Memoirs of Adventure Creative Writing Contest (NA) - Official Entry Thread

I write this to a friend. One who I have not met yet, but certainly has faced hardship. Gone through trials and pain. There are many things that keep an adventurer going. This story is to bring a smile to another hero's face.
The date escapes me, though it seems ages ago. Myself and my closest companion had overcome many obstacles together. Each of our enemies vanquished and we were awash in the glow of victory. Ahead of us loomed an enemy we had yet made our mark upon.
We gathered adventurers with promises that the battle would test their steel. Grit and fortitude would be required and these men and women six claimed to have it in bounds.
At the battlefield we strode forth, heads held high. We would endure, no matter the difficulty. This would be a tale told in minstrels’ ballads. As we charged forth, we could feel the rush in our blood. Adrenaline and vainglory.
Our foe was more swift and decisive than any that had met my blade before. Twas all I could do to keep on my feet. We fought on but were given no quarter. Each fell, injured or worse, our healers rushing to aid. There was only so much we could withstand. I recall taking several blows, but still trying. Whether out of stubborn pride or else, I attempted to fight on. Not willing for it to be in vain.
The taste of my blood was as vivid as the word on my friend’s mouth. Retreat. We were defeated.
One of the men we’d brought with us looked grim as we turned back.. As we discussed strategy, he gave his thoughts, quick to mention our failings. We were taken aback, and so he left. A few of us sent a call for another adventurer, but we had our doubts. Bitterness crept through us. Our hearts grew dark.
But then our bard cleared his throat. He began to sing a lively song. We all looked towards him. Despite what he had gone through, he insisted on keeping his grin.
At first, it had simply started with the bard, but soon others of us joined in. One of us began to parody the lyrics, and it caught on. My friend started to dance, and a few of the others joined. Our spirits were high, even though we had lost. After all, we still lived.
After much time, another decided to leave. With head hanging low, she dismissed herself. We knew, we understood. Though the first left us heartbroken, the second gave us strength. As we watched her, we had the resolve to make a decision. We would have to try alone. Deep in our heart of hearts, we knew we must try. Even if we lost again.
We walked into battle together. There was no bitterness. We tried, and though we failed, we were satisfied. Our hardship meant we could come back stronger. Though we separated, twas not with ill will. For we could have never left at all. We forged friendships through blood and steel. And as my friend and I made our way back home, we smiled.
For some, there is only winning. And I admit, it is nice. But those small moments make the journey worth continuing. Moments to bring a smile to a hero’s face.

(Noble barding)

Dearest Friend,

I can still recall the day we met a few years ago in near perfect detail. We were strangers. We had no mutual acquaintances. Yet, when we encountered one another I immediately felt drawn to a kindred spirit. We struck up a conversation, but not a single word was spoken. We use gesture after gesture to express our thoughts. At some points our actions were comical, others they were serious; but most importantly they were genuine and heartfelt. Though time has passed since our initial meeting, and we have since had many more conversations (some actually using spoken words) I still cherish the memory of our first meeting so fondly. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done to make me feel understood and accepted; though I am certain you would argue you had not done anything special.

Your Loving Lalafell Friend


*Desired Prize: Gaelicap*

Valeria staggered into the Quicksand and dropped into a seat at the bar. Her armor was dented, and she could smell the monster slime sticking to her breastplate. Momodi set a cup of ale in front of her before bustling off to help some other patrons.

Valeria took off her helmet and stared into the cup of ale. She had survived an encounter with the primal Ifrit and been recruited by the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. She should be able to handle anything without running back here like a novice. She flinched when she felt someone touch her hand. She looked up into Momodi’s ruby eyes. "You all right?"

Valeria took a shaky breath and began taking off her gauntlets. "Momodi.. I don't think I can do this job. Everyone in the party expects to know exactly where to go in a place I've never been. I’m supposed to rush in and stand strong while some horror pummels or poisons me. I can’t...” She stopped halfway through taking off the second gauntlet, face scrunched up and holding back tears.

“Sometimes, when the road gets hard, it helps to think back to why you started in the first place. Why did you become a gladiator?”

“I.. I don’t really know. When I first came into Ul’dah, I saw them recruiting outside the Coliseum and figured I could do it.”

“And you have done well for yourself. I’ve seen many adventurers try to be a gladiator. Quite a few come back here after an hour with so many cactuar spines they can’t sit down.”

Momodi patted Valeria’s hand. “Don’t doubt your skill, Valeria. You have the talent to defend Eorzea. But maybe it’s time to try a different road. Have you ever considered trainin’ for a different role? Y’say you don’t much like being front and center in combat. How about off to the side in a support role? There are guilds out there who would love to have a skilled adventurer train with them for a spell.”

“I’m allowed to do that?”

“Oh, yes. I’ve seen plenty of folks do it when they find that their first guild wasn’t the best fit. Maybe you have the skill for healing. Many folks the wild rose picks have some skill in that area. Even if you don’t have the talent, the conjurer’s guild in Gridania is a good place to go to take a break from the rough adventurin’ life.”

“Conjuring.” Valeria echoed, turning it over in her mind as she finished taking off her gauntlets. Healing others instead of waiting to be healed while she felt her life drain away. Taking a step back from the battle to see the battlefield. Valeria felt a spark of hope. She wasn’t a total failure. Maybe there was a better road. “Yeah, maybe I’ll give that a try. Thank you, Momodi.”

Momodi smiled, opening her arms wide. “That’s what I’m here for.”

[bluebird earring]

"Anyone who's free right now should head to the Free Company house. We're gonna have a meet and greet!" came a bright, cheery voice from my link pearl. It seemed like my comm had been rather active lately. Shrugging my shoulders, I decided that a small break from adventuring was in order. Closing my eyes and concentrating, I called upon the aether, asking it to teleport me back to the familiar house in the Lavender Beds.

A slight gasp, and I took a moment to catch my breath as my eyes opened upon the large building, the bright sunlight illuminating the welcoming yard. Only recently had I been coming here, the home of my Free Company, fleeting memories of many moons quietly hunting monsters and taking up quests flickering in my conscious thought. Quickly were they brushed away as I moved through the yard, and then entered the building.

Waiting in the main hall were several of my company-mates, the first being the one who had ordered the command of gathering, a silver-haired Miqote standing on the stairs, harp in hand. She wasn't playing at the time, but she always seemed at the ready. I glanced around at the familiar faces whom I'd grown accustomed to, including the flashy grin of my adopted sister, Velstralia.

'Wow. There's quite a few people here,' I thought to myself, as I noticed several new faces that I hadn't seen before. The Miqo'te, Yun, apparently had a way with people, for they'd recruited so many in such a short span of time. The empty, quiet Company I'd become used to was now thriving and busy.

"Any requests?!" Yun suddenly chimed, a gentle strum of the harp calling everyone's attention. It felt.....like I was right at home, as the voices chimed individually, and music began to fill the air. I took a seat on the floor and smiled to myself, simply enjoying the moment, and looking upon my company-mates. This, I thought, was what community was.

It didn't take long for our Elezen friend, Leon, to call for a slight change of scenery.

"Everyone, to the hot tub!" he cried out. The group clamoured, and I chuckled to myself as each person changed into their respective swimwear. We made a beeline for the upstairs room where a nice dip in the hot tub waited for us all. I couldn't help but smile as the joking and random banter continued on for what felt like hours. Though, of course, it was only a matter of time before everyone would go about their seperate ways.

For one such as I, who spends so much time alone, moving at my own pace, it's moments like these that truly bring everything together. Moments of feeling as my heart resonates with others. When times are tough, or when I'm feeling unwell, I'm reminded that there are others who are there with me, those I can support, and those I can count on to be there when I need them.

This is my community. These are my company-mates and my friends. This is my Final Fantasy.

(If chosen, I would like the Scarf of Wondrous Wit as my prize.)

Oki Malqir sat on the snowy ledge, just outside of Camp Dragonhead. She was huddled in her thick armor and robes, a glowing crystal giving off heat in front of her. This was one of the few times she took for herself. A shield, sporting a sigil of a red unicorn on a black field, sat propped in the snow next to her. Occasionally, she’d reach over and touch it, and smile.

She poured herself a warm drink, cupping her hands around it. After a sip, she quietly began to speak.

“Ah, my friend. I miss you.”

She brushed a hand through the snow, gathering her thoughts like snowflakes on her fur.

“I’ve been on a lot of adventures since you were last with me. I remember the last thing you told me. Smiling has been very hard, given all the heartache and pain I have witnessed since you left. I try, though. I try hard to find the good moments, the quiet when there aren’t demands on my time or on my person. Times when I’m not in immediate danger, or tracking down the next great evil, or running errands.

“I remember that it took a long time before the Scions saw me as something other than a tool - something to be used, repeatedly, until no longer needed. I wasn’t one of them. But you treated me as a friend. I wish you could have been with me in The Azim Steppe, when I helped battle for leadership with the tribes of Xaela, when we freed Doma from the Garlean Empire. I can imagine the look of triumph on your face, the feasting at Ala Mhigo. You would have loved being able to swim without holding your breath. You would especially have loved teasing Urianger and Alphinaud, as they doggy-paddled their way from shore to shore.

“I wonder if you knew how to swim.”

She sipped again and the steam worked to loosen the tears that had frozen on her face.

