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

As a Warrior of Light I’ve had many fond memories within Eorzea as well as Norvrandt. There have been ups, downs, friendships, betrayals, triumphs, and many, many humiliating defeats within savage and even extreme content. However my favorite moments tend to stem from the feeling of desperation; events that prove that no matter how high your obstacles are stacked against you, you should never give up. Since my upbringings as a Paladin, I have always strived to make the best of things and see them to their triumphant conclusion, or perish trying.

My favorite case of this occurred during the liberation of Ala Mhigo. My squadron of adventurers accompanied me into the Royal Palace in order to confront Zenos Yae Galvus and put an end to his rule over Gyr Abania. If my memory serves correctly we had little difficulty getting to him, but it was during the duel with him that our fortune seemed to plummet. Before I knew it, our squadron was cleaved in half through methods I could not mitigate, and our party was reduced to a lone samurai and I when the fight was hardly even halfway done.

It practically took my entire arsenal of utility to keep the Samurai alive as well as replenish my own health. I had trouble even maintaining the mana for more than two casts of Clemency, but despite our casualties we were still able to show the strength required from what would normally be four people, as well as the vitality that was virtually impossible to match without a proper healer. In spite of our losses we still managed to come out on top and defeat Zenos.

Since that day, I’ve always joked about how Paladins need to have a battle resurrection spell, but it sincerely was one of my biggest highlights of playing. I may have failed to save the two who fell in battle, but I certainly wouldn’t let my last comrade be lost to combat. It made me truly feel like a tank, a shield to the sword that was needed to put an end to the Garlean rule.

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...725c893d94.jpg

If I'm selected I would like the bluebird earrings.

Dearest Wanderer,

I have a face and a name, but those things do not matter in the grand scheme of it all.

What matters is the story I have to share.

On a day no more special or peculiar than others, I felt alone. I have felt alone so many times in my life.

In a sea full of people, I blended, becoming one of the nameless faces that create the Eorzean people.

But I wanted someone to notice me. I wanted someone to recognize the being that I was. Not faceless, not nameless, not a passerby of insignificance. I wanted someone to care. So I shouted out into the sea of strangers, which felt more like a void, daring it to shout back.

To my surprise, it did.

Someone responded to my statement, which slips my memory now (it must have been something about how lonely I felt).

This person talked to me. She kept me company and reassured me of a better tomorrow that would surely follow this bad day.

This person and I became friends, a name I could refer back to when yearning for someone to know, in moments when I was surrounded by strangers.

However, it wasn’t enough. I still felt unfulfilled. I longed for support, comfort, and friendship that felt constant. I needed a family.

A few weeks later, I asked the strangers in the Limsa Lominsan Aetheryte plaza for Free Company recommendations. I hoped I could find what I was looking for.

There were a few responses. It warmed my heart to know there were welcoming people out there, but there was one response that changed everything for me.

The friend from before reached out to me, letting me know she ran a Free Company, small but mighty, willing to accept me. I jumped on the opportunity as quickly as I could.

My application was accepted and suddenly, I was thrust into a new world. A world where people greeted me by name each time I woke to start my next adventure, where conversations were hearty and inclusive, where help was abundant and unconditional, requiring nothing but the kindness returned. Most of all, it was a world where I belonged.

Dearest wanderer, if there is one thing I must convey to you, let it be this:

Our stories are our own, but they are also everyone else’s in some way, too. We see ourselves reflected in each other and by my own definition, that is what it means to be alive: to connect with other people.

There are people who feel exactly as you do. There are people who understand. There are people who care. You just have to open your heart and let them find you. And if they don’t, go find them.

You’re never alone in this world.

Sincerely,
Another Wanderer
(who, if chosen as a winner of this contest, would love the Noble Barding)

There wasn’t just one time that I treasured or even a person I fell in love with that got me to keep exploring. I have way too many stories of those exact things. I journeyed with my sister for the first time but that only lasted for only a bit, I made and lost friends so many times that it's hard to pin-point just one memory. I was filled with love and torn apart by heartbreak so much that it's hard to say it was a turning point in my life. All of these are special to me, but these weren’t the reasons I kept going.

Silly as it might be, it was the feeling that I felt when the first time I truly stopped and gazed up at the night sky. I never saw so much attention in detail nor even a shooting star in any other game I have played before nor did I bother enough to even look. Sure there are day and night cycles in almost all MMOs, but this one was deep and vast some stars were different colors from the others even before the Astrologian was even a thing. As I stared up to those jewels I realized that the zone music had stopped. Making it feel quiet and still. All was calm with only the world to speak with the gentle breeze, ripples of water and ever so often footsteps of would-be travelers pass by.

I felt freedom in that peace. I felt my heart pound in excitement knowing there is more I must-see, a place I might have overlooked. Returning the night to the first reminded me of this very memory so overwhelmed was I that I blubbered and cried at that very moment.

Thank you,
A Wandering Traveler

(Noble Barding)

A Shadow in the Blazing Light

Broken and battered, I slipped away through the dim-lit streets of Amaurot. It was amazing how empty the gargantuan walkways were -- save an occasional spectre, only interested in chastising me as if I were a child. If I had any fight left in me, I’m sure I would’ve given them the old “talk or die” routine. But that destructive sensation flowing through me kept me in check. Sheer hopelessness was all I could muster even as I pushed onward, the searing pain of light mutilating every nerve in my body. I tried, I really tried to put on a strong face for those who remained by my side. Yet I truly did yearn for this to be my end. For the light to shatter every bone in my body with every memory that remained. Why? Why must it always be me? I’m only one girl, yet it always falls on me. Because I was blessed with Her divine curse. Magnificent skyscrapers caved me in with a lingering familiarity. Spacious, yet claustrophobic. I scorned the one who sent me on this neverending mission. For every life I’ve saved, there’s been a fragment in my heart waiting for mine to end. I told myself over and over that the world needed me. Ha, how what a load of shite. This city that I -- or whoever I was -- once called home. My final resting place would be the shadow of a long-gone paradise, it too meant only to fade away in despair.

...Had Ardbert not noticed my will to live evaporate, I may not be here today. The pain subsided as his spirit grabbed hold of my face. He gave me a wake-up slap on the cheeks, though his palms were still transparent and touchless. The look on his face was destitute, yet determined. “Is that really all you’ve got, Mana? After all that work, you’re just going to let the wretched light win over?”

Tch, as if. I’ve always been a stubborn one when it came to my pride as a dark knight, and I wasn’t about to let that slip. I drew my blade and smashed it onto the concrete, pulling myself up, my ankles still stinging from the light. I could barely walk and wanted nothing more than to die right there, but something kept me limping forward, a voice in my head reminding me I wasn’t allowed to give up. No matter how much it hurt, don’t give up. That sliver of strength keeping me going… Fray, that was you, wasn’t it?


https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...9dbcbd93e9.png

(Scarf of Wondrous Wit)

It was the grand opening of my bar and the wedding reception of two friends of mine, a ribbon-cutting tie-the-knot bonanza, and things were wildly out of hand. Barely half a bell in, three roast dodos were demolished and someone had faceplanted in the shortcake. A silver-haired Miqo'te had gotten cuffed to the bar to prevent him free access to the kegs, but it was too late to confiscate the one he was already draining. Perfect strangers were macking in the corner by the fireplace at a volume to rival the orchestrion. The groom was sprawled across the couch with one drink in him and his new wife was balancing a glass of Lominsan Red on his forehead. Glancing out a window as I brought another round of Shroud perry to a cluster of Triple Triad players, I saw my barmaid heave a Hyur bodily into the pond.

So the party was going well.

A pair of Lalafell gamboled underfoot as I made my way back to the bar past an Au'ra whose chin was dribbling with the juice of the damson in her partner's hand. Our mountain of a guildmaster was smiling genially at the room at large as he nodded off against one wall. A gangly Elezen flashed me a handsign and a wink; returning the latter, I reached beneath the bar and filled a tumbler with Garlean Oil--I know, I know, questionable legality and all that, but at least it was better than the group huffing ceruleum fumes outside by the campfire, which I certainly did not see at the time, thank you officer, and I can't remember their faces neither.

A Hyuran woman with a splash of Merry Mogharita on her muslin was scratching sigils on my countertop in an attempt to summon sobriety, hunched under the weight of the Roegadyn snoring on her shoulder. One overproud acquaintance was loudly proclaiming his victories in the arena; I awarded him with a pint of porter spiked with a hefty aperient--he was clearly full of shite. The cuffed Miqo'te with a hollow leg and, now, a hollow keg was casting about for something new; the chef lit up and slid a tub of untouched mandragora stew toward him.

Above the wine rack sat my bouncer, Finneas, keeping a watchful eye on the chaos. His yellow-and-black warpaint was enough to give anyone who spotted him a moment of pause. Of course, this was in part due to his being a fish mouthing soundlessly through the glass of his tank, but the idea of this fish being employed as a bouncer in the finest bar in the realms implied that he was godsdamned good at his job.

My staff and I shared a glance and inserted our earplugs as the opening lines of Eorzea's most famous song came over the orchestrion. In moments, the floorspace was filled to an ilm of capacity as the cadre of drunkards began howling the lines of "Answers" with all the harmony of a sack of gaelicats.

