim dignity that she was robbed of in death, and have momentarily decided to suspend their progress that they might lend her assistance. This will assuage their distress at the situation, and prevent further agitation aroused by any other patrols that might otherwise happen upon her.” His polished shoes crunched over the snow as he smoothly trotted towards the corpse, inspecting and adjusting it for movement with a politely blank expression. Roen blinked as Edda approached, but did not immediately refuse her, and for that she was grateful. The paladin went to the other side of the wooden stake, looking from its base to the end. Her face hardened as she could not help but stare at the dead female once more. “It is already bent from the weight, I think we can bring it down further then free her.” She began to put her weight upon the mid-length of the stake, testing the foundation even as Gideon offered his explanation. Khadai turned and stared at the stake and its unfortunate occupant with a critical eye. “Is the current objective, then, to have the body reach ground level?” “That remains to be seen, sir,” Gideon said. He glanced to Edda politely. “Does miss wish a simple burial, or shall I transport her remains back to Dragonhead and allow you to progress further in my absence?” She shook her head. “Here is fine.” She frowned at herself, and though she stood poised to assist, she did not know how. “As you wish, miss.” “This is pointless. It is a dead body. Would you have us care for fallen leaves as well?” Khadai folded his arms, a frown of confused frustration on his face. A retort made its way to Edda’s lips, but she swallowed it, instead focusing on the task at hand. It seemed pointless to scold Khadai, as it was clear he was set in his ways. The gulf that separated their beliefs seemed wider than before, one too perilous to attempt to cross. It was not a bad thing, no, for she could hardly blame the man for being born and raised in a completely different part of the world; his utter disregard for life was jarring, and one she could not understand. Still, it was not such a terrible thing as she treated it, and it was now that she became certain he would be willing to do what she asked of him when the time was right. The Xaela’s words did not seem to sit right with Roen, and she grunted as she pushed on the stake and motioned Edda forward. “Just lean here if you can. I think we can lower the stake. Perhaps Mister North…” She gave another look to Khadai, this one of impatience. “…Or Khadai can lend a hand and free her.” She glared at him, her words carrying a sharp rebuke. “This would be one of those lessons that you would do well to learn before going to Ishgard. Dead people are not regarded the same as dead foliage.” Gideon stepped forward, and clarified. “The immediate aim is to lower the body, and grant it some measure of concealment by whatever the elements may provide.” He circled behind her, placing his hands on her shoulder blades with gentle firmness. “Miss may avert her eyes, if desired—“ Edda stepped forward as Roen motioned to her, and leaned on the stake as instructed. She shook her head at Gideon’s suggestion – there was no room for weakness here. Not ever. Her lack of physical strength was apparent, however, even the leverage of her bodyweight shunted by the poor footing. The exertion on her face was clear, though it accomplished nothing. A deep sigh followed a long pause of contemplation, and Khadai withdrew his sword from its harness, stepping forward to approach the stake. “Very well. If you insist on removing the body, then we shall do so efficiently.” He raised the sword in the air, as if to slice the cadaver’s torso clean off. “Remove yourselves from it,” he instructed. “It will be quicker in pieces.” “What are you doing? Stop!” Edda immediately jumped forward from her position at the stake, planting herself between the sword and the corpse. She glared up at him, and put a stopping hand out pathetically, as if it would achieve more than her words. A flash of irritation crossed his face, though he did lower his sword and angle it towards the side so as to indicate that was not intending on cutting the Hyur down. “It is a body. It does not possess any trace of the person it once was. If you insist that we are to waste time disposing of remains, then it is best that we do so in the most expedient manner possible. Moving the body off of the stake, or moving the stake itself when faced with size and weight is impractical. Therefore I shall remove what pieces are possible. It will be a simple matter.” Patiently, and remaining in position, Gideon cleared his throat. “The aim in returning her to a peaceful state and position, sir, is to symbolically treat her with more respect and care than her apparent attackers. Dismemberment, while pragmatic, would somewhat be in opposition with the moral intent of providing her mercy and reprieve.” “Reprieve? It is a dead body,” Khadai repeated. “Shall we bathe and dress it? Is this dead body in position to appreciate the care with which it is treated?” The sword slipped back into its harness. “Enough. I can see I have erred, though I may not