RPC Library - User contributions [en]

Gerik Aston

2013-08-01T22:14:27Z

Gerik: /* Appearance */

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{{Infobox-character
| name = Gerik Brynn Aston
| image = Gerikava300.png
| imagewidth = 300
| caption =
| title = The Zephyr
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = Menphina, the Lover
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 26
| stat_3 = Nameday
| stat_3_value = 26th Sun of the 6th Astral Moon
| stat_4 = Occupation
| stat_4_value = Beekeeper
| stat_5 = Server
| stat_5_value = Balmung
}}

== '''''General''''' ==

''Gerik is a laid-back, charismatic highlander and can usually be seen with a smile on his face. He tries hard to avoid as much responsibility as possible (save for those causes he deems worth fighting for), not because he’s lazy, per se, he just wants to feel like he has the freedom to do what he wants, when he wants. Feeling his bare feet in the grass or the cool breeze that blows through the Twelveswood are some of his greatest pleasures.''

== '''''Appearance''''' ==

[[File:GerikRedClothes400.png|right|]]

'''''Height:'''''

:6 fulms, 5 ilms - he is a bit taller than most Highlanders. 

'''''Weight:'''''

:243 ponz – Gerik is a bit bulky in terms of muscle. He attributes his physique to good genes as he doesn't really do anything consciously to retain or build muscle. 

'''''Body:'''''

:Gerik is well-built and defined having somewhat of a gymnast's build. Having worked for a short time at the Greatloam Growery in [[Gridania]] assisted in the development of muscle as well as his normal ability to retain his physique. He thinks his best attributes are probably his chest and arms. 

'''''Complexion:'''''

:Tanned, bronzed skin covers Gerik's body. He used to have a few scars, but since he's been cohabiting with Deirdre she's returned his skin to its original condition. He has a symmetrical tattoo on his face, a simple design comprised of six white lines. 

'''''Hair:'''''

:Gerik normally crops his hair very close to the scalp. He's considered growing it out however he generally doesn't like when his hair grows long enough to touch his ears. If he let it grow out, its natural color would be one of a darker burgundy or maroon. A moderate amount of stubble grows on his jawline, normally Gerik doesn't bother to trim it everyday, opting to trim it once every three days or so. Starting at his belly button, Gerik has a light dusting of hair that leads down to his genital region, sometimes he shaves it off, other times not. 

'''''Fashion:'''''

:Shirtless is the way to go for Gerik. He finds that it provides the most freedom in terms of everyday activities, and he also likes to feel the breeze around him. However in situations where a shirt of some sort is necessary, he'll tend to use some sort of lightweight, breathable fabric. He also has a set of clothing for more formal events, he thinks that the wedge cap from the set makes him looks less intimidating. In downtime alone, Gerik can be seen in normally just his underwear, or a set of pants and shoes. 

== '''''Personality''''' ==

Due to Gerik's odd upbringing, he still remains a child at heart. More than anything he wants to be liked and to have people he can trust and rely on. He's very social and trusts people very easily due to this, however at the same time he's also afraid to let people get too close for the fear of others hurting him. Others might perceive him as being gullible and a bit slow and they'd probably be right. He never had a 'good' education, so in that regard he's not quite so bright. During his time spent at Gridania he's learned a little about how to cultivate plants, which plants have medicinal properties to them, and which plants are safe to eat, in addition to a bunch of other assorted knowledge about plants and creatures within the forest. Many would describe Gerik as 'lucky', sometimes things happen to him with little to no effort on his part, or he gets something accomplished in a very unorthodox manner.

Despite him not being a 'Forestborn,' he thinks he's earned the trust of the local Gridanians enough for them to treat him as one. He's spent a lot of his time in the Twelveswood, even going as far as to camp in the canopies of the trees at night. When on these extended camping trips he usually spends most of his time napping, or observing the happenings within the forest, his employers are generally not pleased as he may not come in to work for a few days or more. His favorite haunt is the White Willow near Camp Emerald Moss.

'''''Family''''': 
Gerik's mother and father were trading merchants, often travelling between every city-state. His surname, Aston, comes from his mother's maiden name and its midlander origins come from the words "East", and "tun", or the settlement to the east of a main village near the ash trees. Eirika, Gerik's mother, was daughter to a former Ala Mhigan noble house. His father, Ganun, was a commoner, and as such, Eirika was never quite satisfied being married to him. Their son, Gerik is 3/4 Highlander and 1/4 Midlander (from his mother's side).

'''''Personality Traits:'''''

*Charismatic

*Hedonistic

*Absent-Minded

*Clumsy

*Slothful

*Athletic

*Trusting

*Jovial

*Messy

*Warm

*Slow-Witted

*Lucky

[[File:GerikAVA.png|right]]

'''''Talents:'''''

*Socialization

*Wilderness Survival

*Singing (Singing voice is based off John Martin, please ignore the electronic background music [http://youtu.be/RLaSjeCFnlE] [http://youtu.be/-yg3dLEDWqs] [http://youtu.be/-bt94yKsKHQ])

*Sketching 

*Tracking/Hunting 

*Stealth 

 

'''''Likes:''''' 

*The Twelveswood

*Riding Airships

*Freedom

*Gossip

*Fireworks 

'''''Favorite Food:''''' 

*Raw Oyster

'''''Favorite Color:''''' 

*A bit undecided, definitely either blue or green though.

'''''Favorite Creature:'''''

*Apkallus

 

'''''Dislikes:''''' 

*Snooty condescending people

*The Ul’dahan “gil makes the world go round” mentality

*People who disrespect the Twelveswood

*Being used

*Books and Reading

 

'''''Fears:''''' 

*Feeling obligated to a lot of responsibility

*Becoming incapacitated, or otherwise less mobile 

*Losing peoples' favor 

 

----

=== '''''Demeanor:''''' ===

Gerik tends to take a flippant approach to the world, that is, everything but a few select things are not taken quite as seriously as they should be, he also comes off as an optimist. Some of his favorite pasttimes are conversing and meeting new people. His charismatic and charming nature make acquiring friends a simple task, however he’s not one to sugarcoat things, instead preferring to be blunt and openly disagree should a point he feels is wrong manifest. In fact, due to his blunt nature, sometimes inappropriate comments may be blurted out. Despite this, Gerik tries hard to be as good-natured and kindhearted as possible.

[[File:GerikLayDown2.png|right]]
 

'''''Quirks:''''' 

*Has a very large appetite, can usually be seen snacking if there is nothing more pressing to attend to, nobody really knows how he stays in shape, not even Gerik.

*Gerik is quite sloppy; he strategically packs his bag every morning, his strategy for packing is to take a bunch of stuff strewn on the floor of his room and haphazardly dump it into his bag.

*Finds Roegadyn men absolutely endearing, he entertains the idea of a cuddly Roegadyn, and likes it, '''a lot'''.

 

----

== '''''History:''''' ==

'''''Childhood''''' 

:Gerik hails from Ala Mhigo. His parents worked as traveling merchants selling and trading wares from one city-state to another. His mother sang to crowds in an effort to increase sales and forced Gerik to do the same once he was old enough.  During the time of the Garlean invasion, Gerik and his parents were in Gridania. Due to Gerik being a child at the time, they decided it would be safer for them to travel since he would be a burden and abandoned him in Gridania. There, he was raised in the Acorn Orchard with other Gridanian children. During his time growing up, he spent a lot of time in the forest basking in its beauty and enjoying the company of the creatures that are native to the Twelveswood. 

'''''Adolescency''''' 

:At the age of adolescency, Gerik decided he should find something meaningful to do with his life and repay the debt he felt he owed to Gridania, and since he's had a sizeable amount of prior experience with a bow (hunting) as well as the practice of tracking prey and remaining unseen; thus he began training more seriously in the art of archery with aspirations to become a member of the God's Quiver (he also dabbled a bit in the art of lances thinking he might be able to join the Wood Wailers, as well as conjury at the Stillglade Fane, however he dismissed these ideas once he realized he couldn't possibly attempt to join all three factions).  

'''''Adulthood''''' 

:However it was not to be; he was not accepted into the God's Quiver on reasons that are still unknown to him, instead they referred him to someone referred to as the "Godsbow." After much listening to Jehantel's songs and using them as a basis for study, he's slowly been increasing his repertoire of songs. Still, he prefers to not perform in public as he's a bit self-conscious. Gerik is currently looking into alternative ways to assist Gridania's cause due to his inability to assist the God's Quiver.  His previous employment history was that of a simple lumberjack for the Botanist's Guild in Gridania. Prior to Dalamud, he found employment with the Shimmersong mercenaries, their headquarters residing in Owl's Nest; he finds the region of Coerthas breathtaking. Presently, he volunteers at the Honey Yard and lives in Ul'dah.
 
----

'''Dreadful Cacaphony''' - 0 
<spoiler>"Ugh." A young highlander woman sighed. "Ganun it it's crying again honestly how can one get her beauty rest with that dreadful cacaphony going on." She rolled over and slapped the highlander male lying adjacent to her. "Wake up and deal with it!" Ganun grunted in defeat and rolled out of bed. He exasperatingly sighed "Yes dear." Ganun coddled the newborn all the while sporting his trademark scowl; eventually the child eased up and fell asleep. He walked back to bed and fell asleep. Morning came and he woke up to his wife Eirika coddling the newborn almost maternally, a trait he thought she never possessed; however his thought was interrupted when she screeched. "You know my womanhood will never be the same because of you the only good thing you've brought me is a larger set of breasts!" She gazed down at her ample cleavage admiring herself. She turned to face Ganun who just awoke. "Ganun darling shouldn't we name this abomination?" She gestured almost disgustingly at the infant. "Yes yes I suppose we should" Ganun replied. After a bell of deliberation, Eirika had a thought. "Ganun why not just combine our names and be done with this nonsense, all this thinking will give me wrinkles; so how does 'Gerik' sound? I think it it's just marvelous, of course it contains more of my name seeing as I'm the important one." She turned around and began to admire her cleavage again. "Yes, I suppose Gerik it is then." He smiled slightly at the newborn, quite possibly the first smile he had in years.</spoiler>

'''Fish & Desperation''' - 4 
<spoiler>"What is that dreadful smell; it smells like fish and desperation!" Eirika held her nose shut with her index finger and thumb. Ganun sighed and said slowly. "Dear we are in Limsa Lominsa trying to sell wares... right now we are in the fish market. Fish. Market." Eirika brushed her hair out of her face and stuck her nose up. "Ganun I do believe it is your turn to supervise Derrick." He sighed. "It's Gerik dear, and yes bring him to me." Ganun replied scowling at his wife. "Yeah, whatever." Eirika shrugged as she was applying more lipstick. "Zarik get over here this iiiinstant!" However the young child did not appear. Eirika cleared her throat and shrieked "Merik!" "Do you mean to tell me you lost our child?" Ganun inquired with the same scowl that was ever present on his face. She replied coolly, "frankly Ganun, I can't be held responsible, for you should have been paying more attention to him. What kind of father are you anyway?!" She adjusted her skirt in such a manner so that it would reveal more of her upper thigh. "But fine, have it your way, I'll go search for the little cretin." She discovered the toddler playing with two fish that probably fell off a cart during transport; two merchant-looking men were next to him offering him various other seafood to play with. "Hi bitch!" the young Gerik exclaimed happily. "You just called me what?!" Eirika's face turned red with anger. "tha-tha's what my new f'rends said your name was e'rlier." He gestured to the two merchants. The merchants stood up visibly embarrassed, we didn't mean it miss we apologi-.” Just then Eirika delivered a quick backhand to both of the merchants faces. She picked up young Gerik before he could crawl off anywhere else and stormed off. She looked down at the toddler and noticed he was holding a rothlyt oyster, she slapped it out of his hands. "No we do not touch anything that looks like a vagin-!" Ganun interrupted her. "Eirika I've prepared our stall. Are you ready?" "Really Ganun, do you have to ask, I was born ready." She flashes an almost sinister grin and brushes some hair out of her face. "But before we begin..." She fashioned a rope attached to the stall as a leash for the toddler and proceeded to arrange her clothes so that they were more revealing. When she was ready she began to sing. </spoiler>

'''Sweet Child''' - 7 
<spoiler>"C'mmere Gerik! Eirika said sternly. "Ok mommy!" Gerik jumped off a stool and ran to her eagerly. "Yes, such a sweet child... now drink this!" Eirika handed him a cup with a strange smelling liquid inside. Gerik looked up at her with a suspicious expression but drank from the clay cup anyway. Moments later, everything seemed to blur together and he passed out on the floor. Eirika turned around "Ganun did you get the man I asked for?" She pulled her hair into an updo. "Yes dear, I did." Ganun opened the door to let a highlander man into their inn room in gridania. "There's your payment... now go! Work! We've discussed the design already." Eirika gestured at Ganun to pay the man to which he obliged. The man pulled out tattooing supplies which he held in a bag and began tattooing the young highlander with the same tattoo his mother had on her face, its significance was unclear; however the highlander tattooist accepted tattooing as part of a highlander tradition and simply did his job and didn't ask questions. When he finished he simply bowed and took his leave. "Now we can find him later darling... I do hope that makes you feel better about this." She twisted a lock of hair around her finger. "Now let's go" Ganun nodded and replied sullenly. "Our wares are packed and are outside already." He looked down at the ground. "Oh that's simply wonderful, now carry this!" He grunted as she tossed a bag of her clothes into his arms. The two highlanders exited the gridanian inn room and left to embark on their mercantile journey to Ul'dah.</spoiler>

'''Something Naughty''' - 10 
<spoiler>Holding a roll of paper in one hand and a stick of charcoal held between his teeth, Gerik began to climb a young tree in the Twelveswood. The cool breeze felt good against his skin. It had been three years since his parents disappeared. He touched the tattoo on his face almost nostalgicly; reflecting for a moment, but just a moment because it got interrupted by him expelling the charcoal from his mouth. "What to draw today?" he thought to himself. Thoughts ran through his head of possible ideas, but he eventually settled on a fluffy marmot on the grass below. "Guess it's another marmot today." Slowly he used the charcoal to render his masterpiece. When he was done, he climbed back down and headed back to the acorn orchard. "Oh my isn't this lovely it's an uh. imperial warship, or maybe it's an uh a pair of woman's bloomers..." The orphanage worker strained to see what exactly it was that Gerik drew. She turned the paper horizontally and vertically but could make no sense of what it was. "Is that something naughty?" She pointed to a blunt looking appendage attached to an unrecognizable blob. "No ma'am, that's a tail, it's a marmot." He gave her a charcoal-covered toothy smile; in return she forced one herself and replied "Why don't you take this?" The elezen woman reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook she had been using to keep her grocery list in. "You can keep your drawings in it." Gerik reached for it excitedly. "Boy! Thanks lady!" Another charcoal-covered grin was flashed at her. She sighed and hung her head. "I've told you six times already my name is Elimine." When she raised her head again, he was already halfway to the Blue Badger Gate.</spoiler>

'''Azeyma's Candle''' - 15 
<spoiler>"The festival is here!" A teenaged roegadyn gestured happily and pointed to a large fireworks machine. A group of similarly aged orphans from the acorn orchard gathered around him. Gerik looked up in wonder at the aerial fireworks, they looked like jewels bursting into the sky. "Aderyn, wait up!" The teenaged roegadyn turned around and beckoned for Gerik to join the group. When he caught up, Aderyn put his hand around Gerik's shoulder and they proceeded to walk toward the festival grounds. The motley group of orphans pooled all the gil they could scrounge up with and bought an assortment of fireworks: some red, some yellow, and some blue. Exclamations of joy could be heard from the group. Over the course of four hours, they used up all their fireworks and decided to use the big fireworks machine set in place for the festival instead. "Wanna climb up on the oak atrium for a better view?" Gerik tugged on Aderyn's sleeve. "Sure, you have the best ideas Gerik!" The two climbed onto the roof sat together and smiled in wonder at how much closer the fireworks were. An Azeyma's candle bursted in front of the pair, exploding in a myriad of colors. Just then, Gerik's hand accidentally landed on Aderyn's while readjusting himself out of a cross-legged position. "S-sorry" Gerik was about to pull his hand off Aderyn's, but Aderyn slowly pulled his hand out from under and placed it atop Gerik's. The two made eye contact for a while and Gerik slowly went in for a kiss. Noticing gerik's advance, Aderyn also slowly moved toward the highlander. It lasted but for a few seconds, then the two sat speechless on the roof of the Oak Atrium. Gerik smiled slightly all the while. Aderyn was the first to speak "Y-y'know I'm not like that, I like girls." Gerik frowned and looked off to the side, remaining silent. Aderyn continued "I'm gonna marry a nice elezen girl one day a-and we're gonna have lots of kids." He stood up and took a look another look at Gerik before climbing down the roof. Gerik pulled his knees up to his chest wrapped his arms around them and let out a deep sigh. </spoiler>

'''Logs''' - 17 
<spoiler>“So I just swing at it like that?” Gerik grinned at the Roegadyn he knew as Opyltyl. Opyltyl looked back at him and sighed. “Aye, don’t forget to ask for the elementals’ forgiveness... and do you always have to stick your tongue out when you swing?” Gerik shrugged and swung his hatchet at the tree again. He liked the way the doublet vest he bought looked on him. Of course, he decided he needed to look good for his first day at the Greatloam Growery which is why he spent most of his gil on it, plus it showed off his muscular arms, Gerik liked his arms. Opyltyl left soon after to manage the Growery. A loud yawn left his lips a few hours later and a warm, inviting-looking patch of grass caught his eye. Looking down at his meager stack of logs, he sighed and dropped his hatchet on the ground and started walking over and stretching for a nap. </spoiler>

== '''''Pre-Dalamud Summary''''' ==
Gerik's story starts with a nap. The clearing he had been laying in was warm, breezy, and most importantly, he found his favorite type of moss to lay on, for it was more spongy than the other varieties that lived on the forest floor. His snores could probably be heard from quite a while away. His boss at the Greatloam Growery had been checking up on Gerik more frequently these days since he'd often discovered that throughout the workday Gerik would wander off somewhere and take a nap. Stumbling upon Gerik in the clearing, he pulled out a flyer and a bit of plant based adhesive from his pocket and walked over to the napping Highlander. He fixed the flyer onto Gerik's forehead with the adhesive and walked away shaking his head.

Three bells or so later, Gerik awoke to find a piece of parchment stuck to his forehead, he tried to pull it off, but only succeeded in ripping the portion not directly attached to the glue off. "Shimmersong - Mercenary Company", the flyer read, curious to see what the company was about, he went to Owl's Nest and it was there that he first met Ariel Madaellyn and Yssen Van. After a lengthy interview process that intimidated Gerik to no end, he was accepted. His first mission as a mercenary was with House Mavanix; during the mission a fight broke out, Gerik primarily served as a utility role protecting the young Miyuki Tatsugawa and after the battle was when he first met Kylin Mavanix, albeit unofficially. A week or so later, another Mavanix mission came in. This time a demon named Juravis threatened the group and it needed to be slain. During this mission he met Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn and took a romantic interest in him almost immediately, being one of the few gay Roegadyns he's ever met.

Shortly after this mission, Gerik had a run in with Ysa Van, Yssen's mentally unstable sister. A fight was avoided however, and Gerik stayed in the Corvus Cinis HQ that night with Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn. Unfortunately, Gerik has never seen Sydalyr again after that and figured that Syd was just uninterested in him. Shimmersong's ranks began to bolster; Kylin Mavanix, Seohyun Iyasu and Derrick Rickkon were recruited into Shimmersong. Through Seohyun, he was introduced to Deirdre Ta'ea albeit briefly in her apartment in Limsa Lominsa. Gerik and Kylin never officially met for a while. During their first meeting Kylin and he were fast friends and this is when Gerik made a deal with Kylin to show Kylin his sketchbook in exchange for swimming lessons.

The Aleport beach was where they spent their time swimming. Gerik felt a chemistry between the two but didn't act on it, afraid of being rejected again like with Sydalyr. Gerik ran into Deirdre on the beach one day, She asked Gerik to hold her underwater, he initally said no, but then complied no matter how confused he was.

Ysa attacked Gerik again shortly thereafter in Limsa Lominsa and wanted to know about Deirdre. Gerik hesitated to give her information initially however eventually yielded when she stabbed and dislocated his shoulder. Gerik called for Kylin over the Crystalline pearl and was met with the voice of a compassionate duskwight woman. Eva stitched his wound and took care of the dislocation, since then he's felt a certain debt to her. Soon thereafter, Deirdre and Gerik went into hiding from Ysa on the cliffs of La Noscea under Oschon's Torch, there she began training him in combat, specifically, with the knife.

After Deirdre attacked Gerik out of mental instability, Kylin took Gerik to his sister Elza's cabin in Gridania where they lived for a while. Gerik and Kylin also began a relationship in this time, but it was not to last.

During the Felstar Gala chaos ensued, aether erupted from the very ground beneath the attendees. Kylin was one of the ones that got sucked down into its abyss. Gerik and Deirdre regrouped at Elza's cabin mourning the losses of Kylin and Shurin, neither of them left the cabin or spoke for several days. Deirdre and Gerik fled for the Isles of Umbra when monsters started attacking the city-states because of Dalamud's proximity. It is there they spend their last days before the fall of Dalamud.

== '''''FFXIV: A Realm Reborn''''' ==
----
==== '''''Year One:''''' ====
'''''Lamb Sausage Is Discovered:''''' <spoiler>Gerik strained his head to look back at the shore they were only twenty or thirty fulms out, but it felt like forever since they departed the Limsa docks. His rope restraints becoming more uncomfortable, but he tried to relax and enjoy the ride. He didn’t mind this positon, being tied face-down to the back of a Roegadyn; the Roegadyn’s back was comfortably warm.

The Captain of the boat “Ram’s Head” was Iawu, or “Wu” for short; a burly Hellsguard Roegadyn. “You doing all right back there? Don’t be gettin’ seasick or nothin’ or my back is gonna be covered in whatever’s in your stomach.”

Gerik managed a chuckle having relaxed significantly because of Wu’s kindness. Still he strained to look at Limsa Lominsa, trying to look for a blue haired Elezen. He thought he caught a glimpse of her for a second, but it was just what looked like a muscular man’s long blue wig blowing off in the sea breeze.

The waves rocked the boat back and forth, Wu seemed to know exactly how to steer a ship through choppy waters; it was sort of nice despite the thunder and lightning emanating from the sky above them.

“H-Hey.” Wu tensed up all of a sudden. “What’s that?”

Gerik snapped his attention from Limsa’s docks, to the horizon. Nothing. “What’s what?”

Wu looked back at Gerik sternly. “I know for a fact that I didn’t pack no lamb sausage in the back of my pants this mornin’.”
“Well.. the rocking.. and you’re so warm..” Gerik trailed off.

Wu grinned, “S’all right, I know how it is being a man.. Just don’t go drizzlin’ me with your baby gravy, I paid a lot for these pants.”

Some Bells Later –

Gerik opened his eyes from a nap, surprised by the bleakness of the sky, Dalamud seemed to glow stranger than usual. “Must be starting soon.”

Wu nodded. “I think we might be far enough from the impact zone now, but I’ll keep pressing further.”

Gerik squinted at Dalamud, “Hey, Wu, look at that..”

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. Nothing too out of the ordinary. “Look at what now?”

Gerik flashed a wide grin at Wu. “You don’t have a lamb sausage down your pants anymore”

Wu smiled, rolled his eyes, and turned back to the wheel. “Boy, and it only took a few bells to do so!”

To their left a large splash erupted, a few passengers on the ship ran to look at the commotion. When they realized that it was a fragment of Dalamud, they fled for cover below the bridge. More fragments came flying their way, most hitting the water far away. Gerik breathed a sigh of relief.

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. “What the – Are those wings?”

Gerik gripped Wu’s torso. “It’s coming closer.”

In an instant the giant wyrm was overhead and seemed to be en route to Limsa.

“You’d best hold on tight, Gerik.” Wu braced himself against the ship’s rail.
A massive wave took hold of the ship and with a fierce speed smashed it into the Procession of Terns. Luckily when the ship was destroyed Wu managed to wedge himself between the railing and the walkway of the procession with Gerik still affixed to his back. Wu himself had a small plank of wood impaled through his left calf, Gerik got off mostly unscathed save various cuts and bruises. Wu had been knocked unconscious by one of the ship’s support beams.

Gerik looked over at the direction in which the massive wyrm flew. “Deirdre...”
</spoiler> [[File:GerikHoney.png|right]]

'''''New Beginnings'''''
<spoiler>It had been a week since the tidal wave hit Limsa Lominsa. People were still looking and grieving for loved ones. A few rays of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the first rays anyone had seen in days. Gerik had been holed up in Iawu’s home in Limsa Lominsa. It was a long week.

“You’ll be alright laying here Wu?” Gerik touched Wu’s leg gingerly. He had just rebandaged the wound.

“Aye, that pretty nurse comes by regularly, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” Wu says with a grin.

“Pretty nurse… ” Gerik thought for a moment. “I thought there was only a MALE midlander nurse that came by here? You never told me you…”

“You never asked.” Wu finished quickly. “But anyway, you had best go, I know you want to look for Deirdre.” He tossed Gerik a sack of gil. “S’what Deirdre ordered me to give to you.”

Gerik caught the sack, nearly dropping it in the process. “Oh, this is the gil..” He kneeled down and reached into the sack, pulling out whatever could fit in his hand and stuffed it down Wu’s pocket. “For breaking my fall.” Before leaving, he flashed Iawu a small grin.

---
Gerik pulled the mint green scarf over his chin as he began his journey outside of Limsa Lominsa taking only a moment to glance back at the battered city-state as the wind billowed.
</spoiler>

'''''New Beginnings II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik made his way to Carteneau astonished at the remnants of the battle. Already he'd stumbled upon several corpses, each in varying states of decay. Although he'd never admit it, he cried at the sight of each, thinking any of them could have been be his friend once. Weapons occasionally occasionally served as beacons that glittered in the sun. The highlander came across a bow made of a strange purple stone, it needed a restringing, but otherwise it seemed to work fine. he picked it up and slung it over his shoulder. A short prayer was uttered to ask for forgiveness to take this bow and to offer peace to whomever once held it. He spent the entire day looking for a body with long blue hair, one of these days he vowed to come back with flowers in honor of the dead. The area was a wasteland, he was the only one alive and walking in the area with only corpses to greet him.

He saw a midlander cadaver that he thought was his friend Blade, he was slumped over on his massive axe, and it looked like he was missing an arm as well as half his face. Resisting the urge to sob again, he reached into his bag to find something appropriate to offer as his condolences. Finding nothing of worth, Gerik settled on placing his lunch: two boiled eggs and a few Mizzenmast Biscuits, at the knees of the man. Then he made a ring of stones around him, to signify that someone did care about him. However, Gerik never found who he was looking for. Disheartened, he turned around and headed to Gridania.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Two:''''' ====

'''''Can you Even Lift?'''''
<spoiler>"So, moving on then, do you have any weaknesses?"

"Hmmm, well I don't like getting stung by bees, if that's what you mean." Gerik shifted uncomfortably in the ash chair. "Oh! Also I haven't really tasted honey that much previously."

His elezen interviewer grimaced, unsure what to do with his responses. "Uhh.. so do you have any previous experience with beekeeping?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I used to get stung by bees a lot, that's how I know I don't like it." Rolling up his left sleeve, he pointed to an area on his arm where a bee had stung him. "I think this was the most recent, a few years ago maybe."

She stared blankly. "I just... I don't think you're qualified. But we don't have any other applicants, so I guess you're hired? Wait, you can lift at least one of those hives right?"

"Easily, probably." He looked through the window behind her at the wooden crate-looking hive.

"Oh, would you mind demonstrating, just for proof?" She turned around to fetch him some protective gear but was confused to find out that he'd left the shack, probably because of his impatient expectancy to demonstrate himself competent at the job.

She heard yelling coming from outside and immediately knew what had happened. He had tried to pick up an already populated hive.</spoiler>

'''''Honey Straight from the Hive'''''
<spoiler>"Just draw the bowstring back like this, and hold it. Hold your breath and take in your surroundings. Keep the scene in your mind. You may let go now, slowly." Calloused fingers touched the highlander's shoulder. "You've done well today, keep practicing."

Gerik looked confusedly in reciprocation and released the string just as she had told him. "But I didn't shoot anything."

"Ah, but you did. You just don't know it yet." The elderly elezen woman patted his head of hair. "You young people are so impatient nowadays."

"Hm.. Well ok. Same time tomorrow then?" He handed her a satchel that jingled with the sound of glass.

Her eyes widened as she opened the satchel. "Oh goody, my favorite, honey straight from the hive." She smacked her lips, "And how creative, you left part of the honeycomb in the jar. Momma's got to buy some toast to enjoy this with!" She tapped her chin with her bony fingers. "Yes, same time tomorrow. By the way, where did you get your bow, it's very, how do you say, unique?"

"I actually found it when looking for a friend.. Up in Mor Dhona. I guess someone dropped it or something." He handed he the bow, figuring that she wanted to see it for a better inspection.

She delivered a loud slap. "A dead man's bow?! What were you thinking?! Her nostrils flared as she exhaled.

Gerik recoiled after her slap and rubbed his stinging bicep, "Oww...that hurt."

She knocked on the bow, "Such an odd material wouldn't you say? Definitely not wood, some sort of stone, perhaps? Still, at least it's a longbow, wouldn't want a man like you to be using a sissy miqo'te shortbow." She chuckled at her comment bemusedly. "Hell maybe I would have ripped this bow out of some poor sap's dying hands too!"
</spoiler>

'''''"BZZZZZ"'''''
<spoiler>“The... bee goes Bzzzzzz?” Gerik raises an eyebrow at Iawu. “Is that… is that me getting stung on the ass?”

Iawu let out a hearty laugh. “Aye, was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Gerik stifled a laugh by biting his tongue, trying to appear serious. “W-well how couldn’t I? It’s just there… in the open, you even used the crack in the book as my buttcrack, what kind of kids book is this anyway?”

Iawu flipped through the pages of another copy and answered rather pointedly. “It’s an alphabet book, B is for Bee, D’you think it’s any good?”

After looking at his illustrated ass from every angle one could possibly imagine with a book, Gerik shifted his gaze back at Iawu whilst cracking a grin. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that story about me and the Honey Yard. And I didn’t get stung on the ass, I got stung on the uh… my...” Gerik furrowed his brows, thinking. “This thingy!” He points to his tailbone.

Iawu shrugged. “Close enough!” He took a seat and began flipping through the book again. “What sound d’you reckon an imp makes?”

Gerik’s face shifted from pensive to dumbfounded over a period of tics. “How’s this?” Gerik tucked his hands under his armpits and flapped imaginary imp wings. “SKREE SKREE!”

Iawu continued staring, even after Gerik’s sound effects. “Wow… I gotta say, that was… that was awful.”

Gerik crossed his arms. “Well you do it then.”

Iawu set the book on the table adjacent to his seat and got up, briefly adjusting his glasses. He brings his hands up to shoulder height and begins flapping them furiously. “TIIII, TIIII!” He stopped suddenly when he caught a glimpse of an old woman staring at them through the window.

“I-I was going to offer you some popotoes… but I think I’ll give them to that harlot next door instead…” The old woman chewed her lower lip for a while before adjusting her bra and walking away.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Three:''''' ====
'''''Men's Underwear'''''
<spoiler>The rain left Gerik's hair like dew covered grass. He hadn't expected how enjoyable it would be to work at the honey yard. Despite a painful start, he quickly learned the practice of beekeeping, and in fact, he enjoyed it immeasurably. He ran his hand through his hair before starting to harvest the honey from a nearby hive. Thoughts of several years ago flooded his head, mostly of Dalamud. He had always wondered where all the familiar faces that he was so accustomed to seeing went; where was Kylin, where was Deirdre, where was Blade? He plucked a bee out of the honey, it had mistakenly flown in.

Gerik sealed off the jar and headed back inside. "I've got the last batch harvested, should I just deliver this stuff now?" He licked his finger after noticing some vestigial honey lingered.

A red haired wildwood woman lifted her eyes from the paper she had been reading. "Oh my.. You're so very fast, I'd even dare to say you're one of the best workers here." Sauntering over she removed her glasses.

Flashing her a grin and glancing behind himself quickly, he decided "I um.. I think I'll just deliver these."

The wildwood woman eyed him up and down before taking his hand and brought it up to her lips.

Gerik was a rigid plank of wood, he cringed at her advances, but she was his superior. Her tongue was a snake slithering over the finger he had licked prior. "Right um.. I think it's, it's.." Gerik shifted uncomfortably. "Look, the new Lalafell employee is stealing the honey!" As the eleven woman spun around to look outside the window, he took his delivery and ran.

---

"This seems like the place..?" A large Uldahn mansion that had seen better days stood in his path. He took the knocker in his hand, but the door opened before he could bring it down, a sophisticated looking highlander woman met his gaze and answered rather pointedly.

"Baelhyn residence, this is Etienne."

"Oh, ah I'm here for the delivery, yeah?"

"I see. Please bring it this way, and leave your shoes outside, they are filthy."

She led him past the foyer and into the kitchen. What looked like a mansion that would have employed a full retinue of retainers was empty and lonely.

"Please leave it here." Her gloved hand pointed to a countertop, as he approached she began to develop a displeased expression on her face. "When was the last shower you had? Your very smell is causing me to age."

Taken aback by her comment, Gerik paused for an inordinate amount of time before placing the jars on the counter. "Walking from Gridania to Ul'dah isn't a short walk, yeah?"

She seemed to ignore his last comment,"Why, I feel as though I should do the greater community a service and allow you a shower."
"Thanks? I think."

Gerik stood still, still unsure of what transpired. When he snapped back, he realized the woman was already down the hallway.

"You will have to use the master's bathroom, I am afraid the other bathrooms are in disrepair at this moment in time." Producing a plush towel from her right hand, she opened the door to the ornately decorated bathroom and let him inside. "Do not steal anything, I know exactly how many soaps and miscellaneous bath accessories we have." With that she turned on her heel and closed the door behind her, tawny brown hair trailing after.

Gerik removed off his shirt and pants quickly, however he decided to examine the bathroom a little closer, it had been a long while since he'd seen a posh bathroom like this, he eagerly opened all the soaps and sniffed them, and then looked though the drawers. In one he found what looked like a collection men's underwear. He looked behind him making sure Etienne wasn't behind him. Quickly he removed his own underwear and pulled up the one he found; grinning, he modeled for himself in the mirror.

"Ahem."
A well dressed man stood in the doorway.
"My, when the cat is away, the mice will certainly play."
</spoiler>

'''''Men's Underwear Part II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik turned around to catch a glimpse of the man who possessed the assertive baritone voice.
A clean-cut highlander man stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around his waist; sun-kissed skin glowing from the afternoon sun. “So I suppose this is what the menial labor of Eorzea has come to, trying on others’ clothes and doing as they please in another’s house.”

Gerik twiddled his thumbs. “Ah, sorry.. I didn’t mean to-.”
A smirk crossed the noble’s lips, and slowly his mouth distorted as if to hold back laughter, the dam that was his lips eventually gave way and a torrent of laughter followed. Slowly his laughter slackened, Gerik stood dumbfounded at the man throughout the process.

“I’m sorry, you just have no idea how dull these days are; a little excitement is good.” He wiped tears from his eyes. “Usually the only person I ever talk to is Etienne, and I’m quite afraid we’ve run out of things to talk about. Anyway, my name is Issachar, and you are?”

Gerik grinned, happy that the situation didn’t end up with him being arrested. “I’m Gerik, from the Honey Yard, but um.. nice place you got here.”

Issachar nodded and scanned the floor, not seeming to pay attention the latter part of what Gerik said. “So you were going to take a bath, I take it?”

Gerik positioned himself so that he could lean against the sink across the doorway. “Yeah, your assistant kind of dragged me up here.”
“Etienne will definitely do that. She might call me ‘Master’ or what have you, but she’s the real one that runs this estate. But ah, I suppose you don’t need to hear all this, I’ll wait my turn to use the facilities.” With that, he bowed and gently closed the door behind him. “You can keep that underwear by the way!” Issachar projected from the other side of the door.

---

Briefly into his bath, he heard a few knocks on the door. “Mister Gerik, Master Baelhyn wishes to have tea with you after his shower. He has also instructed for me to lay clothes out for you, they are located on the end table outside of this door.”
Smiling at the rhythmic intervals of Etienne’s heels going down the hallway he closed his eyes and soaked in the tub.
</spoiler>

'''''Tea is Served'''''
<spoiler>

Etienne dropped a silver tray laden with a teapot and two teacups abruptly on the table with a loud clank. "Your tea sir." She turned on her heels and walked back to the kitchen.

The two men stared at each other a moment wondering what that minor outburst meant. Issachar broke the silence first. "Forgive her, I assume she's most used to serving nobility. I'm assuming she's taking serving an ah.. how do I say this delicately." Issachar murmured to himself. "Ah, there it is, working class member. She's taking serving a working class member as an affront to her station, or that's what I'm presuming anyway."

Gerik stopped mixing honey into his tea briefly to look back at Issachar. "I can go, if it's making her feel bad, yeah?"

"No, no, you're fine. Hell, for all I know, we might be members of this working class soon, my parents' business ventures haven't been going very well with me at the wheel." Issachar shrugged nonchalantly and sipped at his tea. "I mean, if the state of this house isn't an indicator."

"It's not so bad, I can get you a job at the Honey Yard." Gerik smirked and leaned back in his chair and gestured to the jar of honey sitting on the glass tea table. "It's more difficult than it seems to harvest that."

Issachar feigned a scoff. "Such a lowly position has no place with these noble hands!" When his attempt at a joke failed and Gerik looked more confused than anything, the highborn highlander tried to revive the conversation again. "I uh.. that was my attempt at being humorous, my apologies for offending. Truth be told, I'd enjoy experiencing that."

"You will do no such thing." Etienne's encroaching footsteps alerted the two to her position, she carried a tray of fruit tarts. "You need to consider your parents' legacy, may they rest in peace, before you go off gallivanting with some man you just met a few hours ago, I will not be selling myself off in the streets like those Concern girls." She shot Gerik a deadly look before placing the tray onto the table.

"Well why not? I mean it's good work." Gerik replied, a bit more defensive than he would have liked.

"I am afraid I will not be dignifying that with a response." She crossed her arms and looked away.

Issachar laughed profusely before breaking into a coughing fit. "Look at you two, like an old married couple." He was the only one that chuckled at his own joke. "But I suppose you're right, I do need to attend to business." Issachar fiddled with his cravate. "Tell you what Gerik, why don't make an arrangement where you come by and visit weekly or so?"
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Four:''''' ====

'''''Becoming a Tree'''''
<spoiler>A dapper man stepped out behind an ornate changing screen. "Well, how is it?" He ran his hands over the satiny fabric covering his chest. "I'm not quite so fond of this collar."

"Mister Issachar, it's fine. I hired the best seamstresses at sunsilks, they even embroidered your family crest into it." A silver marmot laid at the cuff of his left sleeve.

"Oh, that's what that is." He ran his fingers over the embroidery. "This is supposed to represent my family's fur trade, yeah?"

Etienne rolled her eyes. "You've been starting to speak like that... like that uncouth delinquent ever since you allowed him to commandeer the guest bedroom."

The royal purple bowtie gleamed like an amethyst as Issachar straightened it. Peering through the mirror at Etienne he smirked. "Be nicer to him, won't you?"

She made a sigh and gave him an acidic look. "Shall I make arrangements for Lady Ardris to escort you? I really wish you didn't invite that crude lummox."

The placid expression on his face broke. He coughed. "You mean for that vile, insipid woman to escort me?"

"We have no choice, we're losing gil, do you want us to be out on the streets?! Putting yourself in a position to marry Lady Ardris is the best shot you have at bringing this family back to the wealth it once knew." With a hand on her hips she turned around biting her lip, she hated mandating things to him.

Looking wistfully at the bird that had just perched itself on the windowsill, Issachar answered, "I suppose you're right." A sigh left his lips. "Say, Etienne, what do you suppose of the idea of you taking over my parents' business. If I recall, you're quite proficient at numbers."

"Well, sure, I graduated top of my class at the old Mavanix Academy. But what do you mean to say?" She spun around on her heel to look at him accusingly. "You're just giving up?"

A dignified gait carried the man over to a sofa where he sat and placed a book onto his lap. "Oh come now, let's not sugarcoat things, we both know the time of my eternal sleep is sooner than later... I've put a lot of thought into this, and I think you should be the rightful leader to my parents' legacy, they always did love you like a daughter, just as I've always loved you as a sister." He tapped the book a few times to break the silence that fell after his declaration, "I've been reading this story, the protagonist dies and wants to be buried with a tree to celebrate the metaphorical union of the cycle of life and death. I'd like to think I could go that way too, so very poetic."

With tears welling in her eyes she delivered a hard backhand to his face. "No more of this talk." She took a tic to compose herself and to wipe the tears from her face. "I'll need to prepare Gerik for this society event should you really wish for him to attend with you."

Issachar nodded, holding the side of his face. "... please do."

---

Several rhythmic knocks alerted Gerik to a prescence on the other side of the bathroom door. He put down the rubber chocobo he had been playing with in the bathtub. "Eh? That you Etienne?"

A muffled reply came from the other side of the door. "I so wish that you would stop speaking in that agrarian elocution you love so dearly. When you come out of there I have a few lessons for you."

"What kind of lessons? Are they going to be painful again?" Gerik looked at the burn mark he had on his palm from grabbing an deceptively hot pan.

"Well my goodness, I had no idea I was living with a little girl, and who grabs a cast iron pan without a potholder anyway?!" She struck the door with her hand.

He could hear her tapping her heels to the floor, she was growing impatient. "Alright, alright, I'm coming." He set the rubber chocobo atop the faucet and drained the water from the bathtub.</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Five:''''' ====

'''''Issachar'''''
<spoiler>Issachar collapsed one balmy day in Ul'dah. Everything seemed pleasant enough, his favorite tree in the garden had just grown fruit. Etienne was out conducting business on his behalf, and Gerik was probably out with his Roegadyn friend. It was a shame he'd never gotten to meet this Burgenheim fellow, Gerik told him all about the Roegadyn's enthusiasm for books. Perhaps they could have traded stories. He would concede that he felt jealous of Gerik spending so much time with the man, But it was for the best, they all knew this day would come. Issachar drew up his will just the other week, he had every faith that Etienne would revive his parent's namesake; and Gerik, well, he wanted him to be happy. A percentage was to be skimmed off the top of their profits and sent directly to Gerik, weekly, Etienne was to do this herself; as for the Baelhyn Manor, they were to each own half the rights to the property. it would take a lot of gil to repair things that had fallen to a state of disrepair.

He coughed.

Issachar didn't want to burden them with his inconvenience, it was good that neither of them were home, they could enjoy their time out to the fullest. He stared at the ceiling cursing his ailment, imagining Gerik's skin against his own, his stubble like a cat's tongue running down his chest. And then that first day they had met. He reminisced over the warm honeyed toast they had shared that this morning, honey could certainly only be described as liquid gold. Or even earlier that morning when he spent a good deal of time just happy to be cuddling with the man, his hands intimately embraced around Gerik's chest, he was always so warm, and he loved when Gerik's musk wafted into his nose. Gerik's natural musk was like an open field; it made think him of cobblestones and maybe ash trees, somewhere open and free. Then his vision began to fade, so he closed his eyes. His hearing dulled, so he stopped listening. His breath began to weaken, so he stopped breathing.</spoiler>

'''''Cake'''''
<spoiler>"MY CAKE! WHERE IS IT?!" Etienne tore through the manor like a madwoman. Loud footsteps encroached quickly toward a sleeping Gerik. "DID YOU EAT IT?! DID YOU?!"

He rubbed his eyes lazily and propped himself up on one arm over the sofa. "Ugh.. My brain is telling me you're being way too loud for my hangover right now."

"You did eat it didn't you?! There isn't anything in this house that hasn't been in your mouth at least once!" Her eyes grew large with rancor. "You even ate some of my eye cream! And don't act like I didn't notice, I saw your fingerprints on the patina on the side and there was about a spoonful missing!"

"Hey! It looked like whipped cream, and it was in such a nice little jar!" He sat up, already feeling tense from their constant conflicts ever since he moved in, though lately it had gotten worse.

"Gods, you are one of the most disgusting beings that ever inhabited Hydaelyn! I saved up MOONS for that cake! Not to mention how long it took to get onto the waiting list to even buy it! The Bismarck only makes five of those a year!" Each of her words were punctuated by the stomping sound of her custom made heels. "Well?! Did you eat all of it?!"

"I uh... Nooooo?" Knowing she was right, he scanned the room for the tray it had come in.

"I should have known. You only have about FIVE stomachs in that body of yours." She sighed and pivoted around, "Well, I have a board meeting to attend, but I expect reparations when I return! And clean your room, it looks like the asshole of the Mineral Concern exploded in there!"

A few quick motions of her hands and her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows and her business attire was smoothed over.

As soon as he knew she left the foyer, he trudged over to the kitchen and pulled a little box out of the pantry. Quickly thumbing through the slips of paper, he began to look for a recipe.
</spoiler>

'''''Cake Part II'''''
<spoiler>
Etienne exhaustingly pushed the stained glass door open, she kicked off her heels and continued to walk over to her room. Halfway there she caught a whiff of something heavenly coming from the kitchen. She peeked around the corner and caught sight of Gerik trying to frost what looked like a piece of marmot steak.

His tongue stuck out like an upturned leaf as he paddled icing on with a spoon. Not noticing her peeking in the doorway, he proceeded to apply what looked like wording to the cake. He thought to himself about what happened earlier that day, he had been an ass. He had just been so angry lately. Angry at Etienne, angry at Issachar, but mostly angry at himself. He tried to legibly pipe out "I'm Sorry" on the cake, and mostly achieved legibility. Gerik sighed deeply and looked over at his cake, staring at it a moment before slowly sliding the platter that held the cake to the edge of the counter and dumping it nonchalantly in the trash where all his previous cakes had landed. Leaning against the counter with his back facing Etienne. With a somber look at the trash, Gerik slid to the floor,tucking his knees into his chest.

"You don't need to waste food, you know." Etienne cracked a grin at him. Her hazel eyes looked over the somber looking highlander, he hadn't responded to her remark. "Look, I'm sorry, I've been quite tough on you ever since Issachar took a fancy to you... Well, ever since you first visited really." She tucked a stray piece of tawny hair behind her ear. "It's been tough ever since Mister Baelhyn left, I know."

His eyes had begun to grow glassy. Knowing her stoic analytical nature, he appreciated that she was even trying to make a joke of sorts, but the truth was that he had been incredibly unhappy ever since the death of his lover, Issachar. He nodded through her attempted dialogue with him, but he simply couldn't concentrate.

She sighed and slid onto the the floor next to Gerik, it was covered in flour, but she was beyond the point of caring about her clothes. "You know.. I ordered the cake for the both of us, I wanted us to enjoy it during this tough time. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you." She placed her palm flat on the floor and shifted some flour around.

Without warning, Gerik wrapped his arms around her in an embrace. He buried his tear-streaked face into her shoulder. "N-no, I'm sorry. I just.. I just-"

"I know, I know, I miss him too." She patted him uncomfortably, bodily contact was a pet peeve of hers. Still, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "I think I know something that we can do that would make Issachar happy, I'll be right back." Moments later she returned holding a seed, "I um.. I remember him saying that he wanted to have a tree planted inside his grave. Mind you I don't know what kind of tree this is, but perhaps this will do." Delicately she opened the mans hands and places the seed between his palms. She gave him a half smile before taking a few steps backward. "See to it that you tell that new maid of ours that this mess get attended to."</spoiler>

==== '''''Current''''' ====
(COMING SOON)

== '''''Rumors''''' ==

'''''Common Rumors'''''

*“Aye, that’s the guy I saw at the Bismark, ate nearly 3 plates o’ raw oysters ‘afore passing out in a room at the Mizzenmast.” -Astonished Highlander

*“You remember that one man who came by and chatted me up last week right? Babette told me over linkshell that she just saw him snogging a Roegadyn in the Market Wards, and not a female one! …No, you most certainly cannot watch them Damali!” – Scorned Midlander

*“With a gilded tongue like that, I’m not surprised he’s not got a higher position in society. Don’t even get me started on that nice lookin’ body he’s got.” – Lascivious Roegadyn

*"I heard that guy has a terrible work ethic, sometimes doesn't show up for days! But damn if I can't say no to that smile." - Conflicted Elezen

*"You could probably sell a bridge to that guy, he'll believe whatever you tell him...I guess all looks, no brains? ...Sure was good in bed though." - Disappointed Lalafell

'''''Intermittent Rumors:'''''

*“I heard he grew up at some orphanage in Gridania, why’d ya think his parents would give him up, oooh, maybe he has mental issues, or maybe the moogles brought him to Gridania, or maybe…” – Presumptuous Lalafell

*“The Adventurer’s Guild doesn’t seem to like to hand him leves, supposedly he turns down most of them. Sounds like pure slothfulness to me, what happened to the quality of our adventurers? Back in my day, adventurers weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.” – Elderly Elezen

*"I heard he came into some gil recently, first that rich Mavanix boy, and then that Baelhyn heir.. I bet he's a no-good golddigger!" - Scandalous Elezen

'''''Rare Rumors:''''' 

*“The other week I caught him hanging out with an Ixal near Murmur Rills, looked pretty comfortable with em’. Guess when it comes to friends he don’t discriminate even between beastmen, could probably use that as some damn good blackmail though.” – Scheming Roegadyn

*“You know about those rich aristocrats in Ul’dah right? Apparently that bloke might’ve had some intimate relations with one of them, or one of their sons; whichever, it don’t matter much, anyway it ended sourly. Rarely ventures into Ul’dah now, or at least that’s what I noticed, and I would know! I sell the airship tickets from Gridania!” – Gossipy Elezen

*“Heard his parents might still be alive despite them being off the grid for years. Don’t think he’s interested in trying to locate them though, I think they used to use him just for their benefit and dumped him in Gridania when it got rough.” – Softspoken Midlander

'''''Player Character Rumors (Feel free to add your own!):'''''

* "He is a loyal sort, with a bigger heart than his chest can contain. If you are inquiring after him with intention to harm, I will string you up and flay the flesh from your bones." -[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]

* "I never cared about anyone like I did him. But alas, Nymeia had other plans." -[[Kylin Felstar]]

* "Who? Oh- Yea, he's tall. And.. large? No, really, I've not met him but twice or so.. I can't tell you much about him. If you see him though, tell him I didn't mean to hit him aye?" -[[Aysun Demiir]]

== '''''Affiliations''''' ==

*'''''[[Burgenheim Rousa]]:''''' Gerik's new confidant and best friend, he visited the Corvus Cinis Headquarters nearly every day while living in Ul'dah to visit him. He loves the stories the Roegadyn tells him. Gerik is thankful for the Roegadyn's presence, as Burgenheim was the only friend he had in Ul'dah at the time. As the Sultana bought the old Corvus Cinis estate, Burgenheim is now living in Gerik's guest room.

*'''''[[K'aworu Rhea]]:''''' Gerik found K'aworu after rumors of the "Warriors of Light" reappearing. He brought him to the fane for medical treatment and worked at the Honey Yard to cover his expenses. Recently he's moved into Gerik's Ul'dahn home, much to Etienne's chagrin.

*'''''[[Razeyha'li Venyhs]]:''''' Gerik met Razeyha'li in Gridania while he was looking for herbs for K'aworu. The two spent more time with each other when Razeyha'li offered to venture to Ul'dah with Gerik. A lot of what Razeyha'li says confuses Gerik, but he likes that he at least tries to dumb it down enough for him.

*'''''[[Seohyun Iyasu]]:''''' Seohyun disappeared for 5 years, but recently Gerik's rediscovered her in an unorthodox way. Seohyun and Gerik were set up for an arranged marriage to benefit both of their families.

*'''''[[Kylin Felstar]]:''''' Quite possibly one of the most unexpected friends he's ever had. Kylin didn't turn out to be what Gerik expected a rich entitled heir to be. They had an intense short-lived relationship over a few months; Gerik now believes Kylin is dead due to 5 years of no contact.

*'''''[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]:''''' Deirdre has grown to be a matriarchal figure for Gerik. Despite him not knowing why she often goes out of her way to protect him, he enjoys her company. She's also served as Gerik's mentor of sorts in the art of the dagger. Recently relations between them got more awkward because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years and believes her dead.

*'''''[[Blade Belisaire]]:''''' Blade has been a sort of recurring acquaintance for Gerik; they first met when Gerik tried to pick him up in a bar. He doesn't know much about the man, except that he's been acting a bit.. off, as of lately. He hasn't seen him in 5 years and believes him dead.

*'''''[[Eva Ianeira]]:''''' Gerik finds Eva a very pleasant acquaintance. He doesn't know her that well, however she gave him medical attention after his shoulder had been stabbed and he feels indebted to her to a degree. He'd like to get to know the even-tempered duskwight better. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Ariel Madaellyn]]:'''''At their first meeting, Gerik was very much intimidated by Ariel, she holds such an authoritative aura about her.  However he's begun to let his guard down around her and has decided that she's genuinely a nice person. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Selene Artemis]]:''''' He knows Selene as Blade's girlfriend. The two haven't really gotten to know each other much, but he feels awkward about their relationship because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Yssen Van]]:''''' Very few words have been exchanged between Yssen and Gerik. Previously finding Yssen hypocritical on the topic of his sister and distancing himself between Yssen, he's decided to let the past be the past. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

== '''''Fan Art''''' ==

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the art done of Gerik, and I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to draw him!

<spoiler>

Kres Leschae

[[File:Lolgerik.jpg]]

Abaigeal

[[File:GerikAbaigeal.jpg]]

Tim'a Fei

[[File:CJGerik2.jpg]]

Mtoto Wamoto

[[File:GerikMtotoresize.jpeg]]

Deirdre

[[File:GerikDeirdre.jpeg]]

Tim'a Fei

[[File:CJGerik.jpg]]

Xenedra

[[File:Gerik by michialmasy-d67dx5n.png]]

Rhostel

[[File:NNFCD.jpg]]

Me

[[File:GerikPants.png]]

Me

[[File:Gerikcupcake.png]]

</spoiler>

== '''''Annotations''''' ==

'''''The Sketchbook:''''' Since he was young, Gerik has always kept a sketchbook handy, primarily because of his affinity to drawing.  He's gone through quite a lot over the years (13 total) and keeps them in his lodging with the exception of the one being used, which is always kept on his person.  Many of his sketches are of the creatures that live in Eorzea, as well as men he finds attractive.  He's quite private about the contents of his sketchbook, save for those people he trusts the most.  One of the caretakers at the Acorn Orchard got him his first sketchbook, and since then he's been attached to the idea.

