The Books of Xavarian

[Dasair]

Sanctum of the Twelve

 

Lenti

• 
  
• Present, praying?
  
• "..and pray safe if the queen, my mother.  That is all I ask."
  
• I spoke to him.
  
• He reacted in surprise
  - An explosion of flame
  - yelled at me to get back
  - though didn't seem to realize it was me?
  
• Demanded to know why I was there
  - I answered that I was wandering.
  - He assumed it was for.. business?
  
• Wished to be undisturbed in prayer at night
  
• However was fine with my presence
  - Was actually in better spirits than I make it sound in words
  - claimed to nearly mistake me for a treant
  
• Was surprised when I noted how loud the rain was
  - I imagine that he does not hear as well as I
  
• Mentioned he doesn't think he can afford to get a "cold here in Eorzea"
  - Sounds as though Eorzea is a place of transience.
   
  
• Asked about Duskwight hearing
  - I explained that we are far more sensitive to it than many on the surface
  - I mentioned I often speak in a whisper to others like myself.
  - He took that 'Duskwights are sensitive to sound'
  - Lenti is to be noted as not ignorant; should he use sound over me for some reason, it is unlikely to be a mistake.
  
• Then asked of Wildwood elezen
  - didn't seem to know the term exactly (being Wildwood)
  - I mentioned I believe their sight is of a high level, though their hearing is less apt than ours.
  
• Lenti
  - said he felt cheated
  - has no favorable eyesight
  
• I mentioned I do not fare well in the light hours with sight either.
  
• Lenti
  - Ancestors were Elezen and Lalafell
  - Not the Elezen of Eorzea
  - Note: It may follow that Lenti is from outside of Eorzea.
  - Hasn't ever seen a Duskwight before myself
  - Only mentionings of us from books.
  - Doesn't necessarily think descended from Wildwoods either.
  - He is, in fact, from outside Eorzea
  - Cannot see well in the dark
  

 

• 
  
• I asked of his Aether and earlier reaction to my presence
  - His Aether seems emotionally connected.
  - "I just think of something, or if I feel happy, or confident.. or.."
  - Similar to myself, it seems~
  
• Asked if this sort of Aether manipulation was also common in Eorzea
  - I am uncertain; I've not been up among surfacers too terribly long.
  - I mentioned more control with a wand or staff; a focus
  - mentioned I've been told I need 'more control'.
  
• "It's as they say...Aetheric manipulation isn't quite as easy as some may think... Some spend a lifetime just managing to channel what you can muster now, Xavarian." 
  - Perhaps this is why I have been called 'lucky' before.
  
• I asked if he may have problems with his Aether or abilities
  - I could not help but wonder if he had been in a similar situation as I, where.. it was not always this way exactly.
  - Did not appear quite so, at least by what he said.
  - Seems to have what is common for myself 
  - "If I'm too upset, or, or--flustered...I-- my train of thought is thrown off in the balance, my--what do they call it here in Eorzea..? Ah.. Adofaer-- no, no."
  - Otherwise, 'channeling' is common for him
  

 

• 
  
• Example
  - Apparently a 'white mage' of sorts thought Lenti to have corrupted Aether
  - attempted to 'cleanse' him
  - Lenti was unable to use his aetherical abilities for days
  - Did manage to recover.
  - Note: That is mildly terrifying.  I am unsure what would happen if I would ever be cut off from my Aether... it is unclear whether it would hurt or help.
  
• Mentioned 'white mage' was an Elezen
  - was not Eamond
  
• Lenti seemed to get worked up at the thought of White Mages 'corrupting others' Aether'
  - Though I never claimed this was something occuring
  - Unsure if I even am aware of any White Mages of eld.
  
• I mentioned Conjurers, in the case that Lenti was unfamiliar with them, for their healing
  
• I spoke of not meeting another prior with Aetheric.. divergences similar to myself.
  - Lenti seemed optimistic that we would learn more of our situation.
  

 

Linkpearl

 

• 
  
• Went off
  
• Professor was speaking, asking for our location
  - we told him
  - He arrived
  
• Passed us upon entry~
  - then his chocobo reared and knocked him off upon return.
  - he was fine.
  
• Lenti was.. apparently acting strange?
  
• Professor asked why we were here.
  - answered vaguely
  
• Professor in the Shroud to study Sylphs
  
• I gave the notes previously requested to him then
  
• Lenti
  - not familiar with writing Eorzean
  
• Professor 
  - decided we needed field training~
   
  
• Said that some touched Sylphs were causing problems for Little Solace
  - thus we will be helping take care of that.
  

 

------

 

Through the Shroud

 

• 
  
• Met others on the way
  
• Julius Bennet, Shieldbearer of the Phoenix Wings
  
• Another who's name I missed
  - an Aether user, perhaps a Scholar of Aether?  An Arcanist?  Used tomes.
  - Primarily healed and protected
  
• There was talk of the primals.
  - Apparently a group who aids in their defeat.
  - They did not know much of Ramuh
  - I spoke only of what I'd heard other Sylphs say.
  - The Professor did most of the speaking with them.
  
• We proceeded closer to Sylph lands, though prior to that, we had stopped some Touched Ones from taking some of Little Solace by force
  
• Eventually, we entered the [blot, streak]
  

 

[ a few more notes are here in an extreme 'short-hand' made up more of symbols than actual words]

 

-----

 

Bronze Lake

 

• 
  
• Apparently for a reward of our endeavor, we will be making a trip to Bronze Lake~
  - to be brief
  - nothing mentioned on when.
  
• Lenti is incredibly excited
  - cannot seem to keep curiosity curbed when piqued
  - "I'll be restless and I'll, I'll be staying up late...and then I'll binge eat like a madman?!"
  - Said as some sort of clarification to needing to know a 'surprise'.
  - Note: Remember this~
  

[Dasair]

I would like to learn ways of placing better wards.  I know some for strength and fortitude among other things, but the studies of Arcanima seem to lend themselves nicely to this endeavor, with their placement of geometries, and I feel it would be quite useful to learn.  [a few spots]

 

That really isn't the subject of my thoughts, but of course I worry about others finding this.  [blot]

 

Lenti seems similar to myself in an odd way.  His Aether may manifest in strange fits, according to what he feels, and not always in his own control.  It is intriguing, and apparently unusual.  ...Though it is much like what had begun happening to me.  I continue to wonder if.. if somehow we are alike, if what happened to me also had happened to him.  But then, there are so many other factors which might hinder this notion.

 

What if Aether treats those elsewhere differently?  It is hard to make a comparison to, not only one of the surface, but one from far off.  Furthermore, he is of mixed heritage, and I know not enough of the other races to have clear indication if this would make any difference in such anomaly.  Since this is based entirely on Aether of the self [blot]  and that some are not as proficient as others, nevermind what affected me may be something that would affect him different [blot]

 

The question becomes how to ask without asking~  In asking, I'd give away something I'd much rather kept unknown.  But it is a specific of the past. . . [blot]  Clearly riddles are the answer~ Though, really.  Perhaps with enough observation, it may become more clear.  I merely [a few spots]

 

Either he is much more powerful than I, or has had more practice with his Aether.  He seems both to know much, and know little, though I may seem quite similar.

 

I would certainly like to learn more of him sometime.  I wonder if he is fine with my company, or if I.. continually make him uneasy.

 

Likewise, the Professor continues his noted tendencies towards power.  I was glad to help the Sylphs from the Touched Ones when we did, but I realized his aims seemed more in tune with finding the center of Aether amidst the Touched Ones' home.  Which, I cannot deny, was quite fascinating.  Considering what I know of his goals, I can only wonder if he intends to utilize it somehow.  [a few blots]  I'd be curious to see where that would lead too, but should it bring any harm or disagreement to or from Little Solace, we may have some problems.

 

Since I must remain in the Shroud a bit longer for.. some endeavors that Solivuire brought to me, perhaps I will make a small visit to Little Solace again.  I wonder if they might care to hear more riddles~

[Dasair]

• 
  
• Alder Springs
  - marked drop
  - [there is a symbol drawn here that looks like some kind of crest.]
  - May be asked to caverns; unlikely.
  - Will be directed to next mark
  - Note: They won't want me to take anything down in their presence that isn't returned to them. Make notes on a spare, low-grade sheet. Give token.  At the next mark, burn sheet.  
  - If something must be noted, it will have to be out of their presence.
   
  

 

-----

 

Ellemeare

 

• 
  
• Hobbies
  - sewing
  - cooking (learning)
   
  
• Upset
  - her friend 'turned himself in' to his family
  - returned to Ishgard
  - meant to keep Ellemeare from being further threatened
   
  
• Ellemeare
  - Not going to Coerthas now
  - Hasn't been sleeping well
  - Accepts his decision however
  - not going after him
  
• Is curious about my Aetherical.. disturbances
  - Not bothered by them
  

 

• 
  
• Black Magic
  - Ellemeare apparently knows some of this art
  - It is possible to learn!
  - This is so exciting
  
• Mentor
  - Alderic Fierlaine
  - ran into him by accident
  - apparently owed her a favor
  - she saved his life?
  - Thus he.. taught her
  - Note: I am rather curious about this, considering that [blot] well, I thought quite a bit would be placed on trust and initiation.  Though I honestly know very little about Ellemeare and less about this man; certainly it must follow somehow.
  - Knew she was a thaumaturge without note of sceptor
  - Likely could sense Aether
  
• Ellemeare wanted additional skill "should Ciceroix's family start trouble"
  - Discussed her situation with him.
  - Was afraid at first.
  - Thought she 'might turn evil'.
  
