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Kage Kiryuu

2021-07-03T21:45:22Z

Kage: Retired

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Late-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
| stat_4 = Availability
| stat_4_value = Retired unless specifically asked for pick up.
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

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=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he would die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?" - Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always used to see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"
::* "He ran with his tail behind his legs. Typical of his ilk."

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]
File:Kagebashfulbynokomento.png| Commission of Kage by [http://twitter.com/nokomento Nokomento].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).
RP character has now been made an alt. Main is mainly PVE on Primal Data Center.

Kage Kiryuu

2019-08-06T17:31:37Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Late-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
| stat_4 = Availability
| stat_4_value = Retired unless specifically asked for pick up. Not a Lalafell after -reasons-
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he would die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?" - Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always used to see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"
::* "He ran with his tail behind his legs. Typical of his ilk."

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]
File:Kagebashfulbynokomento.png| Commission of Kage by [http://twitter.com/nokomento Nokomento].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).
RP character has now been made an alt. Main is mainly PVE on Primal Data Center.

Kage Kiryuu

2018-05-18T13:25:46Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Late-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
| stat_4 = Availability
| stat_4_value = Contact through RPC PMs, tumblr, or twitter
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he would die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?" - Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always used to see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"
::* "He ran with his tail behind his legs. Typical of his ilk."

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]
File:Kagebashfulbynokomento.png| Commission of Kage by [http://twitter.com/nokomento Nokomento].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

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==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).
RP character has now been made an alt. Main is mainly PVE on Primal Data Center.

Kage Kiryuu

2018-02-06T15:18:20Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
| stat_4 = Availability
| stat_4_value = Contact through RPC PMs, tumblr, or twitter
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?" - Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always used to see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"
::* "He ran with his tail behind his legs. Typical of his ilk."

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]
File:Kagebashfulbynokomento.png| Commission of Kage by [http://twitter.com/nokomento Nokomento].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).
RP character has now been made an alt. Main is mainly PVE on Primal Data Center.

Kage Kiryuu

2018-02-06T14:02:44Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
| stat_4 = Availability
| stat_4_value = Contact through RPC PMs, tumblr, or twitter
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]
File:Kagebashfulbynokomento.png| Commission of Kage by [http://twitter.com/nokomento Nokomento].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).
RP character has now been made an alt. Main is mainly PVE on Primal Data Center.

Kage Kiryuu

2017-10-04T21:22:25Z

Kage: /* In Character Images and Art */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]
File:Kagebashfulbynokomento.png| Commission of Kage by [http://twitter.com/nokomento Nokomento].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:Kagebashfulbynokomento.png

2017-10-04T21:21:25Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2017-10-04T21:02:03Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
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Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2017-07-17T15:35:40Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

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=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

'''Ossy:''' - (To be featured in the future - Yol)

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

'''Brachy:''' - ... did Kage...? Yes, during his travels the Lalafell was able to save and endear himself to a young baby Brachiosaur. Kage return him when he gets older, and far too large for even his zoo's habitat. When the hunt died, one of the large leaves that the Lalafell used to hide his presence appeared too appetizing for the starving baby.

'''Otto:''' - It's not normal for Kage to be near such wet places so often but after barely surviving the long/short voyage on a trade expedition, it was with great amusement how the two became fast friends. Wearing his trademark and loved beret, Kage found himself in the company of an adorable creature with its own head adornment. Soon enough, it became evident that the young otter had been trailing the Lalafell with an agenda. It became clear as the otter enthusiastically gesticulated at Kage's beret while taking off its hat. With a large grin on his face, Kage and the otter, Otto, traded hats. Of course, Kage still wears a beret. He has far too many of them.

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2017-03-27T02:17:58Z

Kage: added art

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png| Commission of Kage carving hair accessories by [http://castanicatheart.tumblr.com/ castanicatheart/Highberry]

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:Kagewoodcarvingbycastanicatheart.png

2017-03-27T02:15:33Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2017-03-06T03:37:39Z

Kage: /* In Character Images and Art */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png|Sultansworn Kage by [[Mtoto Wamoto]]
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:PLD kage by Mtoto Wamoto.png

2017-03-06T03:35:15Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2017-02-15T17:00:49Z

Kage: /* Mounts */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

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=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - A large red-feathered lanner bird whose first meeting with Kage was having the bird pluck Kage out of the way of danger only to make the Lalafell fear for his life.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2017-02-15T16:50:11Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand. He has recently relocated to the city-state of his birth. He needs his friends.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten. He hopes she likes the gifts he made her, for this time, almost all of them were completely made with his own hands.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

==Past Acquaintances==
Kage hasn't talked to these people in a long time. Perhaps they have grown apart. Perhaps they can rekindle past bonds. As it is, it is possible they have moved on in their lives.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves. He found comfort and solace in the arms of doing what he'd found he liked doing; protecting people. He took on a temporary bouncer position at a courtesan house where he came to know them all pretty well, especially its founder Hestia Redde.

==The North==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, Hestia, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew without a doubt that she would perish and that witnessing it would lead Kage's final destruction. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects and mourn. He would follow on to keep his promise, taking on a more active role in the courtesans' protections.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Eventually, it came to light that the Nameless Warrior was actually Gharen Wolfsong. His long recovery aided by Delial meant that Kage would return to a less chaotic adventure. Finding Haruko Kokojo at his doorstep. It was obvious that Kage was enamored by Haru. Meeting with Roen and her friend Gideon North, Kage decided on how to address and speak with Haruko.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Kage has moved back to Thanalan, having an apartment in The Goblet.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
As a past Sultansworn and Brass Blade, Kage is known to those in Ul'dah. You might have heard of his previous career in frequenting The Grindstone or when he was employed for the city-state or the Sultana.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

'''Spiro:''' - a large red-feathered lanner bird.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2017-02-13T19:50:11Z

Kage: /* Friends */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same type that nearly wrecked Kage? One thing is for certain, Kage is absolutely head over beret smitten.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2017-02-13T14:31:44Z

Kage: /* In Character Images and Art */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

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=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. It's pretty obvious that though Kage does not know nearly enough about Haruko as he wishes, the Lalafell is quite smitten. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same habit that nearly wrecked Kage?

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He is one of those people who continues to reach out to his friends, no matter what has passed or how much time has gone by. I am thankful that I am one of them." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
::* "Does he know me? We friends? Nae. But I bet I can get him tae buy me a the finest bottle under the bar!" - [[Brynnalia Callae]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].
File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png| Commission of Kage being an embarrassed nervous wreck by [https://twitter.com/Larchxas_XIV Seiryuuden].
</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:NervousWreckKageByseiryuuden.png

2017-02-13T14:30:25Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2016-10-20T21:12:21Z

Kage: /* Screenshots of IC Scenes */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. It's pretty obvious that though Kage does not know nearly enough about Haruko as he wishes, the Lalafell is quite smitten. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same habit that nearly wrecked Kage?

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [[Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2016-10-20T21:07:03Z

Kage: /* In Character Images and Art */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. It's pretty obvious that though Kage does not know nearly enough about Haruko as he wishes, the Lalafell is quite smitten. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same habit that nearly wrecked Kage?

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].
File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg| Commission of Kage's first encounter... by [http://hasuyawwn.tumblr.com Hasuyawwn].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:KageBirbHasuyawwn.jpg

2016-10-20T21:06:12Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2016-10-05T22:05:24Z

Kage: Added a friend

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

'''[[Haruko Kokojo]]:''' Kage first met her while she served in the Immortal Flames. He was quite shocked to later meet her as a Brass Blade and with shorter hair. Even later, she tracked him to his residence in the Lavender Beds and insisted on speaking with him. It's pretty obvious that though Kage does not know nearly enough about Haruko as he wishes, the Lalafell is quite smitten. But what Roen told him worries him just a little. Is he falling for the same type? The same habit that nearly wrecked Kage?

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2016-06-23T12:24:02Z

Kage: Adding the drabbles I've written for Monty, Oak and Arturius

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

[http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/117695448625/kages-pets Drabbles for Monty, Oak and Arturius].
=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2016-03-30T16:01:49Z

Kage: Undo revision 166857 by Kage (talk)

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2016-03-30T15:59:32Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

<tabs>
<tab name= "Relationships">
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

</tab>
<tab name ="History">
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

</tab>
<tab name= "Most Recent Events">
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

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<tab name="Mounts, Pets, Companions">
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk
</tab>
<tab name="Rumors">
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]
</tab>

<tab name= "Art, Images and Screenshots">
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>
</tab>
</tabs>

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2016-02-19T04:21:52Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Mid-20s
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = North America Pacific (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
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Kage Kiryuu

2016-02-19T04:11:25Z

Kage: /* Screenshots of IC Scenes */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.
File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png|Kage, Delial, Kiht Jakky and U'roh confront the Warrior...
File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png|The Warrior's Armor and Helm come off... It's Gharen...!

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:NamelessWarriorisherBrother.png

2016-02-19T04:10:09Z

Kage:

File:NamelessWarriorShowdown.png

2016-02-19T04:08:06Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2016-02-19T04:05:54Z

Kage: /* In Character Images and Art */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].
File:KageRestZoo.png|Art commission of Kage and his companions by [http://nokocchi.tumblr.com Nokocchi].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:KageRestZoo.png

2016-02-19T04:04:43Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2016-02-08T19:37:19Z

Kage: /* Close to IC but not IC */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2016-02-08T18:56:39Z

Kage: /* Close to IC but not IC */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]
File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png|Commission of a 'What if they could all sit at a table for a dinner night'? Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimdsong, and Gideon North by [http://lunie-junk.tumblr.com Lunie-Junk]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:WhatIfTablebyLunie-junk.png

2016-02-08T18:54:28Z

Kage: What if they could all get along for a dinner night at the same table? Left to Right: Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimdsong, and Gideon North.

What if they could all get along for a dinner night at the same table?

Left to Right: Osric Melkire, Kasrjin Khadai, Kage Kiryuu, Coatleque Crofte, Franz, Gharen Wolfsong, Roen Deneith, Delial Grimdsong, and Gideon North.

Kage Kiryuu

2016-01-25T22:48:37Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Lir|Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

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==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Kage Kiryuu

2016-01-25T22:47:20Z

Kage:

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Cooking
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

'''[[Carina Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage doesn't quite know it's official, aka Ilwe put a ring on it, but Carina is Ilwe's mate and she's carrying a child from their bond! Of course Carina is family! How could he resist loving someone who loves Ilwe so? Who cares for Ilwe as much as Ilwe cares for them? Kage can't resist that's for sure. Also, her cooking is scrumptious. Absolutely delicious.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas as well as Gridania. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin. Kage has fulfilled one part of the tasks but his path is still not yet fully closed. The trail of many small aether paths to somewhere in the Thanalan worries him.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - The owlet who spontaneously found its perch atop Kage's head one day and just followed him since.

'''Lexa:''' - The red panda.

'''Tobias:''' - Hawk

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

Coatleque Crofte

2015-12-28T06:40:26Z

Kage: /* Rumors */

=General=

{{Infobox-character
| name = Coatleque Crofte
| image = Coatleque_Crofte_3.jpg
| imagewidth = 275px
| imageheight =
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ul'Dah
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Early to mid 20's
| stat_2 = Marital Status
| stat_2_value = It's Complicated
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Paladin & Sultansworn
| stat_4 = Height/Weight
| stat_4_value = 5 fulms, 6 ilms / 150 ponz
| stat_5 = Nicknames
| stat_5_value = "CC", Lady Crofte
}}
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 700px;">
'''Coatleque Crofte''' (pronounced cottl-ee-kay) is, by her knowledge, the only remaining survivor of her fishing village from the north. Her life has been hard since the Calamity, but she is slowly working to piece it back together and raise her station in the city of coin.

She tries to appear and act like a proper lady at all times. Often found in and around Ul'dah as she is unable to stray very far due to her duties as a Sultansworn, she is a chronic workaholic and will almost always be found in uniform. She considers this to be her only proof of station within the city and takes her position very seriously.

While most of the people of Thanalan can easily see her in the role of a knight, to any true noble it would be blatantly clear that she is not of their blood. While on duty she acts with the utmost respect and exudes the authoritative presence one would expect of a paladin. When off-duty, she will always be dressed well with her hair made up, often with a hat of some sort. Her nights are spent quietly observing the myriad adventurers that pass through the city on the off chance she may hear rumors related to whatever investigations she has pending.

She had been shy in her past as the responsibility of the Gallantry was first laid upon her, but since then she has grown into the position. She is not one to begin a conversation, but she can certainly end one if it is called for. Her speech is slow and practiced unless something has upset or distracted her. In these moments her Ala'Mhigan origins will show through.

Her involvement with a Monetarist nobleman, Jameson Taeros, was well known through the city at one point. She has been rather withdrawn from the public lately, and the man himself has not been seen for some time. Inquiries into the affairs of House Taeros would find that the estate has been recently foreclosed upon.

Coatleque has not been seen in the city much recently. Inquiries to other Sultansworn into her current whereabouts would reveal she has been temporarily reassigned to an outpost in the north, but specific details are not disclosed.
</div>

=Education=
[[File:Coatleque_Crofte_4.jpg|250px|left]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 325px;">
Coatleque did not have any formal education when she arrived in Ul'dah. Being the daughter of a fisherman, she knew how to cook, clean, and gut fish. She spoke with a heavy Ala'Mhighan accent and poorly at that. She was forced to learn quickly how to act and address the nobility, due to circumstances, or else she would not have survived long.

As of now she is able to read, write, and can speak slowly and eloquently as long as she is focused on her speech. She has basic knowledge of a myriad of useless skills which she had to learn, the more important of those being slight of hand and picking simple locks. Anything more than those of typical shackles would be beyond her skill.

The majority of her formal learning is that of swordplay from her training in the Sultansworn Order. While she was certainly not the best of her class, she did excel quickly at it and earned a few nicknames due to her two-handed fighting style that tended to leave her practice mates with sprained wrists.
</div>

=Spirituality=
[[File:Crofte_ByEdda.jpg|250px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
A firm believer in the Twelve, Coatleque relies on them for strength and guidance. She sees the work of their hands in all things around her and is baffled by how blind some people can be in their lack of faith. She is not one to push her beliefs on others even as she makes mention of the Twelve frequently through conversations.

In her past, Llymlaen was the patron of her village, being settled on the shores of Gyr'Abania. Some of her people did adopt Rhalgr as most of Ala'Mhigo would. It was through the faith of her friend Sapphire that she began to trust more in Menphina after she was brought to Ul'dah.