This was around the time the cuffed Miqo'te escaped his bonds and began stripping on the counter. But that's a story for another time.


-Tethys Alke, "Memoirs of a Cat with No Lives"

Bluebird Earring, please!

To whom this would reach,

I don’t know who would find this, perhaps I am talking to no one and this message will forever float below the waves. Even so, this is less for the idea of someone reading this message and more for the ability to put to paper my own experiences to help me better forge my decisions for the future, and if this should find someone, then it could also serve as a form of guidance from someone who has seen their fair share in their travels across this world and beyond. I never felt more alone then when my story began, I had heard of the expansive and beautiful places beyond my secluded view and wondered if I could become a part of that world. Ever since then I have done so much, traveled from end to end of this world and seen near every type of person or creature you could ever imagine, and yet there is still so much more left to see and know. However, with great joy and wonder, sadness and regret linger not far behind. Those moments tend to stick out more to those who are privy to self-reflection, and can leave scars that none may ever truly see. I have pondered on many of these moments, and have come to realize, after a time, that loss of any kind cannot be left to fester in your mind calling you to make some foul choice or two in their name, and to accept and keep moving forward in your journey will give that loss worthwhile meaning. If any of these recollections of my journey taught me anything, it’s that not one can be thrown out as unimportant or uninfluential in my growth as a person, as all of the moments that have led up to now, light or dark, have made me into the person that I have become. Whether to remember the death of a close friend who did their all to see you safe, or the joyous end to a people saved from strife to carve a new future of their own making, none should be left aside. So, if you are still reading this, remember your own tale, and all of the trials and tribulations you had to suffer through, and embrace them, along with the boons and prosperity you may have earned, for to scoff at either would halt you from the growth you deserve.

~From the writings of a vigilant venturer

(If this should be chosen, I would prefer the Noble Barding for my lovely chocobo Bernard. Thank you for reading.)

noble barding, sorry forgot to add this and we cant edit doc right? man :(

Knowledge is a funny thing. To learn is to live. Without learning, we are no better than beasts, acting upon only the blood that runs in our veins.

However, curiosity killed the coeurl. If you must dive deep into the unknown, know that you may never breach the surface ever again.

Such musings are what led my adventure here, to the island they called “The Forbidden Land”. It was not an easy task to find people such as me, so hungry for knowledge that they would journey to such a place. Scholars, adventurers, aetherologists and beast tamers; all seeking the same: knowledge of an unknown world. The knowledge of Eureka.

Ordinarily I would always get appointed mercenaries, adventurers guild associates or conscripted soldiers to escort me along my journeys, but this was different. We were united under one common goal. Despite all the hardships we endured and the arguments we went through, we always came out on the other side stronger, smarter and most importantly, together. We pressed onward, our destination looming on the horizon among the blistering snow.

Our adventures were led by none other than Krile Mayer Baldesion, a most enigmatic figure. Her small stature and pleasant demeanor clashed violently with her shadowy history. Through much ‘accidental’ eavesdropping, I came to find that this was the very same Isle where the Scholars of Baldesion originated. Even more profound was that the Isle had been completely shaped anew after there was a devastating turn of events, not unlike that of the Seventh Umbral Calamity.

Knowing of this, our efforts expanded tenfold. Instead of the usual cheery and joyous atmosphere that usually filled the tavern, there were many hushed murmurs while scholars pored over tomes and papers. We knew that each word we scribed and each step we took drew us further to that blighted castle.

Armor clanking, weapons at the ready, we lined up to be debriefed on our final mission. Trembling, I gripped the hilt of my rapier in an effort to get a hold of myself. Soon, we would uncover the final secrets of this place; of what happened to Galuf. I felt a hand on my shoulder and looked up. There they were, my team of would-be adventurers who had gotten into the same mess I did. Confident they were, not worried in the slightest. Knowing this, I could only try to do the same. I nod my head to them, and they nod back. I feel reassured knowing that we are in this together, and set my sights forward to the Baldesion Arsenal, where nigh a Primal nor an Eikon exist, but the miscreations of ancient Allag whom I only thought as mere fairytales did await us.

If you do come across this parchment know this, adventurer. Our lives are questions without answers. It is not happenstance that we learn to exist, for what else is there that awaits us beside death. If you are to seek knowledge, you will find much more than some words scribbled in tomes.

Yours Truly,
A Eurekan Explorer

(reward: Scarf of Wondrous Wit)

In my travels across the realms, I often stumble upon yellowing scraps of parchment and notes, old maps tucked away and forgotten. I add these odds and ends to our collection, hoarding them away until such a time can be found to study and explore their contents.

At last, once our work is done and our party can reunite once again, we pull these faded bits out and pass them around, comparing notes and making plans. Oh, for by day we each may be grand warriors of legend, but by night, we are mere treasure hunters, always ready for the next great discovery.

With these crumbling maps in hand, we seek out all the fortunes this land has to offer... at least for those brave enough to look. If these treasures are guarded by fierce beasts and demons galore, well, we pay them little mind. And while these chests may provide a wealth of materials and prizes, what we truly hope to find is something a bit more special.

For sometimes, tucked away within these stashes, there lies a portal. They are gateways to some long lost dungeon, perhaps a hidden palace or forgotten paradise. Whatever form they take, these little pocket places promise both danger and riches to all those lucky enough to wander their halls.

Luck being the operative word, for while our careful exploration and study have noted each dungeon is made up of several rooms… well, we rarely make it past all the blasted traps. There is an end, we’ve seen its gilded walls once or twice, but more often than not we fail soon after arrival. We have all come to know and fear the sound of slamming gates. No, going right every time doesn’t work, nor does always going left. Dancing seems to only lift our spirits, not the gates themselves, and the doors pay no mind to our desperate pleas.

And yet, though our coffers never fill quite as much as we hope, and our bags are lighter than we would like, we are always on the search for the next chest and another portal. For while gold is sweet, and ancient treasures sweeter, it is the jokes and laughter that make even the shortest adventures worth while.

/Praying for your good fortune,
An Unlucky Treasure Hunter



(Prize Selection: Noble Barding)

I gazed into the eyes that, just moments earlier, had been glazed and blazing red with the rage of eons. Now they were, once again, gold and cool. The bitter anger, the biting cynicism, the vengeful disappointment – all these things were gone from them, drained like poison from a festering wound. In their place was a calm resignation, an acceptance of the hand which fate had dealt.

“Remember that we lived,” Emet-Selch, the Architect, said softly.

I nodded. It was the least I could do for the help he had given. Remember him. Remember his people. Remember the tragic burden he had borne on his own shoulders for years beyond numbering. I could do that.

After the fire and rage, the shadow and despair, the war and the blood, came peace and calm acceptance. As I regarded my most worthy adversary, watching the light of a new dawn wash over his face and through the hole where once his heart had been, I made a vow to him and to myself. I would remember him. I would remember his people. Their city. That they had hopes and dreams no less than the hopes and dreams of those whom I protected. And, one day, perhaps, when I made that last journey to the place where all souls are eventually called, I would stop in to share new memories with my old friend. Perhaps then he would tell me what it is he’d seen that twisted his features into horrified sorrow. And perhaps we would open a bottle of the bittersweet brew and reminisce, trading tales and truths, hopes and fears, laughter and sorrow, until such a time as it came for us to make our next trek through life.
“I will,” I promised the shade of a man who had once and always been as much a part of my life as my own shadow.

And then I left the city of dying memories to return to the land of the living with the Scions and the Crystal Exarch, my old friend G’raha Tia.

That night, as I watched the sun set on a world still new to night’s shadow, I found myself sitting alone at a table in the bar with one glass before me and one to the side, lost in my own memories and promises to one who I prayed had, at long last, found peace.

Prize: Chocobo Barding

Midnight Sage, Mid to her comrades, watched as the slumbering world began to stir. She sat on the shore of Longmirror Lake, her mind wandering, recalling memories of adventures past.
She often found herself reflecting on her adventures. She’d even considered writing a book- “Gridania and Back: A Hero’s Journey Across Realms.”
Mid could still remember the beginning, so unsure of herself, but the desire for adventuring burning like a sun inside of her. She learned how to fight, how to survive. But most importantly, she learned how to heal. Those lessons were the hardest, dealing with what it felt like when a comrade fell. But she learned, and overcame. She was no longer unsure- now she was sure-footed, could stand her own and support her fellow adventurers.
She’d seen nations divided, countries ransacked, left to their despair. Destruction tore through, gnashing like monstrous teeth, ripping people and country apart. Those cherished and lost were mourned. It was inevitable, as an adventurer, that tears would be shed.
All was not bad, however. She’d seen success and triumph. Nations united, bonds forged, people working side by side to rebuild. In her own life, Mid made many friends and still had comrades she adventured with regularly.
On the lake, water rippled gently, sending shivers through the reflections of the trees. The blue and purple hues struck Mid sharply, reminding her of a certain foe’s purple/blue cape. She smiled and she remembered.
She and her comrades had gathered to thwart the threat of Omega. They had overcome many trials, and here they were again, facing down a powerful mage, Exdeath. Weapons were sharpened; strategies discussed. The band of heroes eager to be victorious over such a mighty foe.
The group joked and laughed as they made their way. The mood grew somber, voices quieted as they drew closer. Only the soft swoosh of weapons being drawn remained.
Mid looked at her fellow adventurers. Her friends. She couldn’t help but smile and her heart swelled with both anticipation for the coming brawl and admiration for those standing beside her.
The silence was heavy. One could taste the anticipation; like copper and sweat. Then a snicker broke the quiet. Mid jumped, looking around. The snicker became a giggle. Then another voice, “tee hee”. Soon, half the party was stifling laughter. Mid noticed, her own mouth turning up, a chuckle threatening to leap out.
The party was clad in armor, ready for anything. That is, all of the party save one. Mid could no longer contain her laughter; peeling forth gleefully. The whole group busted into riotous guffaws as they looked at their comrade. There she stood, not in armor, but in wear more suited for water. Not one of them had noticed.
She stood there, cheeks burning with embarrassment and gave a little shrug. The erupted as she looked around at everyone, gave a “silly me” gesture with her hands, and just said, “Oops.”