“I met the father of the Empire - an Ascian, if you can believe it. His name was Emet-Selch. He was an architect, a driving force for the empire’s conquering philosophy. But he was an Ascian.”

She shook her head. “I liked him. As odious as he was, I liked him. He had a purpose, drive. He didn’t just… decide to kill the worlds. He tried to live in them first. He made friends… made babies. He had lives, loved ones. He wasn’t just some maniacal fiend. He tried to find value in life that had taken away everything he had ever known.

“In the end, though, the choice was the recreation of a world long dead or the loss of everything and everyone. It was a loss none of us could countenance. He had to die.

“His last words, ‘Remember us.’ I thought my heart couldn’t get any heavier. But I shouldered Emet-Selch’s burden. I will remember him. I will remember his people, and why they died. I will remember their creations, their seemingly innocent nature.”

Oki heaved a heavy sigh, wiping tears from her face with the back of her glove. “I wonder, dear Haurchefant, if he would have found you worthier than he did the rest of us.”

(Bluebird earrings)

Birds of A Feather

My fondest memories of Final Fantasy XIV have undoubtedly been those I’ve shared with others. The cooperative nature of the game has allowed me to foster new friendships alongside invite my old gaming friends on adventures across Eorzea and beyond. If I had to choose one moment that stood out to me the most, however, it would be my experience during the Moogle Treasure Trove.

After taking a three year break from the game, I had the insanely poor luck of returning during the very tail end of the event. Barring that, I made the questionably wise decision (dragging my best friend along) to grind for irregular tombstones of philosophy until we could earn cool mounts⁠—a great way to scrub the rust off my weapons and leap back into the fray!

This would mean running Castrum Meridianum/The Praetorium a collective seventeen times in two days. Sure, it would have been way easier to score the mount the usual way through Extreme runs, but if Final Fantasy XIV has taught me anything it’s to appreciate the experience.. and also the EXP (also, I was still on base game and wouldn’t reach the content for some time, shh).

By the end of the grind we had memorized the dialogue to a T (dOn’T eVeN tHiNk AbOuT dYiNg, YoU’rE tOo BlOoDy UsEfUl) and had witnessed everything from a half naked Godbert Manderville look-alike (so really, just Godbert Manderville) to the spelling of C-I-D’s name in waymarks out of fantastical adoration by those equally blessed to remember the cutscenes line for line. It’s these little things that make me appreciate the community’s sense of humor.. and hey, we did earn our matching white lanners! I could think of no nobler steed (barring my loyal chocobo, Chocola, of course) to accompany me during Heavensward!

(Noble Barding for Chocola <3)

https://i.imgur.com/7qGkkaK.png
Click image for larger size!

To my dearest friend,

It has been much too long. I have just returned from a pilgrimage your House’s manservant had suggested I take. Before you begin teasing to how I am much too young to be enjoying such leisures, a woman by the name of Matoya had already chided me for such decisions.

Nonetheless, I write to voice my passions to you. To ever hold these memories close to my heart so that, when I am eventually returned to Hydalaeyn’s side, I am able to recount every detail of mine adventures to you beyond the Light. So pray forgive me for my musings, as I suspect you also wish of mine forgiveness that fateful day that you defended all that I was.

All that you saw that I could be.

If you allow me to speak plainly, I was frustrated. Why did you choose me to sacrifice yourself?

For days following, I wandered and dreaded the continuation of mine responsibilities. For the first time since offering myself - offering mine own name and who I was up to the Seventh Umbral Calamity - to bear the title of “adventurer” and, eventually, the "Warrior of Light", had I regretted my initial decision to embark on my journey of grandeur. For what was the point of attaining such noble titles if it were to be at the expense of those I loved?

It was when I had come to you to the place where we lay you to rest that I understood.

And what have you come to understand? You may ask, with that boyish laugh I remember you fondly for the day you renamed your- no, our encampment the Falling Snow.

I had come to understand the value of mine own life.

Long had I pitted myself against the face of death without much care, simply because it was a task only I can do. From the final stand at the Steps of Faith to standing at the opposite end of a Garlean prince’s blade to facing an Ascian with a mortal wound to the stomach in a world different from our own. Surely, I should have recognized it sooner. That which you had tried to help me realize before it was too late.

So, my friend, I tell you now: I do understand. And I thank you for keeping your promise, for standing with me at the end of the good fight when I felt it was barely enough. Thank you for being one that aided me in saving a dear friend’s life where I could do naught to save yours.

Please know, I will no longer take this life you had saved in vain. Your father, Lord Edmont, reminded me of it, as well - that wheresoever I go, your spirit is sure to follow.

However, it will give me utmost joy if you take your turn to rest, my friend. Rest and watch over me from the heavens, along with the Twelve. It will take me awhile to join you, but be patient, for I will have stories to recount once we meet again. Surely, those will take up the rest of our eternity.

For now, I will continue fighting the good fight. Along with those that believe in me the way you once did … and continue to do.

Your Friend,

The Warrior of Light

When you handed me that deed, when you told me that little house on the hill was mine, I should simply have been grateful. After all, it was such a small thing to you. What’s several handfuls of coins to someone who could buy the realm over if they so choose?

But instead I felt more than just simple gratitude. To me, this wasn’t charity, it was more. You gave me a home to call my own, a place to rest my head after a long day’s journey. You gave me the freedom to express myself in a space fit just for me. You, who always had my back when I needed it, gave me something that made me feel welcome. I had a home, and with it, I had a family who would always make me feel welcome within it.

I always could have worked hard, earned the coin myself. But then it would not have been the same. This was a gift from someone very dear to me, and if the gift had been a simple thing to you, just some coins tossed my way, then know that to me it meant more than I can express. You showed me that you wanted me to stay, you showed me that I was someone you wanted to stick around, and you made me feel like someone was happy to see me here.

At night, when all have gone their separate ways, and the setting sun takes with it our last goodbyes, I find myself pacing the grounds of my estate. I step into the parlor and I gaze upon the stern faces among the many paintings, and as I do, I find myself smiling as I know tomorrow will return to me your wondrous personage once again. So long as I have this home, I know I am truly never alone. For, to me, this home is more than just a place to stay warm and dry, it’s a beautiful reminder that I have a family here, one who treat me like I truly belong. One who are always happy to see me come the morning after.

They say that home is where the heart is, that anywhere can be your home with the right company, but when you gave me the deed to this place, when you told me that this little house on the hill would be mine, I don’t think anyone would have truly realized just how true to life that old saying would become. Because so long as I have you here with me, I know that my heart truly is in the right place.

So thank you, to the one who found me a place to call my own, the one who made me feel like I was truly home.

(Item Desired: Scarf of Wondrous Wit)

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...79e8da8aed.jpg

We all know the story of Shiva and Hrasvalgar, but there is another tale of love between dragon and man that very few people know.

Many years ago, a Dragoon came upon a fragile dragon egg in a far away land called Vana'Diel. Everyone she encountered said she should destroy this egg as it would bring nothing but destruction once hatched and grown, but in her heart the Dragoon had already bonded with the tiny life encased in that delicate shell. She kept it safe and warm until one day the baby with the dark eyes and blue scales tipped in yellow hatched. She decided to name him Himmelskralle, and from that day forward they never left each others side. They became inseparable, battling many a foe as they explored together. No matter how far they traveled from home they were never lonely because they always had each other. Time passed, and soon the Dragoon grew too old to fight. Thinking herself a burden to her friend she slipped away one starry night as Himmelskralle slept peacefully.

But sometimes even the Gods can take notice of an insignificant mortal and the bond she forged with a dragon. The Dragoon was re-born in a new land called Eorzea. As she grew up she trained with a lance and became an adventurer, all the while remembering her dragon. She earned the title the Azure Dragoon, and though she surpassed even that to become the Warrior of Light, her heart ached with loneliness for Himmelskralle. She traveled to Ishgard hoping her beloved friend would have been reborn as well. She searched everywhere from the frigid waters of Greytail Falls to the chocobo forests of the Dravanian Forelands but to no avail. It was then she met an unusual moogle named Mogzin who had dreams of rebuilding Bahrr Lehs. The Dragoon agreed to help. She was glad to be doing something other than fighting and she lost herself in her work. Before she knew it, they had begun to make real progress. The dirt was smoothed down flat, the heavy rocks removed. A stone wall began to take shape, and then a fountain. Eventually, the dragoon and the moogles completed the project.

It was then, standing back admiring a job well done that something twinkled out of the corner of her eye. Intrigued, she walked over and was stunned to discover a small wind-up dragonet being sold by a moogle. Lifting it carefully in trembling hands she saw the resemblance was uncanny. The black eyes shining. The blue scales tipped in yellow.

Legend has it, she still searches for her Himmelskralle. It is said that if ever in your own travels you meet the Azure Dragoon, you will see following behind her, her most prized possession. A simple toy in the shape of an old friend.

(Thank you for reading. If a winner, I would appreciate the Ahriman Choker prize)

Luna held far too many memories of Eorzea and could never decide on which ones were her favorites. But if she had a choice, she would have to say sitting out on the snowy lands of Coerthas, recalling her tales with her best friend.

Maybe this was her way of coping with the fact that he was gone. She was happy to have a hand in murdering the bastards that killed him.

