Roen

I should have taken more screenshots... :cry: But here are a few of the Starlight Ball: "Do you pray, Mister North?" "I do not, miss. I prefer not to ask things of masters that do not answer." "My brother is here too. I think he would want to meet you." "Is he the 'I am glad my sister found someone else to suffocate' kind of brother, or the 'I will pull out your spine through your eyes if you mess up' kind of brother? Actually, don't answer that. Let it be a surprise." "Like I said. No promises." "Well, I did write my will before coming here..." "Always so prepared." "Roen, what do ye know about Yoyorano?" "That dress becomes you. I did not know you had returned to Ul'dah. And then I just recalled we are not in Ul'dah." "Indeed. We are not. This celebration is held on neutral ground." "Neutral. You make it sound as though you are on an opposing team. We are not at war, miss." "Nay. We are at a Ball."

Ah! Thank you for the screenshot! I took so few during the event... I feel like I am reading through Best Dressed article in People Magazine after some awards show ... HAHAHA (what. I read those. I like looking at prettily dressed people.) AAAH. The infamous couple. I am glad someone took pics of them! Roen was too busy being annoyed for the player to take a screenie. Matching feathers on their hat... how cute. [/align] YAY I got to meet Verad's date! [/align]

It was really fun! Thank you Erik and the Red Wings for organizing this! I will confess I was pretty overwhelmed by the rapid scrolling at some points. I apologize to those who sent me tells and my response was either short or never followed up on! Everyone looked so lovely and the atmosphere and venue was great! (I heard I missed some trolling chaos early though) I only wished that I could read and type faster and interact with more people as I had hoped. Still. It was a great event!

A small box wrapped with thin red and white strips of ribbon was delivered to Gideon North, along with a note. "Mister North, I found this by happenstance; a goldsmith friend of mine had come across it in Limsa through another merchant who had held onto it because of sentimental reasons. I think he knew your previous master. It may have belonged to them, but I believe you are all that remains of that house, and so now it should belong to you. You may only see yourself as a servant, but if your young master was as kind and generous as you described, I suspect he saw you a member of his own family. You should have it. Happy Starlight to you. ~R" Enclosed within the box are a pair of cufflinks, bearing a golden tree with three perforations within it.

Roen did not even have to urge Goldwind; at the word GO, her mount darted forward, strides quickly lengthening to a full sprint. The paladin instinctively leaned forward as the bird began to pick up speed. “I wasn’t ready!” She glanced back to see that Chachanji had fallen behind. Avenger wore a quizzical look, as if confused as to why he was slowing down. While Roen eased just slightly in her seat, she did not slow down her mount either; she had watched them long enough to know that the little bird and rider had the capacity for a quick burst of speed to catch up. And despite the fact that this race was supposed to be fun, it was still a lesson in riding after all! The paladin glanced back again to watch in delight as Chachanji made his first jump. She couldn’t quite see what he was jumping over, was there a rock there…? But the form was good, and he had made a grand show of it too. Roen chuckled and veered Goldwind towards the Dispatch Yard. Once the two raised platforms came into view, she could see Goldwind’s feather prickle upwards just slightly...and she could not help but share in her bird's mischievous impulse. Roen would never consider herself prone to impishness. She did not like the thought of causing other people alarm nor did she derive enjoyment from seeing people fumble or falter. But there were moments in her childhood -- and usually it was when she was riding or doing "something non-girly," much to her mother's chagrin. An idea would spark in her mind, and the appeal of it grew like wildfire, and she was forced to commit to it lest it was lost to disappointment. This was one of those moments. Roen veered Goldwind onto the railway track, following its course toward the two platforms that flanked it at the station. The first obstacle was a 'No Entry' sign that stood as firm warning to any who approached near. Both Goldwind and Roen gave it no thought and gleefully leaped over it. Then she turned her bird sharply, the chocobo racing up the steps of the platform. Roen had the merest moment to give a rueful (and perhaps apologetic) grin to the two guards there -- both who could only stare at her with widened eyes. Goldwind's feet skidded against stone as Roen turned her bird sharply left again, only a few fulms away from the two Stone Torches, urging the bird for a long airy jump over two barrels and a vase that stood on the edge. They landed on the dirt beyond leaving a cloud of dust in their wake, and Goldwind let out a hoot of pleasure as he continued to race down the road. Roen half wondered if Chachanji would take a similar course; there was an instant pang of doubt that she chose the course that she did. A risky course was not something she should have set as an example for her young pupil. Roen knew her childhood teachers would have looked askance and scowled. She was a rather restless student back then, full of daydreams -- a world of grand adventures set before her as challenges to be bested. Now that the tables were turned, Roen could not help but feel slightly guilty at her misadventures as a child. With that thought in mind, she glanced over her shoulder to see how the Lalafell and Avenger were faring.