Seeing relationship after relationship either fall apart or end with another dead lover, combined with the loss of her close friend Natalie in the Order, she has taken Rhalgr as her patron. Recent events in her life have made her come to realize she cannot maintain a neutral ground where politics and justice collide. Through the blessings of Rhalgr she would hope to bring about the destruction of the plots of evil men against her new home.

Coatleque is also closely tied to Nymeia, goddess of fate, whom she believes will place portents of things to come in the dreams of those whom are destined to change them.
</div>

=Combat=
[[File:Crofte_combat.jpg|250px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 500px;">
Coatleque has no martial prowess other than that of the sword, her skill thereof being every bit of that which one would expect from the Sultana's Elite guard - though she is no grandmaster. Her style is one of mobility and brute force. She focuses on dodging attacks while exploiting openings in defense, and therefore will not favor a shield in combat. It is rumored that a full on hit from her blade when wielded with two hands is enough to split a wooden shield, or shatter the victim's arm if it is metal. All pure speculation of course, but few would be foolhardy enough to test such.

It is just as well that she has no love of combat and views all life as sacred. She very rarely spars with any live opponents, preferring the safety of a training dummy. If drawn into actual combat, she strikes only to disarm and subdue. If she ever lashes out to kill it would be out of fear for the lives of those in her care, or for her own safety.

Her personal arsenal has been collected over time from various jobs, missions, gifts, and commissions. The most recent addition being the large gilded sword she now carries often which was gifted to her by her paramour Jameson Taeros. She carries it more as a sentimental item while on duty - it has yet to see actual use, though it is a fully-forged and sharpened blade. Other blades she has kept are a long iron spatha when she needs concealment, a standard issue Brass Blade scimitar, a ceremonial cobalt winglet, and her own commissioned blue-steel winglet which was formerly her primary weapon. The last blade she eventually bestowed to Hroch Greyarm in repayment of a personal debt of blood. She has not seen the man since.
</div>

=Healing=
[[File:Cc_hs_croft.png|175px|left]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 300px;">
While it is true that Coatleque has some minor training in Conjuration, she was never very adept at the concept.
She finds it hard to focus, especially in times of stress, which is not a particularly good trait for someone
attempting to heal others. Despite this she 'can' still cast the spells to heal or to even bring one back from
the brink of death. The former is very taxing on her, while the latter will leave her exhausted to the point of
being momentarily incapacitated.

Her ability to use aether is otherwise unaffected. Her Paladin training has shown that she is able to channel the
required aether through herself as if it were second nature. Defensive spells and offensive sword skills she can
use with ease. If she had any sort of affinity it would be in force barriers and other aetherically created shields.
</div>

=Background=
__NOTOC__
[[File:Crofte_pinkdress.jpg|225px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
There was a time when Coatleque was dead-set against speaking of her own background and life before joining the Sultansworn. Even today she is hesitant to share any details with those she does not know. In her line of work, however, she has found there are times when it helps to share certain details to prove she is no better than the criminals she is forced to deal with. People tend to open up slightly when they see each other on common ground.
<hr/>
===Birth and Early Life:===
Coatleque is from a remote fishing village at the Southern tip of Ala'Mhigo, the beaches of Gyr'Abania. Born Florence Fishbane in the year 1557 of the Sixth Astral Era just after the fall of Ala Mhigo, this makes her Garlean by birth alone if not for location. Built on the coast and of little importance, the village eked out a meagre existence far from the city-state itself. She was a typical country girl, the daughter of a fisherman with no special skills or talents. She spent her youth helping her mother cooking, cleaning, and gutting fish for her father. To this day she cannot bear the taste of seafood. When she came of age, her parents began the process of arranging her to be bonded to the miller's son. A quiet life she was honestly looking forward to.

When Dalamund came raining down, a rather large chunk of it fell to the ocean just off the coast of the villiage itself. The resulting tidal wave destroyed the village and swept away a majority of its inhabitants. Those who survived had fled to the old military outpost built into the cliffs just above the shore. Not even a week later, still in mourning, brigands from the mountains came looking to make quick coin off the salvage from the wreckage. Florence watched in horror as her fiancée was killed and cried out which gave away their position. What villagers were left were captured or killed as they tried to flee. She has never forgiven herself for this, which she considers the single greatest mistake of her life.

===Captivity in Ul'dah:===
They were carted off in rags and taken by cover of night to Ul'dah first. The leader of the brigands, Cadmus, was an experienced slaver who knew he could exploit the women and especially Florence for a certain quality she had. She was sold to Dace Korlon, proprietor of the Red Sands - an expensive brothel in one of the less frequented parts of Pearl Lane. There she remained for three long years of forced service as a high-class whore.

She would not have survived her ordeal if not for the kindness of another slave girl, a Miqo'te Seeker called Sapphire due to her deep purple eyes. Sapphire was the longest surviving slave girl at the time and had the Master's favor, being in charge of the other slave girls. She took pity on Florence and often came to her room at night to talk and teach her how to survive. It was Sapphire who gave her the name Coatleque because of her exotic red hair. The purpose being that Florence could pin all the wicked things she had been forced to do on Coatleque, then leave the name behind if the Twelve ever granted her freedom again.

It was Sapphire who taught Coatleque how to read and write, how to speak properly like a lady. How to dress, wear make-up and to look the part. Their clients demanded such from their higher-class girls after all. Sapphire also taught her how to perform simple dances, how to pick locks so they could walk freely at night, and simple tricks of slight-of-hand. The Master expected them to ply their trade to the fullest extent possible, after all, and many a nobleman left with their pockets much lighter than intended.

It was near the end of her imprisonment that Sapphire came to her one night looking very distraught. It seemed she had stolen something from a very influential client. Something she should not have. Despite the Master's insistence that she did well, she feared for her own life and new it was time to leave. Having swiped a key from Dace's room and bribed the guard for the night, she intended to leave and return to her tribe. It was then that she told Coatleque her real name, F'lierre, and the two knew they may never see each other again.

Not one moon after their emotional departure, the Brass Blades descended upon the Red Sands in a false-front raid to 'end slave trafficking'. What Coatleque later found was that F'lierre had stolen a forged signet ring of the house of Ul and the Syndicate was none too happy at its loss. The Blades ransacked the building, set it ablaze, and killed anyone who got in their way. Among the confusion, Coatleque managed to help as many girls as she could escape through the sewers. The next morning many of them saw their first sunrise in years once more as free women.

===Answers in the Shroud:===
This section has not been written yet

===Return to Ul'dah:===
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===Meaning in Service:===
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</div>

=Relationships=
An exhaustive, ALPHABETICAL, list of people that Coatleque knows, how, why, and her reaction to them. If your name is not on this list, it is because I either forgot or have not role-played long enough to form a sufficient opinion yet.
<div style="font: 16px Times New Roman, serif;">
----
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Aaros Anduron|Aaros Anduron]]'''
| ''"In his eyes, I see the potential future of the Order."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Aaros is the youngest son of house Anduron, and perhaps the most idealistic as a result. While his family sees his desire to join the ranks of the Sultansworn as an opportunity for political maneuvering, Aaros takes his decision with the utmost sincerity. Coatleque has seen his kind of idealism before in other young candidates and can only hope he has the will to maintain it where so many others did not.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Alabrous Tane|Alabrous Tane]]'''
| ''"Don't know what I ever saw in him, or why I still think of him."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A thoroughly despicable man and a shadow of Coatleque's past. Their relationship began while she was enslaved by an Ul'dahn pillowhouse. He came around just long enough for her to start to care about him then suddenly disappeared. Coatleque was forced to deal with him again during one of her investigations. She later discovered he was working for Jameson Taeros. Tane was killed by Jaxon Hawk right in front of Coatleque one night at the Quicksand while they were sharing a drink.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Anden Anduron|Anden Anduron]]'''
| ''"If such a man as he can find redemption, I believe anyone can."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Anden is the bastard son of House Anduron, and his behavior has been fitting for such. A cruel, sadistic man who delighted in inflicting misery, he was described as the perfect dog by Jameson Taeros. As such, the man was elevated to an officership in the Brass Blades for a time.

After the murder of Alabrous Tane, Anden sought to take Jaxon Hawk from Coatleque's imprisonment. Even though he had legal grounds for the transfer, Coatleque fought against him when she saw the fear in Jaxon's eyes. Knowing Anden's reputation, and hearing Aaros's pleas, she kept the woman away from him until Tane's murder trial.

At the trial it was revealed that Anden may have abused Jaxon both persoanlly, and with others. Anden fled the trial and murdured Jaxon's friend in the process. He was later taken into custody by the Brass Blades, and Coatleque took Jaxon and Aaros away to hide for their own protection.

Anden was later released under Jameson's orders and quietly sent northward where he disappeared. Weeks after, Coatleque managed to find him when she decided to follow-up on a warning against doing so. She found the man had since turned from his previous path to take up Halone's mantle in his own search for attonement. Chosing to respect his wishes, and allow him to continue his servitude, she has told no one back in Ul'dah of his whereabouts. For all intents, the man is now dead.

It remains to be seen whether or not she made the right choice in sparing him.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Anelia Sadowyn|Anelia Sadowyn, Ser]]'''
| ''"Zealot does not even begin to describe her."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The Azure Falcon of Carteneau Plains, Anelia's history with the Sultansworn was tumultuous at best. Her overzealous pursuit of Monetarist corruption has clashed with the goals of the Order on more than one occasion. Coatleque eventually had to confront her over this and Anelia left the Order soon afterwords to pursue her own goals as a Free Paladin. Since then, the woman has only become more relentless and is prone to overstep her authority to cleanse any perceived corruption even to the point of hunting after Coatleque herself.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Askier Mergrey|Askier Mergrey]]'''
| ''"He'll keep his nose clean, if he knows what's good for him."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An explosives expert and former Garlean operative in Thanalan, Coatleque knows only as much of his past as is revealed by official briefings. She knows he began to turn over a new leaf at some point but suffered a severely traumatic experience when held captive with Roen Deneith. The man was presumed dead around the time of Ishgard's rejoining the alliance. The paladin has seen no reason, personal or otherwise, to contest this claim.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Aya Foxheart|Aya Foxheart]]'''
| ''"I miss her effervescence."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The always lovely bar maid of the Quicksand. The nights she is working just seem to pass too quickly. Her constant kindness towards the Coatleque has caused her to take pause on occasion. She considers her a friend now, more than an acquaintance, and would try to keep her at length from the troubles of the city. The words Aya has offered as well as the quiet tea times they share have allowed Coatleque to relax on occasion and take stock of what is truly important to her.

It has been some time since the two have seen each other as Coatleque is away from the city on orders.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Brynnalia Callae|Brynnalia Callae]]'''
| ''"Why her? How is she trusted over me?"''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A raven-haired former member of the Ala'Mhigan resistance. Coatleque met Miss Callae through Jameson Taeros by which she is employed. They deal with each other as needed though often with opposing goals. Brynnalia seems to be motivated only by money in Coatleque's eyes. This is blessing and a curse as Coatleque knows the woman can probably be bought, but perhaps by the wrong person. They fell out of contact soon after Jameson's disappearance.

Brynnalia eventually contacted Coatleque again after Jameson's re-emergence. The news that she was once again working with Coatleque's 'former' love did not go over very well.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Delial Grimsong]]'''
| ''"First the coeurl lost its claws, and now its fangs."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The Kinslayer, bane of the Ala Mhigan resistance. Coatleque knows almost nothing about this woman personally. Their paths often cross at the hands of others, and typically only when dirty deeds need doing. From what dealings they <i>have</i> had, she is none too impressed with Delial. Anyone with as much bad blood in their history as her is not someone Coatleque is willing to trust so readily. She has gone so far as to deliver the woman into the hands of former resistance members to give them the chance at delivering whatever justice is deserved.

Delial escaped that setup with her life and the two women have made a tentative truce. Neither one fully trusts the other, but they at least recognize that they are not their true enemies.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Edda Eglantine]]'''
| ''"We do not share the same penchant for ripping out one's heart and eating it before them."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | To Coatleque, Lady Eglantine is the only sign of nobility outside of Ul'dah she has had direct contact with. Refined, elegant, the picture of everything Coatleque wanted to be. Until she personally revealed that she was betrothed to the man Coatleque loved. Her cold and emotionless expression through the entire ordeal has made Crofte begin to reconsider her own desires out of life, since she is obviously too passionate to play the same political games.

Since that night, Coatleque has tried to remain professional in Edda's sight. She is still part of a wealthy La Noscean house, and Crofte is still a Sultansworn. She wrote her to warn of pending threats to her life now that Edda is tied to Jameson. Beyond such diplomacy, Coatleque has no further desire to speak with her.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Evangeline Primrose|Evangeline Primrose]]'''
| ''"Somewhere inside that soft, bleeding heart of hers beats the cold, iron heart of a warrior."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Dravanian heretic, Ishgardian exile, and self-proclaimed revolutionary. Evangeline has been a thorn in Coatleque's side since she arrived in Ul'dah. Their relationship has been a string of heated debates separated by shite flinging (quite literally once time). In the end, Coatleque's even-temper seems to have won out as Evangeline's strategy has mellowed some. They have even come so far as to be civil in one anothers' company.

In exchange for her cooperation with a recent investigation, Coatleque has agreed to help train Evangeline in the art of the sword. Something her previous mentor, Gharen Wolfsong, was doing before his untimely disappeareance.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Franz Renatus|Franz]]'''
| ''"It has been so long, I barely remember him."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An apparently Ishgardian mercenary who Coatleque first met when she separated his fist from Natalie Mcbeef's face in the Quicksand. She knows next to nothing of the man personally, but after recent events he seems to be much more docile, even civilized. They have occasionally traded words in the Quicksand but have seen little of each other lately.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Gharen Wolfsong|Gharen Wolfsong]]'''
| ''"I wonder... if his chest is as hard as his face was..."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Free Paladin, and member of the Ala'Mhigan resistance. Coatleque met him first through his sister Roen. A rather private person, in her estimation, their paths do not cross often. She is happy to work with him whenever they do, however. He disappeared rather abruptly after Lazarov's threat to Ul'dah had been dealt with but Coatelque is sure the man can handle himself where ever he has gone.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Gideon North]]'''
| ''"Perhaps one day he may give me the honor of calling him a friend."''
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jameson's now former valet and butler. Coatleque had the displeasure of reinforcing Jameson's dismissal of the man after recent events. Perhaps not so much a friend, she sees him for what he is and can appreciate him as she is a servant herself. In all her dealings with Taeros, Gideon has unwittingly served as a voice on the side who helped to keep her grounded in who she is as the world crumbled around her.