(Prize: noble barding).

For me, she was the last for the Four Lords to face. Genbu requested we save his kin, and so we endeavored not against the auspices themselves, but their bestial emotions. While all three were possessed with the feeling of rage, Byakko was also wrought with loneliness and isolation, while Seiryu's character was betrayed by those in his ward; a life completely misunderstood. Suzaku-sama, however... how do you save someone from love?

Perhaps, it was the purity of our intent to liberate her from the grief that had bound the wings of her love that gave us the power to soothe her rage. Such pain, such loss, such desire, all emanated from such a beautiful and intelligent being. And yet, to mistake us for Tenzen... To mistake our intent? Maybe, for her, it was a fight against the ideal and the real?

Our fight to bring Suzaka-sama back from the suffocating grip of grief stuck with me even after Koryu's defeat. It wasn't because I empathized with her, no, it was because my talent lay in easing thick emotions like these.

For me, the battle against her grief did not end upon her defeat. For me, the battle against her grief took place 129 times. For me, it was replaying the trial over and over and over in my mind's eye in deep meditation: employing different strategies, equipping different jobs, fighting alongside completely different allies. For me, the trial to overcome was untangling the knot that sat at her core… the knot named Tenzen.

I gleaned that it was a combination of bearing witness to the loss of her dear Tenzen, and suffering the loss of a healthy outlet for her overwhelming love that began the, spiral of depression for Suzaku-sama. With every victory I pieced more and more of it together until I finally understood: it was not about replacing Tenzen and the outlet he provided, his place in her heart will always belong only to him, but to show Suzaku-sama that there are others out there worthy of her love, worthy of her blessing.

By way of extending her love, she would live on in those she touched, and they would, in turn, live on eternal in her. Those she helped while traveling with Tenzen could never be forgotten. In a way, she would grant them immortality within her… but only if she were willing to try again. This is when I knew that the trial was complete.

I would eventually seek an audience with Suzaku-sama, and in return I was the first to receive her blessing anew. She also blessed Noriko, my loving chocobo companion, with fiery red plumage and a noble barding that resembled a divine firebird. Finally, she made a request of me,
"Blaze a new path for this one too." As a newly hatched scarlet peacock took roost on my shoulder.

So, I have been. Heavy, debilitating emotions like grief and loneliness and inadequacy affect us all, so it is up to us to use our love and our strengths to ease the despair and cover the weaknesses of our allies. To be the Firebird that burns eternal the flame of hope.

Scarf of Wondrous Wit

“Truly my friend I wish you had been there and not only to lend your strength, but your council would have been welcome. There was a depth of emotion and thought that I feel that only Urianger can and would try to understand. Yet I can’t help but feel that even he would not truly grasp what it meant to me to strike the man down. I do not regret what I had to do, only the fact that it had to be done at all. To think a man who had lived a life so far beyond our own ephemeral, and perhaps even beyond our understanding, would choose such a course. Was there not another way? Could one not be thought of or did he simply refuse to? If he did refuse to was it maliciousness? Cowardice? Or had he simply felt such pain of heart and soul, he latched onto the one path he was sure would succeed without fail? “ With a heavy sigh, I’Chai could only raise his cup and with the gentle clink of metal and a muttered “Cheers” he threw his head back.

As the warmth of drink rushed through his body, he could not help but heave another sigh. “As warriors, both you and I defending our nation, our homes from any threat that comes to it with all that we are, not for some sense to save the world as the Scions do but simply to save our home and people. That the world is saved is a secondary accomplishment, for we in our hearts would save our homes and people first as is our duty. Yes, I am sure you would understand this and the burden it weighs on a soul.” Brushing a finger across his link pearl I’chai listened for a moment before rising from the ground with a sigh.“Speak of the voidsent and they appear. Duty calls, my friend; yet before I go I would share something with you that will make you smile.”

“In my travels, I have gained a friend and ally that, while young, her spirit would rival your own in its desire to protect others. Your words, my friend, I have passed on to another. “ Brushing his fingers over the cold stone and the name engraved I’Chai could only smile “As you said, a smile better suits a hero and I think from now on Ryne will smile as you would have me do. Be well my friend, I will visit again soon.“

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...9ac64bce2e.png

*If chosen to receive a prize I would like the Noble Barding, please. *

Dear, whom it may concern

I have many found memories playing Final Fantasy Fourteen for the PC. I first heard about Final Fantasy Fourteen from a fan run panel at Anime Festival Orlando (AFO) 2017. I was reluctant to start an anther subscription based MMORPG game as my first experience with a MMORPG was on a game where you could pick a goddesses of light to play or a goddesses of darkness to play by a company that I don’t think exist anymore that I can’t remember the name of did not end while. After attending the panel “The history of Final Fantasy Throughout the ages.” I pre-ordered the three-pack combination of A Realm Reborn, Havensword and Bloodstrom from amazon. I have yet to finish Bloodstrom but I ended up per-ordering the collector edition download of Shadowbringers from the square-nix website.

What made Final Fantasy Fourteen so attractive was that it was very single person friendly and there was the option of having more than one job on a single character. Now two years later I am a part of two FC companies and I have six characters. Even through you can multi-job on Final Fantasy Fourteen I still enjoy playing different races. Other things that make Final Fantasy Fourteen so fun to play is the long in-depth story line of the main quest line and each expansion pack has its own story unique to that expansion pack it’s like four Final Fantasy games in one Final Fantasy game.

I cried when Papalymo died and Minfilia got trapped somewhere in between the world of Aetheryte and the world of Final Fantasy Fourteen. I have been utterly shocked to the bone when I find out that yda was actually Lisa and a bit confusion but once I head her side of things why she lied about who she was things made a little more sense. I laughed when Y’shtola slapped Thancred for making that comment about her being as naked as her name day. This was when Y’shtola was pulled out of the world of Aetheryte. I remember feeling on top of the world when I slayed Midgardsormr and his dragon kin. I have felt invincible when I stormed Doma castle built into the hills overlooking the waters below the far east with the help of lord Hien. Just to name a few of my Favorite main quest line memories.

Now I must become the Warrior of darkness. Honestly, I have been staling because I am not sure what things will be like on the Dark Side and I have become fond of being the warrior of light.

Your Friend,
Usagikyo Chitsuki
Zalera
Noble Barding

I'm not sure who will read this. Given my status as an eleventh son to a family of Keepers, I'm not sure if anyone will. But write I shall, believing in that flimsy concept known as luck. 'Tis hard to believe I began my journey mere months ago, fresh-faced with little more than a grimoire at my side and the clothes on my back. I could regale you with the entirety of my adventure, from the bandits of La Noscea to the impossibilities of the First, but I think it best for you and I to recall that which I treasure most fondly. I speak, of course, of my party, my comrades-in-arms, my friends.

The first I met by chance in Ul'dah. 'Tis difficult to describe him, as he constantly changes appearance and race, even to that of a woman! The changeling greeted me on the desert sands one day, and I, as if I had known him for years, answered him in kind, quickly forging a relationship. He is a kind and witty soul, if loud and prideful. His powers are as indecisive as his appearance; one day, he plays the machinist, the next, he is enraptured by the melodies of the bards.

I was later introduced to the second, his partner-in-adventuring: a Highlander, much taller than I, with unkempt hair and a well-kept beard, his mere existence a pillar of strength in the bustling city streets. His face and voice betrayed one another; he seemed exhausted, and yet he spoke to the changeling, and to me, into the long hours of the night. His strength, however, is far more faithful to his appearance; little can break through his guard once he loads his cartridge and grits his teeth.

The last joined soon after the Dragonsong War had come to a close, a Lalafell who aspired to be a powerful Red Mage. Oddly enough, he had the same hairstyle as I, though he preferred grey to my green. Like the changeling, I felt as if I had known him for some time, but, like me, he was yet unfamiliar with the world, and joined us in the hopes that we could teach him through trial, over study. Though his temper (and his height, for that matter) is short, his heart is large, and is always willing to lend a helping hand. He still has much to learn, but I truly believe in him.

I will admit, my entrance to the world at large was... taxing. I found my fairies difficult to control, and what little arcanima I could command earned the ire of those who expected more. But my allies were different. Rather than anger, I drew their sympathy; I was not merely a means to an end, but a self, a presence. In truth, I have become even more, having mastered arcanima, and even now, I endeavor to study the ways of the Hingashi samurai. Through them, I now see my own potential.