A small box wrapped in festive colors of Starlight arrived with a letter addressed to Delial Grimsong. “Delial, The past you and I share…I would never wish that on anyone. From the sun we first met in Little Ala Mhigo, no…you found me long before that, I would have never imagined the string of betrayals, death, and pain that you would bring. I still find myself bewildered that either of us still draw breath around the other, much less consider each other an ally... I always wondered why Ala Mhigans worshipped Rhalgr, a god of destruction. But I have come to learn that many see him as a sign of rebirth, that in the wake of such suffering and wreckage, something new and stronger can be born. Something better. I would like to hope that such is the nature between you and I and my brother. So I send this to you in spirit of Starlight, as a reminder that despite all that we have done, new beginnings that can still be forged. ~R” Enclosed within the box was a necklace. It had a dark polished stone affixed to a leather strap. In the center of the stone there was carved symbol of Rhalgr that glimmered very faintly in the sunlight, revealing the slivers of crystal hidden within the black stone.

A letter tucked into a beaten leather bound tome was delivered to Verad Bellveil’s estate, with two well made knives criss-crossed on top, all held together by festive ribbons in the colors of Starlight. “Mister Bellveil, An odd pair of gifts, I know. I have never known you to be a man of violence, or of the blade such as these. But, they do represent a part of who you were and I want to find out more about him. Do call upon me whenever you need. It actually gives me some measure of relief to know that you are learned in these weapons, knowing the danger I have put you through. The book, with an appropriately aged cover and blank pages within, is for you to start a new memoir. One that actually chronicals your real life, the man you truly are. I am certain I will find it much more interesting, less scandalous, and more believable than the current one in circulation. Not that I begrudge those stories, they have brought me much laughter during my times of need. And I am still looking forward to those adventures you promised, someday. I hope your Starlight Festivities are blessed, ~Roen”

A dish of distinct scent and flavor awaited Franz when he returned to his room at the Still Shore. His memories would be stirred in that they remind him of a certain Garlean dish, well liked in the Empire. A note was tucked just beneath the plate. “Franz, I know you must miss home. Sometimes I catch that melancholy behind your eyes. I miss it too at times. This is a dish my mother used to make me every nameday, she did so love the flavor of garlic along with a few other mixture of spices. I have been taking some culinary lessons during my time in Limsa at Bismarck, and tried to have something prepared there that resembles it as close as possible. I hope it brings back some fond thoughts of home as you enjoy it. Happy Starlight to you, ~Roen”

Someone just pointed this out to me last night as I was talking about the Ball. The Sanctum of Twelve is where the Eternal Bonding ceremony is at. While I haven't taken a gander there myself to verify, I was told that it is constantly crowded, lots of people running back and forth and many just standing around near the chapel afk. There will likely be plenty of non-roleplayers about and maybe even chat in say between those people just hangin around. Or spams of standard emotes between those waiting. I would love for this Ball to be as exclusive to RPers as much as possible, but I don't know that this venue will allow that. Just a thought.

A wrapped package was left in care of Mister Bellveil, addressed to Kiht Jakkya. “Kiht, I saw this at the market. You seemed to favor them greatly over any other kind of fruit when we used to watch the Grindstone together. I know we have grown much since those days, but I still treasure those fond memories. May the Starlight Festival find you well. ~Roen" Enclosed within the box were strips of spiced dry meat of various flavor.