She lost touch with Mister North after Jameson's disappearance. Brynnalia Callae recently let slip that the man was working in or around his employ once more, but Coatleque has yet to confirm such a rumor.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Jameson Taeros|Jameson Taeros]]'''
| ''"I am not sure which of his lies to believe. Those he spoke before, or these he speaks now."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jameson Taeros was at one time a wealthy upstart on the Ul'dahn scene, aligned with Monetarist interests. He is a wildly driven man who is not above stooping to underhanded ways of accomplishing his goals. Yet he is shrewed, intelligent, and always careful that none of his dealings can be traced back to himself.

Coatleque met Jameson through her friend Natalie. Both served the Sultansworn at the time. Natalie was the one who dealt with Jameson's schemes while Coatleque was content to simply follow her orders and assist as necessary to get the job done. Whith Natalie's death, it fell to Coatleque to take up the other role as well. With new purpose, she resolved to take more action befitting her position in the Order rather than being content to sit on the side.

She decided to get closer to the man to spy on him, both for her own interests and for her friend Roen, whom believed he had ties to a woman who was hunting her. She could not keep her emotions separate from her job, however, and Coatleque became enamored with the man as she learned more about him. Over the course of months they grew unexpectedly closer, and he began to trust her with more details of his past. When the time came that she could have taken what she needed and left, she found that she could not betray him.

Coatleque stood with Jameson against the pirate Nero Lazarov. While she always maintained this was done out of duty, her heart would have said otherwise. All plans changed, however, when Osric Melkire led an assult on Jameson's personal estate meaning to kill him. Coatleque stood by her love's side and drew steel against some of her closest friends only to watch in horror as Jameson was shot twice by Melkire. The man disappeared that night with no trace but his last word, 'Banurein.'

The next weeks were spent tracking down any lead she could find as to where Jameson would have gone. His trail led her to Gridania, then Coerthas where she learned he was seen flying to Vylbrand. After arriving back to the islands it was revealed that he was bethrothed to Lady Edda Eglantine. The shock of such betrayal of trust drove her back into Coerthas where she aimed to carry out her official orders so she could return to Ul'dah and continue her own life.

Coatleque has only spoken to Jameson one time since then. While it is clear they still love each other, she is unwilling to challenge his plans or tempt a scandal by interfereing with his betrothal. So she sits in Coerthas, and waits.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Jancis Milburga|Jancis Milburga]]'''
| ''"My dearest friend, and as close to any family as I have left."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Coatleque met Jancis in Gridania just after the Knight had left Ul'dah to take up Conjuration. She was at first a fellow student, though already more advanced, and later became a close friend. Coatleque trusted her and eventually they became like sisters. While Coatleque is busy with her duties in Thanalan, Jancis continues to roam Eorzea freely
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Jaxon Hawk|Jaxon Hawk]]'''
| ''"I know both her fears and her pains. She may never realize this."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jaxon Hawk is the young woman who murdered Alabrous Tane inside the Quicksand at the table across from Coatleque. Her reasoning at the time was unknown. Later it was revealed that Tane had set the woman up to meet Anden Anduron as a client. Anden's treatment of her was deplorable, and she sought revenge.

Jaxon's murder trial was halted after Anden was revealed to also be a murderer. Coatleque took her and Aaros Anduron away for protection until Anden was captured. She learned that Aaros and Jaxon were also in love at the time, a prospect the family would not take kindly to.

She has not seen either of them since then, and is not likely to for some time since her assignment to Coerthas.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Kage Kiryuu|Kage Kiryuu, Ser]]'''
| ''"Much more docile than I remember him..."''
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Kage was one of the Sultansworn who were under suspension pending an investigation into charges levied after the Nanawa mine incident. He was instrumental in tracking down The Rose and obtaining a redacted statement of Roen's spy allegations. Kage has since left the Order to pursue his own goals. She sometimes sees him in the Quicksand, though they rarely trade words.

More recently, Coatleque saw Kage in Ishgard with Delial Grimsong. How the two came to be travelling together she cannot guess, but knowing the history of each it most likely has something to do with Roen.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Kale Aideron|Kahleed Aideron]]'''
| ''"We fight for the same side. Our similarities end there."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An Immortal Flame, turned Blade, turned Bloodsworn. Kale has been a rather blunt voice of the Monetarist persuasion in Ul'dah. He and Coatleque share a number of views on how to go about protecting their city, however their opinions differ greatly on the execution of such views.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Kahn'a Ohditra|Kahn'a Ohditra]]'''
| ''"I envy the man now, stuck in all that warmth while I freeze in Coerthas."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An Immortal Flame whom Coatleque has worked with on occasion, most recently when a Garlean terrorist attempted to poison the city state of Ul'dah and assassinate the Sultana. She knows little of the man's personal life, but has great respect for him professionally and will trust his judgement.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Koporo Aporo|Koporo Aporo, Ser]]'''
| ''"So much potential wasted."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A Sultansworn in training. Impatient and short-fused. His anger seems to speak before his better judgement when conflict begins to escalate around him. Coatleque has tried lending her hand to his mentoring to try and guide Ser Aporo down a more diplomatic path.

Koporo later left the Order over frustrations of feeling powerless and the unwillingness of Coatleque to help him in a personal endeavor.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Leanne Delphium|Leanne, of the Fancy Hat]]'''
| ''"If only more could retain the same sense of wonder in the world."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A young Miqo'te adventurer not from Ul'dah. She seems to wander the length and breadth of Eorzea and pops-up unexpectedly from time to time. Coatleque first saw her at the Grindstone where she was the first competitor to ever enter (and win) with a bow. Since the woman moved on from The Coral Sea to pursue her own path they have not seen much of each other.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Natalie Mcbeef|Natalie Mcbeef, Ser]]'''
| ''"She died because of me. Because of my own selfish ... preoccupations."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Never before was there a more perfect example of comedic tragedy such as Natalie Mcbeef. The Miqo'te was a walking disaster with a good heart who Nymeia conspired against almost daily. While the two of them had begun their relationship in bitter conflict, over the course of their work they had grown to respect each other for the roles they each played in the security of the city-state. Natalie was eventually killed in action during a botched raid on La Noscean soil.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Nero Lazarov|Nero Lazarov]]'''
| ''"Would that his energies were invested in someone else, he may have become a great man."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A gentleman of fortune from Limsa Lominsa that Coatleque met through her friend Roen Deneith. The man had orchestrated an elaborate plan to summarily destroy then rebuild Ul'dah in his own image of perfection. His plans were ultimately foiled while he himself fled.

Coatleque is not aware of his current fate, and believes that Roen may have allowed him to flee to Othard to escape justice.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Oscare Iono|Oscare Iono, Captain]]'''
| ''"And oddly quiet man in an oddly flamboyant uniform."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A dark and brooding Highlander and expert with the bow. Coatleque knows little of this man, but sees him around quite often. He takes strong offense to the properness of her speech, becoming quite irate whenever she refers to him as Master, or almost any other title. Coatleque knows he serves the Maelstrom as Captain and that he seems to fancy her friend Jancis. Though her own lack of free time does not afford much opportunity for meddling.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Osric Melkire|Osric Melkire, Cheif Sergeant]]'''
| ''"If he comes after him again, he will walk away missing more than an arm. If he walks at all."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Chief Flame Sergeant of the Immortal Flames. Coatleque traded her assistance to him for information in another investigation. Since then, Ser Melkire has been held under duress by a madman. He was complicit to multiple attacks against Ul'dah. While Coatleque understands the man's reasoning, she cannot condone his actions. For her part, she will let the Immortal Flames handle justice of their own. More recently he once again bared his assassin's blade and struck out against Jameson Taeros. Coatleque stood against him during that bloody affair and may never be able to forgive him the harm that was caused all in the name of 'what if'.

Once Jameson was revealed to be alive and well, Coatleque tracked down Melkire in his jail cell where he was awaiting court martial. She spoke very briefly with him to try and determine his current intentions towards the man. She did not attend the trial for personal reasons and has not seen Melkire since then.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Otto Vann|Otto Vann]]'''
| ''"I've yet to meet his match. In business OR fashion sense."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A wealthy merchant and clothing designer who has made himself a name in Ul'dah. He seems to respect the Knight and always stops to greet her when they pass. She helped him resolve an issue regarding some stolen pants, and in return he made her an exquisite white dress which she wears now whenever possible. Regardless of how others see his doting upon her at times, she considers the eccentric artisan to be a friend.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[R'Elend Tia|R'elend Tia]]'''
| ''"He always seems to have trouble with his rigging. T'is a wonder he can set sail at all."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A Brass Blade who was recently transferred to the city from another tour. Coatleque has only recently met him, and has not had time to form any sort of opinion yet.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Roen Deneith|Roen Deneith, Ser]]'''
| ''"She was right. I was wrong. I would admit this to her every day if it could erase what was done."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | One of three Sultansworn whom Coatleque helped to exonerate. During Roen's imprisonment, Coatleque was her personal gaoler and attended her every morning and evening. Through their chats at night a friendship eventually bloomed. Later, Coatleque encouraged her friend to pursue a relationship with Nero Lazarov before either of them knew what the man was planning. To her regret, she eventually had to apprehend Roen once again in an attempt to draw the pirate out of hiding. Roen may never fully forgive her for this breach of trust, and Coatleque will always bear that scar on her conscience, but she maintains to this day that it was necessary to preserve the peace.

Since then, they have spoken only once under the watchful gaze of Halone's statue. Coatleque does not believe Roen wishes to see her again, and has no intention of pressing the issue.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Shaelen Stormchild]]'''
| ''"I often wonder... if the fates had been different, would I have been like her?"''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Smuggler and Ala Mhigan resistance member. Coatleque first met this woman while working to prove Roen's innocence of her false charges of spying. From there they have had limited interaction as the woman is rather aloof and nervous of being near law enforcement. Recently Coatleque has struck a deal with her to deliver Delial Grimsong into her hands in the exchange for information on where to find Nero Lazarov. An opportunity that seems to have been wasted.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Shas Tarry|Sharla Blackheart, Ser]]'''
| ''"She understands what it means to swear an oath. More than can be said of most paladins."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A veteran Paladin of the Order. Shas left the city under favorable terms a few years ago. She has since returned to Ul'dah and the Order and has been a tremendous help to Coatleque at reigning in all of the younger initiates. Shas tends to be more blunt than Crofte but she still keeps a rather level head. Since the opening of Ishgard's doors, the two have had need to travel to Coerthas for separate and personal reasons. Coatleque made sure they both had official orders as a cover to explain their time away from Ul'dah.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Thaliak's Axe|'Shooey']]'''
| ''"Careful. Once you get him started, the man never stops talking."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Seimei Ikari|Sei Castille]]'''
| ''"She and Lady Eglantine may get along swimmingly now."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A Miqo'te woman whom was previously set to wed Ser Warren Castille. For unknown reasons, the two had parted long ago. Coatleque helped Warren search Coerthas for her when she disappeared suddenly. Since then she has come back into Warren's life and the two have been competing for his affections. Warren chose his former love in the end. Coatleque does not trust her intentions and believes she will only hurt Warren again.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Septima Vitae|Septima Vitae]]'''
| ''"As a priestess of Menphina, she takes her duties quite... literally."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Spahro Llorn|Spahro Llorn]]'''
| ''"Despite all rumors to the contrary, Miss Llorn is in fact a person."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The scathingly angry reporter for the Tonberry's Lantern paper that is circulated across Eorzea. Miss Llorn never shies away from speaking her mind in and out of the papers. She has blasted both Jameson, and Crofte alike. For these reasons Coatleque avoids talking in her presence as much as possible. Still, there are occasions where the girl can sometimes come across as being almost friendly.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Tash Hollbrook|Tash Hollbrook]]'''
| ''"Perhaps the loosest of canons I have ever met. With the strongest of left hooks."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Vandol Morn|Vandol Morn]]'''
| ''"What in the Twelve hells is a 'chicken wing'?"''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Verad Bellveil|Verad Bellveil]]'''
| ''"The most honest man in Ul'dah that I know."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | One of the few honest merchants in Ul'dah. The man excels at selling low quality merchandise at overly affordable prices. In fact, most of his goods he practically gives away. Coatleque has yet to buy anything from him, but still keeps the 'plot device' he gave her just in case she has need for instant smoke in the middle of the desert. Having read his personal memoirs, she has a certain insight to the man that others may not have.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Warren Castille|Warren Castille, Ser]]'''
| ''"Next time our blades cross, it will be HE who loses a hand."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Often found in the Quicksand in past times. They were quickly drawn to each other and shared an intimate, though brief relationship. It ended when he left her to once again pursue his former love who had left him before. Coatleque has never quite gotten over his reasons, but understands them to the best of her abilities. The air around them has been tense since then, as former lovers tend to be.
|}
</div>