understand why.” Roen’s eyes widened with disbelief. She released a long suffering breath, as if forcing herself to not speak to hastily. Her composure was stiff, and it was apparent to Edda that the woman was holding herself back, and for that she could hardly be blamed. There was little to be accomplished by lashing out at one so set in his values. Roen went to study the stake once more, turning her attention away from the debate. “You need not understand,” Edda said. She turned away from Khadai and positioned herself at the stake once more. “It is enough for you to know that this is a different land, with different people. Do not impose the inclinations of your peoples on us – for they are not ours. We shall do what we feel is right.” “There is writing here,” Roen said to no one in particular. When Edda approached again, she pointed out the carved letters in the wooden shaft. Edda leaned in to peer at the writing, reading: ‘Where there is sin, we bring atonement.’ “More of this Ishgardian nonsense?” Edda said, in a tone more harsh than usual for her. “Such belligerence in their beliefs—“ She stopped and took a step back as Khadai stepped suddenly into her position at the stake, knees bent. He wrapped his arms around the stake and placed the side of his face against the wooden shaft such that the steel tipped point of his left horn was digging into the wood, and grunted. Muscles strained and his knees shook with the effort, and though it did not free the stake, it noticeably shifted upwards and had leaned over a few ilms. Roen stared, eyes widened once more as Khadai took to moving the stake all by his lonesome. Another long exhale puffed in a cloud of white as she joined in the effort at least in trying to lower the leaning a bit more but a bit higher on the length of the stake. “Mister North…!” She grunted as well. “If you could see if the body can be reached…?” The Xaela repeated the gesture several more times, each time causing the stake to lean slightly more and more with each attempt. Eventually he ceased attempting to lift it and instead used his height to lean against it as close to the top – and near the cadaver – as he could. With his hands still on the body’s shoulder blades, Gideon reacted with careful competence and no questioning – dropping his grip to her ribcage, he set his jaw, pushing with quiet exertion. A couple seconds passed before a crackle broke through the air – once half frozen to the stake, the body jolted upward, the ice broken by their collective efforts. Only a moment more passed, a slight wrinkle of distaste crossing his expression, before the body came loose. Gideon hastily darted to catch her, the lifeless corpse flopping down with the valet’s arms under her own; the gaping hole in her chest now readily visible. “…Ah.” There was little Edda could do, and so the woman opted to stand back and watch, hands covering her mouth. Useless, useless, useless. A deserving mantra. She gasped as the body came free, and she could not help but stare at it, now expecting the mangled state it was in. On one of her thin ankles was tied a piece of linen cloth, an odd thing since it did not seem to belong as part of her garment, and it was free of the spatter of blood that marked the rest of the body. The corpse’s feet began to sink slowly into the snow as she remained in Gideon’s grip. Roen released her own hold on the stake as she was trying to lean it further down, her grimace now turning from one of exertion to that of condemnation at the sight. “Mister North, perhaps you can take her back to Dragonhead? Then join us in Ishgard? Perhaps she has family that needs to be notified.” She walked around towards him and the body. “I can send a missive with you. Just bring her to the attention of Ser Tournes.” She looked to the female’s face, one hand rising to close the woman’s eyes. “Is that wise?” Edda turned to look at Roen sharply, lowering her hands from her mouth. “There is no guarantee she will not receive the same treatment there, as the camp is still beleaguered with Halone, and—“ She stopped, and a look of realization dawned on her face. She looked between the two friends, and then fell silent, bowing her head to stare at her feet. Oh. Oh. Of course, what good was her word between old friends? No doubt they had missed each other, separated by strife and circumstance, and now finally reunited – there was no place for her here. It was wrong of Edda, perhaps, to have expected anything different; the sharp slap of realization as to what weight she carried here settled in her chest, the pangs of a barren hole carved by a formless stake. Roen was right, had always been right. It had been foolish of her to believe otherwise. Stillness overcame Edda as her fingers dug tiny crescents into the palms of her hands. “That will not be necessary, Miss,” Gideon started. He immediately began taking the leftover bags and cloth from Chesterfield’s back, beginning to wrap her in a makeshift shroud. “I believe I provided the camp with enough minor comforts that I should be recognized, and my own word afforded due acknowledgement. You may go on ahead to ensure your business is not delayed; I