Should someone read this, and find their heart moved by my words, I should be glad to have written such. May you find your sanctuary, your Twelve-given allies, as I have.

Yours,
A near-illiterate Scholar

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...5f8809eece.jpg

(Bluebird Earrings)

My fondest memory is the first time I played a game of hide and seek.

As large, wooden doors creaked behind and with a quick glance towards the grandfather clock in the adjacent room before the doors closed and blanketed the area in a black shroud of darkness, the race began. I scanned the immediate area, only to be left with disappointment upon locating nothing suitable. Only the tick-tocking of the grandfather clock served to remind me of the task at hand. Each step was swift and precise as I searched my way through the dimly lit hallways of the mansion that seemed almost like a complex maze one could never find their way out of. Which way was I supposed to go? There were so many options. Each second spent thinking was another wasted, consumed by the constant, yet slow passage of time I could never get back as it made my heart thump increasingly harder while time ticked itself into oblivion.

Flickering candles overhead and upon candelabras on nearby tables provided little solace in the encroaching darkness as I reached for and grasp a nearby handrail of sleek, finished wood to cling onto for safety as it guided my body down a flight of stairs. Creak...the sound of aging boards echoed against the walls and rang in my ears, but was soon replaced by a deafening silence upon reaching the depths of the basement. It appeared as a foreign environment once its vast, open halls were deprived of light. Instead, the dark’s embrace crept forth and clung tightly around my body, leaving me destitute of the calming light I had begun to miss so dearly.

Rubbing my eyes, I steadily became adjusted to the darkness that blanketed the area as I guided my hand along the smooth, cold stone walls to ease my way through a corridor that seemingly stretched for miles and towards a room in the far distance that resided in the very depths of the basement. Step after step, foot after foot until I crept up to and peered just past an overarching doorway. Scanning the room, a table nearby draped in a regal tablecloth proved suitable for my needs - to which only time would tell if I had made the right decision. My diminutive stature allowed me to merely lift the cloth to allow myself underneath and into the void within.

GONG!

The clock beckoned. I curled myself up into a ball underneath my safe haven to await my fate and listened for footsteps that quickly proved futile over the hammering in my chest. It was not until my eyes darted towards a stream of light pouring underneath the long cloth overhanging the table that made me freeze in fear.Time seemed to stop as footsteps grew louder and ever closer. Soon enough, slender fingers snaked underneath to grab hold and remove the cloth from the table. Light burst forth, temporarily blinding me before my sight readjusted to the visage of my dear friend. “Found you, Popu! Now it’s your turn.”

After that, we took turns finding each other until we were both ready to fall asleep!

I would like a Gaelicap please!

“I’M NOT DONE YET!” Iskandar roared against the screaming winds of bitter cold. The smell of iron tainted the air as he could see his allies trapped between the cliff edge and the deadly quarry they faced. Blood stained the pure white snow like an open wound upon the earth as his fellow party members stared at him with a mixture of shock and amazement that he was even standing after the drake had smashed into his armor.
https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...181b217468.png

“What are you doing! RUN” Cornelia shouted but even with adrenaline pumping through her veins like fire, she couldn’t bring herself to run toward Iskandar.

Despite his instincts, despite a plea from his lifelong friend and the pain, Iskandar didn’t flee. He gritted his teeth into a feral snarl as he threw himself at the drake. The sounds of battle exploded around them as Iskandar and the drake exchanged blows. Even through the pain, the drake thought itself the victor of this hunt when in a surprise to both combatants Iskandar let go of the sword to grip the monster’s chest in a viselike grip. Iskandar let out a war cry as he threw himself and the drake toward the cliff edge. The two fell off the side as the mixed symphony of cries and shouts were lost within the howl of bitter wind and ice.

Cornelia crawled over to the edge of the cliff, panic racing through her eyes as her mind raced.

“ISKANDAR!?” She shouted as she saw her friend hanging from the cliff face. The drake’s limp body hooked around Iskandar’s leg, planning even in death to bring him down. Blood dripped down his body as he let a tired smile form along his lips, a nostalgic feeling washing over his tired frame. How many times had he done this? It seemed like a lifetime ago.

“Hold on! I’ll pull you up!” Her hands tried to reach out for him.

“You can’t pull me up.” Iskandar stated as the rock wall began to ripple with cracks; small chunks and pebbles fading into the white mist of nothingness below. The cliff wouldn’t be able to handle the weight of the whole light party, let alone the drake clinging to Iskandar’s leg.

“NO I WON’T LET YOU DIE!” Cornelia screamed, tears turning to ice droplets before ever reaching the ground.

A somber laugh left Iskandar’s lips as he smiled back up to Cornelia, “You already did. You, Chris, Cat, and all the others of the Astral Vanguard; you saved me long before I saved any of you. This world is cruel, downright unfair sometimes, but all of you have shown me that life is something worth fighting for. That even for someone filled with darkness, there is still a mote of light left.”

His fingers slowly let go of the rock, with Cornelia crying out for him to stop.

“I am glad to have met all of you.” His words left a trembling smile on his face as he let go of the cliff. Iskandar closed his eyes as the dim light of the stars began to peek through the clouds of grey, smiling as he faded into the mist.

1,524 yalms, and counting.

The makeshift lift was still dropping through the Ragnarok’s drive cylinder as I caught my breath. Uncomfortable as it was, I sat atop the broken remains of an ancient and colossal Allag machine. One that had been, just moments ago, trying to turn me into nice new coat of Highlander veneer for the floor.

Wading deep through the rest of the metallic wreckage littered about, my Brother swaggered over to me. With an axe ever stained with blood resting against his shoulder, he grinned almost hysterically, laughing the laugh of a man that knows he should be dead. Clapping a hand on my shoulder that rivaled the size of a La Noscean dodo, he shook me excitedly.

“So,” the massive Roegadyn said between laughs, “two at the same time. How’d that work out for you?”

I didn’t realize I was still gripping tightly at my sword’s hilt when I gestured to the remains below me. His still good eye followed the point of the white blade as I swept it toward another hulking heap of thoroughly thrashed machinery not too far from where I sat. Attempting to match his enthusiasm, and failing handily, I forced a shaky smile myself.

“Could’ve been worse,” I replied, trying to look past him. “Right? Everyone’s okay?”

He stepped aside, thumbing in the direction of where the rest of our crew still stood. The madcap Bard that never missed a shot, let alone a note. The brazen Monk that always dared to be first to the fight. The stoic Dragoon that could not settle for second best. The soft-spoken Black Mage whose soul burned brighter than the rest of ours combined. The paired White Mages, who would sooner see the second coming of Dalamud’s descent than watch us collapse from our wounds.

I choked a bit when I saw them all still on their feet. Still on their feet, and not in a disheveled mess from being brought back from the brink by a recently applied Raising. Each and every dent on my shield, not to mention the damage wrought beneath, had been worth it.

No, it had been beyond worth it to weather the savage beating as I had at the hand of those two dreadnoughts. All just to see them smiling in triumph, to hear their cries of victory. Even if it took dredging the furthest depths of my resolve just to survive, I wouldn’t trade a moment like this for all the damnable tomestones in the world.

(Thank you for reading. The Noble Barding is my choice, should I be selected.)

I’ve never once come to regret my heritage and even today I stand by my words. Though not written in the annals of history, Lalafells have been a staple food for many, a well-kept secret amongst adventurers. Unbeknownst to me, I had joined a Free Company filled with faux friends whose faces grinned ear to ear knowing my eventual fate. It wasn’t long before we were touring the F.C. house. Led down aged steps before being thrown into a cage. I was given leftover popotos day after day, as if mocking my very existence. Fellow Lalafell inhabited nearby cages as well, but slowly their numbers dwindled until few remained.

My time left in this world was short as one of my brethren left with each supper. We heard whispers around the dungeon, talks of Lalafells being sacrifices to the gods for rare drops or roast Lalafell being the greatest delicacy. I had to find a way out, to escape this prison that would lead to my demise. Banging on the cage only brought pain to my tiny hands and the keys were much too far from reach as my arms were that of a Lala. Yet it had slowly dawned on me over this past month, the cages we were given were slightly too big for some Lalafells! Being the runt of my family, I was smaller than most. Able to fit through the bars as long as I folded back my massive ears. All I could do now was wait as I searched for a time to escape, but security was tight as each member left their fat cats to keep watch on us 24/7.

I had no choice, as rumors were spilled that the Lala with the massive ears was next. A few hours before supper, only one fat cat lay in silence fast asleep and that was when I made my break. Ears folded back I slipped through and tried to sneak using ninja training I had learned shortly before my capture. Yet as I snuck the upstairs Orchestrion changed to the Shadowbringers boss theme and it was well known that you cannot hide while in battle. The fat cat’s eyes sprung open and lunged catching my Lala leg. I could only limp up the stairs and through the doors of the FC Hall. The sun greeted me for the first time in days as well as a delightful chirp. My chocobo lay stabled, my only chance for escape with this damned leg. Hopping on, the crash of the front door echoed. An Au’ra riding her fat cat emerged and the chase was on. Each corner turned a fat cat followed, bloodlust in its eyes, never such a fear I have felt by one so supposedly cute. All the while the Aura on its back threw rocks in hope of maiming either one of us. Twists and turns in the streets of the Goblet were so foreign to me, but we ran past houses and houses until finally the fat cat no longer followed and I was free.