"You should've seen it my friend! Lakeland was a vision in violet with the Crystal Tower in the backdrop. It was so beautiful and once we brought back the night and the stars twinkled across the sky was a sight to behold to the people, who hadn't seen the night in over 100 years."

"I couldn't imagine that, and I doubt you could either. Though here in Coerthas the nights are a little lighter from the snow. But not being able to see the stars? Watching the moon as it crosses the sky? That seems so crazy, but to these people it was a reality. And I'm glad I got to give them their night back."

She looked over at the shield that rested next to the stone and began to trace the unicorn along it, tears beginning to gather in her brown eyes. "I miss you Haurchefant. When G'raha Tia first contacted me to possibly reverse time and unwrite history, my first thought was selfish, to undo your death."

She sighed. "Forgive me my friend. I may be a hero, but I am still a woman, with wishes and desires, selfish as they may be. And my wish is to have one more moment with my best friend."

She feels a presence at her side, a pressure brushing away a tear that she didn't realize had fallen down her cheek. When she looked up, nobody was there.

She wiped at her eyes as she stood.

"Please be at peace, my dearest friend. I will be ever looking forward, and do so with a smile, as you request. For a smile best suits a hero."

Hmm.. Where shall I begin to tell my story. Oh I know! My fondest memories of Final Fantasy XIV takes me back to the days of ol' 1.0. A time where I first met Y'shtola as we traveled the Seas on the way to Limsa, getting attacked by all them Aurelia's and praying Leviathan didn't crush us as he jumped over our tiny little boat.
Travelling for days through Gridania's great forest while tip-toeing pass Lvl 99 Treants just to get to that aetheryte in the middle of nowhere.
The days when you got attacked by monsters while walking down the streets of Ul'dah or farming Mottled crystals from Atomos for massive piles of company seals.
Also let's not forget gathering with your friends as you watched Dalamud grow bigger and bigger as it got closer to us, ready to wipe us all out in an instant.

If picked, I would like the "Gaelicap" please

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...2ed454141a.png

Listen well traveler,

I remember when that damned moon fell over the flats of Carteneau. The scent of blood and smoke lingers in my nostrils. The helpless shouts of the dying ring in my ears still. The sight of that dread wyrm, true fury made manifest, bursting free from it's millennia old prison... that sight will never be far from my eyes.

Surely, I thought, that was the end. All that we had fought for would come to naught. The friends around me, the soldiers who battled so fiercely to protect their homes, perhaps all of Eorzea would be reduced to smoldering cinders. But thanks to a valiant few... it was the beginning of some something beyond any of our hopes. Their sacrifices gave rise to realms of light, and darkness, and adventure beyond measure.

Ask anyone who calls themselves an adventurer and they will recount a certain moment in their life that they carry close to their heart. It's something to spur them on and give them hope when times are hard. Instead, I say that you savor every moment. From your mightiest victory to your most ignoble defeat, wear them like badges, and look forward to the next. We cannot be sure which will be our last.

So, if it just so happens that you find yourself hesitating over a thick ledger in a busy bar in Ul'dah, remember what I've said here. Life is short. Be brave, scrawl your name, and adventure forth for as long as there are adventures to be had. Coin, glory, power, or something altogether different, it doesn't matter the reason you go. Just go. Perhaps you will find something you did not know you were searching for.

With hope,
A Weary Warrior

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...f5ea1b9aa7.png

[Thanks for reading.
Art: Mythpunk
Logo: Final Fantasy XIV, Square Enix
Prize Option: Scarf of Wondrous Wit]

“Where’s the Mailbox?”

It was another hot, dry day day in the cobbled streets of Ul'dah. The blazing sun casting a red-warmed hue onto citizens and visitors both, reminding them who the true master of this city was. General chatter could be heard from all directions; the exchange of coin, boisterous laughter, and the rhythmic beat of drums aiding the provocative steps of some street performers. In all, just another day in the Jewel of the Desert.

Be that as it may, however, it also provided a most difficult terrain to traverse for one newly come to the city, still dressed in the traditional garb of Roegadyn Adventurers, and having no clue as to the workings of such a large city. I wandered around for hours, taking in the sites, but keeping to my nervous self for fear of accidentally offending some devious lalafell. The adventurer's guild could only help me so much.

Don't get me wrong, Momodi was very helpful and succinct in telling me how I might gain employment, directing me even to a man who could help me better myself as a hand-to-hand fighter. A pugilist. She even directed me to the markets where I promptly bought some better gear then the basic drab I had come with.

But.

I needed to find a mailbox.

It was extremely important to me that I find one, or at least someone who could deliver mail, as I needed to tell you that I have arrived safely. I did by the way, arrive safely I mean.

Eventually I got over my initial anxiety in the city, and approached a fairly professional Dragon city at the Adventurer’s Guild bar called the Quicksand. His name was Playne Montae, and not only did he finally direct me towards a mailbox (A moogle actually, that is how they deliver mail here. Funny little creature), but he offered me a job and a place to stay in his Free Company as they call it here.

So be rest assured, my dearest little sister, my life of adventuring has begun smoothly. I look forward to when you can join me.

Sincerely,
Achteyri.

P.S. The moogle threatened to drop my letter in the ocean if I did not give him a Kupo Nut as payment. I tried to find something similar but if it fails then to whoever finds my letter please try to get it to my sister?

(If selected I would like to receive a Gaelicap please!)

As a fisherman, I find my strength in patience; without it, a steady cast and quality bait don’t mean much. There are other tricks to the trade, like perception, for it’s hard to catch high quality fish without it. I mostly fish to eat, but I try my best to use every part of what I catch. I’ve been known to turn sweetnewts into waterproof cotton cloth, which, with a bit of coeurl fur and thread, can be made into some stylin’ beach briefs.

Outside of food and materials, fishing is just an escape for me. It’s a chance to relax and step away from my responsibilities as the Warrior of Light. On one such break, I journeyed to the Azim Steppe for a fishing expedition. It was there that I met Suigetsu the Enlightened, who told me that he needed my skill as a fisherman in order to save his tribe. Imagine my surprise; a fish asking a fisherman for help? He didn’t need Fionn the Warrior of Light to fight off monsters or search for missing people; he wanted Fionn the Master Fisher to catch fish so that they could put on a festival.

For the past few weeks, I’ve caught a variety of fish at Suigetsu’s request. These have been used to create food and elixirs as well as to trade with others in the Azim Steppe. Slowly but surely, we have worked together, one fish at a time, to save the Seven-Hundred Seventy-Seven from total annihilation. My aid has led his tribe to dub me a bloodsworn ally, and they have given me my own Mikoshi and crew. Although I’ve met many people in my journey as the Warrior of Light, it is the Namazu that I treasure the most. Their squeaky steps and whiskers have weaseled their way into this fisherman’s heart. When I go back to being a Scholar, I’ll wear the Namazu Bell they gave me with pride.

(Thanks for reading! If I'm selected, may I please have a Gaelicap.)

The Future Unwritten

Tell me, do you remember our journey into the heart of the colossus? For one as experienced as yourself, it may have just been another day of saving the world. But for a new and bright-eyed adventurer such as myself, it was an experience I hold dear to this day. How could I forget the whirring of gears and roaring sounds of machinery buried far beneath our feet as we pressed forward against those who sought to undo our life's work and create a future not of freedom and light, but a future of fear and darkness in the shadow of their ambition.

I must admit, there were times that I doubted our success. Times that I believed my own shortcomings would bring about our failure. And yet, through it all, there was a drive in all of us. A drive to keep going. To keep improving. To know what would happen next. It mattered not what sort of machine the Illuminati fought us with as we all developed quite a talent for destroying their creations. Even as it looked like their fortress would break forth from its watery prison and usher in the future we fought so hard to prevent, even the great wings of Alexander could not block the light of hope that filled each of us with that drive to carry on. I still recall the moment of silence that followed our final fight as we laid the Father's soul to rest. Were we to be happy at our success, or relieved that it was over? Do you remember how as we all looked to you for guidance at this moment, you chose to meet our eyes with a small smile? Reminding us that though the fighting may be over, we still had a job to finish as you ushered us back into the control room.

I remember.

I'm sure that each of us has grown since then and undertaken many other wonderful and memorable adventures since that day, but this one still remains the dearest to me. Should such another creature arise and threaten our world once more, I hope that you will not hesitate to answer the call to action once more. I know I will, all thanks to you.

-Your Fellow Adventurer

(Thanks for reading. If selected, I would like Gaelicap please.)

"Greetings, friend. We may have crossed paths just once in a glistening azure Moon, or mayhap never. Look upon the words I'm about to inscribe in this parchment.

Back then in Ul'dah when I attempted to rescue a troubled girl's sister who had been kidnapped, I stumbled upon one of the fabled Crimson Duelists who had already managed to rescue her and had dealt with the malicious blokes. I was introduced to the realm of red magic, as I saw him gracefully weave the spells of both Amdapori and Mhachi origins, as well as the spruced techniques of both spell and sword. It was a fascinating sight to behold -- or at least when I was gazing in awe when I saw how aesthetic the man in red flawlessly cast off and slash his foes. He had introduced himself to me; his name I won't tell because he wishes to be anonymous, but the moment he offered me the knowledge of Red Magic, I was ecstatic.