• Black Magic
  - if used incorrectly can corrupt
  - also dangerous
  - 'frightening and exhilerating at the same time'
   
  
• Demonstration
  - Ziz = target
  - Used a single spell
  - large, bright, and loud explosion
  - ball of light that flashed in the sky
  - Killed the ziz by a single spell
  - It felt as though Aether from all around was pulling into the spell
  - Or at least, I could feel it as well; it seemed to be a power both hers, but beyond only her person.
   
  
• Ellemeare
  - seemed somewhat exhausted and taxed afterwards
  - noted that she would like to do more, but is inexperienced
  - Won't be able to teach me, unfortunately.
  
• Alderic
  - hasn't been heard from in days
  - "he secludes himself from time to time for studies... and when he does this he goes off any which way the wind takes him without word of when he'll be back."
  
• I asked if she would send word if he returns
  - she agreed to try
  

[Dasair]

Tam Tara Deepcroft - Undead

 

• 
  
• Met the Professor in Bentbranch
  - Sought to do science.
  - Interested in Tam-Tara
  - Apparently has some arrangements with the Wood Wailers
  
• Lenti arrived
  
• WE ARE STUDYING UNDEAD
  - This is incredibly exciting
  - going to attempt to discern how they work
  - observe, theorize, and test
  - perhaps eventually put gained knowledge into use~
  - No rituals... yet~
  
• Thalinias
  - Lenti's Chocobo
  - Lenti doesn't need scribing materials but may ask me if he runs low
   
  
• Undead make Lenti nervous
  - he continued to fear for my safety despite assurance.
  
• Lots of Aether in the area.
  - could be felt.
  - Different from the sylphlands
  - not as strong
  - More of a permeating smoke, something in the air, but one could tell it had great power.
   
  
• Old
  - Pre calamity
  - Once was a necropolis
  - now houses Lambs of Dalamud
  - Already know most of this.
  

 

• 
  
• Atar-
  - Lenti's Father.
  
• Lenti
  - Quite powerful fire magic
  - Repeated large explosive flares of some sort
  - Couldn't completely watch (too bright) but destroyed a number of skeletons
  
• Attempted to tell me to cease my curiosity
  - It didn't work, of course~
  - He was still worried for my safety
  
• Professor seemed pleased with Lenti's power
  
• Even after skeletons were destroyed, more rose to replace them.
  

 

• 
  
• Undead Observed
  - pre-entrance.
  - All skeletons of varying condition
  - All tall; likely tall elezen or something larger
  - All seemed to fit together relatively well
  - If patchwork was done, it was likely from the same type of body
  
• Behavior
  - typically seemed to ignore us.
  - Theory (Prof): They are all spelled by an Aether similar to what we exude, and thus, by our presence alone, they are not alarmed.  We feel 'familiar' to them.
  - Theory: They may be set to changes in behavior by trigger, and us wandering about simply is not any sort of trigger for a change.  Likewise, fireflies went unhindered; it may have been problematic for those doing the spellwork to have them react to all things that live, as they would certainly be considered much more of a threat to be eliminated than if they kept to themselves.
  - Theory: Also possible it may have been residual Aether of a certain sort from other practices occurring in the area or nearby.  Aether can cause interesting changes in something where there are high amounts, and it is certainly known to, at times, bring 'mobility' and objects inanimate to a state of 'entity'.
  
• Movements
  - mostly fluid
  - but clearly with some hitches
  - Would suddenly 'collapse' akin to one dropping hold of a marionette, before they would rise again.
  - Theory: This suggests that the magic keeping them upright is in flux and not entirely constant; something can get in the way of it, and thus render them temporarily 'severed' from the source of their power.  That, or there is a 'fading' aspect to whatever the source of power may be.
  - Note: Uncertain as to if they are controlled by a being, or by temporal spellery, though likely the latter; I think that something either akin to a ritual or a magical threading has occurred, and they are being controlled by parameters instead of a conscious.
  - Note: I would also think it possible, however, that a conscious knowing the ritual may be able to 'take up the strings' so to speak, of some of them at a given time.  However, that is purely theoretical trajectory.
  

 

• 
  
• What Disturbs Them
  - If one is disturbed, a number of them grow hostile
  
• Experiment
  - A theory was mentioned of aether near them causing them to grow hostile.
  - I attempted to create an 'aetherical disturbance of ice' within the perimeter, but not aimed towards any of them.
  - Results: They did not grow hostile, nor take notice.
  - I then attempted a near flurry, more central to the perimeter, yet aimed at none of them.
  - Results: They did not grow hostile, nor take notice.
  - The Professor asked me to then aim the flurry towards one of them.
  - Results: One was frozen in place, while others were then alarmed and grew hostile to attack us.  They were all dealt with accordingly, and soon replaced by others who were again, non-hostile.
  - Conclusion: They seem only to be bothered if outright attacked, or Aether is damaging them in some way.  Even if one is unable to do much about this, it will still send off a ripple effect, where others will react hostiley even if unharmed themselves.  When all those alerted are taken care of, any that remain or take their place will again, need to be triggered before they will take action.
  - Typical number of skeletons 'tied to each other': 5
  

 

• 
  
• The Professor
  - believes a Voidsent is behind this
  - seems near certain
  - Mentioned that we will return at a later time to investigate further.
  - Doesn't tend to listen to rules.
  
• Bronze Lake
  - Assistant Avis will contact us
  - Either by letter or linkpearl
  
• They returned to Gridania to eat and rest
  - I remained
  - Lenti hugged the professor
  - It was amusing
  - Lenti wasn't murdered.. yet~
  
• New students
  - Both Miqo'te
  - Faeryn
  - Deli
  
• Deli the Prof's first student
  - taught her to use Aether
  - "She's a huge rookie but she holds a huge potential."
  
• Avis also a student
  - thus there are 5 of us
  
• Lenti said he'd bring leftovers.
  
• The Professor gave me coin to bribe the Wood Wailers with.
  - I almost refused, then recalled I shouldn't imply my wealth.
  

[Dasair]

Asheloux

 

• 
  
• Wildwood
  
• Arrogant
  - Clearly knows nothing of Duskwights
  - Also clearly cares little for amicable first impressions
  
• Appearance
  - Fair skinned
  - long, dark and light hair
  - One eye is abnormal, almost like icy glass
  - wears shaded glasses, even at night; likely due to his 'sight'
  - Also wears well-tailored clothing; likely well off
  
• Met when he was taking notes on the ruins about Bronze Lake.
  
• I can tell he has a sufficiently strong Aetherical presence.
   
  
• Not named 'Very Interesting' despite his reply to my question after his own~
  - Also thought I was serious when I made mention of it
  - Either assumes severely low intelligence of me, seeks to be demeaning, or has no concept of jest. Likely all of them.
  

 

• 
  
• Studied me upon seeing me
  - apparently saw something of interest
  - circled me speaking to himself
  - "You look more like the aetheryte crystal over yonder rather than a dirty cave dweller."
  - "Tell me, what kind of fool wanders around with this much Aether on their person. It's rather astounding, really. You'll make a man like myself go blind with it all in one place." 
   
  
• Can apparently see Aether
  - I have half the mind to cause it to increase just to bother him~ Though that is hardly 'diplomatic' of me, I suppose.
  - I asked if it were a skill or by design, considering his eyewear.
  - removed the spectacles of sorts to show his unaligned unmatching eyes. (The former thought is rather amusing though~)
  - "Unfortunately for you, this is not something you can easily replicate as I do not know what exactly caused it, aside from my own carelessness I'm afraid." 
  - Apparently it was a mistake, or unintentional.
  - Says it's useful for his studies.
   
  
• He insulted Vathen.
  - called him a lowly pack mule
  - Asheloux doesn't carry his own materials with him, apparently~
  - Or is just that illogical and inefficiant to not request assistance~
   
  
• I said as much. 
  - Also noted 'ease' has little to do with what can be done
  - And that him knowing what happened would be useful, but not necessary.
   
  
• I think I offended him~
  - "You may work alone, but I have a score of researchers under me and a team of body guards behind them. As long as you rule them with an iron fist and the noose of detailed instructions, little mishaps have happened. Anyone who does not follow my instruction and still lives to tell about it is simply replaced." 
  - That sounds dreadful.  Impressive, but dreadful.
  - I wonder if he restricts their learning and experimentation by only exactly what is approved by him.
  - He also seemed proud of this.. self-proclamated law.
  

 

• 
  
• Asheloux's studies
  - Various magics
  - "Everything from what was, is, and could be."
  - Thinks interest in Aether is natural.
   
  
• Offer made
  - "As you seem interested in it yourself by the look of your load, I'll let you take a gander as to what it was I was studying that very day."
  - Likely could see what was in the various packs I had, due to their Aetherical potency.
   