Two items were left on the table by the door in Jajara's room: a single shiny fishing lure and a bag of freshly picked La Noscean oranges. "To Miss Jara and Mister Chuchukepa, Miss Jara, this is for all the words of wisdom you have shared with me for as long as I can remember. Even in our most casual conversations, there was always a new insight I had gleaned from your positive outlook. Perhaps this tackle can make its way onto that fancy fishing hat of yours, in hopes that we can use it again someday. I cherish our fishing trips together and the joy and peace they bring to my heart. And the bag of oranges is for Mister Chuchukepa. I think he knows why. Happy Starlight Festival to you both. ~Roen"

A note and a package wrapped in Starlight Festival colors were left to the care of Corporal Kokojo at the Immortal Flame Headquarters, addressed to Osric Melkire. The note simply said, “So that we never have to cut.” The small box held a single scalpel, its edge dulled.

In Ser Crofte’s room sat a simple elegant vase with a single flower, a small note tucked under the vase. “Such a simple thing, but it brought me a glimpse of hope even a windowless stone room. I hope this flower brings you the same during these trying times."

A neatly wrapped package was left at a small house in the Mist, addressed to Gharen Wolfsong. "Gharen, While the circumstances in which I discovered the truth about my heritage was regretful, in the end it still gave me a brother I never knew I had. A strong man with a good heart, who has survived much hardship. I know you likely did not receive many holiday gifts when you were young, but as I have always said, it is never too late to catch up on family traditions. Happy Starlight, my dear brother. ~Roen" Enclosed within the package was a framed portrait of Eloise Windmark and her daughter, Aline Windmark, drawn by Aylard Greyarm's hand.

A leather bound book wrapped in red and white ribbons was delivered to Siha with a sealed letter. “Dearest Siha, I do not visit Gridania oft of late, my work has me mostly in Limsa and various corners of Thanalan. But whenever I find myself in the land of trees and elementals, I think of you. That is where we met, and where we have shared our first talks. Do you remember? You told me about your mother, and I about my father, under the canopy of red and gold leaves. Neither of us seemed to mind the rain that made the branches shiver. You and Erik were my first family when I made my way to Ul’dah, kin not by blood but by oath. I miss you. I miss our talks, I miss your smile, I miss your voice. I miss you. I wish for us to have such times again. I hope to see you soon. Happy Starlight to you dear sister. ~Roen” Within the pages of the tome was a well pressed leaf of red and gold, one that would be found in Gridania.

Holiday songs like this one may or may not have inspired my latest holiday post... What can I say, I get a little sentimental around this time of year... Ave Maria

In front of Kage’s new home sat a small package wrapped in red and white ribbons. “Dear Kage, May we never falter, no matter what path we choose in the end. This beret always reminds me of what was, and what should have been. I will never forget those days, even with all that has passed. Remember who you were, and may that guide you in who you become. ~Roen” Within the package was a felt white beret with a golden feather.

“Look what we have here! A new package has arrived, just for you, Kupo!" The moogle handed Chachanji Gegenji a short note and a small parcel, both having somehow fit neatly and undamaged in the furry white creature’s red satchel. “To my eager pupil, May you never forget the simple joys in life. And how to help people. This flower reminded me of you, and the warmth you bring to others. Happy Starlight. ~Roen” Within the box was a small white cake, with a bright yellow flower drawn in frosting on top of the cake.