Holding a degen with a floating shard on hand as my aetheric source and being able to create stances to cast various magicks and being able to fence was my true calling towards versatility. I became very passionate and dedicated for when the Crimson Duelist taught me about the balance, that I have to equalize the use of each aspected spell or skill -- whether White, Black or Red Magic, even the Sword forms. Such was the true strength of a Red Mage, for which I've become one with great pride. It is a great boon to not only to be able to inflict havoc on my foes but to also aid those in need of healing and assistance. After he had taught me everything I needed to learn from studying Red, he continued onward to where ever the horizon will take him and parted ways with me.

Two summers later and I have mastered his teachings, I wanted to see him again but alas, I'm on the other side of Hydaelyn. I wish to see my teacher again so that we can exchange stories and new techniques I've uncovered and to tell him how much I've wanted to deeply express the gratitude of practicing under his tutelage.

If you happen to see a silver-haired Miqo'te bloke with eyes likened to a clear blue sky and wears a dashing suit in Red, it's the one and only of whom I'm proud to call mentor and if you do see him, please take the opportunity to study red magic.

Sincerely,

A devoted Red Mage

(Post Scriptum:

If you happen to pick up this letter, and I mean you, please meet with Arya soon. I'm not your only disciple that has been worried sick about you after you left to find that relic.)


[If I get picked, please give me Noble Barding. Much appreciated] :)

“F-Fondest memory…?” Gyo was confused. He had been approached by the Wandering Minstrel that he had met on a number of occasions on his travels throughout Eorzea. The Au Ra thought long and hard on the question. All of his fondest memories were all relatively recent in his twenty-seven springs and summers of life. The wandering minstrel waited patiently for Gyo, as he knew just how skittish of an individual he was. The minstrel recalled that day when they met—how he offered a friendly hand to Gyo, and how the mere motion of that alone caused Gyo to dive behind the bar and cause some of the bottles to shake from all the trembling the Au Ra did. It took weeks before Gyo finally warmed up to him.

Gyo thought back to when everything began to change. He lost his vision while on his way to Ul’dah while fending off an attack from the Amalj’aa. He was already nervous around people, but losing his sight brought Gyo’s anxiety around people to extreme levels. His mind jumped all over the place, from fighting the primals, to playing in the forests with his animal family, to working with the various beast tribes that rejected the extreme zealotry wrought by their brethren. And then of course, there were the friends. Never did Gyo think he would have made as many friends as he did. Especially the Scions—

“M-Meeting Minfilia a-a-and the o-others!” Gyo responded abruptly, breaking the silence between himself and the minstrel.

“Oh?”

“Minfilia s-saw m-me f-for m-me,” Gyo shifted in his seat, “Sh-she n-never j-judged me. She m-m-made m-me f-feel…w-welcome.” The Raen smiled fondly at the memory. Even though he could see nothing, he could feel and hear the warmth she had in her voice. It was pleasant, void of something he was so used to hearing from people: judgement. For Gyo, it was unlike any other interaction with a person that he ever had. He expected Thancred to lead him into some kind of trap on that day. The two butted heads regularly when they first met—Gyo’s sensitive nose picked up so much perfume from the Hyur that it made him gag, while Thancred had difficulty adjusting to the Au Ra’s animalistic tendencies, and both had very different ways of tackling the same objective.

“So it sounds to me that your fondest memory is your beginnings with the Scions,” the minstrel observed. His lips curled into a smile as he rummaged through his bag for a pen and paper, “It warms my heart that you have not forgotten your beginnings, my friend.”

Gyo’s expression began to soften as he recalled the eventual fate of the Minfilia he knew. It was something that caused him to tear up, but he knew it was for the ultimate good. And after getting to know Ryne, he knew that, deep down, it was what Minfilia would have wanted too. He rubbed his eyes with the back of his hand, “Meeting Minfilia and the o-others i-is my fondest memory.” He said a second time, much more resolutely.

(Noble Barding)

https://i.imgur.com/rMxUDXk.png

I recount the days of basking in the sunset with my free company comrades,

on the beach of their grandiose estate that lay before them,

feeling the warmth of the sun and people retelling stories of their glorious adventures past and new,

watching various minions wandering around, glowing in the sun, casting long shadows where the sun did not reach,

as the amber sun reaches dips into the ocean in the distance, affecting the whole sky's color into a burst of orange. everyone was enjoying each other's company,

and we laughed and joked to no end. A bard was playing various tunes of lullaby both sad and cheerful, creating a friendly atmosphere before sun's vanishes out of sight…

Alas, those days are fewer than present, some friends are no longer with us...

but my adventures are far from over, everyday blooming with countless tales for the telling of friends

of the present and future alike. May the Sun never set on Eorzea and the tales never end.

- A fellow Warrior of Light

Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story ;)
If i were selected, I would love the Gaelicap! :o

‘Scree! Scree!’

The sudden crying from the Great Serpent of Ronka chronometer at the corner of the table smacked Narius awake. As her senses slowly reeled back to her body, she raised her head from some blueprints of the new Amaro-model housing and wiped away a patch of drool that had gotten on the corner of her lips and the edge of the paper.

With a simple stretch to remove the feeling of exhaustion from her body, Narius stood up from her seat and turned to head for the washroom. Before she took more than a few steps, her right foot collided with something immensely heavy. The pain was brief, though the annoyance that lingered in front of Narius’ foot sat still, as if mocking her negligence. A box filled with a number of familiar red-tinted scales. It was the same one she had thrown out two years ago, and how could Narius forget the emotion they imparted her with.

The emotion was one of frustration, never knowing what the true glow that emanated from the weapons imbued by the spirit of the Demon would look like.

Days turned into weeks, weeks turned into moons, and moons turned into years, but the one piece of news she hoped that would come in regards to these Zurvanite Carapace Fragments never came.

Instead, people moved on to craft the weapons of later primals. Even Suzaku-glow and Seiryu-glow weapons started to see the light of day before Zurvan-glow weapons.

Narius reached down to sift through the contents of the box, her initial notion to make a trip to the washroom on a brief hiatus. As her hands moved through the coarse fragments, each one glowed, making her heart jump.

This was a reaction she did not remember observing in the past.

Her first thought was that the fragments were draining her aether, but she didn’t notice any signs of weakness with prolonged exposure. Narius glanced at a broadsword that leaned against the table, a second idea crossing her mind. The craftswoman grabbed a fragment before approaching the weapon. A small bit of doubt made her unsure whether or not it would work, but she figured it was worth a try.

Hilt of the blade in one hand, Narius pressed the fragment of the Demon into the flat of the blade with the other. The reaction with the red reagent made her wonder why she had not thought to try this sooner. It was as if the fragment was devouring the blade, coating it with sharp crackles of fiery red and bitter cold blue that made the blade seem dull in comparison.

Surprised, Narius could only force a few chuckles as if she had forgotten that she was a veteran crafter. It took a moment for the joy and euphoria to settle into her addled mind so that she could fully display those emotions, by immediately sprinting out of her room, the sword of fire and ice in hand.

“Linnea!! Jayden!! I finally did it!! After all these years, I made a Zurvan-glow weapon!!” Narius ran through the hallway and up the stairs two steps at a time, fueled by sheer joy.

(Prize: Gaelicap)

To the adventurer that doubts,

Blood, chains and Steel came clashing as the Serpeant reared back and struck once more only to meet the enticing grip of my axe. My hands tightened around the grip, and my eyes met the savage blue eyes of the serpent. I could feel it's sickly aether weaving its way down my weapon. For the first time I could feel myself slipping into siren's call of the beast. This monster was strong- too strong.

In ice and fire I started to hear screaming. The maiming of the adventurers that had come with me- one after the other they began to fall- They had trusted me to protect them, and I could hardly even look at them- so preoccupied with keeping myself alive. The monster was too fearsome and wild.

Lightning struck and amid the deafening booms I saw the the serpent rearing back. I shifted backwards into a defensive stance, but it wasn't enough. The entire force of the monster crashed into me- I floated in the air for a moment before crashing onto the frigid ground below.

In the blurred euphoria of death the screams slowly began to drown out. I could feel the gentle splash of another world washing over me; I was in Gridania- Apkallu falls. A Roegadyn- hellsguard at that approached me. He was dressed in decedant robes. A little to fanciful for my tastes, and lets be honest for a hellsguard at that. He reached his hand out to me, and it took a moment for me to realize- I had seen him before. He was one of the adventurers that had followed me into the bloodbath. The stalwart aether I had felt pushing back against the serpents sickly aura. I reached out my hand, and gripped his firmly.

My body heaved upward, and not a moment too soon, because with a scream the paladin's body came flying past mine- the same attack that had felled me. The serpent was interlocked in a battle of stone, light and wind. The only one still standing on the battlefield was the Hellsguard; orbs of aether drifted down around us as he expelled all of his energy to slay the beast. The serpent began to rear back amid the onslaught- the same attack that had felled the paladin and I.

My body reacted; Surging towards the Serpent. With a click my thumb undid the clasp holding my chains in place. In a violent roar I launched both of the chains towards the beast. I watched their bladed ends fly through the air, "Make it", I thought.

The chains immedietly went taught; my arms tightened twisting them around my forearms as I dug into the dirt. The Serpents momentum was thrown off- flailing all over on the ground. In a final eruption of stone and light the Hellsguard blasted a spear upwards. Piercing through the restrained Serpents head. The Serpent went limp. The drifting aether gently began to dissolve among the ground; vines stretching up the chains grasped around the Serpent. Purifying the last of its aether.