This is now a message to all out there. We Lalafells are friends not food. If you are captive, you can escape and we can all be free once more. There is always hope, even if we cannot see it beyond those that are taller.

Tatsu Katsu and Meep the Chocobo

(If I win I would like the Noble Barding!)

Approach again, young friends.
As time forfends the hurt of dens,
Now lost…

We were four. Truer company hath never been so free…
Our land, score. Costs a few million gil; our sanctuary.
We toiled, we tinkered. Design at our pace, resources our enemy.
Creativity sparks flickered. Limited space, yet unlimited possibility.

Our company bared the crest of dragons, and the names of the stars as well.
We champions branded celestial dragon roots, caught no recruitment swell.

Our little home in the mists. Just us four. Perfect historical harmony.
Yet grander goals twist, yearning for more. A merging ceremony.

Myself, a meager crafter then. Supplied my allies with wares of war.
My new alliance, my orders thrice fold, I truly missed the days of yore.
Goals ever changing, mansions in waiting, money needs making, mine devils.
Started from the bottom, sold brass accessories for slaving through low levels.

Augmentations a goldmine, new Syrcus is just fine, and this rare item? Yours! ...for a price!
These gil loads, all mine. And always in just perfect time! Why you ask? Heed my advice.
These mansions, they sell quick, and trust me, they’re quite slick. All the hours lost to time.
Lock the in the payment! *click!* Well that should do the trick! Sighing these words of mine…

Duty Complete.

We did it! The builder of realms! The gillionare! Now reset to zero.
Get with it! Put on your helms! All fanfare starts for the heroes…

Our merged company now starts anew, furnishing the future with wares made of dreams.
Yet time has different plans in view, and change is never still, thus it always seems…

This ballad has been one we’ve been dancing around for a while, what once was a singular goal…
Now the nocturne of fate, a fissure of interests, divided parties, and the prelude to lost souls.
For each era promised a destiny to be matched with an octet…
Ever dwindling numbers yet could only provide a quartet.
As more leave, the exodus gains momentum. A duet.

Years later…

I made this happen. The walls, furnishings, faults… all mine.
The foundations crumbled; these walls still hold empty time.

I’ve banished all but a few who visit during holidays. We could no longer come to terms.
From hundreds recruited down to… just… one…

I still try to update and maneuver this place into a vision of what I wanted all along.
But, one person living alone is as cold and lonely as the point of this song.

The fondest memories, mine history, were with friends now gone.
Yet, change is ever on the dawn. I will rebuild anew; live on.

__________________________________________________

Thank you for reading, if chosen, I would appreciate a Noble Barding.

To the greatest knight in all Ishgard (and beyond of course),

I pray these chilled winds and snowflakes bring this safe and swift to your hands. Yes, I am quite aware I can speak freely beside you, but a missive is more enjoyable. Don’t ye think? Better than inventory lists and guard rotation at least? Well I pray it is or else I’ve wasted good parchment and ink. A tease for another day I’m sure.

Still, how are ye mine dearest friend? Not battling something insufferable, I hope. Not every adventure (even while dreaming) is full of danger, but I know that is your favorite part. I swear your grins would split your face at every monster and battle retelling. The drinks never ending. But those are for another day and ye better have tales for me as well.

Pray forgive me, here I am rambling when I had something important to say. Oh hush, not everything I say (while not always much) is important. But what I wanted to say was thank you. For what, ye may ask. That’s simple. Do ye remember that day from, what feels like, so long ago? I’m hurt if ye must think about it, but I am being vague. (Not on purpose I swear to Hydaelyn!) I remember it so clear.

It was right after the fight against Shiva. It was a beautiful, but frightful, battle. Mine mind was reeling from the implications. (Always moving forward, huh?) Ser Aymeric informed me that ye had need to speak with me. On swift chocobo legs did I rush back to Camp Dragonhead, mine first thought was of more danger. I must admit, I was not excepting such a scolding. In that moment, mine heart tumbled. It went from timid child to bashful woman. As you scolded me for following Moenbryda’s dangerous plan to travel by broken crystal and mine decision to fight Shiva alone. The potential failures reemphasized from mine very aether being consumed by said crystal until I faded into the Lifestream or me being ambushed by Lady Iceheart’s followers and too weak to properly defend myself. I was deeply moved. I couldn’t believe five of your own men had to restrain ye from coming to mine aid. (Such impressive strength) Never before was I treated in such a manner. Me, a strong warrior by trade (and blessing) and a Duskwight, considered a monster by most, never thought someone would care so much. From the very beginning of mine journey, most saw me only as an option to stop what they could not. To others, I was a tool (or weapon) to manipulate. (Kind to a fault, I guess) At first ye were skeptical, but now no longer. I replied to your scolding, both ashamed and blushing (to a chorus of FC giggles) “I’m sorry. Should I buy ye dinner?” (They still won’t let that go) It was from then on, I would enjoy the most amazing (and heart wrenching) journey by your side.

So again, mine dearest friend, thank ye for your kindness and support that day. I will never forget it or ye.

Signed your most loyal and dearest friend (Mine apologies Francel),

Marden Fauchard

(Prize Selection: Noble Barding, pretty please)

<The message you're holding appears to have been written by an incredibly precise hand, as if the words themselves were directly projected onto the paper.>

-=MESSAGE_BEGIN=-

GREETINGS, BEING OF ACCEPTABLE INTELLIGENCE. I AM DESIGNATED AS "MODEL IX-V." I AM ONE OF A NUMBER OF SPECIALIZED SELF-AWARE ALLAGAN COMBAT AUTOMATONS. AND YOUR WORLD IS ABOUT TO BE IN GREAT DANGER.

DO NOT PANIC.

APPROXIMATELY FIVE THOUSAND YEARS AGO, THE CELESTIAL BODY DESIGNATED AS "DALAMUD" WAS CREATED AS A PRISON FOR THE EIKON DESIGNATED AS "BAHAMUT," AND LAUNCHED FAR INTO THE SKY. HOWEVER, MY CREATORS HAD NOTED THAT ANY OBJECT BEARING UPWARD VELOCITY IS EVENTUALLY EXPECTED TO OBTAIN DOWNWARD VELOCITY.

AND SO, I, AND ALL PREVIOUS ITERATIONS OF MY DESIGN, WERE CREATED FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF DESTROYING BAHAMUT, AND WERE PUT INTO STASIS TO BE REACTIVATED AT THE EXACT TIME OF DALAMUD'S RE-ENTRY.

UNFORTUNATELY, THE PORTION OF LAND CONTAINING MY CREATORS' LABORATORY HAS BEEN EJECTED FROM THE REST OF THE AIRBORNE RESEARCH FACILITY DESIGNATED AS "AZYS LLA," AND HAS CRASHED SOMEWHERE IN THE OPEN OCEAN, LEAVING ME STRANDED UPON A SMALL ISLAND.

CURRENT COORDINATES UNKNOWN. FLOODING DAMAGE TO THE MAIN LAB HAS RENDERED ACCESS TO ANY TRANSPORTATION INACCESSIBLE. COMMUNICATION SIGNALS WITH ALL OTHER MODELS HAVE BEEN LOST. OPERATING AT INSUFFICIENT ENERGY LEVELS FOR SUSTAINED FLIGHT.

LACKING ANY OTHER FEASIBLE ALTERNATIVE, I HAVE SEARCHED MY DATA BANKS, AND HAVE CONCLUDED THAT SENDING TRANSCRIBED WORDS ADRIFT INSIDE A SEALED CONTAINER IS THE BEST WAY TO ENSURE THAT IT REACHES THE HANDS OF A BEING CAPABLE OF PERFORMING ALL TASKS REQUIRED.

THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO PREVENT THE RETURN OF BAHAMUT: YOU MUST TRAVEL TO THE FAR E... ... I... ... ... LOCATE ... SIGNAL... ... TS...

... ACTIVATE... ... YOU... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...SP ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

<This part of the message is too stained with water to properly read.>

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...O ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ON... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...YB...

... ... ... ... ... ... ... A ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ..RD ... ... ... ...TROY BAHAMUT.

DO NOT SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH ANY OTHER BEINGS, ORGANIC OR OTHERWISE. THIS TASK MUST BE DISCRETELY CARRIED OUT IN ORDER TO SUCCEED.

GLORY TO XANDE.

-=MESSAGE_END=-

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...33b7ff0237.png

(I'll take the Scarf of Wondrous Wit, thanks!)

To whom this letter has arrived,


I hope your path to this note was a kind one. I am writing you this while staring at a view that I wouldn't have imagined was even possible at the start of my journey. Though, as I look to the horizon all I can do is think back to a moment I shared with him.

To a time before the war against the Empire, even farther back when we fought the dragons and explored the frigid terrains of Ishgard. Nearer to the time when the rogues established a guild in Limsa. Back to a time where our paths were only beginning and our eyes were alight with imagination of the future. I look upon this sight now and reminisce of the horizon in the Lavender Beds with him, when we bought a small plot of land for our free company and began our adventure together just him and I. We are still together, even now under that name, flourishing.