=Rumors=
__NOEDITSECTION__
(Please feel free to leave whatever IC rumors, true or not, that you want)
===PC Rumors===
<div style="font: 18px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
[[Alexei Volkov]]:<br/>
"The knight? Capable arm, dependable. Seems to be drawing much attention quickly. Good. Let her draw attention, vill continue to vork from shadows."
----
[[Askier Mergrey]]:<br/>
"She doesn't approve of my explosives. Well I don't approve of her not approving my explosives!"
----
[[Aya Foxheart]]:<br/>
*"She likes to keep an eye on the Quick Sand, and make sure that no one gets up to any trouble. She's the kind of Sultansworn that they're supposed to be. I trust her."<br/>
*"I'm not sure I've ever met anyone who so deserved things to go right for her - its such a shame that they never seem to. I'd do whatever I could for her, I'm lucky to call her a friend!"<br/>
*"Ser Crofte never seems to stop. I know she'll always do what's right, but sometimes it seems like she embraces the struggle too readily - she mustn't lose sight of what she's trying to protect. She needs to take time to stop and look around her, and remember the world in which she lives."<br/>
*"I fear Ser Crofte must find the strength to hold the pillars of Ul'dah; alone, if she must."
*"It has been so long since I have seen her." She sighs wistfully, "She would be a most welcome sight."
*''Rare Rumor'' "I know she found herself really wound up in something she shouldn't have. Sometimes I worry that is why I have not seen her..."
*"No... I really don't know what has become of her. But its not the same city without her..."
----
[[Berrod Armstrong]]:<br/>
"Well she ain't a sellout, I'll tell ya that. I done cat-called her on the street once. Was a real bastard 'bout it. Up ta now she ain't told nobody, and I even got a chance ta tell 'er sorry."
----
[[Cyneler Fenrir]]:<br/>
"She was my guide to the Sultansworn."
----
[[Delial Grimsong]]:<br/>
"I have said some unkind things of her, certainly. Imagine my surprise when the solution turned out to be wine!"
----
[[Edda Eglantine]]:<br/>
"She seems so sorrowful as of late, a far cry from the stoic woman I had initially taken her for. Perhaps I understand why, and yet…"
----
[[Evangeline Primrose]]:<br/>
"I used to think Lady Crofte was an Evil Bitch. Turns out she is just a bitch, and not bad as bitches go."
----
[[Fio Arasgain]]:<br/>
"One of the few who haven't been corrupted by gil in this cesspool of a city. I can only admire her sense of duty. However, would it kill her to take a day or two off?"
----
[[Franz Renatus]]:<br/>
*"I kept seeing her in the Quicksand after that one fight I had, but never talked to her. After ''that'' event, we've been talking more. She's more interesting than she lets on."<br/>
*"Have you seen her drink before? That girl with a steel will who is the symbol of being fair and just hides something else. I'd like to see it one day."
----
[[Gharen Wolfsong]]:<br/>
"She strikes me as an honorable woman, th' type te ne'er go against her word. I hope she's as incorruptible as th' mask she chooses fer everyone te see might indicate, lest th' pit o' vipers tha' is Ul'dah get th' better o' her."
----
[[Gideon North]]:<br/>
"I had at first presumed her to be a woman bound by duty, and of rigid adherence to code. It would be more accurate, I believe, to say that Miss Crofte will hesitate at... very little... to achieve her own ends. One might, however, see that as more respectable than the former."
----
[[Jana Ridah]]:<br/>
"I wish she could see the yoke lifted off her shoulders for what it was, but I am of no station fit to tell her so myself."
----
[[Jancis Milburga]]:<br/>
*"So many ask me about her. Wish to know her. I shall tell her you asked!"<br/>
*<i>Rarer Rumor</i> "Cici is the one who made me understand what family and life mean."
----
[[Kage Kiryuu]]:<br>
*"Ser Crofte is missing as well? This is ridiculous..."
*<i>Rarer Rumor</i> "I can't believe she slept with him."
----
[[Kahn'a Ohditra]]:<br>
*"I've treated with her as a Sultansworn. Beyond the uniform? Never."
----
[[Kale Aideron]]:<br/>
"Does she bloody smile? I ploughin' bet you I work 'arder than 'er, 'nd even -I- can kick back 'nd relax, least once a seven-day. But yea', fine, I like 'er. Knows what the fuck needs to be done, unlike the latest batch of pansy paladins 'trained' by Captain Jenlyns..."
----
[[Kiht Jakkya]]:<br/>
"Crofte? I still hardly know her, but we recently spent some time together... Learning about Dragons... I should go."
----
[[Lilithium Altair]]:<br/>
"I see her around all the time! Never spoken much with her though, save when she's kept Ado out of trouble."
----
[[L'yhta Mahre]]:<br/>
"I heard she was in charge of security at half the taverns in Eorzea! You definitely don't want to get on her bad side, at least if you want to get a drink anywhere outside of Mor Dhona!"
----
[[Natalie Mcbeef]]:<br/>
"She's not quite as annoying as I first thought. She wears the armor like she was born to do so, I wish I felt as comfortable in it."
----
[[Orrin Halgren]]:<br/>

"The Sultansworn? My experience with her is that she puts Ul'dah's safety above all other reason. It makes her commendable in service and obstructive in others..."
----
[[Obsidian Hornet]]:<br/>
"All the good intentions in the world don't mean a thing if you don't have the wit or skill to make good on them. Crofte means well but she needs to be better. I trust her, she's a good person, but her incompetence could get people killed. Herself included."
----
[[Oscare Iono]]:<br/>
"What was it, Wristcleaver? Wristbreaker? Bah, it doesn't matter. If you like your head on your shoulders though, it'd be smart to behave around her."
----
[[Osric Melkire]]:<br/>
"Ser Crofte? Aye, I know her. She 'n' I find ourselves workin' cross-purposes more often than either o' us would like. Would that that could change, eh?"
----
[[Remimont Portier]]:<br/>
"She appears to possess a remarkable sense of duty and justice both. All of my interactions with her feel as if I am speaking with a character from any number of novels I have read. Tis astounding to meet such a person in the flesh. She is an example, truly."
----
[[Roen Deneith]]:<br/>
"When we last spoke, I gave her a warning. That the man she loved would only bring her sorrow in the end. I did not wish to be proven right, but I know she is suffering now. Perhaps... she and I should speak again... and make amends."
----
[[Sharla Blackheart]]:<br/>
"For some reason, I feel she's one of the few people around that I willingly trust. Maybe I should tell her the truth one of these days."
----
[[Spahro Llorn]]:<br/>
"Crofte has this amazing ability to aquire power and forsake any responsibility to use it. It's like watching a dragon fret over whether or not it'll run out of eggs before it gets married."
----
[[Verad Bellveil]]:<br/>
"She's a good woman, so much so that I have no idea how she manages to tolerate my presence. Making me question my own dubiousness! A cunning plan."
----
[[Warren Castille]]:<br/>
"She's chosen. I wonder if she sleeps at night. Rumor says she doesn't."
----
[[X'Kohu Tia]]:<br/>
"Coat's an alright girl, got a good head on her shoulders and a good heart in her chest. Still, if she wants to keep patrolling taverns, she's gotta learn to hold her liquor!"
----

</div>
===NPC Rumors (Newer)===
<div style="font: 18px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "A pain in our collective arses she is, but we have orders to 'put up with her' for the time being."
:*<u>Ul'dahn Nobleman</u>: "Hrmpf... I see that Royalist wench coming and going from the estate of Taeros far to often. About time he produced an heir anyway."
:*<u>Sultansworn Squire</u>: "Don't you believe those naysayers. Ser Crofte is still as loyal to her Grace as she has ever been."
:*<u>Ala Mhigan Refugee</u>: *snorts* "Oh how the mighty have fallen."
</div>
===NPC Rumors (Older)===
<div style="font: 18px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
:*<u>Quicksand Patron</u>: "Poor woman can't hold her liquor. After just one drink she starts speaking in tongues or the like."
:*<u>Woman in Mourning</u>: "I've seen her in the Ossuary paying respects to some unknown man. They must have been close."
:*<u>Long-necked Sultansworn</u>: "If you see that Highlander buzzing around her again, tell him I'm watching him."
:*<u>Ul'dah Guttersnipe</u>: "I heard 'er talking te that pimp o'er in Pearl Lane. He sure put 'er in 'er place. Good te know she ain't as high 'n mighty as she thinks."
:*<u>Quicksand Patron</u>: "I seen her get'n all kissy-faced with that other Paladin. They think they're subtle, but they ain't."
:*<u>Random Palace Guard</u>: "Ser Crofte has paid the ultimate price for Her Grace, and by some miracle survived to serve again. She is an inspiration to all of us who swear the Oath."
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "She's all fancy talk and good looks. Keep the pressure on her and she'll go right back to 'er whore'n ways."
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "Oh, I remember her. Quite good with her mouth that one, mmm-hahahaha!"
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "She was my favorite. Just something about those eyes... and red hair. *sigh* Shame when we had to take that place down."
</div>

=Quotes=
[[File:Crofte_Sideglance.png|225px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
"Look Jancis, I'm flying!" ~ while being carried to an inn room after too much wine<br/>
----
"I'm not a warrior like you, Tasa. I was supposed to be a house-wife!" ~ personal moment with Tasa Rhyzul<br/>
----
Jancis: "Can you see from back there?" Coatleque: "I can see exactly what I need to." ~ while watching Warren at the Grindstone
----
"Everyone is fragile, Ser. It merely depends on what height we are dropped from." ~ Advice given to Warren Castille
----
"Titles change often, Miss. You are what you chose to be. Remember what you are, and title may yet return in time." ~ Advice given to Roen Deneith
----
"Aye, he says mae subornimate has a plan. Which I think means Natalie is about tae step in shite again..." ~ After too much whiskey.
----
"Compassion is never wrong, but when you begin to show too much of it the line of justice becomes harder to cross. And then one day your enemies are as dear to your heart as your family." ~ to Roen, regarding due process
----
"The best games are those you do not know you are playing until the very end." ~ Words of Jameson Taeros over dinner
----
"One moment of reason in a sea of madness does not make for a smooth sail." ~ said to Osric Melkire before court martial
</div>

=Notable Events=
The following is a list of forum threads that detail specific encounters and longer plots. Some may be continuing, some may be completed, and others may have been chance encounters.
{|
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=13574 Outside of Passion]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte / Edda Eglantine
| Status: In Progress
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jameson is back, but has his heart changed?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=10212 What You Are in the Dark]'''
| Thread Owner: Nero Lazarov / Roen Deneith
| Status: Concluded
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | As pressure mounts and darkness closes in, we are who chose to be. The rivalry between Taeros and Lazarov reaches its conclusion for all involved.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8634 The Coming Storm]'''
| Thread Owner: Nero Lazarov / Roen Deneith
| Status: Concluded
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | After the events of '''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8223 The Forlorn Fortnight]''' and '''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7981 No Good Deed]''', Lazarov escalates his plans for Ul'dah in full force.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9190 Scales in the Sand]'''
| Thread Owner: Verad Bellveil
| Status: Concluded
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | What happens when contraband from Ishgard is randomly distributed among the populace of Ul'dah? Dragons in Thanalan!
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8325 Dear CiCi]'''
| Thread Owner: Jancis Milburga
| Status: On-going
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Personal letters and private musings of Coatleque's dear friend [[Jancis Milburga | Jancis]] written to her from the Mist.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7390 Chronicles of a Sultansworn in (the) Heat]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte
| Status: On-going
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Random encounters and musings of one of Ul'dah's knights.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9165 Paladin's Proof]'''
| Thread Owner: Chachanji Gegenji
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Chachanji Gegenji would like to be a paladin. Coatleque has given him a task to set him on his way.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9327 Coincidence and Happenstance]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef / Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | What happens when a loyal dog of the state and a bleeding heart of the people are locked in an elevator?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8756 A Renewal of Trust]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Unknown
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | With Natalie gone, Coatleque is now the closest to Taeros. For her friend's sake she means to spy on him. But is there something more there?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9285 Of Service and Brotherhood]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Unfinished
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Ser Crofte takes a group of new initiates on an important mission for the Palace to teach them to work together.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8995 The Wandering Warrior]'''
| Thread Owner: G'leo Nunh
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A high value target is wandering lose in Ul'dah. He may have been caught, to, if not for Evangeline's quick thinking.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8852 The Rights of All]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Evangeline Primrose, self-proclaimed savior of the common man, has setup her soap box in the city square. How long can she pontificate before the guards silence her?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8630 Remnants of a Life Inexpertly Led]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | With Natalie gone, Coatleque has been designated executor of her estate.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8039 A Cup of Tea?]'''
| Thread Owner: Aya Foxheart / Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Unfinished
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | While Warren is away, Coatleque spends a day to relax with Aya away from the Quicksand.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8759 Clearing the Air]'''
| Thread Owner: Osric Melkire
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Rumors abound and trust is hard to keep. Sometimes you need to speak frankly.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7924 The Crooked Phoenix Emporium]'''
| Thread Owner: Crooked Tarot
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | There is a new shop in town. Ser Crofte performs one of her routine inspections while on another case.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8238 The Hand That Feeds You]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" |
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7510 An Unscheduled Luncheon]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte / Warren Castille
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The budding relationship between Crofte and Castille.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7280 Second Hand Faith]'''
| Thread Owner: Roen Deneith
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | After a Ceruleum core goes missing and three Knights are demoted as an example, Jenlyns reluctantly sics his latest upstart on the problem.
|}

<headertabs />

Coatleque Crofte

2015-12-28T06:38:52Z

Kage: /* Rumors */

=General=

{{Infobox-character
| name = Coatleque Crofte
| image = Coatleque_Crofte_3.jpg
| imagewidth = 275px
| imageheight =
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ul'Dah
| race = Hyur
| clan = Highlander
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = Early to mid 20's
| stat_2 = Marital Status
| stat_2_value = It's Complicated
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Paladin & Sultansworn
| stat_4 = Height/Weight
| stat_4_value = 5 fulms, 6 ilms / 150 ponz
| stat_5 = Nicknames
| stat_5_value = "CC", Lady Crofte
}}
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 700px;">
'''Coatleque Crofte''' (pronounced cottl-ee-kay) is, by her knowledge, the only remaining survivor of her fishing village from the north. Her life has been hard since the Calamity, but she is slowly working to piece it back together and raise her station in the city of coin.

She tries to appear and act like a proper lady at all times. Often found in and around Ul'dah as she is unable to stray very far due to her duties as a Sultansworn, she is a chronic workaholic and will almost always be found in uniform. She considers this to be her only proof of station within the city and takes her position very seriously.

While most of the people of Thanalan can easily see her in the role of a knight, to any true noble it would be blatantly clear that she is not of their blood. While on duty she acts with the utmost respect and exudes the authoritative presence one would expect of a paladin. When off-duty, she will always be dressed well with her hair made up, often with a hat of some sort. Her nights are spent quietly observing the myriad adventurers that pass through the city on the off chance she may hear rumors related to whatever investigations she has pending.

She had been shy in her past as the responsibility of the Gallantry was first laid upon her, but since then she has grown into the position. She is not one to begin a conversation, but she can certainly end one if it is called for. Her speech is slow and practiced unless something has upset or distracted her. In these moments her Ala'Mhigan origins will show through.

Her involvement with a Monetarist nobleman, Jameson Taeros, was well known through the city at one point. She has been rather withdrawn from the public lately, and the man himself has not been seen for some time. Inquiries into the affairs of House Taeros would find that the estate has been recently foreclosed upon.