A wrapped package was left with Garalt on the Second Forte, a small note tucked under the ribbon. “Nero, I never asked if your childhood ever included celebrations of the Starlight Festival, or if your father ever thought much of it. My mother loved all things from all the lands, and delighted in observing this Ishgardian holiday. She would also remind me of how those children who were gifted, eventually grew up and gifted others. I was fortunate enough to have received both love and gift as a child, and it is time that I repaid that fortune. Did you know that Daegsatz had a gift for drawing? I am sure you did, but it surprised me. I would like to think that Daegsatz was imagining the blue skies and having fond thoughts of the open sea when he drew this. His last days, despite being imprisoned, he filled it with beautiful sketches, learned how to dance, and nursed an inebriated paladin. He may have died there, but he did not live his last fortnight like a caged creature. He was still Soldier Dance, and I was glad to have known him. ~Roen” Within the wrapping was a sketch of an albatross in flight in an ornately carved wooden picture frame. In the bottom corner of the picture were written: "If you be losing your way, there always be another side." ~Daegsatz Traggblansyn

“For...me...?” Sayer’s sky-blue eyes went wide, peering back up at her. His hands hovered around the toy that was being offered--a wooden carving of a chocobo hatchling peeking out of its broken egg. The child’s dirt-stained fingers brushed lightly over the top, tracing the egg’s surface ever so gently. “It is yours," Roen said quietly. "You should have something special for Starlight, as all children should.” Roen extended her hand, the figurine laid flat upon her palm. She grinned as it was immediately snatched up, the boy holding the model in his cupped hands as if it was a real hatchling. “If you take good care of it, maybe you will have a real mount of your own someday,” the paladin said softly. “Really?” the Highlander boy smiled wide, his beaded braids clacking with excitement as he bounced up and down. Roen nodded with a chuckle. After seeing Chachanji’s boundless elation on Avenger, she knew such an idea might also cheer up young Sayer. She watched him as he cradled the wooden hatchling with care as if it was a newly born babe. “I will build him a nest, I will!” Sayer piped up, suddenly proud of his idea. “I’ll set him just next to my bed so I can watch him. Like ma does for me.” “I am certain you will take good care of him.” Roen bent before the boy, lightly cupping his chin with one hand, lifting it to draw his attention. ”Now, go tell the other children I have some candy for them as well.” She held up two wrapped Yellow Drops before the boy, and Sayer’s eyes went wide as saucers. “One for you, and the other for Lancel,” she grinned. She pulled it away before it was snatched up, holding up one finger with her other hand. “Promise to share, aye?” When Sayer quickly bobbed his head again, she offered them back as the Highlander boy eagerly swiped it from her fingers. The paladin shook her head as she watched the skinny boy scamper off, calling ahead toward the shack he called his home in his excited voice. “Lancel! Lancel! Look what I got!” Roen settled onto a seat on an empty crate, drawing up her pouch full of candy from her belt. Watching even little things bring her Lalafell pupil such moments of happiness inspired her to bring more of that to those in the refugee camps. More than anywhere else it was needed here. She knew it was as fleeting as a snowflake that found its way to her fingertips, but the flash of its beauty and the wonder of it still lingered in her memory. One needed such reminders in times of darkness, or when the world seemed to lack in warmth and sympathy. The paladin began to spot a few more faces--young children, most of them with sunken eyes and cheeks, grime and dirt staining their face and hair, peeking out of their tents, hovels, and shacks, pointing her way. She could spot the flash of curiosity--even hope--on their faces as they emerged from their homes, their initial steps tentative. Roen beckoned them over with a smile, pulling out one Yellow Drop from the pouch she held. She saw one young girl’s face split with a wide smile and started to quicken her steps toward her, only coming to a stop when she was but two fulms away. The girl’s movement was shy and slow, as she closed the final distance with the trepidation of a young fawn, careful to take the offering. But once she held the candy in her hand, the child looked back to Roen with a grin of unbound happiness. "This is a story about hope, and a bright future. This is the story about someone who believed that they could overcome all odds and reach for a better life." His words, spoken with a tinge of sadness, rose to the surface in her memory at seeing the girl. “This young girl lacked in material goods, but she was not lacking in spirit, or strength of heart." Roen blinked, catching herself for a moment as she recalled that tragic story Nero had told her. She held out more candies in her hand as other children approached, emboldened by the first child who was now savoring her treat with a gleeful spin in the dirt. She knew the offering she had brought was not much, she wished there was more she could give them, but it was what she could afford for as many children that would come. But watching them giggle and hop around each other as they all enjoyed a piece of candy... She wondered if that was all she wanted after all? To deliver even a moment’s reminder that there was more than just the day to day dreariness for them. That there were joys and moments they could all savor in. The paladin smiled to herself when the last of the children scampered away, a few of them wanting to bring the candy to their parents to either show or share. She looked to the empty pouch in her lap, a content sigh escaping her lips. Perhaps she too needed this reminder. Her mother, the one that raised her, had always said that kindness was a treasure that all can share freely. In the last few moons, embroiled in the political tug-of-war between Nero and the Monetarists, and her struggle to help the Limsan smuggler bring change to Ul’dah, Roen had forgotten the blissful peace that could be felt when she saw joy in someone else’s face, especially if she had a hand in bringing it forth. That was what Starlight Festival was all about, was it not? A tradition of helping others, and that in turn, sowing seeds for more benevolence and unselfishness in the future? Roen slid off the crate, dusting herself off. It was here that she had spotted Nero when he had come to look for her after his caravan was confiscated. It was also at the campfire nearby where she and Mister Bellveil had exchanged words about her current goals, where he had offered to help her in her efforts against the Monetarists. Her thoughts continued to wander, many faces--those that she held dear--rising to mind. With a new lightness in her step, the paladin made her way back toward the Gate of Nald, drawing the cowl of her hood low in front of her brows. She had to seek out a few more reminders for others.