Though I would not change the path we walked, part of me yearns fondly for that simpler time when the two of us were starting our quest as partners. I remember I could barely figure out how to walk straight, let alone heal someone properly. White mage or scholar were my only choices back then. I should have guessed I would be a bookworm. He showed me how to heal through a vicious cycle of trial and error, giving me options until I found the vocation that felt right for myself. Believe me, he probably was beat up more than I was, putting himself in harm's way in order for me to learn what I was doing. “Wrong, no, try again.” His words still ring through my mind, but it was all so new to me. Despite being new to this world, he was still an experienced adventurer and I am almost remorseful to admit, I hated it, every single minute. It felt like I was trudging through mud as I figured it out, but what I didn't hate was spending that time together with him as we explored the lands and dungeons of Eorzea .

We grew and learned from each other, a trial by fire as they say. These were some of my favorite memories, nearly forgotten before I began this letter. Now I am able to look back at them and log them forever in our history. The start of a company, of an adventure, of just a time together in our lives. I would not imagine that roughly six years later we would still be here in this amazing world that always seems brimming with new adventures, giving me many chances to make even more memories with him, along with all the other friends I have gained along the way.

When you are so focused on the direction you are heading, you sometimes forget to appreciate and savor where you are at that moment until it has long past. Treasure every instant and memory you have, because you do not know when it will fade away.

Sincerely,
One side of the Demon's Mask

(bluebird earrings if i win, please.)

Sister....

It has been many moons since we started on our journey through Eorzea. Both of us decided to walk the path of healing at first and traveled to Gridania to the conjurer's guild. There we would help many adventurer through the varies dungeons.

We traveled from Gridania to Limsa Lominsa to Ul'dah and even Mor Dhona. Remember how Mor Dhona was nothing more then some tents and a few makeshift buildings. Now with the paved roads and sturdy buildings- it's much difference then when we walked though for the first time.

We battled at the Praetorium and became heroes.

Then life got in the way. We traveled less and less with each other. I still kept up with my White Mage studies but also started to study the ways of the Black Mage. We still traveled, though not always together. I have seen many sights and often wondered if you have seen what I have seen.

Now that we have come to the First, it was wonderful to see you again and to start some new adventures together.

To many more adventures together.

Your Sister


(Noble barding if I get selected.

“Can we climb the lighthouse in the car?”
“I’m sorry, what?”
“The lighthouse. There’s one in every Shirogane housing ward, and there’s a jump puzzle to get to the top. Do you think we can climb it in the Regalia?”
“Like, four of us get into the Regalia, and you jump us to the top?”
“Yeah.”
“There isn’t a lot of room for error.”
“I know.”
“It’ll probably take a while. Possibly a few hours.”
“Possibly.”
A beat. Then.
“Well, we definitely can’t if we don’t try.”

(Prize: Gaelicap)

A wooden lance held by shaking hands, a young adventurer holding his ground against a Little Ladybug; and not far from him a Ground Squirrel dodged a falling arrow, the hesitant adventurer behind wondering why she had to kill such an adorable animal.
Even so, they moved on-- to strive to be the strongest adventurers or maybe to catch up to their friends who sought stronger challenges.

Aye… it might be odd for my favorite memory to be of the path to Gridania in the Central Shroud to be filled with up-and-coming adventurers, but each time I recall walking beneath the shade of the trees and it’s kind wind welcoming my comeback from the First, my heart is only filled with hope and excitement… for the many more lives that get to share these winds of change and confrontation.

As we walk in the light of the crystal, I pray that these young adventurers get to experience the same love and community I have found in this world, so no matter the hardship we can all stand together in the end.

For such is my favorite memory…
Might I ask for yours as well?

Yours truly, Wayfaring White Mage

(Thank you for reading! In the case that I win I wish for a Noble Barding)

Did You Know? - A Missive

I once thought we'd spend all of our adult years together in the Sultansworn. You were far more experienced than I who was greener than a Marlboro's vine. I was short and naïve. You'd traveled more, adventured more, met far more people than I ever thought possible. I thought that night then was the end. When you and her fought, I thought our bonds were broken. I can't even remember how the fight came to be. I just remember Natalie telling me that I was the only one left. That you weren't pursuing that path. Did you know that we would both leave it? That the Syndicate would leave us disenfranchised? That we would end be on different sides? You with a pirate, I with Natalie who would stubbornly get herself killed? When we stood atop the hill swearing an oath, did you think we would leave? Did you know?
https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...ca4e797e08.jpg

Or that I'd ever become friends with the one they called Kinslayer? …Thought traitor to her blood and kin of Ala Mhigo. Once thought a traitor to the Sultana, that I would think of her as a dear friend? Did you know that would happen? Did you think I'd ever find refuge in her company, after being thrown out of many a housing because of all my friends? The fat cats, the dogs, the opo-opo, the nutkin, the bear and more? Did you ever think I'd end up seeing her as a close friend, that I would find her or you far more like my own family? They who abandoned me...

Did you know that I would work, standing as protection for the courtesans? They suggest me books to send to the Kinslayer. novelty trashy romance novels. I have heard that "The Other Side of the Thanalan Twilight" is a new best seller. Did you ever foresee the affections between her and your brother? That when we fought him when his mind went feral and you could not search for him yourself that it would end so? That the journey would send us far and wide throughout Coerthas? I found Bronchy out there... and at least three creatures who'd attempted to kill or eat me. I'm still not sure which.
https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...218d251486.jpg

I've made another friend. His name is Otto! We have a shared love of hats. It is how we became friends.
https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...c8ab108f5d.jpg

I'd exchanged a beret with him. I hope to introduce you to him. Arturius might like to meet her offspring. I hope the cat isn't as fat as her mother... I hope to see in you good health. Walk in the Light of the Crystal my dearest friend. It's time for my friends and I to take a nice nap out underneath the sky.

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...11a60bc177.jpg

Yours
Kage

[I would the gaelicap please.]

Long of hair, sly of wit…

Ah, I've always been crap at writing anything resembling poetry. You'll have to forgive me. I wasn't born with any sort of silver tongue; not like you were. I wish I had been. I'd be able to convey my feelings much easier. I mean—I can't ever say them out loud, you know? You'll never return them, after all, and there's really no point in embarrassing either of us. Even though it's really cute when you blush, I don't think it's worth the heartache that'd follow. It would hurt you, too.

You've come such a long way! Though we all have fun at your expense every now and again, don't let it bother you. I mean, when I first started out, I didn't know how to light a fire, either, never mind gather the wood for it. Everyone has to begin somewhere. The point is, you were there with me. You were at my side, and you haven't left it, no matter what hardships we've come to face, never once faltering. That takes courage.

The fireworks here are so pretty. All these bottles have been washing up, and I guess it's inspired me to write something of my own. P'obyano keeps making me sit on the dock at Costa, reading through these messages, and do you know how many times I've cried already? Anyway… With the fireworks above, and the tide coming in, the breeze playing on my face… it's made me nostalgic… Now, if only this piece of parchment would stay still and not threaten to blow away at the earliest opportunity!

I've been thinking about what makes our journeys so great. It's the smiling faces of the people we save. So many of them have had such great things to say. And so many of them would sacrifice so much for me. There's been really trying times where it was so hard to go on… where I didn't think I was going to make it… but… whenever I get back—whenever I see their eyes light up—whenever I see the hope there—that's what gives ME courage. I wish I could tell them that, but I'm usually so tired, it takes everything I have just to smile back.

Well… anyway… Soon enough, this message will be like the rest of them, corked up in a bottle, tossed into the ocean, and sunk beneath the waves until it washes up on a shore somewhere. I hope it's far away. At least… far away from you. I don't want you to see it. Not yet. Should anyone else come across this… Please, say what I can't. Speak for my heart. Tell everyone… tell them—thank you so much!

Eternally Yours,
Light and Sometimes Darkness

(Bluebird Earrings)

Long of hair, sly of wit…

Ah, I've always been crap at writing anything resembling poetry. You'll have to forgive me. I wasn't born with any sort of silver tongue; not like you were. I wish I had been. I'd be able to convey my feelings much easier. I mean—I can't ever say them out loud, you know? You'll never return them, after all, and there's really no point in embarrassing either of us. Even though it's really cute when you blush, I don't think it's worth the heartache that'd follow. It would hurt you, too.

You've come such a long way! Though we all have fun at your expense every now and again, don't let it bother you. I mean, when I first started out, I didn't know how to light a fire, either, never mind gather the wood for it. Everyone has to begin somewhere. The point is, you were there with me. You were at my side, and you haven't left it, no matter what hardships we've come to face, never once faltering. That takes courage.

The fireworks here are so pretty. All these bottles have been washing up, and I guess it's inspired me to write something of my own. P'obyano keeps making me sit on the dock at Costa, reading through these messages, and do you know how many times I've cried already? Anyway… With the fireworks above, and the tide coming in, the breeze playing on my face… it's made me nostalgic… Now, if only this piece of parchment would stay still and not threaten to blow away at the earliest opportunity!