Coatleque has not been seen in the city much recently. Inquiries to other Sultansworn into her current whereabouts would reveal she has been temporarily reassigned to an outpost in the north, but specific details are not disclosed.
</div>

=Education=
[[File:Coatleque_Crofte_4.jpg|250px|left]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 325px;">
Coatleque did not have any formal education when she arrived in Ul'dah. Being the daughter of a fisherman, she knew how to cook, clean, and gut fish. She spoke with a heavy Ala'Mhighan accent and poorly at that. She was forced to learn quickly how to act and address the nobility, due to circumstances, or else she would not have survived long.

As of now she is able to read, write, and can speak slowly and eloquently as long as she is focused on her speech. She has basic knowledge of a myriad of useless skills which she had to learn, the more important of those being slight of hand and picking simple locks. Anything more than those of typical shackles would be beyond her skill.

The majority of her formal learning is that of swordplay from her training in the Sultansworn Order. While she was certainly not the best of her class, she did excel quickly at it and earned a few nicknames due to her two-handed fighting style that tended to leave her practice mates with sprained wrists.
</div>

=Spirituality=
[[File:Crofte_ByEdda.jpg|250px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
A firm believer in the Twelve, Coatleque relies on them for strength and guidance. She sees the work of their hands in all things around her and is baffled by how blind some people can be in their lack of faith. She is not one to push her beliefs on others even as she makes mention of the Twelve frequently through conversations.

In her past, Llymlaen was the patron of her village, being settled on the shores of Gyr'Abania. Some of her people did adopt Rhalgr as most of Ala'Mhigo would. It was through the faith of her friend Sapphire that she began to trust more in Menphina after she was brought to Ul'dah.

Seeing relationship after relationship either fall apart or end with another dead lover, combined with the loss of her close friend Natalie in the Order, she has taken Rhalgr as her patron. Recent events in her life have made her come to realize she cannot maintain a neutral ground where politics and justice collide. Through the blessings of Rhalgr she would hope to bring about the destruction of the plots of evil men against her new home.

Coatleque is also closely tied to Nymeia, goddess of fate, whom she believes will place portents of things to come in the dreams of those whom are destined to change them.
</div>

=Combat=
[[File:Crofte_combat.jpg|250px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 500px;">
Coatleque has no martial prowess other than that of the sword, her skill thereof being every bit of that which one would expect from the Sultana's Elite guard - though she is no grandmaster. Her style is one of mobility and brute force. She focuses on dodging attacks while exploiting openings in defense, and therefore will not favor a shield in combat. It is rumored that a full on hit from her blade when wielded with two hands is enough to split a wooden shield, or shatter the victim's arm if it is metal. All pure speculation of course, but few would be foolhardy enough to test such.

It is just as well that she has no love of combat and views all life as sacred. She very rarely spars with any live opponents, preferring the safety of a training dummy. If drawn into actual combat, she strikes only to disarm and subdue. If she ever lashes out to kill it would be out of fear for the lives of those in her care, or for her own safety.

Her personal arsenal has been collected over time from various jobs, missions, gifts, and commissions. The most recent addition being the large gilded sword she now carries often which was gifted to her by her paramour Jameson Taeros. She carries it more as a sentimental item while on duty - it has yet to see actual use, though it is a fully-forged and sharpened blade. Other blades she has kept are a long iron spatha when she needs concealment, a standard issue Brass Blade scimitar, a ceremonial cobalt winglet, and her own commissioned blue-steel winglet which was formerly her primary weapon. The last blade she eventually bestowed to Hroch Greyarm in repayment of a personal debt of blood. She has not seen the man since.
</div>

=Healing=
[[File:Cc_hs_croft.png|175px|left]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto; min-height: 300px;">
While it is true that Coatleque has some minor training in Conjuration, she was never very adept at the concept.
She finds it hard to focus, especially in times of stress, which is not a particularly good trait for someone
attempting to heal others. Despite this she 'can' still cast the spells to heal or to even bring one back from
the brink of death. The former is very taxing on her, while the latter will leave her exhausted to the point of
being momentarily incapacitated.

Her ability to use aether is otherwise unaffected. Her Paladin training has shown that she is able to channel the
required aether through herself as if it were second nature. Defensive spells and offensive sword skills she can
use with ease. If she had any sort of affinity it would be in force barriers and other aetherically created shields.
</div>

=Background=
__NOTOC__
[[File:Crofte_pinkdress.jpg|225px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
There was a time when Coatleque was dead-set against speaking of her own background and life before joining the Sultansworn. Even today she is hesitant to share any details with those she does not know. In her line of work, however, she has found there are times when it helps to share certain details to prove she is no better than the criminals she is forced to deal with. People tend to open up slightly when they see each other on common ground.
<hr/>
===Birth and Early Life:===
Coatleque is from a remote fishing village at the Southern tip of Ala'Mhigo, the beaches of Gyr'Abania. Born Florence Fishbane in the year 1557 of the Sixth Astral Era just after the fall of Ala Mhigo, this makes her Garlean by birth alone if not for location. Built on the coast and of little importance, the village eked out a meagre existence far from the city-state itself. She was a typical country girl, the daughter of a fisherman with no special skills or talents. She spent her youth helping her mother cooking, cleaning, and gutting fish for her father. To this day she cannot bear the taste of seafood. When she came of age, her parents began the process of arranging her to be bonded to the miller's son. A quiet life she was honestly looking forward to.

When Dalamund came raining down, a rather large chunk of it fell to the ocean just off the coast of the villiage itself. The resulting tidal wave destroyed the village and swept away a majority of its inhabitants. Those who survived had fled to the old military outpost built into the cliffs just above the shore. Not even a week later, still in mourning, brigands from the mountains came looking to make quick coin off the salvage from the wreckage. Florence watched in horror as her fiancée was killed and cried out which gave away their position. What villagers were left were captured or killed as they tried to flee. She has never forgiven herself for this, which she considers the single greatest mistake of her life.

===Captivity in Ul'dah:===
They were carted off in rags and taken by cover of night to Ul'dah first. The leader of the brigands, Cadmus, was an experienced slaver who knew he could exploit the women and especially Florence for a certain quality she had. She was sold to Dace Korlon, proprietor of the Red Sands - an expensive brothel in one of the less frequented parts of Pearl Lane. There she remained for three long years of forced service as a high-class whore.

She would not have survived her ordeal if not for the kindness of another slave girl, a Miqo'te Seeker called Sapphire due to her deep purple eyes. Sapphire was the longest surviving slave girl at the time and had the Master's favor, being in charge of the other slave girls. She took pity on Florence and often came to her room at night to talk and teach her how to survive. It was Sapphire who gave her the name Coatleque because of her exotic red hair. The purpose being that Florence could pin all the wicked things she had been forced to do on Coatleque, then leave the name behind if the Twelve ever granted her freedom again.

It was Sapphire who taught Coatleque how to read and write, how to speak properly like a lady. How to dress, wear make-up and to look the part. Their clients demanded such from their higher-class girls after all. Sapphire also taught her how to perform simple dances, how to pick locks so they could walk freely at night, and simple tricks of slight-of-hand. The Master expected them to ply their trade to the fullest extent possible, after all, and many a nobleman left with their pockets much lighter than intended.

It was near the end of her imprisonment that Sapphire came to her one night looking very distraught. It seemed she had stolen something from a very influential client. Something she should not have. Despite the Master's insistence that she did well, she feared for her own life and new it was time to leave. Having swiped a key from Dace's room and bribed the guard for the night, she intended to leave and return to her tribe. It was then that she told Coatleque her real name, F'lierre, and the two knew they may never see each other again.

Not one moon after their emotional departure, the Brass Blades descended upon the Red Sands in a false-front raid to 'end slave trafficking'. What Coatleque later found was that F'lierre had stolen a forged signet ring of the house of Ul and the Syndicate was none too happy at its loss. The Blades ransacked the building, set it ablaze, and killed anyone who got in their way. Among the confusion, Coatleque managed to help as many girls as she could escape through the sewers. The next morning many of them saw their first sunrise in years once more as free women.

===Answers in the Shroud:===
This section has not been written yet

===Return to Ul'dah:===
This section has not been written yet

===Meaning in Service:===
This section has not been written yet
</div>

=Relationships=
An exhaustive, ALPHABETICAL, list of people that Coatleque knows, how, why, and her reaction to them. If your name is not on this list, it is because I either forgot or have not role-played long enough to form a sufficient opinion yet.
<div style="font: 16px Times New Roman, serif;">
----
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Aaros Anduron|Aaros Anduron]]'''
| ''"In his eyes, I see the potential future of the Order."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Aaros is the youngest son of house Anduron, and perhaps the most idealistic as a result. While his family sees his desire to join the ranks of the Sultansworn as an opportunity for political maneuvering, Aaros takes his decision with the utmost sincerity. Coatleque has seen his kind of idealism before in other young candidates and can only hope he has the will to maintain it where so many others did not.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Alabrous Tane|Alabrous Tane]]'''
| ''"Don't know what I ever saw in him, or why I still think of him."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A thoroughly despicable man and a shadow of Coatleque's past. Their relationship began while she was enslaved by an Ul'dahn pillowhouse. He came around just long enough for her to start to care about him then suddenly disappeared. Coatleque was forced to deal with him again during one of her investigations. She later discovered he was working for Jameson Taeros. Tane was killed by Jaxon Hawk right in front of Coatleque one night at the Quicksand while they were sharing a drink.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Anden Anduron|Anden Anduron]]'''
| ''"If such a man as he can find redemption, I believe anyone can."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Anden is the bastard son of House Anduron, and his behavior has been fitting for such. A cruel, sadistic man who delighted in inflicting misery, he was described as the perfect dog by Jameson Taeros. As such, the man was elevated to an officership in the Brass Blades for a time.

After the murder of Alabrous Tane, Anden sought to take Jaxon Hawk from Coatleque's imprisonment. Even though he had legal grounds for the transfer, Coatleque fought against him when she saw the fear in Jaxon's eyes. Knowing Anden's reputation, and hearing Aaros's pleas, she kept the woman away from him until Tane's murder trial.

At the trial it was revealed that Anden may have abused Jaxon both persoanlly, and with others. Anden fled the trial and murdured Jaxon's friend in the process. He was later taken into custody by the Brass Blades, and Coatleque took Jaxon and Aaros away to hide for their own protection.

Anden was later released under Jameson's orders and quietly sent northward where he disappeared. Weeks after, Coatleque managed to find him when she decided to follow-up on a warning against doing so. She found the man had since turned from his previous path to take up Halone's mantle in his own search for attonement. Chosing to respect his wishes, and allow him to continue his servitude, she has told no one back in Ul'dah of his whereabouts. For all intents, the man is now dead.

It remains to be seen whether or not she made the right choice in sparing him.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Anelia Sadowyn|Anelia Sadowyn, Ser]]'''
| ''"Zealot does not even begin to describe her."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The Azure Falcon of Carteneau Plains, Anelia's history with the Sultansworn was tumultuous at best. Her overzealous pursuit of Monetarist corruption has clashed with the goals of the Order on more than one occasion. Coatleque eventually had to confront her over this and Anelia left the Order soon afterwords to pursue her own goals as a Free Paladin. Since then, the woman has only become more relentless and is prone to overstep her authority to cleanse any perceived corruption even to the point of hunting after Coatleque herself.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Askier Mergrey|Askier Mergrey]]'''
| ''"He'll keep his nose clean, if he knows what's good for him."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An explosives expert and former Garlean operative in Thanalan, Coatleque knows only as much of his past as is revealed by official briefings. She knows he began to turn over a new leaf at some point but suffered a severely traumatic experience when held captive with Roen Deneith. The man was presumed dead around the time of Ishgard's rejoining the alliance. The paladin has seen no reason, personal or otherwise, to contest this claim.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Aya Foxheart|Aya Foxheart]]'''
| ''"I miss her effervescence."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The always lovely bar maid of the Quicksand. The nights she is working just seem to pass too quickly. Her constant kindness towards the Coatleque has caused her to take pause on occasion. She considers her a friend now, more than an acquaintance, and would try to keep her at length from the troubles of the city. The words Aya has offered as well as the quiet tea times they share have allowed Coatleque to relax on occasion and take stock of what is truly important to her.

It has been some time since the two have seen each other as Coatleque is away from the city on orders.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Brynnalia Callae|Brynnalia Callae]]'''
| ''"Why her? How is she trusted over me?"''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A raven-haired former member of the Ala'Mhigan resistance. Coatleque met Miss Callae through Jameson Taeros by which she is employed. They deal with each other as needed though often with opposing goals. Brynnalia seems to be motivated only by money in Coatleque's eyes. This is blessing and a curse as Coatleque knows the woman can probably be bought, but perhaps by the wrong person. They fell out of contact soon after Jameson's disappearance.

Brynnalia eventually contacted Coatleque again after Jameson's re-emergence. The news that she was once again working with Coatleque's 'former' love did not go over very well.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Delial Grimsong]]'''
| ''"First the coeurl lost its claws, and now its fangs."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The Kinslayer, bane of the Ala Mhigan resistance. Coatleque knows almost nothing about this woman personally. Their paths often cross at the hands of others, and typically only when dirty deeds need doing. From what dealings they <i>have</i> had, she is none too impressed with Delial. Anyone with as much bad blood in their history as her is not someone Coatleque is willing to trust so readily. She has gone so far as to deliver the woman into the hands of former resistance members to give them the chance at delivering whatever justice is deserved.

Delial escaped that setup with her life and the two women have made a tentative truce. Neither one fully trusts the other, but they at least recognize that they are not their true enemies.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Edda Eglantine]]'''
| ''"We do not share the same penchant for ripping out one's heart and eating it before them."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | To Coatleque, Lady Eglantine is the only sign of nobility outside of Ul'dah she has had direct contact with. Refined, elegant, the picture of everything Coatleque wanted to be. Until she personally revealed that she was betrothed to the man Coatleque loved. Her cold and emotionless expression through the entire ordeal has made Crofte begin to reconsider her own desires out of life, since she is obviously too passionate to play the same political games.