will attend to the unfortunate miss.” He nodded politely to Edda and Khadai in turn. “Miss will find her essentials in the appropriate saddled bag. I apologize for the delay, sir, and wish you luck and insight on the road ahead. I will return shortly.” Without further delay, he hunched in the snow, quietly seeing to the woman’s impromptu, ragged covers. Khadai frowned but said nothing, and merely trudged off in the direction of the road. “Not all Halone’s believers are cruel or suspecting of all outsiders,” Roen said after some delay, looking at Edda out of the corner of her eye. She nodded to Gideon. “Gratitude, Mister North, for your assistance.” “Such is my purpose, Miss.” He delicately covered the hole in her chest. “On you go, now.” “I will still send a missive to Ser Tournes once we reach Ishgard to inquire further on this matter.” The paladin shook her head. “This is… not…” A pause. “It is not right and it is certainly not the law of the land here. Not this.” She turned to Edda, as if trying to convince her as much as herself. Edda wrapped her arms around herself, her expression morphing into a pained frown. She looked at Roen carefully and nodded as best she could, before turning on her heel and mounting Gullinbursti. She stared at Gideon, still busying himself in wrapping the corpse, before sighing and covering her face in her hands. Chesterfield tweeted grudgingly at them, as if demanding to be taken along. The valet murmured, not stirring from his work. “Patience.” Roen mounted her bird, but pulled up next to Edda. The look she gave her was one of sympathy. “We should go. If anything to make certain that Khadai does not meet the same fate.” Her voice had softened, as did her countenance. Edda straightened up, and withdrew her hands from her face. “Yes,” was all she said, and urged her chocobo forward. Khadai had not made it too far, thankfully, and it did not take too long for the two to catch up to him. He did not say anything, and merely continued his long strides with a stern expression of thought on his face. The rest of the trip to the Gate of Judgment was spent in silence.

Have you seen MS Gundam The Origin: Blue-Eyed Casval? It uses the same art style to tell (as the name states) the origin story of everyone's favorite villain, Char Aznable. They're doing it as a series of OVAs to tell the background behind the original MS Gundam series and even retell some of the events from it, all in the same quality as Unicorn. Also there's this weekly anime series coming out on October 4th as well (Iron-Blooded Orphans) done by Tatsuyuki Nagai: http://g-tekketsu.com/index.html I knew about the new series coming out, which I am waiting for. Still hoping it will deliver, since I feel like Gundam's TV entries have been really lackluster for the past several years. At the very least the director of the new series has experience with "tugging at your heartstrings" moments so I am definitely looking forward to the emotional storytelling aspect of the new series (which is admittedly, a huge draw for me when it comes to Gundam). I did not know the first OVA of Origin was already out though! My goodness that completely slipped my notice. Hopefully it will come out at a steady pace and not take four years like Unicorn did. Remember when Unicorn was announced at only going to have 3-4 episodes? Sigh... Have some bad news for you, Edda...The first episode came out in February. The second doesn't come out until Halloween. More than six months between episodes bodes poorly for not having it drawn out.. That long, huh. Oh well... Honestly, if it's coming out within a year, that is good enough for me. Provided it stays four episodes, anyway. It's a hell of a lot better than the Code Geass "Long OVAs with Theatrical Releases." Holy crap. Over a year and half from episode 2-3, not to mention the added wait for the Blu-ray release. Just... kill me. They weren't even that great... :frustrated:

Have you seen MS Gundam The Origin: Blue-Eyed Casval? It uses the same art style to tell (as the name states) the origin story of everyone's favorite villain, Char Aznable. They're doing it as a series of OVAs to tell the background behind the original MS Gundam series and even retell some of the events from it, all in the same quality as Unicorn. Also there's this weekly anime series coming out on October 4th as well (Iron-Blooded Orphans) done by Tatsuyuki Nagai: http://g-tekketsu.com/index.html I knew about the new series coming out, which I am waiting for. Still hoping it will deliver, since I feel like Gundam's TV entries have been really lackluster for the past several years. At the very least the director of the new series has experience with "tugging at your heartstrings" moments so I am definitely looking forward to the emotional storytelling aspect of the new series (which is admittedly, a huge draw for me when it comes to Gundam). I did not know the first OVA of Origin was already out though! My goodness that completely slipped my notice. Hopefully it will come out at a steady pace and not take four years like Unicorn did. Remember when Unicorn was announced at only going to have 3-4 episodes? Sigh...