*'''''Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to talk to me about planning an RP or something. Either sending me a /tell in game or a PM on the RPC will work. I'm down for most everything, plus Gerik needs more friends!'''''

If you wanted more stuff to read about Gerik, you could check out these pages on TvTropes: [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GentleGiant Gentle Giant], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DumbMuscle Dumb Muscle], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/MenCantKeepHouse Men Can't Keep House], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TheSlacker The Slacker], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GymBunny Gym Bunny], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/StraightGay Straight Gay].

'''''Actor who would Portray Gerik''''': [http://www.thepictureswarehouse.com/d/72483-1/Marco+Dapper+picture+6.jpg Marco Dapper]

'''''Theme Song''''': [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-gXQqtjBjU Lazy Daydream]

Gerik Aston

2013-07-26T07:51:53Z

2013-07-02T06:41:06Z

Gerik: /* Affiliations */

<div style="padding: 12px; background-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">


{{Infobox-character
| name = Gerik Brynn Aston
| image = Gerikava300.png
| imagewidth = 300
| caption =
| title = The Zephyr
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = Menphina, the Lover
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 26 (Post Dalamud)
| stat_3 = Nameday
| stat_3_value = 26th Sun of the 6th Astral Moon
| stat_4 = Orientation
| stat_4_value = Homosexual
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Beekeeper
}}

== '''''General''''' ==

''Gerik is a laid-back, charismatic highlander and can usually be seen with a smile on his face. He tries hard to avoid as much responsibility as possible (save for those causes he deems worth fighting for), not because he’s lazy, per se, he just wants to feel like he has the freedom to do what he wants, when he wants. Feeling his bare feet in the grass or the cool breeze that blows through the Twelveswood are some of his greatest pleasures.''

== '''''Appearance''''' ==

[[File:GerikRedClothes400.png|right|]]

'''''Height:'''''

:6 fulms, 6 ilms - he is a bit taller than most Highlanders. 

'''''Weight:'''''

:243 ponz – Gerik is a bit bulky in terms of muscle. He attributes his physique to good genes as he doesn't really do anything consciously to retain or build muscle. 

'''''Body:'''''

:Gerik is well-built and defined having somewhat of a gymnast's build. Having worked for a short time at the Greatloam Growery in [[Gridania]] assisted in the development of muscle as well as his normal ability to retain his physique. He thinks his best attributes are probably his chest and arms. 

'''''Complexion:'''''

:Tanned, bronzed skin covers Gerik's body. He used to have a few scars, but since he's been cohabiting with Deirdre she's returned his skin to its original condition. He has a symmetrical tattoo on his face, a simple design comprised of six white lines. 

'''''Hair:'''''

:Gerik normally crops his hair very close to the scalp. He's considered growing it out however he generally doesn't like when his hair grows long enough to touch his ears. If he let it grow out, its natural color would be one of a darker burgundy or maroon. A moderate amount of stubble grows on his jawline, normally Gerik doesn't bother to trim it everyday, opting to trim it once every three days or so. Starting at his belly button, Gerik has a light dusting of hair that leads down to his genital region, sometimes he shaves it off, other times not. 

'''''Fashion:'''''

:Shirtless is the way to go for Gerik. He finds that it provides the most freedom in terms of everyday activities, and he also likes to feel the breeze around him. However in situations where a shirt of some sort is necessary, he'll tend to use some sort of lightweight, breathable fabric. He also has a set of clothing for more formal events, he thinks that the wedge cap from the set makes him looks less intimidating. In downtime alone, Gerik can be seen in normally just his underwear, or a set of pants and shoes. 

== '''''Personality''''' ==

Due to Gerik's odd upbringing, he still remains a child at heart. More than anything he wants to be liked and to have people he can trust and rely on. He's very social and trusts people very easily due to this, however at the same time he's also afraid to let people get too close for the fear of others hurting him. Others might perceive him as being gullible and a bit slow and they'd probably be right. He never had a 'good' education, so in that regard he's not quite so bright. During his time spent at Gridania he's learned a little about how to cultivate plants, which plants have medicinal properties to them, and which plants are safe to eat, in addition to a bunch of other assorted knowledge about plants and creatures within the forest. Many would describe Gerik as 'lucky', sometimes things happen to him with little to no effort on his part, or he gets something accomplished in a very unorthodox manner.

Despite him not being a 'Forestborn,' he thinks he's earned the trust of the local Gridanians enough for them to treat him as one. He's spent a lot of his time in the Twelveswood, even going as far as to camp in the canopies of the trees at night. When on these extended camping trips he usually spends most of his time napping, or observing the happenings within the forest, his employers are generally not pleased as he may not come in to work for a few days or more. His favorite haunt is the White Willow near Camp Emerald Moss.

'''''Family''''': 
Gerik's mother and father were trading merchants, often travelling between every city-state. His surname, Aston, comes from his mother's maiden name and its midlander origins come from the words "East", and "tun", or the settlement to the east of a main village near the ash trees. Eirika, Gerik's mother, was daughter to a former Ala Mhigan noble house. His father, Ganun, was a commoner, and as such, Eirika was never quite satisfied being married to him. Their son, Gerik is 3/4 Highlander and 1/4 Midlander (from his mother's side).

'''''Personality Traits:'''''

*Charismatic

*Hedonistic

*Absent-Minded

*Clumsy

*Slothful

*Athletic

*Trusting

*Jovial

*Messy

*Warm

*Slow-Witted

*Lucky

[[File:GerikAVA.png|right]]

'''''Talents:'''''

*Socialization

*Wilderness Survival

*Singing (Singing voice is based off John Martin, please ignore the electronic background music [http://youtu.be/RLaSjeCFnlE] [http://youtu.be/-yg3dLEDWqs] [http://youtu.be/-bt94yKsKHQ])

*Sketching 

*Tracking/Hunting 

*Stealth 

 

'''''Likes:''''' 

*The Twelveswood

*Riding Airships

*Freedom

*Gossip

*Fireworks 

'''''Favorite Food:''''' 

*Raw Oyster

'''''Favorite Color:''''' 

*A bit undecided, definitely either blue or green though.

'''''Favorite Creature:'''''

*Apkallus

 

'''''Dislikes:''''' 

*Snooty condescending people

*The Ul’dahan “gil makes the world go round” mentality

*People who disrespect the Twelveswood

*Being used

*Books and Reading

 

'''''Fears:''''' 

*Feeling obligated to a lot of responsibility

*Becoming incapacitated, or otherwise less mobile 

*Losing peoples' favor 

 

----

=== '''''Demeanor:''''' ===

Gerik tends to take a flippant approach to the world, that is, everything but a few select things are not taken quite as seriously as they should be, he also comes off as an optimist. Some of his favorite pasttimes are conversing and meeting new people. His charismatic and charming nature make acquiring friends a simple task, however he’s not one to sugarcoat things, instead preferring to be blunt and openly disagree should a point he feels is wrong manifest. In fact, due to his blunt nature, sometimes inappropriate comments may be blurted out. Despite this, Gerik tries hard to be as good-natured and kindhearted as possible.

[[File:GerikLayDown2.png|right]]
 

'''''Quirks:''''' 

*Has a very large appetite, can usually be seen snacking if there is nothing more pressing to attend to, nobody really knows how he stays in shape, not even Gerik.

*Gerik is quite sloppy; he strategically packs his bag every morning, his strategy for packing is to take a bunch of stuff strewn on the floor of his room and haphazardly dump it into his bag.

*Finds Roegadyn men absolutely endearing, he entertains the idea of a cuddly Roegadyn, and likes it, '''a lot'''.

 

----

== '''''History:''''' ==

'''''Childhood''''' 

:Gerik hails from Ala Mhigo. His parents worked as traveling merchants selling and trading wares from one city-state to another. His mother sang to crowds in an effort to increase sales and forced Gerik to do the same once he was old enough.  During the time of the Garlean invasion, Gerik and his parents were in Gridania. Due to Gerik being a child at the time, they decided it would be safer for them to travel since he would be a burden and abandoned him in Gridania. There, he was raised in the Acorn Orchard with other Gridanian children. During his time growing up, he spent a lot of time in the forest basking in its beauty and enjoying the company of the creatures that are native to the Twelveswood. 

'''''Adolescency''''' 

:At the age of adolescency, Gerik decided he should find something meaningful to do with his life and repay the debt he felt he owed to Gridania, and since he's had a sizeable amount of prior experience with a bow (hunting) as well as the practice of tracking prey and remaining unseen; thus he began training more seriously in the art of archery with aspirations to become a member of the God's Quiver (he also dabbled a bit in the art of lances thinking he might be able to join the Wood Wailers, as well as conjury at the Stillglade Fane, however he dismissed these ideas once he realized he couldn't possibly attempt to join all three factions).  

'''''Adulthood''''' 

:However it was not to be; he was not accepted into the God's Quiver on reasons that are still unknown to him, instead they referred him to someone referred to as the "Godsbow." After much listening to Jehantel's songs and using them as a basis for study, he's slowly been increasing his repertoire of songs. Still, he prefers to not perform in public as he's a bit self-conscious. Gerik is currently looking into alternative ways to assist Gridania's cause due to his inability to assist the God's Quiver.  His previous employment history was that of a simple lumberjack for the Botanist's Guild in Gridania. Prior to Dalamud, he found employment with the Shimmersong mercenaries, their headquarters residing in Owl's Nest; he finds the region of Coerthas breathtaking. Presently, he volunteers at the Honey Yard and lives in Ul'dah.
 
----

'''Dreadful Cacaphony''' - 0 
<spoiler>"Ugh." A young highlander woman sighed. "Ganun it it's crying again honestly how can one get her beauty rest with that dreadful cacaphony going on." She rolled over and slapped the highlander male lying adjacent to her. "Wake up and deal with it!" Ganun grunted in defeat and rolled out of bed. He exasperatingly sighed "Yes dear." Ganun coddled the newborn all the while sporting his trademark scowl; eventually the child eased up and fell asleep. He walked back to bed and fell asleep. Morning came and he woke up to his wife Eirika coddling the newborn almost maternally, a trait he thought she never possessed; however his thought was interrupted when she screeched. "You know my womanhood will never be the same because of you the only good thing you've brought me is a larger set of breasts!" She gazed down at her ample cleavage admiring herself. She turned to face Ganun who just awoke. "Ganun darling shouldn't we name this abomination?" She gestured almost disgustingly at the infant. "Yes yes I suppose we should" Ganun replied. After a bell of deliberation, Eirika had a thought. "Ganun why not just combine our names and be done with this nonsense, all this thinking will give me wrinkles; so how does 'Gerik' sound? I think it it's just marvelous, of course it contains more of my name seeing as I'm the important one." She turned around and began to admire her cleavage again. "Yes, I suppose Gerik it is then." He smiled slightly at the newborn, quite possibly the first smile he had in years.</spoiler>

'''Fish & Desperation''' - 4 
<spoiler>"What is that dreadful smell; it smells like fish and desperation!" Eirika held her nose shut with her index finger and thumb. Ganun sighed and said slowly. "Dear we are in Limsa Lominsa trying to sell wares... right now we are in the fish market. Fish. Market." Eirika brushed her hair out of her face and stuck her nose up. "Ganun I do believe it is your turn to supervise Derrick." He sighed. "It's Gerik dear, and yes bring him to me." Ganun replied scowling at his wife. "Yeah, whatever." Eirika shrugged as she was applying more lipstick. "Zarik get over here this iiiinstant!" However the young child did not appear. Eirika cleared her throat and shrieked "Merik!" "Do you mean to tell me you lost our child?" Ganun inquired with the same scowl that was ever present on his face. She replied coolly, "frankly Ganun, I can't be held responsible, for you should have been paying more attention to him. What kind of father are you anyway?!" She adjusted her skirt in such a manner so that it would reveal more of her upper thigh. "But fine, have it your way, I'll go search for the little cretin." She discovered the toddler playing with two fish that probably fell off a cart during transport; two merchant-looking men were next to him offering him various other seafood to play with. "Hi bitch!" the young Gerik exclaimed happily. "You just called me what?!" Eirika's face turned red with anger. "tha-tha's what my new f'rends said your name was e'rlier." He gestured to the two merchants. The merchants stood up visibly embarrassed, we didn't mean it miss we apologi-.” Just then Eirika delivered a quick backhand to both of the merchants faces. She picked up young Gerik before he could crawl off anywhere else and stormed off. She looked down at the toddler and noticed he was holding a rothlyt oyster, she slapped it out of his hands. "No we do not touch anything that looks like a vagin-!" Ganun interrupted her. "Eirika I've prepared our stall. Are you ready?" "Really Ganun, do you have to ask, I was born ready." She flashes an almost sinister grin and brushes some hair out of her face. "But before we begin..." She fashioned a rope attached to the stall as a leash for the toddler and proceeded to arrange her clothes so that they were more revealing. When she was ready she began to sing. </spoiler>

'''Sweet Child''' - 7 
<spoiler>"C'mmere Gerik! Eirika said sternly. "Ok mommy!" Gerik jumped off a stool and ran to her eagerly. "Yes, such a sweet child... now drink this!" Eirika handed him a cup with a strange smelling liquid inside. Gerik looked up at her with a suspicious expression but drank from the clay cup anyway. Moments later, everything seemed to blur together and he passed out on the floor. Eirika turned around "Ganun did you get the man I asked for?" She pulled her hair into an updo. "Yes dear, I did." Ganun opened the door to let a highlander man into their inn room in gridania. "There's your payment... now go! Work! We've discussed the design already." Eirika gestured at Ganun to pay the man to which he obliged. The man pulled out tattooing supplies which he held in a bag and began tattooing the young highlander with the same tattoo his mother had on her face, its significance was unclear; however the highlander tattooist accepted tattooing as part of a highlander tradition and simply did his job and didn't ask questions. When he finished he simply bowed and took his leave. "Now we can find him later darling... I do hope that makes you feel better about this." She twisted a lock of hair around her finger. "Now let's go" Ganun nodded and replied sullenly. "Our wares are packed and are outside already." He looked down at the ground. "Oh that's simply wonderful, now carry this!" He grunted as she tossed a bag of her clothes into his arms. The two highlanders exited the gridanian inn room and left to embark on their mercantile journey to Ul'dah.</spoiler>

'''Something Naughty''' - 10 
<spoiler>Holding a roll of paper in one hand and a stick of charcoal held between his teeth, Gerik began to climb a young tree in the Twelveswood. The cool breeze felt good against his skin. It had been three years since his parents disappeared. He touched the tattoo on his face almost nostalgicly; reflecting for a moment, but just a moment because it got interrupted by him expelling the charcoal from his mouth. "What to draw today?" he thought to himself. Thoughts ran through his head of possible ideas, but he eventually settled on a fluffy marmot on the grass below. "Guess it's another marmot today." Slowly he used the charcoal to render his masterpiece. When he was done, he climbed back down and headed back to the acorn orchard. "Oh my isn't this lovely it's an uh. imperial warship, or maybe it's an uh a pair of woman's bloomers..." The orphanage worker strained to see what exactly it was that Gerik drew. She turned the paper horizontally and vertically but could make no sense of what it was. "Is that something naughty?" She pointed to a blunt looking appendage attached to an unrecognizable blob. "No ma'am, that's a tail, it's a marmot." He gave her a charcoal-covered toothy smile; in return she forced one herself and replied "Why don't you take this?" The elezen woman reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook she had been using to keep her grocery list in. "You can keep your drawings in it." Gerik reached for it excitedly. "Boy! Thanks lady!" Another charcoal-covered grin was flashed at her. She sighed and hung her head. "I've told you six times already my name is Elimine." When she raised her head again, he was already halfway to the Blue Badger Gate.</spoiler>

'''Azeyma's Candle''' - 15 
<spoiler>"The festival is here!" A teenaged roegadyn gestured happily and pointed to a large fireworks machine. A group of similarly aged orphans from the acorn orchard gathered around him. Gerik looked up in wonder at the aerial fireworks, they looked like jewels bursting into the sky. "Aderyn, wait up!" The teenaged roegadyn turned around and beckoned for Gerik to join the group. When he caught up, Aderyn put his hand around Gerik's shoulder and they proceeded to walk toward the festival grounds. The motley group of orphans pooled all the gil they could scrounge up with and bought an assortment of fireworks: some red, some yellow, and some blue. Exclamations of joy could be heard from the group. Over the course of four hours, they used up all their fireworks and decided to use the big fireworks machine set in place for the festival instead. "Wanna climb up on the oak atrium for a better view?" Gerik tugged on Aderyn's sleeve. "Sure, you have the best ideas Gerik!" The two climbed onto the roof sat together and smiled in wonder at how much closer the fireworks were. An Azeyma's candle bursted in front of the pair, exploding in a myriad of colors. Just then, Gerik's hand accidentally landed on Aderyn's while readjusting himself out of a cross-legged position. "S-sorry" Gerik was about to pull his hand off Aderyn's, but Aderyn slowly pulled his hand out from under and placed it atop Gerik's. The two made eye contact for a while and Gerik slowly went in for a kiss. Noticing gerik's advance, Aderyn also slowly moved toward the highlander. It lasted but for a few seconds, then the two sat speechless on the roof of the Oak Atrium. Gerik smiled slightly all the while. Aderyn was the first to speak "Y-y'know I'm not like that, I like girls." Gerik frowned and looked off to the side, remaining silent. Aderyn continued "I'm gonna marry a nice elezen girl one day a-and we're gonna have lots of kids." He stood up and took a look another look at Gerik before climbing down the roof. Gerik pulled his knees up to his chest wrapped his arms around them and let out a deep sigh. </spoiler>

'''Logs''' - 17 
<spoiler>“So I just swing at it like that?” Gerik grinned at the Roegadyn he knew as Opyltyl. Opyltyl looked back at him and sighed. “Aye, don’t forget to ask for the elementals’ forgiveness... and do you always have to stick your tongue out when you swing?” Gerik shrugged and swung his hatchet at the tree again. He liked the way the doublet vest he bought looked on him. Of course, he decided he needed to look good for his first day at the Greatloam Growery which is why he spent most of his gil on it, plus it showed off his muscular arms, Gerik liked his arms. Opyltyl left soon after to manage the Growery. A loud yawn left his lips a few hours later and a warm, inviting-looking patch of grass caught his eye. Looking down at his meager stack of logs, he sighed and dropped his hatchet on the ground and started walking over and stretching for a nap. </spoiler>

== '''''Pre-Dalamud Summary''''' ==
Gerik's story starts with a nap. The clearing he had been laying in was warm, breezy, and most importantly, he found his favorite type of moss to lay on, for it was more spongy than the other varieties that lived on the forest floor. His snores could probably be heard from quite a while away. His boss at the Greatloam Growery had been checking up on Gerik more frequently these days since he'd often discovered that throughout the workday Gerik would wander off somewhere and take a nap. Stumbling upon Gerik in the clearing, he pulled out a flyer and a bit of plant based adhesive from his pocket and walked over to the napping Highlander. He fixed the flyer onto Gerik's forehead with the adhesive and walked away shaking his head.

Three bells or so later, Gerik awoke to find a piece of parchment stuck to his forehead, he tried to pull it off, but only succeeded in ripping the portion not directly attached to the glue off. "Shimmersong - Mercenary Company", the flyer read, curious to see what the company was about, he went to Owl's Nest and it was there that he first met Ariel Madaellyn and Yssen Van. After a lengthy interview process that intimidated Gerik to no end, he was accepted. His first mission as a mercenary was with House Mavanix; during the mission a fight broke out, Gerik primarily served as a utility role protecting the young Miyuki Tatsugawa and after the battle was when he first met Kylin Mavanix, albeit unofficially. A week or so later, another Mavanix mission came in. This time a demon named Juravis threatened the group and it needed to be slain. During this mission he met Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn and took a romantic interest in him almost immediately, being one of the few gay Roegadyns he's ever met.

Shortly after this mission, Gerik had a run in with Ysa Van, Yssen's mentally unstable sister. A fight was avoided however, and Gerik stayed in the Corvus Cinis HQ that night with Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn. Unfortunately, Gerik has never seen Sydalyr again after that and figured that Syd was just uninterested in him. Shimmersong's ranks began to bolster; Kylin Mavanix, Seohyun Iyasu and Derrick Rickkon were recruited into Shimmersong. Through Seohyun, he was introduced to Deirdre Ta'ea albeit briefly in her apartment in Limsa Lominsa. Gerik and Kylin never officially met for a while. During their first meeting Kylin and he were fast friends and this is when Gerik made a deal with Kylin to show Kylin his sketchbook in exchange for swimming lessons.

The Aleport beach was where they spent their time swimming. Gerik felt a chemistry between the two but didn't act on it, afraid of being rejected again like with Sydalyr. Gerik ran into Deirdre on the beach one day, She asked Gerik to hold her underwater, he initally said no, but then complied no matter how confused he was.

Ysa attacked Gerik again shortly thereafter in Limsa Lominsa and wanted to know about Deirdre. Gerik hesitated to give her information initially however eventually yielded when she stabbed and dislocated his shoulder. Gerik called for Kylin over the Crystalline pearl and was met with the voice of a compassionate duskwight woman. Eva stitched his wound and took care of the dislocation, since then he's felt a certain debt to her. Soon thereafter, Deirdre and Gerik went into hiding from Ysa on the cliffs of La Noscea under Oschon's Torch, there she began training him in combat, specifically, with the knife.

After Deirdre attacked Gerik out of mental instability, Kylin took Gerik to his sister Elza's cabin in Gridania where they lived for a while. Gerik and Kylin also began a relationship in this time, but it was not to last.

During the Felstar Gala chaos ensued, aether erupted from the very ground beneath the attendees. Kylin was one of the ones that got sucked down into its abyss. Gerik and Deirdre regrouped at Elza's cabin mourning the losses of Kylin and Shurin, neither of them left the cabin or spoke for several days. Deirdre and Gerik fled for the Isles of Umbra when monsters started attacking the city-states because of Dalamud's proximity. It is there they spend their last days before the fall of Dalamud.

== '''''FFXIV: A Realm Reborn''''' ==
----
==== '''''Year One:''''' ====
'''''Lamb Sausage Is Discovered:''''' <spoiler>Gerik strained his head to look back at the shore they were only twenty or thirty fulms out, but it felt like forever since they departed the Limsa docks. His rope restraints becoming more uncomfortable, but he tried to relax and enjoy the ride. He didn’t mind this positon, being tied face-down to the back of a Roegadyn; the Roegadyn’s back was comfortably warm.

The Captain of the boat “Ram’s Head” was Iawu, or “Wu” for short; a burly Hellsguard Roegadyn. “You doing all right back there? Don’t be gettin’ seasick or nothin’ or my back is gonna be covered in whatever’s in your stomach.”

Gerik managed a chuckle having relaxed significantly because of Wu’s kindness. Still he strained to look at Limsa Lominsa, trying to look for a blue haired Elezen. He thought he caught a glimpse of her for a second, but it was just what looked like a muscular man’s long blue wig blowing off in the sea breeze.

The waves rocked the boat back and forth, Wu seemed to know exactly how to steer a ship through choppy waters; it was sort of nice despite the thunder and lightning emanating from the sky above them.

“H-Hey.” Wu tensed up all of a sudden. “What’s that?”

Gerik snapped his attention from Limsa’s docks, to the horizon. Nothing. “What’s what?”

Wu looked back at Gerik sternly. “I know for a fact that I didn’t pack no lamb sausage in the back of my pants this mornin’.”
“Well.. the rocking.. and you’re so warm..” Gerik trailed off.

Wu grinned, “S’all right, I know how it is being a man.. Just don’t go drizzlin’ me with your baby gravy, I paid a lot for these pants.”

Some Bells Later –

Gerik opened his eyes from a nap, surprised by the bleakness of the sky, Dalamud seemed to glow stranger than usual. “Must be starting soon.”

Wu nodded. “I think we might be far enough from the impact zone now, but I’ll keep pressing further.”

Gerik squinted at Dalamud, “Hey, Wu, look at that..”

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. Nothing too out of the ordinary. “Look at what now?”

Gerik flashed a wide grin at Wu. “You don’t have a lamb sausage down your pants anymore”

Wu smiled, rolled his eyes, and turned back to the wheel. “Boy, and it only took a few bells to do so!”

To their left a large splash erupted, a few passengers on the ship ran to look at the commotion. When they realized that it was a fragment of Dalamud, they fled for cover below the bridge. More fragments came flying their way, most hitting the water far away. Gerik breathed a sigh of relief.

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. “What the – Are those wings?”

Gerik gripped Wu’s torso. “It’s coming closer.”

In an instant the giant wyrm was overhead and seemed to be en route to Limsa.

“You’d best hold on tight, Gerik.” Wu braced himself against the ship’s rail.
A massive wave took hold of the ship and with a fierce speed smashed it into the Procession of Terns. Luckily when the ship was destroyed Wu managed to wedge himself between the railing and the walkway of the procession with Gerik still affixed to his back. Wu himself had a small plank of wood impaled through his left calf, Gerik got off mostly unscathed save various cuts and bruises. Wu had been knocked unconscious by one of the ship’s support beams.

Gerik looked over at the direction in which the massive wyrm flew. “Deirdre...”
</spoiler> [[File:GerikHoney.png|right]]

'''''New Beginnings'''''
<spoiler>It had been a week since the tidal wave hit Limsa Lominsa. People were still looking and grieving for loved ones. A few rays of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the first rays anyone had seen in days. Gerik had been holed up in Iawu’s home in Limsa Lominsa. It was a long week.

“You’ll be alright laying here Wu?” Gerik touched Wu’s leg gingerly. He had just rebandaged the wound.

“Aye, that pretty nurse comes by regularly, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” Wu says with a grin.

“Pretty nurse… ” Gerik thought for a moment. “I thought there was only a MALE midlander nurse that came by here? You never told me you…”

“You never asked.” Wu finished quickly. “But anyway, you had best go, I know you want to look for Deirdre.” He tossed Gerik a sack of gil. “S’what Deirdre ordered me to give to you.”

Gerik caught the sack, nearly dropping it in the process. “Oh, this is the gil..” He kneeled down and reached into the sack, pulling out whatever could fit in his hand and stuffed it down Wu’s pocket. “For breaking my fall.” Before leaving, he flashed Iawu a small grin.

---
Gerik pulled the mint green scarf over his chin as he began his journey outside of Limsa Lominsa taking only a moment to glance back at the battered city-state as the wind billowed.
</spoiler>

'''''New Beginnings II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik made his way to Carteneau astonished at the remnants of the battle. Already he'd stumbled upon several corpses, each in varying states of decay. Although he'd never admit it, he cried at the sight of each, thinking any of them could have been be his friend once. Weapons occasionally occasionally served as beacons that glittered in the sun. The highlander came across a bow made of a strange purple stone, it needed a restringing, but otherwise it seemed to work fine. he picked it up and slung it over his shoulder. A short prayer was uttered to ask for forgiveness to take this bow and to offer peace to whomever once held it. He spent the entire day looking for a body with long blue hair, one of these days he vowed to come back with flowers in honor of the dead. The area was a wasteland, he was the only one alive and walking in the area with only corpses to greet him.

He saw a midlander cadaver that he thought was his friend Blade, he was slumped over on his massive axe, and it looked like he was missing an arm as well as half his face. Resisting the urge to sob again, he reached into his bag to find something appropriate to offer as his condolences. Finding nothing of worth, Gerik settled on placing his lunch: two boiled eggs and a few Mizzenmast Biscuits, at the knees of the man. Then he made a ring of stones around him, to signify that someone did care about him. However, Gerik never found who he was looking for. Disheartened, he turned around and headed to Gridania.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Two:''''' ====

'''''Can you Even Lift?'''''
<spoiler>"So, moving on then, do you have any weaknesses?"

"Hmmm, well I don't like getting stung by bees, if that's what you mean." Gerik shifted uncomfortably in the ash chair. "Oh! Also I haven't really tasted honey that much previously."

His elezen interviewer grimaced, unsure what to do with his responses. "Uhh.. so do you have any previous experience with beekeeping?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I used to get stung by bees a lot, that's how I know I don't like it." Rolling up his left sleeve, he pointed to an area on his arm where a bee had stung him. "I think this was the most recent, a few years ago maybe."

She stared blankly. "I just... I don't think you're qualified. But we don't have any other applicants, so I guess you're hired? Wait, you can lift at least one of those hives right?"

"Easily, probably." He looked through the window behind her at the wooden crate-looking hive.

"Oh, would you mind demonstrating, just for proof?" She turned around to fetch him some protective gear but was confused to find out that he'd left the shack, probably because of his impatient expectancy to demonstrate himself competent at the job.

She heard yelling coming from outside and immediately knew what had happened. He had tried to pick up an already populated hive.</spoiler>

'''''Honey Straight from the Hive'''''
<spoiler>"Just draw the bowstring back like this, and hold it. Hold your breath and take in your surroundings. Keep the scene in your mind. You may let go now, slowly." Calloused fingers touched the highlander's shoulder. "You've done well today, keep practicing."

Gerik looked confusedly in reciprocation and released the string just as she had told him. "But I didn't shoot anything."

"Ah, but you did. You just don't know it yet." The elderly elezen woman patted his head of hair. "You young people are so impatient nowadays."

"Hm.. Well ok. Same time tomorrow then?" He handed her a satchel that jingled with the sound of glass.

Her eyes widened as she opened the satchel. "Oh goody, my favorite, honey straight from the hive." She smacked her lips, "And how creative, you left part of the honeycomb in the jar. Momma's got to buy some toast to enjoy this with!" She tapped her chin with her bony fingers. "Yes, same time tomorrow. By the way, where did you get your bow, it's very, how do you say, unique?"

"I actually found it when looking for a friend.. Up in Mor Dhona. I guess someone dropped it or something." He handed he the bow, figuring that she wanted to see it for a better inspection.

She delivered a loud slap. "A dead man's bow?! What were you thinking?! Her nostrils flared as she exhaled.

Gerik recoiled after her slap and rubbed his stinging bicep, "Oww...that hurt."

She knocked on the bow, "Such an odd material wouldn't you say? Definitely not wood, some sort of stone, perhaps? Still, at least it's a longbow, wouldn't want a man like you to be using a sissy miqo'te shortbow." She chuckled at her comment bemusedly. "Hell maybe I would have ripped this bow out of some poor sap's dying hands too!"
</spoiler>

'''''"BZZZZZ"'''''
<spoiler>“The... bee goes Bzzzzzz?” Gerik raises an eyebrow at Iawu. “Is that… is that me getting stung on the ass?”

Iawu let out a hearty laugh. “Aye, was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Gerik stifled a laugh by biting his tongue, trying to appear serious. “W-well how couldn’t I? It’s just there… in the open, you even used the crack in the book as my buttcrack, what kind of kids book is this anyway?”

Iawu flipped through the pages of another copy and answered rather pointedly. “It’s an alphabet book, B is for Bee, D’you think it’s any good?”

After looking at his illustrated ass from every angle one could possibly imagine with a book, Gerik shifted his gaze back at Iawu whilst cracking a grin. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that story about me and the Honey Yard. And I didn’t get stung on the ass, I got stung on the uh… my...” Gerik furrowed his brows, thinking. “This thingy!” He points to his tailbone.

Iawu shrugged. “Close enough!” He took a seat and began flipping through the book again. “What sound d’you reckon an imp makes?”

Gerik’s face shifted from pensive to dumbfounded over a period of tics. “How’s this?” Gerik tucked his hands under his armpits and flapped imaginary imp wings. “SKREE SKREE!”

Iawu continued staring, even after Gerik’s sound effects. “Wow… I gotta say, that was… that was awful.”

Gerik crossed his arms. “Well you do it then.”

Iawu set the book on the table adjacent to his seat and got up, briefly adjusting his glasses. He brings his hands up to shoulder height and begins flapping them furiously. “TIIII, TIIII!” He stopped suddenly when he caught a glimpse of an old woman staring at them through the window.

“I-I was going to offer you some popotoes… but I think I’ll give them to that harlot next door instead…” The old woman chewed her lower lip for a while before adjusting her bra and walking away.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Three:''''' ====
'''''Men's Underwear'''''
<spoiler>The rain left Gerik's hair like dew covered grass. He hadn't expected how enjoyable it would be to work at the honey yard. Despite a painful start, he quickly learned the practice of beekeeping, and in fact, he enjoyed it immeasurably. He ran his hand through his hair before starting to harvest the honey from a nearby hive. Thoughts of several years ago flooded his head, mostly of Dalamud. He had always wondered where all the familiar faces that he was so accustomed to seeing went; where was Kylin, where was Deirdre, where was Blade? He plucked a bee out of the honey, it had mistakenly flown in.

Gerik sealed off the jar and headed back inside. "I've got the last batch harvested, should I just deliver this stuff now?" He licked his finger after noticing some vestigial honey lingered.

A red haired wildwood woman lifted her eyes from the paper she had been reading. "Oh my.. You're so very fast, I'd even dare to say you're one of the best workers here." Sauntering over she removed her glasses.

Flashing her a grin and glancing behind himself quickly, he decided "I um.. I think I'll just deliver these."

The wildwood woman eyed him up and down before taking his hand and brought it up to her lips.

Gerik was a rigid plank of wood, he cringed at her advances, but she was his superior. Her tongue was a snake slithering over the finger he had licked prior. "Right um.. I think it's, it's.." Gerik shifted uncomfortably. "Look, the new Lalafell employee is stealing the honey!" As the eleven woman spun around to look outside the window, he took his delivery and ran.

---

"This seems like the place..?" A large Uldahn mansion that had seen better days stood in his path. He took the knocker in his hand, but the door opened before he could bring it down, a sophisticated looking highlander woman met his gaze and answered rather pointedly.

"Baelhyn residence, this is Etienne."

"Oh, ah I'm here for the delivery, yeah?"

"I see. Please bring it this way, and leave your shoes outside, they are filthy."

She led him past the foyer and into the kitchen. What looked like a mansion that would have employed a full retinue of retainers was empty and lonely.

"Please leave it here." Her gloved hand pointed to a countertop, as he approached she began to develop a displeased expression on her face. "When was the last shower you had? Your very smell is causing me to age."

Taken aback by her comment, Gerik paused for an inordinate amount of time before placing the jars on the counter. "Walking from Gridania to Ul'dah isn't a short walk, yeah?"

She seemed to ignore his last comment,"Why, I feel as though I should do the greater community a service and allow you a shower."
"Thanks? I think."

Gerik stood still, still unsure of what transpired. When he snapped back, he realized the woman was already down the hallway.

"You will have to use the master's bathroom, I am afraid the other bathrooms are in disrepair at this moment in time." Producing a plush towel from her right hand, she opened the door to the ornately decorated bathroom and let him inside. "Do not steal anything, I know exactly how many soaps and miscellaneous bath accessories we have." With that she turned on her heel and closed the door behind her, tawny brown hair trailing after.

Gerik removed off his shirt and pants quickly, however he decided to examine the bathroom a little closer, it had been a long while since he'd seen a posh bathroom like this, he eagerly opened all the soaps and sniffed them, and then looked though the drawers. In one he found what looked like a collection men's underwear. He looked behind him making sure Etienne wasn't behind him. Quickly he removed his own underwear and pulled up the one he found; grinning, he modeled for himself in the mirror.

"Ahem."
A well dressed man stood in the doorway.
"My, when the cat is away, the mice will certainly play."
</spoiler>

'''''Men's Underwear Part II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik turned around to catch a glimpse of the man who possessed the assertive baritone voice.
A clean-cut highlander man stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around his waist; sun-kissed skin glowing from the afternoon sun. “So I suppose this is what the menial labor of Eorzea has come to, trying on others’ clothes and doing as they please in another’s house.”

Gerik twiddled his thumbs. “Ah, sorry.. I didn’t mean to-.”
A smirk crossed the noble’s lips, and slowly his mouth distorted as if to hold back laughter, the dam that was his lips eventually gave way and a torrent of laughter followed. Slowly his laughter slackened, Gerik stood dumbfounded at the man throughout the process.

“I’m sorry, you just have no idea how dull these days are; a little excitement is good.” He wiped tears from his eyes. “Usually the only person I ever talk to is Etienne, and I’m quite afraid we’ve run out of things to talk about. Anyway, my name is Issachar, and you are?”

Gerik grinned, happy that the situation didn’t end up with him being arrested. “I’m Gerik, from the Honey Yard, but um.. nice place you got here.”

Issachar nodded and scanned the floor, not seeming to pay attention the latter part of what Gerik said. “So you were going to take a bath, I take it?”

Gerik positioned himself so that he could lean against the sink across the doorway. “Yeah, your assistant kind of dragged me up here.”
“Etienne will definitely do that. She might call me ‘Master’ or what have you, but she’s the real one that runs this estate. But ah, I suppose you don’t need to hear all this, I’ll wait my turn to use the facilities.” With that, he bowed and gently closed the door behind him. “You can keep that underwear by the way!” Issachar projected from the other side of the door.

---

Briefly into his bath, he heard a few knocks on the door. “Mister Gerik, Master Baelhyn wishes to have tea with you after his shower. He has also instructed for me to lay clothes out for you, they are located on the end table outside of this door.”
Smiling at the rhythmic intervals of Etienne’s heels going down the hallway he closed his eyes and soaked in the tub.
</spoiler>

'''''Tea is Served'''''
<spoiler>

Etienne dropped a silver tray laden with a teapot and two teacups abruptly on the table with a loud clank. "Your tea sir." She turned on her heels and walked back to the kitchen.

The two men stared at each other a moment wondering what that minor outburst meant. Issachar broke the silence first. "Forgive her, I assume she's most used to serving nobility. I'm assuming she's taking serving an ah.. how do I say this delicately." Issachar murmured to himself. "Ah, there it is, working class member. She's taking serving a working class member as an affront to her station, or that's what I'm presuming anyway."

Gerik stopped mixing honey into his tea briefly to look back at Issachar. "I can go, if it's making her feel bad, yeah?"

"No, no, you're fine. Hell, for all I know, we might be members of this working class soon, my parents' business ventures haven't been going very well with me at the wheel." Issachar shrugged nonchalantly and sipped at his tea. "I mean, if the state of this house isn't an indicator."

"It's not so bad, I can get you a job at the Honey Yard." Gerik smirked and leaned back in his chair and gestured to the jar of honey sitting on the glass tea table. "It's more difficult than it seems to harvest that."

Issachar feigned a scoff. "Such a lowly position has no place with these noble hands!" When his attempt at a joke failed and Gerik looked more confused than anything, the highborn highlander tried to revive the conversation again. "I uh.. that was my attempt at being humorous, my apologies for offending. Truth be told, I'd enjoy experiencing that."

"You will do no such thing." Etienne's encroaching footsteps alerted the two to her position, she carried a tray of fruit tarts. "You need to consider your parents' legacy, may they rest in peace, before you go off gallivanting with some man you just met a few hours ago, I will not be selling myself off in the streets like those Concern girls." She shot Gerik a deadly look before placing the tray onto the table.

"Well why not? I mean it's good work." Gerik replied, a bit more defensive than he would have liked.

"I am afraid I will not be dignifying that with a response." She crossed her arms and looked away.

Issachar laughed profusely before breaking into a coughing fit. "Look at you two, like an old married couple." He was the only one that chuckled at his own joke. "But I suppose you're right, I do need to attend to business." Issachar fiddled with his cravate. "Tell you what Gerik, why don't make an arrangement where you come by and visit weekly or so?"
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Four:''''' ====

'''''Becoming a Tree'''''
<spoiler>A dapper man stepped out behind an ornate changing screen. "Well, how is it?" He ran his hands over the satiny fabric covering his chest. "I'm not quite so fond of this collar."

"Mister Issachar, it's fine. I hired the best seamstresses at sunsilks, they even embroidered your family crest into it." A silver marmot laid at the cuff of his left sleeve.

"Oh, that's what that is." He ran his fingers over the embroidery. "This is supposed to represent my family's fur trade, yeah?"

Etienne rolled her eyes. "You've been starting to speak like that... like that uncouth delinquent ever since you allowed him to commandeer the guest bedroom."

The royal purple bowtie gleamed like an amethyst as Issachar straightened it. Peering through the mirror at Etienne he smirked. "Be nicer to him, won't you?"

She made a sigh and gave him an acidic look. "Shall I make arrangements for Lady Ardris to escort you? I really wish you didn't invite that crude lummox."

The placid expression on his face broke. He coughed. "You mean for that vile, insipid woman to escort me?"

"We have no choice, we're losing gil, do you want us to be out on the streets?! Putting yourself in a position to marry Lady Ardris is the best shot you have at bringing this family back to the wealth it once knew." With a hand on her hips she turned around biting her lip, she hated mandating things to him.

Looking wistfully at the bird that had just perched itself on the windowsill, Issachar answered, "I suppose you're right." A sigh left his lips. "Say, Etienne, what do you suppose of the idea of you taking over my parents' business. If I recall, you're quite proficient at numbers."

"Well, sure, I graduated top of my class at the old Mavanix Academy. But what do you mean to say?" She spun around on her heel to look at him accusingly. "You're just giving up?"

A dignified gait carried the man over to a sofa where he sat and placed a book onto his lap. "Oh come now, let's not sugarcoat things, we both know the time of my eternal sleep is sooner than later... I've put a lot of thought into this, and I think you should be the rightful leader to my parents' legacy, they always did love you like a daughter, just as I've always loved you as a sister." He tapped the book a few times to break the silence that fell after his declaration, "I've been reading this story, the protagonist dies and wants to be buried with a tree to celebrate the metaphorical union of the cycle of life and death. I'd like to think I could go that way too, so very poetic."

With tears welling in her eyes she delivered a hard backhand to his face. "No more of this talk." She took a tic to compose herself and to wipe the tears from her face. "I'll need to prepare Gerik for this society event should you really wish for him to attend with you."

Issachar nodded, holding the side of his face. "... please do."

---

Several rhythmic knocks alerted Gerik to a prescence on the other side of the bathroom door. He put down the rubber chocobo he had been playing with in the bathtub. "Eh? That you Etienne?"

A muffled reply came from the other side of the door. "I so wish that you would stop speaking in that agrarian elocution you love so dearly. When you come out of there I have a few lessons for you."

"What kind of lessons? Are they going to be painful again?" Gerik looked at the burn mark he had on his palm from grabbing an deceptively hot pan.

"Well my goodness, I had no idea I was living with a little girl, and who grabs a cast iron pan without a potholder anyway?!" She struck the door with her hand.

He could hear her tapping her heels to the floor, she was growing impatient. "Alright, alright, I'm coming." He set the rubber chocobo atop the faucet and drained the water from the bathtub.</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Five:''''' ====

'''''Issachar'''''
<spoiler>Issachar collapsed one balmy day in Ul'dah. Everything seemed pleasant enough, his favorite tree in the garden had just grown fruit. Etienne was out conducting business on his behalf, and Gerik was probably out with his Roegadyn friend. It was a shame he'd never gotten to meet this Burgenheim fellow, Gerik told him all about the Roegadyn's enthusiasm for books. Perhaps they could have traded stories. He would concede that he felt jealous of Gerik spending so much time with the man, But it was for the best, they all knew this day would come. Issachar drew up his will just the other week, he had every faith that Etienne would revive his parent's namesake; and Gerik, well, he wanted him to be happy. A percentage was to be skimmed off the top of their profits and sent directly to Gerik, weekly, Etienne was to do this herself; as for the Baelhyn Manor, they were to each own half the rights to the property. it would take a lot of gil to repair things that had fallen to a state of disrepair.

He coughed.

Issachar didn't want to burden them with his inconvenience, it was good that neither of them were home, they could enjoy their time out to the fullest. He stared at the ceiling cursing his ailment, imagining Gerik's skin against his own, his stubble like a cat's tongue running down his chest. And then that first day they had met. He reminisced over the warm honeyed toast they had shared that this morning, honey could certainly only be described as liquid gold. Or even earlier that morning when he spent a good deal of time just happy to be cuddling with the man, his hands intimately embraced around Gerik's chest, he was always so warm, and he loved when Gerik's musk wafted into his nose. Gerik's natural musk was like an open field; it made think him of cobblestones and maybe ash trees, somewhere open and free. Then his vision began to fade, so he closed his eyes. His hearing dulled, so he stopped listening. His breath began to weaken, so he stopped breathing.</spoiler>

'''''Cake'''''
<spoiler>"MY CAKE! WHERE IS IT?!" Etienne tore through the manor like a madwoman. Loud footsteps encroached quickly toward a sleeping Gerik. "DID YOU EAT IT?! DID YOU?!"

He rubbed his eyes lazily and propped himself up on one arm over the sofa. "Ugh.. My brain is telling me you're being way too loud for my hangover right now."

"You did eat it didn't you?! There isn't anything in this house that hasn't been in your mouth at least once!" Her eyes grew large with rancor. "You even ate some of my eye cream! And don't act like I didn't notice, I saw your fingerprints on the patina on the side and there was about a spoonful missing!"

"Hey! It looked like whipped cream, and it was in such a nice little jar!" He sat up, already feeling tense from their constant conflicts ever since he moved in, though lately it had gotten worse.

"Gods, you are one of the most disgusting beings that ever inhabited Hydaelyn! I saved up MOONS for that cake! Not to mention how long it took to get onto the waiting list to even buy it! The Bismarck only makes five of those a year!" Each of her words were punctuated by the stomping sound of her custom made heels. "Well?! Did you eat all of it?!"

"I uh... Nooooo?" Knowing she was right, he scanned the room for the tray it had come in.

"I should have known. You only have about FIVE stomachs in that body of yours." She sighed and pivoted around, "Well, I have a board meeting to attend, but I expect reparations when I return! And clean your room, it looks like the asshole of the Mineral Concern exploded in there!"

A few quick motions of her hands and her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows and her business attire was smoothed over.

As soon as he knew she left the foyer, he trudged over to the kitchen and pulled a little box out of the pantry. Quickly thumbing through the slips of paper, he began to look for a recipe.
</spoiler>

'''''Cake Part II'''''
<spoiler>
Etienne exhaustingly pushed the stained glass door open, she kicked off her heels and continued to walk over to her room. Halfway there she caught a whiff of something heavenly coming from the kitchen. She peeked around the corner and caught sight of Gerik trying to frost what looked like a piece of marmot steak.

His tongue stuck out like an upturned leaf as he paddled icing on with a spoon. Not noticing her peeking in the doorway, he proceeded to apply what looked like wording to the cake. He thought to himself about what happened earlier that day, he had been an ass. He had just been so angry lately. Angry at Etienne, angry at Issachar, but mostly angry at himself. He tried to legibly pipe out "I'm Sorry" on the cake, and mostly achieved legibility. Gerik sighed deeply and looked over at his cake, staring at it a moment before slowly sliding the platter that held the cake to the edge of the counter and dumping it nonchalantly in the trash where all his previous cakes had landed. Leaning against the counter with his back facing Etienne. With a somber look at the trash, Gerik slid to the floor,tucking his knees into his chest.

"You don't need to waste food, you know." Etienne cracked a grin at him. Her hazel eyes looked over the somber looking highlander, he hadn't responded to her remark. "Look, I'm sorry, I've been quite tough on you ever since Issachar took a fancy to you... Well, ever since you first visited really." She tucked a stray piece of tawny hair behind her ear. "It's been tough ever since Mister Baelhyn left, I know."

His eyes had begun to grow glassy. Knowing her stoic analytical nature, he appreciated that she was even trying to make a joke of sorts, but the truth was that he had been incredibly unhappy ever since the death of his lover, Issachar. He nodded through her attempted dialogue with him, but he simply couldn't concentrate.

She sighed and slid onto the the floor next to Gerik, it was covered in flour, but she was beyond the point of caring about her clothes. "You know.. I ordered the cake for the both of us, I wanted us to enjoy it during this tough time. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you." She placed her palm flat on the floor and shifted some flour around.

Without warning, Gerik wrapped his arms around her in an embrace. He buried his tear-streaked face into her shoulder. "N-no, I'm sorry. I just.. I just-"

"I know, I know, I miss him too." She patted him uncomfortably, bodily contact was a pet peeve of hers. Still, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "I think I know something that we can do that would make Issachar happy, I'll be right back." Moments later she returned holding a seed, "I um.. I remember him saying that he wanted to have a tree planted inside his grave. Mind you I don't know what kind of tree this is, but perhaps this will do." Delicately she opened the mans hands and places the seed between his palms. She gave him a half smile before taking a few steps backward. "See to it that you tell that new maid of ours that this mess get attended to."</spoiler>

==== '''''Current''''' ====
(COMING SOON)

== '''''Rumors''''' ==

'''''Common Rumors'''''

*“Aye, that’s the guy I saw at the Bismark, ate nearly 3 plates o’ raw oysters ‘afore passing out in a room at the Mizzenmast.” -Astonished Highlander

*“You remember that one man who came by and chatted me up last week right? Babette told me over linkshell that she just saw him snogging a Roegadyn in the Market Wards, and not a female one! …No, you most certainly cannot watch them Damali!” – Scorned Midlander

*“With a gilded tongue like that, I’m not surprised he’s not got a higher position in society. Don’t even get me started on that nice lookin’ body he’s got.” – Lascivious Roegadyn

*"I heard that guy has a terrible work ethic, sometimes doesn't show up for days! But damn if I can't say no to that smile." - Conflicted Elezen

*"You could probably sell a bridge to that guy, he'll believe whatever you tell him...I guess all looks, no brains? ...Sure was good in bed though." - Disappointed Lalafell

'''''Intermittent Rumors:'''''

*“I heard he grew up at some orphanage in Gridania, why’d ya think his parents would give him up, oooh, maybe he has mental issues, or maybe the moogles brought him to Gridania, or maybe…” – Presumptuous Lalafell

*“The Adventurer’s Guild doesn’t seem to like to hand him leves, supposedly he turns down most of them. Sounds like pure slothfulness to me, what happened to the quality of our adventurers? Back in my day, adventurers weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.” – Elderly Elezen

*"I heard he came into some gil recently, first that rich Mavanix boy, and then that Baelhyn heir.. I bet he's a no-good golddigger!" - Scandalous Elezen

'''''Rare Rumors:''''' 

*“The other week I caught him hanging out with an Ixal near Murmur Rills, looked pretty comfortable with em’. Guess when it comes to friends he don’t discriminate even between beastmen, could probably use that as some damn good blackmail though.” – Scheming Roegadyn

*“You know about those rich aristocrats in Ul’dah right? Apparently that bloke might’ve had some intimate relations with one of them, or one of their sons; whichever, it don’t matter much, anyway it ended sourly. Rarely ventures into Ul’dah now, or at least that’s what I noticed, and I would know! I sell the airship tickets from Gridania!” – Gossipy Elezen

*“Heard his parents might still be alive despite them being off the grid for years. Don’t think he’s interested in trying to locate them though, I think they used to use him just for their benefit and dumped him in Gridania when it got rough.” – Softspoken Midlander

'''''Player Character Rumors (Feel free to add your own!):'''''

* "He is a loyal sort, with a bigger heart than his chest can contain. If you are inquiring after him with intention to harm, I will string you up and flay the flesh from your bones." -[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]

* "I never cared about anyone like I did him. But alas, Nymeia had other plans." -[[Kylin Felstar]]

* "Who? Oh- Yea, he's tall. And.. large? No, really, I've not met him but twice or so.. I can't tell you much about him. If you see him though, tell him I didn't mean to hit him aye?" -[[Aysun Demiir]]

== '''''Affiliations''''' ==

*'''''[[Burgenheim Rousa]]:''''' Gerik's new confidant and best friend, he visited the Corvus Cinis Headquarters nearly every day while living in Ul'dah to visit him. He loves the stories the Roegadyn tells him. Gerik is thankful for the Roegadyn's presence, as Burgenheim was the only friend he had in Ul'dah at the time. As the Sultana bought the old Corvus Cinis estate, Burgenheim is now living in Gerik's guest room.

*'''''[[K'aworu Rhea]]:''''' Gerik found K'aworu after rumors of the "Warriors of Light" reappearing. He brought him to the fane for medical treatment and worked at the Honey Yard to cover his expenses. Recently he's moved into Gerik's Ul'dahn home, much to Etienne's chagrin.

*'''''[[Razeyha'li Venyhs]]:''''' Gerik met Razeyha'li in Gridania while he was looking for herbs for K'aworu. The two spent more time with each other when Razeyha'li offered to venture to Ul'dah with Gerik. A lot of what Razeyha'li says confuses Gerik, but he likes that he at least tries to dumb it down enough for him.

*'''''[[Seohyun Iyasu]]:''''' Seohyun disappeared for 5 years, but recently Gerik's rediscovered her in an unorthodox way. Seohyun and Gerik were set up for an arranged marriage to benefit both of their families.

*'''''[[Kylin Felstar]]:''''' Quite possibly one of the most unexpected friends he's ever had. Kylin didn't turn out to be what Gerik expected a rich entitled heir to be. They had an intense short-lived relationship over a few months; Gerik now believes Kylin is dead due to 5 years of no contact.

*'''''[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]:''''' Deirdre has grown to be a matriarchal figure for Gerik. Despite him not knowing why she often goes out of her way to protect him, he enjoys her company. She's also served as Gerik's mentor of sorts in the art of the dagger. Recently relations between them got more awkward because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years and believes her dead.

*'''''[[Blade Belisaire]]:''''' Blade has been a sort of recurring acquaintance for Gerik; they first met when Gerik tried to pick him up in a bar. He doesn't know much about the man, except that he's been acting a bit.. off, as of lately. He hasn't seen him in 5 years and believes him dead.

*'''''[[Eva Ianeira]]:''''' Gerik finds Eva a very pleasant acquaintance. He doesn't know her that well, however she gave him medical attention after his shoulder had been stabbed and he feels indebted to her to a degree. He'd like to get to know the even-tempered duskwight better. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Ariel Madaellyn]]:'''''At their first meeting, Gerik was very much intimidated by Ariel, she holds such an authoritative aura about her.  However he's begun to let his guard down around her and has decided that she's genuinely a nice person. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Selene Artemis]]:''''' He knows Selene as Blade's girlfriend. The two haven't really gotten to know each other much, but he feels awkward about their relationship because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Yssen Van]]:''''' Very few words have been exchanged between Yssen and Gerik. Previously finding Yssen hypocritical on the topic of his sister and distancing himself between Yssen, he's decided to let the past be the past. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

== '''''Fan Art''''' ==

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the art done of Gerik, and I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to draw him!