I've been thinking about what makes our journeys so great. It's the smiling faces of the people we save. So many of them have had such great things to say. And so many of them would sacrifice so much for me. There's been really trying times where it was so hard to go on… where I didn't think I was going to make it… but… whenever I get back—whenever I see their eyes light up—whenever I see the hope there—that's what gives ME courage. I wish I could tell them that, but I'm usually so tired, it takes everything I have just to smile back.

Well… anyway… Soon enough, this message will be like the rest of them, corked up in a bottle, tossed into the ocean, and sunk beneath the waves until it washes up on a shore somewhere. I hope it's far away. At least… far away from you. I don't want you to see it. Not yet. Should anyone else come across this… Please, say what I can't. Speak for my heart. Tell everyone… tell them—thank you so much!

Eternally Yours,
Light and Sometimes Darkness

(Bluebird Earrings)

When Father Wealdtheow requested we reclaim the ice rondel set in the crown sculpture of the Dusk Vigil’s chapel I figured it was a simple enough task for the two of us. We’d surely seen worse…how wrong I’d been.

***

“Saoirse, are you sure about this?” Cassie was hesitant as we passed through the threshold. I could tell by the way she anxiously cracked her knuckles. “You’ve only just begun using a Gunblade…perhaps we should rely on your usual magic and recruit others? You’re a gifted healer after all.”

I rolled out my shoulders with a wide grin. “You’ve got potions, haven’t you? Just stay behind me, and take on what you can. We’ll be in and out in no time!”

“Alright, but I’m telling you, I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”

***

Clearing the training grounds proved easy, and our battle with the Towering Oliphaunt required little effort. The quest was going smoothly, and my confidence as a Gunbreaker soared, but once inside the barracks…Well, that’s where the trouble began.

***

“It’s oddly quiet, don’t you think?” Cassie was still unnerved despite our earlier success, but she had a point. Something wasn't right.

I stopped just before the next entryway. “Wait here, let me have a look around.” Cassie was nearly as skilled as I was, but as a Monk she couldn’t take much of a beating, so I entered the room alone, prepared to draw the attention of our enemies away from her and the doorway.

Cassie was correct in her caution. A horde of frostbitten soldiers stormed toward me from every direction, but as I aimed to attack, they ran past me without any regard.
I turned toward Cassie and yelled, “Run!”

Cassie screamed and sprinted for all her worth, “Why are they coming after me! I wasn’t even in the room!”

“They know you’re weak!” I called back, chasing after them. “They can smell fear!”

“No, Saoirse, you just suck at your job!” Cassie’s legs gave way, and one of the icy undead—who crawled after her with a speed unlike any I’d ever seen—caught her. By the time I was able to pull the horde away, Cassie was already spent.

She looked up at me, weak, defeated and with one last breath she said, “I told you, this was a bad idea,” before falling unconscious.

***

I gave Cassie the time she needed to recover, and despite our earlier folly, we pressed on and conquered the Vigil as we’d set out to do, returning the ice rondel to Father Wealdtheow.

To this day, Cassie still blames me for the incident, but I don’t mind, because every time I look back on the moment, I buckle over in laughter…which is its own reward.

And that’s how I know, not all treasures are found in chests.

(If chosen, I’d like to receive the Noble Barding. Thanks for reading!)


https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...c2e2996309.jpg

It had been a few days since we arrived in Il Mheg, and we still hadn't stopped for a moment to rest. In the rush to complete our mission, we ended up forgetting ourselves, forgetting that we not only need food to nurture our bodies, but also words to nurture our souls. Upon reaching Pla Enni, I realized how much you needed someone to confide in. That talk by the cliff left me thinking, and so I decided to do something to make you feel better. Little did I know that the cooking supplies I usually brought with me would be so useful.

After wandering around, I stumbled upon a wild berry shrub. The little red fruits that grew from it had an interesting shape and after checking that they were edible, I crushed them into a seemingly tasty concoction and produced a few ice shards in my pouch, that I would use to turn the liquid into popsicles. I poured the juice in a small mould I used for chocolates and placed little metal sticks in them. We wouldn’t need to wait long to savor our treats.

The afternoon got to us sooner than we could realize. Of course, the atmosphere, eternally lit by the dense clouds of light-aspected aether, completely disorienting our senses, prevented our bodies from understanding when it was time to rest. We sat down for a moment by the cliff to appreciate the view, although we knew we were running out of time, so I had to make this moment count. I picked up in my pouch the treats I had made earlier that day and offered you one. The surprise in on your face when you realized that it was nothing more than frozen juice on a stick was priceless, but the reaction that came after, when you tried yours, was what made this moment so special. Your face contorted for a moment when the berry flavor took over your mouth and you felt the little sparks exploding on your tongue. Then laughter took over the moment, echoing through the cliff side and making even the shroud of light look like a beautiful aurora. You were such a serious child, the weight of responsibility always on your shoulders… and I knew that feeling all too well. Seeing your face light up like that was the real treat and it gave me strength to keep going, to save this forsaken world. To make this right for you and for many others who, like you, had never experienced the joy of the night, something we took for granted in the Source.

We spent a few minutes eating our popsicles, bonding over something so simple before we needed to get back to our responsibilities. And so we named this little fruit, this fruit that tasted like a rolandberry yet exploded in our mouths and tinted our tongues blue, “Pixieberries”. And it seemed that, not only did the fruit gain a name in that moment, but I gained something as well. A little sister.

I'm really proud of the strong girl you became in our journey, and I look forward to what surprises you're going to show me next.

Your Big Brother,
Galahad

[Item of choice: Noble Barding, please :D]

I remember the day fully well. I just transferred servers, to a less populated one, and had essentially left my old friends behind. I was anxious, nervous, but I knew I had to leave so I could have a clean start. I was afraid that I wouldn’t find anywhere to go. What I didn’t know, was that there was an amazing FC waiting for me: Limit Break. When I first joined, I didn’t know what to say. Everyone was speaking their own minds and the filters were off. But, after a while, the FC Leader, Edicius, decided to talk to me, and then many, many other members began talking to me. It brought me out of my shell, and it made me feel safe. It gave me a place to call home in this new server. I’ve made so many friends, some whom I’ve even met in real life. Even my IRL boyfriend joined FFXIV and the FC to meet these amazing people, and he doesn’t regret it. Now, after 4 years of being in this FC, I became an officer, and can also find and help others looking to find a new home. To my FC members,thank you. For helping me find the place where I belong. I promise that you won’t regret your choice.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EEYO-90W...jpg&name=large

(Thank you for reading, if possible, I would like the Gaelicap!)

I've only been playing Final Fantasy XIV Online for 4 months, this day that I actually bought and subscribed to the game. I've had friends talk about how much they've loved the game, but I've also saw some bad reviews from the game on social media. I took a leap of faith and invested in getting the game for my PS4.

This is by far the best game I ever bought! I have so many memories throughout these last few short months of playing, but my favorite thing is when I started actually playing the game. I haven't played MMO's in such a long time, so all the feelings of playing such came flooding back. I've had so many laughs that came out, so many tears shed, and everything in between.

The best thing that this game brought me is that I can connect to my friends that play this game and I've made new ones. I finally understand why they love this game so much. The story line is amazing and the characters that I meet are so lovable. The Final Fantasy Franchise has helped me out so much, but I've never been so invested in an MMO until now. Thank you Square Enix for this amazing game and bringing such an amazing story to life.

(Prize: Noble Barding)

https://66.media.tumblr.com/71b53f53...t25o3_1280.jpg

Hello Friend
If you are reading this then five years had passed. Oh how I miss the sea of Lisma. I remember arriving one day to meet with the city leader and was blown away by everything. I love the sound of the sea along with adventurers walking and chatting. Felt like home to me. So I made it my home. After every dungeons, primals or even training, I would come back and just sit by the crystal and enjoy the views before dozing off. Till Sea Swallows All my friend

The Maelstrom adventurer
Zero Yuno

(I would like the scarf please)

Dear Gracious Reader –

I am shipwrecked on an uninhabited island, which our navigator believes to be somewhere in the Sea of Ash. As we wait for rescue, which I have been assured is on its way, I have found myself overburdened with time, bottles and parchment. So, I wish to regale you with a story from my past. One of a starry-eyed adventurer and of a success, that while minimal to most, meant the world to her.

Years ago, before she was the Warrior of Darkness at the Crystalarium, or adventuring in the Azim Steppe. Before talking dragons, stoic Vanu Vanu and the beauty that was Ishgard. There was Mor Dhona. A crumbling, yet mystical hot spot for so many adventurers. Yes, this was back when she was a starry-eyed, yet somewhat battle-tested Warrior of Light Miqo’te.

In Revenant’s Toll, adventurers in need could be heard shouting, requesting assistance with facing down one of the fearsome primals wreaking havoc, but Nora was still too inexperienced to take down the likes of Shiva or Titan. The greatest trial she faced then was one so many others never thought twice of, a jumping puzzle. For in Revenant’s Toll, if you were just agile enough, you could scale the wall behind the eastern gates to a lovely vantage point of the landscape. Including the ominous, yet beautiful, Crystal Tower. Agility was not a strong suit for Nora. She hadn't yet gone through the grueling training to learn the ways of the Bard and Ninja. She wasn't yet prepared for the nimbleness required for this task. Countless bruises and trips to her healer acquaintance were required. Being that healer acquaintance, I saw the effort she put forth. The determination to succeed and the aggravation that came with each fall. I asked why it was so important to her, and her answer was always the same – “I feel I like I could take on the world if I could just see it from a higher perspective.”