  
• I mentioned his description of rule sounded dreadful
  - he thought I believed that he killed his own researchers.
  - ... And explained that he didn't.
  - "I watch them kill themselves and if they fail, then I let them go. I don't allow sloppy work in my order." 
  
• Despite his previous offer to show me what he was working on, he restated he wasn't actually inclined to.
  - especially one with my "particular background".
  - Mentioned if we met under more favorable circumstances he may share
  - For a Trade of Knowledge
   
  
• I offered that he tell me what kind of knowledge he was after, or let me choose something myself.
  - Guess what he picked between chance or decree~?
  - "If next we meet, I expect to know more about the strange flows around you and why I feel like I've been to bloody Coerthas and back." 
  - "Maybe then I will gift you with what I was studying, and what I know about this accursed eye I was gifted with soon after."
  

[Dasair]

[between these pages is a folded letter, with writing underneath in the book itself.]

 

"To whom it may concern,

 

"The Unceasing" has heard word of your offer and is greatly interested in your work. Marcus Vale invites you to the lands of Coerthas and the territories of Ishgard to spend a day with "The Vale Brothers." Lodging and cuisine will be provided the start and end of the day.

 

You will not be disappointed.

 

- Marcus V."

 

 

* "I do believe things happen for good reason. I have been told to deliver this letter to your employer when word had reached Coerthas. I think he will find the proposition quite... interesting. You have yourself a peaceful evening."

 

I've recently spoke to Soli about contact with Sanoesoix, the Crier known to work Above at particular behest.  He has actually worked for the Family quite a while, now that I consider it, and I'd been hoping that, perhaps, he may work under my employ to get word out about of the scribery and bookwork I might offer.  Solivuire thought it was an excellent idea, and.. well, managed to arrange a meeting between us rather quickly.  I didn't have to tell him much, it seems Soli already made most things rather clear.  Though it likely helped that he knows the Family, and their typical.. ways of doing things.

 

He told me that business Above was likely to be much slower than that Below, even considering that the Family had more than one scribe.  I suppose that follows, especially taking to note just how large and widespread the surface is.  How open.  A voice will carry far less distance, and furthermore, surfacers are much more slight in their hearing, it would seem.  Not only would Sanoe need to be within fairly close of them to be heard, but he'd need to be able to find interest, and with the wide expances of Eorzea, the different intricacies of surfacers, nevermind their odd hours, I cannot doubt the challenge that is at hand.

 

 It seems, though, that he has been doing an excellent job.  He had already returned, not long after setting out to start in the more familiar Shroud, with a letter given to him by a well-mannered man.  Elezen, though lineage was something Sanoe could not discern.  The crier does, however, have an excellent memory for words.  I believe he is also somewhat of a story spinner outside of his hire, so it would make sense.  The quote above is what he told me the man said to him, before his quick departure.  

 

I am actually rather intrigued, despite the care I feel I may need to put into this endeavor.  I know Coerthas is a dangerous place to find one's self in, and certainly nowhere for the unprepared.  Soli has since visited again, (visited me again, not Coerthas) and I asked that she may look into the Vale Brothers for me.  Again, she agreed, thinking that to be best, and has since been off doing whatever she does to prepare, though did warn me that the Family has other tasks for her, so it may be a time before she will get to it.  At the very least, I know she won't be letting herself into my room by her window entries, or waiting for me to return while squeezed into odd, small spaces for a while~

 

I know little about these Vale Brothers; if that is a title of particular men, or an organization, even.  And I would hope to know a bit more before heading into such a place.  I do know that there are those there capable of scribery, as is assured by the written letter.  And I know that 'I won't be disappointed'.  Which is an.. interesting sort of encouragement, implying something somewhat important on the other end.  I am unsure if this is a task that cannot be carried out by those already in their employ by law, by lack of trust, by danger, or otherwise.  But regardless, considering Coerthas and its people, it seems unusual that they'd request an outsider to make an appearance.  

 

... All the more reason I'm dreadfully curious~  It was ever exciting to travel elsewhere for a job, instead of being kept in the designated space the Family had me stay in.  And now that is nearly all of what I will be doing~  I will need to be careful, would definitely like some more information on what I am getting into prior, but it will certainly be interesting~

[Dasair]

Grimoire for Lafiaht's Mate

 

• 
  
• "Gotta have enough pages so the writer has room for mistakes, yeah?"
  
• "book for a beginner"
  
• "While I don't think he’ll be pursuin’ the art like I do I want ‘em to have enough room t’learn."
  
• He's a Highlander
  - big guy
  - small for the race
  
• "Gotta be able to fit in his hands proper so maybe somethin’ you can hold?” 
  
• “Not a fancy sort of man—no bells or whistles, probably make the cover leather.”
  
• Tan
  
• Might find me in the meantime for anything additional
  
• Thoughts:
  - Standard, Leather, Beginner's Grimoire
  - Minimum additions (weight customizing only perhaps?)
  - Simplistic design (perhaps only include the symbols and spell bindings that will circulate the Aether throughout the tome.)
  - Lowest-grade quality that the Family would allow to be parted with.
   
  

• 
  
• Payment
  - Trade of Knowledge
  - Will teach me some Arcanima
  - Non-specified (I left it to her discression, I'd just like anything, really.)
   
  
• Drop point: Moogles at the Mist.
  
• Lafiaht may wish to watch a tome being made at a later time
  - when both are less busy.
  - A logical thought~
   
  
• Moogles
  - didn't take anything from Lafiaht's scrollcase
  - Which she did recieve! 
  - Albeit late.
  - Unclear whether they went through anything
  - Appeared unopened anyway
   
  

[Dasair]

I've gotten my first Grimoire commission on the surface!  I [blot] well, I really should likely be working, but I am too excited~  I must spill some of these thoughts onto a page.  

 

I really wish to make this book a spectacular one.  Though the simplicity of it was requested, a Grimoire can be simple, yet still excellently crafted and comfortable in most ways, yes?  And as a gift!  That Lafiaht would come to me for something for her mate, something I would consider a rather important request, I must try my best not to disappoint her, or him.

 

Which reminds me.. when she mentioned that her previous partner merely left her with nothing in the desert... How incredibly dreadful.  She seems pleased enough now, having found another, living in a place she is clearly fond of, so I do hope it turned out for the best, but I could not help but be... upset.  What a terrible thing to do.  [a few blots] 

 

 

But now she is in Limsa as well.  Or, at least, close enough.  I take it somewhere in the Mist, staying with her mate.  No wonder my package reached her so late.  However, it did reach her, which was excellent, even if belated, and did answer a number of questions.  Namely that I cannot trust Moogles with my deliveries, and for anything that I feel must be timely or important, the old ways are best.  ... Though she did request I leave the Grimoire with them this time.  Hrm.

 

Also, hunting a dragon~  What an exciting goal she has.  I can't say I've ever truly seen one, save for zizz, if they even count (they really aren't that close, are they?) or puks. Though the more I consider, the more I feel it may be wise to accept Lafiaht and her partner's assistance through Coerthas.  Clearly they have been there, and [blot] were I better with healing magics, I may actually be able to help them more.  [a few more spots]

 

Really, I should be practicing. What will happen if Soli should ask that I assist her on one of the Family's requests, and I am so poor at it?  Perhaps, though, getting various commissions and the interest of those Above would.. dissuade such a request, for now.  Clearly I am gathering Knowledge this way, promoting further alliances, of a sort. They clearly know the uses, they'd had me doing it for years.  [a few more spots]

 

Though by the same thought, wouldn't it be exquisite to actually help Soli?  To actually do something of merit on an outing for the Family, save for [a few blots] well, I suppose what little they did have me do before was certainly of merit.  No other could have done it, I suppose, I [spot] I know it was important.  I merely.. I can't say I've ever had so much mobility, so much freedom, it's always been by their direction, decree, guidance, what was best for the Family.  But here.. Here I can set my own trade price; I am seeking Knowledge, and that Knowledge can be for myself as well as otherwise, not just merely by their decree.  Being able to have a part in what is to be, a part that is my own, to be able to learn all of what's around me, to be able to see and assist Soli in what she does as well, instead of her needing be the one to 'handle my affairs' as she likes to put it.  Thus far, coming Above has been.. far beyond anything I've even considered to expect, and there is only more yet~  

 

I'll.. I'll need to practice.  I wonder about the healing geometries in Arcanima.  As I understand it, it is quite flexible and self- sustaining as an art, so perhaps there are a number.  Perhaps more can be devised if there aren't~  Clearly they are there, though, as I've been asked for Grimoires that would accentuate that sort of magic.  ... Perhaps I should ask about that, should Lafiaht wish for specifics.. when she meets to teach me~ [there is a bit of a flourish to that tilde]

 

That will be so incredibly exciting, I really cannot wait~  Not only will I be able to see Lafiaht doing something she seems quite a bit to enjoy, gaining Knowledge all the while, but I will actually be able to use the Grimoire I made for myself!  Or.. one of them.  Certainly not the ridiculous ones I made as a child, but the latest one, the one that begs for use every time I see it, yet I've never had the ability.  Soon though!  Soon I will~  Well, should all go according to the plan, of course.  Or even just somewhat in the direction of the plan; plans are ever wont to change, regardless of all else.  An off-path saunter towards the plan would suit me fine enough~

 

First, I must make an exquisite, yet simple Grimoire.  I feel I may need to keep reminding myself of that in my excitement.  For the Knowledge gained, I merely wish it to be worth the price I asked~  But there is no use if it is not what Lafiaht, or her partner, desires.  Simple, remember to keep it simple.