<spoiler>

[[File:CJGerik2.jpg]]

[[File:GerikMtotoresize.jpeg]]

[[File:GerikDeirdre.jpeg]]

[[File:CJGerik.jpg]]

[[File:Gerik by michialmasy-d67dx5n.png]]

[[File:NNFCD.jpg]]

[[File:GerikPants.png]]

[[File:Gerikcupcake.png]]

</spoiler>

== '''''Annotations''''' ==

'''''The Sketchbook:''''' Since he was young, Gerik has always kept a sketchbook handy, primarily because of his affinity to drawing.  He's gone through quite a lot over the years (13 total) and keeps them in his lodging with the exception of the one being used, which is always kept on his person.  Many of his sketches are of the creatures that live in Eorzea, as well as men he finds attractive.  He's quite private about the contents of his sketchbook, save for those people he trusts the most.  One of the caretakers at the Acorn Orchard got him his first sketchbook, and since then he's been attached to the idea.

*'''''Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to talk to me about planning an RP or something. Either sending me a /tell in game or a PM on the RPC will work. I'm down for most everything, plus Gerik needs more friends!'''''

If you wanted more stuff to read about Gerik, you could check out these pages on TvTropes: [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GentleGiant Gentle Giant], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DumbMuscle Dumb Muscle], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/MenCantKeepHouse Men Can't Keep House], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TheSlacker The Slacker], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GymBunny Gym Bunny], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/StraightGay Straight Gay].

'''''Actor who would Portray Gerik''''': [http://www.thepictureswarehouse.com/d/72483-1/Marco+Dapper+picture+6.jpg Marco Dapper]

'''''Theme Song''''': [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-gXQqtjBjU Lazy Daydream]

Faith Winter

2013-06-27T02:04:31Z

Gerik: /* Appearance */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Faith Winter
| image = Faithwinterprofile.jpg
| imagewidth = 200
| caption =
| title = House Winter Matriarch
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Hyur
| clan = Midlander
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 24
| stat_2 = Namesday
| stat_2_value = 29th sun of the 6th moon
| stat_3 = Guardian
| stat_3_value = [[Halone, the Fury]]
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Entrepreneur, Gambler
}}
==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>Biographical </center></div>==

''Lady Ariana Faith Winter, or Faith to her friends, is the current Matriarch of House Winter. She devotes herself to the promotion of her House, protecting her friends, and guardian Eorzea against the Garleans... with a little gambling on the side.''

===Name===

'''Full Name:''' Ariana Faith Winter

'''Nicknames''': Faith

'''Origins:''' Ariana is derived from the Welsh word meaning “silver” referring to her light colored hair, however, Faith has always had a preference for her middle name.

===Appearance===

[[File:Stormguard_tattoo.png|thumb|right|Stormguard Tattoo on Faith's Shoulder Blade]]

'''Height:''' ~5'3"

'''Weight:''' ~118 lbs

'''Body:''' Faith has a petite, yet curvy figure which is well toned after years of training and working out. She often uses her pleasing physical form to charm and seduce others into getting what she wants.

'''Hair:''' Pale blonde with soft, fiery tipped highlights. She is known for her long ponytail adorned with a braided crown, the symbol of power for the Winter family females. Of late she has been seen wearing her hair flowing down over her shoulders or in intricate braids.

'''Eyes:''' Pale blue left eye, sapphire blue right eye.

'''Skin:''' Tanned and oiled daily with no apparent scars.

'''Clothing:''' Faith takes extra care to make sure her clothing always suits the occasion. When attending charity events or at gambling functions she prefers sleek, black dresses with detailed designs and jewelry of the highest quality. During office hours she wears designer bliauds, with skirts and custom made high heels. She is often seen wearing loose fitted, light cloth when training at the Platinum Mirage or around her friends.

'''Marks:''' Faith has a single tattoo on her right shoulder blade, a constant reminder of her past in the Order of the Stormguard.

==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>History </center></div>==

''Unable to obtain the ‘perfection’ of her older sister, Lady Seraphine “Arcadia” Rose Winter, Faith Winter spent her teen years living up to her reputation as a constant troublemaker, gambler and bruiser. She used her charm and charisma to organize illegal fighting matches and managed the career of her adopted brother and famed boxer, Ravirr Shiga. Faith had an addiction to theft, especially when it could be used to annoy those she decided to amuse herself with. Much of Faith’s efforts were put into studying lock picking combined with breaking and entering She trained her pet star marmot, Jackpot, to assist in her thefts. Her one redeeming trait seemed to be her generosity. Faith would give not only her own money, but any gambling winnings she acquired, to the poor in the streets of Ul’dah. The commonfolk and poor respected her and often protected her from The Brass Blades... but for the most part the name “Faith Winter” was synonymous with “trouble”.

After the supposed death of her older sister, Faith Winter became the Matriarch of House Winter. This change was met with blatant hostilities due to Faith’s reputation as a street rat and her troubles with the law. For the first few months of her appointment, Faith locked herself away in the Winter family home, only leaving to visit Cartius Felstar, and choosing to speak to no one outside the walls of the estate. To all connected with the family it seemed apparent that the success and glamour of House Winter died with Seraphine in fiery flames...

And then Winter came...

The Markets of Ul’dah suddenly became flooded with powerful and exquisite accessories the likes of which had never been seen, all bearing the Winter Ice brand. For the first time in House Winter’s long history, elegant, high quality accessories were no longer designed exclusively for the social elite, but were now available for the general public. Donations to charitable causes and construction on a public library began, all in the name of House Winter. Wild rumors began to circulate that Lady Seraphine Winter must be back from the dead as no one could be as talented or kind-hearted. The press surrounded the Winter estate, clamoring for a glimpse inside the walls and demands for an exclusive story caused near riots outside the grounds.

In response to the demands of the press and public, invitations were sent out across Eorzea to a gala event at both the Felstar and Winter Estate in Ul’dah. Each invitation was accompanied with a dazzling sapphire snowflake set in a platinum band for the mysterious host’s guests. On the night of the gala, both royalty and adventurers alike were greeted by a winter wonderland recreated in Ul’dah. Snow fell from the skies above the estate, an ice skating rink had been set up, the last of Winterborne’s castes had been opened and no expense spared to ensure each guest was pampered. Across the street from the Winter manor, the Felstar Estate also hosted a gala commemorating a piece designed by Faith dedicated to the Warriors of Light which would be donated to the Avalon Heritage Museum. Several artifacts that had been uncovered due to the efforts of both Houses were also displayed.

At last when the moment came to unveil the hostess of the party the figure who eloquently descended the staircase of the ballroom adorned with stunning gems and stylish black dress was not Seraphine but... Faith Winter.

Since that time, Faith has become a media darling, her face appearing in the papers on a frequent basis. With the return of her sister, Seraphine Winter Felstar, and the support of Cartius Felstar, Faith’s popularity has only increased over the last four years. Winter Ice has become a sensation in Ul’dah and the remaining bottles of Wintersong have become worth a Sultana’s fortune. With the success of the wine and the true return Seraphine, Faith Winter has began repair on the old vineyard estate, Winterborne. In addition to the success of her businesses, Faith has become known as a beloved philanthropist. She has opened a school in Ul’dah which welcomes all students, no matter what their social status, as well as a public library. Recently Faith has become increasingly active in the fight against the Garleans, wishing to protect her beloved homeland from enemy invasion.

Things seemed to be going well for Faith, until one day she received a message from Rynn Limley, an old Outer Heaven member pleading for help...
''

===Skills===

*Other:

'''Swordplay:'''

'''Knowledge:'''

'''Weaknesses:'''

===Likes===
* Public Relations - Whether it's a new line of accessories, work for the public school, or charity, Faith is at her best when using her charms.
* Fashion - She takes great pride in the appearance she presents even when working out. Whether it's formal or casual, her clothing is of good quality, well pressed and tailored to fit. When working out at the Platinum Mirage she prefers light cloth, but can often be seen wearing sleek, black silk dresses to charity events or gambling functions. She designs all her jewelry personally in order to ensure it is tasteful, yet stands out, wanting all her pieces to be noticed immediately.
* Theft - Faith is a recovering thief who steals not for any material gain, but more for the excitement and “rush” it brings her. Stealing gives her satisfaction akin to sexual acts and can become dangerously addictive to her. For the past five years Faith has curved her propensity towards kleptomania as well as breaking and entering in order to uphold the Winter name.
* Gambling - Often seen at the high stakes gambling tables at the Platinum Mirage and casinos around Ul’dah, Faith enjoys taking risks. A master of sleight of hand, Faith has perfected a one handed shuffling technique she uses as a distraction to amuse crowds at the table.
* Protecting others - After the death of her siblings, Faith adamantly defends the remaining members of old Stormguard and Outer Heaven.

===Dislikes===
* Garleans - As the Garlean forces move closer to Faith's vineyard in Limsa and set their sights upon Ul'dah, Faith has become increasingly active in the war.
* Cold and ice - Faith was raised in the hot desert sands of Ul’dah and thus the only kind of ice she likes are measured in carats.
* Fire - After losing her entire family in flames and barely escaping the attack on her sister’s manor, Faith is terrified of fire.
* The Brass Blades - Although Faith has been on the straight and narrow for years, with excellent standing in the community, the police force in Ul’dah still make her nervous whenever she meets them.

===Demeanor===
Faith’s personality is as warm and wandering as an Ul’dah breeze. Easily approachable, she is quick to make friends and form alliances. She exudes charm and is at her best when with others, but her need to keep things interesting often drags her friends into strange adventures. Over the past five years she has also developed a passion for reading history and loves listening to people’s life stories. However, her interest in boxing, fights at the Blood Sands, and gambling has not wavered. Those close to Faith have come to expect the unexpected when dealing with her. She is an optimistic and hopeful person, always seeking truth and happiness, although she does not always succeed. Faith follows her own deep moral compass, always trying to do what she feels is right - not the right thing society tells her to do.

After receiving a message from Rynn Limley, Faith has come to realize the importance of the people who were members of the Order of the Stormguard and Outer Heaven. She spends her free time researching their whereabouts and is fiercely protective of those she finds. Opening her home to those who need it, Faith regards her friends as her most treasured asset.

Faith’s love life lies between athleticism and intellectualism. She enjoys a person who can not only be physically active and enjoys adventure, but can also appreciate long talks over wine about life, philosophy or current events. When it comes to relationships, Faith is attracted to those who she see as her equal in charm, charisma and passion. She prefers to be with someone who can work a crowd as easily as she does and is not threatened if she spends time with her friends. Always up for a challenge, she likes her partner to have the stamina to keep up with her ventures. In private, Faith is a devoted, loyal and adventurous lover. Although she appreciates class and respect in public, Faith is a loyal and creative lover. She makes the person she is with a part of her and is always considerate of their happiness and expects the same from the person she is with.

==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>Relationships </center></div>==

====Family====

*'''Father:''' Unknown, Cartius Felstar is the nearest thing to a father she has.

*'''Mother:''' Lady Rebecca Winter (deceased)

*'''Siblings:''' [[Seraphine Winter Felstar]], Gabrielle Winter, [[Ravirr Shiga]]

*'''Other:''' [[Kylin Felstar]], [[Elza Felstar]]

'''*More pending post ARR launch~'''

==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>Other Notes </center></div>==

<table style='position:center;'>
<tr>
<td style='width:50%;padding-right:10px' valign='top'>

===<center><div style='padding:4px 35px; background: rgb(50, 50, 50);font-size:14px; color: rgb(213, 200, 185); font-family: century gothic; text-shadow: 3px 3px 3px rgb(68, 148, 185), 8px 8px 8px rgb(129, 200, 209);'>The Rumor Mill </div></center>===
<div style='border:1px solid rgb(255, 255, 255); padding:8px;'>

*'''Common Rumors (Easily overheard):'''
** "Did you see the dress Lady Winter wore at the Full Cold Moon last year? - Perfection!"
** "He looks different than he used to. Didn't he have a tattoo on his face at one time? And his hair is so much different. He's cert"Winter Ice accessories are all the rage in Ul’dah! Faith is a visionary!"
** "Lady Winter plans to reopen the family vineyard in Wineport. They say one bottle will be worth a sultan’s ransom!"

*'''Moderate Rumors (Moderately difficult to overhear):'''
** "Lady Winter’s school is revolutionizing education in Ul’dah, but she lets the poor attend for free! She’ll be arrested for that, you just watch!"
** "People say Cartius Felstar was actually responsible for all the atrocities against House Mavanix years ago. Faith’s so close to Cartius do you think she was involved?"
** "Did you hear Faith won a fifteen million at the Mirage last night? - Her luck is incredible! She has to be cheating!"

*'''Rare Rumors (Very difficult to overhear):'''
** “The real Faith Winter died during some kind of fire. The Garlean’s replaced her with a spy!”
** "I heard that tattoo on her back means she’s the leader of a religious cult!"

*'''PC Rumors (Player created rumors--feel free to add your own!):'''
**
**
**

</div>
</td>

<td style='width:50%;padding-right:10px' valign='top'>

===<center><div style='padding:4px 35px; background: rgb(50, 50, 50);font-size:14px; color: rgb(213, 200, 185); font-family: century gothic; text-shadow: 3px 3px 3px rgb(68, 148, 185), 8px 8px 8px rgb(129, 200, 209);'>Miscellaneous Info </div></center>===
<div style='border:1px solid rgb(255, 255, 255); padding:8px;'>

*'''Character Inspirations:'''
** Faith Lehane -- http://buffy.wikia.com/wiki/Faith_Lehane
** Amanda Darieux -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amanda_(Highlander)
** Vesper Lynd -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesper_Lynd

*'''Theme Song:''' http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnzgdBAKyJo

Faith Winter

2013-06-27T02:02:50Z

Gerik: /* Appearance */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Faith Winter
| image = Faithwinterprofile.jpg
| imagewidth = 200
| caption =
| title = House Winter Matriarch
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Hyur
| clan = Midlander
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 24
| stat_2 = Namesday
| stat_2_value = 29th sun of the 6th moon
| stat_3 = Guardian
| stat_3_value = [[Halone, the Fury]]
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Entrepreneur, Gambler
}}
==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>Biographical </center></div>==

''Lady Ariana Faith Winter, or Faith to her friends, is the current Matriarch of House Winter. She devotes herself to the promotion of her House, protecting her friends, and guardian Eorzea against the Garleans... with a little gambling on the side.''

===Name===

'''Full Name:''' Ariana Faith Winter

'''Nicknames''': Faith

'''Origins:''' Ariana is derived from the Welsh word meaning “silver” referring to her light colored hair, however, Faith has always had a preference for her middle name.

===Appearance===

[[File:Stormguard_tattoo.png|thumb|right|Stormguard Tattoo on Seraphine's Shoulder Blade]]

'''Height:''' ~5'3"

'''Weight:''' ~118 lbs

'''Body:''' Faith has a petite, yet curvy figure which is well toned after years of training and working out. She often uses her pleasing physical form to charm and seduce others into getting what she wants.

'''Hair:''' Pale blonde with soft, fiery tipped highlights. She is known for her long ponytail adorned with a braided crown, the symbol of power for the Winter family females. Of late she has been seen wearing her hair flowing down over her shoulders or in intricate braids.

'''Eyes:''' Pale blue left eye, sapphire blue right eye.

'''Skin:''' Tanned and oiled daily with no apparent scars.

'''Clothing:''' Faith takes extra care to make sure her clothing always suits the occasion. When attending charity events or at gambling functions she prefers sleek, black dresses with detailed designs and jewelry of the highest quality. During office hours she wears designer bliauds, with skirts and custom made high heels. She is often seen wearing loose fitted, light cloth when training at the Platinum Mirage or around her friends.

'''Marks:''' Faith has a single tattoo on her right shoulder blade, a constant reminder of her past in the Order of the Stormguard.

==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>History </center></div>==

''Unable to obtain the ‘perfection’ of her older sister, Lady Seraphine “Arcadia” Rose Winter, Faith Winter spent her teen years living up to her reputation as a constant troublemaker, gambler and bruiser. She used her charm and charisma to organize illegal fighting matches and managed the career of her adopted brother and famed boxer, Ravirr Shiga. Faith had an addiction to theft, especially when it could be used to annoy those she decided to amuse herself with. Much of Faith’s efforts were put into studying lock picking combined with breaking and entering She trained her pet star marmot, Jackpot, to assist in her thefts. Her one redeeming trait seemed to be her generosity. Faith would give not only her own money, but any gambling winnings she acquired, to the poor in the streets of Ul’dah. The commonfolk and poor respected her and often protected her from The Brass Blades... but for the most part the name “Faith Winter” was synonymous with “trouble”.

After the supposed death of her older sister, Faith Winter became the Matriarch of House Winter. This change was met with blatant hostilities due to Faith’s reputation as a street rat and her troubles with the law. For the first few months of her appointment, Faith locked herself away in the Winter family home, only leaving to visit Cartius Felstar, and choosing to speak to no one outside the walls of the estate. To all connected with the family it seemed apparent that the success and glamour of House Winter died with Seraphine in fiery flames...

And then Winter came...

The Markets of Ul’dah suddenly became flooded with powerful and exquisite accessories the likes of which had never been seen, all bearing the Winter Ice brand. For the first time in House Winter’s long history, elegant, high quality accessories were no longer designed exclusively for the social elite, but were now available for the general public. Donations to charitable causes and construction on a public library began, all in the name of House Winter. Wild rumors began to circulate that Lady Seraphine Winter must be back from the dead as no one could be as talented or kind-hearted. The press surrounded the Winter estate, clamoring for a glimpse inside the walls and demands for an exclusive story caused near riots outside the grounds.

In response to the demands of the press and public, invitations were sent out across Eorzea to a gala event at both the Felstar and Winter Estate in Ul’dah. Each invitation was accompanied with a dazzling sapphire snowflake set in a platinum band for the mysterious host’s guests. On the night of the gala, both royalty and adventurers alike were greeted by a winter wonderland recreated in Ul’dah. Snow fell from the skies above the estate, an ice skating rink had been set up, the last of Winterborne’s castes had been opened and no expense spared to ensure each guest was pampered. Across the street from the Winter manor, the Felstar Estate also hosted a gala commemorating a piece designed by Faith dedicated to the Warriors of Light which would be donated to the Avalon Heritage Museum. Several artifacts that had been uncovered due to the efforts of both Houses were also displayed.

At last when the moment came to unveil the hostess of the party the figure who eloquently descended the staircase of the ballroom adorned with stunning gems and stylish black dress was not Seraphine but... Faith Winter.

Since that time, Faith has become a media darling, her face appearing in the papers on a frequent basis. With the return of her sister, Seraphine Winter Felstar, and the support of Cartius Felstar, Faith’s popularity has only increased over the last four years. Winter Ice has become a sensation in Ul’dah and the remaining bottles of Wintersong have become worth a Sultana’s fortune. With the success of the wine and the true return Seraphine, Faith Winter has began repair on the old vineyard estate, Winterborne. In addition to the success of her businesses, Faith has become known as a beloved philanthropist. She has opened a school in Ul’dah which welcomes all students, no matter what their social status, as well as a public library. Recently Faith has become increasingly active in the fight against the Garleans, wishing to protect her beloved homeland from enemy invasion.

Things seemed to be going well for Faith, until one day she received a message from Rynn Limley, an old Outer Heaven member pleading for help...
''

===Skills===

*Other:

'''Swordplay:'''

'''Knowledge:'''

'''Weaknesses:'''

===Likes===
* Public Relations - Whether it's a new line of accessories, work for the public school, or charity, Faith is at her best when using her charms.
* Fashion - She takes great pride in the appearance she presents even when working out. Whether it's formal or casual, her clothing is of good quality, well pressed and tailored to fit. When working out at the Platinum Mirage she prefers light cloth, but can often be seen wearing sleek, black silk dresses to charity events or gambling functions. She designs all her jewelry personally in order to ensure it is tasteful, yet stands out, wanting all her pieces to be noticed immediately.
* Theft - Faith is a recovering thief who steals not for any material gain, but more for the excitement and “rush” it brings her. Stealing gives her satisfaction akin to sexual acts and can become dangerously addictive to her. For the past five years Faith has curved her propensity towards kleptomania as well as breaking and entering in order to uphold the Winter name.
* Gambling - Often seen at the high stakes gambling tables at the Platinum Mirage and casinos around Ul’dah, Faith enjoys taking risks. A master of sleight of hand, Faith has perfected a one handed shuffling technique she uses as a distraction to amuse crowds at the table.
* Protecting others - After the death of her siblings, Faith adamantly defends the remaining members of old Stormguard and Outer Heaven.

===Dislikes===
* Garleans - As the Garlean forces move closer to Faith's vineyard in Limsa and set their sights upon Ul'dah, Faith has become increasingly active in the war.
* Cold and ice - Faith was raised in the hot desert sands of Ul’dah and thus the only kind of ice she likes are measured in carats.
* Fire - After losing her entire family in flames and barely escaping the attack on her sister’s manor, Faith is terrified of fire.
* The Brass Blades - Although Faith has been on the straight and narrow for years, with excellent standing in the community, the police force in Ul’dah still make her nervous whenever she meets them.

===Demeanor===
Faith’s personality is as warm and wandering as an Ul’dah breeze. Easily approachable, she is quick to make friends and form alliances. She exudes charm and is at her best when with others, but her need to keep things interesting often drags her friends into strange adventures. Over the past five years she has also developed a passion for reading history and loves listening to people’s life stories. However, her interest in boxing, fights at the Blood Sands, and gambling has not wavered. Those close to Faith have come to expect the unexpected when dealing with her. She is an optimistic and hopeful person, always seeking truth and happiness, although she does not always succeed. Faith follows her own deep moral compass, always trying to do what she feels is right - not the right thing society tells her to do.

After receiving a message from Rynn Limley, Faith has come to realize the importance of the people who were members of the Order of the Stormguard and Outer Heaven. She spends her free time researching their whereabouts and is fiercely protective of those she finds. Opening her home to those who need it, Faith regards her friends as her most treasured asset.

Faith’s love life lies between athleticism and intellectualism. She enjoys a person who can not only be physically active and enjoys adventure, but can also appreciate long talks over wine about life, philosophy or current events. When it comes to relationships, Faith is attracted to those who she see as her equal in charm, charisma and passion. She prefers to be with someone who can work a crowd as easily as she does and is not threatened if she spends time with her friends. Always up for a challenge, she likes her partner to have the stamina to keep up with her ventures. In private, Faith is a devoted, loyal and adventurous lover. Although she appreciates class and respect in public, Faith is a loyal and creative lover. She makes the person she is with a part of her and is always considerate of their happiness and expects the same from the person she is with.

==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>Relationships </center></div>==

====Family====

*'''Father:''' Unknown, Cartius Felstar is the nearest thing to a father she has.

*'''Mother:''' Lady Rebecca Winter (deceased)

*'''Siblings:''' [[Seraphine Winter Felstar]], Gabrielle Winter, [[Ravirr Shiga]]

*'''Other:''' [[Kylin Felstar]], [[Elza Felstar]]

'''*More pending post ARR launch~'''

==<div style="padding:5px; border: 2px solid rgb(57, 92, 128); background: rgb(50, 50, 50); border-radius:15px;"><center>Other Notes </center></div>==

<table style='position:center;'>
<tr>
<td style='width:50%;padding-right:10px' valign='top'>

===<center><div style='padding:4px 35px; background: rgb(50, 50, 50);font-size:14px; color: rgb(213, 200, 185); font-family: century gothic; text-shadow: 3px 3px 3px rgb(68, 148, 185), 8px 8px 8px rgb(129, 200, 209);'>The Rumor Mill </div></center>===
<div style='border:1px solid rgb(255, 255, 255); padding:8px;'>

*'''Common Rumors (Easily overheard):'''
** "Did you see the dress Lady Winter wore at the Full Cold Moon last year? - Perfection!"
** "He looks different than he used to. Didn't he have a tattoo on his face at one time? And his hair is so much different. He's cert"Winter Ice accessories are all the rage in Ul’dah! Faith is a visionary!"
** "Lady Winter plans to reopen the family vineyard in Wineport. They say one bottle will be worth a sultan’s ransom!"

*'''Moderate Rumors (Moderately difficult to overhear):'''
** "Lady Winter’s school is revolutionizing education in Ul’dah, but she lets the poor attend for free! She’ll be arrested for that, you just watch!"
** "People say Cartius Felstar was actually responsible for all the atrocities against House Mavanix years ago. Faith’s so close to Cartius do you think she was involved?"
** "Did you hear Faith won a fifteen million at the Mirage last night? - Her luck is incredible! She has to be cheating!"

*'''Rare Rumors (Very difficult to overhear):'''
** “The real Faith Winter died during some kind of fire. The Garlean’s replaced her with a spy!”
** "I heard that tattoo on her back means she’s the leader of a religious cult!"

*'''PC Rumors (Player created rumors--feel free to add your own!):'''
**
**
**

</div>
</td>

<td style='width:50%;padding-right:10px' valign='top'>

===<center><div style='padding:4px 35px; background: rgb(50, 50, 50);font-size:14px; color: rgb(213, 200, 185); font-family: century gothic; text-shadow: 3px 3px 3px rgb(68, 148, 185), 8px 8px 8px rgb(129, 200, 209);'>Miscellaneous Info </div></center>===
<div style='border:1px solid rgb(255, 255, 255); padding:8px;'>

*'''Character Inspirations:'''
** Faith Lehane -- http://buffy.wikia.com/wiki/Faith_Lehane
** Amanda Darieux -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amanda_(Highlander)
** Vesper Lynd -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesper_Lynd

*'''Theme Song:''' http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnzgdBAKyJo

Seohyun Iyasu

2013-06-26T20:20:17Z

Gerik:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Seohyun Iyasu
| image = Seo.png
| imagewidth =
| caption =
| title =
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Midlander
| stat_1 = Nameday
| stat_1_value = 9th Sun of the 5th Astral Moon
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 21
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Stillglade Apprentice
| stat_4 = Family
| stat_4_value = Father: Halexies Iyasu Mother: Arietta Iyasu 
| stat_5 = Religion
| stat_5_value = Menphina, The Lover
}}

==Biographical==

* '''Pronunciation: Say-Oh-Hyun Ee-Yah-Suu'''

* '''Nicknames: Seo, Little Bird (Tyonis) , Princess (Tyonis) '''

* '''Place of birth: Ul'dah'''

==Appearance==

* '''Height: 5'6'''

* '''Weight: 115'''

* '''Body: Curvy'''

* '''Hair: Platinum'''

* '''Eyes: Light Grey'''

* '''Skin: Caramel Tan'''

* '''Clothing: Varies from expensive gowns, to clothes that reveal her long and slender legs.'''

* '''Other: Her eyes are truly the mirror to her soul. Usually all her emotions can be seen through then, especially when she's mad. When Seohyun drops her "innocent" facade, and reveals her true and darker nature her face changes from the innocent damsel in distress to a much more mischievous and scheming version. Though the second is usually only shown to her enemies or when in extreme anger. '''

==Personality==

 

Some would consider her personality her downfall. Seohyun is extremely naive about the real world around her due to her sheltered upbringing. Whatever she knows about the world has been learned through her studies and whatever she could find in books. Leaving her not to understand some of the most basic things when she finds herself out in the "real world", and not having common street-smarts. But living amongst nobles has made her sharp, witty, and resourceful. It's no surprise that in the world of noble politics that you have to learn to swim with sharks. Seohyun knows how to use words to put herself in a beneficial situation, and get herself out of trouble. She is cunning, and sometimes even manipulative if she needs to be. If she finds that she can't outsmart someone, she'll tend to use money as another option. She uses her finances in order to reach her goals and to bring her places that looks and wit cannot. But more lays beneath the young lady that others tend to miss. Despite sometimes being made out to be a vain, and shallow. She can be extremely caring and nurturing to her friends. She also feels as though it's her job to keep those around her entertained if things are going dull. Unlike most native Ul'dahn, if someone is to win her trust, she'll be extremely loyal (Sometimes to a fault) and be at their side even when their wrong. Her loyalty shows no bounds, she's even willing to follow someone she cares for deeply into a near death experience without questions asked. Because of this, she tries to not become attached to people, knowing that someone might take advantage of her loyalty. More importantly, she pretends to be a innocent, pure, angelic figure to people she recently meets in fear that they may not like her true personality, and because of this she is self-conscious to show the woman she truly is.

 

* '''Fears: People not liking the "real" her, people seeing through her facade, remaining alone, rejection, becoming attached to someone, love, someone having power over her.'''

* '''Talents: Curative Spells, Alchemy, Dancing, Singing, Using words to get her way. '''

* '''Dislikes: Dance, Music, Men, Wine, Clothes, Jewels, Interested in most forms of magic, Strawberries.'''

* '''Demeanor: Womanizers, Snooty Rich People, Magitech Technology (Too complicated for her) , sometimes jealous of female Miqo'te due to their natural beauty. '''

==Other==

* '''Voice: Usually gentle, sweet, innocent and soft. When she reveals her dark streak, it tends to get sultry, husky, and seductive. '''

* '''Mind: Booksmart, but lacks street-smarts.'''

* '''Fighting Style: Seohyun is extremely frail and thus won't be found anywhere near the front line of a battle. Instead, she relies on her allies for protection, while supporting them with her healing magic, enchanting them with magical barriers of protection or stone, and weaving the elements to send magical barrages at her foes. If forced into close range combat, she keeps dirk hidden in a shin sheath under her boots. Despite not being good with a blade at all, she knows that she must stab with the sharp end. Her frail dancers build allows her to be agile, but she is far from a sword-maiden. Thus, she prefers to outsmart her opponents using wit and manipulation in order to give them a hassle or subdue them. Trying to cause tension among their ranks so that they'd fight amongst each other and forget about her as the target. Her real weapon is not a sword, or dangerous explosive magic. Instead, it's charm, cunning, and gil. '''

=History=
----
 

'''Past''': Born and raised as the only daughter of a wealthy family from Ul'dah, Seohyun was lucky enough to be showered in wealth and favor. Her father came down from a long line of jewel traders, who now had their own company in Ul'dah. Her mother, a conjurer from Gridania who fell in love with not only her father, but the gil in his possession.

Seohyun got whatever she wanted as a child, except for freedom. During her upbringing, Seohyun was taught how entertain, and have proper etiquette like most young noble women. She accompanied her parents in political parties, dinners, and balls. Watching how the upper-class scene in Ul'dah worked, she learned that everyone lied, everyone was fake to each other, and if you wanted to be liked you had to say what people wanted to hear. But it didn't take her long to learn that this isn't the kind of life she wanted to live.

At adulthood, her biological mother died of a terminal illness and her father was quick to remarry. Instead, this time he married a young Ul'dah songstress that wasn't much older than Seohyun. Her new "step-mother" was enchantingly beautiful, with a divine voice. The way she controlled her father, and the men around her made Seohyun itch with jealousy, and yearn to be like her. She came to hate this woman, not only because she was trying to take her mothers place, but because of the large amount of jealousy she harbored. Not being able to see her father with this woman, and refusing to remain a prized caged bird. Seohyun decided to gather her things, and make an escape.

A year later, Seohyun found herself in Gridania, where her biological mother was born. Here, she decided to study at Stillglade Fane where should could master the art of conjury. Things here were dull, and quiet. She wanted a purpose, adventure, and excitement but she knew all those things came at the price. The price of risking your life. It was then, she decided that she'd take up arms and help fight against the upcoming threats and while also gaining enough riches to surpass that of her fathers. Once her goal was complete, she'd return to Ul'dah once again and flaunt her success.

 

=Current=
----

Sent to Limsa Lominsa by the Stillglade in order to help treat their injuries now, as their nations attempt to fight the Imperials. Seohyun has had a hard time adjusting into the brutal atmosphere in Limsa Lominsa, and is confused by the behavior the people here display. Nevertheless she finds it extremely entertaining and eye-opening.

(More to come as roleplay deepens)

=Friends=
----

 

'''Gerik Aston''': One of her first friends since she escaped Ul'dah. She teases him playfully, and has even forced him to be her trophy boyfriend in order to make her child-hood friends die with jealousy. Though she's oblivious of his sexuality and thinks he has a crush on her.

'''Reiry Nitrrah''': A woman she met at a masquerade ball. Reiry was the first friend she's made outside of Ul'dah, and thus holds a special place in her heart.

'''Shurin Mizune''': A man of the Maelstorm that she ran into one night on a balcony looking at the ocean. She finds Shurin interesting, despite the darkness he shows. Seohyun is motivated to help Shurin get his life back in track, and to help him find his happy place once more.

'''Reta Suri''': A tough Miqo'te woman that Seohyun met in Limsa. She yearns to be as honest and as strong as Reta is, and finds her to be a inspiration. Despite her tough attitude, men still seem to flock to her which makes Seohyun awe. Despite only spending a short time around her, she already sees Reta as a big-sister.

'''Tyonis Magstrom''': A pervert that she met along with Reta. Despite his his lewd personality, she's noticed that he cares for her protection and even gave her good advice on how to survive. Seohyun highly respects him, and also finds him entertaining to be around. Where ever Tyonis is, there's either a party or trouble to be had... and she loves both of those things. She is currently considering on hiring him as her sell-sword.

'''Gospel Gestalt''': Someone she's been bumping into a lot recently. Seohyun is envious of the magical prowess he commands, and wishes she were as strong as him to defend herself and her friends. They both find each other odd, but she respects him highly and laughs a lot while being in his company.

=Stories=
----
 
 
====(Memoirs Of A Lost Heiress)====

* Volume I: (W.I.P)

=Additional Info=
----

[[File:Final-fantasy-xiv-concept-art.jpg|right|300px]]
==The Rumor Mill==

* Common Rumors (Easily overheard)
** "I hear she's the daughter of a long-line of famous jewelers in Ul'dah. But she ran away? Who would run away from a life like that?" - Ul'dahn Citizen

** "I've heard about her, but never seen her. I hear her father is a paranoid fool, and never let her out of the house. Poor girl was a prisoner." -- Ul'dahn Housewife.

** "I've seen her at one of her father's parties. Innocent, and polite little girl. A real angel, that girl is!" -- Ul'dahn Noble

* Moderate Rumors (Moderately difficult to overhear)
** "The girl was picked on by young Miqo'te girls when she attended parties with her parents. She was a bit on the chubby side, but as she grew older she blossomed into a beautiful young lady. Hmm.. Now that I think about it. Whatever ever happened to those girls? It's like the disappeared off the face of the earth." - Iyasu Estate Maid

** "That girl there's something about her that I don't really trust. It scares me." -- Stillglade Conjurer

** "I hear she's never had a boyfriend. I hear she was asked out a lot amongst the nobles, but she rejected everyone. Smart girl, I say. That'll only make them want you more. A real commodity if you ask me..." -- Ul'dahn Womanizer

*Rare Rumors (Very difficult or rarely overheard)
** "That girl is dangerous. She has the smile on an angel, but don't let that fool you. She found one of the maids sleeping with her father, and when the girl confronted her she somehow convinced her to quit her job and leave Ul'dah. Whatever she said, must not have been pleasent." --Iyasu Cook.

** "Seohyun? Yeah, I see her sitting by her window every night and singing. Though she may smile, it always seems forced. I hope she manages to smile genuinely one day." -- Iyasu Gardener

** "That girl! She has a heart of gold. She had someone send us Gil every month from her allowance. Thanks to her I've had all the ale and wine I can drink!" -- Street Beggar

*Things You Can't Possibly Know (But I want you to know OOCly)
** Her manipulation is saved for her enemies. The way she'd lie to her friends is by not acting the real her.

** She's extremely loyal if she becomes attached to a friend, or a lover. And because of this she's been taken advantage of several times and is scared of getting close to someone like that again.

*Wanted for Interesting Roleplay
** I'm open for most roleplay as long as it doesn't leave my character mutilated or perma-deathed.

2013-06-14T23:07:38Z

Gerik:

File:Gerikava.png

2013-06-14T23:05:19Z

Gerik: Gerik uploaded a new version of "File:Gerikava.png"

Gerik Aston

2013-06-14T23:03:59Z

Gerik:

<div style="padding: 12px; background-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">


{{Infobox-character
| name = Gerik Brynn Aston
| image = File:Gerikava.png
| imagewidth = 300
| caption =
| title = The Zephyr
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = Menphina, the Lover
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 26 (Post Dalamud)
| stat_3 = Nameday
| stat_3_value = 26th Sun of the 6th Astral Moon
| stat_4 = Orientation
| stat_4_value = Homosexual
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Beekeeper
}}

== '''''General''''' ==

''Gerik is a laid-back, charismatic highlander and can usually be seen with a smile on his face. He tries hard to avoid as much responsibility as possible (save for those causes he deems worth fighting for), not because he’s lazy, per se, he just wants to feel like he has the freedom to do what he wants, when he wants. Feeling his bare feet in the grass or the cool breeze that blows through the Twelveswood are some of his greatest pleasures.''

== '''''Appearance''''' ==

[[File:GerikRedClothes400.png|right|]]

'''''Height:'''''

:6 fulms, 6 ilms - he is a bit taller than most Highlanders. 

'''''Weight:'''''

:243 ponz – Gerik is a bit bulky in terms of muscle. He attributes his physique to good genes as he doesn't really do anything consciously to retain or build muscle. 

'''''Body:'''''

:Gerik is well-built and defined having somewhat of a gymnast's build. Having worked for a short time at the Greatloam Growery in [[Gridania]] assisted in the development of muscle as well as his normal ability to retain his physique has ensured that Gerik is somewhat of a prime specimen of desire for the opposite sex.. or in his case, the same sex. He thinks his best attributes are probably his chest and arms. 

'''''Complexion:'''''

:Tanned, bronzed skin covers Gerik's body. He used to have a few scars, but since he's been cohabiting with Deirdre she's returned his skin to its original condition. He has a symmetrical tattoo on his face, a simple design comprised of six white lines. 

'''''Hair:'''''

:Gerik normally crops his hair very close to the scalp. He's considered growing it out however he generally doesn't like when his hair grows long enough to touch his ears. If he let it grow out, its natural color would be one of a darker burgundy or maroon. A moderate amount of stubble grows on his jawline, normally Gerik doesn't bother to trim it everyday, opting to trim it once every three days or so. Starting at his belly button, Gerik has a light dusting of hair that leads down to his genital region, sometimes he shaves it off, other times not. 

'''''Fashion:'''''

:Shirtless is the way to go for Gerik. He finds that it provides the most freedom in terms of everyday activities, and he also likes to feel the breeze around him. However in situations where a shirt of some sort is necessary, he'll tend to use some sort of lightweight, breathable fabric. He also has a set of clothing for more formal events, he thinks that the wedge cap from the set makes him looks less intimidating. In downtime alone, Gerik can be seen in normally just his underwear, or a set of pants and shoes. 

== '''''Personality''''' ==

Due to Gerik's odd upbringing, he still remains a child at heart. More than anything he wants to be liked and to have people he can trust and rely on. He's very social and trusts people very easily due to this, however at the same time he's also afraid to let people get too close for the fear of others hurting him. Others might perceive him as being gullible and a bit slow and they'd probably be right. He never had a 'good' education, so in that regard he's not quite so bright. During his time spent at Gridania he's learned a little about how to cultivate plants, which plants have medicinal properties to them, and which plants are safe to eat, in addition to a bunch of other assorted knowledge about plants and creatures within the forest. Many would describe Gerik as 'lucky', sometimes things happen to him with little to no effort on his part, or he gets something accomplished in a very unorthodox manner.

Despite him not being a 'Forestborn,' he thinks he's earned the trust of the local Gridanians enough for them to treat him as one. He's spent a lot of his time in the Twelveswood, even going as far as to camp in the canopies of the trees at night. When on these extended camping trips he usually spends most of his time napping, or observing the happenings within the forest, his employers are generally not pleased as he may not come in to work for a few days or more. His favorite haunt is the White Willow near Camp Emerald Moss.

'''''Family''''': 
Gerik's mother and father were trading merchants, often travelling between every city-state. His surname, Aston, comes from his mother's maiden name and its midlander origins come from the words "East", and "tun", or the settlement to the east of a main village near the ash trees. Eirika, Gerik's mother, was daughter to a former Ala Mhigan noble house. His father, Ganun, was a commoner, and as such, Eirika was never quite satisfied being married to him. Their son, Gerik is 3/4 Highlander and 1/4 Midlander (from his mother's side).

'''''Personality Traits:'''''

*Charismatic

*Hedonistic

*Absent-Minded

*Clumsy

*Slothful

*Athletic

*Trusting

*Jovial

*Messy

*Warm

*Slow-Witted

*Lucky

[[File:GerikAVA.png|right]]

'''''Talents:'''''

*Socialization

*Wilderness Survival

*Singing (Singing voice is based off John Martin, please ignore the electronic background music [http://youtu.be/RLaSjeCFnlE] [http://youtu.be/-yg3dLEDWqs] [http://youtu.be/-bt94yKsKHQ])

*Sketching 

*Tracking/Hunting 

*Stealth 

 

'''''Likes:''''' 

*The Twelveswood

*Riding Airships

*Freedom

*Gossip

*Fireworks 

'''''Favorite Food:''''' 

*Raw Oyster

'''''Favorite Color:''''' 

*A bit undecided, definitely either blue or green though.

'''''Favorite Creature:'''''

*Apkallus

 

'''''Dislikes:''''' 

*Snooty condescending people

*The Ul’dahan “gil makes the world go round” mentality

*People who disrespect the Twelveswood

*Being used

*Books and Reading

 

'''''Fears:''''' 

*Feeling obligated to a lot of responsibility

*Becoming incapacitated, or otherwise less mobile 

*Losing peoples' favor 

 

----

=== '''''Demeanor:''''' ===

Gerik tends to take a flippant approach to the world, that is, everything but a few select things are not taken quite as seriously as they should be, he also comes off as an optimist. Some of his favorite pasttimes are conversing and meeting new people. His charismatic and charming nature make acquiring friends a simple task, however he’s not one to sugarcoat things, instead preferring to be blunt and openly disagree should a point he feels is wrong manifest. In fact, due to his blunt nature, sometimes inappropriate comments may be blurted out. Despite this, Gerik tries hard to be as good-natured and kindhearted as possible.

[[File:GerikLayDown2.png|right]]
 

'''''Quirks:''''' 

*Has a very large appetite, can usually be seen snacking if there is nothing more pressing to attend to, nobody really knows how he stays in shape, not even Gerik.

*Gerik is quite sloppy; he strategically packs his bag every morning, his strategy for packing is to take a bunch of stuff strewn on the floor of his room and haphazardly dump it into his bag.

*Finds Roegadyn men absolutely endearing, he entertains the idea of a cuddly Roegadyn, and likes it, '''a lot'''.

 

----

== '''''History:''''' ==

'''''Childhood''''' 

:Gerik hails from Ala Mhigo. His parents worked as traveling merchants selling and trading wares from one city-state to another. His mother sang to crowds in an effort to increase sales and forced Gerik to do the same once he was old enough.  During the time of the Garlean invasion, Gerik and his parents were in Gridania. Due to Gerik being a child at the time, they decided it would be safer for them to travel since he would be a burden and abandoned him in Gridania. There, he was raised in the Acorn Orchard with other Gridanian children. During his time growing up, he spent a lot of time in the forest basking in its beauty and enjoying the company of the creatures that are native to the Twelveswood. 

'''''Adolescency''''' 

:At the age of adolescency, Gerik decided he should find something meaningful to do with his life and repay the debt he felt he owed to Gridania, and since he's had a sizeable amount of prior experience with a bow (hunting) as well as the practice of tracking prey and remaining unseen; thus he began training more seriously in the art of archery with aspirations to become a member of the God's Quiver (he also dabbled a bit in the art of lances thinking he might be able to join the Wood Wailers, as well as conjury at the Stillglade Fane, however he dismissed these ideas once he realized he couldn't possibly attempt to join all three factions).  

'''''Adulthood''''' 

:However it was not to be; he was not accepted into the God's Quiver on reasons that are still unknown to him, instead they referred him to someone referred to as the "Godsbow." After much listening to Jehantel's songs and using them as a basis for study, he's slowly been increasing his repertoire of songs. Still, he prefers to not perform in public as he's a bit self-conscious. Gerik is currently looking into alternative ways to assist Gridania's cause due to his inability to assist the God's Quiver.  His previous employment history was that of a simple lumberjack for the Botanist's Guild in Gridania. Prior to Dalamud, he found employment with the Shimmersong mercenaries, their headquarters residing in Owl's Nest; he finds the region of Coerthas breathtaking. Presently, he volunteers at the Honey Yard and lives in Ul'dah.
 
----

'''Dreadful Cacaphony''' - 0 
<spoiler>"Ugh." A young highlander woman sighed. "Ganun it it's crying again honestly how can one get her beauty rest with that dreadful cacaphony going on." She rolled over and slapped the highlander male lying adjacent to her. "Wake up and deal with it!" Ganun grunted in defeat and rolled out of bed. He exasperatingly sighed "Yes dear." Ganun coddled the newborn all the while sporting his trademark scowl; eventually the child eased up and fell asleep. He walked back to bed and fell asleep. Morning came and he woke up to his wife Eirika coddling the newborn almost maternally, a trait he thought she never possessed; however his thought was interrupted when she screeched. "You know my womanhood will never be the same because of you the only good thing you've brought me is a larger set of breasts!" She gazed down at her ample cleavage admiring herself. She turned to face Ganun who just awoke. "Ganun darling shouldn't we name this abomination?" She gestured almost disgustingly at the infant. "Yes yes I suppose we should" Ganun replied. After a bell of deliberation, Eirika had a thought. "Ganun why not just combine our names and be done with this nonsense, all this thinking will give me wrinkles; so how does 'Gerik' sound? I think it it's just marvelous, of course it contains more of my name seeing as I'm the important one." She turned around and began to admire her cleavage again. "Yes, I suppose Gerik it is then." He smiled slightly at the newborn, quite possibly the first smile he had in years.</spoiler>

'''Fish & Desperation''' - 4 
<spoiler>"What is that dreadful smell; it smells like fish and desperation!" Eirika held her nose shut with her index finger and thumb. Ganun sighed and said slowly. "Dear we are in Limsa Lominsa trying to sell wares... right now we are in the fish market. Fish. Market." Eirika brushed her hair out of her face and stuck her nose up. "Ganun I do believe it is your turn to supervise Derrick." He sighed. "It's Gerik dear, and yes bring him to me." Ganun replied scowling at his wife. "Yeah, whatever." Eirika shrugged as she was applying more lipstick. "Zarik get over here this iiiinstant!" However the young child did not appear. Eirika cleared her throat and shrieked "Merik!" "Do you mean to tell me you lost our child?" Ganun inquired with the same scowl that was ever present on his face. She replied coolly, "frankly Ganun, I can't be held responsible, for you should have been paying more attention to him. What kind of father are you anyway?!" She adjusted her skirt in such a manner so that it would reveal more of her upper thigh. "But fine, have it your way, I'll go search for the little cretin." She discovered the toddler playing with two fish that probably fell off a cart during transport; two merchant-looking men were next to him offering him various other seafood to play with. "Hi bitch!" the young Gerik exclaimed happily. "You just called me what?!" Eirika's face turned red with anger. "tha-tha's what my new f'rends said your name was e'rlier." He gestured to the two merchants. The merchants stood up visibly embarrassed, we didn't mean it miss we apologi-.” Just then Eirika delivered a quick backhand to both of the merchants faces. She picked up young Gerik before he could crawl off anywhere else and stormed off. She looked down at the toddler and noticed he was holding a rothlyt oyster, she slapped it out of his hands. "No we do not touch anything that looks like a vagin-!" Ganun interrupted her. "Eirika I've prepared our stall. Are you ready?" "Really Ganun, do you have to ask, I was born ready." She flashes an almost sinister grin and brushes some hair out of her face. "But before we begin..." She fashioned a rope attached to the stall as a leash for the toddler and proceeded to arrange her clothes so that they were more revealing. When she was ready she began to sing. </spoiler>

'''Sweet Child''' - 7 
<spoiler>"C'mmere Gerik! Eirika said sternly. "Ok mommy!" Gerik jumped off a stool and ran to her eagerly. "Yes, such a sweet child... now drink this!" Eirika handed him a cup with a strange smelling liquid inside. Gerik looked up at her with a suspicious expression but drank from the clay cup anyway. Moments later, everything seemed to blur together and he passed out on the floor. Eirika turned around "Ganun did you get the man I asked for?" She pulled her hair into an updo. "Yes dear, I did." Ganun opened the door to let a highlander man into their inn room in gridania. "There's your payment... now go! Work! We've discussed the design already." Eirika gestured at Ganun to pay the man to which he obliged. The man pulled out tattooing supplies which he held in a bag and began tattooing the young highlander with the same tattoo his mother had on her face, its significance was unclear; however the highlander tattooist accepted tattooing as part of a highlander tradition and simply did his job and didn't ask questions. When he finished he simply bowed and took his leave. "Now we can find him later darling... I do hope that makes you feel better about this." She twisted a lock of hair around her finger. "Now let's go" Ganun nodded and replied sullenly. "Our wares are packed and are outside already." He looked down at the ground. "Oh that's simply wonderful, now carry this!" He grunted as she tossed a bag of her clothes into his arms. The two highlanders exited the gridanian inn room and left to embark on their mercantile journey to Ul'dah.</spoiler>

'''Something Naughty''' - 10 
<spoiler>Holding a roll of paper in one hand and a stick of charcoal held between his teeth, Gerik began to climb a young tree in the Twelveswood. The cool breeze felt good against his skin. It had been three years since his parents disappeared. He touched the tattoo on his face almost nostalgicly; reflecting for a moment, but just a moment because it got interrupted by him expelling the charcoal from his mouth. "What to draw today?" he thought to himself. Thoughts ran through his head of possible ideas, but he eventually settled on a fluffy marmot on the grass below. "Guess it's another marmot today." Slowly he used the charcoal to render his masterpiece. When he was done, he climbed back down and headed back to the acorn orchard. "Oh my isn't this lovely it's an uh. imperial warship, or maybe it's an uh a pair of woman's bloomers..." The orphanage worker strained to see what exactly it was that Gerik drew. She turned the paper horizontally and vertically but could make no sense of what it was. "Is that something naughty?" She pointed to a blunt looking appendage attached to an unrecognizable blob. "No ma'am, that's a tail, it's a marmot." He gave her a charcoal-covered toothy smile; in return she forced one herself and replied "Why don't you take this?" The elezen woman reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook she had been using to keep her grocery list in. "You can keep your drawings in it." Gerik reached for it excitedly. "Boy! Thanks lady!" Another charcoal-covered grin was flashed at her. She sighed and hung her head. "I've told you six times already my name is Elimine." When she raised her head again, he was already halfway to the Blue Badger Gate.</spoiler>

'''Azeyma's Candle''' - 15 
<spoiler>"The festival is here!" A teenaged roegadyn gestured happily and pointed to a large fireworks machine. A group of similarly aged orphans from the acorn orchard gathered around him. Gerik looked up in wonder at the aerial fireworks, they looked like jewels bursting into the sky. "Aderyn, wait up!" The teenaged roegadyn turned around and beckoned for Gerik to join the group. When he caught up, Aderyn put his hand around Gerik's shoulder and they proceeded to walk toward the festival grounds. The motley group of orphans pooled all the gil they could scrounge up with and bought an assortment of fireworks: some red, some yellow, and some blue. Exclamations of joy could be heard from the group. Over the course of four hours, they used up all their fireworks and decided to use the big fireworks machine set in place for the festival instead. "Wanna climb up on the oak atrium for a better view?" Gerik tugged on Aderyn's sleeve. "Sure, you have the best ideas Gerik!" The two climbed onto the roof sat together and smiled in wonder at how much closer the fireworks were. An Azeyma's candle bursted in front of the pair, exploding in a myriad of colors. Just then, Gerik's hand accidentally landed on Aderyn's while readjusting himself out of a cross-legged position. "S-sorry" Gerik was about to pull his hand off Aderyn's, but Aderyn slowly pulled his hand out from under and placed it atop Gerik's. The two made eye contact for a while and Gerik slowly went in for a kiss. Noticing gerik's advance, Aderyn also slowly moved toward the highlander. It lasted but for a few seconds, then the two sat speechless on the roof of the Oak Atrium. Gerik smiled slightly all the while. Aderyn was the first to speak "Y-y'know I'm not like that, I like girls." Gerik frowned and looked off to the side, remaining silent. Aderyn continued "I'm gonna marry a nice elezen girl one day a-and we're gonna have lots of kids." He stood up and took a look another look at Gerik before climbing down the roof. Gerik pulled his knees up to his chest wrapped his arms around them and let out a deep sigh. </spoiler>

'''Logs''' - 17 
<spoiler>“So I just swing at it like that?” Gerik grinned at the Roegadyn he knew as Opyltyl. Opyltyl looked back at him and sighed. “Aye, don’t forget to ask for the elementals’ forgiveness... and do you always have to stick your tongue out when you swing?” Gerik shrugged and swung his hatchet at the tree again. He liked the way the doublet vest he bought looked on him. Of course, he decided he needed to look good for his first day at the Greatloam Growery which is why he spent most of his gil on it, plus it showed off his muscular arms, Gerik liked his arms. Opyltyl left soon after to manage the Growery. A loud yawn left his lips a few hours later and a warm, inviting-looking patch of grass caught his eye. Looking down at his meager stack of logs, he sighed and dropped his hatchet on the ground and started walking over and stretching for a nap. </spoiler>

== '''''Pre-Dalamud Summary''''' ==
Gerik's story starts with a nap. The clearing he had been laying in was warm, breezy, and most importantly, he found his favorite type of moss to lay on, for it was more spongy than the other varieties that lived on the forest floor. His snores could probably be heard from quite a while away. His boss at the Greatloam Growery had been checking up on Gerik more frequently these days since he'd often discovered that throughout the workday Gerik would wander off somewhere and take a nap. Stumbling upon Gerik in the clearing, he pulled out a flyer and a bit of plant based adhesive from his pocket and walked over to the napping Highlander. He fixed the flyer onto Gerik's forehead with the adhesive and walked away shaking his head.

Three bells or so later, Gerik awoke to find a piece of parchment stuck to his forehead, he tried to pull it off, but only succeeded in ripping the portion not directly attached to the glue off. "Shimmersong - Mercenary Company", the flyer read, curious to see what the company was about, he went to Owl's Nest and it was there that he first met Ariel Madaellyn and Yssen Van. After a lengthy interview process that intimidated Gerik to no end, he was accepted. His first mission as a mercenary was with House Mavanix; during the mission a fight broke out, Gerik primarily served as a utility role protecting the young Miyuki Tatsugawa and after the battle was when he first met Kylin Mavanix, albeit unofficially. A week or so later, another Mavanix mission came in. This time a demon named Juravis threatened the group and it needed to be slain. During this mission he met Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn and took a romantic interest in him almost immediately, being one of the few gay Roegadyns he's ever met.