Lean on those around you. Do the impossible- adventurer

Noble

A lone arrow cracked against the wind, sailing through the quiet till it struck the diremite square in the eyes.

"Another one bites the dust!"

Gravien smirked. He was beginning to get a hang of it. Straighter shots were tricky, but occasionally he'd get it right between nocks.

This was another beautiful day in the Shroud. Peaceful yet bustling with energy. Eorzea was on the brink of something new and Gravien was one of many stumbling ahead.

It was a time for adventurers, and Gravien was eager to explore. Lately he'd been gathering confidence by dipping arrows in venom and aiming for arteries.

"Steady...every adventure begins with a step."

It seemed like forever since he first entered the emerald forest. A fledgling novice, there were struggles deciding on what to do and even hitting marked targets a week ago.

But now there was something special in the air. A certain momentum. Many had been traipsing by helping the odd fellow here and there. But in the horizon, there were murmurs of curses, ancient ruins...and even the undead!

From tales of Ul'dah splendors to the seaside brilliance of La Noscea, many had a story to share about what lay ahead. The world seemed so big to Gravien, and there was a hunger for more. Friends from Thanalan had sent word of escapades in the local mines. Others stopped by through airship to promote their new feathered friends.

But alas each adventure has a pace of its own. For now the focus of the day was improving marksmanship. After all, his colleagues back at the guild had much to say about recent developments.

Soon it would be another day, and Gravien would have to retire yet again to the inn before starting anew. What boundless journeys were to come? What name would he make for himself? In Eorzea, the possibilities were endless.

~

Light pierced through the echoing darkness. Gravien stirred back to his senses. How long had it been since he started this voyage? His eyes opened slowly as if shaken from a deep slumber. These forlorn feelings from times long past. Was it all a dream?

More lights coalesced and flashed by in the cold quiet. Through them came the memories. Of the beginning. Of purpose and perspective. Of loss.

Gravien steeled himself. Motivation is a funny thing. Back where it all began, it rose from the heart. From passion and wanting to see more in a new world. Through all the highs and lows over the ages, it all came back and together in preparation for what lay ahead.

And ahead it was. The blinding truth of consequences and of the unknown. Of earth.

Earth?! Land! Gravien abruptly awoke. The ground had a hardy yet sterile smell. Dusting himself off from the drowsiness, the memories of today came flooding back. It was time to settle this. Even amidst all the turmoil and change, one thing hadn't faltered and he kept it to heart.

Gravien took a deep breath and strode forward.

Every adventure begins with a step.




(Noble Barding)

The sun set on yet another average Saturday. Lights started to get shut off as early risers headed to bed in preparation for the next day and all it would bring.
In all but one house, that is.
Inside, beyond the veil of curtains, a young woman sat on the edge of her seat, figuratively, with her controller in hand and headphones askew.
The final battle of Heavensward was all that remained between her and the end to the current arc of the story she had spent many an hour embroiled in. Her game companion’s voices echoed in her ears from her mostly forgotten headphones. Her heart pounded in her chest. Her hands trembled minutely with excitement on the small device in her fists that allowed her to interact with the virtual world.
She could not believe that she was here. She had never been a gamer but a simple promise to a friend to ‘give it a shot’ had lead to this. A promise made with the absolute knowledge that after a few hours she would be back to her regularly scheduled programming. And yet…
It had lead her to this moment, ready to do battle against the forces of darkness in a way that her beloved books simply could not allow her to do.
Fingers poised for the dropping of the protective blue barrier, she waited with baited breath.
She was prepared when it came down, charging into the fray, battle cry on her lips, and sleepy cat eyes fixed on her face in confussion.
How would this part of the story end? How much of a cliffhanger would she be left with to theorize about and agonize over while waiting for the next part of the game?
Ruthlessly, and yet at the same time excitedly, she forced those thoughts aside; she needed to focus on the here and now if she wanted to survive to see the answers to such questions.
Her former streams of internalized thoughts flooded from her lips to manifest audibly. She didn’t notice. She quivered in her seat at the build up of adrenaline.
84%, 60%, 43%, 22%, 10%. They’ve almost got him. They could do this. She could do this.
5%. Her HP started to dip.
4%. Her healer brought her back up.
3%. Her fingers cramped but she didn’t stop.
2%. Almost there.
1%. She could taste victory.
0%. He toppled! Success!
A cheer burbled up from her throat. Her hands went up in triumph. She almost came out of her seat in her elation. Her companions laughed their congratulations.
The thumping in her heart slowed and she settled in to watch the fruits of her labors, to learn the answers to her questions. She grinned the whole way through the cutscenes, her heart and mind on cloud nine.
The final line of dialogue had been delivered, the last note reverberated through her speakers and she had been content; at peace in a way that she had never been before. All because of a game that she had given a chance only half-heartedly. A chance that she had not regretted. She had made friends, defeated enemies, and her life would never be the same again.

Hymn Of Love

In the driest and hottest time of the year, I decided to take a visit to the jewel of the dessert; Quick Sand. From there i came across a tall, tanned, Xaela Au Ra being entertained by various women. All hoping to win your praise through dancing on your lap and kissing your cheek. I thought of nothing and quickly retreated to my room until our eyes met. You possessed beautiful silver eyes that captivated me with a simple sentence. “Be my girl.” I was astonished as I knew you were nothing but a dangerous stranger talking to a fellow Au Ra. Were you interested in me because I was from the Orl tribe? Or did I somehow invoke your desires with my scarlet hair and sapphire eyes? I nodded my head and smiled. I did not know what the moment had meant to be until I decided to make my mistake. You spoiled me through gems and treasures. You erased the loneliness that consumed my heart. I wasn’t expecting much until it was too late. There you took me to the flowers of Il Mheg, the Lucius pink petals that danced between us as you kneeled down before me asking for my hand in marriage. As tears streamed down my cheeks I rushed in and nodded with a smile.
Quickly after your loyalty to this Au Ra faded after you had met a beautiful Viera named Nova. I was crushed and torn to pieces. If it weren’t for you I would not have met my cherished friend.
https://i.imgur.com/xoACjTD.png
I quickly ran to Goblin seeing my favorite Miqote. I embraced him in tears as he asked what was the matter? At the moment, as painful as this memory was, I had learned much about myself and what Eorzea meant to me. It was a place where I could make mistakes and go adventuring with friends. An enriched culture to where I can dance as I throw my chakrams to my enemies.
There I place my home at Shirogane learning from my mistake and to ensure that my heart would not turn to glass. I will stand by my friend whom I hope will stand by me for as long as I breathe. At first I could not get you out of my mind but now I realize you were nothing but a con man. My true friends who worried for me, cried with me, fought with me, and stay with me are my true treasures.
For that I am grateful to have met them after the injuries I had received from you.
I woke up the next day and saw you waiting for me to return to your arms. I shook my head no and smiled.

“You never loved me, however, thank you for teaching me the most important lesson”.
Love is expressed through many ways that fills our hearts with joy. As lonely and grim my world gets I know I am in good hands. I returned the ring to him and said goodbye. I walked away with my favorite miqote as I heard you shout my name. I have not once looked back or searched for you. This place is my safe haven and I will fight for it.
https://i.imgur.com/GYfB44c.png
“Maybe it’s time for me to rest my weary heart.. Maybe someday I will find happiness”.
(Chosen reward: Bluebird Earrings)

To one just beginning their adventure,

How long have you been on your journey? Months? Weeks? Merely days? Even after all these years, I still remember when I was in much the same position as you.

I recall the day when I first stepped into Gridania, not knowing a single thing about the world around me. So many unfamiliar faces, little did I know that they'd soon become familiar friends and acquaintances, all happy to support my endeavors across Eorzea. From Mother Miounne in the Carline Canopy to master Lyngsath in Limsa's Bismarck, I've been happy to help them all, and lucky to receive their support myself.

Of course, I never would have made it to where I am without the help of other adventurers. Whether friends who came with me to Eorzea from other lands, or new allies met on my travels, or simply strangers trying to solve the same problems as I was, every adventure was only possible because of them, and every day I'm thankful I had that help. No matter how tough, no matter how frightening, and no matter how impossible the odds seemed, there were always those willing to lend their aid, and working together we could accomplish anything.

That's why I write this letter, hoping it comes into the hands of someone who needs its message. Whenever you are lost, whenever you have no idea what to do, whenever you feel like you'll never finish your journey, remember them, your allies across the world. Remember us, your fellow adventurers, trying to save everyone. Remember me, your friendly local Lalafell, always willing to lend a hand. We're all here to help you, just like so many strangers helped us so long ago, and so many strangers will continue to help us as time keeps moving on.

Wishing you the best on your quest,
Miriam Webster

(Prize: Gaelicap)

Despite his reputation, Horikare Shadowborne, called the Warrior of Light and the Warrior of Darkness, wasn’t a brave Miqo’te. He did what he had to because the utter fear in his heart when he faced down the monsters and gods, giant machines and whole armies, was better than the shame of not facing them and allowing innocent people to die, or worse, be tempered into mindless slaves.

He grew angry and frustrated, sometimes, when people asked him to put himself in harm’s way. Or assumed that he would go out and blithely face death for them. Still, it never occurred to him not to help. It wouldn’t be right.