I don't think it's a bad idea, but one that could be executed quite poorly. As others have said, if your game-plan is to make sure everyone ICly knows your character is a hermaphrodite, that is more than likely not going to be well received. Play it subtly, and it could work, and even if no one figures it out, it might give you some extra enjoyment playing out that particular aspect. At best, if would give your character more interesting and unique internal monologues. At worst, it would be about as superficial as saying "my character has two sets of ears!" That being said, I find that more often than not people take certain "quirks" of their character and play it so hard, there is literally no character past said quirk. "Oh, my character is totally gay xD" or "My character is just always really mad about being an ex-slave!" Not that these are bad things, but when they are constantly turned up to 11 and always at the center of that person's RP, things become dull, and quickly. If you think you can avoid that trap, then go for it. If you cannot envision your character outside of being a hermaphrodite, then perhaps it would be wise to rethink things.

Damn I wish Sunrise would go back to making real gendums instead of this Build Fighters nonsense. I'm not trying to knock it or anything but I miss the days when I could cry over shit like 08th MS Team and get all hype for Turn A and 00. Unicorn was quite good and I hope they return to that style of storytelling BUT... we'll see. I hear if you eat Relena Peacecraft's eyebrows you can gain her powers. GN Flags are the sexiest grunt-tier mecha designs in all of Gundam and Tieria is mai waifu. 00 is my favorite Gundam followed closely by Turn A, with G Gundam as my least favorite, although I think objectively 08th MS Team is the "best" Gundam series. This is of course, discounting Seed and Seed Destiny, both of which were horrible mistakes that should be expelled forever from history. Also:

o god how did this happen i am not good with screenshot

5Ssnaiquvns The only true answer to this question. Just kidding! Shiva's 1st theme is and most likely will remain my all-time favorite track in this game. It is usually difficult for me to choose just one song from an already standout OST, but this song stands above all the rest for me, easily. It is a shame the worst song in the game has to follow it.

Finally, male hair #23 has gained some traction. Greatest tragedy of my life seeing that at sub 400 likes. Female hair I am ambivalent towards. At least the one in the lead is plausible for Edda, the rest are way too damn casual.

When it comes to roleplay, and even situations in real life, there is really only one clear answer: Don't. In no way is it ever acceptable to just waltz up to anyone you have had no prior interaction with and engage them in any way, shape, or form. It is rude and disrespectful. Even so much as emoting your character's annoyance or interest in the conversation between two friends is highly inconsiderate and should be avoided at all costs. As anyone who knows me can tell you, I recently removed the "walk-ups welcome" blurb in my search info, and I would encourage any and all roleplayers to do the same. If someone is roleplaying publicly, that does not give you the right to engage them if they are a complete stranger. If I have a need to introduce my character to someone new, then I will arrange for it to be done so through an existing, mutual contact, just like how ever other normal person meets new people in real life. For more information on the issues regarding engaging strangers in any way, please refer to this article. Though it is written for IRL purposes, I think it can be applied to roleplay as well.

If that's the case force every bit of content completion rather than just piecemeal it. Didn't do T13? Fuck off you don't get this expansion. *goes to uninstall HW* I'm confused. Do you like the game, or not? If you don't, maybe you should actually stop playing, and not just because you disagree with content gating. Despite the amount of feedback the devs take into consideration from the community, ultimately FFXIV is a game made by and for Square Enix. The best way to let them know you are displeased with their decisions is to let them know on the forums and cancel your subscription. I see no merit in continuing to pay for a game you are so utterly unhappy with.