Shortly after this mission, Gerik had a run in with Ysa Van, Yssen's mentally unstable sister. A fight was avoided however, and Gerik stayed in the Corvus Cinis HQ that night with Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn. Unfortunately, Gerik has never seen Sydalyr again after that and figured that Syd was just uninterested in him. Shimmersong's ranks began to bolster; Kylin Mavanix, Seohyun Iyasu and Derrick Rickkon were recruited into Shimmersong. Through Seohyun, he was introduced to Deirdre Ta'ea albeit briefly in her apartment in Limsa Lominsa. Gerik and Kylin never officially met for a while. During their first meeting Kylin and he were fast friends and this is when Gerik made a deal with Kylin to show Kylin his sketchbook in exchange for swimming lessons.

The Aleport beach was where they spent their time swimming. Gerik felt a chemistry between the two but didn't act on it, afraid of being rejected again like with Sydalyr. Gerik ran into Deirdre on the beach one day, She asked Gerik to hold her underwater, he initally said no, but then complied no matter how confused he was.

Ysa attacked Gerik again shortly thereafter in Limsa Lominsa and wanted to know about Deirdre. Gerik hesitated to give her information initially however eventually yielded when she stabbed and dislocated his shoulder. Gerik called for Kylin over the Crystalline pearl and was met with the voice of a compassionate duskwight woman. Eva stitched his wound and took care of the dislocation, since then he's felt a certain debt to her. Soon thereafter, Deirdre and Gerik went into hiding from Ysa on the cliffs of La Noscea under Oschon's Torch, there she began training him in combat, specifically, with the knife.

After Deirdre attacked Gerik out of mental instability, Kylin took Gerik to his sister Elza's cabin in Gridania where they lived for a while. Gerik and Kylin also began a relationship in this time, but it was not to last.

During the Felstar Gala chaos ensued, aether erupted from the very ground beneath the attendees. Kylin was one of the ones that got sucked down into its abyss. Gerik and Deirdre regrouped at Elza's cabin mourning the losses of Kylin and Shurin, neither of them left the cabin or spoke for several days. Deirdre and Gerik fled for the Isles of Umbra when monsters started attacking the city-states because of Dalamud's proximity. It is there they spend their last days before the fall of Dalamud.

== '''''FFXIV: A Realm Reborn''''' ==
----
==== '''''Year One:''''' ====
'''''Lamb Sausage Is Discovered:''''' <spoiler>Gerik strained his head to look back at the shore they were only twenty or thirty fulms out, but it felt like forever since they departed the Limsa docks. His rope restraints becoming more uncomfortable, but he tried to relax and enjoy the ride. He didn’t mind this positon, being tied face-down to the back of a Roegadyn; the Roegadyn’s back was comfortably warm.

The Captain of the boat “Ram’s Head” was Iawu, or “Wu” for short; a burly Hellsguard Roegadyn. “You doing all right back there? Don’t be gettin’ seasick or nothin’ or my back is gonna be covered in whatever’s in your stomach.”

Gerik managed a chuckle having relaxed significantly because of Wu’s kindness. Still he strained to look at Limsa Lominsa, trying to look for a blue haired Elezen. He thought he caught a glimpse of her for a second, but it was just what looked like a muscular man’s long blue wig blowing off in the sea breeze.

The waves rocked the boat back and forth, Wu seemed to know exactly how to steer a ship through choppy waters; it was sort of nice despite the thunder and lightning emanating from the sky above them.

“H-Hey.” Wu tensed up all of a sudden. “What’s that?”

Gerik snapped his attention from Limsa’s docks, to the horizon. Nothing. “What’s what?”

Wu looked back at Gerik sternly. “I know for a fact that I didn’t pack no lamb sausage in the back of my pants this mornin’.”
“Well.. the rocking.. and you’re so warm..” Gerik trailed off.

Wu grinned, “S’all right, I know how it is being a man.. Just don’t go drizzlin’ me with your baby gravy, I paid a lot for these pants.”

Some Bells Later –

Gerik opened his eyes from a nap, surprised by the bleakness of the sky, Dalamud seemed to glow stranger than usual. “Must be starting soon.”

Wu nodded. “I think we might be far enough from the impact zone now, but I’ll keep pressing further.”

Gerik squinted at Dalamud, “Hey, Wu, look at that..”

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. Nothing too out of the ordinary. “Look at what now?”

Gerik flashed a wide grin at Wu. “You don’t have a lamb sausage down your pants anymore”

Wu smiled, rolled his eyes, and turned back to the wheel. “Boy, and it only took a few bells to do so!”

To their left a large splash erupted, a few passengers on the ship ran to look at the commotion. When they realized that it was a fragment of Dalamud, they fled for cover below the bridge. More fragments came flying their way, most hitting the water far away. Gerik breathed a sigh of relief.

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. “What the – Are those wings?”

Gerik gripped Wu’s torso. “It’s coming closer.”

In an instant the giant wyrm was overhead and seemed to be en route to Limsa.

“You’d best hold on tight, Gerik.” Wu braced himself against the ship’s rail.
A massive wave took hold of the ship and with a fierce speed smashed it into the Procession of Terns. Luckily when the ship was destroyed Wu managed to wedge himself between the railing and the walkway of the procession with Gerik still affixed to his back. Wu himself had a small plank of wood impaled through his left calf, Gerik got off mostly unscathed save various cuts and bruises. Wu had been knocked unconscious by one of the ship’s support beams.

Gerik looked over at the direction in which the massive wyrm flew. “Deirdre...”
</spoiler> [[File:GerikHoney.png|right]]

'''''New Beginnings'''''
<spoiler>It had been a week since the tidal wave hit Limsa Lominsa. People were still looking and grieving for loved ones. A few rays of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the first rays anyone had seen in days. Gerik had been holed up in Iawu’s home in Limsa Lominsa. It was a long week.

“You’ll be alright laying here Wu?” Gerik touched Wu’s leg gingerly. He had just rebandaged the wound.

“Aye, that pretty nurse comes by regularly, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” Wu says with a grin.

“Pretty nurse… ” Gerik thought for a moment. “I thought there was only a MALE midlander nurse that came by here? You never told me you…”

“You never asked.” Wu finished quickly. “But anyway, you had best go, I know you want to look for Deirdre.” He tossed Gerik a sack of gil. “S’what Deirdre ordered me to give to you.”

Gerik caught the sack, nearly dropping it in the process. “Oh, this is the gil..” He kneeled down and reached into the sack, pulling out whatever could fit in his hand and stuffed it down Wu’s pocket. “For breaking my fall.” Before leaving, he flashed Iawu a small grin.

---
Gerik pulled the mint green scarf over his chin as he began his journey outside of Limsa Lominsa taking only a moment to glance back at the battered city-state as the wind billowed.
</spoiler>

'''''New Beginnings II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik made his way to Carteneau astonished at the remnants of the battle. Already he'd stumbled upon several corpses, each in varying states of decay. Although he'd never admit it, he cried at the sight of each, thinking any of them could have been be his friend once. Weapons occasionally occasionally served as beacons that glittered in the sun. The highlander came across a bow made of a strange purple stone, it needed a restringing, but otherwise it seemed to work fine. he picked it up and slung it over his shoulder. A short prayer was uttered to ask for forgiveness to take this bow and to offer peace to whomever once held it. He spent the entire day looking for a body with long blue hair, one of these days he vowed to come back with flowers in honor of the dead. The area was a wasteland, he was the only one alive and walking in the area with only corpses to greet him.

He saw a midlander cadaver that he thought was his friend Blade, he was slumped over on his massive axe, and it looked like he was missing an arm as well as half his face. Resisting the urge to sob again, he reached into his bag to find something appropriate to offer as his condolences. Finding nothing of worth, Gerik settled on placing his lunch: two boiled eggs and a few Mizzenmast Biscuits, at the knees of the man. Then he made a ring of stones around him, to signify that someone did care about him. However, Gerik never found who he was looking for. Disheartened, he turned around and headed to Gridania.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Two:''''' ====

'''''Can you Even Lift?'''''
<spoiler>"So, moving on then, do you have any weaknesses?"

"Hmmm, well I don't like getting stung by bees, if that's what you mean." Gerik shifted uncomfortably in the ash chair. "Oh! Also I haven't really tasted honey that much previously."

His elezen interviewer grimaced, unsure what to do with his responses. "Uhh.. so do you have any previous experience with beekeeping?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I used to get stung by bees a lot, that's how I know I don't like it." Rolling up his left sleeve, he pointed to an area on his arm where a bee had stung him. "I think this was the most recent, a few years ago maybe."

She stared blankly. "I just... I don't think you're qualified. But we don't have any other applicants, so I guess you're hired? Wait, you can lift at least one of those hives right?"

"Easily, probably." He looked through the window behind her at the wooden crate-looking hive.

"Oh, would you mind demonstrating, just for proof?" She turned around to fetch him some protective gear but was confused to find out that he'd left the shack, probably because of his impatient expectancy to demonstrate himself competent at the job.

She heard yelling coming from outside and immediately knew what had happened. He had tried to pick up an already populated hive.</spoiler>

'''''Honey Straight from the Hive'''''
<spoiler>"Just draw the bowstring back like this, and hold it. Hold your breath and take in your surroundings. Keep the scene in your mind. You may let go now, slowly." Calloused fingers touched the highlander's shoulder. "You've done well today, keep practicing."

Gerik looked confusedly in reciprocation and released the string just as she had told him. "But I didn't shoot anything."

"Ah, but you did. You just don't know it yet." The elderly elezen woman patted his head of hair. "You young people are so impatient nowadays."

"Hm.. Well ok. Same time tomorrow then?" He handed her a satchel that jingled with the sound of glass.

Her eyes widened as she opened the satchel. "Oh goody, my favorite, honey straight from the hive." She smacked her lips, "And how creative, you left part of the honeycomb in the jar. Momma's got to buy some toast to enjoy this with!" She tapped her chin with her bony fingers. "Yes, same time tomorrow. By the way, where did you get your bow, it's very, how do you say, unique?"

"I actually found it when looking for a friend.. Up in Mor Dhona. I guess someone dropped it or something." He handed he the bow, figuring that she wanted to see it for a better inspection.

She delivered a loud slap. "A dead man's bow?! What were you thinking?! Her nostrils flared as she exhaled.

Gerik recoiled after her slap and rubbed his stinging bicep, "Oww...that hurt."

She knocked on the bow, "Such an odd material wouldn't you say? Definitely not wood, some sort of stone, perhaps? Still, at least it's a longbow, wouldn't want a man like you to be using a sissy miqo'te shortbow." She chuckled at her comment bemusedly. "Hell maybe I would have ripped this bow out of some poor sap's dying hands too!"
</spoiler>

'''''"BZZZZZ"'''''
<spoiler>“The... bee goes Bzzzzzz?” Gerik raises an eyebrow at Iawu. “Is that… is that me getting stung on the ass?”

Iawu let out a hearty laugh. “Aye, was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Gerik stifled a laugh by biting his tongue, trying to appear serious. “W-well how couldn’t I? It’s just there… in the open, you even used the crack in the book as my buttcrack, what kind of kids book is this anyway?”

Iawu flipped through the pages of another copy and answered rather pointedly. “It’s an alphabet book, B is for Bee, D’you think it’s any good?”

After looking at his illustrated ass from every angle one could possibly imagine with a book, Gerik shifted his gaze back at Iawu whilst cracking a grin. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that story about me and the Honey Yard. And I didn’t get stung on the ass, I got stung on the uh… my...” Gerik furrowed his brows, thinking. “This thingy!” He points to his tailbone.

Iawu shrugged. “Close enough!” He took a seat and began flipping through the book again. “What sound d’you reckon an imp makes?”

Gerik’s face shifted from pensive to dumbfounded over a period of tics. “How’s this?” Gerik tucked his hands under his armpits and flapped imaginary imp wings. “SKREE SKREE!”

Iawu continued staring, even after Gerik’s sound effects. “Wow… I gotta say, that was… that was awful.”

Gerik crossed his arms. “Well you do it then.”

Iawu set the book on the table adjacent to his seat and got up, briefly adjusting his glasses. He brings his hands up to shoulder height and begins flapping them furiously. “TIIII, TIIII!” He stopped suddenly when he caught a glimpse of an old woman staring at them through the window.

“I-I was going to offer you some popotoes… but I think I’ll give them to that harlot next door instead…” The old woman chewed her lower lip for a while before adjusting her bra and walking away.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Three:''''' ====
'''''Men's Underwear'''''
<spoiler>The rain left Gerik's hair like dew covered grass. He hadn't expected how enjoyable it would be to work at the honey yard. Despite a painful start, he quickly learned the practice of beekeeping, and in fact, he enjoyed it immeasurably. He ran his hand through his hair before starting to harvest the honey from a nearby hive. Thoughts of several years ago flooded his head, mostly of Dalamud. He had always wondered where all the familiar faces that he was so accustomed to seeing went; where was Kylin, where was Deirdre, where was Blade? He plucked a bee out of the honey, it had mistakenly flown in.

Gerik sealed off the jar and headed back inside. "I've got the last batch harvested, should I just deliver this stuff now?" He licked his finger after noticing some vestigial honey lingered.

A red haired wildwood woman lifted her eyes from the paper she had been reading. "Oh my.. You're so very fast, I'd even dare to say you're one of the best workers here." Sauntering over she removed her glasses.

Flashing her a grin and glancing behind himself quickly, he decided "I um.. I think I'll just deliver these."

The wildwood woman eyed him up and down before taking his hand and brought it up to her lips.

Gerik was a rigid plank of wood, he cringed at her advances, but she was his superior. Her tongue was a snake slithering over the finger he had licked prior. "Right um.. I think it's, it's.." Gerik shifted uncomfortably. "Look, the new Lalafell employee is stealing the honey!" As the eleven woman spun around to look outside the window, he took his delivery and ran.

---

"This seems like the place..?" A large Uldahn mansion that had seen better days stood in his path. He took the knocker in his hand, but the door opened before he could bring it down, a sophisticated looking highlander woman met his gaze and answered rather pointedly.

"Baelhyn residence, this is Etienne."

"Oh, ah I'm here for the delivery, yeah?"

"I see. Please bring it this way, and leave your shoes outside, they are filthy."

She led him past the foyer and into the kitchen. What looked like a mansion that would have employed a full retinue of retainers was empty and lonely.

"Please leave it here." Her gloved hand pointed to a countertop, as he approached she began to develop a displeased expression on her face. "When was the last shower you had? Your very smell is causing me to age."

Taken aback by her comment, Gerik paused for an inordinate amount of time before placing the jars on the counter. "Walking from Gridania to Ul'dah isn't a short walk, yeah?"

She seemed to ignore his last comment,"Why, I feel as though I should do the greater community a service and allow you a shower."
"Thanks? I think."

Gerik stood still, still unsure of what transpired. When he snapped back, he realized the woman was already down the hallway.

"You will have to use the master's bathroom, I am afraid the other bathrooms are in disrepair at this moment in time." Producing a plush towel from her right hand, she opened the door to the ornately decorated bathroom and let him inside. "Do not steal anything, I know exactly how many soaps and miscellaneous bath accessories we have." With that she turned on her heel and closed the door behind her, tawny brown hair trailing after.

Gerik removed off his shirt and pants quickly, however he decided to examine the bathroom a little closer, it had been a long while since he'd seen a posh bathroom like this, he eagerly opened all the soaps and sniffed them, and then looked though the drawers. In one he found what looked like a collection men's underwear. He looked behind him making sure Etienne wasn't behind him. Quickly he removed his own underwear and pulled up the one he found; grinning, he modeled for himself in the mirror.

"Ahem."
A well dressed man stood in the doorway.
"My, when the cat is away, the mice will certainly play."
</spoiler>

'''''Men's Underwear Part II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik turned around to catch a glimpse of the man who possessed the assertive baritone voice.
A clean-cut highlander man stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around his waist; sun-kissed skin glowing from the afternoon sun. “So I suppose this is what the menial labor of Eorzea has come to, trying on others’ clothes and doing as they please in another’s house.”

Gerik twiddled his thumbs. “Ah, sorry.. I didn’t mean to-.”
A smirk crossed the noble’s lips, and slowly his mouth distorted as if to hold back laughter, the dam that was his lips eventually gave way and a torrent of laughter followed. Slowly his laughter slackened, Gerik stood dumbfounded at the man throughout the process.

“I’m sorry, you just have no idea how dull these days are; a little excitement is good.” He wiped tears from his eyes. “Usually the only person I ever talk to is Etienne, and I’m quite afraid we’ve run out of things to talk about. Anyway, my name is Issachar, and you are?”

Gerik grinned, happy that the situation didn’t end up with him being arrested. “I’m Gerik, from the Honey Yard, but um.. nice place you got here.”

Issachar nodded and scanned the floor, not seeming to pay attention the latter part of what Gerik said. “So you were going to take a bath, I take it?”

Gerik positioned himself so that he could lean against the sink across the doorway. “Yeah, your assistant kind of dragged me up here.”
“Etienne will definitely do that. She might call me ‘Master’ or what have you, but she’s the real one that runs this estate. But ah, I suppose you don’t need to hear all this, I’ll wait my turn to use the facilities.” With that, he bowed and gently closed the door behind him. “You can keep that underwear by the way!” Issachar projected from the other side of the door.

---

Briefly into his bath, he heard a few knocks on the door. “Mister Gerik, Master Baelhyn wishes to have tea with you after his shower. He has also instructed for me to lay clothes out for you, they are located on the end table outside of this door.”
Smiling at the rhythmic intervals of Etienne’s heels going down the hallway he closed his eyes and soaked in the tub.
</spoiler>

'''''Tea is Served'''''
<spoiler>

Etienne dropped a silver tray laden with a teapot and two teacups abruptly on the table with a loud clank. "Your tea sir." She turned on her heels and walked back to the kitchen.

The two men stared at each other a moment wondering what that minor outburst meant. Issachar broke the silence first. "Forgive her, I assume she's most used to serving nobility. I'm assuming she's taking serving an ah.. how do I say this delicately." Issachar murmured to himself. "Ah, there it is, working class member. She's taking serving a working class member as an affront to her station, or that's what I'm presuming anyway."

Gerik stopped mixing honey into his tea briefly to look back at Issachar. "I can go, if it's making her feel bad, yeah?"

"No, no, you're fine. Hell, for all I know, we might be members of this working class soon, my parents' business ventures haven't been going very well with me at the wheel." Issachar shrugged nonchalantly and sipped at his tea. "I mean, if the state of this house isn't an indicator."

"It's not so bad, I can get you a job at the Honey Yard." Gerik smirked and leaned back in his chair and gestured to the jar of honey sitting on the glass tea table. "It's more difficult than it seems to harvest that."

Issachar feigned a scoff. "Such a lowly position has no place with these noble hands!" When his attempt at a joke failed and Gerik looked more confused than anything, the highborn highlander tried to revive the conversation again. "I uh.. that was my attempt at being humorous, my apologies for offending. Truth be told, I'd enjoy experiencing that."

"You will do no such thing." Etienne's encroaching footsteps alerted the two to her position, she carried a tray of fruit tarts. "You need to consider your parents' legacy, may they rest in peace, before you go off gallivanting with some man you just met a few hours ago, I will not be selling myself off in the streets like those Concern girls." She shot Gerik a deadly look before placing the tray onto the table.

"Well why not? I mean it's good work." Gerik replied, a bit more defensive than he would have liked.

"I am afraid I will not be dignifying that with a response." She crossed her arms and looked away.

Issachar laughed profusely before breaking into a coughing fit. "Look at you two, like an old married couple." He was the only one that chuckled at his own joke. "But I suppose you're right, I do need to attend to business." Issachar fiddled with his cravate. "Tell you what Gerik, why don't make an arrangement where you come by and visit weekly or so?"
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Four:''''' ====

'''''Becoming a Tree'''''
<spoiler>A dapper man stepped out behind an ornate changing screen. "Well, how is it?" He ran his hands over the satiny fabric covering his chest. "I'm not quite so fond of this collar."

"Mister Issachar, it's fine. I hired the best seamstresses at sunsilks, they even embroidered your family crest into it." A silver marmot laid at the cuff of his left sleeve.

"Oh, that's what that is." He ran his fingers over the embroidery. "This is supposed to represent my family's fur trade, yeah?"

Etienne rolled her eyes. "You've been starting to speak like that... like that uncouth delinquent ever since you allowed him to commandeer the guest bedroom."

The royal purple bowtie gleamed like an amethyst as Issachar straightened it. Peering through the mirror at Etienne he smirked. "Be nicer to him, won't you?"

She made a sigh and gave him an acidic look. "Shall I make arrangements for Lady Ardris to escort you? I really wish you didn't invite that crude lummox."

The placid expression on his face broke. He coughed. "You mean for that vile, insipid woman to escort me?"

"We have no choice, we're losing gil, do you want us to be out on the streets?! Putting yourself in a position to marry Lady Ardris is the best shot you have at bringing this family back to the wealth it once knew." With a hand on her hips she turned around biting her lip, she hated mandating things to him.

Looking wistfully at the bird that had just perched itself on the windowsill, Issachar answered, "I suppose you're right." A sigh left his lips. "Say, Etienne, what do you suppose of the idea of you taking over my parents' business. If I recall, you're quite proficient at numbers."

"Well, sure, I graduated top of my class at the old Mavanix Academy. But what do you mean to say?" She spun around on her heel to look at him accusingly. "You're just giving up?"

A dignified gait carried the man over to a sofa where he sat and placed a book onto his lap. "Oh come now, let's not sugarcoat things, we both know the time of my eternal sleep is sooner than later... I've put a lot of thought into this, and I think you should be the rightful leader to my parents' legacy, they always did love you like a daughter, just as I've always loved you as a sister." He tapped the book a few times to break the silence that fell after his declaration, "I've been reading this story, the protagonist dies and wants to be buried with a tree to celebrate the metaphorical union of the cycle of life and death. I'd like to think I could go that way too, so very poetic."

With tears welling in her eyes she delivered a hard backhand to his face. "No more of this talk." She took a tic to compose herself and to wipe the tears from her face. "I'll need to prepare Gerik for this society event should you really wish for him to attend with you."

Issachar nodded, holding the side of his face. "... please do."

---

Several rhythmic knocks alerted Gerik to a prescence on the other side of the bathroom door. He put down the rubber chocobo he had been playing with in the bathtub. "Eh? That you Etienne?"

A muffled reply came from the other side of the door. "I so wish that you would stop speaking in that agrarian elocution you love so dearly. When you come out of there I have a few lessons for you."

"What kind of lessons? Are they going to be painful again?" Gerik looked at the burn mark he had on his palm from grabbing an deceptively hot pan.

"Well my goodness, I had no idea I was living with a little girl, and who grabs a cast iron pan without a potholder anyway?!" She struck the door with her hand.

He could hear her tapping her heels to the floor, she was growing impatient. "Alright, alright, I'm coming." He set the rubber chocobo atop the faucet and drained the water from the bathtub.</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Five:''''' ====

'''''Issachar'''''
<spoiler>Issachar collapsed one balmy day in Ul'dah. Everything seemed pleasant enough, his favorite tree in the garden had just grown fruit. Etienne was out conducting business on his behalf, and Gerik was probably out with his Roegadyn friend. It was a shame he'd never gotten to meet this Burgenheim fellow, Gerik told him all about the Roegadyn's enthusiasm for books. Perhaps they could have traded stories. He would concede that he felt jealous of Gerik spending so much time with the man, But it was for the best, they all knew this day would come. Issachar drew up his will just the other week, he had every faith that Etienne would revive his parent's namesake; and Gerik, well, he wanted him to be happy. A percentage was to be skimmed off the top of their profits and sent directly to Gerik, weekly, Etienne was to do this herself; as for the Baelhyn Manor, they were to each own half the rights to the property. it would take a lot of gil to repair things that had fallen to a state of disrepair.

He coughed.

Issachar didn't want to burden them with his inconvenience, it was good that neither of them were home, they could enjoy their time out to the fullest. He stared at the ceiling cursing his ailment, imagining Gerik's skin against his own, his stubble like a cat's tongue running down his chest. And then that first day they had met. He reminisced over the warm honeyed toast they had shared that this morning, honey could certainly only be described as liquid gold. Or even earlier that morning when he spent a good deal of time just happy to be cuddling with the man, his hands intimately embraced around Gerik's chest, he was always so warm, and he loved when Gerik's musk wafted into his nose. Gerik's natural musk was like an open field; it made think him of cobblestones and maybe ash trees, somewhere open and free. Then his vision began to fade, so he closed his eyes. His hearing dulled, so he stopped listening. His breath began to weaken, so he stopped breathing.</spoiler>

'''''Cake'''''
<spoiler>"MY CAKE! WHERE IS IT?!" Etienne tore through the manor like a madwoman. Loud footsteps encroached quickly toward a sleeping Gerik. "DID YOU EAT IT?! DID YOU?!"

He rubbed his eyes lazily and propped himself up on one arm over the sofa. "Ugh.. My brain is telling me you're being way too loud for my hangover right now."

"You did eat it didn't you?! There isn't anything in this house that hasn't been in your mouth at least once!" Her eyes grew large with rancor. "You even ate some of my eye cream! And don't act like I didn't notice, I saw your fingerprints on the patina on the side and there was about a spoonful missing!"

"Hey! It looked like whipped cream, and it was in such a nice little jar!" He sat up, already feeling tense from their constant conflicts ever since he moved in, though lately it had gotten worse.

"Gods, you are one of the most disgusting beings that ever inhabited Hydaelyn! I saved up MOONS for that cake! Not to mention how long it took to get onto the waiting list to even buy it! The Bismarck only makes five of those a year!" Each of her words were punctuated by the stomping sound of her custom made heels. "Well?! Did you eat all of it?!"

"I uh... Nooooo?" Knowing she was right, he scanned the room for the tray it had come in.

"I should have known. You only have about FIVE stomachs in that body of yours." She sighed and pivoted around, "Well, I have a board meeting to attend, but I expect reparations when I return! And clean your room, it looks like the asshole of the Mineral Concern exploded in there!"

A few quick motions of her hands and her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows and her business attire was smoothed over.

As soon as he knew she left the foyer, he trudged over to the kitchen and pulled a little box out of the pantry. Quickly thumbing through the slips of paper, he began to look for a recipe.
</spoiler>

'''''Cake Part II'''''
<spoiler>
Etienne exhaustingly pushed the stained glass door open, she kicked off her heels and continued to walk over to her room. Halfway there she caught a whiff of something heavenly coming from the kitchen. She peeked around the corner and caught sight of Gerik trying to frost what looked like a piece of marmot steak.

His tongue stuck out like an upturned leaf as he paddled icing on with a spoon. Not noticing her peeking in the doorway, he proceeded to apply what looked like wording to the cake. He thought to himself about what happened earlier that day, he had been an ass. He had just been so angry lately. Angry at Etienne, angry at Issachar, but mostly angry at himself. He tried to legibly pipe out "I'm Sorry" on the cake, and mostly achieved legibility. Gerik sighed deeply and looked over at his cake, staring at it a moment before slowly sliding the platter that held the cake to the edge of the counter and dumping it nonchalantly in the trash where all his previous cakes had landed. Leaning against the counter with his back facing Etienne. With a somber look at the trash, Gerik slid to the floor,tucking his knees into his chest.

"You don't need to waste food, you know." Etienne cracked a grin at him. Her hazel eyes looked over the somber looking highlander, he hadn't responded to her remark. "Look, I'm sorry, I've been quite tough on you ever since Issachar took a fancy to you... Well, ever since you first visited really." She tucked a stray piece of tawny hair behind her ear. "It's been tough ever since Mister Baelhyn left, I know."

His eyes had begun to grow glassy. Knowing her stoic analytical nature, he appreciated that she was even trying to make a joke of sorts, but the truth was that he had been incredibly unhappy ever since the death of his lover, Issachar. He nodded through her attempted dialogue with him, but he simply couldn't concentrate.

She sighed and slid onto the the floor next to Gerik, it was covered in flour, but she was beyond the point of caring about her clothes. "You know.. I ordered the cake for the both of us, I wanted us to enjoy it during this tough time. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you." She placed her palm flat on the floor and shifted some flour around.

Without warning, Gerik wrapped his arms around her in an embrace. He buried his tear-streaked face into her shoulder. "N-no, I'm sorry. I just.. I just-"

"I know, I know, I miss him too." She patted him uncomfortably, bodily contact was a pet peeve of hers. Still, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "I think I know something that we can do that would make Issachar happy, I'll be right back." Moments later she returned holding a seed, "I um.. I remember him saying that he wanted to have a tree planted inside his grave. Mind you I don't know what kind of tree this is, but perhaps this will do." Delicately she opened the mans hands and places the seed between his palms. She gave him a half smile before taking a few steps backward. "See to it that you tell that new maid of ours that this mess get attended to."</spoiler>

==== '''''Current''''' ====
(COMING SOON)

== '''''Rumors''''' ==

'''''Common Rumors'''''

*“Aye, that’s the guy I saw at the Bismark, ate nearly 3 plates o’ raw oysters ‘afore passing out in a room at the Mizzenmast.” -Astonished Highlander

*“You remember that one man who came by and chatted me up last week right? Babette told me over linkshell that she just saw him snogging a Roegadyn in the Market Wards, and not a female one! …No, you most certainly cannot watch them Damali!” – Scorned Midlander

*“With a gilded tongue like that, I’m not surprised he’s not got a higher position in society. Don’t even get me started on that nice lookin’ body he’s got.” – Lascivious Roegadyn

*"I heard that guy has a terrible work ethic, sometimes doesn't show up for days! But damn if I can't say no to that smile." - Conflicted Elezen

*"You could probably sell a bridge to that guy, he'll believe whatever you tell him...I guess all looks, no brains? ...Sure was good in bed though." - Disappointed Lalafell

'''''Intermittent Rumors:'''''

*“I heard he grew up at some orphanage in Gridania, why’d ya think his parents would give him up, oooh, maybe he has mental issues, or maybe the moogles brought him to Gridania, or maybe…” – Presumptuous Lalafell

*“The Adventurer’s Guild doesn’t seem to like to hand him leves, supposedly he turns down most of them. Sounds like pure slothfulness to me, what happened to the quality of our adventurers? Back in my day, adventurers weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.” – Elderly Elezen

*"I heard he came into some gil recently, first that rich Mavanix boy, and then that Baelhyn heir.. I bet he's a no-good golddigger!" - Scandalous Elezen

'''''Rare Rumors:''''' 

*“The other week I caught him hanging out with an Ixal near Murmur Rills, looked pretty comfortable with em’. Guess when it comes to friends he don’t discriminate even between beastmen, could probably use that as some damn good blackmail though.” – Scheming Roegadyn

*“You know about those rich aristocrats in Ul’dah right? Apparently that bloke might’ve had some intimate relations with one of them, or one of their sons; whichever, it don’t matter much, anyway it ended sourly. Rarely ventures into Ul’dah now, or at least that’s what I noticed, and I would know! I sell the airship tickets from Gridania!” – Gossipy Elezen

*“Heard his parents might still be alive despite them being off the grid for years. Don’t think he’s interested in trying to locate them though, I think they used to use him just for their benefit and dumped him in Gridania when it got rough.” – Softspoken Midlander

'''''Player Character Rumors (Feel free to add your own!):'''''

* "He is a loyal sort, with a bigger heart than his chest can contain. If you are inquiring after him with intention to harm, I will string you up and flay the flesh from your bones." -[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]

* "I never cared about anyone like I did him. But alas, Nymeia had other plans." -[[Kylin Felstar]]

* "Who? Oh- Yea, he's tall. And.. large? No, really, I've not met him but twice or so.. I can't tell you much about him. If you see him though, tell him I didn't mean to hit him aye?" -[[Aysun Demiir]]

== '''''Affiliations''''' ==

*'''''[[Burgenheim Rousa]]:''''' Gerik's new confidant and best friend, he visited the Corvus Cinis Headquarters nearly every day while living in Ul'dah to visit him. He loves the stories the Roegadyn tells him. Gerik is thankful for the Roegadyn's presence, as Burgenheim was the only friend he had in Ul'dah at the time.

*'''''[[Kerr V'yen]]:''''' A male miqote he met when assisting in the rehabilitation of Gridania. They have since lost contact, but being that Kerr was the first male miqo'te Gerik has met, Kerr made quite an impression.

*'''''[[Kylin Felstar]]:''''' Quite possibly one of the most unexpected friends he's ever had. Kylin didn't turn out to be what Gerik expected a rich entitled heir to be. They had an intense short-lived relationship over a few months; Gerik now believes Kylin is dead due to 5 years of no contact.

*'''''[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]:''''' Deirdre has grown to be a matriarchal figure for Gerik. Despite him not knowing why she often goes out of her way to protect him, he enjoys her company. She's also served as Gerik's mentor of sorts in the art of the dagger. Recently relations between them got more awkward because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years and believes her dead.

*'''''[[Blade Belisaire]]:''''' Blade has been a sort of recurring acquaintance for Gerik; they first met when Gerik tried to pick him up in a bar. He doesn't know much about the man, except that he's been acting a bit.. off, as of lately. He hasn't seen him in 5 years and believes him dead.

*'''''[[Eva Ianeira]]:''''' Gerik finds Eva a very pleasant acquaintance. He doesn't know her that well, however she gave him medical attention after his shoulder had been stabbed and he feels indebted to her to a degree. He'd like to get to know the even-tempered duskwight better. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Ariel Madaellyn]]:'''''At their first meeting, Gerik was very much intimidated by Ariel, she holds such an authoritative aura about her.  However he's begun to let his guard down around her and has decided that she's genuinely a nice person. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Selene Artemis]]:''''' He knows Selene as Blade's girlfriend. The two haven't really gotten to know each other much, but he feels awkward about their relationship because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Yssen Van]]:''''' Very few words have been exchanged between Yssen and Gerik. Previously finding Yssen hypocritical on the topic of his sister and distancing himself between Yssen, he's decided to let the past be the past. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

== '''''Fan Art''''' ==

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the art done of Gerik, and I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to draw him!

<spoiler>

[[File:CJGerik2.jpg]]

[[File:GerikMtotoresize.jpeg]]

[[File:GerikDeirdre.jpeg]]

[[File:CJGerik.jpg]]

[[File:Gerik by michialmasy-d67dx5n.png]]

[[File:NNFCD.jpg]]

[[File:GerikPants.png]]

[[File:Gerikcupcake.png]]

</spoiler>

== '''''Annotations''''' ==

'''''The Sketchbook:''''' Since he was young, Gerik has always kept a sketchbook handy, primarily because of his affinity to drawing.  He's gone through quite a lot over the years (13 total) and keeps them in his lodging with the exception of the one being used, which is always kept on his person.  Many of his sketches are of the creatures that live in Eorzea, as well as men he finds attractive.  He's quite private about the contents of his sketchbook, save for those people he trusts the most.  One of the caretakers at the Acorn Orchard got him his first sketchbook, and since then he's been attached to the idea.

*'''''Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to talk to me about planning an RP or something. Either sending me a /tell in game or a PM on the RPC will work. I'm down for most everything, plus Gerik needs more friends!'''''

If you wanted more stuff to read about Gerik, you could check out these pages on TvTropes: [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GentleGiant Gentle Giant], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DumbMuscle Dumb Muscle], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/MenCantKeepHouse Men Can't Keep House], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TheSlacker The Slacker], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GymBunny Gym Bunny], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/StraightGay Straight Gay].

'''''Actor who would Portray Gerik''''': [http://www.thepictureswarehouse.com/d/72483-1/Marco+Dapper+picture+6.jpg Marco Dapper]

'''''Theme Song''''': [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-gXQqtjBjU Lazy Daydream]

File:Gerikava.png

2013-06-14T23:03:31Z

Gerik:

Rin'to Rakutan

2013-06-11T00:40:27Z

Gerik: Created page with "{{Infobox-character | name = A'eyshn Demiir | image = Aysun_thanalan.png | imagewidth = 310 | imageheight = 356 | title = "Aysun" | gender = Female | race = Miqo'te | clan = S..."

{{Infobox-character
| name = A'eyshn Demiir
| image = Aysun_thanalan.png
| imagewidth = 310
| imageheight = 356
| title = "Aysun"
| gender = Female
| race = Miqo'te
| clan = Seekers of the Sun
| citizenship = Limsa Lominsa
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = [[Oschon, the Wanderer]]
| stat_2 = Occupation
| stat_2_value = Freelancer/Adventurer, Dancer
| stat_3 =
| stat_3_value =
}}

=== Biographical ===

----

'''Given name:''' A'eyshn Demiir 
AKA.. ''Aysun'' - Since her traditional Seeker name is a struggle for some to read and pronounce properly, she uses this. 

'''Pronunciation:''' ''[Aye-soon Deh-meer]''

'''Nicknames/Aliases:''' 
''Kitten'' - She's been given this nickname by several friends now. She used to resent it. 
''M'hleaka'' - ''[Mlee-kuh]'' Her stage name/identity used at the Mineral Concern.

'''Nameday:''' 16th Sun of the 3rd Umbral Moon, 1553

'''Age:''' 19 according to her, 24 according to her namesday

'''Place of birth:''' On the tradeship ''Alacritie'' near Limsa Lominsa.

'''Current residence:''' ''Missing in Action'', Carteneau Flats

'''Starting City:''' Ul'dah.

'''Grand Company Allegiance:''' The Maelstrom.

'''Employment:''' (pre-ARR) Amajina & Sons Mineral Concern (Miners' Guild).

'''Marital Status:''' Single, uninterested.

'''Religion/philosophy:''' Follower of the Twelve with emphasis on [[Llymlaen, the Navigator]] due to her maritime roots. While she has never been overly reliant on her belief in the Twelve, recent events have caused her to fall back on them quite a bit. She prayed frequently at the Anchor Yard since she discovered the appearance of Llymlaen's mark there. She tends to be superstitious about things she does not understand.

'''Laterality:''' Ambidextrous, favors right hand.

'''IC Journal:''' [http://aeyshndemiir.wordpress.com Aysun's Journal]

==== Abilities ====

*Archery (Bard) – She is a fine archer, though her skill set was always more aligned with hunting than battles. She favors short bows but is able to wield a long bow if needed. The rest of it she was introduced to by a traveling Bard with whom she found a connection in Gridania. She is most confident in these support roles.

*Conjury - Aysun decided it was time to give conjury a real try out of necessity. She quickly discovered she had a knack for it. She does not understand the workings of the art and has never sought instruction or guidance from the Conjurers' Guild, she merely knows that she can do it. Magic, something that frightened her so much in the past, is now something she puts to use to help others as much as possible.

*Disciple of the Hand - Thanks to her upbringing as a "cabin girl" of sorts, she had a basic foundation in crafting. Once leaving the life on the ship, Botany also became a passion quite quickly to support her trades, which in turn helps support her financially.

*The Echo - She is touched by this "gift." Will not use it on a whim, ever. Like with most things that she does not understand, Aysun is leery about it (even embarrassed, for fear of being different). She generally just acts like she is not afflicted by it. The affinity with language is something she finds harder to avoid.

Less Useful:

*She has exceptionally poor night-vision. As a Seeker of the Sun, her eyes are adapted to the bright light of day, leaving her at a loss at night. 
*She is directionally-challenged sometimes, prone to getting turned around or lost in unfamiliar places. One of the reasons she dislikes the Black Shroud. 
*She is not skilled in close combat and easily overpowered in such situations. She is however quite nimble and quick.

==== Appearance ====

[[File:AysunPortrait_byGerik.png|250px|right|(Art by Gerik Aston)]]'''Height:''' Very Short (by Miqo'te standards). ~4 fulms 8 ilms.

'''Weight:''' Less than average. ~95 ponz.

'''Body:''' Petite. Trim. Small bust.

'''Hair:''' Short, very blonde, naturally highlighted from sun-exposure, and generally amiss. Judging by the whispiness of it, if let to grow long again it would be distinctly curly.

'''Eyes:''' Slitted pupils with bold heterochromia: left eye is blue, right eye is a brown.

'''Skin:''' Medium Fair.

'''Scars/Markings:''' Light brown markings on her cheeks (she compares them to freckles). No visible tattoos. She has her ears pierced but she rarely wears earrings. Scar on her right thigh and a large scar on the mid right side of her abdomen; she is vain enough to wear clothes that conceal them when possible.

'''Clothes:''' She most often wears self-made cloth and leather clothing (she doesn't even own any true heavy armor). Generally modestly dressed when she is not at the Concern, harnesses and coatees are avoided. She nearly ''always'' wears some sort of halfgloves, usually leather. If one caught her without her halfgloves, she would be seen to always have a piece of old twine tied around her left ring finger, worn like a ring.

'''Voice:''' A medium feminine pitch, sometimes dry, rather monotone and flat. Not overly animated unless she is clearly very excited about something, or upset. Her accent is a much more subtle version of Limsa Lominsan and she can sometimes sound rather uneducated through her choice of words.

=== The Dancer ===

----

Aysun supplemented her income by dancing at Amajina & Sons Mineral Concern (the Miners' Guild) in Ul'dah. She was a "Mineral Girl" for two years. While she did not participate in the ''other'' kinds of dances given there, she was certainly good enough performing to help her make her living. The stigma the Mineral Girls earned due to some of their ranks' activities prompted Aysun to take on a stage name for her performances. For much of her time there, she wore a half-mask during her performances and used the stage name M'hleaka to avoid being recognized and labeled a prostitute. Because of her job there, Aysun gets very uncomfortable and sometimes defensive in conversations that turn to the subject of the Miners' Guild and those who work there.

Aysun danced because she absolutely ''loved'' to, and the Mineral Concern was a place she could do it regularly for an audience - even if that audience was more interested in her body than her talent. Some of her style could be recognized by Limsa Lominsa native islanders, because she was first exposed to dance on the islands near there, but much of it she has developed on her own as well. Her attire was minimal during performances, much like the other dancers there. This part of her life is no longer a big secret. She abandoned her half-mask shortly before the Dalamud events, although they still know her under her stage name. She donned a blue chemise made for her by [[Eva Ianeira]] that was designed to conceal her midriff scar for these later performances.

=== Tendencies ===

----

'''Likes:'''[[File:AysunDancing_byEiri.png|right|(Art by K'aworu Rhea)]]
*Warmth, sunshine (Thanalan) 
*Solitude, most of the time 
*Taner, her somewhat dumb chocobo 
*Children 
*Sweets (pastries, chocolate) 
*Fish, usually raw 
*Hot Tea with milk 
*Rum and Ale of all qualities (to excess) 
*Camping 
*Swimming 
*Dawn 
*Dancing 
*Fishing 
*Exploring the new, mapping the old

'''Dislikes:'''

*Being touched 
*Waiting 
*Reading/Studying 
*Rain, unexpected swims 
*Talking, sometimes 
*Assumptions 
*Darkness 
*Men of her race 
*Crayfish

==== Personality ====

:As Aysun has developed through RP she's become more of what she truly was supposed to be. She IS obnoxious at times, has some obvious character flaws, but there are many friendly parts to her personality too. If I were to choose a [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSfVi7TThsQ theme song]..

'''Behaviors:''' 
:True to her race's stereotype, Aysun is a rather introverted individual. She doesn't always do well in large social gatherings (and sometimes even in small ones), often staying out of conversation and simply observing unless she's approached or intrigued. Although she has been practicing "being social" lately, as she calls it, and is much more prone to speaking and expressing herself at times. All this doesn't mean she isn't a friendly sort anyway, but it certainly means it could be a little harder see what she's all about. Once she opens up, however, she is nice.. if you can get past her occasional tactlessness.

:She's very blunt, often not realizing that what she's said or done could be considered rude, and she can be brutally honest when she feels strongly about something. She also teases those she identifies as friends or possible friends, to a fault however, and may unintentionally come off as a bit mean when she is just playing. She also jokes sarcastically a lot when she's nervous, often from being unsure of how to say what she's thinking. Certain characters, usually overly sensitive or defensive, will just not mesh with her somewhat abrasive personality - I expect that and please don't feel you have to force your character to put up with it if it's not what they'd do! I blame this abrasive behavior (and her overall obliviousness to proper manners) on her being raised with a bunch of sailors who were as likely to settle things with a fight as they would over drinks.

:She can be sharp-tongued and downright rude if pushed the wrong way or feeling jealous. She can be immature when she allows her emotions to get the best of her, while other times she is able to be surprisingly rational and intelligent about things. If she's feeling bitter over something she'll sometimes express it passive-aggressively with her words, piping in with scathing sarcastic remarks. She is impulsive and sometimes gets into scuffles because of it, however if she is particularly emotional about something, she usually just leaves abruptly to escape the situation rather than dealing with it and her feelings. She's quick to repress and ignore problems with herself rather than deal with them.

:Forming bonds with others is a struggle, due to her communication ineptitude and her apparent inability to share things about herself without direct prompting/questioning. She enjoys observing and listening to people, but sometimes has trouble showing sympathy or empathy, even though she feels it. Another contributing factor is her past. A few key people in her life have disappeared on her after she opened up and bonded with them, leaving her very hurt, and thus she has begun being even more careful about befriending people.

'''Morals:''' 
:She believes firmly in her morals, what is right and what is wrong, though she often is unable to explain or justify why she thinks certain things are right and others are not. She can be hypocritical, and doesn't always practice what she preaches, though she is aware of it and often wishes she did. She's also fiercely protective of people and ideas she deems good or loyal.
:Her overall intentions are to do good in life.
:Alignment: [http://easydamus.com/chaoticgood.html Chaotic Good]

'''Mind:''' 
:Smart, but not book-smart. She just doesn’t have the attention span for studying from them. If she wants to learn to do something, rather than reading theory, she simply tries it. She is a firm believer in practice-practice-practice. She doesn't get bored and flighty as long as she's doing something, which means she busies herself with her crafts quite often.

'''Quirks:''' 
:She's generally quite prudish, from her dressing to simply being embarrassed easily. This is often why her employment at the Mineral Concern is a surprise to most.
:Flirting is awkward for her, and often ends in her simply embarrassing herself or saying something that makes the other person uncomfortable, so she tends to just avoid it.
:She does not like being touched in any fashion by others. It won't usually anger her, but it will leave her obviously uncomfortable. There are a couple friends who are exceptions.
:She is a bit fickle, and can disappear for days at a time, usually off doing leves for some gil or getting some much needed time alone.

=== History ===

----

:Simple.

:Born and grown at sea, A'eyshn was raised by her mother and a crew of vagrants on a reliable, although not very reputable trading vessel, the ''Alacritie''. There were no other children or Miqo'te to grow up with, nor females at all other than her highly-regarded Mum... and a few Hyur wenches that stowed away, of course, later to be welcomed by the men needing comfort in their hammocks.[[File:AysunPortrait_bySelene.jpg|450px|right|(Art by Selene Artemis)]]

:But her young mother had also needed comfort during one particular docking in her home, Limsa Lominsa... there she met a Miqo'te with blue eyes she could not resist. After a short, whirl-wind romance, it was back to sea with the other men. Several moons passed, and she confessed to the Captain, hugging the unmistakable bulge at her abdomen the entire time. There was no denying it. Ashamed, she promised she would not entangle herself like that again. She would be alone raising the child, he disappeared, and she would not leave the ship. It was lucky she kept her position as Quartermaster at all, let alone being allowed to raise her daughter there. But a fish born at sea under Llymlaen, the Navigator would make for such a talented catch, the Captain knew this, and intended to exploit it to the crew's gains. But when the girl came, it was Oschon, the Wanderer who was to be her guardian. She would be no proper sea-liver, and they all knew she would leave that life one day.

:None the less, until that day arrived she was to be the "cabin girl" of sorts. They trained her in tailoring. She learned to manipulate and create with leathers, cloths, and woods. The cook, a short and round Lalafell with kind, wrinkly eyes, even began teaching her to experiment with what he called "alchemicals." What a place it was for a child.. she had no friends her age or time to truly play. It was always chores and learning, observing, and practicing. Life on the tradeship was often also dangerous: pirates attacked the ship unrelentingly, wanting the goods that were the crew's livelihood. But Llymlaen is merciful, even to those who were not born to her guardianship, and they escaped them time and time again while the child was hidden below decks. Arm wrapped around a post near her hammock to steady herself, hands worked at repairing clothing for the men. They must at some point all seconded as disciples of war, the way they fought for their lives and gil alike. Her mother held worn bone needles in her teeth, and showed the girl to stretch and flatten the fabric, to stitch the seams and repair the leathers. It was always hard to concentrate and learn with the loud sounds of the attacks, but eventually they would stop.

:As she grew older, the Wanderer's influence on her nature became more apparent. Many bells she spent staring out at the Indigo Deep and the Rhotana Sea. There were so many islands they stopped at along the way. There were Hyur girls on these islands, and they danced so beautifully. The girl studied their dances, practicing with such a grin, a lovely carved mask given to her by one of the girls her age as a prop. Back on the ship mostly she was alone, and she danced to the music she heard in her heart whenever she could. Sometimes, however, the men played real music for her on deck, and she was met with cheers. Nothing made her happier than to hear that sound.

:Eventually the girl wasn't a girl anymore, she was a woman. Far south they went on one route, leaving the humid air at the Cape of Deadwind before docking once more. This place, Thanalan... it was this place she had to be. The sun shown long hours, and dry heat warmed her. It was amazing and it called to her. But the ship had to return to Limsa Lominsa, its storage was full of pelts and ores and its supplies were replenished with exotic cactus-fruits, nuts, and fresh and dried meats from the inland – a real treat for the men.

:Dressed in her best, she waved to her mother, a weathered short bow on her back (something she was taught the ways of when Mum felt the need to expose the girl to some of the Miqo'te culture she was raised so distantly from). The rough seamen she grew up with, Highlander and Midlander Hyurs, a lone quiet giant of a Roegadyn, even an Elezen, and of course that round little Lalafell, vagrants, and such good men, were there waving to her.

:As many places as the girl had been, the places she had seen.. she had truly seen only a fraction of Eorzea as it was known to those born and raised on the land. The people, the races she'd never interacted with (mostly her own), she knew nothing of them or their rumors of war. She would find a caravan to take her to the city nearest, one called Ul'dah. There, a parade was taking place.

:Oh, there was a dancer, like her.. How lovely she was. Perhaps she could find somewhere in this city to work and dance too?

::Hear. Feel. Think.

::[http://aeyshndemiir.wordpress.com A lot can happen in two years.]

===Relationships===

----

====Family====

Mother
'''A'ruija Demiir''' 
''[Ah-ree-yuh Deh-meer]'' 
Location: An island known as Menphina's Breath 

Father
'''???''' 
Location: Unknown

====Friends & Foes====

[This is OOC knowledge not to be used IC. Aysun's opinions and relationships of those she's interacted with. Just for '''fun'''~.]

[[Aoixin Kaeteklizem]]: Acquaintance. Misses Ixin's cooking. Thinks he is the strangest being she's ever met. [RIP Kayleen 1/9/87-12/24/11]

Calzien Gishaborah: Friend. Calzien has grown on Aysun. His blissful ignorance annoys her, still. She wishes she could teach him more of Eorzea, but finds it hard to keep his attention.

[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]: Acquaintance. Clashed in the past. Aysun's gotten over it, and Deirdre seems not to remember or recognize her. Aysun was more than a little happy to hold her Deir's new baby but finds the woman herself a bit off.

[[Elza Ashfen]]: Acquaintance. Another of the Mavanix family, whom Aysun helped rescue in the waterways beneath Ul'dah. Again, she is sure this girl has more than meets the eye.

[[Eva Ianeira]]: Friend. Aysun frequently feels that she has done something wrong or offensive when she is around Eva, and often this feeling makes her even more likely to say something inappropriate. Eva's social graces and peaceful disposition, as well as her seemingly endless amount of logical advice, are all things that Aysun admires. Despite often seeming to disagree with her, she loves to listen to Eva speak; it's rather odd.

[[Galvadan Edgecrusher]]: Good friend, missing, presumed dead. She keeps Galvadan's journal for him on his request (to keep it safe, he says). Nebulous allowed them to become very close friends. His fiercely protective nature has led her think of him almost as a father figure. She misses him immensely.

[[Gerik Aston]]: Acquaintance. Someone who seems just like an all-around nice fellow. She liked that he did not judge her for her dancing at the Concern.. and was able to keep his eyes above her neck easily.

[[Kylin Felstar]]: Acquaintance, presumed dead. While familiar with Kylin due to House Mavanix and Crystalline, Aysun does not know him on a personal level. All she knows is he seems awful quiet. Hearing of his apparent death was jarring to her.

[[Lyriah Karnelle]]: Friend (strained friendship). Lyriah's mental breakdown during a sparring match nearly killed Aysun. While Aysun knows it was not intentional, and that Lyriah was sick, and even said she forgave her.. Aysun cannot shake the unease of being around a woman who almost took her life.

[[Manari Onai]]: Acquaintance. Disagreements between the two has soured Aysun's opinion of Manari, despite Manari's obvious attempts to patch things up (which Aysun readily rejected). Continued friendliness and Manari's honesty has brought Aysun's judgement of her back to neutral, though she still doesn't know her very well.

Mihana Zhralyia: Good friend. Though Mihana is a bit over the top at times, the two get along well usually. Teasing and bickering seem like common themes in their friendship. One always seems to be jealous of or competing with the other on some childish level. Mihana often refers to Aysun as a sister.

[[Mnim Taawli]]: Good friend. Aysun greatly enjoys Mnim's company and loves to tease her, which Mnim happily returns. Leads the transport/delivery company Sojourn. Likely the only person Aysun has sought out directly for help dealing with her past. She misses her.

[[Nanami Takanaru]]: Friend. Any friendship here is very strained due to Nanami's dramatic lifestyle and the pairs' past. Aysun sometimes still avoids Nanami to escape the awkwardness and discomfort that being around her always brings up. She tries to be friendly, though.

Nel Celestine: Acquaintance. Disagreements, mostly during Nel's pregnancy, drove Aysun's opinion of her into the dirt. She also irrationally blamed Nel for dragging her own pain to the surface again. Nel has "come around" though, and she has started to consider her a possible friend.

[[Navei Asue]]: Friend, deceased (unknown to her). Her guarding buddy for a brief time at the ''Astalicia''. She enjoys conversation with Navei and forcing him into silly situations. Eating raw fish, for example! Was her boss at Nebulous.

Rjain Midnight: Enemy. At one point Rjain kidnapped Aysun and vented her rage at Sanctus Refero on her, until she escaped days later with a stab wound to her thigh and generally roughed up. Rjain has not been seen since this incident and Aysun has not spoken a word about what happened to anyone.

Runek Cross: Lover, missing, presumed dead. A mysterious man from Aysun's past that only a few know of. She fell recklessly in love with him, and the hurt left over from their short relationship has left her scarred emotionally.

Sasha Alier: Friend. A woman she never thought she would see with admiration when she first met her as a pirate, but now after spending time with her in Nebulous it is very different. Aysun looks up to Sasha quite a bit, and admires her balance of patience and assertiveness.