Since that night, Coatleque has tried to remain professional in Edda's sight. She is still part of a wealthy La Noscean house, and Crofte is still a Sultansworn. She wrote her to warn of pending threats to her life now that Edda is tied to Jameson. Beyond such diplomacy, Coatleque has no further desire to speak with her.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Evangeline Primrose|Evangeline Primrose]]'''
| ''"Somewhere inside that soft, bleeding heart of hers beats the cold, iron heart of a warrior."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Dravanian heretic, Ishgardian exile, and self-proclaimed revolutionary. Evangeline has been a thorn in Coatleque's side since she arrived in Ul'dah. Their relationship has been a string of heated debates separated by shite flinging (quite literally once time). In the end, Coatleque's even-temper seems to have won out as Evangeline's strategy has mellowed some. They have even come so far as to be civil in one anothers' company.

In exchange for her cooperation with a recent investigation, Coatleque has agreed to help train Evangeline in the art of the sword. Something her previous mentor, Gharen Wolfsong, was doing before his untimely disappeareance.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Franz Renatus|Franz]]'''
| ''"It has been so long, I barely remember him."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An apparently Ishgardian mercenary who Coatleque first met when she separated his fist from Natalie Mcbeef's face in the Quicksand. She knows next to nothing of the man personally, but after recent events he seems to be much more docile, even civilized. They have occasionally traded words in the Quicksand but have seen little of each other lately.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Gharen Wolfsong|Gharen Wolfsong]]'''
| ''"I wonder... if his chest is as hard as his face was..."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Free Paladin, and member of the Ala'Mhigan resistance. Coatleque met him first through his sister Roen. A rather private person, in her estimation, their paths do not cross often. She is happy to work with him whenever they do, however. He disappeared rather abruptly after Lazarov's threat to Ul'dah had been dealt with but Coatelque is sure the man can handle himself where ever he has gone.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Gideon North]]'''
| ''"Perhaps one day he may give me the honor of calling him a friend."''
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jameson's now former valet and butler. Coatleque had the displeasure of reinforcing Jameson's dismissal of the man after recent events. Perhaps not so much a friend, she sees him for what he is and can appreciate him as she is a servant herself. In all her dealings with Taeros, Gideon has unwittingly served as a voice on the side who helped to keep her grounded in who she is as the world crumbled around her.

She lost touch with Mister North after Jameson's disappearance. Brynnalia Callae recently let slip that the man was working in or around his employ once more, but Coatleque has yet to confirm such a rumor.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Jameson Taeros|Jameson Taeros]]'''
| ''"I am not sure which of his lies to believe. Those he spoke before, or these he speaks now."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jameson Taeros was at one time a wealthy upstart on the Ul'dahn scene, aligned with Monetarist interests. He is a wildly driven man who is not above stooping to underhanded ways of accomplishing his goals. Yet he is shrewed, intelligent, and always careful that none of his dealings can be traced back to himself.

Coatleque met Jameson through her friend Natalie. Both served the Sultansworn at the time. Natalie was the one who dealt with Jameson's schemes while Coatleque was content to simply follow her orders and assist as necessary to get the job done. Whith Natalie's death, it fell to Coatleque to take up the other role as well. With new purpose, she resolved to take more action befitting her position in the Order rather than being content to sit on the side.

She decided to get closer to the man to spy on him, both for her own interests and for her friend Roen, whom believed he had ties to a woman who was hunting her. She could not keep her emotions separate from her job, however, and Coatleque became enamored with the man as she learned more about him. Over the course of months they grew unexpectedly closer, and he began to trust her with more details of his past. When the time came that she could have taken what she needed and left, she found that she could not betray him.

Coatleque stood with Jameson against the pirate Nero Lazarov. While she always maintained this was done out of duty, her heart would have said otherwise. All plans changed, however, when Osric Melkire led an assult on Jameson's personal estate meaning to kill him. Coatleque stood by her love's side and drew steel against some of her closest friends only to watch in horror as Jameson was shot twice by Melkire. The man disappeared that night with no trace but his last word, 'Banurein.'

The next weeks were spent tracking down any lead she could find as to where Jameson would have gone. His trail led her to Gridania, then Coerthas where she learned he was seen flying to Vylbrand. After arriving back to the islands it was revealed that he was bethrothed to Lady Edda Eglantine. The shock of such betrayal of trust drove her back into Coerthas where she aimed to carry out her official orders so she could return to Ul'dah and continue her own life.

Coatleque has only spoken to Jameson one time since then. While it is clear they still love each other, she is unwilling to challenge his plans or tempt a scandal by interfereing with his betrothal. So she sits in Coerthas, and waits.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Jancis Milburga|Jancis Milburga]]'''
| ''"My dearest friend, and as close to any family as I have left."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Coatleque met Jancis in Gridania just after the Knight had left Ul'dah to take up Conjuration. She was at first a fellow student, though already more advanced, and later became a close friend. Coatleque trusted her and eventually they became like sisters. While Coatleque is busy with her duties in Thanalan, Jancis continues to roam Eorzea freely
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Jaxon Hawk|Jaxon Hawk]]'''
| ''"I know both her fears and her pains. She may never realize this."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jaxon Hawk is the young woman who murdered Alabrous Tane inside the Quicksand at the table across from Coatleque. Her reasoning at the time was unknown. Later it was revealed that Tane had set the woman up to meet Anden Anduron as a client. Anden's treatment of her was deplorable, and she sought revenge.

Jaxon's murder trial was halted after Anden was revealed to also be a murderer. Coatleque took her and Aaros Anduron away for protection until Anden was captured. She learned that Aaros and Jaxon were also in love at the time, a prospect the family would not take kindly to.

She has not seen either of them since then, and is not likely to for some time since her assignment to Coerthas.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Kage Kiryuu|Kage Kiryuu, Ser]]'''
| ''"Much more docile than I remember him..."''
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Kage was one of the Sultansworn who were under suspension pending an investigation into charges levied after the Nanawa mine incident. He was instrumental in tracking down The Rose and obtaining a redacted statement of Roen's spy allegations. Kage has since left the Order to pursue his own goals. She sometimes sees him in the Quicksand, though they rarely trade words.

More recently, Coatleque saw Kage in Ishgard with Delial Grimsong. How the two came to be travelling together she cannot guess, but knowing the history of each it most likely has something to do with Roen.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Kale Aideron|Kahleed Aideron]]'''
| ''"We fight for the same side. Our similarities end there."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An Immortal Flame, turned Blade, turned Bloodsworn. Kale has been a rather blunt voice of the Monetarist persuasion in Ul'dah. He and Coatleque share a number of views on how to go about protecting their city, however their opinions differ greatly on the execution of such views.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Kahn'a Ohditra|Kahn'a Ohditra]]'''
| ''"I envy the man now, stuck in all that warmth while I freeze in Coerthas."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | An Immortal Flame whom Coatleque has worked with on occasion, most recently when a Garlean terrorist attempted to poison the city state of Ul'dah and assassinate the Sultana. She knows little of the man's personal life, but has great respect for him professionally and will trust his judgement.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Koporo Aporo|Koporo Aporo, Ser]]'''
| ''"So much potential wasted."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A Sultansworn in training. Impatient and short-fused. His anger seems to speak before his better judgement when conflict begins to escalate around him. Coatleque has tried lending her hand to his mentoring to try and guide Ser Aporo down a more diplomatic path.

Koporo later left the Order over frustrations of feeling powerless and the unwillingness of Coatleque to help him in a personal endeavor.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Leanne Delphium|Leanne, of the Fancy Hat]]'''
| ''"If only more could retain the same sense of wonder in the world."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A young Miqo'te adventurer not from Ul'dah. She seems to wander the length and breadth of Eorzea and pops-up unexpectedly from time to time. Coatleque first saw her at the Grindstone where she was the first competitor to ever enter (and win) with a bow. Since the woman moved on from The Coral Sea to pursue her own path they have not seen much of each other.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Natalie Mcbeef|Natalie Mcbeef, Ser]]'''
| ''"She died because of me. Because of my own selfish ... preoccupations."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Never before was there a more perfect example of comedic tragedy such as Natalie Mcbeef. The Miqo'te was a walking disaster with a good heart who Nymeia conspired against almost daily. While the two of them had begun their relationship in bitter conflict, over the course of their work they had grown to respect each other for the roles they each played in the security of the city-state. Natalie was eventually killed in action during a botched raid on La Noscean soil.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Nero Lazarov|Nero Lazarov]]'''
| ''"Would that his energies were invested in someone else, he may have become a great man."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A gentleman of fortune from Limsa Lominsa that Coatleque met through her friend Roen Deneith. The man had orchestrated an elaborate plan to summarily destroy then rebuild Ul'dah in his own image of perfection. His plans were ultimately foiled while he himself fled.

Coatleque is not aware of his current fate, and believes that Roen may have allowed him to flee to Othard to escape justice.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Oscare Iono|Oscare Iono, Captain]]'''
| ''"And oddly quiet man in an oddly flamboyant uniform."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A dark and brooding Highlander and expert with the bow. Coatleque knows little of this man, but sees him around quite often. He takes strong offense to the properness of her speech, becoming quite irate whenever she refers to him as Master, or almost any other title. Coatleque knows he serves the Maelstrom as Captain and that he seems to fancy her friend Jancis. Though her own lack of free time does not afford much opportunity for meddling.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Osric Melkire|Osric Melkire, Cheif Sergeant]]'''
| ''"If he comes after him again, he will walk away missing more than an arm. If he walks at all."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Chief Flame Sergeant of the Immortal Flames. Coatleque traded her assistance to him for information in another investigation. Since then, Ser Melkire has been held under duress by a madman. He was complicit to multiple attacks against Ul'dah. While Coatleque understands the man's reasoning, she cannot condone his actions. For her part, she will let the Immortal Flames handle justice of their own. More recently he once again bared his assassin's blade and struck out against Jameson Taeros. Coatleque stood against him during that bloody affair and may never be able to forgive him the harm that was caused all in the name of 'what if'.

Once Jameson was revealed to be alive and well, Coatleque tracked down Melkire in his jail cell where he was awaiting court martial. She spoke very briefly with him to try and determine his current intentions towards the man. She did not attend the trial for personal reasons and has not seen Melkire since then.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Otto Vann|Otto Vann]]'''
| ''"I've yet to meet his match. In business OR fashion sense."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A wealthy merchant and clothing designer who has made himself a name in Ul'dah. He seems to respect the Knight and always stops to greet her when they pass. She helped him resolve an issue regarding some stolen pants, and in return he made her an exquisite white dress which she wears now whenever possible. Regardless of how others see his doting upon her at times, she considers the eccentric artisan to be a friend.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[R'Elend Tia|R'elend Tia]]'''
| ''"He always seems to have trouble with his rigging. T'is a wonder he can set sail at all."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A Brass Blade who was recently transferred to the city from another tour. Coatleque has only recently met him, and has not had time to form any sort of opinion yet.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Roen Deneith|Roen Deneith, Ser]]'''
| ''"She was right. I was wrong. I would admit this to her every day if it could erase what was done."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | One of three Sultansworn whom Coatleque helped to exonerate. During Roen's imprisonment, Coatleque was her personal gaoler and attended her every morning and evening. Through their chats at night a friendship eventually bloomed. Later, Coatleque encouraged her friend to pursue a relationship with Nero Lazarov before either of them knew what the man was planning. To her regret, she eventually had to apprehend Roen once again in an attempt to draw the pirate out of hiding. Roen may never fully forgive her for this breach of trust, and Coatleque will always bear that scar on her conscience, but she maintains to this day that it was necessary to preserve the peace.

Since then, they have spoken only once under the watchful gaze of Halone's statue. Coatleque does not believe Roen wishes to see her again, and has no intention of pressing the issue.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Shaelen Stormchild]]'''
| ''"I often wonder... if the fates had been different, would I have been like her?"''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Smuggler and Ala Mhigan resistance member. Coatleque first met this woman while working to prove Roen's innocence of her false charges of spying. From there they have had limited interaction as the woman is rather aloof and nervous of being near law enforcement. Recently Coatleque has struck a deal with her to deliver Delial Grimsong into her hands in the exchange for information on where to find Nero Lazarov. An opportunity that seems to have been wasted.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Shas Tarry|Sharla Blackheart, Ser]]'''
| ''"She understands what it means to swear an oath. More than can be said of most paladins."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A veteran Paladin of the Order. Shas left the city under favorable terms a few years ago. She has since returned to Ul'dah and the Order and has been a tremendous help to Coatleque at reigning in all of the younger initiates. Shas tends to be more blunt than Crofte but she still keeps a rather level head. Since the opening of Ishgard's doors, the two have had need to travel to Coerthas for separate and personal reasons. Coatleque made sure they both had official orders as a cover to explain their time away from Ul'dah.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Thaliak's Axe|'Shooey']]'''
| ''"Careful. Once you get him started, the man never stops talking."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Seimei Ikari|Sei Castille]]'''
| ''"She and Lady Eglantine may get along swimmingly now."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A Miqo'te woman whom was previously set to wed Ser Warren Castille. For unknown reasons, the two had parted long ago. Coatleque helped Warren search Coerthas for her when she disappeared suddenly. Since then she has come back into Warren's life and the two have been competing for his affections. Warren chose his former love in the end. Coatleque does not trust her intentions and believes she will only hurt Warren again.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Septima Vitae|Septima Vitae]]'''
| ''"As a priestess of Menphina, she takes her duties quite... literally."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Spahro Llorn|Spahro Llorn]]'''
| ''"Despite all rumors to the contrary, Miss Llorn is in fact a person."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The scathingly angry reporter for the Tonberry's Lantern paper that is circulated across Eorzea. Miss Llorn never shies away from speaking her mind in and out of the papers. She has blasted both Jameson, and Crofte alike. For these reasons Coatleque avoids talking in her presence as much as possible. Still, there are occasions where the girl can sometimes come across as being almost friendly.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Tash Hollbrook|Tash Hollbrook]]'''
| ''"Perhaps the loosest of canons I have ever met. With the strongest of left hooks."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Vandol Morn|Vandol Morn]]'''
| ''"What in the Twelve hells is a 'chicken wing'?"''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | -Placeholder-
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Verad Bellveil|Verad Bellveil]]'''
| ''"The most honest man in Ul'dah that I know."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | One of the few honest merchants in Ul'dah. The man excels at selling low quality merchandise at overly affordable prices. In fact, most of his goods he practically gives away. Coatleque has yet to buy anything from him, but still keeps the 'plot device' he gave her just in case she has need for instant smoke in the middle of the desert. Having read his personal memoirs, she has a certain insight to the man that others may not have.
|}