 

Despite its simplicity, it must be up to standards, even if only the lowest ones I'd be willing to lay hands on, and I'll need a few materials yet.  I should set out soon, I've not much time, and would rather not be horribly rushed~

[Dasair]

• 
  
  
• Avis
  - Requested to meet by linkpearl
  - Prof. Jigumundo's assistant
  - Meet her at Moraby Docks
  - The place not far from the interesting, explosive, Calamity formations
  

 

• 
  
  
• Avis
  - Hyur 
  - Woman
  - Nearly dropped her book into the sea
  - Finds my choice of words entertaining
  - Quite curious
  
• Interested if flares of flame are common to my embarassment
  - curious about the Aetherical anomolies
  - Also curious if I "truly live in a cavern"
  
• Didn't quite answer about the anomalies
  
• Did answer about the caverns~
  [blot]
  
• She asked if she had permission to 'experiment on me'
  - mentioned she had a good sense of research ethics
  - Unlike the Prof.
  - "I'd completely help myself to it if I'm allowed."
  
• Resides in Limsa
  - notes that I am serious about my profession
  
• I noted experimentation rights depend on the experiments
  - that I will retain all freedoms
  - and all ability to refuse and react
  - I can't help but be curious what in the hells she'd do, though~
  
• She noted my 'meticulous'ness
  - she prefers to write after the fact
  
• She is also a scribe~
  - said I am 'giving her a run for her money' in the field
  
• I mentioned the mind filling in things different than they took place, as to why I write things down as they come.
  - Her reply: "The mind does, but that's a risk I'm willing to take. Writing after, not before, makes for greater clarity of thought as well." 
  
• Her scribe work description (and mention of myself)
  - "I do, informally - accosting strangers in taverns when I need gil and they need written confessions done for them. Recently, though, one of them deigned to point out to me that there are now more legitimate means of procuring that aid... I found an Elezen proclaiming a scribe's wares and teased out the name 'Xavarian'."
  

 

• 
  
• Seemed... very interested in Aetherical sparks jumping around on me
  
• Her thoughts on 'accosting people at bars'
  - "Those haunts are where men and women have the greatest need of a coherent letter. There is much to unearth from such sites, and you might find it profitable someday." 
  - Also mentioned me making an empire out of my abilities
  
• I mentioned I've my reasons for remaining out of bars
  - also asked if she'd thought about doing more.
  
• She has considered it
  - would rather spend her time on 'other forms of self-improvement'.
  - Such as traveling
  - Or doing as she pleases
  
• I mentioned my sparks so she might ask her curiosities
  - "I would be very much in demand as a sword dancer if I had a quarter of your very demonstrative aetherical qualities. It is an enjoyable enhancement to body language. Are you not wary that it might give away your inner thoughts?"
  
• I asked if she could tell what I was thinking by my Aether.
  - She said the would need to conduct some more experiments on me to be sure~
  - Thought I didn't believe her given purpose for meeting
  - At least, it seems, she cannot see my throughts~
  - Asked then, what was on my mind.
   
  
• She is a student in Arcanima
  - in that Arcanima resembles language
  
• She belittled Knowledge 
  - "Knowledge? What a stiff, prickly word. No wonder the Professor picked you out. I prefer 'information'. 'Secrets'. 'Tales'. 'Sentiment'."
  
• I explained exactly how doing such a thing is ridiculous and illogical
  - though she may choose slighter, more specific facets as she wishes, I will stick with Knowledge.
  
• [blot] She also said I had a nice voice
  - and should use it more.
  - Can one really be that interested in hearing me speak? 
  
• Her reply
  - "My dear Xavarian, I believe we are on the same page here. This has all merely been an issue of word choice. I consider myself an artisan of the written word, so some words appeal more than others in variously subjective ways. But. I will henceforth consider all communication between us as a transfer of knowledge." 
  - It seems we may merely have different diction
  
• Avis' outlook
  - "The word "stories" represents most of what I stand for. The experience of a sentient being in its varied shades and hues across space and time. The scientific pursuit can be said to be a subset of that."
  - I mentioned a slight lesser accuracy in place for interpretation
  - She said: "I wouldn't go as far as to slight the value of accuracy, but... we cannot help the way we see, feel things. There is value to subjective experience. Pure objectivity is a useless dream, and.... not at all fun." 
  
• I mentioned she might do well working with Wind and Water
  - She was curious.
  - Asked why I thought she would be good with Conjury
  
• She also noted that there is merit in my way of taking down words~
  - "It's what I said earlier about 'living in the moment'. There is an honesty in there that no other attempts to capture will ever accomplish.  There is merit to your peculiar way of punctuating conversations with writing, then. Though it is not at all intrusive or disruptive. Which is curious, too." 
  
• I explained a bit about the elements
  - how the two mentioned seem to suit her
  - that they might like her
  - She said: "I doubt they'd like me very much. I'd make them dance, throw up fountains and whirlpools for me if I could, just for the sight of it. Then write about this display of 'natural' beauty." 
  
• She wished me to teach her
  - I mentioned that I am not the best teacher
  - Though I will try
  - Note: I really must practice my conjury more when I am not [blot]
  

 

• 
  
  
• A trade of Knowledge
  - I will attempt to teach her what little of Conjury I know
  - She will teach me more of Arcanima
  - Between her and Lafiaht, I should get varying methods, and more practice
  
• Avis on teaching
  -  "I'm the most capricious teacher I know. Expect nothing less than the most questionable indignities."
  

[Dasair]

A few quick notes.  Or, I suppose, more a recollection.

 

I met Asheloux again while collecting wind crystals for the Grimoire.  He was, as expected, as rude as ever~  He had it in his mind that I should leave the place I was in, despite myself being there before his arrival.  He'd nearly tripped into me, which was rather amusing~  Of course, I did not oblige his.. strongly worded 'suggestions'.  Why leave when all I need is right where I am, and I can make him uncomfortable~?  It hardly seems up for debate~

 

There were, however, a few interesting things to do with this brief endeavor.  First, (though not in any order) he did mention his eye, after I briefly mentioned something vague about my Aether.  It apparently was an injury obtained from attempting to reverse engineer some old Allagan machines he'd uncovered somehow.  They were in fragments, and there were also crystals involved, that he'd found around Mor Dhona.  He claimed he didn't 'gather much from that' himself, though this is what he considered to be fair trade for the vague information I had given him.  I can't argue~

 

He also mentioned that I was the first to.. cause him actual pain by having so much Aether centered in one place~  Is it odd to be both a bit worried and flattered about this~?  I suppose that just results in my general amusement, though he seemed relatively amused about it too, despite reminding me how much I made his stomach churn.  He really does deserve to be bothered rather often for what he gives, though I find it interesting that I, in particular, give him so much difficulty.  ... It.. actually makes me wonder. . . [blot] Does he actually see what it was before?  Is what it was before even still there? Or hasit changed into something else entirely now?  And would his.. sight pick it up as harmful as it once was?  Certainly it does seem to affect him... [spot]

 

 

 He also mentioned something about it being unfortunate I'd not been killed somehow.  Not surprising, given how much he adores me, but something to note, I suppose.  The Family did always say to note everyone who may wish to kill you, and really, it's quite a logical sentiment.

Lastly, he'd mentioned that he was studying wind crystals and their possibilities of flight.  ... Which is interesting, though this was right before he left rather abruptly to.. throw up or something.  I'd really not had the time to ask him about it, but.. immediately I thought of Lafiaht, and her endeavors to get to the Nymian Ruins.  Perhaps, should I see him again, I will ask about this... or even, when I am not so busy, look into it myself.

 

Though, really, I should get back to working on the Grimoire.  [a few blots]  It is nearly complete!  Which is exciting.. despite my tired words here.  I will finish a bit more, get these wind crystals set, then rest.  There's not much more to do now.

[Dasair]

The Grimoire is complete!

 

I sent it, it has just been sent, I.. I actually tried to watch the Moogle to see where it may have taken the package, but lost track of it.  It?  Him?  I [blot] I am simply excited!  And nervous.  By Thaliak's scrolls, I hope I made no glaring mistakes.  I hope I didn't make a mess of this, my first commissioned tome on the surface!  And a Grimoire no doubt!

 

I tried my best to keep it simple, and it is rather.. quite plain.  Well, compared to most Grimoires requested, at least the true ones that are meant to be used as a Grimoire in some fashion.  [a few spots]   It is still of quality, of course!  I hope.  I did try to take the materials as far as I could, and choose them of the best standard.  But 'not fancy', plain, simple were what was sought, with no additions.  So it was made to the absolute lowest grade that the Family would ever have let out of their doors from me. 