[[Selene Artemis]]: Best friend. A previous coworker from Everwatch turned friend and roommate. Aysun has the utmost trust in Selene despite her past, and has become dependent on her and their relationship for stability. The two share a fondness of alcohol as well.

Syesta Rajani: Acquaintance. Syesta is another woman Aysun admired in some way, but her disappearance and subsequent reappearance and acceptance back without explanation has left Aysun not nearly as trusting of her as she was previously.

===Etcetera===
----

====Directory Info====

[[File:AysunBRD_bySiobhain.jpg|350px|right|(Art by Siobhain Surtsthalwyn)]]
RL Name: I go by Aysun online 
RL Age: 26 
Country: USA 
Timezone: Central 
RL Gender: Female

Schedule

:I have a pseudo curfew on myself, so Sun-Thu I am rarely online after 10:00pm Central so that I can function the next day at the lab. I am also a wife so I try to spend time with my husband! I am usually on after 3:30pm Central time if I am able to get on that day. Weekends I usually get on a little earlier unless I'm out trying to have a life.

RP style (light, casual, moderate, or heavy)?

:Moderate/Heavy preferred. I am a scientist, RP is my creative escape. I'm not 'always' IC when you run into me, though. It's usually quite obvious, because I tend to abuse smilies or speak in [brackets] if I'm not IC.
:I still want to progress in-game, so feel free to send me an OOC tell asking me to party, NM hunt, do leves, or whatever. However, do note that I LOVE doing these things IC too! Aysun's an adventurer, after all.

What kind of RP relationships are you seeking? (family ties, etc)

:Friendships, Enemies, Employers/Commissioners, Recruiters, Drunk sleazebags at the Concern, Seething hatred, Family-ties, People to explore with... Give me some drama, casual, raids, whatever! I honestly just want to RP. It doesn't have to be complicated, long-term; even interactions in passing just add so much life to the game!

How far from the actual lore are you willing to stray?

:I like the lore, and I would like to stay as close to the lore as possible, however I'm not perfect and we are still learning about it, so I understand character development/changes as we learn more.

====Links====

:[http://www.crystalline-rp.net Crystalline]
:[http://www.ffxiv-roleplayers.com/ Hydaelyn Roleplayers (RPC)]
:[http://nebulous.guildwork.com/ Nebulous]
:[http://ost.guildwork.com/ Omniscient]

====Images====

[http://imgur.com/a/WxVeY#0 das art] 
I went from having no art, to.. suddenly, ''much'' art! It'd be wrong not to put most of it up somewhere, since I think it's all lovely. I thank each and every person who's taken the time to draw Aysun, in any fashion. I love seeing it and appreciate it <3 (even the mean ones, Selene... D<)!

''Thank you~'' 
Selene Artemis 
Gerik Aston 
Deirdre Ta'ea 
Paradyme Capellago 
Siobhain Surtsthalwyn 
Rhostel Donlan 
K'aworu Rhea 
Lyriah Karnelle 
Abaigeal Causland 
Mtoto Wamoto 
Shippuu Hecatonchires 
Tim'a Fei

Gerik Aston

2013-06-09T17:18:55Z

Gerik:

<div style="padding: 12px; background-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">


{{Infobox-character
| name = Gerik Brynn Aston
| image = GerikAVARef.png
| imagewidth = 300
| caption =
| title = The Zephyr
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = Menphina, the Lover
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 26 (Post Dalamud)
| stat_3 = Nameday
| stat_3_value = 26th Sun of the 6th Astral Moon
| stat_4 = Orientation
| stat_4_value = Homosexual
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Beekeeper
}}

== '''''General''''' ==

''Gerik is a laid-back, charismatic highlander and can usually be seen with a smile on his face. He tries hard to avoid as much responsibility as possible (save for those causes he deems worth fighting for), not because he’s lazy, per se, he just wants to feel like he has the freedom to do what he wants, when he wants. Feeling his bare feet in the grass or the cool breeze that blows through the Twelveswood are some of his greatest pleasures.''

== '''''Appearance''''' ==

[[File:GerikRedClothes400.png|right|]]

'''''Height:'''''

:6 fulms, 6 ilms - he is a bit taller than most Highlanders. 

'''''Weight:'''''

:243 ponz – Gerik is a bit bulky in terms of muscle. He attributes his physique to good genes as he doesn't really do anything consciously to retain or build muscle. 

'''''Body:'''''

:Gerik is well-built and defined having somewhat of a gymnast's build. Having worked for a short time at the Greatloam Growery in [[Gridania]] assisted in the development of muscle as well as his normal ability to retain his physique has ensured that Gerik is somewhat of a prime specimen of desire for the opposite sex.. or in his case, the same sex. He thinks his best attributes are probably his chest and arms. 

'''''Complexion:'''''

:Tanned, bronzed skin covers Gerik's body. He used to have a few scars, but since he's been cohabiting with Deirdre she's returned his skin to its original condition. He has a symmetrical tattoo on his face, a simple design comprised of six white lines. 

'''''Hair:'''''

:Gerik normally crops his hair very close to the scalp. He's considered growing it out however he generally doesn't like when his hair grows long enough to touch his ears. If he let it grow out, its natural color would be one of a darker burgundy or maroon. A moderate amount of stubble grows on his jawline, normally Gerik doesn't bother to trim it everyday, opting to trim it once every three days or so. Starting at his belly button, Gerik has a light dusting of hair that leads down to his genital region, sometimes he shaves it off, other times not. 

'''''Fashion:'''''

:Shirtless is the way to go for Gerik. He finds that it provides the most freedom in terms of everyday activities, and he also likes to feel the breeze around him. However in situations where a shirt of some sort is necessary, he'll tend to use some sort of lightweight, breathable fabric. He also has a set of clothing for more formal events, he thinks that the wedge cap from the set makes him looks less intimidating. In downtime alone, Gerik can be seen in normally just his underwear, or a set of pants and shoes. 

== '''''Personality''''' ==

Due to Gerik's odd upbringing, he still remains a child at heart. More than anything he wants to be liked and to have people he can trust and rely on. He's very social and trusts people very easily due to this, however at the same time he's also afraid to let people get too close for the fear of others hurting him. Others might perceive him as being gullible and a bit slow and they'd probably be right. He never had a 'good' education, so in that regard he's not quite so bright. During his time spent at Gridania he's learned a little about how to cultivate plants, which plants have medicinal properties to them, and which plants are safe to eat, in addition to a bunch of other assorted knowledge about plants and creatures within the forest. Many would describe Gerik as 'lucky', sometimes things happen to him with little to no effort on his part, or he gets something accomplished in a very unorthodox manner.

Despite him not being a 'Forestborn,' he thinks he's earned the trust of the local Gridanians enough for them to treat him as one. He's spent a lot of his time in the Twelveswood, even going as far as to camp in the canopies of the trees at night. When on these extended camping trips he usually spends most of his time napping, or observing the happenings within the forest, his employers are generally not pleased as he may not come in to work for a few days or more. His favorite haunt is the White Willow near Camp Emerald Moss.

'''''Family''''': 
Gerik's mother and father were trading merchants, often travelling between every city-state. His surname, Aston, comes from his mother's maiden name and its midlander origins come from the words "East", and "tun", or the settlement to the east of a main village near the ash trees. Eirika, Gerik's mother, was daughter to a former Ala Mhigan noble house. His father, Ganun, was a commoner, and as such, Eirika was never quite satisfied being married to him. Their son, Gerik is 3/4 Highlander and 1/4 Midlander (from his mother's side).

'''''Personality Traits:'''''

*Charismatic

*Hedonistic

*Absent-Minded

*Clumsy

*Slothful

*Athletic

*Trusting

*Jovial

*Messy

*Warm

*Slow-Witted

*Lucky

[[File:GerikAVA.png|right]]

'''''Talents:'''''

*Socialization

*Wilderness Survival

*Singing (Singing voice is based off John Martin, please ignore the electronic background music [http://youtu.be/RLaSjeCFnlE] [http://youtu.be/-yg3dLEDWqs] [http://youtu.be/-bt94yKsKHQ])

*Sketching 

*Tracking/Hunting 

*Stealth 

 

'''''Likes:''''' 

*The Twelveswood

*Riding Airships

*Freedom

*Gossip

*Fireworks 

'''''Favorite Food:''''' 

*Raw Oyster

'''''Favorite Color:''''' 

*A bit undecided, definitely either blue or green though.

'''''Favorite Creature:'''''

*Apkallus

 

'''''Dislikes:''''' 

*Snooty condescending people

*The Ul’dahan “gil makes the world go round” mentality

*People who disrespect the Twelveswood

*Being used

*Books and Reading

 

'''''Fears:''''' 

*Feeling obligated to a lot of responsibility

*Becoming incapacitated, or otherwise less mobile 

*Losing peoples' favor 

 

----

=== '''''Demeanor:''''' ===

Gerik tends to take a flippant approach to the world, that is, everything but a few select things are not taken quite as seriously as they should be, he also comes off as an optimist. Some of his favorite pasttimes are conversing and meeting new people. His charismatic and charming nature make acquiring friends a simple task, however he’s not one to sugarcoat things, instead preferring to be blunt and openly disagree should a point he feels is wrong manifest. In fact, due to his blunt nature, sometimes inappropriate comments may be blurted out. Despite this, Gerik tries hard to be as good-natured and kindhearted as possible.

[[File:GerikLayDown2.png|right]]
 

'''''Quirks:''''' 

*Has a very large appetite, can usually be seen snacking if there is nothing more pressing to attend to, nobody really knows how he stays in shape, not even Gerik.

*Gerik is quite sloppy; he strategically packs his bag every morning, his strategy for packing is to take a bunch of stuff strewn on the floor of his room and haphazardly dump it into his bag.

*Finds Roegadyn men absolutely endearing, he entertains the idea of a cuddly Roegadyn, and likes it, '''a lot'''.

 

----

== '''''History:''''' ==

'''''Childhood''''' 

:Gerik hails from Ala Mhigo. His parents worked as traveling merchants selling and trading wares from one city-state to another. His mother sang to crowds in an effort to increase sales and forced Gerik to do the same once he was old enough.  During the time of the Garlean invasion, Gerik and his parents were in Gridania. Due to Gerik being a child at the time, they decided it would be safer for them to travel since he would be a burden and abandoned him in Gridania. There, he was raised in the Acorn Orchard with other Gridanian children. During his time growing up, he spent a lot of time in the forest basking in its beauty and enjoying the company of the creatures that are native to the Twelveswood. 

'''''Adolescency''''' 

:At the age of adolescency, Gerik decided he should find something meaningful to do with his life and repay the debt he felt he owed to Gridania, and since he's had a sizeable amount of prior experience with a bow (hunting) as well as the practice of tracking prey and remaining unseen; thus he began training more seriously in the art of archery with aspirations to become a member of the God's Quiver (he also dabbled a bit in the art of lances thinking he might be able to join the Wood Wailers, as well as conjury at the Stillglade Fane, however he dismissed these ideas once he realized he couldn't possibly attempt to join all three factions).  

'''''Adulthood''''' 

:However it was not to be; he was not accepted into the God's Quiver on reasons that are still unknown to him, instead they referred him to someone referred to as the "Godsbow." After much listening to Jehantel's songs and using them as a basis for study, he's slowly been increasing his repertoire of songs. Still, he prefers to not perform in public as he's a bit self-conscious. Gerik is currently looking into alternative ways to assist Gridania's cause due to his inability to assist the God's Quiver.  His previous employment history was that of a simple lumberjack for the Botanist's Guild in Gridania. Prior to Dalamud, he found employment with the Shimmersong mercenaries, their headquarters residing in Owl's Nest; he finds the region of Coerthas breathtaking. Presently, he volunteers at the Honey Yard and lives in Ul'dah.
 
----

'''Dreadful Cacaphony''' - 0 
<spoiler>"Ugh." A young highlander woman sighed. "Ganun it it's crying again honestly how can one get her beauty rest with that dreadful cacaphony going on." She rolled over and slapped the highlander male lying adjacent to her. "Wake up and deal with it!" Ganun grunted in defeat and rolled out of bed. He exasperatingly sighed "Yes dear." Ganun coddled the newborn all the while sporting his trademark scowl; eventually the child eased up and fell asleep. He walked back to bed and fell asleep. Morning came and he woke up to his wife Eirika coddling the newborn almost maternally, a trait he thought she never possessed; however his thought was interrupted when she screeched. "You know my womanhood will never be the same because of you the only good thing you've brought me is a larger set of breasts!" She gazed down at her ample cleavage admiring herself. She turned to face Ganun who just awoke. "Ganun darling shouldn't we name this abomination?" She gestured almost disgustingly at the infant. "Yes yes I suppose we should" Ganun replied. After a bell of deliberation, Eirika had a thought. "Ganun why not just combine our names and be done with this nonsense, all this thinking will give me wrinkles; so how does 'Gerik' sound? I think it it's just marvelous, of course it contains more of my name seeing as I'm the important one." She turned around and began to admire her cleavage again. "Yes, I suppose Gerik it is then." He smiled slightly at the newborn, quite possibly the first smile he had in years.</spoiler>

'''Fish & Desperation''' - 4 
<spoiler>"What is that dreadful smell; it smells like fish and desperation!" Eirika held her nose shut with her index finger and thumb. Ganun sighed and said slowly. "Dear we are in Limsa Lominsa trying to sell wares... right now we are in the fish market. Fish. Market." Eirika brushed her hair out of her face and stuck her nose up. "Ganun I do believe it is your turn to supervise Derrick." He sighed. "It's Gerik dear, and yes bring him to me." Ganun replied scowling at his wife. "Yeah, whatever." Eirika shrugged as she was applying more lipstick. "Zarik get over here this iiiinstant!" However the young child did not appear. Eirika cleared her throat and shrieked "Merik!" "Do you mean to tell me you lost our child?" Ganun inquired with the same scowl that was ever present on his face. She replied coolly, "frankly Ganun, I can't be held responsible, for you should have been paying more attention to him. What kind of father are you anyway?!" She adjusted her skirt in such a manner so that it would reveal more of her upper thigh. "But fine, have it your way, I'll go search for the little cretin." She discovered the toddler playing with two fish that probably fell off a cart during transport; two merchant-looking men were next to him offering him various other seafood to play with. "Hi bitch!" the young Gerik exclaimed happily. "You just called me what?!" Eirika's face turned red with anger. "tha-tha's what my new f'rends said your name was e'rlier." He gestured to the two merchants. The merchants stood up visibly embarrassed, we didn't mean it miss we apologi-.” Just then Eirika delivered a quick backhand to both of the merchants faces. She picked up young Gerik before he could crawl off anywhere else and stormed off. She looked down at the toddler and noticed he was holding a rothlyt oyster, she slapped it out of his hands. "No we do not touch anything that looks like a vagin-!" Ganun interrupted her. "Eirika I've prepared our stall. Are you ready?" "Really Ganun, do you have to ask, I was born ready." She flashes an almost sinister grin and brushes some hair out of her face. "But before we begin..." She fashioned a rope attached to the stall as a leash for the toddler and proceeded to arrange her clothes so that they were more revealing. When she was ready she began to sing. </spoiler>

'''Sweet Child''' - 7 
<spoiler>"C'mmere Gerik! Eirika said sternly. "Ok mommy!" Gerik jumped off a stool and ran to her eagerly. "Yes, such a sweet child... now drink this!" Eirika handed him a cup with a strange smelling liquid inside. Gerik looked up at her with a suspicious expression but drank from the clay cup anyway. Moments later, everything seemed to blur together and he passed out on the floor. Eirika turned around "Ganun did you get the man I asked for?" She pulled her hair into an updo. "Yes dear, I did." Ganun opened the door to let a highlander man into their inn room in gridania. "There's your payment... now go! Work! We've discussed the design already." Eirika gestured at Ganun to pay the man to which he obliged. The man pulled out tattooing supplies which he held in a bag and began tattooing the young highlander with the same tattoo his mother had on her face, its significance was unclear; however the highlander tattooist accepted tattooing as part of a highlander tradition and simply did his job and didn't ask questions. When he finished he simply bowed and took his leave. "Now we can find him later darling... I do hope that makes you feel better about this." She twisted a lock of hair around her finger. "Now let's go" Ganun nodded and replied sullenly. "Our wares are packed and are outside already." He looked down at the ground. "Oh that's simply wonderful, now carry this!" He grunted as she tossed a bag of her clothes into his arms. The two highlanders exited the gridanian inn room and left to embark on their mercantile journey to Ul'dah.</spoiler>

'''Something Naughty''' - 10 
<spoiler>Holding a roll of paper in one hand and a stick of charcoal held between his teeth, Gerik began to climb a young tree in the Twelveswood. The cool breeze felt good against his skin. It had been three years since his parents disappeared. He touched the tattoo on his face almost nostalgicly; reflecting for a moment, but just a moment because it got interrupted by him expelling the charcoal from his mouth. "What to draw today?" he thought to himself. Thoughts ran through his head of possible ideas, but he eventually settled on a fluffy marmot on the grass below. "Guess it's another marmot today." Slowly he used the charcoal to render his masterpiece. When he was done, he climbed back down and headed back to the acorn orchard. "Oh my isn't this lovely it's an uh. imperial warship, or maybe it's an uh a pair of woman's bloomers..." The orphanage worker strained to see what exactly it was that Gerik drew. She turned the paper horizontally and vertically but could make no sense of what it was. "Is that something naughty?" She pointed to a blunt looking appendage attached to an unrecognizable blob. "No ma'am, that's a tail, it's a marmot." He gave her a charcoal-covered toothy smile; in return she forced one herself and replied "Why don't you take this?" The elezen woman reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook she had been using to keep her grocery list in. "You can keep your drawings in it." Gerik reached for it excitedly. "Boy! Thanks lady!" Another charcoal-covered grin was flashed at her. She sighed and hung her head. "I've told you six times already my name is Elimine." When she raised her head again, he was already halfway to the Blue Badger Gate.</spoiler>

'''Azeyma's Candle''' - 15 
<spoiler>"The festival is here!" A teenaged roegadyn gestured happily and pointed to a large fireworks machine. A group of similarly aged orphans from the acorn orchard gathered around him. Gerik looked up in wonder at the aerial fireworks, they looked like jewels bursting into the sky. "Aderyn, wait up!" The teenaged roegadyn turned around and beckoned for Gerik to join the group. When he caught up, Aderyn put his hand around Gerik's shoulder and they proceeded to walk toward the festival grounds. The motley group of orphans pooled all the gil they could scrounge up with and bought an assortment of fireworks: some red, some yellow, and some blue. Exclamations of joy could be heard from the group. Over the course of four hours, they used up all their fireworks and decided to use the big fireworks machine set in place for the festival instead. "Wanna climb up on the oak atrium for a better view?" Gerik tugged on Aderyn's sleeve. "Sure, you have the best ideas Gerik!" The two climbed onto the roof sat together and smiled in wonder at how much closer the fireworks were. An Azeyma's candle bursted in front of the pair, exploding in a myriad of colors. Just then, Gerik's hand accidentally landed on Aderyn's while readjusting himself out of a cross-legged position. "S-sorry" Gerik was about to pull his hand off Aderyn's, but Aderyn slowly pulled his hand out from under and placed it atop Gerik's. The two made eye contact for a while and Gerik slowly went in for a kiss. Noticing gerik's advance, Aderyn also slowly moved toward the highlander. It lasted but for a few seconds, then the two sat speechless on the roof of the Oak Atrium. Gerik smiled slightly all the while. Aderyn was the first to speak "Y-y'know I'm not like that, I like girls." Gerik frowned and looked off to the side, remaining silent. Aderyn continued "I'm gonna marry a nice elezen girl one day a-and we're gonna have lots of kids." He stood up and took a look another look at Gerik before climbing down the roof. Gerik pulled his knees up to his chest wrapped his arms around them and let out a deep sigh. </spoiler>

'''Logs''' - 17 
<spoiler>“So I just swing at it like that?” Gerik grinned at the Roegadyn he knew as Opyltyl. Opyltyl looked back at him and sighed. “Aye, don’t forget to ask for the elementals’ forgiveness... and do you always have to stick your tongue out when you swing?” Gerik shrugged and swung his hatchet at the tree again. He liked the way the doublet vest he bought looked on him. Of course, he decided he needed to look good for his first day at the Greatloam Growery which is why he spent most of his gil on it, plus it showed off his muscular arms, Gerik liked his arms. Opyltyl left soon after to manage the Growery. A loud yawn left his lips a few hours later and a warm, inviting-looking patch of grass caught his eye. Looking down at his meager stack of logs, he sighed and dropped his hatchet on the ground and started walking over and stretching for a nap. </spoiler>

== '''''Pre-Dalamud Summary''''' ==
Gerik's story starts with a nap. The clearing he had been laying in was warm, breezy, and most importantly, he found his favorite type of moss to lay on, for it was more spongy than the other varieties that lived on the forest floor. His snores could probably be heard from quite a while away. His boss at the Greatloam Growery had been checking up on Gerik more frequently these days since he'd often discovered that throughout the workday Gerik would wander off somewhere and take a nap. Stumbling upon Gerik in the clearing, he pulled out a flyer and a bit of plant based adhesive from his pocket and walked over to the napping Highlander. He fixed the flyer onto Gerik's forehead with the adhesive and walked away shaking his head.

Three bells or so later, Gerik awoke to find a piece of parchment stuck to his forehead, he tried to pull it off, but only succeeded in ripping the portion not directly attached to the glue off. "Shimmersong - Mercenary Company", the flyer read, curious to see what the company was about, he went to Owl's Nest and it was there that he first met Ariel Madaellyn and Yssen Van. After a lengthy interview process that intimidated Gerik to no end, he was accepted. His first mission as a mercenary was with House Mavanix; during the mission a fight broke out, Gerik primarily served as a utility role protecting the young Miyuki Tatsugawa and after the battle was when he first met Kylin Mavanix, albeit unofficially. A week or so later, another Mavanix mission came in. This time a demon named Juravis threatened the group and it needed to be slain. During this mission he met Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn and took a romantic interest in him almost immediately, being one of the few gay Roegadyns he's ever met.

Shortly after this mission, Gerik had a run in with Ysa Van, Yssen's mentally unstable sister. A fight was avoided however, and Gerik stayed in the Corvus Cinis HQ that night with Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn. Unfortunately, Gerik has never seen Sydalyr again after that and figured that Syd was just uninterested in him. Shimmersong's ranks began to bolster; Kylin Mavanix, Seohyun Iyasu and Derrick Rickkon were recruited into Shimmersong. Through Seohyun, he was introduced to Deirdre Ta'ea albeit briefly in her apartment in Limsa Lominsa. Gerik and Kylin never officially met for a while. During their first meeting Kylin and he were fast friends and this is when Gerik made a deal with Kylin to show Kylin his sketchbook in exchange for swimming lessons.

The Aleport beach was where they spent their time swimming. Gerik felt a chemistry between the two but didn't act on it, afraid of being rejected again like with Sydalyr. Gerik ran into Deirdre on the beach one day, She asked Gerik to hold her underwater, he initally said no, but then complied no matter how confused he was.

Ysa attacked Gerik again shortly thereafter in Limsa Lominsa and wanted to know about Deirdre. Gerik hesitated to give her information initially however eventually yielded when she stabbed and dislocated his shoulder. Gerik called for Kylin over the Crystalline pearl and was met with the voice of a compassionate duskwight woman. Eva stitched his wound and took care of the dislocation, since then he's felt a certain debt to her. Soon thereafter, Deirdre and Gerik went into hiding from Ysa on the cliffs of La Noscea under Oschon's Torch, there she began training him in combat, specifically, with the knife.

After Deirdre attacked Gerik out of mental instability, Kylin took Gerik to his sister Elza's cabin in Gridania where they lived for a while. Gerik and Kylin also began a relationship in this time, but it was not to last.

During the Felstar Gala chaos ensued, aether erupted from the very ground beneath the attendees. Kylin was one of the ones that got sucked down into its abyss. Gerik and Deirdre regrouped at Elza's cabin mourning the losses of Kylin and Shurin, neither of them left the cabin or spoke for several days. Deirdre and Gerik fled for the Isles of Umbra when monsters started attacking the city-states because of Dalamud's proximity. It is there they spend their last days before the fall of Dalamud.

== '''''FFXIV: A Realm Reborn''''' ==
----
==== '''''Year One:''''' ====
'''''Lamb Sausage Is Discovered:''''' <spoiler>Gerik strained his head to look back at the shore they were only twenty or thirty fulms out, but it felt like forever since they departed the Limsa docks. His rope restraints becoming more uncomfortable, but he tried to relax and enjoy the ride. He didn’t mind this positon, being tied face-down to the back of a Roegadyn; the Roegadyn’s back was comfortably warm.

The Captain of the boat “Ram’s Head” was Iawu, or “Wu” for short; a burly Hellsguard Roegadyn. “You doing all right back there? Don’t be gettin’ seasick or nothin’ or my back is gonna be covered in whatever’s in your stomach.”

Gerik managed a chuckle having relaxed significantly because of Wu’s kindness. Still he strained to look at Limsa Lominsa, trying to look for a blue haired Elezen. He thought he caught a glimpse of her for a second, but it was just what looked like a muscular man’s long blue wig blowing off in the sea breeze.

The waves rocked the boat back and forth, Wu seemed to know exactly how to steer a ship through choppy waters; it was sort of nice despite the thunder and lightning emanating from the sky above them.

“H-Hey.” Wu tensed up all of a sudden. “What’s that?”

Gerik snapped his attention from Limsa’s docks, to the horizon. Nothing. “What’s what?”

Wu looked back at Gerik sternly. “I know for a fact that I didn’t pack no lamb sausage in the back of my pants this mornin’.”
“Well.. the rocking.. and you’re so warm..” Gerik trailed off.

Wu grinned, “S’all right, I know how it is being a man.. Just don’t go drizzlin’ me with your baby gravy, I paid a lot for these pants.”

Some Bells Later –

Gerik opened his eyes from a nap, surprised by the bleakness of the sky, Dalamud seemed to glow stranger than usual. “Must be starting soon.”

Wu nodded. “I think we might be far enough from the impact zone now, but I’ll keep pressing further.”

Gerik squinted at Dalamud, “Hey, Wu, look at that..”

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. Nothing too out of the ordinary. “Look at what now?”

Gerik flashed a wide grin at Wu. “You don’t have a lamb sausage down your pants anymore”

Wu smiled, rolled his eyes, and turned back to the wheel. “Boy, and it only took a few bells to do so!”

To their left a large splash erupted, a few passengers on the ship ran to look at the commotion. When they realized that it was a fragment of Dalamud, they fled for cover below the bridge. More fragments came flying their way, most hitting the water far away. Gerik breathed a sigh of relief.

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. “What the – Are those wings?”

Gerik gripped Wu’s torso. “It’s coming closer.”

In an instant the giant wyrm was overhead and seemed to be en route to Limsa.

“You’d best hold on tight, Gerik.” Wu braced himself against the ship’s rail.
A massive wave took hold of the ship and with a fierce speed smashed it into the Procession of Terns. Luckily when the ship was destroyed Wu managed to wedge himself between the railing and the walkway of the procession with Gerik still affixed to his back. Wu himself had a small plank of wood impaled through his left calf, Gerik got off mostly unscathed save various cuts and bruises. Wu had been knocked unconscious by one of the ship’s support beams.

Gerik looked over at the direction in which the massive wyrm flew. “Deirdre...”
</spoiler> [[File:GerikHoney.png|right]]

'''''New Beginnings'''''
<spoiler>It had been a week since the tidal wave hit Limsa Lominsa. People were still looking and grieving for loved ones. A few rays of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the first rays anyone had seen in days. Gerik had been holed up in Iawu’s home in Limsa Lominsa. It was a long week.

“You’ll be alright laying here Wu?” Gerik touched Wu’s leg gingerly. He had just rebandaged the wound.

“Aye, that pretty nurse comes by regularly, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” Wu says with a grin.

“Pretty nurse… ” Gerik thought for a moment. “I thought there was only a MALE midlander nurse that came by here? You never told me you…”

“You never asked.” Wu finished quickly. “But anyway, you had best go, I know you want to look for Deirdre.” He tossed Gerik a sack of gil. “S’what Deirdre ordered me to give to you.”

Gerik caught the sack, nearly dropping it in the process. “Oh, this is the gil..” He kneeled down and reached into the sack, pulling out whatever could fit in his hand and stuffed it down Wu’s pocket. “For breaking my fall.” Before leaving, he flashed Iawu a small grin.

---
Gerik pulled the mint green scarf over his chin as he began his journey outside of Limsa Lominsa taking only a moment to glance back at the battered city-state as the wind billowed.
</spoiler>

'''''New Beginnings II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik made his way to Carteneau astonished at the remnants of the battle. Already he'd stumbled upon several corpses, each in varying states of decay. Although he'd never admit it, he cried at the sight of each, thinking any of them could have been be his friend once. Weapons occasionally occasionally served as beacons that glittered in the sun. The highlander came across a bow made of a strange purple stone, it needed a restringing, but otherwise it seemed to work fine. he picked it up and slung it over his shoulder. A short prayer was uttered to ask for forgiveness to take this bow and to offer peace to whomever once held it. He spent the entire day looking for a body with long blue hair, one of these days he vowed to come back with flowers in honor of the dead. The area was a wasteland, he was the only one alive and walking in the area with only corpses to greet him.

He saw a midlander cadaver that he thought was his friend Blade, he was slumped over on his massive axe, and it looked like he was missing an arm as well as half his face. Resisting the urge to sob again, he reached into his bag to find something appropriate to offer as his condolences. Finding nothing of worth, Gerik settled on placing his lunch: two boiled eggs and a few Mizzenmast Biscuits, at the knees of the man. Then he made a ring of stones around him, to signify that someone did care about him. However, Gerik never found who he was looking for. Disheartened, he turned around and headed to Gridania.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Two:''''' ====

'''''Can you Even Lift?'''''
<spoiler>"So, moving on then, do you have any weaknesses?"

"Hmmm, well I don't like getting stung by bees, if that's what you mean." Gerik shifted uncomfortably in the ash chair. "Oh! Also I haven't really tasted honey that much previously."

His elezen interviewer grimaced, unsure what to do with his responses. "Uhh.. so do you have any previous experience with beekeeping?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I used to get stung by bees a lot, that's how I know I don't like it." Rolling up his left sleeve, he pointed to an area on his arm where a bee had stung him. "I think this was the most recent, a few years ago maybe."

She stared blankly. "I just... I don't think you're qualified. But we don't have any other applicants, so I guess you're hired? Wait, you can lift at least one of those hives right?"

"Easily, probably." He looked through the window behind her at the wooden crate-looking hive.

"Oh, would you mind demonstrating, just for proof?" She turned around to fetch him some protective gear but was confused to find out that he'd left the shack, probably because of his impatient expectancy to demonstrate himself competent at the job.

She heard yelling coming from outside and immediately knew what had happened. He had tried to pick up an already populated hive.</spoiler>

'''''Honey Straight from the Hive'''''
<spoiler>"Just draw the bowstring back like this, and hold it. Hold your breath and take in your surroundings. Keep the scene in your mind. You may let go now, slowly." Calloused fingers touched the highlander's shoulder. "You've done well today, keep practicing."

Gerik looked confusedly in reciprocation and released the string just as she had told him. "But I didn't shoot anything."

"Ah, but you did. You just don't know it yet." The elderly elezen woman patted his head of hair. "You young people are so impatient nowadays."

"Hm.. Well ok. Same time tomorrow then?" He handed her a satchel that jingled with the sound of glass.

Her eyes widened as she opened the satchel. "Oh goody, my favorite, honey straight from the hive." She smacked her lips, "And how creative, you left part of the honeycomb in the jar. Momma's got to buy some toast to enjoy this with!" She tapped her chin with her bony fingers. "Yes, same time tomorrow. By the way, where did you get your bow, it's very, how do you say, unique?"

"I actually found it when looking for a friend.. Up in Mor Dhona. I guess someone dropped it or something." He handed he the bow, figuring that she wanted to see it for a better inspection.

She delivered a loud slap. "A dead man's bow?! What were you thinking?! Her nostrils flared as she exhaled.

Gerik recoiled after her slap and rubbed his stinging bicep, "Oww...that hurt."

She knocked on the bow, "Such an odd material wouldn't you say? Definitely not wood, some sort of stone, perhaps? Still, at least it's a longbow, wouldn't want a man like you to be using a sissy miqo'te shortbow." She chuckled at her comment bemusedly. "Hell maybe I would have ripped this bow out of some poor sap's dying hands too!"
</spoiler>

'''''"BZZZZZ"'''''
<spoiler>“The... bee goes Bzzzzzz?” Gerik raises an eyebrow at Iawu. “Is that… is that me getting stung on the ass?”

Iawu let out a hearty laugh. “Aye, was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Gerik stifled a laugh by biting his tongue, trying to appear serious. “W-well how couldn’t I? It’s just there… in the open, you even used the crack in the book as my buttcrack, what kind of kids book is this anyway?”

Iawu flipped through the pages of another copy and answered rather pointedly. “It’s an alphabet book, B is for Bee, D’you think it’s any good?”

After looking at his illustrated ass from every angle one could possibly imagine with a book, Gerik shifted his gaze back at Iawu whilst cracking a grin. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that story about me and the Honey Yard. And I didn’t get stung on the ass, I got stung on the uh… my...” Gerik furrowed his brows, thinking. “This thingy!” He points to his tailbone.

Iawu shrugged. “Close enough!” He took a seat and began flipping through the book again. “What sound d’you reckon an imp makes?”

Gerik’s face shifted from pensive to dumbfounded over a period of tics. “How’s this?” Gerik tucked his hands under his armpits and flapped imaginary imp wings. “SKREE SKREE!”

Iawu continued staring, even after Gerik’s sound effects. “Wow… I gotta say, that was… that was awful.”

Gerik crossed his arms. “Well you do it then.”

Iawu set the book on the table adjacent to his seat and got up, briefly adjusting his glasses. He brings his hands up to shoulder height and begins flapping them furiously. “TIIII, TIIII!” He stopped suddenly when he caught a glimpse of an old woman staring at them through the window.

“I-I was going to offer you some popotoes… but I think I’ll give them to that harlot next door instead…” The old woman chewed her lower lip for a while before adjusting her bra and walking away.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Three:''''' ====
'''''Men's Underwear'''''
<spoiler>The rain left Gerik's hair like dew covered grass. He hadn't expected how enjoyable it would be to work at the honey yard. Despite a painful start, he quickly learned the practice of beekeeping, and in fact, he enjoyed it immeasurably. He ran his hand through his hair before starting to harvest the honey from a nearby hive. Thoughts of several years ago flooded his head, mostly of Dalamud. He had always wondered where all the familiar faces that he was so accustomed to seeing went; where was Kylin, where was Deirdre, where was Blade? He plucked a bee out of the honey, it had mistakenly flown in.

Gerik sealed off the jar and headed back inside. "I've got the last batch harvested, should I just deliver this stuff now?" He licked his finger after noticing some vestigial honey lingered.

A red haired wildwood woman lifted her eyes from the paper she had been reading. "Oh my.. You're so very fast, I'd even dare to say you're one of the best workers here." Sauntering over she removed her glasses.

Flashing her a grin and glancing behind himself quickly, he decided "I um.. I think I'll just deliver these."

The wildwood woman eyed him up and down before taking his hand and brought it up to her lips.

Gerik was a rigid plank of wood, he cringed at her advances, but she was his superior. Her tongue was a snake slithering over the finger he had licked prior. "Right um.. I think it's, it's.." Gerik shifted uncomfortably. "Look, the new Lalafell employee is stealing the honey!" As the eleven woman spun around to look outside the window, he took his delivery and ran.

---

"This seems like the place..?" A large Uldahn mansion that had seen better days stood in his path. He took the knocker in his hand, but the door opened before he could bring it down, a sophisticated looking highlander woman met his gaze and answered rather pointedly.

"Baelhyn residence, this is Etienne."

"Oh, ah I'm here for the delivery, yeah?"

"I see. Please bring it this way, and leave your shoes outside, they are filthy."

She led him past the foyer and into the kitchen. What looked like a mansion that would have employed a full retinue of retainers was empty and lonely.

"Please leave it here." Her gloved hand pointed to a countertop, as he approached she began to develop a displeased expression on her face. "When was the last shower you had? Your very smell is causing me to age."

Taken aback by her comment, Gerik paused for an inordinate amount of time before placing the jars on the counter. "Walking from Gridania to Ul'dah isn't a short walk, yeah?"

She seemed to ignore his last comment,"Why, I feel as though I should do the greater community a service and allow you a shower."
"Thanks? I think."

Gerik stood still, still unsure of what transpired. When he snapped back, he realized the woman was already down the hallway.

"You will have to use the master's bathroom, I am afraid the other bathrooms are in disrepair at this moment in time." Producing a plush towel from her right hand, she opened the door to the ornately decorated bathroom and let him inside. "Do not steal anything, I know exactly how many soaps and miscellaneous bath accessories we have." With that she turned on her heel and closed the door behind her, tawny brown hair trailing after.

Gerik removed off his shirt and pants quickly, however he decided to examine the bathroom a little closer, it had been a long while since he'd seen a posh bathroom like this, he eagerly opened all the soaps and sniffed them, and then looked though the drawers. In one he found what looked like a collection men's underwear. He looked behind him making sure Etienne wasn't behind him. Quickly he removed his own underwear and pulled up the one he found; grinning, he modeled for himself in the mirror.

"Ahem."
A well dressed man stood in the doorway.
"My, when the cat is away, the mice will certainly play."
</spoiler>

'''''Men's Underwear Part II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik turned around to catch a glimpse of the man who possessed the assertive baritone voice.
A clean-cut highlander man stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around his waist; sun-kissed skin glowing from the afternoon sun. “So I suppose this is what the menial labor of Eorzea has come to, trying on others’ clothes and doing as they please in another’s house.”

Gerik twiddled his thumbs. “Ah, sorry.. I didn’t mean to-.”
A smirk crossed the noble’s lips, and slowly his mouth distorted as if to hold back laughter, the dam that was his lips eventually gave way and a torrent of laughter followed. Slowly his laughter slackened, Gerik stood dumbfounded at the man throughout the process.

“I’m sorry, you just have no idea how dull these days are; a little excitement is good.” He wiped tears from his eyes. “Usually the only person I ever talk to is Etienne, and I’m quite afraid we’ve run out of things to talk about. Anyway, my name is Issachar, and you are?”

Gerik grinned, happy that the situation didn’t end up with him being arrested. “I’m Gerik, from the Honey Yard, but um.. nice place you got here.”

Issachar nodded and scanned the floor, not seeming to pay attention the latter part of what Gerik said. “So you were going to take a bath, I take it?”

Gerik positioned himself so that he could lean against the sink across the doorway. “Yeah, your assistant kind of dragged me up here.”
“Etienne will definitely do that. She might call me ‘Master’ or what have you, but she’s the real one that runs this estate. But ah, I suppose you don’t need to hear all this, I’ll wait my turn to use the facilities.” With that, he bowed and gently closed the door behind him. “You can keep that underwear by the way!” Issachar projected from the other side of the door.

---

Briefly into his bath, he heard a few knocks on the door. “Mister Gerik, Master Baelhyn wishes to have tea with you after his shower. He has also instructed for me to lay clothes out for you, they are located on the end table outside of this door.”
Smiling at the rhythmic intervals of Etienne’s heels going down the hallway he closed his eyes and soaked in the tub.
</spoiler>

'''''Tea is Served'''''
<spoiler>

Etienne dropped a silver tray laden with a teapot and two teacups abruptly on the table with a loud clank. "Your tea sir." She turned on her heels and walked back to the kitchen.

The two men stared at each other a moment wondering what that minor outburst meant. Issachar broke the silence first. "Forgive her, I assume she's most used to serving nobility. I'm assuming she's taking serving an ah.. how do I say this delicately." Issachar murmured to himself. "Ah, there it is, working class member. She's taking serving a working class member as an affront to her station, or that's what I'm presuming anyway."

Gerik stopped mixing honey into his tea briefly to look back at Issachar. "I can go, if it's making her feel bad, yeah?"

"No, no, you're fine. Hell, for all I know, we might be members of this working class soon, my parents' business ventures haven't been going very well with me at the wheel." Issachar shrugged nonchalantly and sipped at his tea. "I mean, if the state of this house isn't an indicator."

"It's not so bad, I can get you a job at the Honey Yard." Gerik smirked and leaned back in his chair and gestured to the jar of honey sitting on the glass tea table. "It's more difficult than it seems to harvest that."

Issachar feigned a scoff. "Such a lowly position has no place with these noble hands!" When his attempt at a joke failed and Gerik looked more confused than anything, the highborn highlander tried to revive the conversation again. "I uh.. that was my attempt at being humorous, my apologies for offending. Truth be told, I'd enjoy experiencing that."

"You will do no such thing." Etienne's encroaching footsteps alerted the two to her position, she carried a tray of fruit tarts. "You need to consider your parents' legacy, may they rest in peace, before you go off gallivanting with some man you just met a few hours ago, I will not be selling myself off in the streets like those Concern girls." She shot Gerik a deadly look before placing the tray onto the table.

"Well why not? I mean it's good work." Gerik replied, a bit more defensive than he would have liked.

"I am afraid I will not be dignifying that with a response." She crossed her arms and looked away.

Issachar laughed profusely before breaking into a coughing fit. "Look at you two, like an old married couple." He was the only one that chuckled at his own joke. "But I suppose you're right, I do need to attend to business." Issachar fiddled with his cravate. "Tell you what Gerik, why don't make an arrangement where you come by and visit weekly or so?"
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Four:''''' ====

'''''Becoming a Tree'''''
<spoiler>A dapper man stepped out behind an ornate changing screen. "Well, how is it?" He ran his hands over the satiny fabric covering his chest. "I'm not quite so fond of this collar."

"Mister Issachar, it's fine. I hired the best seamstresses at sunsilks, they even embroidered your family crest into it." A silver marmot laid at the cuff of his left sleeve.

"Oh, that's what that is." He ran his fingers over the embroidery. "This is supposed to represent my family's fur trade, yeah?"

Etienne rolled her eyes. "You've been starting to speak like that... like that uncouth delinquent ever since you allowed him to commandeer the guest bedroom."

The royal purple bowtie gleamed like an amethyst as Issachar straightened it. Peering through the mirror at Etienne he smirked. "Be nicer to him, won't you?"

She made a sigh and gave him an acidic look. "Shall I make arrangements for Lady Ardris to escort you? I really wish you didn't invite that crude lummox."

The placid expression on his face broke. He coughed. "You mean for that vile, insipid woman to escort me?"

"We have no choice, we're losing gil, do you want us to be out on the streets?! Putting yourself in a position to marry Lady Ardris is the best shot you have at bringing this family back to the wealth it once knew." With a hand on her hips she turned around biting her lip, she hated mandating things to him.

Looking wistfully at the bird that had just perched itself on the windowsill, Issachar answered, "I suppose you're right." A sigh left his lips. "Say, Etienne, what do you suppose of the idea of you taking over my parents' business. If I recall, you're quite proficient at numbers."

"Well, sure, I graduated top of my class at the old Mavanix Academy. But what do you mean to say?" She spun around on her heel to look at him accusingly. "You're just giving up?"

A dignified gait carried the man over to a sofa where he sat and placed a book onto his lap. "Oh come now, let's not sugarcoat things, we both know the time of my eternal sleep is sooner than later... I've put a lot of thought into this, and I think you should be the rightful leader to my parents' legacy, they always did love you like a daughter, just as I've always loved you as a sister." He tapped the book a few times to break the silence that fell after his declaration, "I've been reading this story, the protagonist dies and wants to be buried with a tree to celebrate the metaphorical union of the cycle of life and death. I'd like to think I could go that way too, so very poetic."

With tears welling in her eyes she delivered a hard backhand to his face. "No more of this talk." She took a tic to compose herself and to wipe the tears from her face. "I'll need to prepare Gerik for this society event should you really wish for him to attend with you."

Issachar nodded, holding the side of his face. "... please do."

---

Several rhythmic knocks alerted Gerik to a prescence on the other side of the bathroom door. He put down the rubber chocobo he had been playing with in the bathtub. "Eh? That you Etienne?"

A muffled reply came from the other side of the door. "I so wish that you would stop speaking in that agrarian elocution you love so dearly. When you come out of there I have a few lessons for you."

"What kind of lessons? Are they going to be painful again?" Gerik looked at the burn mark he had on his palm from grabbing an deceptively hot pan.

"Well my goodness, I had no idea I was living with a little girl, and who grabs a cast iron pan without a potholder anyway?!" She struck the door with her hand.

He could hear her tapping her heels to the floor, she was growing impatient. "Alright, alright, I'm coming." He set the rubber chocobo atop the faucet and drained the water from the bathtub.</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Five:''''' ====

'''''Issachar'''''
<spoiler>Issachar collapsed one balmy day in Ul'dah. Everything seemed pleasant enough, his favorite tree in the garden had just grown fruit. Etienne was out conducting business on his behalf, and Gerik was probably out with his Roegadyn friend. It was a shame he'd never gotten to meet this Burgenheim fellow, Gerik told him all about the Roegadyn's enthusiasm for books. Perhaps they could have traded stories. He would concede that he felt jealous of Gerik spending so much time with the man, But it was for the best, they all knew this day would come. Issachar drew up his will just the other week, he had every faith that Etienne would revive his parent's namesake; and Gerik, well, he wanted him to be happy. A percentage was to be skimmed off the top of their profits and sent directly to Gerik, weekly, Etienne was to do this herself; as for the Baelhyn Manor, they were to each own half the rights to the property. it would take a lot of gil to repair things that had fallen to a state of disrepair.

He coughed.

Issachar didn't want to burden them with his inconvenience, it was good that neither of them were home, they could enjoy their time out to the fullest. He stared at the ceiling cursing his ailment, imagining Gerik's skin against his own, his stubble like a cat's tongue running down his chest. And then that first day they had met. He reminisced over the warm honeyed toast they had shared that this morning, honey could certainly only be described as liquid gold. Or even earlier that morning when he spent a good deal of time just happy to be cuddling with the man, his hands intimately embraced around Gerik's chest, he was always so warm, and he loved when Gerik's musk wafted into his nose. Gerik's natural musk was like an open field; it made think him of cobblestones and maybe ash trees, somewhere open and free. Then his vision began to fade, so he closed his eyes. His hearing dulled, so he stopped listening. His breath began to weaken, so he stopped breathing.</spoiler>

'''''Cake'''''
<spoiler>"MY CAKE! WHERE IS IT?!" Etienne tore through the manor like a madwoman. Loud footsteps encroached quickly toward a sleeping Gerik. "DID YOU EAT IT?! DID YOU?!"

He rubbed his eyes lazily and propped himself up on one arm over the sofa. "Ugh.. My brain is telling me you're being way too loud for my hangover right now."

"You did eat it didn't you?! There isn't anything in this house that hasn't been in your mouth at least once!" Her eyes grew large with rancor. "You even ate some of my eye cream! And don't act like I didn't notice, I saw your fingerprints on the patina on the side and there was about a spoonful missing!"

"Hey! It looked like whipped cream, and it was in such a nice little jar!" He sat up, already feeling tense from their constant conflicts ever since he moved in, though lately it had gotten worse.

"Gods, you are one of the most disgusting beings that ever inhabited Hydaelyn! I saved up MOONS for that cake! Not to mention how long it took to get onto the waiting list to even buy it! The Bismarck only makes five of those a year!" Each of her words were punctuated by the stomping sound of her custom made heels. "Well?! Did you eat all of it?!"

"I uh... Nooooo?" Knowing she was right, he scanned the room for the tray it had come in.

"I should have known. You only have about FIVE stomachs in that body of yours." She sighed and pivoted around, "Well, I have a board meeting to attend, but I expect reparations when I return! And clean your room, it looks like the asshole of the Mineral Concern exploded in there!"

A few quick motions of her hands and her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows and her business attire was smoothed over.

As soon as he knew she left the foyer, he trudged over to the kitchen and pulled a little box out of the pantry. Quickly thumbing through the slips of paper, he began to look for a recipe.
</spoiler>

'''''Cake Part II'''''
<spoiler>
Etienne exhaustingly pushed the stained glass door open, she kicked off her heels and continued to walk over to her room. Halfway there she caught a whiff of something heavenly coming from the kitchen. She peeked around the corner and caught sight of Gerik trying to frost what looked like a piece of marmot steak.

His tongue stuck out like an upturned leaf as he paddled icing on with a spoon. Not noticing her peeking in the doorway, he proceeded to apply what looked like wording to the cake. He thought to himself about what happened earlier that day, he had been an ass. He had just been so angry lately. Angry at Etienne, angry at Issachar, but mostly angry at himself. He tried to legibly pipe out "I'm Sorry" on the cake, and mostly achieved legibility. Gerik sighed deeply and looked over at his cake, staring at it a moment before slowly sliding the platter that held the cake to the edge of the counter and dumping it nonchalantly in the trash where all his previous cakes had landed. Leaning against the counter with his back facing Etienne. With a somber look at the trash, Gerik slid to the floor,tucking his knees into his chest.

"You don't need to waste food, you know." Etienne cracked a grin at him. Her hazel eyes looked over the somber looking highlander, he hadn't responded to her remark. "Look, I'm sorry, I've been quite tough on you ever since Issachar took a fancy to you... Well, ever since you first visited really." She tucked a stray piece of tawny hair behind her ear. "It's been tough ever since Mister Baelhyn left, I know."

His eyes had begun to grow glassy. Knowing her stoic analytical nature, he appreciated that she was even trying to make a joke of sorts, but the truth was that he had been incredibly unhappy ever since the death of his lover, Issachar. He nodded through her attempted dialogue with him, but he simply couldn't concentrate.

She sighed and slid onto the the floor next to Gerik, it was covered in flour, but she was beyond the point of caring about her clothes. "You know.. I ordered the cake for the both of us, I wanted us to enjoy it during this tough time. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you." She placed her palm flat on the floor and shifted some flour around.

Without warning, Gerik wrapped his arms around her in an embrace. He buried his tear-streaked face into her shoulder. "N-no, I'm sorry. I just.. I just-"

"I know, I know, I miss him too." She patted him uncomfortably, bodily contact was a pet peeve of hers. Still, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "I think I know something that we can do that would make Issachar happy, I'll be right back." Moments later she returned holding a seed, "I um.. I remember him saying that he wanted to have a tree planted inside his grave. Mind you I don't know what kind of tree this is, but perhaps this will do." Delicately she opened the mans hands and places the seed between his palms. She gave him a half smile before taking a few steps backward. "See to it that you tell that new maid of ours that this mess get attended to."</spoiler>

==== '''''Current''''' ====
(COMING SOON)

== '''''Rumors''''' ==

'''''Common Rumors'''''

*“Aye, that’s the guy I saw at the Bismark, ate nearly 3 plates o’ raw oysters ‘afore passing out in a room at the Mizzenmast.” -Astonished Highlander

*“You remember that one man who came by and chatted me up last week right? Babette told me over linkshell that she just saw him snogging a Roegadyn in the Market Wards, and not a female one! …No, you most certainly cannot watch them Damali!” – Scorned Midlander

*“With a gilded tongue like that, I’m not surprised he’s not got a higher position in society. Don’t even get me started on that nice lookin’ body he’s got.” – Lascivious Roegadyn

*"I heard that guy has a terrible work ethic, sometimes doesn't show up for days! But damn if I can't say no to that smile." - Conflicted Elezen

*"You could probably sell a bridge to that guy, he'll believe whatever you tell him...I guess all looks, no brains? ...Sure was good in bed though." - Disappointed Lalafell

'''''Intermittent Rumors:'''''

*“I heard he grew up at some orphanage in Gridania, why’d ya think his parents would give him up, oooh, maybe he has mental issues, or maybe the moogles brought him to Gridania, or maybe…” – Presumptuous Lalafell

*“The Adventurer’s Guild doesn’t seem to like to hand him leves, supposedly he turns down most of them. Sounds like pure slothfulness to me, what happened to the quality of our adventurers? Back in my day, adventurers weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.” – Elderly Elezen

*"I heard he came into some gil recently, first that rich Mavanix boy, and then that Baelhyn heir.. I bet he's a no-good golddigger!" - Scandalous Elezen

'''''Rare Rumors:''''' 

*“The other week I caught him hanging out with an Ixal near Murmur Rills, looked pretty comfortable with em’. Guess when it comes to friends he don’t discriminate even between beastmen, could probably use that as some damn good blackmail though.” – Scheming Roegadyn

*“You know about those rich aristocrats in Ul’dah right? Apparently that bloke might’ve had some intimate relations with one of them, or one of their sons; whichever, it don’t matter much, anyway it ended sourly. Rarely ventures into Ul’dah now, or at least that’s what I noticed, and I would know! I sell the airship tickets from Gridania!” – Gossipy Elezen

*“Heard his parents might still be alive despite them being off the grid for years. Don’t think he’s interested in trying to locate them though, I think they used to use him just for their benefit and dumped him in Gridania when it got rough.” – Softspoken Midlander

'''''Player Character Rumors (Feel free to add your own!):'''''

* "He is a loyal sort, with a bigger heart than his chest can contain. If you are inquiring after him with intention to harm, I will string you up and flay the flesh from your bones." -[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]

* "I never cared about anyone like I did him. But alas, Nymeia had other plans." -[[Kylin Felstar]]

* "Who? Oh- Yea, he's tall. And.. large? No, really, I've not met him but twice or so.. I can't tell you much about him. If you see him though, tell him I didn't mean to hit him aye?" -[[Aysun Demiir]]

== '''''Affiliations''''' ==

*'''''[[Burgenheim Rousa]]:''''' Gerik's new confidant and best friend, he visited the Corvus Cinis Headquarters nearly every day while living in Ul'dah to visit him. He loves the stories the Roegadyn tells him. Gerik is thankful for the Roegadyn's presence, as Burgenheim was the only friend he had in Ul'dah at the time.

*'''''[[Kerr V'yen]]:''''' A male miqote he met when assisting in the rehabilitation of Gridania. They have since lost contact, but being that Kerr was the first male miqo'te Gerik has met, Kerr made quite an impression.

*'''''[[Kylin Felstar]]:''''' Quite possibly one of the most unexpected friends he's ever had. Kylin didn't turn out to be what Gerik expected a rich entitled heir to be. They had an intense short-lived relationship over a few months; Gerik now believes Kylin is dead due to 5 years of no contact.

*'''''[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]:''''' Deirdre has grown to be a matriarchal figure for Gerik. Despite him not knowing why she often goes out of her way to protect him, he enjoys her company. She's also served as Gerik's mentor of sorts in the art of the dagger. Recently relations between them got more awkward because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years and believes her dead.