That didn’t mean he was brave. At least, until today.

Rika glanced over his shoulder. To one side stood Mari, a Lalafell healer as skilled as she was adorable, her presence calm and focussed, supporting the group with her good sense as well as her spells. Before him, Kattey with her massive sword over one shoulder, as tall as her slender Au Ra frame, eyes bright with anticipation. Fearless and funny, keeping their spirits high.

And beside him… He reached out and twined clawed fingers with his husband, Davien. The tall, graceful Miqo’te gave him a warm smile, squeezing his hand gently. Dark haired, blue eyed, strong and determined, as handsome as he was deadly with the twin blades at his hips.

This time, Rika didn’t have to face the unknown on his own. For the first time his stomach fluttered with anticipation, not fear. Taking a deep breath, he gripped his rapier with his free hand and nodded, head high as they stepped together through the doorway to face the unknown.

For those that they had lost. For those that they could still save.

(Dedicated to everyone in my Free Company. Thank you for reading. I would like the barding if I am chosen.)

It started with awe.

Flying around on my black chocobo, I was mesmerized when I saw you riding a glowing winged horse, magnificently flying by. At that moment, a great yearning grew within me and I had a new purpose -- I need to get that glowing mount!

Hoping that it is obtainable in-game, I asked fellow adventurers, and with ease, I found out that the mount was called Kirin.

Though getting it would prove to be a challenge. For in order to get the majestic Kirin, I would need to acquire six horses from six different primals. What made matters more challenging was I would have to fight them at their strongest, defeat them, and then pray to the god of luck that I obtain a whistle if and when it drops.

At first I battled them alone, but the task was too tough. I eventually looked for like-minded adventurers and together we endeavored to beat the primals, with the promise that each and every one will have their own steed.

It took days, but we eventually triumphed. I know that we had big grins on our faces when we went on top of Rathefrost cliffs, and there we each called on our very own Kirin.

And then we did birds…

And then we did wolves…

And now we try for dragons!

So, to you who inspired me to take this on, I will forever be grateful. And I am hoping that I will see you once again and we can ride with our radiant companions.

Cheering you on,

Tamer of Steeds
Tamer of the Undying Flame
Kyubi Tamer

(Prize Selected: Gaelicap)

Was it yesterday last I basked in the warm glow of the hearth in our Shirogane home? A week perhaps? Two? I'd lost track. Surely it couldn't have been that long...

I let my eyelids shut to collect my thoughts.

I'd fought this foe a hundred times at least. Each time a mortal blow I'd strike, each time they'd rise again. A forever struggle.

Maybe I'd always been here.

I open my eyes.

A waft of salty sea air passes as I survey the battlefield. Our fledgling conjurer Y'shtola charges forward, her snow white braids whipping in the wind, cat ears pinned back as she jumps headlong toward the enemy commander; Merlwyb, a towering woman dressed all in black. They clash, my feline friend sent reeling by her attack, but I look past them to the leather-clad gunslinger, Hilda, who'd flanked behind. Her pistol thunders, her aim ever true as the commander slumps to the floor.

We've only a second to regroup before the opponent is back on the offensive. From the shadows a hulking Roegadyn leaps toward Hilda, the steely visage of the legendary pirate king Mistbeard adorning his helmet. But, no sooner had the pirate appeared then came a flash from above as the bristling dragoon, Estinien, fell upon him like a bolt from the black night sky, sending him sliding back into the darkness. We nod to each other and turn toward the remaining skirmish.

On the other edge of the arena a figure in a sea captain's tricorne, Rhoswen, pistol in hand, sends a volley of shot towards the dragoon. Her other hand wields a cutlass fencing with a chainmailed Vieran knight, Lyna. Their slight frames are both dwarfed by the titanic primal Leviathan looming over their battle, toothy maw agape, ready to devour the victor.

I know I, the Warrior of Light, will decide this contest. This selfsame scenario has played countless times before. I help up an out of breath Y'shtola, her magicks spent but spirits still high. I step forward, shoulder to shoulder with Estinien, busy brushing off flecks of shot which had grazed his armor. We take just a moment and turn to meet the giant sea snake Leviathan in final combat. We've done this so many times, it's reflex now...

I let my eyelids shut to collect my thoughts.

Maybe this will finally be it? No. I shouldn't get my hopes up.

I open my eyes.

8 to 2, another victory. O'kalkaya's familiar face stares back at me, ever cheerful. I wait for her to pass over our wager. 68 Manderville Gold Saucer Points, same as always.

Hmm... but what's this?

She's passed a card along with the coins. This one feels different. The stock thicker, the edges sturdier, the corners rounder, the faces smoother, the smell richer. Could it be? I slowly turn it over... 1... 2... 3,4,5 stars!

YES! This is it! My never-ending battle has finally come to an end.

I place the pristine Merlwyb Bloefhiswyn Triple Triad card into my deck, and give O'kalkaya a bow as an uncharacteristic smile sneaks onto my normally stoic face.

(Gaelicap)

It’s been a long, winding road since I first returned to the Black Shroud of Gridania and enlisted in the Order of the Twin Adders. So much has happened. So many trials faced, friends made, enemies vanquished, allies lost. The good and the bad…

I’ve often been asked to reflect upon my life, and then select one moment, one memory as the greatest of them. To then regail my audience with such a tale of bravery and glory that would captivate even the most talented of bards and wisest of historians. Yet, when I am put on the spot as such, I instead find myself at a loss for words. How can I look back at the long tapestry of my history and pluck free a single thread to hold up as the grandest of them all?

I could share a more personal anecdote perhaps. About how I met someone, another wandering soul of Eorzea who wished for companionship on their journey. Someone whose smile never failed to lift my heart, whose humorous antics brought me to tears of laughter over and over again. Someone in whom I found a kind love I had believed beyond my reach. Someone who I have chosen to intertwine my tale with forever onwards. I could tell you about him, yes.

But even then, I am overcome with so many moments, so many meetings, and adventures, and conversations, that I again fail to single one out among the others as my most precious.

From felling the first primal I ever encountered -- the blazing embodiment of fire, Ifrit -- alongside fellow adventurers who would eventually become my dearest, trusted friends; to traversing the rift of space and time itself to aid a world on the brink of being consumed by eternal light, every step has been important to me.

Every step has changed me, forged me into this person that I am today. This Warrior of Light.

There are still pages left unwritten however. I have many more steps I intend to take before I find my rest. Many more journeysI wish to share with those dearest to me. Many new faces to meet and exotic locations to visit.

We are each writing our own tales. And if there is one thing I could ever hope to fully impart upon another Eorzean who, too, yearns for adventure, it is that your story is just as important as mine. It is just as beautiful, just as breathtaking, and just as worth telling. Your triumphs and your tragedies, each and every moment. So tell it, please.

The pen is yours.

With warmest wishes,

Another Grateful Storyteller



(Thank you for reading my submission. If selected, I would like the Bluebird Earring as my selected prize.)

To those I leave behind

To my dearest beloved Astrid,

I pray to the twelve that this letter never reaches you, that I might hold you in my arms again and feel your warming embrace. That I would see my son's face for the first time, I would give all that I have and more. Alas I will not withhold any truths from you. Come the dawn I will be heading to the front lines.

Despite our victory over Castrum Novum and even with the Warrior of Lights help, we were unable to stop the Garlean Empire's plans. You may see it in the sky even now, as it looms overhead, the red moon. Archon Louisoix has devised a plan, and we are to engage the enemy on the fields of Carteneau whilst he prepares.

The alliance between nations has held strong. Those we once thought petty, or weak, or dishonorable have become my brothers and sisters in arms. I tell you now, there are no differences between us, and I have wept for those lost on the battlefield.

However, despite my loss and sorrow, I fight on. Not for Eorzea, not for my country, not even for the Warrior of Light, I fight for you and our son. That one day we will be reunited, that I might hear my son's cries, and that I might hear your gentle whispers before I lay to rest for the eve, I fight on.

I pray that both of you are safe, that the cries of war do not reach your ears. I pray you never have to witness the horror that has been created by the Empire, that this is just some unseemly nightmare we have yet to wake from.

Know that I am with you, and though we may not see one another again, that I love you with all of my heart. If I do not return to you, I ask that you live on. To not close your heart off to others, and possibly love once more as you have loved me.

To my son, I hope you grow to be kind and strong. To listen to your mother even when you may not want to. To know that are you loved, always. Remember to ask your mother about me, the good and the bad, for there is no man without faults, and that we learn and grow from our mistakes. Know that I am no hero, and tales of grandeur ill suit me, but I would go to the great beyond and back for you and your mother.

The dawn draws ever too quickly. There is more I wish to say, and hopes that I will be able to say it once we meet again.

Yours, forever and always,
Alden Rivers

(Noble Barding)

Kari,

I had no idea what I was doing when we met (I literally had you going in circles. I'm so glad Aedan picked us up that day, even if he isn't.)

Can I say thank you? Without you, I would not be here, fighting my own Primals and EX Trials. There were so many detractors and so many people who said that we couldn't do it. And instead of looking at what we couldn't do, you just... Did it. No complaints, no anger, some frustration, and a lot of joyful tears. First with Shinryu EX.

Again with Suzaku EX.