I need to stop tapping the pen on this page.  Like I am waiting for something.  Nothing will come if all goes well!  Only if it doesn't, I suppose.  I should be endeavoring to get nothing  but here I am, writing nervous and tapping my pen all over my pages.  Hells~

 

I just hope it is liked, and I hope that the Moogle gets it to Lafiaht in time.  She did request it be sent that way, I should just trust her, she certainly knows more of these matters than I.  And it was so difficult not to make the Grimoire better!  Such a strange thing, when you know you are working below your abilities, and yet it is such an important thing to be working on [blot] yet requested to be at that par.  But it is something of merit, to be used, a first test, and bought by [blot] by someone who actually enjoys my company.  Someone fond of.  This is such a grande endeavor!  And yet, needed to be incredibly simple.

 

My first commission on the surface, the first one I handled myself, without any in the Family through the middle, the first not strictly overseen, not dictated by their own call of price.  The first for me, the first for one who knows me beyond my work, and a first of it's own, a step into new Knowledge for the one it's meant for, and a gift all the while.  It is all so important.

 

She said it would not be the last time she seeks a tome, so perhaps I will have another chance to create something exquisite later.  I hope, despite its simplicity, that this is still exquisite enough.

 

I'd just be really pleased if it serves the purpose it was meant for.  That it is a great gift for Lafiaht to give her mate, and that they are both happy with it.  [a few more spots]

 

By the hells, I need to get up and do something.

[Dasair]

• 
  
• Iqhii
  - Hyur
  - Woman
  - scar on face (recent)
  - blond hair
  - says 'you can say that' often~
  - Attacked in the Shroud
  - A couple days back
  - Doesn't know who or what it was
  - looking for clues
  - hasn't yet asked the Wood Wailers
  - Doesn't seem to be from the Shroud
  - certainly isn't saying everything
  - wary (though cannot be blamed)
  - found near Gridania
   
   
  
• Theories
  - in this area:
  - raptors
  - occasionally hostile fungars
  - elemental disturbances from time to time
  - Potentially unfriendly others seeking to steal from her
  - some imps are known to be around at times
  - If she had anything of interest:
  - bandits
  - thieves
  - hunters (either mistake or on purpose)
  - ixal
  - Any number of other possibilities depending on where she'd come from.
  - May have been followed.
  - Wrong place, wrong time.
  - Other factors in areas unseen
   
  
• Sylphs
  - may have been about to see something
  - though she mentions hearing no chimes
   
  
• Meeting
  - later, sometime in the same area
  - Outside Gridania
  - Prepare to take her to bandits' stronghold.
  

[Dasair]

The Salt Strand

 

• Formations up the cliffside
  - seem crystaline
  - yet also appear to be the mountainside itself
  - not 'additional', but perhaps a changed form of the Aether?

 

Jigumundo's Visit

 

• Melody's Research
  - She has a Nymian Tome
  - Non-translated, apparently rare
  - got it from someone, though who is uncertain
  - Suspected to originate in the Wanderer's Palace
  - Note: I believe that is where Lafiaht mentioned previously wishing to visit
  
• Believes a way to translate the tome might be found there
  
• The Prof.
  - Already has a team of adventurers
  - Himself, Melody, those who are more for 'brawn'.
  
• Much to do with Nymian Culture
  - civilization
  - Tonberries
  
• Not allowing us to go with them
  - Yet need us to help research
  - We'll accompany him in meeting 'Miss Melody'
  
• Will return with findings
  - scrolls, tablets
  - wish us to help translate them
   
  
• Melody
  - specialist on Nymian culture
  
• The Prof
  -help her gather information as experienced explorer
  
• Other adventurers for security
  
• Theory of Nymian Downfall (according to the Prof)
  - "Specialists claim that Tonberries are victims of a terrible sickness... Which made them homicidal and agressive."
  - Also short and green
  - Prof thinks tonberries = Nymians
  - civilization fell to some "epidemy".
  - Led them to kill each other and destroy all else in the process
  
• Melody believes that the tome = a journal
  - attempt to cure the sickness
  - That is going to be checked
  
• Accompany them to Bronze Lake when they meet
  - may be able to see the tome
  
• Tome
  - not actually certain what it is
  - may be a grimoire
   
  
• Some inks used in Arcanima
  - magical properties
  - made by Ul'dahn alchemists
   
  
• Avis
  - is noted to wish to stay away from those in Ul'dah

 

[The writing below here is... strange, to say the least. Compared with the earlier notes, this appears to be rather more careless? Unconstrained? The flourishes on the words are quite exaggerated, and the text is bigger than usual.]

 

Avis dances in fountains and lived in the desert city home

* all gone now

 

Jigging said something [there's a large blot that sort of trails to a streak off the page]

[Dasair]

By the gods and the hells, Avis, please.

 

I [a few blots] She started it all! Somewhat. Well, I suppose I chose to partake, so it is really my fault. [blot]

 

... I should not drink much so strong in their presence. I mean, well- it was for an experiment, but- [blot blot] I nearly melted them. I think. Or myself. ... Maybe? The professor, however, was far worse off, talking about softness, and cuddling things. ... Blowing up those nearby.

 

I only remember somewhat, which, hells.

 

My staff is not [streak, blot]

 

How dreadful.

 

Yes, I certainly just wa I am not even going to write that! Why would she even consider such things? I need to cool off, lest I melt my pen.

 

... Though I suppose it was somewhat amusing. And no, I am not going to be any clearer about this because the last thing I need is the potential for Soli to snoop through this tome, (which I would be tempted to -[blot] to freeze her for, mark my words Soli, I will know) and then have her asking me questions. Of...[blot] that nature.

 

Which would be highly disturbing, really.

 

[a few spots] The professor did say, though, that we were [spot] like his family. How odd, yet. ... Endearing. Despite him saying he was disappointed I didn't explode earlier, I mean really~

 

And Avis... I believe I said something I [spot] may have rather not. Still. Perhaps she will forget. Two words don't tend to stick that closely to many, hm?

 

... For the safety of all Lominsans, please.

[Dasair]

[There is a letter tucked into the pages here.]

 

Dearest friend,

 

In the spirit of Starlight, we are distributing blessings of prosperity to all. Please accept this gemstone and think of it as a token of good fortune.

 

-- Sisters of the Red Lotus --

 

 

Letter

 

• 
  
• Paper type
  - Mediocre; nothing of particularly high, nor low, quality.
  
• Script
  - Crisp, clean, immaculate - feminine touch
  
• Page treatments
  - None
  
• Any residual leftovers on the page (blemishes, prints, water damage, etc)
  - Nothing discernable
  

 

Gem

 

• 
  
• Appearance
  - small (palm sized)
  - crimson
  - engraved with what looks like a raven
  - flat
  - seems benign
  - has no marks or blemishes; nothing implying it was once part of something else (like jewelery, etc.)
   
  
• Aether
  - seems to have an Aetherical presence
  - Seems to draw in outside sources of Aether
  - My own appeared to be unaffected.
  - Though it was traced.
  - Then the gathered Aether heads off to some other location
  
• Attempt to follow
  - Towards the Mist
  - Then directionally shifted?
  - Or did I get turned around?
  - ... Had I been turned around this entire time?
  
• Location the 'threads of Aether' head towards seem to move
  - perhaps
  - Thus may not be a location, but something clearly mobile.
  - A particular person?
  - An item being moved?
  - Different beacons?
  

 

[a few blots]

 

• 
  
• When my Aether shifts it tries to avoid mine.
  - Other than feather touches.
  - Seems like it's trying to familiarize itself with my Aether
  

 

Experiments

 

• 
  
• Placed it near a raven (or raven equivalent)
  - Nothing occurred.
   
  
• Placed it near Aetherically potent objects
  - Doesn't absorb Aether from them
  - Appears to be taking in something specific, but not discernable just yet.
   
  
• Placed it near various elements
  - Does not seem to have any reaction
  

 

 

Compared with Avis' gem

 

[*] Her gem had a book engraved into it.

[*] Smaller, her palm size

[*] Appeared to be doing the same thing as my own, save for I could not feel the 'touch' from hers, nor could she feel any 'touch' herself.

[*] We briefly exchanged them and nothing malicious happened.

- Though we got the sense that they were made particularly for us, given her gem did not seem to react to me.

[*] Avis also received a letter.

- seems to be the same.

- Why in the hells did we both get these?

[*] She was unaware that I had also gotten one until she came to me to ask about hers.

[Dasair]

How quick the surface is. Things move at such a fast pace, over and over, everything continues to place it's little bits of Knowledge so quickly, that it's hard to keep up.

 

I met with Ellemeare, and some man who'd give not his name.

 

The former [blot] She [spot] she said she considered me a friend. I [a few blots] I mean, I don't know how that happened, especially considering how she explained. She said that I was one of the few things constant in her life, that.. I was there when others had gone, and. [a few more blots] Well, I feel I've hardly been there at all. I think we've met all of four times, perhaps? And I know so very little about her, or [blot] well, at least I feel I do. And she even less of me. And yet. [a few more spots] She seems to trust me somehow.