*'''''[[Blade Belisaire]]:''''' Blade has been a sort of recurring acquaintance for Gerik; they first met when Gerik tried to pick him up in a bar. He doesn't know much about the man, except that he's been acting a bit.. off, as of lately. He hasn't seen him in 5 years and believes him dead.

*'''''[[Eva Ianeira]]:''''' Gerik finds Eva a very pleasant acquaintance. He doesn't know her that well, however she gave him medical attention after his shoulder had been stabbed and he feels indebted to her to a degree. He'd like to get to know the even-tempered duskwight better. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Ariel Madaellyn]]:'''''At their first meeting, Gerik was very much intimidated by Ariel, she holds such an authoritative aura about her.  However he's begun to let his guard down around her and has decided that she's genuinely a nice person. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Selene Artemis]]:''''' He knows Selene as Blade's girlfriend. The two haven't really gotten to know each other much, but he feels awkward about their relationship because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Yssen Van]]:''''' Very few words have been exchanged between Yssen and Gerik. Previously finding Yssen hypocritical on the topic of his sister and distancing himself between Yssen, he's decided to let the past be the past. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

== '''''Fan Art''''' ==

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the art done of Gerik, and I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to draw him!

<spoiler>

[[File:CJGerik2.jpg]]

[[File:GerikMtotoresize.jpeg]]

[[File:GerikDeirdre.jpeg]]

[[File:CJGerik.jpg]]

[[File:Gerik by michialmasy-d67dx5n.png]]

[[File:NNFCD.jpg]]

[[File:GerikPants.png]]

[[File:Gerikcupcake.png]]

</spoiler>

== '''''Annotations''''' ==

'''''The Sketchbook:''''' Since he was young, Gerik has always kept a sketchbook handy, primarily because of his affinity to drawing.  He's gone through quite a lot over the years (13 total) and keeps them in his lodging with the exception of the one being used, which is always kept on his person.  Many of his sketches are of the creatures that live in Eorzea, as well as men he finds attractive.  He's quite private about the contents of his sketchbook, save for those people he trusts the most.  One of the caretakers at the Acorn Orchard got him his first sketchbook, and since then he's been attached to the idea.

*'''''Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to talk to me about planning an RP or something. Either sending me a /tell in game or a PM on the RPC will work. I'm down for most everything, plus Gerik needs more friends!'''''

If you wanted more stuff to read about Gerik, you could check out these pages on TvTropes: [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GentleGiant Gentle Giant], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DumbMuscle Dumb Muscle], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/MenCantKeepHouse Men Can't Keep House], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TheSlacker The Slacker], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GymBunny Gym Bunny], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/StraightGay Straight Gay].

'''''Actor who would Portray Gerik''''': [http://www.thepictureswarehouse.com/d/72483-1/Marco+Dapper+picture+6.jpg Marco Dapper]

'''''Theme Song''''': [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-gXQqtjBjU Lazy Daydream]

Gerik Aston

2013-06-09T16:56:06Z

Gerik: /* Fan Art */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Gerik Brynn Aston
| image = GerikAVARef.png
| imagewidth = 300
| caption =
| title = The Zephyr
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = Menphina, the Lover
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 26 (Post Dalamud)
| stat_3 = Nameday
| stat_3_value = 26th Sun of the 6th Astral Moon
| stat_4 = Orientation
| stat_4_value = Homosexual
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Beekeeper
}}

== '''''General''''' ==

''Gerik is a laid-back, charismatic highlander and can usually be seen with a smile on his face. He tries hard to avoid as much responsibility as possible (save for those causes he deems worth fighting for), not because he’s lazy, per se, he just wants to feel like he has the freedom to do what he wants, when he wants. Feeling his bare feet in the grass or the cool breeze that blows through the Twelveswood are some of his greatest pleasures.''

== '''''Appearance''''' ==

[[File:GerikRedClothes400.png|right|]]

'''''Height:'''''

:6 fulms, 6 ilms - he is a bit taller than most Highlanders. 

'''''Weight:'''''

:243 ponz – Gerik is a bit bulky in terms of muscle. He attributes his physique to good genes as he doesn't really do anything consciously to retain or build muscle. 

'''''Body:'''''

:Gerik is well-built and defined having somewhat of a gymnast's build. Having worked for a short time at the Greatloam Growery in [[Gridania]] assisted in the development of muscle as well as his normal ability to retain his physique has ensured that Gerik is somewhat of a prime specimen of desire for the opposite sex.. or in his case, the same sex. He thinks his best attributes are probably his chest and arms. 

'''''Complexion:'''''

:Tanned, bronzed skin covers Gerik's body. He used to have a few scars, but since he's been cohabiting with Deirdre she's returned his skin to its original condition. He has a symmetrical tattoo on his face, a simple design comprised of six white lines. 

'''''Hair:'''''

:Gerik normally crops his hair very close to the scalp. He's considered growing it out however he generally doesn't like when his hair grows long enough to touch his ears. If he let it grow out, its natural color would be one of a darker burgundy or maroon. A moderate amount of stubble grows on his jawline, normally Gerik doesn't bother to trim it everyday, opting to trim it once every three days or so. Starting at his belly button, Gerik has a light dusting of hair that leads down to his genital region, sometimes he shaves it off, other times not. 

'''''Fashion:'''''

:Shirtless is the way to go for Gerik. He finds that it provides the most freedom in terms of everyday activities, and he also likes to feel the breeze around him. However in situations where a shirt of some sort is necessary, he'll tend to use some sort of lightweight, breathable fabric. He also has a set of clothing for more formal events, he thinks that the wedge cap from the set makes him looks less intimidating. In downtime alone, Gerik can be seen in normally just his underwear, or a set of pants and shoes. 

== '''''Personality''''' ==

Due to Gerik's odd upbringing, he still remains a child at heart. More than anything he wants to be liked and to have people he can trust and rely on. He's very social and trusts people very easily due to this, however at the same time he's also afraid to let people get too close for the fear of others hurting him. Others might perceive him as being gullible and a bit slow and they'd probably be right. He never had a 'good' education, so in that regard he's not quite so bright. During his time spent at Gridania he's learned a little about how to cultivate plants, which plants have medicinal properties to them, and which plants are safe to eat, in addition to a bunch of other assorted knowledge about plants and creatures within the forest. Many would describe Gerik as 'lucky', sometimes things happen to him with little to no effort on his part, or he gets something accomplished in a very unorthodox manner.

Despite him not being a 'Forestborn,' he thinks he's earned the trust of the local Gridanians enough for them to treat him as one. He's spent a lot of his time in the Twelveswood, even going as far as to camp in the canopies of the trees at night. When on these extended camping trips he usually spends most of his time napping, or observing the happenings within the forest, his employers are generally not pleased as he may not come in to work for a few days or more. His favorite haunt is the White Willow near Camp Emerald Moss.

'''''Family''''': 
Gerik's mother and father were trading merchants, often travelling between every city-state. His surname, Aston, comes from his mother's maiden name and its midlander origins come from the words "East", and "tun", or the settlement to the east of a main village near the ash trees. Eirika, Gerik's mother, was daughter to a former Ala Mhigan noble house. His father, Ganun, was a commoner, and as such, Eirika was never quite satisfied being married to him. Their son, Gerik is 3/4 Highlander and 1/4 Midlander (from his mother's side).

'''''Personality Traits:'''''

*Charismatic

*Hedonistic

*Absent-Minded

*Clumsy

*Slothful

*Athletic

*Trusting

*Jovial

*Messy

*Warm

*Slow-Witted

*Lucky

[[File:GerikAVA.png|right]]

'''''Talents:'''''

*Socialization

*Wilderness Survival

*Singing (Singing voice is based off John Martin, please ignore the electronic background music [http://youtu.be/RLaSjeCFnlE] [http://youtu.be/-yg3dLEDWqs] [http://youtu.be/-bt94yKsKHQ])

*Sketching 

*Tracking/Hunting 

*Stealth 

 

'''''Likes:''''' 

*The Twelveswood

*Riding Airships

*Freedom

*Gossip

*Fireworks 

'''''Favorite Food:''''' 

*Raw Oyster

'''''Favorite Color:''''' 

*A bit undecided, definitely either blue or green though.

'''''Favorite Creature:'''''

*Apkallus

 

'''''Dislikes:''''' 

*Snooty condescending people

*The Ul’dahan “gil makes the world go round” mentality

*People who disrespect the Twelveswood

*Being used

*Books and Reading

 

'''''Fears:''''' 

*Feeling obligated to a lot of responsibility

*Becoming incapacitated, or otherwise less mobile 

*Losing peoples' favor 

 

----

=== '''''Demeanor:''''' ===

Gerik tends to take a flippant approach to the world, that is, everything but a few select things are not taken quite as seriously as they should be, he also comes off as an optimist. Some of his favorite pasttimes are conversing and meeting new people. His charismatic and charming nature make acquiring friends a simple task, however he’s not one to sugarcoat things, instead preferring to be blunt and openly disagree should a point he feels is wrong manifest. In fact, due to his blunt nature, sometimes inappropriate comments may be blurted out. Despite this, Gerik tries hard to be as good-natured and kindhearted as possible.

[[File:GerikLayDown2.png|right]]
 

'''''Quirks:''''' 

*Has a very large appetite, can usually be seen snacking if there is nothing more pressing to attend to, nobody really knows how he stays in shape, not even Gerik.

*Gerik is quite sloppy; he strategically packs his bag every morning, his strategy for packing is to take a bunch of stuff strewn on the floor of his room and haphazardly dump it into his bag.

*Finds Roegadyn men absolutely endearing, he entertains the idea of a cuddly Roegadyn, and likes it, '''a lot'''.

 

----

== '''''History:''''' ==

'''''Childhood''''' 

:Gerik hails from Ala Mhigo. His parents worked as traveling merchants selling and trading wares from one city-state to another. His mother sang to crowds in an effort to increase sales and forced Gerik to do the same once he was old enough.  During the time of the Garlean invasion, Gerik and his parents were in Gridania. Due to Gerik being a child at the time, they decided it would be safer for them to travel since he would be a burden and abandoned him in Gridania. There, he was raised in the Acorn Orchard with other Gridanian children. During his time growing up, he spent a lot of time in the forest basking in its beauty and enjoying the company of the creatures that are native to the Twelveswood. 

'''''Adolescency''''' 

:At the age of adolescency, Gerik decided he should find something meaningful to do with his life and repay the debt he felt he owed to Gridania, and since he's had a sizeable amount of prior experience with a bow (hunting) as well as the practice of tracking prey and remaining unseen; thus he began training more seriously in the art of archery with aspirations to become a member of the God's Quiver (he also dabbled a bit in the art of lances thinking he might be able to join the Wood Wailers, as well as conjury at the Stillglade Fane, however he dismissed these ideas once he realized he couldn't possibly attempt to join all three factions).  

'''''Adulthood''''' 

:However it was not to be; he was not accepted into the God's Quiver on reasons that are still unknown to him, instead they referred him to someone referred to as the "Godsbow." After much listening to Jehantel's songs and using them as a basis for study, he's slowly been increasing his repertoire of songs. Still, he prefers to not perform in public as he's a bit self-conscious. Gerik is currently looking into alternative ways to assist Gridania's cause due to his inability to assist the God's Quiver.  His previous employment history was that of a simple lumberjack for the Botanist's Guild in Gridania. Prior to Dalamud, he found employment with the Shimmersong mercenaries, their headquarters residing in Owl's Nest; he finds the region of Coerthas breathtaking. Presently, he volunteers at the Honey Yard and lives in Ul'dah.
 
----

'''Dreadful Cacaphony''' - 0 
<spoiler>"Ugh." A young highlander woman sighed. "Ganun it it's crying again honestly how can one get her beauty rest with that dreadful cacaphony going on." She rolled over and slapped the highlander male lying adjacent to her. "Wake up and deal with it!" Ganun grunted in defeat and rolled out of bed. He exasperatingly sighed "Yes dear." Ganun coddled the newborn all the while sporting his trademark scowl; eventually the child eased up and fell asleep. He walked back to bed and fell asleep. Morning came and he woke up to his wife Eirika coddling the newborn almost maternally, a trait he thought she never possessed; however his thought was interrupted when she screeched. "You know my womanhood will never be the same because of you the only good thing you've brought me is a larger set of breasts!" She gazed down at her ample cleavage admiring herself. She turned to face Ganun who just awoke. "Ganun darling shouldn't we name this abomination?" She gestured almost disgustingly at the infant. "Yes yes I suppose we should" Ganun replied. After a bell of deliberation, Eirika had a thought. "Ganun why not just combine our names and be done with this nonsense, all this thinking will give me wrinkles; so how does 'Gerik' sound? I think it it's just marvelous, of course it contains more of my name seeing as I'm the important one." She turned around and began to admire her cleavage again. "Yes, I suppose Gerik it is then." He smiled slightly at the newborn, quite possibly the first smile he had in years.</spoiler>

'''Fish & Desperation''' - 4 
<spoiler>"What is that dreadful smell; it smells like fish and desperation!" Eirika held her nose shut with her index finger and thumb. Ganun sighed and said slowly. "Dear we are in Limsa Lominsa trying to sell wares... right now we are in the fish market. Fish. Market." Eirika brushed her hair out of her face and stuck her nose up. "Ganun I do believe it is your turn to supervise Derrick." He sighed. "It's Gerik dear, and yes bring him to me." Ganun replied scowling at his wife. "Yeah, whatever." Eirika shrugged as she was applying more lipstick. "Zarik get over here this iiiinstant!" However the young child did not appear. Eirika cleared her throat and shrieked "Merik!" "Do you mean to tell me you lost our child?" Ganun inquired with the same scowl that was ever present on his face. She replied coolly, "frankly Ganun, I can't be held responsible, for you should have been paying more attention to him. What kind of father are you anyway?!" She adjusted her skirt in such a manner so that it would reveal more of her upper thigh. "But fine, have it your way, I'll go search for the little cretin." She discovered the toddler playing with two fish that probably fell off a cart during transport; two merchant-looking men were next to him offering him various other seafood to play with. "Hi bitch!" the young Gerik exclaimed happily. "You just called me what?!" Eirika's face turned red with anger. "tha-tha's what my new f'rends said your name was e'rlier." He gestured to the two merchants. The merchants stood up visibly embarrassed, we didn't mean it miss we apologi-.” Just then Eirika delivered a quick backhand to both of the merchants faces. She picked up young Gerik before he could crawl off anywhere else and stormed off. She looked down at the toddler and noticed he was holding a rothlyt oyster, she slapped it out of his hands. "No we do not touch anything that looks like a vagin-!" Ganun interrupted her. "Eirika I've prepared our stall. Are you ready?" "Really Ganun, do you have to ask, I was born ready." She flashes an almost sinister grin and brushes some hair out of her face. "But before we begin..." She fashioned a rope attached to the stall as a leash for the toddler and proceeded to arrange her clothes so that they were more revealing. When she was ready she began to sing. </spoiler>

'''Sweet Child''' - 7 
<spoiler>"C'mmere Gerik! Eirika said sternly. "Ok mommy!" Gerik jumped off a stool and ran to her eagerly. "Yes, such a sweet child... now drink this!" Eirika handed him a cup with a strange smelling liquid inside. Gerik looked up at her with a suspicious expression but drank from the clay cup anyway. Moments later, everything seemed to blur together and he passed out on the floor. Eirika turned around "Ganun did you get the man I asked for?" She pulled her hair into an updo. "Yes dear, I did." Ganun opened the door to let a highlander man into their inn room in gridania. "There's your payment... now go! Work! We've discussed the design already." Eirika gestured at Ganun to pay the man to which he obliged. The man pulled out tattooing supplies which he held in a bag and began tattooing the young highlander with the same tattoo his mother had on her face, its significance was unclear; however the highlander tattooist accepted tattooing as part of a highlander tradition and simply did his job and didn't ask questions. When he finished he simply bowed and took his leave. "Now we can find him later darling... I do hope that makes you feel better about this." She twisted a lock of hair around her finger. "Now let's go" Ganun nodded and replied sullenly. "Our wares are packed and are outside already." He looked down at the ground. "Oh that's simply wonderful, now carry this!" He grunted as she tossed a bag of her clothes into his arms. The two highlanders exited the gridanian inn room and left to embark on their mercantile journey to Ul'dah.</spoiler>

'''Something Naughty''' - 10 
<spoiler>Holding a roll of paper in one hand and a stick of charcoal held between his teeth, Gerik began to climb a young tree in the Twelveswood. The cool breeze felt good against his skin. It had been three years since his parents disappeared. He touched the tattoo on his face almost nostalgicly; reflecting for a moment, but just a moment because it got interrupted by him expelling the charcoal from his mouth. "What to draw today?" he thought to himself. Thoughts ran through his head of possible ideas, but he eventually settled on a fluffy marmot on the grass below. "Guess it's another marmot today." Slowly he used the charcoal to render his masterpiece. When he was done, he climbed back down and headed back to the acorn orchard. "Oh my isn't this lovely it's an uh. imperial warship, or maybe it's an uh a pair of woman's bloomers..." The orphanage worker strained to see what exactly it was that Gerik drew. She turned the paper horizontally and vertically but could make no sense of what it was. "Is that something naughty?" She pointed to a blunt looking appendage attached to an unrecognizable blob. "No ma'am, that's a tail, it's a marmot." He gave her a charcoal-covered toothy smile; in return she forced one herself and replied "Why don't you take this?" The elezen woman reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook she had been using to keep her grocery list in. "You can keep your drawings in it." Gerik reached for it excitedly. "Boy! Thanks lady!" Another charcoal-covered grin was flashed at her. She sighed and hung her head. "I've told you six times already my name is Elimine." When she raised her head again, he was already halfway to the Blue Badger Gate.</spoiler>

'''Azeyma's Candle''' - 15 
<spoiler>"The festival is here!" A teenaged roegadyn gestured happily and pointed to a large fireworks machine. A group of similarly aged orphans from the acorn orchard gathered around him. Gerik looked up in wonder at the aerial fireworks, they looked like jewels bursting into the sky. "Aderyn, wait up!" The teenaged roegadyn turned around and beckoned for Gerik to join the group. When he caught up, Aderyn put his hand around Gerik's shoulder and they proceeded to walk toward the festival grounds. The motley group of orphans pooled all the gil they could scrounge up with and bought an assortment of fireworks: some red, some yellow, and some blue. Exclamations of joy could be heard from the group. Over the course of four hours, they used up all their fireworks and decided to use the big fireworks machine set in place for the festival instead. "Wanna climb up on the oak atrium for a better view?" Gerik tugged on Aderyn's sleeve. "Sure, you have the best ideas Gerik!" The two climbed onto the roof sat together and smiled in wonder at how much closer the fireworks were. An Azeyma's candle bursted in front of the pair, exploding in a myriad of colors. Just then, Gerik's hand accidentally landed on Aderyn's while readjusting himself out of a cross-legged position. "S-sorry" Gerik was about to pull his hand off Aderyn's, but Aderyn slowly pulled his hand out from under and placed it atop Gerik's. The two made eye contact for a while and Gerik slowly went in for a kiss. Noticing gerik's advance, Aderyn also slowly moved toward the highlander. It lasted but for a few seconds, then the two sat speechless on the roof of the Oak Atrium. Gerik smiled slightly all the while. Aderyn was the first to speak "Y-y'know I'm not like that, I like girls." Gerik frowned and looked off to the side, remaining silent. Aderyn continued "I'm gonna marry a nice elezen girl one day a-and we're gonna have lots of kids." He stood up and took a look another look at Gerik before climbing down the roof. Gerik pulled his knees up to his chest wrapped his arms around them and let out a deep sigh. </spoiler>

'''Logs''' - 17 
<spoiler>“So I just swing at it like that?” Gerik grinned at the Roegadyn he knew as Opyltyl. Opyltyl looked back at him and sighed. “Aye, don’t forget to ask for the elementals’ forgiveness... and do you always have to stick your tongue out when you swing?” Gerik shrugged and swung his hatchet at the tree again. He liked the way the doublet vest he bought looked on him. Of course, he decided he needed to look good for his first day at the Greatloam Growery which is why he spent most of his gil on it, plus it showed off his muscular arms, Gerik liked his arms. Opyltyl left soon after to manage the Growery. A loud yawn left his lips a few hours later and a warm, inviting-looking patch of grass caught his eye. Looking down at his meager stack of logs, he sighed and dropped his hatchet on the ground and started walking over and stretching for a nap. </spoiler>

== '''''Pre-Dalamud Summary''''' ==
Gerik's story starts with a nap. The clearing he had been laying in was warm, breezy, and most importantly, he found his favorite type of moss to lay on, for it was more spongy than the other varieties that lived on the forest floor. His snores could probably be heard from quite a while away. His boss at the Greatloam Growery had been checking up on Gerik more frequently these days since he'd often discovered that throughout the workday Gerik would wander off somewhere and take a nap. Stumbling upon Gerik in the clearing, he pulled out a flyer and a bit of plant based adhesive from his pocket and walked over to the napping Highlander. He fixed the flyer onto Gerik's forehead with the adhesive and walked away shaking his head.

Three bells or so later, Gerik awoke to find a piece of parchment stuck to his forehead, he tried to pull it off, but only succeeded in ripping the portion not directly attached to the glue off. "Shimmersong - Mercenary Company", the flyer read, curious to see what the company was about, he went to Owl's Nest and it was there that he first met Ariel Madaellyn and Yssen Van. After a lengthy interview process that intimidated Gerik to no end, he was accepted. His first mission as a mercenary was with House Mavanix; during the mission a fight broke out, Gerik primarily served as a utility role protecting the young Miyuki Tatsugawa and after the battle was when he first met Kylin Mavanix, albeit unofficially. A week or so later, another Mavanix mission came in. This time a demon named Juravis threatened the group and it needed to be slain. During this mission he met Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn and took a romantic interest in him almost immediately, being one of the few gay Roegadyns he's ever met.

Shortly after this mission, Gerik had a run in with Ysa Van, Yssen's mentally unstable sister. A fight was avoided however, and Gerik stayed in the Corvus Cinis HQ that night with Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn. Unfortunately, Gerik has never seen Sydalyr again after that and figured that Syd was just uninterested in him. Shimmersong's ranks began to bolster; Kylin Mavanix, Seohyun Iyasu and Derrick Rickkon were recruited into Shimmersong. Through Seohyun, he was introduced to Deirdre Ta'ea albeit briefly in her apartment in Limsa Lominsa. Gerik and Kylin never officially met for a while. During their first meeting Kylin and he were fast friends and this is when Gerik made a deal with Kylin to show Kylin his sketchbook in exchange for swimming lessons.

The Aleport beach was where they spent their time swimming. Gerik felt a chemistry between the two but didn't act on it, afraid of being rejected again like with Sydalyr. Gerik ran into Deirdre on the beach one day, She asked Gerik to hold her underwater, he initally said no, but then complied no matter how confused he was.

Ysa attacked Gerik again shortly thereafter in Limsa Lominsa and wanted to know about Deirdre. Gerik hesitated to give her information initially however eventually yielded when she stabbed and dislocated his shoulder. Gerik called for Kylin over the Crystalline pearl and was met with the voice of a compassionate duskwight woman. Eva stitched his wound and took care of the dislocation, since then he's felt a certain debt to her. Soon thereafter, Deirdre and Gerik went into hiding from Ysa on the cliffs of La Noscea under Oschon's Torch, there she began training him in combat, specifically, with the knife.

After Deirdre attacked Gerik out of mental instability, Kylin took Gerik to his sister Elza's cabin in Gridania where they lived for a while. Gerik and Kylin also began a relationship in this time, but it was not to last.

During the Felstar Gala chaos ensued, aether erupted from the very ground beneath the attendees. Kylin was one of the ones that got sucked down into its abyss. Gerik and Deirdre regrouped at Elza's cabin mourning the losses of Kylin and Shurin, neither of them left the cabin or spoke for several days. Deirdre and Gerik fled for the Isles of Umbra when monsters started attacking the city-states because of Dalamud's proximity. It is there they spend their last days before the fall of Dalamud.

== '''''FFXIV: A Realm Reborn''''' ==
----
==== '''''Year One:''''' ====
'''''Lamb Sausage Is Discovered:''''' <spoiler>Gerik strained his head to look back at the shore they were only twenty or thirty fulms out, but it felt like forever since they departed the Limsa docks. His rope restraints becoming more uncomfortable, but he tried to relax and enjoy the ride. He didn’t mind this positon, being tied face-down to the back of a Roegadyn; the Roegadyn’s back was comfortably warm.

The Captain of the boat “Ram’s Head” was Iawu, or “Wu” for short; a burly Hellsguard Roegadyn. “You doing all right back there? Don’t be gettin’ seasick or nothin’ or my back is gonna be covered in whatever’s in your stomach.”

Gerik managed a chuckle having relaxed significantly because of Wu’s kindness. Still he strained to look at Limsa Lominsa, trying to look for a blue haired Elezen. He thought he caught a glimpse of her for a second, but it was just what looked like a muscular man’s long blue wig blowing off in the sea breeze.

The waves rocked the boat back and forth, Wu seemed to know exactly how to steer a ship through choppy waters; it was sort of nice despite the thunder and lightning emanating from the sky above them.

“H-Hey.” Wu tensed up all of a sudden. “What’s that?”

Gerik snapped his attention from Limsa’s docks, to the horizon. Nothing. “What’s what?”

Wu looked back at Gerik sternly. “I know for a fact that I didn’t pack no lamb sausage in the back of my pants this mornin’.”
“Well.. the rocking.. and you’re so warm..” Gerik trailed off.

Wu grinned, “S’all right, I know how it is being a man.. Just don’t go drizzlin’ me with your baby gravy, I paid a lot for these pants.”

Some Bells Later –

Gerik opened his eyes from a nap, surprised by the bleakness of the sky, Dalamud seemed to glow stranger than usual. “Must be starting soon.”

Wu nodded. “I think we might be far enough from the impact zone now, but I’ll keep pressing further.”

Gerik squinted at Dalamud, “Hey, Wu, look at that..”

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. Nothing too out of the ordinary. “Look at what now?”

Gerik flashed a wide grin at Wu. “You don’t have a lamb sausage down your pants anymore”

Wu smiled, rolled his eyes, and turned back to the wheel. “Boy, and it only took a few bells to do so!”

To their left a large splash erupted, a few passengers on the ship ran to look at the commotion. When they realized that it was a fragment of Dalamud, they fled for cover below the bridge. More fragments came flying their way, most hitting the water far away. Gerik breathed a sigh of relief.

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. “What the – Are those wings?”

Gerik gripped Wu’s torso. “It’s coming closer.”

In an instant the giant wyrm was overhead and seemed to be en route to Limsa.

“You’d best hold on tight, Gerik.” Wu braced himself against the ship’s rail.
A massive wave took hold of the ship and with a fierce speed smashed it into the Procession of Terns. Luckily when the ship was destroyed Wu managed to wedge himself between the railing and the walkway of the procession with Gerik still affixed to his back. Wu himself had a small plank of wood impaled through his left calf, Gerik got off mostly unscathed save various cuts and bruises. Wu had been knocked unconscious by one of the ship’s support beams.

Gerik looked over at the direction in which the massive wyrm flew. “Deirdre...”
</spoiler> [[File:GerikHoney.png|right]]

'''''New Beginnings'''''
<spoiler>It had been a week since the tidal wave hit Limsa Lominsa. People were still looking and grieving for loved ones. A few rays of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the first rays anyone had seen in days. Gerik had been holed up in Iawu’s home in Limsa Lominsa. It was a long week.

“You’ll be alright laying here Wu?” Gerik touched Wu’s leg gingerly. He had just rebandaged the wound.

“Aye, that pretty nurse comes by regularly, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” Wu says with a grin.

“Pretty nurse… ” Gerik thought for a moment. “I thought there was only a MALE midlander nurse that came by here? You never told me you…”

“You never asked.” Wu finished quickly. “But anyway, you had best go, I know you want to look for Deirdre.” He tossed Gerik a sack of gil. “S’what Deirdre ordered me to give to you.”

Gerik caught the sack, nearly dropping it in the process. “Oh, this is the gil..” He kneeled down and reached into the sack, pulling out whatever could fit in his hand and stuffed it down Wu’s pocket. “For breaking my fall.” Before leaving, he flashed Iawu a small grin.

---
Gerik pulled the mint green scarf over his chin as he began his journey outside of Limsa Lominsa taking only a moment to glance back at the battered city-state as the wind billowed.
</spoiler>

'''''New Beginnings II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik made his way to Carteneau astonished at the remnants of the battle. Already he'd stumbled upon several corpses, each in varying states of decay. Although he'd never admit it, he cried at the sight of each, thinking any of them could have been be his friend once. Weapons occasionally occasionally served as beacons that glittered in the sun. The highlander came across a bow made of a strange purple stone, it needed a restringing, but otherwise it seemed to work fine. he picked it up and slung it over his shoulder. A short prayer was uttered to ask for forgiveness to take this bow and to offer peace to whomever once held it. He spent the entire day looking for a body with long blue hair, one of these days he vowed to come back with flowers in honor of the dead. The area was a wasteland, he was the only one alive and walking in the area with only corpses to greet him.

He saw a midlander cadaver that he thought was his friend Blade, he was slumped over on his massive axe, and it looked like he was missing an arm as well as half his face. Resisting the urge to sob again, he reached into his bag to find something appropriate to offer as his condolences. Finding nothing of worth, Gerik settled on placing his lunch: two boiled eggs and a few Mizzenmast Biscuits, at the knees of the man. Then he made a ring of stones around him, to signify that someone did care about him. However, Gerik never found who he was looking for. Disheartened, he turned around and headed to Gridania.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Two:''''' ====

'''''Can you Even Lift?'''''
<spoiler>"So, moving on then, do you have any weaknesses?"

"Hmmm, well I don't like getting stung by bees, if that's what you mean." Gerik shifted uncomfortably in the ash chair. "Oh! Also I haven't really tasted honey that much previously."

His elezen interviewer grimaced, unsure what to do with his responses. "Uhh.. so do you have any previous experience with beekeeping?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I used to get stung by bees a lot, that's how I know I don't like it." Rolling up his left sleeve, he pointed to an area on his arm where a bee had stung him. "I think this was the most recent, a few years ago maybe."

She stared blankly. "I just... I don't think you're qualified. But we don't have any other applicants, so I guess you're hired? Wait, you can lift at least one of those hives right?"

"Easily, probably." He looked through the window behind her at the wooden crate-looking hive.

"Oh, would you mind demonstrating, just for proof?" She turned around to fetch him some protective gear but was confused to find out that he'd left the shack, probably because of his impatient expectancy to demonstrate himself competent at the job.

She heard yelling coming from outside and immediately knew what had happened. He had tried to pick up an already populated hive.</spoiler>

'''''Honey Straight from the Hive'''''
<spoiler>"Just draw the bowstring back like this, and hold it. Hold your breath and take in your surroundings. Keep the scene in your mind. You may let go now, slowly." Calloused fingers touched the highlander's shoulder. "You've done well today, keep practicing."

Gerik looked confusedly in reciprocation and released the string just as she had told him. "But I didn't shoot anything."

"Ah, but you did. You just don't know it yet." The elderly elezen woman patted his head of hair. "You young people are so impatient nowadays."

"Hm.. Well ok. Same time tomorrow then?" He handed her a satchel that jingled with the sound of glass.

Her eyes widened as she opened the satchel. "Oh goody, my favorite, honey straight from the hive." She smacked her lips, "And how creative, you left part of the honeycomb in the jar. Momma's got to buy some toast to enjoy this with!" She tapped her chin with her bony fingers. "Yes, same time tomorrow. By the way, where did you get your bow, it's very, how do you say, unique?"

"I actually found it when looking for a friend.. Up in Mor Dhona. I guess someone dropped it or something." He handed he the bow, figuring that she wanted to see it for a better inspection.

She delivered a loud slap. "A dead man's bow?! What were you thinking?! Her nostrils flared as she exhaled.

Gerik recoiled after her slap and rubbed his stinging bicep, "Oww...that hurt."

She knocked on the bow, "Such an odd material wouldn't you say? Definitely not wood, some sort of stone, perhaps? Still, at least it's a longbow, wouldn't want a man like you to be using a sissy miqo'te shortbow." She chuckled at her comment bemusedly. "Hell maybe I would have ripped this bow out of some poor sap's dying hands too!"
</spoiler>

'''''"BZZZZZ"'''''
<spoiler>“The... bee goes Bzzzzzz?” Gerik raises an eyebrow at Iawu. “Is that… is that me getting stung on the ass?”

Iawu let out a hearty laugh. “Aye, was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Gerik stifled a laugh by biting his tongue, trying to appear serious. “W-well how couldn’t I? It’s just there… in the open, you even used the crack in the book as my buttcrack, what kind of kids book is this anyway?”

Iawu flipped through the pages of another copy and answered rather pointedly. “It’s an alphabet book, B is for Bee, D’you think it’s any good?”

After looking at his illustrated ass from every angle one could possibly imagine with a book, Gerik shifted his gaze back at Iawu whilst cracking a grin. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that story about me and the Honey Yard. And I didn’t get stung on the ass, I got stung on the uh… my...” Gerik furrowed his brows, thinking. “This thingy!” He points to his tailbone.

Iawu shrugged. “Close enough!” He took a seat and began flipping through the book again. “What sound d’you reckon an imp makes?”

Gerik’s face shifted from pensive to dumbfounded over a period of tics. “How’s this?” Gerik tucked his hands under his armpits and flapped imaginary imp wings. “SKREE SKREE!”

Iawu continued staring, even after Gerik’s sound effects. “Wow… I gotta say, that was… that was awful.”

Gerik crossed his arms. “Well you do it then.”

Iawu set the book on the table adjacent to his seat and got up, briefly adjusting his glasses. He brings his hands up to shoulder height and begins flapping them furiously. “TIIII, TIIII!” He stopped suddenly when he caught a glimpse of an old woman staring at them through the window.

“I-I was going to offer you some popotoes… but I think I’ll give them to that harlot next door instead…” The old woman chewed her lower lip for a while before adjusting her bra and walking away.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Three:''''' ====
'''''Men's Underwear'''''
<spoiler>The rain left Gerik's hair like dew covered grass. He hadn't expected how enjoyable it would be to work at the honey yard. Despite a painful start, he quickly learned the practice of beekeeping, and in fact, he enjoyed it immeasurably. He ran his hand through his hair before starting to harvest the honey from a nearby hive. Thoughts of several years ago flooded his head, mostly of Dalamud. He had always wondered where all the familiar faces that he was so accustomed to seeing went; where was Kylin, where was Deirdre, where was Blade? He plucked a bee out of the honey, it had mistakenly flown in.

Gerik sealed off the jar and headed back inside. "I've got the last batch harvested, should I just deliver this stuff now?" He licked his finger after noticing some vestigial honey lingered.

A red haired wildwood woman lifted her eyes from the paper she had been reading. "Oh my.. You're so very fast, I'd even dare to say you're one of the best workers here." Sauntering over she removed her glasses.

Flashing her a grin and glancing behind himself quickly, he decided "I um.. I think I'll just deliver these."

The wildwood woman eyed him up and down before taking his hand and brought it up to her lips.

Gerik was a rigid plank of wood, he cringed at her advances, but she was his superior. Her tongue was a snake slithering over the finger he had licked prior. "Right um.. I think it's, it's.." Gerik shifted uncomfortably. "Look, the new Lalafell employee is stealing the honey!" As the eleven woman spun around to look outside the window, he took his delivery and ran.

---

"This seems like the place..?" A large Uldahn mansion that had seen better days stood in his path. He took the knocker in his hand, but the door opened before he could bring it down, a sophisticated looking highlander woman met his gaze and answered rather pointedly.

"Baelhyn residence, this is Etienne."

"Oh, ah I'm here for the delivery, yeah?"

"I see. Please bring it this way, and leave your shoes outside, they are filthy."

She led him past the foyer and into the kitchen. What looked like a mansion that would have employed a full retinue of retainers was empty and lonely.

"Please leave it here." Her gloved hand pointed to a countertop, as he approached she began to develop a displeased expression on her face. "When was the last shower you had? Your very smell is causing me to age."

Taken aback by her comment, Gerik paused for an inordinate amount of time before placing the jars on the counter. "Walking from Gridania to Ul'dah isn't a short walk, yeah?"

She seemed to ignore his last comment,"Why, I feel as though I should do the greater community a service and allow you a shower."
"Thanks? I think."

Gerik stood still, still unsure of what transpired. When he snapped back, he realized the woman was already down the hallway.

"You will have to use the master's bathroom, I am afraid the other bathrooms are in disrepair at this moment in time." Producing a plush towel from her right hand, she opened the door to the ornately decorated bathroom and let him inside. "Do not steal anything, I know exactly how many soaps and miscellaneous bath accessories we have." With that she turned on her heel and closed the door behind her, tawny brown hair trailing after.

Gerik removed off his shirt and pants quickly, however he decided to examine the bathroom a little closer, it had been a long while since he'd seen a posh bathroom like this, he eagerly opened all the soaps and sniffed them, and then looked though the drawers. In one he found what looked like a collection men's underwear. He looked behind him making sure Etienne wasn't behind him. Quickly he removed his own underwear and pulled up the one he found; grinning, he modeled for himself in the mirror.

"Ahem."
A well dressed man stood in the doorway.
"My, when the cat is away, the mice will certainly play."
</spoiler>

'''''Men's Underwear Part II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik turned around to catch a glimpse of the man who possessed the assertive baritone voice.
A clean-cut highlander man stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around his waist; sun-kissed skin glowing from the afternoon sun. “So I suppose this is what the menial labor of Eorzea has come to, trying on others’ clothes and doing as they please in another’s house.”

Gerik twiddled his thumbs. “Ah, sorry.. I didn’t mean to-.”
A smirk crossed the noble’s lips, and slowly his mouth distorted as if to hold back laughter, the dam that was his lips eventually gave way and a torrent of laughter followed. Slowly his laughter slackened, Gerik stood dumbfounded at the man throughout the process.

“I’m sorry, you just have no idea how dull these days are; a little excitement is good.” He wiped tears from his eyes. “Usually the only person I ever talk to is Etienne, and I’m quite afraid we’ve run out of things to talk about. Anyway, my name is Issachar, and you are?”

Gerik grinned, happy that the situation didn’t end up with him being arrested. “I’m Gerik, from the Honey Yard, but um.. nice place you got here.”

Issachar nodded and scanned the floor, not seeming to pay attention the latter part of what Gerik said. “So you were going to take a bath, I take it?”

Gerik positioned himself so that he could lean against the sink across the doorway. “Yeah, your assistant kind of dragged me up here.”
“Etienne will definitely do that. She might call me ‘Master’ or what have you, but she’s the real one that runs this estate. But ah, I suppose you don’t need to hear all this, I’ll wait my turn to use the facilities.” With that, he bowed and gently closed the door behind him. “You can keep that underwear by the way!” Issachar projected from the other side of the door.

---

Briefly into his bath, he heard a few knocks on the door. “Mister Gerik, Master Baelhyn wishes to have tea with you after his shower. He has also instructed for me to lay clothes out for you, they are located on the end table outside of this door.”
Smiling at the rhythmic intervals of Etienne’s heels going down the hallway he closed his eyes and soaked in the tub.
</spoiler>

'''''Tea is Served'''''
<spoiler>

Etienne dropped a silver tray laden with a teapot and two teacups abruptly on the table with a loud clank. "Your tea sir." She turned on her heels and walked back to the kitchen.

The two men stared at each other a moment wondering what that minor outburst meant. Issachar broke the silence first. "Forgive her, I assume she's most used to serving nobility. I'm assuming she's taking serving an ah.. how do I say this delicately." Issachar murmured to himself. "Ah, there it is, working class member. She's taking serving a working class member as an affront to her station, or that's what I'm presuming anyway."

Gerik stopped mixing honey into his tea briefly to look back at Issachar. "I can go, if it's making her feel bad, yeah?"

"No, no, you're fine. Hell, for all I know, we might be members of this working class soon, my parents' business ventures haven't been going very well with me at the wheel." Issachar shrugged nonchalantly and sipped at his tea. "I mean, if the state of this house isn't an indicator."

"It's not so bad, I can get you a job at the Honey Yard." Gerik smirked and leaned back in his chair and gestured to the jar of honey sitting on the glass tea table. "It's more difficult than it seems to harvest that."

Issachar feigned a scoff. "Such a lowly position has no place with these noble hands!" When his attempt at a joke failed and Gerik looked more confused than anything, the highborn highlander tried to revive the conversation again. "I uh.. that was my attempt at being humorous, my apologies for offending. Truth be told, I'd enjoy experiencing that."

"You will do no such thing." Etienne's encroaching footsteps alerted the two to her position, she carried a tray of fruit tarts. "You need to consider your parents' legacy, may they rest in peace, before you go off gallivanting with some man you just met a few hours ago, I will not be selling myself off in the streets like those Concern girls." She shot Gerik a deadly look before placing the tray onto the table.

"Well why not? I mean it's good work." Gerik replied, a bit more defensive than he would have liked.

"I am afraid I will not be dignifying that with a response." She crossed her arms and looked away.

Issachar laughed profusely before breaking into a coughing fit. "Look at you two, like an old married couple." He was the only one that chuckled at his own joke. "But I suppose you're right, I do need to attend to business." Issachar fiddled with his cravate. "Tell you what Gerik, why don't make an arrangement where you come by and visit weekly or so?"
</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Four:''''' ====

'''''Becoming a Tree'''''
<spoiler>A dapper man stepped out behind an ornate changing screen. "Well, how is it?" He ran his hands over the satiny fabric covering his chest. "I'm not quite so fond of this collar."

"Mister Issachar, it's fine. I hired the best seamstresses at sunsilks, they even embroidered your family crest into it." A silver marmot laid at the cuff of his left sleeve.

"Oh, that's what that is." He ran his fingers over the embroidery. "This is supposed to represent my family's fur trade, yeah?"

Etienne rolled her eyes. "You've been starting to speak like that... like that uncouth delinquent ever since you allowed him to commandeer the guest bedroom."

The royal purple bowtie gleamed like an amethyst as Issachar straightened it. Peering through the mirror at Etienne he smirked. "Be nicer to him, won't you?"

She made a sigh and gave him an acidic look. "Shall I make arrangements for Lady Ardris to escort you? I really wish you didn't invite that crude lummox."

The placid expression on his face broke. He coughed. "You mean for that vile, insipid woman to escort me?"

"We have no choice, we're losing gil, do you want us to be out on the streets?! Putting yourself in a position to marry Lady Ardris is the best shot you have at bringing this family back to the wealth it once knew." With a hand on her hips she turned around biting her lip, she hated mandating things to him.

Looking wistfully at the bird that had just perched itself on the windowsill, Issachar answered, "I suppose you're right." A sigh left his lips. "Say, Etienne, what do you suppose of the idea of you taking over my parents' business. If I recall, you're quite proficient at numbers."

"Well, sure, I graduated top of my class at the old Mavanix Academy. But what do you mean to say?" She spun around on her heel to look at him accusingly. "You're just giving up?"

A dignified gait carried the man over to a sofa where he sat and placed a book onto his lap. "Oh come now, let's not sugarcoat things, we both know the time of my eternal sleep is sooner than later... I've put a lot of thought into this, and I think you should be the rightful leader to my parents' legacy, they always did love you like a daughter, just as I've always loved you as a sister." He tapped the book a few times to break the silence that fell after his declaration, "I've been reading this story, the protagonist dies and wants to be buried with a tree to celebrate the metaphorical union of the cycle of life and death. I'd like to think I could go that way too, so very poetic."

With tears welling in her eyes she delivered a hard backhand to his face. "No more of this talk." She took a tic to compose herself and to wipe the tears from her face. "I'll need to prepare Gerik for this society event should you really wish for him to attend with you."

Issachar nodded, holding the side of his face. "... please do."

---

Several rhythmic knocks alerted Gerik to a prescence on the other side of the bathroom door. He put down the rubber chocobo he had been playing with in the bathtub. "Eh? That you Etienne?"

A muffled reply came from the other side of the door. "I so wish that you would stop speaking in that agrarian elocution you love so dearly. When you come out of there I have a few lessons for you."

"What kind of lessons? Are they going to be painful again?" Gerik looked at the burn mark he had on his palm from grabbing an deceptively hot pan.

"Well my goodness, I had no idea I was living with a little girl, and who grabs a cast iron pan without a potholder anyway?!" She struck the door with her hand.

He could hear her tapping her heels to the floor, she was growing impatient. "Alright, alright, I'm coming." He set the rubber chocobo atop the faucet and drained the water from the bathtub.</spoiler>

==== '''''Year Five:''''' ====

'''''Issachar'''''
<spoiler>Issachar collapsed one balmy day in Ul'dah. Everything seemed pleasant enough, his favorite tree in the garden had just grown fruit. Etienne was out conducting business on his behalf, and Gerik was probably out with his Roegadyn friend. It was a shame he'd never gotten to meet this Burgenheim fellow, Gerik told him all about the Roegadyn's enthusiasm for books. Perhaps they could have traded stories. He would concede that he felt jealous of Gerik spending so much time with the man, But it was for the best, they all knew this day would come. Issachar drew up his will just the other week, he had every faith that Etienne would revive his parent's namesake; and Gerik, well, he wanted him to be happy. A percentage was to be skimmed off the top of their profits and sent directly to Gerik, weekly, Etienne was to do this herself; as for the Baelhyn Manor, they were to each own half the rights to the property. it would take a lot of gil to repair things that had fallen to a state of disrepair.

He coughed.

Issachar didn't want to burden them with his inconvenience, it was good that neither of them were home, they could enjoy their time out to the fullest. He stared at the ceiling cursing his ailment, imagining Gerik's skin against his own, his stubble like a cat's tongue running down his chest. And then that first day they had met. He reminisced over the warm honeyed toast they had shared that this morning, honey could certainly only be described as liquid gold. Or even earlier that morning when he spent a good deal of time just happy to be cuddling with the man, his hands intimately embraced around Gerik's chest, he was always so warm, and he loved when Gerik's musk wafted into his nose. Gerik's natural musk was like an open field; it made think him of cobblestones and maybe ash trees, somewhere open and free. Then his vision began to fade, so he closed his eyes. His hearing dulled, so he stopped listening. His breath began to weaken, so he stopped breathing.</spoiler>

'''''Cake'''''
<spoiler>"MY CAKE! WHERE IS IT?!" Etienne tore through the manor like a madwoman. Loud footsteps encroached quickly toward a sleeping Gerik. "DID YOU EAT IT?! DID YOU?!"

He rubbed his eyes lazily and propped himself up on one arm over the sofa. "Ugh.. My brain is telling me you're being way too loud for my hangover right now."

"You did eat it didn't you?! There isn't anything in this house that hasn't been in your mouth at least once!" Her eyes grew large with rancor. "You even ate some of my eye cream! And don't act like I didn't notice, I saw your fingerprints on the patina on the side and there was about a spoonful missing!"

"Hey! It looked like whipped cream, and it was in such a nice little jar!" He sat up, already feeling tense from their constant conflicts ever since he moved in, though lately it had gotten worse.

"Gods, you are one of the most disgusting beings that ever inhabited Hydaelyn! I saved up MOONS for that cake! Not to mention how long it took to get onto the waiting list to even buy it! The Bismarck only makes five of those a year!" Each of her words were punctuated by the stomping sound of her custom made heels. "Well?! Did you eat all of it?!"

"I uh... Nooooo?" Knowing she was right, he scanned the room for the tray it had come in.

"I should have known. You only have about FIVE stomachs in that body of yours." She sighed and pivoted around, "Well, I have a board meeting to attend, but I expect reparations when I return! And clean your room, it looks like the asshole of the Mineral Concern exploded in there!"

A few quick motions of her hands and her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows and her business attire was smoothed over.

As soon as he knew she left the foyer, he trudged over to the kitchen and pulled a little box out of the pantry. Quickly thumbing through the slips of paper, he began to look for a recipe.
</spoiler>

'''''Cake Part II'''''
<spoiler>
Etienne exhaustingly pushed the stained glass door open, she kicked off her heels and continued to walk over to her room. Halfway there she caught a whiff of something heavenly coming from the kitchen. She peeked around the corner and caught sight of Gerik trying to frost what looked like a piece of marmot steak.

His tongue stuck out like an upturned leaf as he paddled icing on with a spoon. Not noticing her peeking in the doorway, he proceeded to apply what looked like wording to the cake. He thought to himself about what happened earlier that day, he had been an ass. He had just been so angry lately. Angry at Etienne, angry at Issachar, but mostly angry at himself. He tried to legibly pipe out "I'm Sorry" on the cake, and mostly achieved legibility. Gerik sighed deeply and looked over at his cake, staring at it a moment before slowly sliding the platter that held the cake to the edge of the counter and dumping it nonchalantly in the trash where all his previous cakes had landed. Leaning against the counter with his back facing Etienne. With a somber look at the trash, Gerik slid to the floor,tucking his knees into his chest.

"You don't need to waste food, you know." Etienne cracked a grin at him. Her hazel eyes looked over the somber looking highlander, he hadn't responded to her remark. "Look, I'm sorry, I've been quite tough on you ever since Issachar took a fancy to you... Well, ever since you first visited really." She tucked a stray piece of tawny hair behind her ear. "It's been tough ever since Mister Baelhyn left, I know."

His eyes had begun to grow glassy. Knowing her stoic analytical nature, he appreciated that she was even trying to make a joke of sorts, but the truth was that he had been incredibly unhappy ever since the death of his lover, Issachar. He nodded through her attempted dialogue with him, but he simply couldn't concentrate.

She sighed and slid onto the the floor next to Gerik, it was covered in flour, but she was beyond the point of caring about her clothes. "You know.. I ordered the cake for the both of us, I wanted us to enjoy it during this tough time. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you." She placed her palm flat on the floor and shifted some flour around.

Without warning, Gerik wrapped his arms around her in an embrace. He buried his tear-streaked face into her shoulder. "N-no, I'm sorry. I just.. I just-"

"I know, I know, I miss him too." She patted him uncomfortably, bodily contact was a pet peeve of hers. Still, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "I think I know something that we can do that would make Issachar happy, I'll be right back." Moments later she returned holding a seed, "I um.. I remember him saying that he wanted to have a tree planted inside his grave. Mind you I don't know what kind of tree this is, but perhaps this will do." Delicately she opened the mans hands and places the seed between his palms. She gave him a half smile before taking a few steps backward. "See to it that you tell that new maid of ours that this mess get attended to."</spoiler>

==== '''''Current''''' ====
(COMING SOON)

== '''''Rumors''''' ==

'''''Common Rumors'''''

*“Aye, that’s the guy I saw at the Bismark, ate nearly 3 plates o’ raw oysters ‘afore passing out in a room at the Mizzenmast.” -Astonished Highlander

*“You remember that one man who came by and chatted me up last week right? Babette told me over linkshell that she just saw him snogging a Roegadyn in the Market Wards, and not a female one! …No, you most certainly cannot watch them Damali!” – Scorned Midlander

*“With a gilded tongue like that, I’m not surprised he’s not got a higher position in society. Don’t even get me started on that nice lookin’ body he’s got.” – Lascivious Roegadyn

*"I heard that guy has a terrible work ethic, sometimes doesn't show up for days! But damn if I can't say no to that smile." - Conflicted Elezen

*"You could probably sell a bridge to that guy, he'll believe whatever you tell him...I guess all looks, no brains? ...Sure was good in bed though." - Disappointed Lalafell

'''''Intermittent Rumors:'''''

*“I heard he grew up at some orphanage in Gridania, why’d ya think his parents would give him up, oooh, maybe he has mental issues, or maybe the moogles brought him to Gridania, or maybe…” – Presumptuous Lalafell

*“The Adventurer’s Guild doesn’t seem to like to hand him leves, supposedly he turns down most of them. Sounds like pure slothfulness to me, what happened to the quality of our adventurers? Back in my day, adventurers weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.” – Elderly Elezen

*"I heard he came into some gil recently, first that rich Mavanix boy, and then that Baelhyn heir.. I bet he's a no-good golddigger!" - Scandalous Elezen

'''''Rare Rumors:''''' 

*“The other week I caught him hanging out with an Ixal near Murmur Rills, looked pretty comfortable with em’. Guess when it comes to friends he don’t discriminate even between beastmen, could probably use that as some damn good blackmail though.” – Scheming Roegadyn

*“You know about those rich aristocrats in Ul’dah right? Apparently that bloke might’ve had some intimate relations with one of them, or one of their sons; whichever, it don’t matter much, anyway it ended sourly. Rarely ventures into Ul’dah now, or at least that’s what I noticed, and I would know! I sell the airship tickets from Gridania!” – Gossipy Elezen

*“Heard his parents might still be alive despite them being off the grid for years. Don’t think he’s interested in trying to locate them though, I think they used to use him just for their benefit and dumped him in Gridania when it got rough.” – Softspoken Midlander

'''''Player Character Rumors (Feel free to add your own!):'''''

* "He is a loyal sort, with a bigger heart than his chest can contain. If you are inquiring after him with intention to harm, I will string you up and flay the flesh from your bones." -[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]

* "I never cared about anyone like I did him. But alas, Nymeia had other plans." -[[Kylin Felstar]]

* "Who? Oh- Yea, he's tall. And.. large? No, really, I've not met him but twice or so.. I can't tell you much about him. If you see him though, tell him I didn't mean to hit him aye?" -[[Aysun Demiir]]

== '''''Affiliations''''' ==

*'''''[[Burgenheim Rousa]]:''''' Gerik's new confidant and best friend, he visited the Corvus Cinis Headquarters nearly every day while living in Ul'dah to visit him. He loves the stories the Roegadyn tells him. Gerik is thankful for the Roegadyn's presence, as Burgenheim was the only friend he had in Ul'dah at the time.

*'''''[[Kerr V'yen]]:''''' A male miqote he met when assisting in the rehabilitation of Gridania. They have since lost contact, but being that Kerr was the first male miqo'te Gerik has met, Kerr made quite an impression.

*'''''[[Kylin Felstar]]:''''' Quite possibly one of the most unexpected friends he's ever had. Kylin didn't turn out to be what Gerik expected a rich entitled heir to be. They had an intense short-lived relationship over a few months; Gerik now believes Kylin is dead due to 5 years of no contact.

*'''''[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]:''''' Deirdre has grown to be a matriarchal figure for Gerik. Despite him not knowing why she often goes out of her way to protect him, he enjoys her company. She's also served as Gerik's mentor of sorts in the art of the dagger. Recently relations between them got more awkward because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years and believes her dead.