And then we took on the Baldesion Arsenal with so many others and defeated Proto Ozma (the first in your Free Company at the time to do so).

You have changed my outlook on so many things. I know now that life doesn't have to be perfect and I don't have to be perfect to make others happy. You have been such a wonderful moral compass to influence me, my family, and countless others.

Please do not ever stop being the strong, independent, charismatic Au Ra that has defeated so many fierce forces in the past. When life gets you down, remember to "take one more step."

Love always,

Kari ~Purveyor of Hats~ Morganos.

(Bluebird Earrings)

Four summers ago, I innocently began my journey as an adventurer. I thought perhaps the strange lands of Eorzea would sate my hunger for new lands and experiences, but I failed to understand the depth of the world I had stepped into. I underestimated the value of the world I would soon come to save.

Not long after my journey began, I attended the annual seasonal event of Eorzea known as The Rising. There, I saved the world yet again from some impending doom or other. Afterwards, I met the renowned Wandering Minstrel of no small repute. As he regaled my recent adventure with his harp in hand, I felt my mind drawn to a different place altogether.

There, I met a man and his companions who had toiled endlessly to create the world I stood only moments ago. Naoki Yoshida welcomed me to the infamous Eighteenth Floor where he and many others were proud to greet the vaunted hero of Eorzea. I remember a great deal of it so vividly. The artworks plastered along a wooden board, Soken next to a piano, Koji-Fox with his strange Moogle attire, Hiroshi Takai riding the Nightmare mount in such a strange position, Toshio Murouchi excitedly preparing for the next Fan Festival, and many others hard at work in their environments. Yoshida and his companions showered me with accolades one after the other, but soon, a feeling of uncertainty began to overtake me.

I had only just begun my journey. Sure, I had saved Eorzea from the great threat of the Ultima Weapon and Garlemald’s XIVth Legion, but did I deserve the honors and applause from these great people? I’d heard tales of warriors battling their way through the Dragonsong War as I still trudged along slowly absorbing the myriad wonders that Eorzea had to offer. Truly, was I worthy of such praise?

And so, for the many moons that followed, I strove to become the hero they believed me to be. Through many adventures and trials, I have grown stronger and truer to the cause. What was once a world has now expanded into a universe. I have fought through the struggles of betrayal, the thousand-year war between dragon and man, the liberation of homes and countries ripped away from those of faraway lands, and now, even to bring a world on the brink of destruction back to its feet.

I hope that, perhaps one day, I might tell them these things myself. For now, I leave this letter scattered to the winds in hopes it might one day reach all of you. Know that you have created a world, a universe even, worth saving, and I will continue to do so for as long as I am able. There is much and more I wish to say, but perhaps that will come another day.

Though I may yet call myself a Warrior of Darkness, in my heart I feel there is another name that more appropriately captures what I wish to be.

- A humble, but proud Player of Final Fantasy XIV


[Winner Prize Selection: Bluebird Earring]

Our Beginning

Good girl. You are nothing without me, you are dust beneath my boots and if not for this cage you wouldn't even be worthy to die against me. You will show me respect or I will crush you like the worm you are.

You will kill all those that I order you to, you will not cry about silly bonds or emotions, you will not hesitate out of some misguided feelings of love or loyalty. You belong to me alone and you'll obey my command.

You are my creature child, my wretch. The secrets I deign to put in your head will never be spoken to another living soul. Swear it!

Your troubles do not concern me. You're weak and you'll have to be stronger than this pathetic show you give me now if you hope to survive. Find your own teachers for your other silly fighting arts, maybe then you'll have a better use. I will teach you one thing and one thing alone of MY arts.

We will break this seal wide open. Somehow, someway, we'll unravel it and you'll do everything you're capable of to assist me in that.

- Name is illegible

https://imgur.com/kvRNSYm

[Prize: Gaelicap]

To you, the adventurer,

I remember the first time I visited Hemlock. By then, there was precious little left save for three houses, a stable, and a few fences half-buried in the snow. It's a common sight. People come and go in the wake of a calamity. Houses, towns, memories, lives - we leave them behind in our never-ending search for a brighter tomorrow.

Yet for all that I have seen - the lives lost, the loves gained, and above all else, the betrayal - I still cannot forget Hemlock. The three houses, the stables, and the fences, all nestled in the heart of the Western Highlands, lifeless but intact.

Its people must have been happy. The town was so small. They must have all been close to each other. I could see the men and women working in the forest, cutting and tying down trees day after day to make their living. It must have been difficult, yet I have no doubt that they did not mind it in the company of their friends, for a struggle in unity is less a struggle and more an endeavor. I could see the children, blissfully ignorant of their parents' toil as they played amongst their friends - friends that they had no doubt known since their youngest years and would have known until their oldest had the chill not come.

One of the houses must have had an alehouse. The men and women must have spent many hours there, confessing their pains, frustrations, hopes, dreams, fears. They must have loved and loathed their lives, so far removed from the walls of the city, yet so close to the idyllicism they must have craved. The children must have tried to sneak in so, so many times, their curiosity boundless as a child's tends to be, thirsty for the knowledge of the world - knowledge that would inevitably have made its way to them had the chill not come.

I'm sure they must have had their fair share of town gatherings and festivals, as well, filled with the food, song, and dance that the generations had grown up with. I'm sure they worked proudly and tirelessly to hang decorations and signs on the tops of the now-buried fences so all knew that, if only for a day, it was time to let go of their worries. I'm sure they felt a heavy melancholy when it came time to take these decorations down, knowing that another day of work awaited them the next morning. I’m sure the years would have continued to pass in their quiet way had the chill not come.

How quickly it must have ended. How terrible it must have been to leave it behind. How heartbreaking it must have been to move on. The lives lost, the loves gained, the betrayals, the forgiveness, the acceptance, the pure happiness of it all...

They were us. I could see it all in that moment, looking down at the snow-covered square as I sat atop one of the houses, and I knew I could never forget. We must never forget.

Yours truly,
Nate

[I'd like a Gaelicap if I win, please.]

Map night with the FC...

As the last monster fell to the ground, one of our group went over to the treasure chest and kicked it open. As the lid rattled open and the smoke filled portal opened above it, we all cheered in unison! Entering through the portal we found ourselves on a platform divided into twelve sections.
“Alright, so now we just press...this!” one of my comrades said, touching his hand to a sphere in the center of the platform. The sphere lit up, and a light began to spin round and round the platform. We waited, tensed with anticipation. Finally, the light stopped around a symbol of three diamonds and a monster erupted from a sudden portal in the center. The fight was intense but we managed to prevail. Again and again we touched the sphere, and the light continued spinning. There was one tense moment as four of the symbols around our platform bore the visage of Atomos, which we knew would blow us out of the dungeon! Once more the light spun, and as it slowed it approached the very symbol we feared. Then the light stopped. Hope began to wither in my chest, and my face fell. Until it moved one last time...onto the symbol for an Elder Summon! Our final one! Mandragoras spawned from one of the portals, and an FC member called out which order to kill them in. With his guidance, we made quick work of them and at last, a chest appeared in the center of the platform. The materials within would fetch a great amount of gil! No amount of gil, however, would exceed the value of this night spent with friends. Even if I hadn’t gotten anything, just this would have been enough.

Noble Barding Please.

As the time drew nearer, the pounding of my heart only grew greater still. To either side of me, fellow comrades in arms, and before us, a horrid nightmare of past lives. My knuckles grew white as I gripped my bow all the tighter, swallowing down as much fear as I could. We had been preparing for this day, for this moment. Everything would amount to this. How far would we go? Could we even do it? No… We had to. It was our duty to. Steeling myself, I cast one last glance to my companions. The newcomers were trembling, putting on a brave face, while the veterans stood at the ready, weapons drawn, gleams in their eyes. As scared as I was, I followed their example, looking ahead at the horror. In a moment, all was still. The next, the battle began.

From then forward, everything was a whirlwind of motion, blurring my vision as I struggled to keep up. The heat around us was horrid, the waves to follow threatening to swallow us whole. Our legs wobbled beneath us as the very earth threatened to kill us, the ravaging winds threatening to tear us apart at the seams. I watched as my comrades went flying through the air, saved only by our most skilled mages. I watched our warrior stand their ground, axe raised as a giant fist came slamming down into them, nearly knocking them to the side. All the while, I let arrows fly, barely hearing them whiz through the air in the midst of the Chaos. My arms turned to jelly, scarcely able to draw the bowstring. I was terrified beyond any doubt of the imagination. And yet, at the same time, my heart raced harder, blood coursing through me. It was a feeling unlike any other, my body moving on its own. Every step could have been my last, every breath nearly stolen from me. I had never felt so alive.

An eternity had passed, time far out of our grasps. We didn’t know if it had been days, months, or if it had only been an hour. Nonetheless, we fought till, finally, the great nightmare lowered his chin. In an act of desperation, I watched as our monk dashed forward, fists clenched like vice grips. In one hand, light began to flood, bathing them in its warmth. It grew bright by the second, searing white-hot. In an instant, before my very eyes, the monk vanished. A moment later, a blinding, all-consuming light erupted from the nightmare, a chilling shriek screaming out from it. As the light began to fade, the horror disappeared into nothing. I looked around, fearful that it was just a trick. As I looked towards my companions, however, I saw that a trick was the furthest thing from the truth.