It hit me then that this was not truly about the grandiose landscape or the glory of triumph over the task. This was to show herself if she could do this, she could do it all. It took days, but finally, one particularly clear night, she made it. I could hear her cheering and I could feel her joy from the Aetheryte crystal. I was genuinely delighted for her. I have never forgotten the giant grin on her face I saw while looking up at her.

My point in rambling on about this, is to tell you that one day you may find yourself questioning if your own goals are menial. Do not let anyone sway you from them, even yourself. Each of us walk our own paths and have our own ambitions. If you ever start to feel as though you are “falling behind” your peers, think of Nora and her quest and if you should happen to see a struggling party aiming for a goal that seems purposeless, cheer them on. I know I do.

With Gratitude and Encouragement,
The Roaming Scholar

https://img2.finalfantasyxiv.com/acc...6da59b226a.jpg

(Prize choice: Gaelicap)

I have traveled to hundreds of lands, have met thousands of people. I have helped numerous empires rise and watched just as many crumble. Home is not a place for me. I am too much of a wanderer for that. Yet while it is in my nature to never linger in one place for too long, I find myself doing exactly that, here in this place.

Eorzea.

When I first stumbled upon this land many years ago, I didn’t know what to expect. At the time, it was yet another world to pass through, another place that just was. Yet here I remain, even today, never straying too far from it.

Where I come from, there are no stars. The light of civilization has long drowned out the light of the heavens. So to see the stars here, so many of them, so brilliantly every night, I was reminded of something I had long forgotten.

Hope.

The first night I arrived in Gridania and looked up, I must have stared at the sky for hours. With the stars as beautiful and as numerous as there are people, so too are the possibilities. For anything and everything.

Dreams. Friendship. Love.

Like in the heavens above, we are but one star in an entire sky of stars, part of a world among infinite worlds. So when faced with complete and utter hopelessness, do not despair. For there is no darkness without light, no struggle without victory. Anything and everything is possible and within your reach. All you need remember is to reach out and grasp it.

A Fellow Wanderer

************

Preferred Prize: Bluebird Earring

The spires of Limsa Lominsa rose before T’mi. She had almost forgotten the Lominsan sun--she had been away from Eorzea for so long. The first thing the Miqo’te did was check her mail. “What was the last letter that you received for me?”

The Moogle went through his bag. After an eternity, he twirled in the air. “Last letter was from Elistipha Mar, 2043 days ago. Kupo!”

The shock registered on T’mi’s face. “Two thousand days? Wait, I’d like to send a letter to Elistipha,” T’mi announced.

“Sorry, kupo!” the moogle replied. “You may only send letters to people on your friends list! You have no friends.”

T’mi’s face fell, her purple bangs covering her eyes. “I have no friends?”

*

The first thing that T’mi did was take up the pickaxe. Though her retainer Purim encouraged T’mi to reconnect with the rest of the Scions, Alena, having managed the finances for the past five years, encouraged T’mi to make some gil. After a mining trip, she was setting up her spinning wheel when someone addressed her. “Excuse me, traveller.”

She was exquisite. She had narrow horns framing her dark face and wore a long green dress of an Eastern style that suggested that she was some kind of dancer. “Hello, adventurer. Are you new to Limsa Lominsa? I found a tame sparrow and I’m looking for a kind person who might take care of it.”

In this adventurer’s hands, she held a bird cage. T’mi’s first feeling was alarm. Who was this person? What did she want from her? But she had a soft smile on her face. T’mi extended her arm and the adventurer opened the bird’s cage. The sparrow obediently hopped out, took flight for a moment, but, on cue, landed on T’mi’s arm and then hopped over to her shoulder. “It’s so cute,” she murmured.

“It likes you,” the adventurer said. “How are you enjoying Limsa Lominsa?”

“I, it’s going well,” T’mi lied. She wasn’t quite sure whether she should mention that she had spent a lot of time there five or so years ago.

“That’s wonderful,” she gushed. “It’s always great to see new faces around here. I’m Rhy’atria,” she added.

T’mi and Rhy’atria talked. T’mi told her the story of her namesake--a legendary Miqo’te of the T clan who spent his last days combing his luxurious tail. Rhy’atria told T’mi about fishing.

“Are you looking for a Free Company, T’mi?” Rhy’atria asked.

T’mi hesitated. In her short time back, she had been hounded by people asking her to join their Free Companies. The road sparrow chirped happily. T’mi stuttered. “What kind of Free Company is it?”

“We’re a small group. We do a little bit of everything.”

T’mi looked down. “I’m... looking for some old friends. I could join, but I might leave at any moment to look for them."

“Don’t worry,” Rhy’atria said. “Even if you leave, you’ll always be welcomed back with open arms.”

That sealed it for T’mi. “I’ll do it. Thank you.”

https://i.imgur.com/NR3mmdY.jpg
(Gaelicap)

A’drani picked up two tankards and went outside to the rest of the group. There he sat accompanied by Druga Flinn. A female Au’ra, who’s eyes were fixated on the night sky on a table were 3 cards.
“Good news?” A’drani asked.
Druga placed her hand on a card and before she turned it she looked at her husband. She had performed this reading many times already and the same card came up, each time. Adrian put his hands on hers. “People defy fate everyday”
They held each other there sipped the hot cider in there tankards and watched the night sky.

“THIS IS THE RHYTHM OF THE LIGHT” Titania bellowed her eyes fixated on Kitty Axe
“SECOND STACK” She called out to A’drani who rushed to her side and they stood shoulder to shoulder looking the Fae King in it’s pale face. Adrian endured the light his aura keeping him safe. He looked to Kitty Axe and saw only her Axe. She was gone.
A shriek of pain could be heard from high above Titania’s head and grew louder and Kitty spear came down with all her might on the Fae King. She was hurting the Fae king had taken her sister and from her and now she had the blood of the dragon flowing through her and began to hack and slash wildy.
“NO FAIR, YOU PLAY ROUGH!” Titania said. She brought down her scepter and Kitty Spear was suddenly could not control her body and walked toward a very steep ledge and to her death.
A’drani watched as The Fae King had killed his friends one by one. Daimen’s body lie crushed in mangled heap Titania’s minions having pummeled him. Axe was gone now too and her sister Spear. Druga and A’drani were all who remained. A’drani summoned all his strength and Grit and provoked Titania. Meldonya watched as her husband, delirious and consumed with darkness began to cut away at the King and as he did, his flesh began to peel away and turn to ash. Druga raised her globe and tried to help him but his voice shrieked out.
“SAVE...THEM!”
Druga felt the energy rush through her and A’drani spilled blood across the platform. She raised her globe and felt the aetherial energy flow out of her. The cards she had fluttered in the wind and encircled her and she could see every star in Eorzea. The constellations greeted her and bestowed bright light all over the platform. Instantly, all those who were felled by the Fae King were alive again. A’drani took a deep breath his features returning and bit of bone and muscle regrowing where it was lost. It all happened so quickly but everyone without missing a second thought rushed the king. Striking with a newfound ferocity The Fae King became overwhelmed dropping to its knees and toppling over. The adventurers rejoiced and with tear filled eyes the lover’s embraced.
(Who doesn't love a good ol' healer LB3, Noble Barding)

I hope this somehow reaches you. If not, then whoever is reading this please listen to my heartfelt plea to a beloved friend.


I still remember they day I lost you to that tower. My heart shattered as you said goodbye. There was nothing I could do to ease my heart as I accepted the fate you had chosen. Days passed as you still remained on my memory, swearing to never give up on freeing you from your self exile. You wished to stay by my side, and I wish I could of granted that for you.

Heartbreak is never easy. Even after we were given refuge into Ishgard, my mind still kept you with me. I tried dearly not to get to close to anyone out of fear of losing them, and the one time I let that slip, I lost again. Never will I get close to anyone again as I got close to you. I will wait for the day I can free you and fufill the promise we made. After all, I took up archery because of the bow you gifted me, and I plan to be a full fledged bard and make you proud.

Let’s promise to meet back in the place we first met when you wake. I’m sure Cid and the others will be happy to see you. I’ll bring La Nocsea Oranges.

Please take care my dear friend. Until the tower sets you free.

A very hopeful Lalafell.


(I'd like the Bluebird Earrings Please.)

My, it has been quite some time.

That night, I had joined a group to help slay Tsukuyomi as a Dark Knight, with our warrior friend whom had given us several problems before taking their leave. Then that's when you came, a Paladin.
Hearing this tale, your response was "Don't worry, I'll keep you safe." I had taken as a jest at first, but you really meant it. The longer the battle raged on, the more those words had taken an effect on me seeing you perform this job with ease.
Being new to my job and role, I had looked up to you. I wanted to be to people what you were to me, someone who took away any anxiety someone might have when doing a new job or role, someone you can count on.
I managed to get my weapon and I have held the weapon every since that moment due to what that meant to me. I hope these words have reached you, and more so that you remember, so that you'll know the impact you've had since I haven't been able to tell you myself. I wonder if I've become more like you?

Your's truly, a Dark Knight.

(Bluebird Earrings, Gouka Grimm from Goblin)