*'''''[[Blade Belisaire]]:''''' Blade has been a sort of recurring acquaintance for Gerik; they first met when Gerik tried to pick him up in a bar. He doesn't know much about the man, except that he's been acting a bit.. off, as of lately. He hasn't seen him in 5 years and believes him dead.

*'''''[[Eva Ianeira]]:''''' Gerik finds Eva a very pleasant acquaintance. He doesn't know her that well, however she gave him medical attention after his shoulder had been stabbed and he feels indebted to her to a degree. He'd like to get to know the even-tempered duskwight better. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Ariel Madaellyn]]:'''''At their first meeting, Gerik was very much intimidated by Ariel, she holds such an authoritative aura about her.  However he's begun to let his guard down around her and has decided that she's genuinely a nice person. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Selene Artemis]]:''''' He knows Selene as Blade's girlfriend. The two haven't really gotten to know each other much, but he feels awkward about their relationship because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Yssen Van]]:''''' Very few words have been exchanged between Yssen and Gerik. Previously finding Yssen hypocritical on the topic of his sister and distancing himself between Yssen, he's decided to let the past be the past. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

== '''''Fan Art''''' ==

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the art done of Gerik, and I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to draw him!

<spoiler>

[[File:CJGerik2.jpg]]

[[File:GerikMtotoresize.jpeg]]

[[File:GerikDeirdre.jpeg]]

[[File:CJGerik.jpg]]

[[File:Gerik by michialmasy-d67dx5n.png]]

[[File:NNFCD.jpg]]

[[File:GerikPants.png]]

[[File:Gerikcupcake.png]]

</spoiler>

== '''''Annotations''''' ==

'''''The Sketchbook:''''' Since he was young, Gerik has always kept a sketchbook handy, primarily because of his affinity to drawing.  He's gone through quite a lot over the years (13 total) and keeps them in his lodging with the exception of the one being used, which is always kept on his person.  Many of his sketches are of the creatures that live in Eorzea, as well as men he finds attractive.  He's quite private about the contents of his sketchbook, save for those people he trusts the most.  One of the caretakers at the Acorn Orchard got him his first sketchbook, and since then he's been attached to the idea.

*'''''Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to talk to me about planning an RP or something. Either sending me a /tell in game or a PM on the RPC will work. I'm down for most everything, plus Gerik needs more friends!'''''

If you wanted more stuff to read about Gerik, you could check out these pages on TvTropes: [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GentleGiant Gentle Giant], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DumbMuscle Dumb Muscle], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/MenCantKeepHouse Men Can't Keep House], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TheSlacker The Slacker], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GymBunny Gym Bunny], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/StraightGay Straight Gay].

'''''Actor who would Portray Gerik''''': [http://www.thepictureswarehouse.com/d/72483-1/Marco+Dapper+picture+6.jpg Marco Dapper]

'''''Theme Song''''': [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-gXQqtjBjU Lazy Daydream]

Gerik: /* Cycle Five */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Gerik Brynn Aston
| image = GerikAVARef.png
| imagewidth = 300
| caption =
| title = The Zephyr
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = Menphina, the Lover
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 26 (Post Dalamud)
| stat_3 = Nameday
| stat_3_value = 26th Sun of the 6th Astral Moon
| stat_4 = Orientation
| stat_4_value = Homosexual
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Beekeeper
}}

== '''''Basic Info''''' ==

''Gerik is a laid-back, charismatic highlander and can usually be seen with a smile on his face. He tries hard to avoid as much responsibility as possible (save for those causes he deems worth fighting for), not because he’s lazy, per se, he just wants to feel like he has the freedom to do what he wants, when he wants. Feeling his bare feet in the grass or the cool breeze that blows through the Twelveswood are some of his greatest pleasures.''

== '''''Appearance''''' ==

[[File:GerikRedClothes400.png|right|]]

'''''Height:'''''

:6 fulms, 6 ilms - he is a bit taller than most Highlanders. 

'''''Weight:'''''

:243 ponz – Gerik is a bit bulky in terms of muscle. He attributes his physique to good genes as he doesn't really do anything consciously to retain or build muscle. 

'''''Body:'''''

:Gerik is well-built and defined having somewhat of a gymnast's build. Having worked for a short time at the Greatloam Growery in [[Gridania]] assisted in the development of muscle as well as his normal ability to retain his physique has ensured that Gerik is somewhat of a prime specimen of desire for the opposite sex.. or in his case, the same sex. He thinks his best attributes are probably his chest and arms. 

'''''Complexion:'''''

:Tanned, bronzed skin covers Gerik's body. He used to have a few scars, but since he's been cohabiting with Deirdre she's returned his skin to its original condition. He has a symmetrical tattoo on his face, a simple design comprised of six white lines. 

'''''Hair:'''''

:Gerik normally crops his hair very close to the scalp. He's considered growing it out however he generally doesn't like when his hair grows long enough to touch his ears. If he let it grow out, its natural color would be one of a darker burgundy or maroon. A moderate amount of stubble grows on his jawline, normally Gerik doesn't bother to trim it everyday, opting to trim it once every three days or so. Starting at his belly button, Gerik has a light dusting of hair that leads down to his genital region, sometimes he shaves it off, other times not. 

'''''Fashion:'''''

:Shirtless is the way to go for Gerik. He finds that it provides the most freedom in terms of everyday activities, and he also likes to feel the breeze around him. However in situations where a shirt of some sort is necessary, he'll tend to use some sort of lightweight, breathable fabric. He also has a set of clothing for more formal events, he thinks that the wedge cap from the set makes him looks less intimidating. In downtime alone, Gerik can be seen in normally just his underwear, or a set of pants and shoes. 

== <div style="text-align: left;">'''''Personality''''' ==

[[File:GerikAVA.png|left]]

Due to Gerik's odd upbringing, he still remains a child at heart. More than anything he wants to be liked and to have people he can trust and rely on. He's very social and trusts people very easily due to this, however at the same time he's also afraid to let people get too close for the fear of others hurting him. Others might perceive him as being gullible and a bit slow and they'd probably be right. He never had a 'good' education, so in that regard he's not quite so bright. During his time spent at Gridania he's learned a little about how to cultivate plants, which plants have medicinal properties to them, and which plants are safe to eat, in addition to a bunch of other assorted knowledge about plants and creatures within the forest. Many would describe Gerik as 'lucky', sometimes things happen to him with little to no effort on his part, or he gets something accomplished in a very unorthodox manner.

Despite him not being a 'Forestborn,' he thinks he's earned the trust of the local Gridanians enough for them to treat him as one. He's spent a lot of his time in the Twelveswood, even going as far as to camp in the canopies of the trees at night. When on these extended camping trips he usually spends most of his time napping, or observing the happenings within the forest, his employers are generally not pleased as he may not come in to work for a few days or more. His favorite haunt is the White Willow near Camp Emerald Moss.

'''''Family''''': 
Gerik's mother and father were trading merchants, often travelling between every city-state. His surname, Aston, comes from his mother's maiden name and its midlander origins come from the words "East", and "tun", or the settlement to the east of a main village near the ash trees. Eirika, Gerik's mother, was daughter to a former Ala Mhigan noble house. His father, Ganun, was a commoner, and as such, Eirika was never quite satisfied being married to him. Their son, Gerik is 3/4 Highlander and 1/4 Midlander (from his mother's side).

'''''Personality Traits:'''''

*Charismatic

*Hedonistic

*Absent-Minded

*Clumsy

*Slothful

*Athletic

*Trusting

*Jovial

*Messy

*Warm

*Slow-Witted

*Lucky

'''''Talents:'''''

*Socialization

*Wilderness Survival

*Singing (Singing voice is based off John Martin, please ignore the electronic background music [http://youtu.be/RLaSjeCFnlE] [http://youtu.be/-yg3dLEDWqs] [http://youtu.be/-bt94yKsKHQ])

*Sketching 

*Tracking/Hunting 

*Stealth 

 

'''''Likes:''''' 

*The Twelveswood

*Riding Airships

*Freedom

*Gossip

*Fireworks 

'''''Favorite Food:''''' 

*Raw Oyster

'''''Favorite Color:''''' 

*A bit undecided, definitely either blue or green though.

'''''Favorite Creature:'''''

*Apkallus

 

'''''Dislikes:''''' 

*Snooty condescending people

*The Ul’dahan “gil makes the world go round” mentality

*People who disrespect the Twelveswood

*Being used

*Books and Reading

 

'''''Fears:''''' 

*Feeling obligated to a lot of responsibility

*Becoming incapacitated, or otherwise less mobile 

*Losing peoples' favor 

 

----

=== '''''Demeanor:''''' ===

Gerik tends to take a flippant approach to the world, that is, everything but a few select things are not taken quite as seriously as they should be, he also comes off as an optimist. Some of his favorite pasttimes are conversing and meeting new people. His charismatic and charming nature make acquiring friends a simple task, however he’s not one to sugarcoat things, instead preferring to be blunt and openly disagree should a point he feels is wrong manifest. In fact, due to his blunt nature, sometimes inappropriate comments may be blurted out. Despite this, Gerik tries hard to be as good-natured and kindhearted as possible.

[[File:GerikLayDown2.png|right]]
 

'''''Quirks:''''' 

*Has a very large appetite, can usually be seen snacking if there is nothing more pressing to attend to, nobody really knows how he stays in shape, not even Gerik.

*Gerik is quite sloppy; he strategically packs his bag every morning, his strategy for packing is to take a bunch of stuff strewn on the floor of his room and haphazardly dump it into his bag.

*Finds Roegadyn men absolutely endearing, he entertains the idea of a cuddly Roegadyn, and likes it, '''a lot'''.

 

----

== '''''History:''''' ==

'''''Childhood''''' 

:Gerik hails from Ala Mhigo. His parents worked as traveling merchants selling and trading wares from one city-state to another. His mother sang to crowds in an effort to increase sales and forced Gerik to do the same once he was old enough.  During the time of the Garlean invasion, Gerik and his parents were in Gridania. Due to Gerik being a child at the time, they decided it would be safer for them to travel since he would be a burden and abandoned him in Gridania. There, he was raised in the Acorn Orchard with other Gridanian children. During his time growing up, he spent a lot of time in the forest basking in its beauty and enjoying the company of the creatures that are native to the Twelveswood. 

'''''Adolescency''''' 

:At the age of adolescency, Gerik decided he should find something meaningful to do with his life and repay the debt he felt he owed to Gridania, and since he's had a sizeable amount of prior experience with a bow (hunting) as well as the practice of tracking prey and remaining unseen; thus he began training more seriously in the art of archery with aspirations to become a member of the God's Quiver (he also dabbled a bit in the art of lances thinking he might be able to join the Wood Wailers, as well as conjury at the Stillglade Fane, however he dismissed these ideas once he realized he couldn't possibly attempt to join all three factions).  

'''''Adulthood''''' 

:However it was not to be; he was not accepted into the God's Quiver on reasons that are still unknown to him, instead they referred him to someone referred to as the "Godsbow." After much listening to Jehantel's songs and using them as a basis for study, he's slowly been increasing his repertoire of songs. Still, he prefers to not perform in public as he's a bit self-conscious. Gerik is currently looking into alternative ways to assist Gridania's cause due to his inability to assist the God's Quiver.  His previous employment history was that of a simple lumberjack for the Botanist's Guild in Gridania. Prior to Dalamud, he found employment with the Shimmersong mercenaries, their headquarters residing in Owl's Nest; he finds the region of Coerthas breathtaking. Presently, he volunteers at the Honey Yard and lives in Ul'dah.
 
----

'''Dreadful Cacaphony''' - 0 
<spoiler>"Ugh." A young highlander woman sighed. "Ganun it it's crying again honestly how can one get her beauty rest with that dreadful cacaphony going on." She rolled over and slapped the highlander male lying adjacent to her. "Wake up and deal with it!" Ganun grunted in defeat and rolled out of bed. He exasperatingly sighed "Yes dear." Ganun coddled the newborn all the while sporting his trademark scowl; eventually the child eased up and fell asleep. He walked back to bed and fell asleep. Morning came and he woke up to his wife Eirika coddling the newborn almost maternally, a trait he thought she never possessed; however his thought was interrupted when she screeched. "You know my womanhood will never be the same because of you the only good thing you've brought me is a larger set of breasts!" She gazed down at her ample cleavage admiring herself. She turned to face Ganun who just awoke. "Ganun darling shouldn't we name this abomination?" She gestured almost disgustingly at the infant. "Yes yes I suppose we should" Ganun replied. After a bell of deliberation, Eirika had a thought. "Ganun why not just combine our names and be done with this nonsense, all this thinking will give me wrinkles; so how does 'Gerik' sound? I think it it's just marvelous, of course it contains more of my name seeing as I'm the important one." She turned around and began to admire her cleavage again. "Yes, I suppose Gerik it is then." He smiled slightly at the newborn, quite possibly the first smile he had in years.</spoiler>

'''Fish & Desperation''' - 4 
<spoiler>"What is that dreadful smell; it smells like fish and desperation!" Eirika held her nose shut with her index finger and thumb. Ganun sighed and said slowly. "Dear we are in Limsa Lominsa trying to sell wares... right now we are in the fish market. Fish. Market." Eirika brushed her hair out of her face and stuck her nose up. "Ganun I do believe it is your turn to supervise Derrick." He sighed. "It's Gerik dear, and yes bring him to me." Ganun replied scowling at his wife. "Yeah, whatever." Eirika shrugged as she was applying more lipstick. "Zarik get over here this iiiinstant!" However the young child did not appear. Eirika cleared her throat and shrieked "Merik!" "Do you mean to tell me you lost our child?" Ganun inquired with the same scowl that was ever present on his face. She replied coolly, "frankly Ganun, I can't be held responsible, for you should have been paying more attention to him. What kind of father are you anyway?!" She adjusted her skirt in such a manner so that it would reveal more of her upper thigh. "But fine, have it your way, I'll go search for the little cretin." She discovered the toddler playing with two fish that probably fell off a cart during transport; two merchant-looking men were next to him offering him various other seafood to play with. "Hi bitch!" the young Gerik exclaimed happily. "You just called me what?!" Eirika's face turned red with anger. "tha-tha's what my new f'rends said your name was e'rlier." He gestured to the two merchants. The merchants stood up visibly embarrassed, we didn't mean it miss we apologi-.” Just then Eirika delivered a quick backhand to both of the merchants faces. She picked up young Gerik before he could crawl off anywhere else and stormed off. She looked down at the toddler and noticed he was holding a rothlyt oyster, she slapped it out of his hands. "No we do not touch anything that looks like a vagin-!" Ganun interrupted her. "Eirika I've prepared our stall. Are you ready?" "Really Ganun, do you have to ask, I was born ready." She flashes an almost sinister grin and brushes some hair out of her face. "But before we begin..." She fashioned a rope attached to the stall as a leash for the toddler and proceeded to arrange her clothes so that they were more revealing. When she was ready she began to sing. </spoiler>

'''Sweet Child''' - 7 
<spoiler>"C'mmere Gerik! Eirika said sternly. "Ok mommy!" Gerik jumped off a stool and ran to her eagerly. "Yes, such a sweet child... now drink this!" Eirika handed him a cup with a strange smelling liquid inside. Gerik looked up at her with a suspicious expression but drank from the clay cup anyway. Moments later, everything seemed to blur together and he passed out on the floor. Eirika turned around "Ganun did you get the man I asked for?" She pulled her hair into an updo. "Yes dear, I did." Ganun opened the door to let a highlander man into their inn room in gridania. "There's your payment... now go! Work! We've discussed the design already." Eirika gestured at Ganun to pay the man to which he obliged. The man pulled out tattooing supplies which he held in a bag and began tattooing the young highlander with the same tattoo his mother had on her face, its significance was unclear; however the highlander tattooist accepted tattooing as part of a highlander tradition and simply did his job and didn't ask questions. When he finished he simply bowed and took his leave. "Now we can find him later darling... I do hope that makes you feel better about this." She twisted a lock of hair around her finger. "Now let's go" Ganun nodded and replied sullenly. "Our wares are packed and are outside already." He looked down at the ground. "Oh that's simply wonderful, now carry this!" He grunted as she tossed a bag of her clothes into his arms. The two highlanders exited the gridanian inn room and left to embark on their mercantile journey to Ul'dah.</spoiler>

'''Something Naughty''' - 10 
<spoiler>Holding a roll of paper in one hand and a stick of charcoal held between his teeth, Gerik began to climb a young tree in the Twelveswood. The cool breeze felt good against his skin. It had been three years since his parents disappeared. He touched the tattoo on his face almost nostalgicly; reflecting for a moment, but just a moment because it got interrupted by him expelling the charcoal from his mouth. "What to draw today?" he thought to himself. Thoughts ran through his head of possible ideas, but he eventually settled on a fluffy marmot on the grass below. "Guess it's another marmot today." Slowly he used the charcoal to render his masterpiece. When he was done, he climbed back down and headed back to the acorn orchard. "Oh my isn't this lovely it's an uh. imperial warship, or maybe it's an uh a pair of woman's bloomers..." The orphanage worker strained to see what exactly it was that Gerik drew. She turned the paper horizontally and vertically but could make no sense of what it was. "Is that something naughty?" She pointed to a blunt looking appendage attached to an unrecognizable blob. "No ma'am, that's a tail, it's a marmot." He gave her a charcoal-covered toothy smile; in return she forced one herself and replied "Why don't you take this?" The elezen woman reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook she had been using to keep her grocery list in. "You can keep your drawings in it." Gerik reached for it excitedly. "Boy! Thanks lady!" Another charcoal-covered grin was flashed at her. She sighed and hung her head. "I've told you six times already my name is Elimine." When she raised her head again, he was already halfway to the Blue Badger Gate.</spoiler>

'''Azeyma's Candle''' - 15 
<spoiler>"The festival is here!" A teenaged roegadyn gestured happily and pointed to a large fireworks machine. A group of similarly aged orphans from the acorn orchard gathered around him. Gerik looked up in wonder at the aerial fireworks, they looked like jewels bursting into the sky. "Aderyn, wait up!" The teenaged roegadyn turned around and beckoned for Gerik to join the group. When he caught up, Aderyn put his hand around Gerik's shoulder and they proceeded to walk toward the festival grounds. The motley group of orphans pooled all the gil they could scrounge up with and bought an assortment of fireworks: some red, some yellow, and some blue. Exclamations of joy could be heard from the group. Over the course of four hours, they used up all their fireworks and decided to use the big fireworks machine set in place for the festival instead. "Wanna climb up on the oak atrium for a better view?" Gerik tugged on Aderyn's sleeve. "Sure, you have the best ideas Gerik!" The two climbed onto the roof sat together and smiled in wonder at how much closer the fireworks were. An Azeyma's candle bursted in front of the pair, exploding in a myriad of colors. Just then, Gerik's hand accidentally landed on Aderyn's while readjusting himself out of a cross-legged position. "S-sorry" Gerik was about to pull his hand off Aderyn's, but Aderyn slowly pulled his hand out from under and placed it atop Gerik's. The two made eye contact for a while and Gerik slowly went in for a kiss. Noticing gerik's advance, Aderyn also slowly moved toward the highlander. It lasted but for a few seconds, then the two sat speechless on the roof of the Oak Atrium. Gerik smiled slightly all the while. Aderyn was the first to speak "Y-y'know I'm not like that, I like girls." Gerik frowned and looked off to the side, remaining silent. Aderyn continued "I'm gonna marry a nice elezen girl one day a-and we're gonna have lots of kids." He stood up and took a look another look at Gerik before climbing down the roof. Gerik pulled his knees up to his chest wrapped his arms around them and let out a deep sigh. </spoiler>

'''Logs''' - 17 
<spoiler>“So I just swing at it like that?” Gerik grinned at the Roegadyn he knew as Opyltyl. Opyltyl looked back at him and sighed. “Aye, don’t forget to ask for the elementals’ forgiveness... and do you always have to stick your tongue out when you swing?” Gerik shrugged and swung his hatchet at the tree again. He liked the way the doublet vest he bought looked on him. Of course, he decided he needed to look good for his first day at the Greatloam Growery which is why he spent most of his gil on it, plus it showed off his muscular arms, Gerik liked his arms. Opyltyl left soon after to manage the Growery. A loud yawn left his lips a few hours later and a warm, inviting-looking patch of grass caught his eye. Looking down at his meager stack of logs, he sighed and dropped his hatchet on the ground and started walking over and stretching for a nap. </spoiler>

== '''''Pre-Dalamud Summary''''' ==
Gerik's story starts with a nap. The clearing he had been laying in was warm, breezy, and most importantly, he found his favorite type of moss to lay on, for it was more spongy than the other varieties that lived on the forest floor. His snores could probably be heard from quite a while away. His boss at the Greatloam Growery had been checking up on Gerik more frequently these days since he'd often discovered that throughout the workday Gerik would wander off somewhere and take a nap. Stumbling upon Gerik in the clearing, he pulled out a flyer and a bit of plant based adhesive from his pocket and walked over to the napping Highlander. He fixed the flyer onto Gerik's forehead with the adhesive and walked away shaking his head.

Three bells or so later, Gerik awoke to find a piece of parchment stuck to his forehead, he tried to pull it off, but only succeeded in ripping the portion not directly attached to the glue off. "Shimmersong - Mercenary Company", the flyer read, curious to see what the company was about, he went to Owl's Nest and it was there that he first met Ariel Madaellyn and Yssen Van. After a lengthy interview process that intimidated Gerik to no end, he was accepted. His first mission as a mercenary was with House Mavanix; during the mission a fight broke out, Gerik primarily served as a utility role protecting the young Miyuki Tatsugawa and after the battle was when he first met Kylin Mavanix, albeit unofficially. A week or so later, another Mavanix mission came in. This time a demon named Juravis threatened the group and it needed to be slain. During this mission he met Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn and took a romantic interest in him almost immediately, being one of the few gay Roegadyns he's ever met.

Shortly after this mission, Gerik had a run in with Ysa Van, Yssen's mentally unstable sister. A fight was avoided however, and Gerik stayed in the Corvus Cinis HQ that night with Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn. Unfortunately, Gerik has never seen Sydalyr again after that and figured that Syd was just uninterested in him. Shimmersong's ranks began to bolster; Kylin Mavanix, Seohyun Iyasu and Derrick Rickkon were recruited into Shimmersong. Through Seohyun, he was introduced to Deirdre Ta'ea albeit briefly in her apartment in Limsa Lominsa. Gerik and Kylin never officially met for a while. During their first meeting Kylin and he were fast friends and this is when Gerik made a deal with Kylin to show Kylin his sketchbook in exchange for swimming lessons.

The Aleport beach was where they spent their time swimming. Gerik felt a chemistry between the two but didn't act on it, afraid of being rejected again like with Sydalyr. Gerik ran into Deirdre on the beach one day, She asked Gerik to hold her underwater, he initally said no, but then complied no matter how confused he was.

Ysa attacked Gerik again shortly thereafter in Limsa Lominsa and wanted to know about Deirdre. Gerik hesitated to give her information initially however eventually yielded when she stabbed and dislocated his shoulder. Gerik called for Kylin over the Crystalline pearl and was met with the voice of a compassionate duskwight woman. Eva stitched his wound and took care of the dislocation, since then he's felt a certain debt to her. Soon thereafter, Deirdre and Gerik went into hiding from Ysa on the cliffs of La Noscea under Oschon's Torch, there she began training him in combat, specifically, with the knife.

After Deirdre attacked Gerik out of mental instability, Kylin took Gerik to his sister Elza's cabin in Gridania where they lived for a while. Gerik and Kylin also began a relationship in this time, but it was not to last.

During the Felstar Gala chaos ensued, aether erupted from the very ground beneath the attendees. Kylin was one of the ones that got sucked down into its abyss. Gerik and Deirdre regrouped at Elza's cabin mourning the losses of Kylin and Shurin, neither of them left the cabin or spoke for several days. Deirdre and Gerik fled for the Isles of Umbra when monsters started attacking the city-states because of Dalamud's proximity. It is there they spend their last days before the fall of Dalamud.

== '''''FFXIV: A Realm Reborn''''' ==
----
==== '''''Cycle One''''' ====
'''''Lamb Sausage Is Discovered:'''''
<spoiler>Gerik strained his head to look back at the shore they were only twenty or thirty fulms out, but it felt like forever since they departed the Limsa docks. His rope restraints becoming more uncomfortable, but he tried to relax and enjoy the ride. He didn’t mind this positon, being tied face-down to the back of a Roegadyn; the Roegadyn’s back was comfortably warm.

The Captain of the boat “Ram’s Head” was Iawu, or “Wu” for short; a burly Hellsguard Roegadyn. “You doing all right back there? Don’t be gettin’ seasick or nothin’ or my back is gonna be covered in whatever’s in your stomach.”

Gerik managed a chuckle having relaxed significantly because of Wu’s kindness. Still he strained to look at Limsa Lominsa, trying to look for a blue haired Elezen. He thought he caught a glimpse of her for a second, but it was just what looked like a muscular man’s long blue wig blowing off in the sea breeze.

The waves rocked the boat back and forth, Wu seemed to know exactly how to steer a ship through choppy waters; it was sort of nice despite the thunder and lightning emanating from the sky above them.

“H-Hey.” Wu tensed up all of a sudden. “What’s that?”

Gerik snapped his attention from Limsa’s docks, to the horizon. Nothing. “What’s what?”

Wu looked back at Gerik sternly. “I know for a fact that I didn’t pack no lamb sausage in the back of my pants this mornin’.”
“Well.. the rocking.. and you’re so warm..” Gerik trailed off.

Wu grinned, “S’all right, I know how it is being a man.. Just don’t go drizzlin’ me with your baby gravy, I paid a lot for these pants.”

Some Bells Later –

Gerik opened his eyes from a nap, surprised by the bleakness of the sky, Dalamud seemed to glow stranger than usual. “Must be starting soon.”

Wu nodded. “I think we might be far enough from the impact zone now, but I’ll keep pressing further.”

Gerik squinted at Dalamud, “Hey, Wu, look at that..”

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. Nothing too out of the ordinary. “Look at what now?”

Gerik flashed a wide grin at Wu. “You don’t have a lamb sausage down your pants anymore”

Wu smiled, rolled his eyes, and turned back to the wheel. “Boy, and it only took a few bells to do so!”

To their left a large splash erupted, a few passengers on the ship ran to look at the commotion. When they realized that it was a fragment of Dalamud, they fled for cover below the bridge. More fragments came flying their way, most hitting the water far away. Gerik breathed a sigh of relief.

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. “What the – Are those wings?”

Gerik gripped Wu’s torso. “It’s coming closer.”

In an instant the giant wyrm was overhead and seemed to be en route to Limsa.

“You’d best hold on tight, Gerik.” Wu braced himself against the ship’s rail.
A massive wave took hold of the ship and with a fierce speed smashed it into the Procession of Terns. Luckily when the ship was destroyed Wu managed to wedge himself between the railing and the walkway of the procession with Gerik still affixed to his back. Wu himself had a small plank of wood impaled through his left calf, Gerik got off mostly unscathed save various cuts and bruises. Wu had been knocked unconscious by one of the ship’s support beams.

Gerik looked over at the direction in which the massive wyrm flew. “Deirdre...”
</spoiler>

'''''New Beginnings'''''
<spoiler>It had been a week since the tidal wave hit Limsa Lominsa. People were still looking and grieving for loved ones. A few rays of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the first rays anyone had seen in days. Gerik had been holed up in Iawu’s home in Limsa Lominsa. It was a long week.

“You’ll be alright laying here Wu?” Gerik touched Wu’s leg gingerly. He had just rebandaged the wound.

“Aye, that pretty nurse comes by regularly, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” Wu says with a grin.

“Pretty nurse… ” Gerik thought for a moment. “I thought there was only a MALE midlander nurse that came by here? You never told me you…”

“You never asked.” Wu finished quickly. “But anyway, you had best go, I know you want to look for Deirdre.” He tossed Gerik a sack of gil. “S’what Deirdre ordered me to give to you.”

Gerik caught the sack, nearly dropping it in the process. “Oh, this is the gil..” He kneeled down and reached into the sack, pulling out whatever could fit in his hand and stuffed it down Wu’s pocket. “For breaking my fall.” Before leaving, he flashed Iawu a small grin.

---
Gerik pulled the mint green scarf over his chin as he began his journey outside of Limsa Lominsa taking only a moment to glance back at the battered city-state as the wind billowed.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Two''''' ====

'''''Can you Even Lift?'''''
<spoiler>"So, moving on then, do you have any weaknesses?"

"Hmmm, well I don't like getting stung by bees, if that's what you mean." Gerik shifted uncomfortably in the ash chair. "Oh! Also I haven't really tasted honey that much previously."

His elezen interviewer grimaced, unsure what to do with his responses. "Uhh.. so do you have any previous experience with beekeeping?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I used to get stung by bees a lot, that's how I know I don't like it." Rolling up his left sleeve, he pointed to an area on his arm where a bee had stung him. "I think this was the most recent, a few years ago maybe."

She stared blankly. "I just... I don't think you're qualified. But we don't have any other applicants, so I guess you're hired? Wait, you can lift at least one of those hives right?"

"Easily, probably." He looked through the window behind her at the wooden crate-looking hive.

"Oh, would you mind demonstrating, just for proof?" She turned around to fetch him some protective gear but was confused to find out that he'd left the shack, probably because of his impatient expectancy to demonstrate himself competent at the job.

She heard yelling coming from outside and immediately knew what had happened. He had tried to pick up an already populated hive.</spoiler>

'''''Honey Straight from the Hive'''''
<spoiler>"Just draw the bowstring back like this, and hold it. Hold your breath and take in your surroundings. Keep the scene in your mind. You may let go now, slowly." Calloused fingers touched the highlander's shoulder. "You've done well today, keep practicing."

Gerik looked confusedly in reciprocation and released the string just as she had told him. "But I didn't shoot anything."

"Ah, but you did. You just don't know it yet." The elderly elezen woman patted his head of hair. "You young people are so impatient nowadays."

"Hm.. Well ok. Same time tomorrow then?" He handed her a satchel that jingled with the sound of glass.

Her eyes widened as she opened the satchel. "Oh goody, my favorite, honey straight from the hive." She smacked her lips, "And how creative, you left part of the honeycomb in the jar. Momma's got to buy some toast to enjoy this with!" She tapped her chin with her bony fingers. "Yes, same time tomorrow. By the way, where did you get your bow, it's very, how do you say, unique?"

"I actually found it when looking for a friend.. Up in Mor Dhona. I guess someone dropped it or something." He handed he the bow, figuring that she wanted to see it for a better inspection.

She delivered a loud slap. "A dead man's bow?! What were you thinking?! Her nostrils flared as she exhaled.

Gerik recoiled after her slap and rubbed his stinging bicep, "Oww...that hurt."

She knocked on the bow, "Such an odd material wouldn't you say? Definitely not wood, some sort of stone, perhaps? Still, at least it's a longbow, wouldn't want a man like you to be using a sissy miqo'te shortbow." She chuckled at her comment bemusedly. "Hell maybe I would have ripped this bow out of some poor sap's dying hands too!"
</spoiler>

'''''"BZZZZZ"'''''
<spoiler>“The... bee goes Bzzzzzz?” Gerik raises an eyebrow at Iawu. “Is that… is that me getting stung on the ass?”

Iawu let out a hearty laugh. “Aye, was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Gerik stifled a laugh by biting his tongue, trying to appear serious. “W-well how couldn’t I? It’s just there… in the open, you even used the crack in the book as my buttcrack, what kind of kids book is this anyway?”

Iawu flipped through the pages of another copy and answered rather pointedly. “It’s an alphabet book, B is for Bee, D’you think it’s any good?”

After looking at his illustrated ass from every angle one could possibly imagine with a book, Gerik shifted his gaze back at Iawu whilst cracking a grin. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that story about me and the Honey Yard. And I didn’t get stung on the ass, I got stung on the uh… my...” Gerik furrowed his brows, thinking. “This thingy!” He points to his tailbone.

Iawu shrugged. “Close enough!” He took a seat and began flipping through the book again. “What sound d’you reckon an imp makes?”

Gerik’s face shifted from pensive to dumbfounded over a period of tics. “How’s this?” Gerik tucked his hands under his armpits and flapped imaginary imp wings. “SKREE SKREE!”

Iawu continued staring, even after Gerik’s sound effects. “Wow… I gotta say, that was… that was awful.”

Gerik crossed his arms. “Well you do it then.”

Iawu set the book on the table adjacent to his seat and got up, briefly adjusting his glasses. He brings his hands up to shoulder height and begins flapping them furiously. “TIIII, TIIII!” He stopped suddenly when he caught a glimpse of an old woman staring at them through the window.

“I-I was going to offer you some popotoes… but I think I’ll give them to that harlot next door instead…” The old woman chewed her lower lip for a while before adjusting her bra and walking away.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Three''''' ====
'''''Men's Underwear'''''
<spoiler>The rain left Gerik's hair like dew covered grass. He hadn't expected how enjoyable it would be to work at the honey yard. Despite a painful start, he quickly learned the practice of beekeeping, and in fact, he enjoyed it immeasurably. He ran his hand through his hair before starting to harvest the honey from a nearby hive. Thoughts of several years ago flooded his head, mostly of Dalamud. He had always wondered where all the familiar faces that he was so accustomed to seeing went; where was Kylin, where was Deirdre, where was Blade? He plucked a bee out of the honey, it had mistakenly flown in.

Gerik sealed off the jar and headed back inside. "I've got the last batch harvested, should I just deliver this stuff now?" He licked his finger after noticing some vestigial honey lingered.

A red haired wildwood woman lifted her eyes from the paper she had been reading. "Oh my.. You're so very fast, I'd even dare to say you're one of the best workers here." Sauntering over she removed her glasses.

Flashing her a grin and glancing behind himself quickly, he decided "I um.. I think I'll just deliver these."

The wildwood woman eyed him up and down before taking his hand and brought it up to her lips.

Gerik was a rigid plank of wood, he cringed at her advances, but she was his superior. Her tongue was a snake slithering over the finger he had licked prior. "Right um.. I think it's, it's.." Gerik shifted uncomfortably. "Look, the new Lalafell employee is stealing the honey!" As the eleven woman spun around to look outside the window, he took his delivery and ran.

---

"This seems like the place..?" A large Uldahn mansion that had seen better days stood in his path. He took the knocker in his hand, but the door opened before he could bring it down, a sophisticated looking highlander woman met his gaze and answered rather pointedly.

"Baelhyn residence, this is Etienne."

"Oh, ah I'm here for the delivery, yeah?"

"I see. Please bring it this way, and leave your shoes outside, they are filthy."

She led him past the foyer and into the kitchen. What looked like a mansion that would have employed a full retinue of retainers was empty and lonely.

"Please leave it here." Her gloved hand pointed to a countertop, as he approached she began to develop a displeased expression on her face. "When was the last shower you had? Your very smell is causing me to age."

Taken aback by her comment, Gerik paused for an inordinate amount of time before placing the jars on the counter. "Walking from Gridania to Ul'dah isn't a short walk, yeah?"

She seemed to ignore his last comment,"Why, I feel as though I should do the greater community a service and allow you a shower."
"Thanks? I think."

Gerik stood still, still unsure of what transpired. When he snapped back, he realized the woman was already down the hallway.

"You will have to use the master's bathroom, I am afraid the other bathrooms are in disrepair at this moment in time." Producing a plush towel from her right hand, she opened the door to the ornately decorated bathroom and let him inside. "Do not steal anything, I know exactly how many soaps and miscellaneous bath accessories we have." With that she turned on her heel and closed the door behind her, tawny brown hair trailing after.

Gerik removed off his shirt and pants quickly, however he decided to examine the bathroom a little closer, it had been a long while since he'd seen a posh bathroom like this, he eagerly opened all the soaps and sniffed them, and then looked though the drawers. In one he found what looked like a collection men's underwear. He looked behind him making sure Etienne wasn't behind him. Quickly he removed his own underwear and pulled up the one he found; grinning, he modeled for himself in the mirror.

"Ahem."
A well dressed man stood in the doorway.
"My, when the cat is away, the mice will certainly play."
</spoiler>

'''''Men's Underwear Part II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik turned around to catch a glimpse of the man who possessed the assertive baritone voice.
A clean-cut highlander man stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around his waist; sun-kissed skin glowing from the afternoon sun. “So I suppose this is what the menial labor of Eorzea has come to, trying on others’ clothes and doing as they please in another’s house.”

Gerik twiddled his thumbs. “Ah, sorry.. I didn’t mean to-.”
A smirk crossed the noble’s lips, and slowly his mouth distorted as if to hold back laughter, the dam that was his lips eventually gave way and a torrent of laughter followed. Slowly his laughter slackened, Gerik stood dumbfounded at the man throughout the process.

“I’m sorry, you just have no idea how dull these days are; a little excitement is good.” He wiped tears from his eyes. “Usually the only person I ever talk to is Etienne, and I’m quite afraid we’ve run out of things to talk about. Anyway, my name is Issachar, and you are?”

Gerik grinned, happy that the situation didn’t end up with him being arrested. “I’m Gerik, from the Honey Yard, but um.. nice place you got here.”

Issachar nodded and scanned the floor, not seeming to pay attention the latter part of what Gerik said. “So you were going to take a bath, I take it?”

Gerik positioned himself so that he could lean against the sink across the doorway. “Yeah, your assistant kind of dragged me up here.”
“Etienne will definitely do that. She might call me ‘Master’ or what have you, but she’s the real one that runs this estate. But ah, I suppose you don’t need to hear all this, I’ll wait my turn to use the facilities.” With that, he bowed and gently closed the door behind him. “You can keep that underwear by the way!” Issachar projected from the other side of the door.

---

Briefly into his bath, he heard a few knocks on the door. “Mister Gerik, Master Baelhyn wishes to have tea with you after his shower. He has also instructed for me to lay clothes out for you, they are located on the end table outside of this door.”
Smiling at the rhythmic intervals of Etienne’s heels going down the hallway he closed his eyes and soaked in the tub.
</spoiler>

'''''Tea is Served'''''
<spoiler>

Etienne dropped a silver tray laden with a teapot and two teacups abruptly on the table with a loud clank. "Your tea sir." She turned on her heels and walked back to the kitchen.

The two men stared at each other a moment wondering what that minor outburst meant. Issachar broke the silence first. "Forgive her, I assume she's most used to serving nobility. I'm assuming she's taking serving an ah.. how do I say this delicately." Issachar murmured to himself. "Ah, there it is, working class member. She's taking serving a working class member as an affront to her station, or that's what I'm presuming anyway."

Gerik stopped mixing honey into his tea briefly to look back at Issachar. "I can go, if it's making her feel bad, yeah?"

"No, no, you're fine. Hell, for all I know, we might be members of this working class soon, my parents' business ventures haven't been going very well with me at the wheel." Issachar shrugged nonchalantly and sipped at his tea. "I mean, if the state of this house isn't an indicator."

"It's not so bad, I can get you a job at the Honey Yard." Gerik smirked and leaned back in his chair and gestured to the jar of honey sitting on the glass tea table. "It's more difficult than it seems to harvest that."

Issachar feigned a scoff. "Such a lowly position has no place with these noble hands!" When his attempt at a joke failed and Gerik looked more confused than anything, the highborn highlander tried to revive the conversation again. "I uh.. that was my attempt at being humorous, my apologies for offending. Truth be told, I'd enjoy experiencing that."

"You will do no such thing." Etienne's encroaching footsteps alerted the two to her position, she carried a tray of fruit tarts. "You need to consider your parents' legacy, may they rest in peace, before you go off gallivanting with some man you just met a few hours ago, I will not be selling myself off in the streets like those Concern girls." She shot Gerik a deadly look before placing the tray onto the table.

"Well why not? I mean it's good work." Gerik replied, a bit more defensive than he would have liked.

"I am afraid I will not be dignifying that with a response." She crossed her arms and looked away.

Issachar laughed profusely before breaking into a coughing fit. "Look at you two, like an old married couple." He was the only one that chuckled at his own joke. "But I suppose you're right, I do need to attend to business." Issachar fiddled with his cravate. "Tell you what Gerik, why don't make an arrangement where you come by and visit weekly or so?"
</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Four''''' ====

'''''Becoming a Tree'''''
<spoiler>A dapper man stepped out behind an ornate changing screen. "Well, how is it?" He ran his hands over the satiny fabric covering his chest. "I'm not quite so fond of this collar."

"Mister Issachar, it's fine. I hired the best seamstresses at sunsilks, they even embroidered your family crest into it." A silver marmot laid at the cuff of his left sleeve.

"Oh, that's what that is." He ran his fingers over the embroidery. "This is supposed to represent my family's fur trade, yeah?"

Etienne rolled her eyes. "You've been starting to speak like that... like that uncouth delinquent ever since you allowed him to commandeer the guest bedroom."

The royal purple bowtie gleamed like an amethyst as Issachar straightened it. Peering through the mirror at Etienne he smirked. "Be nicer to him, won't you?"

She made a sigh and gave him an acidic look. "Shall I make arrangements for Lady Ardris to escort you? I really wish you didn't invite that crude lummox."

The placid expression on his face broke. He coughed. "You mean for that vile, insipid woman to escort me?"

"We have no choice, we're losing gil, do you want us to be out on the streets?! Putting yourself in a position to marry Lady Ardris is the best shot you have at bringing this family back to the wealth it once knew." With a hand on her hips she turned around biting her lip, she hated mandating things to him.

Looking wistfully at the bird that had just perched itself on the windowsill, Issachar answered, "I suppose you're right." A sigh left his lips. "Say, Etienne, what do you suppose of the idea of you taking over my parents' business. If I recall, you're quite proficient at numbers."

"Well, sure, I graduated top of my class at the old Mavanix Academy. But what do you mean to say?" She spun around on her heel to look at him accusingly. "You're just giving up?"

A dignified gait carried the man over to a sofa where he sat and placed a book onto his lap. "Oh come now, let's not sugarcoat things, we both know the time of my eternal sleep is sooner than later... I've put a lot of thought into this, and I think you should be the rightful leader to my parents' legacy, they always did love you like a daughter, just as I've always loved you as a sister." He tapped the book a few times to break the silence that fell after his declaration, "I've been reading this story, the protagonist dies and wants to be buried with a tree to celebrate the metaphorical union of the cycle of life and death. I'd like to think I could go that way too, so very poetic."

With tears welling in her eyes she delivered a hard backhand to his face. "No more of this talk." She took a tic to compose herself and to wipe the tears from her face. "I'll need to prepare Gerik for this society event should you really wish for him to attend with you."

Issachar nodded, holding the side of his face. "... please do."

---

Several rhythmic knocks alerted Gerik to a prescence on the other side of the bathroom door. He put down the rubber chocobo he had been playing with in the bathtub. "Eh? That you Etienne?"

A muffled reply came from the other side of the door. "I so wish that you would stop speaking in that agrarian elocution you love so dearly. When you come out of there I have a few lessons for you."

"What kind of lessons? Are they going to be painful again?" Gerik looked at the burn mark he had on his palm from grabbing an deceptively hot pan.

"Well my goodness, I had no idea I was living with a little girl, and who grabs a cast iron pan without a potholder anyway?!" She struck the door with her hand.

He could hear her tapping her heels to the floor, she was growing impatient. "Alright, alright, I'm coming." He set the rubber chocobo atop the faucet and drained the water from the bathtub.</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Five''''' ====

'''''Issachar'''''
<spoiler>Issachar collapsed one balmy day in Ul'dah. Everything seemed pleasant enough, his favorite tree in the garden had just grown fruit. Etienne was out conducting business on his behalf, and Gerik was probably out with his Roegadyn friend. It was a shame he'd never gotten to meet this Burgenheim fellow, Gerik told him all about the Roegadyn's enthusiasm for books. Perhaps they could have traded stories. He would concede that he felt jealous of Gerik spending so much time with the man, But it was for the best, they all knew this day would come. Issachar drew up his will just the other week, he had every faith that Etienne would revive his parent's namesake; and Gerik, well, he wanted him to be happy. A percentage was to be skimmed off the top of their profits and sent directly to Gerik, weekly, Etienne was to do this herself; as for the Baelhyn Manor, they were to each own half the rights to the property. it would take a lot of gil to repair things that had fallen to a state of disrepair.

He coughed.

Issachar didn't want to burden them with his inconvenience, it was good that neither of them were home, they could enjoy their time out to the fullest. He stared at the ceiling cursing his ailment, imagining Gerik's skin against his own, his stubble like a cat's tongue running down his chest. And then that first day they had met. He reminisced over the warm honeyed toast they had shared that this morning, honey could certainly only be described as liquid gold. Or even earlier that morning when he spent a good deal of time just happy to be cuddling with the man, his hands intimately embraced around Gerik's chest, he was always so warm, and he loved when Gerik's musk wafted into his nose. Gerik's natural musk was like an open field; it made think him of cobblestones and maybe ash trees, somewhere open and free. Then his vision began to fade, so he closed his eyes. His hearing dulled, so he stopped listening. His breath began to weaken, so he stopped breathing.</spoiler>

'''''Cake'''''
<spoiler>"MY CAKE! WHERE IS IT?!" Etienne tore through the manor like a madwoman. Loud footsteps encroached quickly toward a sleeping Gerik. "DID YOU EAT IT?! DID YOU?!"

He rubbed his eyes lazily and propped himself up on one arm over the sofa. "Ugh.. My brain is telling me you're being way too loud for my hangover right now."

"You did eat it didn't you?! There isn't anything in this house that hasn't been in your mouth at least once!" Her eyes grew large with rancor. "You even ate some of my eye cream! And don't act like I didn't notice, I saw your fingerprints on the patina on the side and there was about a spoonful missing!"

"Hey! It looked like whipped cream, and it was in such a nice little jar!" He sat up, already feeling tense from their constant conflicts ever since he moved in, though lately it had gotten worse.

"Gods, you are one of the most disgusting beings that ever inhabited Hydaelyn! I saved up MOONS for that cake! Not to mention how long it took to get onto the waiting list to even buy it! The Bismarck only makes five of those a year!" Each of her words were punctuated by the stomping sound of her custom made heels. "Well?! Did you eat all of it?!"

"I uh... Nooooo?" Knowing she was right, he scanned the room for the tray it had come in.

"I should have known. You only have about FIVE stomachs in that body of yours." She sighed and pivoted around, "Well, I have a board meeting to attend, but I expect reparations when I return! And clean your room, it looks like the asshole of the Mineral Concern exploded in there!"

A few quick motions of her hands and her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows and her business attire was smoothed over.

As soon as he knew she left the foyer, he trudged over to the kitchen and pulled a little box out of the pantry. Quickly thumbing through the slips of paper, he began to look for a recipe.
</spoiler>

'''''Cake Part II'''''
<spoiler>
Etienne exhaustingly pushed the stained glass door open, she kicked off her heels and continued to walk over to her room. Halfway there she caught a whiff of something heavenly coming from the kitchen. She peeked around the corner and caught sight of Gerik trying to frost what looked like a piece of marmot steak.

His tongue stuck out like an upturned leaf as he paddled icing on with a spoon. Not noticing her peeking in the doorway, he proceeded to apply what looked like wording to the cake. He thought to himself about what happened earlier that day, he had been an ass. He had just been so angry lately. Angry at Etienne, angry at Issachar, but mostly angry at himself. He tried to legibly pipe out "I'm Sorry" on the cake, and mostly achieved legibility. Gerik sighed deeply and looked over at his cake, staring at it a moment before slowly sliding the platter that held the cake to the edge of the counter and dumping it nonchalantly in the trash where all his previous cakes had landed. Leaning against the counter with his back facing Etienne. With a somber look at the trash, Gerik slid to the floor,tucking his knees into his chest.

"You don't need to waste food, you know." Etienne cracked a grin at him. Her hazel eyes looked over the somber looking highlander, he hadn't responded to her remark. "Look, I'm sorry, I've been quite tough on you ever since Issachar took a fancy to you... Well, ever since you first visited really." She tucked a stray piece of tawny hair behind her ear. "It's been tough ever since Mister Baelhyn left, I know."

His eyes had begun to grow glassy. Knowing her stoic analytical nature, he appreciated that she was even trying to make a joke of sorts, but the truth was that he had been incredibly unhappy ever since the death of his lover, Issachar. He nodded through her attempted dialogue with him, but he simply couldn't concentrate.

She sighed and slid onto the the floor next to Gerik, it was covered in flour, but she was beyond the point of caring about her clothes. "You know.. I ordered the cake for the both of us, I wanted us to enjoy it during this tough time. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you." She placed her palm flat on the floor and shifted some flour around.

Without warning, Gerik wrapped his arms around her in an embrace. He buried his tear-streaked face into her shoulder. "N-no, I'm sorry. I just.. I just-"

"I know, I know, I miss him too." She patted him uncomfortably, bodily contact was a pet peeve of hers. Still, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "I think I know something that we can do that would make Issachar happy, I'll be right back." Moments later she returned holding a seed, "I um.. I remember him saying that he wanted to have a tree planted inside his grave. Mind you I don't know what kind of tree this is, but perhaps this will do." Delicately she opened the mans hands and places the seed between his palms. She gave him a half smile before taking a few steps backward. "See to it that you tell that new maid of ours that this mess get attended to."</spoiler>

==== '''''Current''''' ====
(COMING SOON)

== '''''Rumors''''' ==

'''''Common Rumors'''''

*“Aye, that’s the guy I saw at the Bismark, ate nearly 3 plates o’ raw oysters ‘afore passing out in a room at the Mizzenmast.” -Astonished Highlander

*“You remember that one man who came by and chatted me up last week right? Babette told me over linkshell that she just saw him snogging a Roegadyn in the Market Wards, and not a female one! …No, you most certainly cannot watch them Damali!” – Scorned Midlander

*“With a gilded tongue like that, I’m not surprised he’s not got a higher position in society. Don’t even get me started on that nice lookin’ body he’s got.” – Lascivious Roegadyn

*"I heard that guy has a terrible work ethic, sometimes doesn't show up for days! But damn if I can't say no to that smile." - Conflicted Elezen

*"You could probably sell a bridge to that guy, he'll believe whatever you tell him...I guess all looks, no brains? ...Sure was good in bed though." - Disappointed Lalafell

'''''Intermittent Rumors:'''''

*“I heard he grew up at some orphanage in Gridania, why’d ya think his parents would give him up, oooh, maybe he has mental issues, or maybe the moogles brought him to Gridania, or maybe…” – Presumptuous Lalafell

*“The Adventurer’s Guild doesn’t seem to like to hand him leves, supposedly he turns down most of them. Sounds like pure slothfulness to me, what happened to the quality of our adventurers? Back in my day, adventurers weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.” – Elderly Elezen

*"I heard he came into some gil recently, first that rich Mavanix boy, and then that Baelhyn heir.. I bet he's a no-good golddigger!" - Scandalous Elezen

'''''Rare Rumors:''''' 

*“The other week I caught him hanging out with an Ixal near Murmur Rills, looked pretty comfortable with em’. Guess when it comes to friends he don’t discriminate even between beastmen, could probably use that as some damn good blackmail though.” – Scheming Roegadyn

*“You know about those rich aristocrats in Ul’dah right? Apparently that bloke might’ve had some intimate relations with one of them, or one of their sons; whichever, it don’t matter much, anyway it ended sourly. Rarely ventures into Ul’dah now, or at least that’s what I noticed, and I would know! I sell the airship tickets from Gridania!” – Gossipy Elezen

*“Heard his parents might still be alive despite them being off the grid for years. Don’t think he’s interested in trying to locate them though, I think they used to use him just for their benefit and dumped him in Gridania when it got rough.” – Softspoken Midlander

'''''Player Character Rumors (Feel free to add your own!):'''''

* "He is a loyal sort, with a bigger heart than his chest can contain. If you are inquiring after him with intention to harm, I will string you up and flay the flesh from your bones." -[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]

* "I never cared about anyone like I did him. But alas, Nymeia had other plans." -[[Kylin Felstar]]

*

== '''''Affiliations''''' ==

*'''''Shimmersong:''''' Although just recently inducted, he finds the lifestyle of a mercenary suits him due to the high degree of free time it allows between missions.  He's happy to be part of an organization that opposes the Garleans. 

*'''''Crystalline:''''' Kylin gave Gerik his sister's old linkpearl. Gerik feels more comfortable about using it now that he's put faces to voices.

*'''''[[Ariel Madaellyn]]:'''''At their first meeting, Gerik was very much intimidated by Ariel, she holds such an authoritative aura about her.  However he's begun to let his guard down around her and has decided that she's genuinely a nice person. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Yssen Van]]:''''' Very few words have been exchanged between Yssen and Gerik. Previously finding Yssen hypocritical on the topic of his sister and distancing himself between Yssen, he's decided to let the past be the past. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

*'''''[[Kylin Felstar]]:''''' Quite possibly one of the most unexpected friends he's ever had. Kylin didn't turn out to be what Gerik expected a rich entitled heir to be. They had an intense short-lived relationship over a few months; Gerik now believes Kylin is dead due to 5 years of no contact.

*'''''[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]:''''' Deirdre has grown to be Gerik's closest confidant. Despite him not knowing why she often goes out of her way to protect him, he enjoys her company. She's also served as Gerik's mentor of sorts in the art of the dagger. Recently relations between them got more awkward because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Seohyun Iyasu]] :''''' Gerik is unsure of where she disappeared to for a while. He did regard her as a friend despite her questionable flirting. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Eva Ianeira]]:''''' Gerik finds Eva a very pleasant acquaintance. He doesn't know her that well, however she gave him medical attention after his shoulder had been stabbed and he feels indebted to her to a degree. He'd like to get to know the even-tempered duskwight better. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Blade Belisaire]]:''''' Blade has been a sort of recurring acquaintance for Gerik; they first met when Gerik tried to pick him up in a bar. He doesn't know much about the man, except that he's been acting a bit.. off, as of lately. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

*'''''[[Selene Artemis]]:''''' He knows Selene as Blade's girlfriend. The two haven't really gotten to know each other much, but he feels awkward about their relationship because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Kerr V'yen]]:''''' A male miqote he met when assisting in the rehabilitation of Gridania. They have since lost contact, but being that Kerr was the first male miqo'te Gerik has met, Kerr made quite an impression.

== '''''Fan Art''''' ==

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the art done of Gerik, and I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to draw him!

<spoiler>

[[File:GerikMtotoresize.jpeg]]

[[File:GerikDeirdre.jpeg]]

[[File:CJGerik.jpg]]

[[File:Gerik by michialmasy-d67dx5n.png]]

[[File:NNFCD.jpg]]

[[File:GerikPants.png]]

[[File:Gerikcupcake.png]]

[[File:GerikHoney.png]]

</spoiler>

== '''''Annotations''''' ==

'''''The Sketchbook:''''' Since he was young, Gerik has always kept a sketchbook handy, primarily because of his affinity to drawing.  He's gone through quite a lot over the years (13 total) and keeps them in his lodging with the exception of the one being used, which is always kept on his person.  Many of his sketches are of the creatures that live in Eorzea, as well as men he finds attractive.  He's quite private about the contents of his sketchbook, save for those people he trusts the most.  One of the caretakers at the Acorn Orchard got him his first sketchbook, and since then he's been attached to the idea.