Khadai’s words were filled with enough weight that Edda felt as if she could hardly breathe. She looked away from him, a look of frustration crossing her features. Though his thoughts had been clear and succinct, a shadow of doubt lingered in her mind. Never before had anyone said such a thing to her. The possibility of him lying crossed her mind – surely he was capable enough to never have to rely on her, as was anyone else. Yet Khadai was no liar. If anything, he was too honest, nearly brazen with the harsh truth that often accompanied his words. He did not seem one for pity either, but the fear of such still spread through her. Edda waited some before responding. “And what of Ishgard?” She asked slowly. “What will you do there? Leave me, if you so deign to travel to the lands beyond? If so, that is…” She trailed off and shook her head, looking at the snow collecting in the joints between the stone construct. It is what? A question she herself could not answer. “My intention within Ishgard is to gather relevant information. I cannot do so without one to interpret that which I do not understand. Yet my first intention is to fulfill the terms of our transaction. If you are not to be destined for Ishgard, then I shall postpone my own assignment until such a time that I am called upon you to fight in your stead.” The woman snapped to attention and looked at Khadai quickly, surprise clear on her face. “Wh-what? No…no. That will not be necessary. I am not so selfish.” He stepped forward aggressively, befitting his martial demeanor. “I am to fight in your stead. I am bidden to offer my body and abilities. Do you intend to continue denying this?” The height of the Xaela was much more apparent as he stepped closer. It was an intimidating sight, and the hairs on the back of her neck bristled in nervousness. Edda glared up at him and leaned forward, as if to resist him. “I am not denying your function! I have not denied it at all! Why must you persist in this way? Are you so eager for bloodshed, so eager to uphold your end of the bargain that you might be rid of me? If that is all you want, I could just as easily send you out to kill a pack of wolves at my whim, and consider the contract complete!” She seethed, her face heated from anger and embarrassment. “And yet that is not… Not what I want. What I need…” She sighed, her voice considerably lower, her shoulders sagging. “To partake of your service without offering my own in return is wrong,” he said sternly, almost patronizingly. “It is theft. You would bid me to steal something of value from you without repercussion or compensation.” A gloved hand reached up to scratch at his head near his horns. His vexation was clear. “And if I am to hunt wolves for you, then hunt I shall. But I am aware that you possess a specific task in mind that you have not deigned to reveal to me.” Edda felt at a loss for words. Dealing with one as straightforward as Khadai was a tiring experience, one she was certainly not used to. “…Yes, that is so,” she said after a time, her voice no longer bearing the ire from before. “And yet, I know not when. Do you not see, Khadai? It could be in the next few suns, several moons from now, even a cycle. I do not… wish to burden you so, nor anyone else, with such a thing. “To live and breathe with the constant threat of being called away looming over your head, not knowing when… It is unpleasant.” She looked up at him closely. There was a look in her eye that bore sympathy, empathy even, at living a life not quite one’s own. Khadai shifted again. “I am not unfamiliar with the sensation, nor do I find it unwelcome. You have a task. You yourself are not capable of accomplishing this. We have entered an agreement wherein each of us obtains a service from the other that is beneficial to our intentions.” His eyes hardened into a stern gaze. “It is not your place to judge whether or not I am to be compelled to your service. It is already done. Do not ascribe the proclivities of this continent to me. They are not valid. You will utilize me as our transaction demands. There will be no further discussion.” The woman made a small noise in the back of her throat that sounded either argumentative or acquiescence. It was hard to say. Such lip and pushiness from one who claimed to be obligated to her was most foreign. Her father would surely have burst a vessel at the sight of her being browbeaten into submission by some foreign barbarian, and Edda knew that she should find her situation humiliating. And yet, the assurance he possessed came only as a relief, and somewhere deep in her heart burned only with happiness. “You are difficult,” was all Edda managed to choke out, and she looked away, her face flushed red. The man tilted his head. “I believe myself to be within the boundaries of ease.” The disagreement was spoken matter-of-factly. She looked back at him out of the corner of her eye, an eyebrow raised. “Perhaps in your eyes. You come from a different world.” She sighed. “So often am I used to being assured that those pledged to me will obey me without question.” He tilted his head in the other direction. “I am only of use in my capacity as a warrior because I am an individual with thought, and not a thoughtless storm. “If you are to utilize my abilities, then I am duty-bound to inform you in how you may most efficiently utilize those abilities. It is permissible for you to convey inefficient commands when you lack awareness of my capabilities, and should you do so, I shall endeavor to correct you. None are perfect.” It was barely perceptible, but the slightest corner of his lip almost curled somewhat at the statement. Edda thought on this for a long minute. For a brief moment, a look of relief washed over her