 

Hells, I don't even know if I trust myself all that much, in a number of situations. Especially where she [blot] well, something more seemed to have occurred as well. Her mentor was accidentally killed by.. some uncontrolled flaring of Aether, and she blames herself for it. That.. must be dreadful, especially after she'd mentioned that she saved his life before. She sounds to have gotten into all manner of messes, but is learning more how to control her power, at the least. [a few spots] She asked if I could give her a hug once she told me.

 

She needed.. something, surely, and [a few spots] I know little of friendships, how one is meant to be a good friend, I'd always thought it was to do with knowing each other, and with that, such things would come. [blot] I write as though I were some emotionless being, lost and unsure of what it is to have such inclinations, and while I'm not the former, I really don't know how to go about showing the latter~ Everything seems so different up here, what if friendship is not the same on the surface? Though, really, I've only read about it, because as I understand it, friends are not Family, and [a few blots] well many would not count Vathen. That really only leaves those of Little Solace. It is perfectly possible though, that all manner of cultures do things differently. I'm not sure it would be appreciated if I gave Ellemeare some poisonous milkroot, and greeted her with a dance, as the Sylphs would enjoy, and I really don't know how else to go about it.

 

Though despite my fears of either freezing or burning her, I did give her a hug. ... I hope I didn't do it wrong. I've never [blot] well, no one really.. ever touches me. Why would anyone want to get close to someone who erupts in Aether every other given moment? It's really just.. [blot] logical sense, I suppose, but. She wanted to anyway. I.. managed to keep it down and not hurt her, and.. well, whatever I did it seemed to soothe her some.

 

She is so incredibly nice to me. Incredibly nice. She showers me with kind words, and trust when she knows me so little, and [spot] It's It sounds odd, but I don't even understand it~ Well, I mean, of course I understand that she's being nice, but. As in just [spot] just why? I'm trying to accept it, it is likely just who she is, but it's still just... incredibly... different. Is it wrong to be worried about someone being kind~? Probably. But I feel like.. I feel like I should somehow be able to return such feelings of, apparently, utmost trust, and I just cannot. At least not in the way that she seems to feel. I trust her enough not to wish me harm, or [blot] ill, and to keep her word when she claims she'd do something, but, there is still.. that doesn't seem like the same trust she claims to have in me. It's not because of her, but because I don't really know her yet. We've not been through enough, I know little beyond her niceness, troubles, and the few choice life details she decides to tell me, and she knows near nothing of myself. I can't help but wonder if this is some [blot] cultural dichotomy, but. Well, I suppose that is part of why I'm about, hm? Not to say that I don't like her, and don't wish to be her friend, I'm.. flattered, and pleasantly surprised, despite not knowing what I'm doing~ But I [spot] I suppose I wish it were more equal somehow, in feeling. I hope I don't disappoint her too terribly. [spot]

 

She did something else, though, that is of note. I believe she attempted to suppress my Aether. Keeping the heat down to a cool, but when she did [blot] I felt [a few spots]

 

It finally came back. The uneven spells of whatever in the hells is wrong with me. It hadn't happened for a long while, quite a long while. Much longer than it had ever stayed at bay Below, so much that I could, of course, move about freely. Explore without issue. It never seemed to come up! And it has been such a treat, such a freedom to be able to move about as I please, but. Then... it surfaced. Not much. Only just a little. And... well I'd been wondering where it'd gone.

 

It was actually more exciting than it was worrying, because then I knew a bit more about it. Whatever sort of Aether suppression she managed, it brought it back; which. Well, I mean, I had been wondering if I should suppress my Aether all along, but this implies I shouldn't. That I should let it be as it is, however it's changed itself, and I'll be able to move about~ By the gods, I can't imagine how it would've gone if I had done something myself in the ways of suppression. It likely would have been much stronger, which may have been much worse for me. And she did a good job of it too! Managed to keep it down to a point that wouldn't hurt her [a few blots]

 

I need to think on this more. But there it is, anyway.

 

She now resides at the Goblet, in the case that I should wish to visit this... family she's staying with. I [blot]

[Dasair]

Avis

• Comes from a family of brutal merchants.
  - claims the story is rather dull
  
• Very curious about my past endeavors
  - Though such things will not come simply from me.
  
• Offered a Trade of Knowledge
  - She asked what I wanted.
  - I said: "For the Trade to be at least equal… by all honest measure, what I’d like to know is something about yourself you’d rather keep hidden~ Something you don’t speak of, and wouldn’t speak of, to any but one you’ve a reasonable trust for, because, whether it will or not, this thing feels like its telling could leave you vulnerable.. or even subject to a change that frightens you~ That is what I need to know~ For something of that nature, that is clearly of that nature, that is what you will get from me, hm? As well as, I would hope, a relative respect for Knowledge of this nature to be treated accordingly~”
  - Conditions: Not to be spoken of to others (both).
  - She did not yet choose to give anything, as such, for now I have won~
  
• [blot] She also left the 'decision' up to me.
  - On [a few more spots] an experiment.

___________

 

 

 

[a few blots]

 

She couldn't have been serious. As though I am going to let her get away with that~

 

Yet... [blot]

 

Well if Avis would go that far, even if I challenged her, at least I ra[a large blot, something scribbled out in a mess of ink]

 

But that doesn't matter. What matters is she can't be serious, and I am going to call her on it~ Eventually. Maybe. She takes such delight in seeing me unable to deal with her words at times, well I can't help but wonder what she'd do trapped in her own phrases. Would she really offer herself as a solution to [blot] those [spot] 'problems'? Would she really go on several 'hypothetical dates for scientific reasons' insofar as to study me further? Subject who she is to [spot] myself in that way? Is the Knowledge worth that much to her? I very much doubt it~

 

Though..[blot]

 

On a different note!

 

I think I won~ At least on one point. ... Well, I didn't actually win anything, really but anyroad. She is.. [blot] ever curious about me it seems, as I am of her, really. And I do hold any number of Secrets, not all that are mine to give. However she wants to know mine. And. Well, they may not be very interesting when out, they are still bits of Knowledge that are close to me. I can't let them go that easily, and certainly not without something at least equal in value in return~

 

She wasn't willing to give what I asked for, as I imagined. Many wouldn't. It's .. quite important. Which is exactly the point; I can't help but wonder if others give her such details so freely. Though I know that some would. . . they don't often realize the meaning, the inherent value, of what such things are to the self. ... Then again, they may not matter to others, perhaps. Perhaps she's just met any number of people whom it didn't matter to, which is always possible. Yet.

 

I feel that those who are wise, and have something worth holding, even if it isn't much in itself, but enough to tell about the one holding it... they are the sort to keep such things close. She keeps those things to herself, or even, perhaps, away from herself. Yet certainly not wanting them in the hands of anyone else.

 

To which I respect fully~ ... And also why I think I won~

 

As curious as she is of me, I have no reason to give myself to any who wouldn't value the knowledge for more than having it. Trade is required. Knowing me for Knowing you; and even that doesn't count for everyone, only for those... well. Who seem worth Knowing. I think all have Knowledge that is worth the time, something one can learn from, grow from, and likewise give in all number of ways. Yet..

 

Personal Knowledge, Knowing someone is different. It is the place I will choose. Only some will get opportunities beyond what I give in observed action. Even fewer still will take them, have the patience for them, be willing to [blot] show themselves for them. It's the only way it's Equal, and by the hells, for the first time, even in light of being on a surface, a place already bent against what I am, I'd really like to be Equal.

 

I doubt it will happen. But it is the one place I can hold out for it, and I won't let it go for anything less. The vaguely curious, the 'interested but for a moment', the ones who want to know to toss it to the wayside later, like a once interesting feather they no longer care to hold onto.. let them find someone else's secrets to toy with till bored. Even if the Knowledge isn't put above much else, even if it becomes a ghost, shifting shadows in the back of one's mind... I want it to have meant something once. Let it be something to have been learned that really mattered somehow. Something obscure, little value to most but maybe means something to someone, for if they really want it, it will be there.

 

Knowledge has an interesting way of being what you want it, or need it, to be at times. What one puts into it is what they get back. And I'd just really like what I have to be worth getting. But if even an equal trade is too much, not worth the time, the price, not worth to the one asking what it takes for the one giving it in the first place, then I doubt it'd really mean something, hm? I will give... but only what I think will matter. And I can never say what will matter to another, but posing such a trade is a good way to get a closer idea.

 

Not that I really.. actually expect the Knowledge to be that to anyone. That anyone would want it so much. I'm really [blot] just some mess~ But I'd always liked the way some Knowledge really means something, and that what means something can be any Knowledge at all, depending on the person after it. That a key was dropped by some rocks. The name of one's mother never known. The answer to a riddle. The last thing a child said before leaving the other day. A book title. A simple tale from another's life.

 

[spot]

 

It can be among those things too, right?

 

[blot]

 

Anyway. If she wants it someday for something equal back, it'll be there as long as I am. Meanwhile, I'm perfectly glad to be in her company otherwise. She seems to think we don't get along, though she's [spot] I'm fond of her.

 

Even if she seems to enjoy tormenting me, by the hells~

 

She got one of those gems too, actually, (I wrote the notes on a prior page) so perhaps the both of us can figure out what is going on with these curiosities.