*'''''Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to talk to me about planning an RP or something. Either sending me a /tell in game or a PM on the RPC will work. I'm down for most everything, plus Gerik needs more friends!'''''

If you wanted more stuff to read about Gerik, you could check out these pages on TvTropes: [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GentleGiant Gentle Giant], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DumbMuscle Dumb Muscle], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/MenCantKeepHouse Men Can't Keep House], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TheSlacker The Slacker], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GymBunny Gym Bunny], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/StraightGay Straight Gay].

'''''Actor who would Portray Gerik''''': [http://www.thepictureswarehouse.com/d/72483-1/Marco+Dapper+picture+6.jpg Marco Dapper]

'''''Theme Song''''': [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-gXQqtjBjU Lazy Daydream]

Gerik Aston

2013-06-01T18:32:18Z

Gerik: /* Cycle Five */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Gerik Brynn Aston
| image = GerikAVARef.png
| imagewidth = 300
| caption =
| title = The Zephyr
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Gridania
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Guardian
| stat_1_value = Menphina, the Lover
| stat_2 = Age
| stat_2_value = 26 (Post Dalamud)
| stat_3 = Nameday
| stat_3_value = 26th Sun of the 6th Astral Moon
| stat_4 = Orientation
| stat_4_value = Homosexual
| stat_5 = Occupation
| stat_5_value = Beekeeper
}}

== '''''Basic Info''''' ==

''Gerik is a laid-back, charismatic highlander and can usually be seen with a smile on his face. He tries hard to avoid as much responsibility as possible (save for those causes he deems worth fighting for), not because he’s lazy, per se, he just wants to feel like he has the freedom to do what he wants, when he wants. Feeling his bare feet in the grass or the cool breeze that blows through the Twelveswood are some of his greatest pleasures.''

== '''''Appearance''''' ==

[[File:GerikRedClothes400.png|right|]]

'''''Height:'''''

:6 fulms, 6 ilms - he is a bit taller than most Highlanders. 

'''''Weight:'''''

:243 ponz – Gerik is a bit bulky in terms of muscle. He attributes his physique to good genes as he doesn't really do anything consciously to retain or build muscle. 

'''''Body:'''''

:Gerik is well-built and defined having somewhat of a gymnast's build. Having worked for a short time at the Greatloam Growery in [[Gridania]] assisted in the development of muscle as well as his normal ability to retain his physique has ensured that Gerik is somewhat of a prime specimen of desire for the opposite sex.. or in his case, the same sex. He thinks his best attributes are probably his chest and arms. 

'''''Complexion:'''''

:Tanned, bronzed skin covers Gerik's body. He used to have a few scars, but since he's been cohabiting with Deirdre she's returned his skin to its original condition. He has a symmetrical tattoo on his face, a simple design comprised of six white lines. 

'''''Hair:'''''

:Gerik normally crops his hair very close to the scalp. He's considered growing it out however he generally doesn't like when his hair grows long enough to touch his ears. If he let it grow out, its natural color would be one of a darker burgundy or maroon. A moderate amount of stubble grows on his jawline, normally Gerik doesn't bother to trim it everyday, opting to trim it once every three days or so. Starting at his belly button, Gerik has a light dusting of hair that leads down to his genital region, sometimes he shaves it off, other times not. 

'''''Fashion:'''''

:Shirtless is the way to go for Gerik. He finds that it provides the most freedom in terms of everyday activities, and he also likes to feel the breeze around him. However in situations where a shirt of some sort is necessary, he'll tend to use some sort of lightweight, breathable fabric. He also has a set of clothing for more formal events, he thinks that the wedge cap from the set makes him looks less intimidating. In downtime alone, Gerik can be seen in normally just his underwear, or a set of pants and shoes. 

== <div style="text-align: left;">'''''Personality''''' ==

[[File:GerikAVA.png|left]]

Due to Gerik's odd upbringing, he still remains a child at heart. More than anything he wants to be liked and to have people he can trust and rely on. He's very social and trusts people very easily due to this, however at the same time he's also afraid to let people get too close for the fear of others hurting him. Others might perceive him as being gullible and a bit slow and they'd probably be right. He never had a 'good' education, so in that regard he's not quite so bright. During his time spent at Gridania he's learned a little about how to cultivate plants, which plants have medicinal properties to them, and which plants are safe to eat, in addition to a bunch of other assorted knowledge about plants and creatures within the forest. Many would describe Gerik as 'lucky', sometimes things happen to him with little to no effort on his part, or he gets something accomplished in a very unorthodox manner.

Despite him not being a 'Forestborn,' he thinks he's earned the trust of the local Gridanians enough for them to treat him as one. He's spent a lot of his time in the Twelveswood, even going as far as to camp in the canopies of the trees at night. When on these extended camping trips he usually spends most of his time napping, or observing the happenings within the forest, his employers are generally not pleased as he may not come in to work for a few days or more. His favorite haunt is the White Willow near Camp Emerald Moss.

'''''Family''''': 
Gerik's mother and father were trading merchants, often travelling between every city-state. His surname, Aston, comes from his mother's maiden name and its midlander origins come from the words "East", and "tun", or the settlement to the east of a main village near the ash trees. Eirika, Gerik's mother, was daughter to a former Ala Mhigan noble house. His father, Ganun, was a commoner, and as such, Eirika was never quite satisfied being married to him. Their son, Gerik is 3/4 Highlander and 1/4 Midlander (from his mother's side).

'''''Personality Traits:'''''

*Charismatic

*Hedonistic

*Absent-Minded

*Clumsy

*Slothful

*Athletic

*Trusting

*Jovial

*Messy

*Warm

*Slow-Witted

*Lucky

'''''Talents:'''''

*Socialization

*Wilderness Survival

*Singing (Singing voice is based off John Martin, please ignore the electronic background music [http://youtu.be/RLaSjeCFnlE] [http://youtu.be/-yg3dLEDWqs] [http://youtu.be/-bt94yKsKHQ])

*Sketching 

*Tracking/Hunting 

*Stealth 

 

'''''Likes:''''' 

*The Twelveswood

*Riding Airships

*Freedom

*Gossip

*Fireworks 

'''''Favorite Food:''''' 

*Raw Oyster

'''''Favorite Color:''''' 

*A bit undecided, definitely either blue or green though.

'''''Favorite Creature:'''''

*Apkallus

 

'''''Dislikes:''''' 

*Snooty condescending people

*The Ul’dahan “gil makes the world go round” mentality

*People who disrespect the Twelveswood

*Being used

*Books and Reading

 

'''''Fears:''''' 

*Feeling obligated to a lot of responsibility

*Becoming incapacitated, or otherwise less mobile 

*Losing peoples' favor 

 

----

=== '''''Demeanor:''''' ===

Gerik tends to take a flippant approach to the world, that is, everything but a few select things are not taken quite as seriously as they should be, he also comes off as an optimist. Some of his favorite pasttimes are conversing and meeting new people. His charismatic and charming nature make acquiring friends a simple task, however he’s not one to sugarcoat things, instead preferring to be blunt and openly disagree should a point he feels is wrong manifest. In fact, due to his blunt nature, sometimes inappropriate comments may be blurted out. Despite this, Gerik tries hard to be as good-natured and kindhearted as possible.

[[File:GerikLayDown2.png|right]]
 

'''''Quirks:''''' 

*Has a very large appetite, can usually be seen snacking if there is nothing more pressing to attend to, nobody really knows how he stays in shape, not even Gerik.

*Gerik is quite sloppy; he strategically packs his bag every morning, his strategy for packing is to take a bunch of stuff strewn on the floor of his room and haphazardly dump it into his bag.

*Finds Roegadyn men absolutely endearing, he entertains the idea of a cuddly Roegadyn, and likes it, '''a lot'''.

 

----

== '''''History:''''' ==

'''''Childhood''''' 

:Gerik hails from Ala Mhigo. His parents worked as traveling merchants selling and trading wares from one city-state to another. His mother sang to crowds in an effort to increase sales and forced Gerik to do the same once he was old enough.  During the time of the Garlean invasion, Gerik and his parents were in Gridania. Due to Gerik being a child at the time, they decided it would be safer for them to travel since he would be a burden and abandoned him in Gridania. There, he was raised in the Acorn Orchard with other Gridanian children. During his time growing up, he spent a lot of time in the forest basking in its beauty and enjoying the company of the creatures that are native to the Twelveswood. 

'''''Adolescency''''' 

:At the age of adolescency, Gerik decided he should find something meaningful to do with his life and repay the debt he felt he owed to Gridania, and since he's had a sizeable amount of prior experience with a bow (hunting) as well as the practice of tracking prey and remaining unseen; thus he began training more seriously in the art of archery with aspirations to become a member of the God's Quiver (he also dabbled a bit in the art of lances thinking he might be able to join the Wood Wailers, as well as conjury at the Stillglade Fane, however he dismissed these ideas once he realized he couldn't possibly attempt to join all three factions).  

'''''Adulthood''''' 

:However it was not to be; he was not accepted into the God's Quiver on reasons that are still unknown to him, instead they referred him to someone referred to as the "Godsbow." After much listening to Jehantel's songs and using them as a basis for study, he's slowly been increasing his repertoire of songs. Still, he prefers to not perform in public as he's a bit self-conscious. Gerik is currently looking into alternative ways to assist Gridania's cause due to his inability to assist the God's Quiver.  His previous employment history was that of a simple lumberjack for the Botanist's Guild in Gridania. Prior to Dalamud, he found employment with the Shimmersong mercenaries, their headquarters residing in Owl's Nest; he finds the region of Coerthas breathtaking. Presently, he volunteers at the Honey Yard and lives in Ul'dah.
 
----

'''Dreadful Cacaphony''' - 0 
<spoiler>"Ugh." A young highlander woman sighed. "Ganun it it's crying again honestly how can one get her beauty rest with that dreadful cacaphony going on." She rolled over and slapped the highlander male lying adjacent to her. "Wake up and deal with it!" Ganun grunted in defeat and rolled out of bed. He exasperatingly sighed "Yes dear." Ganun coddled the newborn all the while sporting his trademark scowl; eventually the child eased up and fell asleep. He walked back to bed and fell asleep. Morning came and he woke up to his wife Eirika coddling the newborn almost maternally, a trait he thought she never possessed; however his thought was interrupted when she screeched. "You know my womanhood will never be the same because of you the only good thing you've brought me is a larger set of breasts!" She gazed down at her ample cleavage admiring herself. She turned to face Ganun who just awoke. "Ganun darling shouldn't we name this abomination?" She gestured almost disgustingly at the infant. "Yes yes I suppose we should" Ganun replied. After a bell of deliberation, Eirika had a thought. "Ganun why not just combine our names and be done with this nonsense, all this thinking will give me wrinkles; so how does 'Gerik' sound? I think it it's just marvelous, of course it contains more of my name seeing as I'm the important one." She turned around and began to admire her cleavage again. "Yes, I suppose Gerik it is then." He smiled slightly at the newborn, quite possibly the first smile he had in years.</spoiler>

'''Fish & Desperation''' - 4 
<spoiler>"What is that dreadful smell; it smells like fish and desperation!" Eirika held her nose shut with her index finger and thumb. Ganun sighed and said slowly. "Dear we are in Limsa Lominsa trying to sell wares... right now we are in the fish market. Fish. Market." Eirika brushed her hair out of her face and stuck her nose up. "Ganun I do believe it is your turn to supervise Derrick." He sighed. "It's Gerik dear, and yes bring him to me." Ganun replied scowling at his wife. "Yeah, whatever." Eirika shrugged as she was applying more lipstick. "Zarik get over here this iiiinstant!" However the young child did not appear. Eirika cleared her throat and shrieked "Merik!" "Do you mean to tell me you lost our child?" Ganun inquired with the same scowl that was ever present on his face. She replied coolly, "frankly Ganun, I can't be held responsible, for you should have been paying more attention to him. What kind of father are you anyway?!" She adjusted her skirt in such a manner so that it would reveal more of her upper thigh. "But fine, have it your way, I'll go search for the little cretin." She discovered the toddler playing with two fish that probably fell off a cart during transport; two merchant-looking men were next to him offering him various other seafood to play with. "Hi bitch!" the young Gerik exclaimed happily. "You just called me what?!" Eirika's face turned red with anger. "tha-tha's what my new f'rends said your name was e'rlier." He gestured to the two merchants. The merchants stood up visibly embarrassed, we didn't mean it miss we apologi-.” Just then Eirika delivered a quick backhand to both of the merchants faces. She picked up young Gerik before he could crawl off anywhere else and stormed off. She looked down at the toddler and noticed he was holding a rothlyt oyster, she slapped it out of his hands. "No we do not touch anything that looks like a vagin-!" Ganun interrupted her. "Eirika I've prepared our stall. Are you ready?" "Really Ganun, do you have to ask, I was born ready." She flashes an almost sinister grin and brushes some hair out of her face. "But before we begin..." She fashioned a rope attached to the stall as a leash for the toddler and proceeded to arrange her clothes so that they were more revealing. When she was ready she began to sing. </spoiler>

'''Sweet Child''' - 7 
<spoiler>"C'mmere Gerik! Eirika said sternly. "Ok mommy!" Gerik jumped off a stool and ran to her eagerly. "Yes, such a sweet child... now drink this!" Eirika handed him a cup with a strange smelling liquid inside. Gerik looked up at her with a suspicious expression but drank from the clay cup anyway. Moments later, everything seemed to blur together and he passed out on the floor. Eirika turned around "Ganun did you get the man I asked for?" She pulled her hair into an updo. "Yes dear, I did." Ganun opened the door to let a highlander man into their inn room in gridania. "There's your payment... now go! Work! We've discussed the design already." Eirika gestured at Ganun to pay the man to which he obliged. The man pulled out tattooing supplies which he held in a bag and began tattooing the young highlander with the same tattoo his mother had on her face, its significance was unclear; however the highlander tattooist accepted tattooing as part of a highlander tradition and simply did his job and didn't ask questions. When he finished he simply bowed and took his leave. "Now we can find him later darling... I do hope that makes you feel better about this." She twisted a lock of hair around her finger. "Now let's go" Ganun nodded and replied sullenly. "Our wares are packed and are outside already." He looked down at the ground. "Oh that's simply wonderful, now carry this!" He grunted as she tossed a bag of her clothes into his arms. The two highlanders exited the gridanian inn room and left to embark on their mercantile journey to Ul'dah.</spoiler>

'''Something Naughty''' - 10 
<spoiler>Holding a roll of paper in one hand and a stick of charcoal held between his teeth, Gerik began to climb a young tree in the Twelveswood. The cool breeze felt good against his skin. It had been three years since his parents disappeared. He touched the tattoo on his face almost nostalgicly; reflecting for a moment, but just a moment because it got interrupted by him expelling the charcoal from his mouth. "What to draw today?" he thought to himself. Thoughts ran through his head of possible ideas, but he eventually settled on a fluffy marmot on the grass below. "Guess it's another marmot today." Slowly he used the charcoal to render his masterpiece. When he was done, he climbed back down and headed back to the acorn orchard. "Oh my isn't this lovely it's an uh. imperial warship, or maybe it's an uh a pair of woman's bloomers..." The orphanage worker strained to see what exactly it was that Gerik drew. She turned the paper horizontally and vertically but could make no sense of what it was. "Is that something naughty?" She pointed to a blunt looking appendage attached to an unrecognizable blob. "No ma'am, that's a tail, it's a marmot." He gave her a charcoal-covered toothy smile; in return she forced one herself and replied "Why don't you take this?" The elezen woman reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook she had been using to keep her grocery list in. "You can keep your drawings in it." Gerik reached for it excitedly. "Boy! Thanks lady!" Another charcoal-covered grin was flashed at her. She sighed and hung her head. "I've told you six times already my name is Elimine." When she raised her head again, he was already halfway to the Blue Badger Gate.</spoiler>

'''Azeyma's Candle''' - 15 
<spoiler>"The festival is here!" A teenaged roegadyn gestured happily and pointed to a large fireworks machine. A group of similarly aged orphans from the acorn orchard gathered around him. Gerik looked up in wonder at the aerial fireworks, they looked like jewels bursting into the sky. "Aderyn, wait up!" The teenaged roegadyn turned around and beckoned for Gerik to join the group. When he caught up, Aderyn put his hand around Gerik's shoulder and they proceeded to walk toward the festival grounds. The motley group of orphans pooled all the gil they could scrounge up with and bought an assortment of fireworks: some red, some yellow, and some blue. Exclamations of joy could be heard from the group. Over the course of four hours, they used up all their fireworks and decided to use the big fireworks machine set in place for the festival instead. "Wanna climb up on the oak atrium for a better view?" Gerik tugged on Aderyn's sleeve. "Sure, you have the best ideas Gerik!" The two climbed onto the roof sat together and smiled in wonder at how much closer the fireworks were. An Azeyma's candle bursted in front of the pair, exploding in a myriad of colors. Just then, Gerik's hand accidentally landed on Aderyn's while readjusting himself out of a cross-legged position. "S-sorry" Gerik was about to pull his hand off Aderyn's, but Aderyn slowly pulled his hand out from under and placed it atop Gerik's. The two made eye contact for a while and Gerik slowly went in for a kiss. Noticing gerik's advance, Aderyn also slowly moved toward the highlander. It lasted but for a few seconds, then the two sat speechless on the roof of the Oak Atrium. Gerik smiled slightly all the while. Aderyn was the first to speak "Y-y'know I'm not like that, I like girls." Gerik frowned and looked off to the side, remaining silent. Aderyn continued "I'm gonna marry a nice elezen girl one day a-and we're gonna have lots of kids." He stood up and took a look another look at Gerik before climbing down the roof. Gerik pulled his knees up to his chest wrapped his arms around them and let out a deep sigh. </spoiler>

'''Logs''' - 17 
<spoiler>“So I just swing at it like that?” Gerik grinned at the Roegadyn he knew as Opyltyl. Opyltyl looked back at him and sighed. “Aye, don’t forget to ask for the elementals’ forgiveness... and do you always have to stick your tongue out when you swing?” Gerik shrugged and swung his hatchet at the tree again. He liked the way the doublet vest he bought looked on him. Of course, he decided he needed to look good for his first day at the Greatloam Growery which is why he spent most of his gil on it, plus it showed off his muscular arms, Gerik liked his arms. Opyltyl left soon after to manage the Growery. A loud yawn left his lips a few hours later and a warm, inviting-looking patch of grass caught his eye. Looking down at his meager stack of logs, he sighed and dropped his hatchet on the ground and started walking over and stretching for a nap. </spoiler>

== '''''Pre-Dalamud Summary''''' ==
Gerik's story starts with a nap. The clearing he had been laying in was warm, breezy, and most importantly, he found his favorite type of moss to lay on, for it was more spongy than the other varieties that lived on the forest floor. His snores could probably be heard from quite a while away. His boss at the Greatloam Growery had been checking up on Gerik more frequently these days since he'd often discovered that throughout the workday Gerik would wander off somewhere and take a nap. Stumbling upon Gerik in the clearing, he pulled out a flyer and a bit of plant based adhesive from his pocket and walked over to the napping Highlander. He fixed the flyer onto Gerik's forehead with the adhesive and walked away shaking his head.

Three bells or so later, Gerik awoke to find a piece of parchment stuck to his forehead, he tried to pull it off, but only succeeded in ripping the portion not directly attached to the glue off. "Shimmersong - Mercenary Company", the flyer read, curious to see what the company was about, he went to Owl's Nest and it was there that he first met Ariel Madaellyn and Yssen Van. After a lengthy interview process that intimidated Gerik to no end, he was accepted. His first mission as a mercenary was with House Mavanix; during the mission a fight broke out, Gerik primarily served as a utility role protecting the young Miyuki Tatsugawa and after the battle was when he first met Kylin Mavanix, albeit unofficially. A week or so later, another Mavanix mission came in. This time a demon named Juravis threatened the group and it needed to be slain. During this mission he met Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn and took a romantic interest in him almost immediately, being one of the few gay Roegadyns he's ever met.

Shortly after this mission, Gerik had a run in with Ysa Van, Yssen's mentally unstable sister. A fight was avoided however, and Gerik stayed in the Corvus Cinis HQ that night with Sydalyr Fyrilblyssyn. Unfortunately, Gerik has never seen Sydalyr again after that and figured that Syd was just uninterested in him. Shimmersong's ranks began to bolster; Kylin Mavanix, Seohyun Iyasu and Derrick Rickkon were recruited into Shimmersong. Through Seohyun, he was introduced to Deirdre Ta'ea albeit briefly in her apartment in Limsa Lominsa. Gerik and Kylin never officially met for a while. During their first meeting Kylin and he were fast friends and this is when Gerik made a deal with Kylin to show Kylin his sketchbook in exchange for swimming lessons.

The Aleport beach was where they spent their time swimming. Gerik felt a chemistry between the two but didn't act on it, afraid of being rejected again like with Sydalyr. Gerik ran into Deirdre on the beach one day, She asked Gerik to hold her underwater, he initally said no, but then complied no matter how confused he was.

Ysa attacked Gerik again shortly thereafter in Limsa Lominsa and wanted to know about Deirdre. Gerik hesitated to give her information initially however eventually yielded when she stabbed and dislocated his shoulder. Gerik called for Kylin over the Crystalline pearl and was met with the voice of a compassionate duskwight woman. Eva stitched his wound and took care of the dislocation, since then he's felt a certain debt to her. Soon thereafter, Deirdre and Gerik went into hiding from Ysa on the cliffs of La Noscea under Oschon's Torch, there she began training him in combat, specifically, with the knife.

After Deirdre attacked Gerik out of mental instability, Kylin took Gerik to his sister Elza's cabin in Gridania where they lived for a while. Gerik and Kylin also began a relationship in this time, but it was not to last.

During the Felstar Gala chaos ensued, aether erupted from the very ground beneath the attendees. Kylin was one of the ones that got sucked down into its abyss. Gerik and Deirdre regrouped at Elza's cabin mourning the losses of Kylin and Shurin, neither of them left the cabin or spoke for several days. Deirdre and Gerik fled for the Isles of Umbra when monsters started attacking the city-states because of Dalamud's proximity. It is there they spend their last days before the fall of Dalamud.

== '''''FFXIV: A Realm Reborn''''' ==
----
==== '''''Cycle One''''' ====
'''''Lamb Sausage Is Discovered:'''''
<spoiler>Gerik strained his head to look back at the shore they were only twenty or thirty fulms out, but it felt like forever since they departed the Limsa docks. His rope restraints becoming more uncomfortable, but he tried to relax and enjoy the ride. He didn’t mind this positon, being tied face-down to the back of a Roegadyn; the Roegadyn’s back was comfortably warm.

The Captain of the boat “Ram’s Head” was Iawu, or “Wu” for short; a burly Hellsguard Roegadyn. “You doing all right back there? Don’t be gettin’ seasick or nothin’ or my back is gonna be covered in whatever’s in your stomach.”

Gerik managed a chuckle having relaxed significantly because of Wu’s kindness. Still he strained to look at Limsa Lominsa, trying to look for a blue haired Elezen. He thought he caught a glimpse of her for a second, but it was just what looked like a muscular man’s long blue wig blowing off in the sea breeze.

The waves rocked the boat back and forth, Wu seemed to know exactly how to steer a ship through choppy waters; it was sort of nice despite the thunder and lightning emanating from the sky above them.

“H-Hey.” Wu tensed up all of a sudden. “What’s that?”

Gerik snapped his attention from Limsa’s docks, to the horizon. Nothing. “What’s what?”

Wu looked back at Gerik sternly. “I know for a fact that I didn’t pack no lamb sausage in the back of my pants this mornin’.”
“Well.. the rocking.. and you’re so warm..” Gerik trailed off.

Wu grinned, “S’all right, I know how it is being a man.. Just don’t go drizzlin’ me with your baby gravy, I paid a lot for these pants.”

Some Bells Later –

Gerik opened his eyes from a nap, surprised by the bleakness of the sky, Dalamud seemed to glow stranger than usual. “Must be starting soon.”

Wu nodded. “I think we might be far enough from the impact zone now, but I’ll keep pressing further.”

Gerik squinted at Dalamud, “Hey, Wu, look at that..”

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. Nothing too out of the ordinary. “Look at what now?”

Gerik flashed a wide grin at Wu. “You don’t have a lamb sausage down your pants anymore”

Wu smiled, rolled his eyes, and turned back to the wheel. “Boy, and it only took a few bells to do so!”

To their left a large splash erupted, a few passengers on the ship ran to look at the commotion. When they realized that it was a fragment of Dalamud, they fled for cover below the bridge. More fragments came flying their way, most hitting the water far away. Gerik breathed a sigh of relief.

Wu turned around to look at Dalamud. “What the – Are those wings?”

Gerik gripped Wu’s torso. “It’s coming closer.”

In an instant the giant wyrm was overhead and seemed to be en route to Limsa.

“You’d best hold on tight, Gerik.” Wu braced himself against the ship’s rail.
A massive wave took hold of the ship and with a fierce speed smashed it into the Procession of Terns. Luckily when the ship was destroyed Wu managed to wedge himself between the railing and the walkway of the procession with Gerik still affixed to his back. Wu himself had a small plank of wood impaled through his left calf, Gerik got off mostly unscathed save various cuts and bruises. Wu had been knocked unconscious by one of the ship’s support beams.

Gerik looked over at the direction in which the massive wyrm flew. “Deirdre...”
</spoiler>

'''''New Beginnings'''''
<spoiler>It had been a week since the tidal wave hit Limsa Lominsa. People were still looking and grieving for loved ones. A few rays of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the first rays anyone had seen in days. Gerik had been holed up in Iawu’s home in Limsa Lominsa. It was a long week.

“You’ll be alright laying here Wu?” Gerik touched Wu’s leg gingerly. He had just rebandaged the wound.

“Aye, that pretty nurse comes by regularly, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” Wu says with a grin.

“Pretty nurse… ” Gerik thought for a moment. “I thought there was only a MALE midlander nurse that came by here? You never told me you…”

“You never asked.” Wu finished quickly. “But anyway, you had best go, I know you want to look for Deirdre.” He tossed Gerik a sack of gil. “S’what Deirdre ordered me to give to you.”

Gerik caught the sack, nearly dropping it in the process. “Oh, this is the gil..” He kneeled down and reached into the sack, pulling out whatever could fit in his hand and stuffed it down Wu’s pocket. “For breaking my fall.” Before leaving, he flashed Iawu a small grin.

---
Gerik pulled the mint green scarf over his chin as he began his journey outside of Limsa Lominsa taking only a moment to glance back at the battered city-state as the wind billowed.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Two''''' ====

'''''Can you Even Lift?'''''
<spoiler>"So, moving on then, do you have any weaknesses?"

"Hmmm, well I don't like getting stung by bees, if that's what you mean." Gerik shifted uncomfortably in the ash chair. "Oh! Also I haven't really tasted honey that much previously."

His elezen interviewer grimaced, unsure what to do with his responses. "Uhh.. so do you have any previous experience with beekeeping?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I used to get stung by bees a lot, that's how I know I don't like it." Rolling up his left sleeve, he pointed to an area on his arm where a bee had stung him. "I think this was the most recent, a few years ago maybe."

She stared blankly. "I just... I don't think you're qualified. But we don't have any other applicants, so I guess you're hired? Wait, you can lift at least one of those hives right?"

"Easily, probably." He looked through the window behind her at the wooden crate-looking hive.

"Oh, would you mind demonstrating, just for proof?" She turned around to fetch him some protective gear but was confused to find out that he'd left the shack, probably because of his impatient expectancy to demonstrate himself competent at the job.

She heard yelling coming from outside and immediately knew what had happened. He had tried to pick up an already populated hive.</spoiler>

'''''Honey Straight from the Hive'''''
<spoiler>"Just draw the bowstring back like this, and hold it. Hold your breath and take in your surroundings. Keep the scene in your mind. You may let go now, slowly." Calloused fingers touched the highlander's shoulder. "You've done well today, keep practicing."

Gerik looked confusedly in reciprocation and released the string just as she had told him. "But I didn't shoot anything."

"Ah, but you did. You just don't know it yet." The elderly elezen woman patted his head of hair. "You young people are so impatient nowadays."

"Hm.. Well ok. Same time tomorrow then?" He handed her a satchel that jingled with the sound of glass.

Her eyes widened as she opened the satchel. "Oh goody, my favorite, honey straight from the hive." She smacked her lips, "And how creative, you left part of the honeycomb in the jar. Momma's got to buy some toast to enjoy this with!" She tapped her chin with her bony fingers. "Yes, same time tomorrow. By the way, where did you get your bow, it's very, how do you say, unique?"

"I actually found it when looking for a friend.. Up in Mor Dhona. I guess someone dropped it or something." He handed he the bow, figuring that she wanted to see it for a better inspection.

She delivered a loud slap. "A dead man's bow?! What were you thinking?! Her nostrils flared as she exhaled.

Gerik recoiled after her slap and rubbed his stinging bicep, "Oww...that hurt."

She knocked on the bow, "Such an odd material wouldn't you say? Definitely not wood, some sort of stone, perhaps? Still, at least it's a longbow, wouldn't want a man like you to be using a sissy miqo'te shortbow." She chuckled at her comment bemusedly. "Hell maybe I would have ripped this bow out of some poor sap's dying hands too!"
</spoiler>

'''''"BZZZZZ"'''''
<spoiler>“The... bee goes Bzzzzzz?” Gerik raises an eyebrow at Iawu. “Is that… is that me getting stung on the ass?”

Iawu let out a hearty laugh. “Aye, was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Gerik stifled a laugh by biting his tongue, trying to appear serious. “W-well how couldn’t I? It’s just there… in the open, you even used the crack in the book as my buttcrack, what kind of kids book is this anyway?”

Iawu flipped through the pages of another copy and answered rather pointedly. “It’s an alphabet book, B is for Bee, D’you think it’s any good?”

After looking at his illustrated ass from every angle one could possibly imagine with a book, Gerik shifted his gaze back at Iawu whilst cracking a grin. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that story about me and the Honey Yard. And I didn’t get stung on the ass, I got stung on the uh… my...” Gerik furrowed his brows, thinking. “This thingy!” He points to his tailbone.

Iawu shrugged. “Close enough!” He took a seat and began flipping through the book again. “What sound d’you reckon an imp makes?”

Gerik’s face shifted from pensive to dumbfounded over a period of tics. “How’s this?” Gerik tucked his hands under his armpits and flapped imaginary imp wings. “SKREE SKREE!”

Iawu continued staring, even after Gerik’s sound effects. “Wow… I gotta say, that was… that was awful.”

Gerik crossed his arms. “Well you do it then.”

Iawu set the book on the table adjacent to his seat and got up, briefly adjusting his glasses. He brings his hands up to shoulder height and begins flapping them furiously. “TIIII, TIIII!” He stopped suddenly when he caught a glimpse of an old woman staring at them through the window.

“I-I was going to offer you some popotoes… but I think I’ll give them to that harlot next door instead…” The old woman chewed her lower lip for a while before adjusting her bra and walking away.
</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Three''''' ====
'''''Men's Underwear'''''
<spoiler>The rain left Gerik's hair like dew covered grass. He hadn't expected how enjoyable it would be to work at the honey yard. Despite a painful start, he quickly learned the practice of beekeeping, and in fact, he enjoyed it immeasurably. He ran his hand through his hair before starting to harvest the honey from a nearby hive. Thoughts of several years ago flooded his head, mostly of Dalamud. He had always wondered where all the familiar faces that he was so accustomed to seeing went; where was Kylin, where was Deirdre, where was Blade? He plucked a bee out of the honey, it had mistakenly flown in.

Gerik sealed off the jar and headed back inside. "I've got the last batch harvested, should I just deliver this stuff now?" He licked his finger after noticing some vestigial honey lingered.

A red haired wildwood woman lifted her eyes from the paper she had been reading. "Oh my.. You're so very fast, I'd even dare to say you're one of the best workers here." Sauntering over she removed her glasses.

Flashing her a grin and glancing behind himself quickly, he decided "I um.. I think I'll just deliver these."

The wildwood woman eyed him up and down before taking his hand and brought it up to her lips.

Gerik was a rigid plank of wood, he cringed at her advances, but she was his superior. Her tongue was a snake slithering over the finger he had licked prior. "Right um.. I think it's, it's.." Gerik shifted uncomfortably. "Look, the new Lalafell employee is stealing the honey!" As the eleven woman spun around to look outside the window, he took his delivery and ran.

---

"This seems like the place..?" A large Uldahn mansion that had seen better days stood in his path. He took the knocker in his hand, but the door opened before he could bring it down, a sophisticated looking highlander woman met his gaze and answered rather pointedly.

"Baelhyn residence, this is Etienne."

"Oh, ah I'm here for the delivery, yeah?"

"I see. Please bring it this way, and leave your shoes outside, they are filthy."

She led him past the foyer and into the kitchen. What looked like a mansion that would have employed a full retinue of retainers was empty and lonely.

"Please leave it here." Her gloved hand pointed to a countertop, as he approached she began to develop a displeased expression on her face. "When was the last shower you had? Your very smell is causing me to age."

Taken aback by her comment, Gerik paused for an inordinate amount of time before placing the jars on the counter. "Walking from Gridania to Ul'dah isn't a short walk, yeah?"

She seemed to ignore his last comment,"Why, I feel as though I should do the greater community a service and allow you a shower."
"Thanks? I think."

Gerik stood still, still unsure of what transpired. When he snapped back, he realized the woman was already down the hallway.

"You will have to use the master's bathroom, I am afraid the other bathrooms are in disrepair at this moment in time." Producing a plush towel from her right hand, she opened the door to the ornately decorated bathroom and let him inside. "Do not steal anything, I know exactly how many soaps and miscellaneous bath accessories we have." With that she turned on her heel and closed the door behind her, tawny brown hair trailing after.

Gerik removed off his shirt and pants quickly, however he decided to examine the bathroom a little closer, it had been a long while since he'd seen a posh bathroom like this, he eagerly opened all the soaps and sniffed them, and then looked though the drawers. In one he found what looked like a collection men's underwear. He looked behind him making sure Etienne wasn't behind him. Quickly he removed his own underwear and pulled up the one he found; grinning, he modeled for himself in the mirror.

"Ahem."
A well dressed man stood in the doorway.
"My, when the cat is away, the mice will certainly play."
</spoiler>

'''''Men's Underwear Part II'''''
<spoiler>Gerik turned around to catch a glimpse of the man who possessed the assertive baritone voice.
A clean-cut highlander man stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around his waist; sun-kissed skin glowing from the afternoon sun. “So I suppose this is what the menial labor of Eorzea has come to, trying on others’ clothes and doing as they please in another’s house.”

Gerik twiddled his thumbs. “Ah, sorry.. I didn’t mean to-.”
A smirk crossed the noble’s lips, and slowly his mouth distorted as if to hold back laughter, the dam that was his lips eventually gave way and a torrent of laughter followed. Slowly his laughter slackened, Gerik stood dumbfounded at the man throughout the process.

“I’m sorry, you just have no idea how dull these days are; a little excitement is good.” He wiped tears from his eyes. “Usually the only person I ever talk to is Etienne, and I’m quite afraid we’ve run out of things to talk about. Anyway, my name is Issachar, and you are?”

Gerik grinned, happy that the situation didn’t end up with him being arrested. “I’m Gerik, from the Honey Yard, but um.. nice place you got here.”

Issachar nodded and scanned the floor, not seeming to pay attention the latter part of what Gerik said. “So you were going to take a bath, I take it?”

Gerik positioned himself so that he could lean against the sink across the doorway. “Yeah, your assistant kind of dragged me up here.”
“Etienne will definitely do that. She might call me ‘Master’ or what have you, but she’s the real one that runs this estate. But ah, I suppose you don’t need to hear all this, I’ll wait my turn to use the facilities.” With that, he bowed and gently closed the door behind him. “You can keep that underwear by the way!” Issachar projected from the other side of the door.

---

Briefly into his bath, he heard a few knocks on the door. “Mister Gerik, Master Baelhyn wishes to have tea with you after his shower. He has also instructed for me to lay clothes out for you, they are located on the end table outside of this door.”
Smiling at the rhythmic intervals of Etienne’s heels going down the hallway he closed his eyes and soaked in the tub.
</spoiler>

'''''Tea is Served'''''
<spoiler>

Etienne dropped a silver tray laden with a teapot and two teacups abruptly on the table with a loud clank. "Your tea sir." She turned on her heels and walked back to the kitchen.

The two men stared at each other a moment wondering what that minor outburst meant. Issachar broke the silence first. "Forgive her, I assume she's most used to serving nobility. I'm assuming she's taking serving an ah.. how do I say this delicately." Issachar murmured to himself. "Ah, there it is, working class member. She's taking serving a working class member as an affront to her station, or that's what I'm presuming anyway."

Gerik stopped mixing honey into his tea briefly to look back at Issachar. "I can go, if it's making her feel bad, yeah?"

"No, no, you're fine. Hell, for all I know, we might be members of this working class soon, my parents' business ventures haven't been going very well with me at the wheel." Issachar shrugged nonchalantly and sipped at his tea. "I mean, if the state of this house isn't an indicator."

"It's not so bad, I can get you a job at the Honey Yard." Gerik smirked and leaned back in his chair and gestured to the jar of honey sitting on the glass tea table. "It's more difficult than it seems to harvest that."

Issachar feigned a scoff. "Such a lowly position has no place with these noble hands!" When his attempt at a joke failed and Gerik looked more confused than anything, the highborn highlander tried to revive the conversation again. "I uh.. that was my attempt at being humorous, my apologies for offending. Truth be told, I'd enjoy experiencing that."

"You will do no such thing." Etienne's encroaching footsteps alerted the two to her position, she carried a tray of fruit tarts. "You need to consider your parents' legacy, may they rest in peace, before you go off gallivanting with some man you just met a few hours ago, I will not be selling myself off in the streets like those Concern girls." She shot Gerik a deadly look before placing the tray onto the table.

"Well why not? I mean it's good work." Gerik replied, a bit more defensive than he would have liked.

"I am afraid I will not be dignifying that with a response." She crossed her arms and looked away.

Issachar laughed profusely before breaking into a coughing fit. "Look at you two, like an old married couple." He was the only one that chuckled at his own joke. "But I suppose you're right, I do need to attend to business." Issachar fiddled with his cravate. "Tell you what Gerik, why don't make an arrangement where you come by and visit weekly or so?"
</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Four''''' ====

'''''Becoming a Tree'''''
<spoiler>A dapper man stepped out behind an ornate changing screen. "Well, how is it?" He ran his hands over the satiny fabric covering his chest. "I'm not quite so fond of this collar."

"Mister Issachar, it's fine. I hired the best seamstresses at sunsilks, they even embroidered your family crest into it." A silver marmot laid at the cuff of his left sleeve.

"Oh, that's what that is." He ran his fingers over the embroidery. "This is supposed to represent my family's fur trade, yeah?"

Etienne rolled her eyes. "You've been starting to speak like that... like that uncouth delinquent ever since you allowed him to commandeer the guest bedroom."

The royal purple bowtie gleamed like an amethyst as Issachar straightened it. Peering through the mirror at Etienne he smirked. "Be nicer to him, won't you?"

She made a sigh and gave him an acidic look. "Shall I make arrangements for Lady Ardris to escort you? I really wish you didn't invite that crude lummox."

The placid expression on his face broke. He coughed. "You mean for that vile, insipid woman to escort me?"

"We have no choice, we're losing gil, do you want us to be out on the streets?! Putting yourself in a position to marry Lady Ardris is the best shot you have at bringing this family back to the wealth it once knew." With a hand on her hips she turned around biting her lip, she hated mandating things to him.

Looking wistfully at the bird that had just perched itself on the windowsill, Issachar answered, "I suppose you're right." A sigh left his lips. "Say, Etienne, what do you suppose of the idea of you taking over my parents' business. If I recall, you're quite proficient at numbers."

"Well, sure, I graduated top of my class at the old Mavanix Academy. But what do you mean to say?" She spun around on her heel to look at him accusingly. "You're just giving up?"

A dignified gait carried the man over to a sofa where he sat and placed a book onto his lap. "Oh come now, let's not sugarcoat things, we both know the time of my eternal sleep is sooner than later... I've put a lot of thought into this, and I think you should be the rightful leader to my parents' legacy, they always did love you like a daughter, just as I've always loved you as a sister." He tapped the book a few times to break the silence that fell after his declaration, "I've been reading this story, the protagonist dies and wants to be buried with a tree to celebrate the metaphorical union of the cycle of life and death. I'd like to think I could go that way too, so very poetic."

With tears welling in her eyes she delivered a hard backhand to his face. "No more of this talk." She took a tic to compose herself and to wipe the tears from her face. "I'll need to prepare Gerik for this society event should you really wish for him to attend with you."

Issachar nodded, holding the side of his face. "... please do."

---

Several rhythmic knocks alerted Gerik to a prescence on the other side of the bathroom door. He put down the rubber chocobo he had been playing with in the bathtub. "Eh? That you Etienne?"

A muffled reply came from the other side of the door. "I so wish that you would stop speaking in that agrarian elocution you love so dearly. When you come out of there I have a few lessons for you."

"What kind of lessons? Are they going to be painful again?" Gerik looked at the burn mark he had on his palm from grabbing an deceptively hot pan.

"Well my goodness, I had no idea I was living with a little girl, and who grabs a cast iron pan without a potholder anyway?!" She struck the door with her hand.

He could hear her tapping her heels to the floor, she was growing impatient. "Alright, alright, I'm coming." He set the rubber chocobo atop the faucet and drained the water from the bathtub.</spoiler>

==== '''''Cycle Five''''' ====

<spoiler>Issachar collapsed one balmy day in Ul'dah. Everything seemed pleasant enough, his favorite tree in the garden had just grown fruit. Etienne was out conducting business on his behalf, and Gerik was probably out with his Roegadyn friend. It was a shame he'd never gotten to meet this Burgenheim fellow, Gerik told him all about the Roegadyn's enthusiasm for books. Perhaps they could have traded stories. He would concede that he felt jealous of Gerik spending so much time with the man, But it was for the best, they all knew this day would come. Issachar drew up his will just the other week, he had every faith that Etienne would revive his parent's namesake; and Gerik, well, he wanted him to be happy. A percentage was to be skimmed off the top of their profits and sent directly to Gerik, weekly, Etienne was to do this herself; as for the Baelhyn Manor, they were to each own half the rights to the property. it would take a lot of gil to repair things that had fallen to a state of disrepair.

He coughed.

Issachar didn't want to burden them with his inconvenience, it was good that neither of them were home, they could enjoy their time out to the fullest. He stared at the ceiling cursing his ailment, imagining Gerik's skin against his own, his stubble like a cat's tongue running down his chest. And then that first day they had met. He reminisced over the warm honeyed toast they had shared that this morning, honey could certainly only be described as liquid gold. Or even earlier that morning when he spent a good deal of time just happy to be cuddling with the man, his hands intimately embraced around Gerik's chest, he was always so warm, and he loved when Gerik's musk wafted into his nose. Gerik's natural musk was like an open field; it made think him of cobblestones and maybe ash trees, somewhere open and free. Then his vision began to fade, so he closed his eyes. His hearing dulled, so he stopped listening. His breath began to weaken, so he stopped breathing.</spoiler>

'''''Cake'''''
<spoiler>"MY CAKE! WHERE IS IT?!" Etienne tore through the manor like a madwoman. Loud footsteps encroached quickly toward a sleeping Gerik. "DID YOU EAT IT?! DID YOU?!"

He rubbed his eyes lazily and propped himself up on one arm over the sofa. "Ugh.. My brain is telling me you're being way too loud for my hangover right now."

"You did eat it didn't you?! There isn't anything in this house that hasn't been in your mouth at least once!" Her eyes grew large with rancor. "You even ate some of my eye cream! And don't act like I didn't notice, I saw your fingerprints on the patina on the side and there was about a spoonful missing!"

"Hey! It looked like whipped cream, and it was in such a nice little jar!" He sat up, already feeling tense from their constant conflicts ever since he moved in, though lately it had gotten worse.

"Gods, you are one of the most disgusting beings that ever inhabited Hydaelyn! I saved up MOONS for that cake! Not to mention how long it took to get onto the waiting list to even buy it! The Bismarck only makes five of those a year!" Each of her words were punctuated by the stomping sound of her custom made heels. "Well?! Did you eat all of it?!"

"I uh... Nooooo?" Knowing she was right, he scanned the room for the tray it had come in.

"I should have known. You only have about FIVE stomachs in that body of yours." She sighed and pivoted around, "Well, I have a board meeting to attend, but I expect reparations when I return! And clean your room, it looks like the asshole of the Mineral Concern exploded in there!"

A few quick motions of her hands and her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows and her business attire was smoothed over.

As soon as he knew she left the foyer, he trudged over to the kitchen and pulled a little box out of the pantry. Quickly thumbing through the slips of paper, he began to look for a recipe.
</spoiler>

'''''Cake Part II'''''
<spoiler>
Etienne exhaustingly pushed the stained glass door open, she kicked off her heels and continued to walk over to her room. Halfway there she caught a whiff of something heavenly coming from the kitchen. She peeked around the corner and caught sight of Gerik trying to frost what looked like a piece of marmot steak.

His tongue stuck out like an upturned leaf as he paddled icing on with a spoon. Not noticing her peeking in the doorway, he proceeded to apply what looked like wording to the cake. He thought to himself about what happened earlier that day, he had been an ass. He had just been so angry lately. Angry at Etienne, angry at Issachar, but mostly angry at himself. He tried to legibly pipe out "I'm Sorry" on the cake, and mostly achieved legibility. Gerik sighed deeply and looked over at his cake, staring at it a moment before slowly sliding the platter that held the cake to the edge of the counter and dumping it nonchalantly in the trash where all his previous cakes had landed. Leaning against the counter with his back facing Etienne. With a somber look at the trash, Gerik slid to the floor,tucking his knees into his chest.

"You don't need to waste food, you know." Etienne cracked a grin at him. Her hazel eyes looked over the somber looking highlander, he hadn't responded to her remark. "Look, I'm sorry, I've been quite tough on you ever since Issachar took a fancy to you... Well, ever since you first visited really." She tucked a stray piece of tawny hair behind her ear. "It's been tough ever since Mister Baelhyn left, I know."

His eyes had begun to grow glassy. Knowing her stoic analytical nature, he appreciated that she was even trying to make a joke of sorts, but the truth was that he had been incredibly unhappy ever since the death of his lover, Issachar. He nodded through her attempted dialogue with him, but he simply couldn't concentrate.

She sighed and slid onto the the floor next to Gerik, it was covered in flour, but she was beyond the point of caring about her clothes. "You know.. I ordered the cake for the both of us, I wanted us to enjoy it during this tough time. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you." She placed her palm flat on the floor and shifted some flour around.

Without warning, Gerik wrapped his arms around her in an embrace. He buried his tear-streaked face into her shoulder. "N-no, I'm sorry. I just.. I just-"

"I know, I know, I miss him too." She patted him uncomfortably, bodily contact was a pet peeve of hers. Still, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "I think I know something that we can do that would make Issachar happy, I'll be right back." Moments later she returned holding a seed, "I um.. I remember him saying that he wanted to have a tree planted inside his grave. Mind you I don't know what kind of tree this is, but perhaps this will do." Delicately she opened the mans hands and places the seed between his palms. She gave him a half smile before taking a few steps backward. "See to it that you tell that new maid of ours that this mess get attended to."</spoiler>

==== '''''Current''''' ====
(COMING SOON)

== '''''Rumors''''' ==

'''''Common Rumors'''''

*“Aye, that’s the guy I saw at the Bismark, ate nearly 3 plates o’ raw oysters ‘afore passing out in a room at the Mizzenmast.” -Astonished Highlander

*“You remember that one man who came by and chatted me up last week right? Babette told me over linkshell that she just saw him snogging a Roegadyn in the Market Wards, and not a female one! …No, you most certainly cannot watch them Damali!” – Scorned Midlander

*“With a gilded tongue like that, I’m not surprised he’s not got a higher position in society. Don’t even get me started on that nice lookin’ body he’s got.” – Lascivious Roegadyn

*"I heard that guy has a terrible work ethic, sometimes doesn't show up for days! But damn if I can't say no to that smile." - Conflicted Elezen

*"You could probably sell a bridge to that guy, he'll believe whatever you tell him...I guess all looks, no brains? ...Sure was good in bed though." - Disappointed Lalafell

'''''Intermittent Rumors:'''''

*“I heard he grew up at some orphanage in Gridania, why’d ya think his parents would give him up, oooh, maybe he has mental issues, or maybe the moogles brought him to Gridania, or maybe…” – Presumptuous Lalafell

*“The Adventurer’s Guild doesn’t seem to like to hand him leves, supposedly he turns down most of them. Sounds like pure slothfulness to me, what happened to the quality of our adventurers? Back in my day, adventurers weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.” – Elderly Elezen

*"I heard he came into some gil recently, first that rich Mavanix boy, and then that Baelhyn heir.. I bet he's a no-good golddigger!" - Scandalous Elezen

'''''Rare Rumors:''''' 

*“The other week I caught him hanging out with an Ixal near Murmur Rills, looked pretty comfortable with em’. Guess when it comes to friends he don’t discriminate even between beastmen, could probably use that as some damn good blackmail though.” – Scheming Roegadyn

*“You know about those rich aristocrats in Ul’dah right? Apparently that bloke might’ve had some intimate relations with one of them, or one of their sons; whichever, it don’t matter much, anyway it ended sourly. Rarely ventures into Ul’dah now, or at least that’s what I noticed, and I would know! I sell the airship tickets from Gridania!” – Gossipy Elezen

*“Heard his parents might still be alive despite them being off the grid for years. Don’t think he’s interested in trying to locate them though, I think they used to use him just for their benefit and dumped him in Gridania when it got rough.” – Softspoken Midlander

'''''Player Character Rumors (Feel free to add your own!):'''''

* "He is a loyal sort, with a bigger heart than his chest can contain. If you are inquiring after him with intention to harm, I will string you up and flay the flesh from your bones." -[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]

* "I never cared about anyone like I did him. But alas, Nymeia had other plans." -[[Kylin Felstar]]

*

== '''''Affiliations''''' ==

*'''''Shimmersong:''''' Although just recently inducted, he finds the lifestyle of a mercenary suits him due to the high degree of free time it allows between missions.  He's happy to be part of an organization that opposes the Garleans. 

*'''''Crystalline:''''' Kylin gave Gerik his sister's old linkpearl. Gerik feels more comfortable about using it now that he's put faces to voices.

*'''''[[Ariel Madaellyn]]:'''''At their first meeting, Gerik was very much intimidated by Ariel, she holds such an authoritative aura about her.  However he's begun to let his guard down around her and has decided that she's genuinely a nice person. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Yssen Van]]:''''' Very few words have been exchanged between Yssen and Gerik. Previously finding Yssen hypocritical on the topic of his sister and distancing himself between Yssen, he's decided to let the past be the past. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

*'''''[[Kylin Felstar]]:''''' Quite possibly one of the most unexpected friends he's ever had. Kylin didn't turn out to be what Gerik expected a rich entitled heir to be. They had an intense short-lived relationship over a few months; Gerik now believes Kylin is dead due to 5 years of no contact.

*'''''[[Deirdre Ta'ea]]:''''' Deirdre has grown to be Gerik's closest confidant. Despite him not knowing why she often goes out of her way to protect him, he enjoys her company. She's also served as Gerik's mentor of sorts in the art of the dagger. Recently relations between them got more awkward because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Seohyun Iyasu]] :''''' Gerik is unsure of where she disappeared to for a while. He did regard her as a friend despite her questionable flirting. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Eva Ianeira]]:''''' Gerik finds Eva a very pleasant acquaintance. He doesn't know her that well, however she gave him medical attention after his shoulder had been stabbed and he feels indebted to her to a degree. He'd like to get to know the even-tempered duskwight better. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Blade Belisaire]]:''''' Blade has been a sort of recurring acquaintance for Gerik; they first met when Gerik tried to pick him up in a bar. He doesn't know much about the man, except that he's been acting a bit.. off, as of lately. He hasn't seen him in 5 years.

*'''''[[Selene Artemis]]:''''' He knows Selene as Blade's girlfriend. The two haven't really gotten to know each other much, but he feels awkward about their relationship because of a night they may or may not have spent together. He hasn't seen her in 5 years.

*'''''[[Kerr V'yen]]:''''' A male miqote he met when assisting in the rehabilitation of Gridania. They have since lost contact, but being that Kerr was the first male miqo'te Gerik has met, Kerr made quite an impression.

== '''''Fan Art''''' ==

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the art done of Gerik, and I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to draw him!

<spoiler>

[[File:GerikMtotoresize.jpeg]]

[[File:GerikDeirdre.jpeg]]

[[File:CJGerik.jpg]]

[[File:Gerik by michialmasy-d67dx5n.png]]

[[File:NNFCD.jpg]]

[[File:GerikPants.png]]

[[File:Gerikcupcake.png]]

[[File:GerikHoney.png]]

</spoiler>

== '''''Annotations''''' ==

'''''The Sketchbook:''''' Since he was young, Gerik has always kept a sketchbook handy, primarily because of his affinity to drawing.  He's gone through quite a lot over the years (13 total) and keeps them in his lodging with the exception of the one being used, which is always kept on his person.  Many of his sketches are of the creatures that live in Eorzea, as well as men he finds attractive.  He's quite private about the contents of his sketchbook, save for those people he trusts the most.  One of the caretakers at the Acorn Orchard got him his first sketchbook, and since then he's been attached to the idea.

*'''''Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to talk to me about planning an RP or something. Either sending me a /tell in game or a PM on the RPC will work. I'm down for most everything, plus Gerik needs more friends!'''''

If you wanted more stuff to read about Gerik, you could check out these pages on TvTropes: [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GentleGiant Gentle Giant], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DumbMuscle Dumb Muscle], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/MenCantKeepHouse Men Can't Keep House], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TheSlacker The Slacker], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GymBunny Gym Bunny], [http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/StraightGay Straight Gay].

'''''Actor who would Portray Gerik''''': [http://www.thepictureswarehouse.com/d/72483-1/Marco+Dapper+picture+6.jpg Marco Dapper]

'''''Theme Song''''': [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-gXQqtjBjU Lazy Daydream]