I havent even beaten turn 5 on any of my jobs or Titan Extreme. While I do want to progress I do miss the, as you say dunes banter. It was a major part of FFXI I liked. The real community, not just people seeking raiding... while I understand its part of the game, I kind of miss that 8hr lfg sitting at an outpost getting to know people. Its how shit got done and people connected.

D: hit me up in game anytime.