[Dasair]

Sylas Peregrine

 

• Lafiaht's mate
  - practicing Arcanima
  - blew up a rat
  
• Got the Grimoire~
  - finds no problems with it
  - thinks it's perfect
   
  
• Ruin
  - 1st Offensive spell many Arcanists learn
  - A sphere of unaspected Aether meant to explode on a target
  - He cast it by forming the Aether, then smacking it with the Grimoire into a rat
  - The rat exploded (rather gloriously~)
  
• Live in the Mist
  - Invited to come by sometime

[Dasair]

I am still so incredibly glad that Sylas found the grimoire to be perfect. Perfect! I don't think any have said quite a thing about what I have done for them before, and this. This grimoire was of such importance, I am so glad that he finds it so pleasing~

 

He himself was a rather interesting man. His thoughts on Aether were most intriguing, things that I rather agree with fully, and [blot] it was somewhat... endearing, how often his mind drifted to Lafiaht. She clearly means so much to him, and, well, it was - is adorable the proper term~? To see how much he thought of her, how much everything connected back to her in his mind, and how much grand change she'd brought to him; things he felt he never would've known without her. 'Adorable' is not a term I use very often, I suppose, but I.. I always enjoy seeing when another is truly excited over something, expressing something that they truly.. love. Something that lights their spirit in such a way to have them act as they wouldn't otherwise, so consumed in the moment that they beam and grin, lose themselves in their thoughts, their whims, and are so caught up with the Knowledge, the experience, of what's before them, that they show a bit of themselves that would otherwise never be seen. A glimpse of what truly matters to them.

 

He is a good man, from what little I can tell. I fear at times much of what I spoke of ran its way past him; he is the sort who is.. a deep thinker, but not necessarily 'scholarly', I suppose. Still, I doubt not for a moment that he knows a great many things, especially considering the thoughts he expressed to me. Intelligence fares in all manner of ways, even those - especially those - less familiar to me. I wish him well on the rest of his studies, and hope we may meet sometime again~

 

Though, I doubt I'll ever find them in the Mist. ... Unless I'm not meaning to, then perhaps~

[Dasair]

Spirit

 

• Translucent spirit of a woman
  - wore a white dress
  - white hair
  - white eyes and skin
  - Had a Red Lotus pin on her clothing, that stood out the most
   
  
• Visions
  - blood
  - a dagger raised before punging downward
  - life leaving
  - water grows red with blood
  - ...no peace.
  - whispers, flowing like an unending river
  - screaming and howling
  - begging for mercy
  - cursing the gods
  - cursing me
  - "The raven, the Raven, the RAVEN. Why... why WHY?!"
  
• She came closer
  - "Life was given. Life was stolen. For you. For YOU. For the Raven. For the Mountain. For the Bear. For the Oak. For you, You, YOU."
  
• I ask what I can do to answer her
  - She doesn't speak words, though I hear thoughts.
  - There is anger, wishing for revenge, anguish
  - "Find me. Find Me. FIND ME."
  
• More visions
  - A splash of water
  - hulking creatures move through muddy... liquid
  - A strange tree looming over heat, golden sand, and stone
  - A knife plunges deep
  - Life leaves.
  - Aether streams off in shining strands
  - Likely the place where she died
  - And the place she wishes me to find.
  
• She then moved elsewhere, back the way she came
   
  
• A Miqote was near me
  - started stammering about how he got similar visions
  - asked if I knew what to do or how to help.
  
• Got something different
  - "I saw something again! I saw what looked like some sort of expedition she was going on, perhaps she was a soldier...? She didn't call me anything though, no names... I just saw blood. Lots and lots of blood..."
  
• Mentioned an 'Oasis Place'
  - said he was a dancer and entertainer
  - not 'cut out' for a murder mystery
  
• Oasis Place = Forgotten Springs
  - Sagolii desert
  - claimed the setting of the sand and water looked familiar
  
• Had not heard of the Sisters of the Red Lotus
  
• She wandered by again, and I got another vision
  - Cold water
  - ran up to her ankles
  - a menacing tree overhead
  - Creatures as large as homes nearby
  - sands warm from the sun
  - antlings were too far to be dangerous
  
• Looked at us with white eyes
  - then vanished into a mist

 

• The Miqo'te asked why us
  - I mentioned I thought I knew what it was connected to
  - showed him the gem
  
• He thought perhaps I had killed her in a past life
  
• I said I thought it was connected to the stone itself, what it's doing with Aether, or perhaps that she is connected to it somehow. Perhaps 'The Raven' owned this gem prior, or it was created from something of theirs.
  - Thus she connects me, as the holder, to The Raven
  
• Miqo'te thought that she might equate me with the Raven, her killer, and wish me to atone for his crimes somehow.
  - Is not a scholar
  - Though offered to help by seeking out information at the Taverns
  
• Miqo'te
  - Waltz Concerto
  - traveling dancer and entertainer
  
• I gave my first name
  
• Waltz decided he would help me and needed nothing in return
  - wished to see the woman at peace.
  - would contact me with what he learns
  
• He would also like to know what I find out
  - Should send word to him by Moogles with 'Waltz'.

[Dasair]

Note to self: Lafiaht is going to help me sort out whatever is happening with these gems, and perhaps the spirit as well.

 

[blot] She doesn't seem particularly pleased about the situation, but is rather willing to help with the hunting. Her carbuncle needs things to sniff out. I hope the letter would suffice enough. I've since sent her copies of my notes, and told her about everything I know of the thing gem.

 

[a few spots] I hope to hear from her soon, and [another spot] well, I'm quite grateful for her assistance. She says not to worry about it, that she needs nothing in return... [a few more spots]

 

But she gives off the air of one who is mildly trapped. In some way, I wish I could give her something so she might be able to pursue what she'd like, instead of being held by the other obligations she notes keep her from such endeavors. I doubt she would take it though, even if I did. And it would.. likely be 'weird' as she puts it. Though I hardly see why.

 

[blot] There are times I feel... it is unfair what I have. Though I suppose, of course, there are trade-offs. Other possibilities. I likely would never have survived were it not for my particular... situation. There are likely families that would have left me, being of little use to them in any way. I am always grateful, but I cannot help but feel the wish to somehow give more to those who could really use it. The Family tended to be very... tight about what they would give, and for what price, the Trade being of utmost importance, even though, at times, they would ask for something very 'little' and others something very great.

 

[a few blots] I've written all I am thinking here before.

 

I just cannot help but find myself wishing she had further freedom. Perhaps, though, she has exactly as she wants, what she chose, so really, my thoughts are invalid. I suppose a better thing to say would be, I wish she could have what she's after, to pursue more of it without feeling that it's out of reach. ... If that's what she really felt, anyway.

 

[blot] I didn't mean to ramble here, but look what happened~ I ought to be working on other things.

[Dasair]

The Eagle and Quill Bookstore

 

• Rachelle Aquilloux
  - Manager
  - May be Duskwight?
  - Her Family name is not familiar to me [blot]
  - Seems kind enough
  - Has a coeurl kitten
  
• Seeks to hire me as a scribe

 

• Agreement
  - I will split the profits for scribework
  - From those who come into the store seeking such services, profits will be split.
  - Outside commissions are my own.
  - I will take Trades of Knowledge as I please.
  - However, I will help with mending tomes, or binding new ones for the store as needed in exchange.
   
  
• Thoughts on this
  - Higher-end gil commissions (of those who enter the store seeking them) I will split.
  - Lower-end gil commissions (of the same) I will keep, as per to recoup material costs (especially since they have none here, it seems).
  - Trades of Knowledge are my own, though I will certainly give the Knowledge that I think may help those in the store.
  - I will pay all manner of 'rent' should it be needed.
  - I will mend tomes on request of the managers and assistants for nothing in return.
  - I will create blank books on request for the Quill for nothing in return.
  - The place alotted to me will be a study for my work.
  - I will bring in customers to the store on my own accord; typically those who'd enjoy the tomes as much as I~
  - It sounds that they will help me advertise as well, somehow, though I know not the details on this beyond what Sanoe already does.

 

• Dietrala Verglace
  - Nervous Miqo'te woman
  - Seemed to have trouble speaking when she arrived.
  - pouts often
  - has a close relationship with Rachelle
  - one of her best assistants
  - Apparently one named Khairi is also an assistant
  
• Has a crystal stuck in her cheek
  - reacts painfully to ice Aether (or my shifting anomolies)
  - has been there for two years
  - keeps it covered with a bandage
  - speculates a heated bandage would solve the issue?
  - needs to keep it warm, perhaps an opposing countermeasure is somehow the solution [blot]
  
• Mention of one named Danasorian
  - would apparently have a 'pissy fit' over something
  
• Dietrala is sleeping with Khairi
  - [blot] Unsure if that is literally, or [blot]
  - Maybe both, considering.
  
• Dietrala doesn't want a proper room
  - currently resides in storage with Khairi
  
• Dietrala showed me about

 

[there is a vague layout diagram here of what looks like two floors of the same building. Certain sections are labled: Physical Sciences, Aetherical Sciences, Geology, Mining, Mythology + Legends, Philosophy, History, Biology, and Anatomy. The second diagram has no labels. Next to it is written 'OLD']

 

• Non-fiction books are warded
  - Lightning Aether will harm anyone taking them out without permission
  
• Map under the desk in the front.
   