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
| width="25%" | '''[[Warren Castille|Warren Castille, Ser]]'''
| ''"Next time our blades cross, it will be HE who loses a hand."''
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Often found in the Quicksand in past times. They were quickly drawn to each other and shared an intimate, though brief relationship. It ended when he left her to once again pursue his former love who had left him before. Coatleque has never quite gotten over his reasons, but understands them to the best of her abilities. The air around them has been tense since then, as former lovers tend to be.
|}
</div>

=Rumors=
__NOEDITSECTION__
(Please feel free to leave whatever IC rumors, true or not, that you want)
===PC Rumors===
<div style="font: 18px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
[[Alexei Volkov]]:<br/>
"The knight? Capable arm, dependable. Seems to be drawing much attention quickly. Good. Let her draw attention, vill continue to vork from shadows."
----
[[Askier Mergrey]]:<br/>
"She doesn't approve of my explosives. Well I don't approve of her not approving my explosives!"
----
[[Aya Foxheart]]:<br/>
*"She likes to keep an eye on the Quick Sand, and make sure that no one gets up to any trouble. She's the kind of Sultansworn that they're supposed to be. I trust her."<br/>
*"I'm not sure I've ever met anyone who so deserved things to go right for her - its such a shame that they never seem to. I'd do whatever I could for her, I'm lucky to call her a friend!"<br/>
*"Ser Crofte never seems to stop. I know she'll always do what's right, but sometimes it seems like she embraces the struggle too readily - she mustn't lose sight of what she's trying to protect. She needs to take time to stop and look around her, and remember the world in which she lives."<br/>
*"I fear Ser Crofte must find the strength to hold the pillars of Ul'dah; alone, if she must."
*"It has been so long since I have seen her." She sighs wistfully, "She would be a most welcome sight."
*''Rare Rumor'' "I know she found herself really wound up in something she shouldn't have. Sometimes I worry that is why I have not seen her..."
*"No... I really don't know what has become of her. But its not the same city without her..."
----
[[Berrod Armstrong]]:<br/>
"Well she ain't a sellout, I'll tell ya that. I done cat-called her on the street once. Was a real bastard 'bout it. Up ta now she ain't told nobody, and I even got a chance ta tell 'er sorry."
----
[[Cyneler Fenrir]]:<br/>
"She was my guide to the Sultansworn."
----
[[Delial Grimsong]]:<br/>
"I have said some unkind things of her, certainly. Imagine my surprise when the solution turned out to be wine!"
----
[[Edda Eglantine]]:<br/>
"She seems so sorrowful as of late, a far cry from the stoic woman I had initially taken her for. Perhaps I understand why, and yet…"
----
[[Evangeline Primrose]]:<br/>
"I used to think Lady Crofte was an Evil Bitch. Turns out she is just a bitch, and not bad as bitches go."
----
[[Fio Arasgain]]:<br/>
"One of the few who haven't been corrupted by gil in this cesspool of a city. I can only admire her sense of duty. However, would it kill her to take a day or two off?"
----
[[Franz Renatus]]:<br/>
*"I kept seeing her in the Quicksand after that one fight I had, but never talked to her. After ''that'' event, we've been talking more. She's more interesting than she lets on."<br/>
*"Have you seen her drink before? That girl with a steel will who is the symbol of being fair and just hides something else. I'd like to see it one day."
----
[[Gharen Wolfsong]]:<br/>
"She strikes me as an honorable woman, th' type te ne'er go against her word. I hope she's as incorruptible as th' mask she chooses fer everyone te see might indicate, lest th' pit o' vipers tha' is Ul'dah get th' better o' her."
----
[[Gideon North]]:<br/>
"I had at first presumed her to be a woman bound by duty, and of rigid adherence to code. It would be more accurate, I believe, to say that Miss Crofte will hesitate at... very little... to achieve her own ends. One might, however, see that as more respectable than the former."
----
[[Jana Ridah]]:<br/>
"I wish she could see the yoke lifted off her shoulders for what it was, but I am of no station fit to tell her so myself."
----
[[Jancis Milburga]]:<br/>
*"So many ask me about her. Wish to know her. I shall tell her you asked!"<br/>
*<i>Rarer Rumor</i> "Cici is the one who made me understand what family and life mean."
----
[[Kage Kiryuu]]:<br>
*"Ser Crofte is missing as well? This is ridiculous..."
----
[[Kahn'a Ohditra]]:<br>
*"I've treated with her as a Sultansworn. Beyond the uniform? Never."
----
[[Kale Aideron]]:<br/>
"Does she bloody smile? I ploughin' bet you I work 'arder than 'er, 'nd even -I- can kick back 'nd relax, least once a seven-day. But yea', fine, I like 'er. Knows what the fuck needs to be done, unlike the latest batch of pansy paladins 'trained' by Captain Jenlyns..."
----
[[Kiht Jakkya]]:<br/>
"Crofte? I still hardly know her, but we recently spent some time together... Learning about Dragons... I should go."
----
[[Lilithium Altair]]:<br/>
"I see her around all the time! Never spoken much with her though, save when she's kept Ado out of trouble."
----
[[L'yhta Mahre]]:<br/>
"I heard she was in charge of security at half the taverns in Eorzea! You definitely don't want to get on her bad side, at least if you want to get a drink anywhere outside of Mor Dhona!"
----
[[Natalie Mcbeef]]:<br/>
"She's not quite as annoying as I first thought. She wears the armor like she was born to do so, I wish I felt as comfortable in it."
----
[[Orrin Halgren]]:<br/>

"The Sultansworn? My experience with her is that she puts Ul'dah's safety above all other reason. It makes her commendable in service and obstructive in others..."
----
[[Obsidian Hornet]]:<br/>
"All the good intentions in the world don't mean a thing if you don't have the wit or skill to make good on them. Crofte means well but she needs to be better. I trust her, she's a good person, but her incompetence could get people killed. Herself included."
----
[[Oscare Iono]]:<br/>
"What was it, Wristcleaver? Wristbreaker? Bah, it doesn't matter. If you like your head on your shoulders though, it'd be smart to behave around her."
----
[[Osric Melkire]]:<br/>
"Ser Crofte? Aye, I know her. She 'n' I find ourselves workin' cross-purposes more often than either o' us would like. Would that that could change, eh?"
----
[[Remimont Portier]]:<br/>
"She appears to possess a remarkable sense of duty and justice both. All of my interactions with her feel as if I am speaking with a character from any number of novels I have read. Tis astounding to meet such a person in the flesh. She is an example, truly."
----
[[Roen Deneith]]:<br/>
"When we last spoke, I gave her a warning. That the man she loved would only bring her sorrow in the end. I did not wish to be proven right, but I know she is suffering now. Perhaps... she and I should speak again... and make amends."
----
[[Sharla Blackheart]]:<br/>
"For some reason, I feel she's one of the few people around that I willingly trust. Maybe I should tell her the truth one of these days."
----
[[Spahro Llorn]]:<br/>
"Crofte has this amazing ability to aquire power and forsake any responsibility to use it. It's like watching a dragon fret over whether or not it'll run out of eggs before it gets married."
----
[[Verad Bellveil]]:<br/>
"She's a good woman, so much so that I have no idea how she manages to tolerate my presence. Making me question my own dubiousness! A cunning plan."
----
[[Warren Castille]]:<br/>
"She's chosen. I wonder if she sleeps at night. Rumor says she doesn't."
----
[[X'Kohu Tia]]:<br/>
"Coat's an alright girl, got a good head on her shoulders and a good heart in her chest. Still, if she wants to keep patrolling taverns, she's gotta learn to hold her liquor!"
----

</div>
===NPC Rumors (Newer)===
<div style="font: 18px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "A pain in our collective arses she is, but we have orders to 'put up with her' for the time being."
:*<u>Ul'dahn Nobleman</u>: "Hrmpf... I see that Royalist wench coming and going from the estate of Taeros far to often. About time he produced an heir anyway."
:*<u>Sultansworn Squire</u>: "Don't you believe those naysayers. Ser Crofte is still as loyal to her Grace as she has ever been."
:*<u>Ala Mhigan Refugee</u>: *snorts* "Oh how the mighty have fallen."
</div>
===NPC Rumors (Older)===
<div style="font: 18px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
:*<u>Quicksand Patron</u>: "Poor woman can't hold her liquor. After just one drink she starts speaking in tongues or the like."
:*<u>Woman in Mourning</u>: "I've seen her in the Ossuary paying respects to some unknown man. They must have been close."
:*<u>Long-necked Sultansworn</u>: "If you see that Highlander buzzing around her again, tell him I'm watching him."
:*<u>Ul'dah Guttersnipe</u>: "I heard 'er talking te that pimp o'er in Pearl Lane. He sure put 'er in 'er place. Good te know she ain't as high 'n mighty as she thinks."
:*<u>Quicksand Patron</u>: "I seen her get'n all kissy-faced with that other Paladin. They think they're subtle, but they ain't."
:*<u>Random Palace Guard</u>: "Ser Crofte has paid the ultimate price for Her Grace, and by some miracle survived to serve again. She is an inspiration to all of us who swear the Oath."
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "She's all fancy talk and good looks. Keep the pressure on her and she'll go right back to 'er whore'n ways."
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "Oh, I remember her. Quite good with her mouth that one, mmm-hahahaha!"
:*<u>Random Brass Blade</u>: "She was my favorite. Just something about those eyes... and red hair. *sigh* Shame when we had to take that place down."
</div>

=Quotes=
[[File:Crofte_Sideglance.png|225px|right]]
<div style="font: 20px Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: 1em; padding: auto;">
"Look Jancis, I'm flying!" ~ while being carried to an inn room after too much wine<br/>
----
"I'm not a warrior like you, Tasa. I was supposed to be a house-wife!" ~ personal moment with Tasa Rhyzul<br/>
----
Jancis: "Can you see from back there?" Coatleque: "I can see exactly what I need to." ~ while watching Warren at the Grindstone
----
"Everyone is fragile, Ser. It merely depends on what height we are dropped from." ~ Advice given to Warren Castille
----
"Titles change often, Miss. You are what you chose to be. Remember what you are, and title may yet return in time." ~ Advice given to Roen Deneith
----
"Aye, he says mae subornimate has a plan. Which I think means Natalie is about tae step in shite again..." ~ After too much whiskey.
----
"Compassion is never wrong, but when you begin to show too much of it the line of justice becomes harder to cross. And then one day your enemies are as dear to your heart as your family." ~ to Roen, regarding due process
----
"The best games are those you do not know you are playing until the very end." ~ Words of Jameson Taeros over dinner
----
"One moment of reason in a sea of madness does not make for a smooth sail." ~ said to Osric Melkire before court martial
</div>

=Notable Events=
The following is a list of forum threads that detail specific encounters and longer plots. Some may be continuing, some may be completed, and others may have been chance encounters.
{|
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=13574 Outside of Passion]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte / Edda Eglantine
| Status: In Progress
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Jameson is back, but has his heart changed?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=10212 What You Are in the Dark]'''
| Thread Owner: Nero Lazarov / Roen Deneith
| Status: Concluded
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | As pressure mounts and darkness closes in, we are who chose to be. The rivalry between Taeros and Lazarov reaches its conclusion for all involved.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8634 The Coming Storm]'''
| Thread Owner: Nero Lazarov / Roen Deneith
| Status: Concluded
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | After the events of '''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8223 The Forlorn Fortnight]''' and '''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7981 No Good Deed]''', Lazarov escalates his plans for Ul'dah in full force.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9190 Scales in the Sand]'''
| Thread Owner: Verad Bellveil
| Status: Concluded
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | What happens when contraband from Ishgard is randomly distributed among the populace of Ul'dah? Dragons in Thanalan!
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8325 Dear CiCi]'''
| Thread Owner: Jancis Milburga
| Status: On-going
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Personal letters and private musings of Coatleque's dear friend [[Jancis Milburga | Jancis]] written to her from the Mist.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7390 Chronicles of a Sultansworn in (the) Heat]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte
| Status: On-going
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Random encounters and musings of one of Ul'dah's knights.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9165 Paladin's Proof]'''
| Thread Owner: Chachanji Gegenji
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Chachanji Gegenji would like to be a paladin. Coatleque has given him a task to set him on his way.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9327 Coincidence and Happenstance]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef / Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | What happens when a loyal dog of the state and a bleeding heart of the people are locked in an elevator?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8756 A Renewal of Trust]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Unknown
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | With Natalie gone, Coatleque is now the closest to Taeros. For her friend's sake she means to spy on him. But is there something more there?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=9285 Of Service and Brotherhood]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Unfinished
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Ser Crofte takes a group of new initiates on an important mission for the Palace to teach them to work together.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8995 The Wandering Warrior]'''
| Thread Owner: G'leo Nunh
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | A high value target is wandering lose in Ul'dah. He may have been caught, to, if not for Evangeline's quick thinking.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8852 The Rights of All]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Evangeline Primrose, self-proclaimed savior of the common man, has setup her soap box in the city square. How long can she pontificate before the guards silence her?
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8630 Remnants of a Life Inexpertly Led]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | With Natalie gone, Coatleque has been designated executor of her estate.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8039 A Cup of Tea?]'''
| Thread Owner: Aya Foxheart / Coatleque Crofte
| Status: Unfinished
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | While Warren is away, Coatleque spends a day to relax with Aya away from the Quicksand.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8759 Clearing the Air]'''
| Thread Owner: Osric Melkire
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | Rumors abound and trust is hard to keep. Sometimes you need to speak frankly.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7924 The Crooked Phoenix Emporium]'''
| Thread Owner: Crooked Tarot
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | There is a new shop in town. Ser Crofte performs one of her routine inspections while on another case.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8238 The Hand That Feeds You]'''
| Thread Owner: Natalie Mcbeef
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" |
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7510 An Unscheduled Luncheon]'''
| Thread Owner: Coatleque Crofte / Warren Castille
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | The budding relationship between Crofte and Castille.
----
|-
|'''[http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=7280 Second Hand Faith]'''
| Thread Owner: Roen Deneith
| Status: Completed
|-
| colspan="3" style="text-indent: 1em;" | After a Ceruleum core goes missing and three Knights are demoted as an example, Jenlyns reluctantly sics his latest upstart on the problem.
|}

<headertabs />

Kage Kiryuu

2015-12-28T06:33:29Z

Kage: /* Screenshots of IC Scenes */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - to be added and named

'''Lesser Panda:''' - to be added and named

'''Hawk:''' - to be added and named

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.
File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png|Kage and Delial chance upon finding Ser Crofte in Ishgard.
File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png|Having no leads or further clues, Kage returns for a moment's respite. He learns of Carina's pregnancy and he is happy to be with family and friends.
File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png|Kage learns more about the Red Lotus from [[Tiergan Vashir]] and [Chachanji Gegenji]] as he learns about the aether and blood.
File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png|Being found by [[Brynnalia Callae]] sparks a meeting between Kage, Callae, and Delial. The meeting spurs the two to start working again.
File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png|Kage and a warbear [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fight and trade blows, ultimate befriending each other]. Kage later gives the warbear the name, Baloo.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:ScreenKageFightsBaloo.png

2015-12-28T06:30:52Z

Kage:

File:ScreenMeetingCallaewDel.png

2015-12-28T06:29:19Z

Kage:

File:ScreenMeetingCallae.png

2015-12-28T06:28:21Z

Kage:

File:ScreenKageChachanTierganRedLotus1stBlood.png

2015-12-28T06:26:30Z

Kage:

File:ScreenKageReturnsforaBreakandLearns.png

2015-12-28T06:23:40Z

Kage:

File:ScreenKageDelfindCrofte.png

2015-12-28T06:21:45Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2015-12-28T06:20:12Z

Kage: /* In Character Images and Art */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - to be added and named

'''Lesser Panda:''' - to be added and named

'''Hawk:''' - to be added and named

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png|Portrait art gifted and by [http://i-zex.tumblr.com Iex].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:KagefullfinalbyIzex.png

2015-12-28T06:18:20Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2015-12-27T22:54:34Z

Kage: /* Out of Character Images */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

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=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - to be added and named

'''Lesser Panda:''' - to be added and named

'''Hawk:''' - to be added and named

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].
File:Adventurer Friends - By Strawberri Star.png| Gift from [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].
File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png|Gift from [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin] by [http://raylennzoltar.tumblr.com raylennzoltar].