....!!! That sneaky Super Sentai Robin Hood Osric..! Along with his cohort and sidekick Siha. I will get you yet. :bomb:

Roen does not qualify, but I will post about a character I know well to insert here! (the player does not visit the boards hardly ever) Anden Anduron, one of the Brass Blade captains, is a gladiator with no aetheric abilities. He and his brothers come from a long line of proud gladiators. His ancestors were originally poor, then made their fortune in the Blood Sands, enough to raise the house to the ranks to the Monetarist nobles.

Roen chuckled at the boy’s excitement. Goldwind echoed the younger bird’s readiness with a wark of his own, stomping and scratching at the dirt ground. They were all causing quite the ruckus! Even Gagari and Hihiyaja, the two Lalafells that were on hand to tend to the Royal Plantations, looked up from their tasks, curious brows raised. The paladin spun her mount around, lining up alongside Chachanji and Avenger. The two birds’ symphony of trills echoed across the warm Thanalan afternoon sky, and a thin cloud of dust rose around them as the chocobos bounced about in anticipation. “Gagari!” Roen called over as the Lalafell farmer came up to the wooden fence. While the Dunefolk farmer usually had a tired air about her, the pending race seemed to perk her interest. Her yellow-orange eyes were curious. “Can you start us off?” Roen asked her. Hihiyaja bounced up next to Gagari with a wide grin. “Oh! A race! Good luck Miss Deneith!” Roen answered her with a delighted wink. She had come to know Gigari and Hihiyaja well; they were a kind and understanding pair, even if the hardship of cultivating the dry desert lands oft weighed upon their shoulders. It was good to see them smile. Gagari climbed up to the top wooden rail, as if to make show of things, and came to a balanced perch on a wooden column. “Well, I am cheering for Chachanji!” she teased as she raised her hand. “Ready…” A dramatic pause. “Set…” Roen glanced to Chachanji, assessing his readiness. Goldwind’s top feathers popped straight up at attention, then flattened as the bird lowered his head. She could tell her mount was raring to go, and found herself grinning ear to ear. The raised hand dropped. “GO!”

I LOVE Christmas music! My three favorites (I just can't pick one either): Classic, even though I can't find the song to buy anywhere. I just love the mood of this song. Okay not the original video for the song but... watching him dance makes me smile!

I will help anyone with T5 clear too! I am in the same boat with Ilwe'ran about them healer pants from first coil.... ;__; And what a great idea Merri! It is heartwarming to see everyone jump into this thread wanting to give more than receive. Season of giving. This is why I love this holiday.