  
• Others' rooms
  
• Dietrala + Khairi
  - storage
  - filled with books
  - knock if a customer needs attending
  
• Meeting room
  - important announcements held
  - "usually by our stuck-up financer"
  - Ishgardian Noble
  
• Mira + Lady Micharan Danasorian's room
  - Danasorian = Financer
  - "Mich has a bit of a stick up her ass, but she's a good person." - Rachelle
  - Mira = "a sorta ditzy coeurl"
  - handmaiden of Danasorian
  
• My room
  - relatively empty for now
  - I'll need to move everything in soon
   
  
• Previous Manager
  - "Our previous owner was good, but... she sorta killed a lot of people."
  - "Raynard was trouble."
  - "By the way... if you find a book in circulation writ by a Zerayya al Rahal? That's her. I suggest not reading it... or, at least, not trying out what is in her book."
  
• Dietrala claims that's 'above my paygrade'.
  - ... I can't help but be terribly amused by that, considering what my 'paygrade' is on my own.
  
• Advice and Request by Dietrala
  - "If you see a scruffy Wildwood man with a big spear sitting out front or downstairs, that's probably Exantraux. If it's not? Kill him with fire."
  - Conversation between Rachelle and Dietrala:
  R: "Please don't do that, love, I need him whole."
  D: "I said if it's not Exantraux!"
  R: "They're probably customers then! Don't kill the customers! We had enough killing here!"
  D: "NYEHHH." (in defiance)
  
• The Professor
  - Professor Fluffernutton, Honored Beast of House Danasorian
  - the coeurl kitten
  - Mira's cat
  
• Dietrala
  - called 'Dee'
  - Refuses to get a room
  - Or take a bath, apparently.
  - Dee and Rachelle seem to [blot] bicker like an older and younger siblings.
   
  
• Question (Rachelle asked)
  - "How good are you at removing ensorcelled ink? One made of spoken blood, specifically."
  - I mentioned it depends what it was on, but that it could be done.
  - Reply: "... I'll ask for your help sometime, maybe. Let's just say Miss Reynard left... a lot of things behind."
  - I agreed to help
  - She returned to the basement to get drunk with the Professor.

 

• I was heading out
  - heard someone coming in asking about theories of the Void
  - Titled 'Into the Abyss'
  - Syrana Nuveri was her name
  - Leader of Alteria's Breath
  - The book is within the previous owner's personal collection
  
• Note this.

 

[At the end, there is another diagram here, scribed much more elaborately and precisely, of what might be the previous layout. Everything is neatly labeled, and it looks like a valid map and floorplan in itself. There is a note near it with an arrow pointing to it that reads 'Use This One']

[Dasair]

Grimoire Order: Notes

 

• Gift for someone getting into Arcanima
  - Perhaps beyond beginner, but by description, doesn't sound to be yet advanced. A novice?
  
• Healer
  - "can't imagine her hurting someone"
  
• Carbuncle - focus
  - "Stumpy stunted little thing"
  - Likely something to enhance her connection to it, and its power.
  
• "Authoritative figure"
  - "something with some 'oomph' would put a smile on her face."
  
• Lighter palette preference
  - Something ornate, gleams when used
  
• Whites and Silvers
  - favors extravagance
  - something that flows and is fancy
  
• Complete as soon as possible
  - 5 day pick-up / check in time
  
• Payment: 10,000 gil, and any crystals she may cross.
  - rather cheap for what she's asking.
  - though much more would be problematic for her.

 

First Thoughts

• Elaborate Healing and Channeling Grimoire
  - Use of Wind and Earth Crystals to augment and enhance a Carbuncle's abilities.
  - Use of Water Crystals to augment the grimoire to a more healing-sort of aspect.
  
• Features
  - Weight customization
  - Aether enhancing
  - High-grade paper, silver-leafed page edges
  - Travel ready
  - Easy snap shut, and open
  - Elaborate metal-work cover
  - Elementally resistant
  - May consider others later on.

[Dasair]

Asheloux's Eye

 

• Hard to explain what he sees
  
• Like a flow of light
  - certain movements or patterns can be discerned
  - sometimes recognized as spells
  - Areas around Dalamud's fall =/= cast fire
  - Elementals = something of their own
  
• He doesn't understand the elements that well, it seems

 

 

Incidentally, and amusingly, Asheloux was the first to know of my new place of work. He'd caught me once when I was moving, and since came to visit. [blot]

 

Despite reminding me continuously that he can hardly deal with my presence, he did follow me to the Eagle and Quill when I was heading there, and since returned to visit. [a few spots] Oddly, it seems we may have more in common than I previously thought.

 

He'd mentioned that [blot] he hasn't seen much of the world himself. He'd only been able to wander, I believe it was 8 or so years back? I didn't write it down, as [spot] well, my Aether was being.. problematic.

 

Oh, right: Remember that he was after books on Nymian History. He gave no specific titles, but [spot] well, he is researching the topic, so should he not find any on his own, Rachelle may be able to help him if he returns.

 

Anyroad [blot] he expressed some interest in learning more of my Aetherical work at a time when he might be able to .. tolerate my presence~ Though in truth, I've hardly been able to experiment with nor test much of what I would like to. I'm sure he likely has much more Aetherical skill and experience than I, though I [blot] well, I have been a part of some.. interesting things, of course. And [spot]

 

Well, I still couldn't tell him what he wanted to know. But I also couldn't get that far into it without [a few spots] letting something be known I'd rather keep closer. [a few more blots, and the entry just ends abruptly there]

[Dasair]

I still wonder if she read them.

 

I mean- I thought she had, the way she [blot] At least some, certainly, and the last time we spoke, before parting, how she [blot blot] but I don’t know. She knows I read hers. [blot] Her letters, I mean. How strange it is, to be stuck in two worlds the way we are. There is the one where we are merely and much more than the words we string together, carefully with all manner of feeling we wish to give to them, their rhythm or rhyme. [spot] By mere mention of those words, implication of the thoughts, I feel that world pull me, the place I feel much more of who I am, despite not really being there quite at all.

 

And then there is the world of bodies and stumbling phrases. The one where Avis nearly slips into the ocean at my every arrival. The one where I can never quite say what I think, never quite speak all that rushes around my mind, as it moves far too quickly; I grab at the thoughts fleeing, and get only a piece, another piece, and then another gets in the way when I try to find the rest of the one before. Even here. Even in my own tome I don't always write what I think, as though [a few spots] they are going to find it.

 

I already saw the result of my mis-matched phrasing. I [spot] I think she understood that I was speaking the truth when I explained. It is really only doubt that keeps me from saying she did; I think my desperate.. word vomit amused her far more than it.. perhaps gleamed real understanding. Though I cannot be so bold ever as to assume what she may or may not understand. I hope, though, that she knew I did not mean what she thought. I take she does. She was kinder afterwards. I [blot]

 

It was just horrifying that she might think that I did not appreciate, did not absolutely cherish, the deliberate truths that she writes. Not even necessarily truths in the common sense of the word, but truths of feeling, of how words fit when in that world, a place I'd thought for the longest time would be only a solitary escape. I couldn't even capture a phrase that would rightly explain how I feel for them, her letters. Knowledge does not hold the same meaning for her as it does for me. But anything less would be a disservice. More than poetry. More than stories. More than tales, or musings, or intimate written soliloquy. It was a conversation between the innerworkings of us both, through a medium of our [blot]

 

I can’t even write the word I was going to, without trailing embers, thinking of what she’d likely say to me if she read it~ Hells, am I to have her quips hovering over my mind as I write to myself, now~?

 

Whatever it is, it is.. so very close to us, something that would never otherwise be known or seen, and I cannot even find the winding phrases to place which would quite purvey the same feeling.

 

[blot]

 

There is so much I am not saying. It all continues to rush through my mind, all of it~

She adored the Eagle and Quill. I was so glad I could show her, that she would now have a place to go and be surrounded with the stories she lives for. Avis said she might’ve been looking for years, and now she has it there and it is so terribly exciting~ I am not sure those who run the shop may necessarily appreciate her sleeping in it, per-se, though. I [blot] I offered she could stay in my study, should that be an issue, and [a few more blots]

 

Well, of course she had something to say about that! It wasn’t- [blot] I mean [a few more spots] Well, I am awake during her hours of sleeping, am I not? I do not see how it would be that strange, if she were to rest while I work in the other half of the room. I mean, if she truly wished to stay there, that would be the logical solution. I doubt they would accept her staying in anyone else’s room.

 

[a few more spots]

 

The next time [blot]

 

How would I even bring that up? I feel I will merely have to storm up one day and [blot] just say it.

 

[blot]

 

Though whatever it is that had occupied her mind in... dissonance when I found her, I hope it is somewhat remedied.

 

[a few blots]

 

I am surprised, though, that she [a few more spots] would take my hand. Even just for a moment. She.. is certainly not like them.

 

[There are some blots on the page, as though the book were hurriedly snapped shut before the ink fully dried.]