face, and her expression softened. “Y-yes, I suppose that is true.” She hesitated, and frowned at herself. It still did not seem quite fair to her, for the man to be bound to one so insignificant as her. “…I am sorry I cannot be of more use to you. And yet, I would see this through. You need not force yourself to explain them to me – but I would see what your intentions are.” Her voice was nearly a whisper toward the end, a lingering shame pervading her words. “I do not understand. Clarify the contexts in which I am to possess intentions for you to function.” She flushed at his misunderstanding. Still, the blame lay with her for not being more concise. “That is not—not at all what I meant. I only mean to know the extent of your purpose here in Eorzea.” A pause. “Perhaps ‘intentions’ was not the right word, as you yourself mentioned you were still unsure. I only… I only seek to take responsibility for my actions. The actions that have brought us both to where we are now.” Khadai’s face twisted in consternation. “Do you refer to the agreement wherein I requested that you guide me to Coerthas?” “Yes.” Confusion was still apparent on his face, but he did not press further on the matter. Instead, he abruptly shifted to answering her earlier query. “I am searching for… certain things. I do not know if these concepts can be found upon the Western continent or what they are called. Therefore, because you demand that I make use of your relevant abilities, I would ask you to interpret the information that I come across for me that I may perhaps find them relevant to my assignment.” He frowned. “…I also do not know how to read the Western continent’s written language. I would rectify this somehow.” She blinked. That was not the response she had anticipated in any capacity. The look he had given at her disjointed thoughts seemed an annoyed one, but his answer was patient and clear. Her lips parted absently in thought. “Y-yes, those are… duties with which I could assist.” She looked down and licked her lips, having become dry in the chill of the morning air. A smile toyed at the corners of her mouth. An earnest one, but at what was unclear to even her. “It would be difficult to learn to read and write quickly, so in the mean time, I can do so for you. And… whatever else.” As if he perceived some manner of discontent from her, Khadai was quick to speak again. “I repeat my point. You possess a relevance in function precisely because you are not similar to me. In addition, you are not obligated to my service. Whether or not I am to partake of your services is irrelevant; you are free to go where you choose.” He raised a doubtful eyebrow. “Unless you wish to open another transaction of services.” Edda looked back up at him with confusion. “Whatever for?” “If you are to interpret information for me, then you will not receive an equitable service unless we establish a transaction.” The meaning behind his words sunk in, and Edda gawked at the man for a moment before bowing her head – low – and staring at her feet. “It is…” she mumbled the rest, unintelligible. “Repeat yourself.” “I said—“ She looked up and spoke louder. Her face was bright red, her expression one of considerable bashfulness. “I said it is enough that I am helpful and… And that what little I can do is desired.” He looked at her quizzically but said nothing and merely nodded. “Am I correct in believing that your destination is Ishgard?” “I would like to,” she said. Then, in a quiet voice, “I do not think Roen will be very pleased.” “The stern woman is irrelevant. Though her martial capacity may provide us grounds with which to reach reconciliation, her function is redundant. “In the mean time, should I require navigation, then I will rely upon you to find one who can efficiently fulfill such a purpose.” He stopped as he opened his mouth as if suddenly struck by memory. “…Where are my garments? I could not find them.” “Oh. Well yes, alright… I can do that.” She scowled slightly, unsure how to take his assessment of Roen. She knew the paladin had only her best interests at heart, however deeply they wounded her. So often were her thoughts and actions dictated by others, but she had not expected such to come from one she might dare to consider a friend. Though they had spoken vaguely on it, Edda had hoped she would understand the hurt it would cause. And yet here she was, the bitter memory of the wind biting at her wet cheeks still painful in the forefront of her mind. “And they are in my room, Khadai. As clean as they were on the first sun you wore them.” He nodded. “Then I will retrieve them before we leave. This clothing is… restrictive.” He shifted uncomfortably as if to illustrate his point. “When will we depart?” Edda tried not to look at the Xaela in his unfitting clothing, the memory of his nudity from the other night still stark in her mind. Never before had she witnessed the unclothed form of a man, and it was something she was now trying desperately to forget. She cleared her throat. “We will depart soon. I need only gather my belongings and whatever supplies we may need. It should not take but a moment, and the journey should be a short one.” A solemn nod. “I will be within my quarters.” With naught more than that, he strode away. The rising sun could barely be seen behind the thick veil of clouds, yet it was clear the morning had already settled in. From atop the battlements, the shadowy mirage of Ishgard could be seen, and Edda stared at it for a few minutes. It was not far off, the realization that she would be headed to the mysterious city having not quite settled in. She shivered. Content that she had given Gideon and Roen enough time to reconnect, Edda turned on her heel and made her way back to her room.