Smiles of triumph adorned their faces, their fists raised high in the air. A battle cry rang true, congratulations were dished out in earnest. I found myself falling back, sprawling out on the ground, tired as could be. I could barely believe it. Never would I have guessed that we could have gotten so far. And yet, there we were: We had banished the Chaos. We had won.

(I would like the Scarf of Wondrous Wit please~)

"Hear...feel...think..."

How long has it been since those very words drove me from my aimless wanderings to the great deserts of Ul'dah, the evergreen forests of Gridania, the swashbuckling streets of Limsa Lominsa, the snow cloaked peaks of Ishgard and beyond? At times it seems like only yesterday that I started this journey, even though so many years have passed.

http://www.ffxivinfo.com/images/maps2/l/eorzea-1.jpg

They say that it is because of my strength that the realm has the salve it needs to heal, but if it were not for all those who stood beside me, I would never have persevered. Without the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, I would never have known of the power of the Echo and conquered the Primals that plagued the realm. If it was not for the aid of the Grand Companies and Cid, I would have never been able to destroy the Ultima Weapon. However, if it were not for all those I lost, I would never have stood my ground against the Dragonsong War and Storm.

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...f85d7dd3cf.png

This journey has been a hard one.

And now another beckons me to where you rest. Even though so much time has passed since that day I still remember our adventures within the Crystal Tower.

I can still see the crystalized throne upon Syrcus Towers top. The expansive World of Darkness that seemed to have no end, just like its dark mistress the Cloud. I wonder if Doga and Uni are still in epic blows with that monstrosity or they are now free from their destiny. I pray for the latter.

I also remember you.

When first we met you seemed too eager to jump into danger when it presented itself. I cannot help but laugh at the memory of Cid and Rammbroes continuous attempts to keep you in check. The moment your once emerald left eye took up the same crimson glow as your right, you grew. No longer were you the overeager young man that I first met, but a man who would someday become a great hero in your own right.

http://i.imgur.com/1UWojgU.png

Where are you, I wonder, within that massive structure? What did you say as the golden doors closed, finalizing our goodbye? Do you know why he calls me back to you?

I do not wish to cause undue concern to Tataru, for deep down, I know this is a journey I must walk alone to save those who have fallen into a deep slumber. If you are reading this, may it mean that I have succeeded and all I have done has not been in vain. For you are the only one who knows how this story ends.

Wait, could he be? No, never mind.

I promise, no matter what darkness may await me, this story will have a happy ending, by the Twelve and all who have fallen, I swear!

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Hm7LlW4TZXI/maxresdefault.jpg

Throughout the years, the time I've invested within Eorzea has developed memories that I've cherished to my core. Recounting my thoughts in search of the fondest brings back all kinds of imagery, from epic endeavors to heartfelt encounters to lackluster pastimes. There would be some truth in saying none of my memories can be held above all others, but the one that I would most regret not to share would be my time with one of the best people I've ever met, something I believe to be a timeless tale.

As the sun sat high in the sky, its rays of light bathed the trees and rooftops of the neighborhood for all sorts of adventurers to bask in and enjoy along the green lush. I had just moved into the Lavender Beds not too long ago, and I was working on decorating a cottage...but not just any cottage; this small home was my very first, and it was all mine.

It would take a few days and trips to other places, one which brought me to Idyllshire, a place still unfamiliar. As I was heading to the summoning bell amidst a busy crowd of different races crafting all around, I noticed a girl up on top of one of the tents...I had no idea how she'd gotten up there! I was still new around those parts, and I knew I must had been missing something. I looked around, though I was admittedly eager to get back to my new home, so finally I did what would sate my curiosity the fastest. I asked the girl, a miqo'te with a pointy hat and stylish glamour, and just like that she showed me the way! I showed my appreciation to her by giving her a rolanberry, one of my favorite snacks. It was exciting to learn something new I'd overlooked, but I was still oblivious to one thing, which is that the kind miqo'te would grow to be one of my best friends.

A few days had passed and I was working on my cottage...I'd had the kind fortune of my new friend in adorning it in a way that made me smile proudly. She was dressed as trendy as ever, and was so kind to me, beyond just helping me furnish my cottage. The miqo'te made silly jokes at every chance she got. It didn't take me long to realize how much she loved a bad pun, or what a total history buff she was. By the time the sun had begun to fall, we climbed up onto my new roof to look out over the lake. I was so happy and relaxed while we laughed about the silliest things.

It's been about two years now, and we talk almost every day over our linkshell. We've found out how much we have in common, and more importantly to me, how much we can trust one another. When I look at her search information now, I grin madly at the comment. "I'm your rolanberry". Each time I see it, I think back to those few days when we met. I think about when the two of us were just sitting up on that cottage rooftop, somewhere I could call home, next to a person that relentlessly made me smile.. In all of my time since I've come to Eorzea, that has been and always will be one of my very best memories.https://tinyurl.com/y6ho9zvs

Gaelicap

They call it a calamity.

I call it the end of the world. Certainly, it is the end of my life. I spend the last few minutes on the wreckage of our ship as it - and indeed, all of us - continue our slow descent into the blue abyss.

Our ship, dodging flame, fire, famine, bringing supplies to the needy, robbing the Ascian ships of their extra unneeded wealth, restructuring the laws of our area of our sea, is on fire and sinking.

Some have called us pirates, but the crew of the Tuberão, Lalafell one and all, are loyal to our company, to our boss, and to what is right by Lymlaen. Though we may be called pirate, we are all independent souls, relying on the great gifts of the sea and the sky to bear us through this toil and strife.

It has been honest work for honest pay - in that we honestly did the work we were bidden to do. Not sayin’ all the work was honest, mind you, but our blood, sweat, tears, and toil were. We nursed cracks in our hands, our heads, as well as cuts to our souls and soles over mead, ale, and bread. We’d eat like kings and queens onshore, but live on salted dried fish and a handful of grain, boiled in a forge’s light on a ship. Feast or famine, we saw it all. Our coin gold, and good where we landed; never question the source, and it be plentiful.

Calm seas never quite were calm after that day. There was a mighty roar, just as the seers projected, and the wall of water fell upon the village. We were all on board, holdin’ on for dear life as the wave swept us out to Hydaelyn knows where. It took us a few days to get our bearings and we floated in an area that was unfamiliar, but we pressed on.

But tonight, a clear night at dusk, the great Leviathan rose from the depths to smite us down. We managed to go hard to starboard, but lashed up on rocks. In the rising flood, there are no survivors. I write this and cast it into the sea, my home for the last 20 years, in hopes that one day it will be opened. Lord Leviathan claims more victims, and sea has in fact swallowed all.

Lymlaen, be merciful… my body now belongs to you. See me safely home….

https://i.imgur.com/ew6yss9.png

Captain Alili Ali, last of her name

(If I win the contest, I’d like the Gaelicap, please.)

(Should my entry be chosen, I would love to have the Gaelicap, please!)

Warrior of Light, my dearest friend—

I pray you can forgive me for remaining at your side. I had thought to go on ahead, but I couldn’t leave you. I know I can hardly protect you anymore, but I suppose I am too stubborn to move on.

You astounded me time after time. Your selflessness. Your smile.Your kindness. Again and again, I thought myself the luckiest in the world to be counted among your friends. But when I looked upon you that cold, hopeless morning, saw the pain in your gaze— I knew I could never let you look so sad again.

And so I had promised myself I would protect you. That no matter the cost, I would be as your shield. I had thought I had no regrets when I felt that lance’s cold steel through me, but when I saw your eyes, I knew I had made a mistake.

I had ever thought my destiny was to do as I did then- to die protecting the person I loved above all else. But I saw the look in your eyes- I hadn’t spared you pain for taking that blow for you. I should have done something else, should have thought, should have formed a plan first, as I had always warned you to- but I didn’t. And it’s you left behind to pay for that, to see things through. I am so, so sorry.

I can’t leave you all alone just yet. Not when there is still so much you have to do. I swear to you, I will stay at your side and aid you as much as I can until the bitter end.

Just promise me- you’ll still smile, won’t you? As I said back then- it truly suits you best. And your happiness means more to me than anything.

Ever watching over you

H. G.

It was many moons ago, although it always feels like it was yesterday.

The horrors that transpired that fateful night showed how one could be easily corrupted. Thankfully, nothing was leaked to the public about the state of the sultana. If even one word was spread, the whole of Eorzea will be put in turmoil.

A beloved hero fallen in disgrace. That was their goal.

The people will think it was true, yet it was all a set up to discredit Eorzea’s Champion and bring a coup towards Ul’dah’s monarchy.

Disowned by those who we’ve helped. Betrayed by those we’ve trusted. How wayward of me to believe that I can shoulder the burden of his achievements when all I’ve done is ride on his coattails.

Yet he kept his smile, bright and cheerful and unwavering as always. Their smile, I’ve always found comfort in them, the one I can fully trust and the one who’ve always trusted in me even though I was the sole reason that we are in this situation.

I was naïve. How childish of me.

I have failed.

Anger, embarrassment, disappointment, I know not exactly what I felt nor what to feel.

Even in the face of adversity, he had that selfsame expression on his face. This time, it was directed towards me, urging me to move on. He who save this land, he who inspires others, he who is the symbol of hope. Even after everything I’ve caused, he still puts his faith in me, this time, I shall put my faith in him.