</gallery>

<headertabs/>
|}

==Annotations==
This Template was created by [[Deirdre Ta'ea]] with tabs added.
Unfortunately, with the tabs the sections' edit markers are misleading. Try to use the edit for the whole page or the edit for the small section itself (ie, player character rumors).

File:SmolKagebyraylennzoltar.png

2015-12-27T22:51:27Z

Kage:

Kage Kiryuu

2015-12-27T05:17:15Z

Kage: /* Mounts */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Kage Kiryuu
| image = Kageinfo.png
| imagewidth = 250
| gender = Male
| citizenship = Ul'dah
| race = Lalafell
| clan = Dunesfolk
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 25
| stat_2 = Height
| stat_2_value = 2' 10"
| server = Balmung
| stat_3 = Time Zone
| stat_3_value = PST (GMT-8 Standard, GMT-7 Daylight Savings)
}}

==Character==
===General===
Kage is a Dunesfolk Lalafell whose family has lived in the Thanalan for many, many years. He was traveling through Thanalan, the Clutch area, when he spied something that festered a strange feeling within him. He was driven and inspired by the events he saw; of Papashan and other Sultansworn coming to the aid of another. It became the driving force within him to train to be a paladin and to eventually become Sultansworn. This led to him meeting with the Sultansworn, Natalie, as well as others that she knew. He has since realized that the politics of the job and those of Ul'dah were that in which he's not capable of handling. Disillusioned, he's since left the Sultansworn order, taking up the axe.

===Appearance===
Kage is the shortest an adult male Dunesfolk Lalafell can be. He has blue hair with highlights of a red shade. His head is constantly topped by a white beret or some other ridiculous hat though the white beret is a near constant. He normally carries an axe as his weapon of choice. One of his axes has a long thick noticeable chain. The other axe that Kage favors is a very sharp bladed battle axe.

===Behavior===
Once he's comfortable and willing to open up, Kage will be happy to give people as good as he takes it. He's shy, soft-spoken, reserved and mild-mannered but also playful when with friends. He cares very much for those he becomes friends with. As such, he does not take well to being insulted for seeing whether his friends are in danger or being harassed. Only his self-restraint keeps him from lashing out at someone physically or violently for doing so. He's very forceful when he feels like his friends need to be defended from physical or personal attack. He does not easily make friends by himself, usually making friends from friends. He can be found sitting on the rail in Quicksand, outside of Quicksand by Ruby Road, or sitting at a table in the Airship landing. Kage finds it very hard to lie to people to their faces and usually would prefer not to unless for a good reason. Thus, he hates it when people lie to him. He has a lot of anxieties about himself, but he's started to grow stronger as his training progresses. He believes in his friends and is generally too "goody two shoes". He wouldn't enforce this belief unto others, especially his friends, unless he thought that the trouble for them is too much or if it puts them into danger. He doesn't like it when his friends get hurt, being upset that they would not ask him for help or for him to cover their backs. He does not have a rigid sense of judgment only a subjective right or wrong on how people are affected.

===Combat===
While Kage is skilled with manipulating his own aether, he highly prefers not doing so. The payback factor remains, where when he might use it there is a high chance of it exploding on him. Like all paladins before him, Kage received brief lessons and training in conjury as well as healing arts. He may be able to tend to a wound, he certainly cannot do major surgery.

===Hobbies===
* Whittling
* Reading novels
* Fishing
* Smithing
* Listening to the hustle and bustle of the people who frequent bars.

{|

=Relationships=
==Family==
Kage's mother's side of the family had a heavy focus in thaumaturgy and a few tomes ready for study on some black magicks. Kage's father comes from a family who specialized in goldsmithing. His father does quite well in goldsmithing so that Kage and his family were never in want. Kage has two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister. His brother continues the family's goldsmithing business while his sister has turned to alchemy. Kage was disowned by his family when he was, later found to be temporarily, transformed into a Miqo'te. Perhaps, he wasn't disowned by all of them if his gift was any indication.

'''[[Roen Deneith]]:''' Kage first met Roen right after he approached Natalie about Paladins and Sultansworn. She was introduced to him as a Paladin in-training. Natalie nominated Roen to mentor Kage of sorts. At first, the two did not seem to know how it would work but throughout each individuals' training, Kage realized that Roen would be a good friend. He thinks her very worthy of the Sultansworn title, believing that she deserves it more than he does even. He now sees Roen as part of his family and he would do everything and anything he could for her. He is stubbornly and fiercely protective of Roen. He has let the distance between them grow, believing that she is far and above beyond him.

'''[[Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa]]:''' Kage calls him 'Ilwe'. Kage met this Keeper out of the blue at the Red Wings FC Charity Fundraising Event for a new home. While Kage felt very out of place, he sat by the man's silent, yet comforting side, keeping his distance unsure if it was overstepping his boundaries by doing so. In fact, Kage is sure that he must have overstepped boundaries when he gave in to a surprising, overwhelming urge to pet and scratch Ilwe'ran's hair when the Miqo'te crouched down. Kage's impression of him is that he will be a true friend and has quickly become quite protective of him, cementing his instinct.

==Friends==
Kage has made a variety of friends in the city of Ul'dah, especially so in Momodi's fine establishment at the Quicksand.

'''[[Salem Nunh]]:''' One of his first and closest friends in Ul'dah. No matter how long they have not spoken to each other they are able to continue on as if they had seen each other 5 minutes past. The Miqo'te does so love to tease the Lalafell with his constant flirts.

'''[[Delial Grimsong]]:''' She once had great reason to hate him. After all, it was in Kage's misguided attempts to assist Roen while fulfilling his duties to Ul'dah did Grimsong lose some fingernails to Natalie. He finds the highlander very stubborn but.. he is quite fond of her sometimes. Kage respects her, and while working with her he would rather she speak. He is also quite happy that she does not actively show any explicit signs of hate towards him, one could say that he is happy when she seems to think well of him. He enjoys their rapport. If it could be described as such.

==Acquaintances==
Kage's met so many people, some of them very fleeting. He hasn't had time to get to know them. But maybe they'll be someone he'll die for as a friend.

'''[[Alexaria Whiteraven]]:''' Kage loves to listen to her! One of the first that Kage met in Ul'dah, her advice has lived with him long since. She once told him to fake it until he made it. And he has. He might even still be faking it to this day, but perhaps he's gained a little courage that he hadn't when he first met her... and it is all because of her.

'''[[Chachanji Gegenji]]:''' Kage's not sure how he feels about this lalafell, but it's all good. Chachan reminds Kage of himself, or rather what he used to see himself as before his life took such an about turn. The lalafellin youth is actually far more than Kage can hope to be, even though Chachan is younger than Kage by quite a few years. Kage hopes that the young guy achieves his goals; he's deserving of it.

'''[[Edda Eglantine]]:''' While she may not have realized it, Kage first met Miss Edda outside of the Ul'dahn gates after the fight there with Jin'li's collared peoples. After that, he'd seen her more often at the house in Goblet before Kage ran away. He's since seen her once more at the Caroline Canopy, where they talked about what has passed and Franz.

==Enemies==
Kage is generally easy to get along with and so far has not had the need nor the want to make enemies. However, he has started to have a bit of a dislike for those with lances. He's had quite a few unsavory meetings with those who wield those weapons.Though, it could be said that he particularly doesn't like [[Jameson Taeros]].

==It's Twelve-Damned Complicated==
'''[[Unnamed Mercenary|Franz]]:''' It's so complicated. The man has done many things, making Kage feel like the highlander had ruined his life for quite a bit. The stalking and the harassment. But now... Twelve have mercy does Kage have some fondness for him? It certainly is not what Kage felt for others such as Frhanz'ir or Salem, not at all. But, the Lalafell didn't hate him. He... cared for him. Why? The Lalafell struggles with this.

'''[[Natalie Mcbeef]] (Deceased):''' While previously he had only ever entertained the thought of being a Paladin and then Sultansworn after seeing Papashan, Natalie gave him the advice and courage to move forward. He viewed her as many things: mentor, friend, family... lover. Her death had left him devastated for a time, picking up the axe as the sword and shield were too much for him to bear with tainted memories. He's grown resentful of her memory and past.

=History (Spoilers)=
==The Before==
His mother raised Kage to be the heir of sorts of her family line since his oldest brother was and continues to be his better at shaping the fine and malleable metals that Kage was only average at best at. He ruined the gold metals and others. Kage has a fairly decent amount of control over the large amount of aether he has so his mother put him on that path. It was not a fulfilling life prospect and so a few years after the Calamity Kage found his life changing.

Traveling through the Thanalan, The Clutch area, Kage observed an incident in which several Sultansworn came to the aid of a fellow. They were led by a Lalafell. Kage wasn't sure about how things came to be but he soon felt something in himself that wanted change. He wanted to do something with his life and not just follow the flow his family had set for him. Leaving against the protests of his mother, Kage packed his things and left for Ul'dah. He hid his aetherial disposition unless the very odd jobs that he took required them, and only if no one would be the wiser. He asked for help and advice, receiving it from those he'd made contact with.

==The Journey==
Kage did not make these contacts easily. Nor did he ask for help so easily either. Through time and his initial correspondence with Natalie Mcbeef he was able to foster relationships and himself. He was introduced to Roen Deneith and many more. His aetherial proficiency came to surface when his friends showed that they might be in trouble. In a small confrontation between Marrow and a few others, he tried to use his magic to get Marrow and others out of the incident. It then became useful when dealing with a friend's, Salem Nunh's, crisis.

Kage had since started to wind down and relax, focusing on his training to be better at using a sword and shield. He recently undertook the Sultansworn Trials alongside Roen. Erik Mynhier administered the Trial of Faith to Kage first. While lounging in the Quicksand and speaking with Natalie, he was surprised by the Trial of Courage Natalie decided to administer to him. He and Roen took the Trial of Loyalty together under Anelia Sadowyn. They left not knowing whether they passed or failed. After watching Roen's own Trial of Courage, Kage learned of his failing the Trial of Loyalty. Upon re-trial of the Trial of Loyality with his friend Lambert Arkwright, they were told by Anelia that Kage and Lambert passed.

In between the Trials, Kage heard Natalie call for assistance from those harassing her and Kayah. He went to support her only to be insulted and offended by one of the masked, hooded, or helmed lancers.

==The Royal Ball of Ul'dah and its Aftermath==
Kage and Roen were sworn and mere days later the Royal Ball of Ul'dah was had. During that time Kage met and befriended another Lalafell named Rurutani Sasatani, quickly becoming close. After a small mission to look into the lancers from before to see if they meant Ul'dah or Ul'dahn citizens harm, Kage suggested that Ruru apply to become a Sultansworn recruit. It was thus then that Kage became Ruru's mentor. Kage was able to accompany [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]] at the ball for a short while, enjoying her company outside having sparred with her. He had to leave for some small time to guard the Sultana as she met with audiences but soon after Kage was relieved of his duties. When he found Denn once more she quickly told him she had to leave. Kage left the ball and returned shortly after, noticing that Natalie was not there anymore. Afterwards Natalie returned to the ball and let slip that both Natalie and Denn had had a tryst together. Distraught, Kage told his friends over the pearl that he would be somewhere else. His friends followed him, worried, but he ran away to the Airship bar that he liked to frequent to be alone. There he found someone who he had met awhile before, a female Keeper named Suri. He knew Suri to be acquainted with or thought to be friends of Natalie and Kayah. Knowing of the complicated relationship he did not tell Suri why he was upset when she tried to ask. After a few drinks, Kage swore to put this behind him as he was friends and family with Natalie and Kayah first. While he believed there was more to Denn than just a fighter, he would rather see his relationship with Natalie ok. He left the bar and his hat and headed to the ball. He found Natalie and Kayah arguing and he paused. He walked towards the Alchemists' Guild but knew he would rather repair this. He walked back to try and talk to them only for them to leave angry and hurt. Having felt as if he was the cause for his friends, Kage broke down crying where they once stood as he heard Natalie break her pearl. After awhile, deciding that he would return to drinking he headed to the Alchemist's Guild's Aetheryte shard only to find a scene that would hit him to the core. Kayah lay on the floor, beaten and bloodied with his head caved in slightly. The attackers were hooded, masked or helmed but he could tell that at least two were Roegadyn female and one was a Miqo'te female pugilist. With one last knife stab into Kayah's back the leader called her group to leave. Only with help from Natalie's friends in the Night Blades did Kayah's fate not turn to the worst imaginable. Kage returned to the airship bar for his hat as well as to tell Suri about Kayah. There he found out that for a moment Suri was involved and it related to her being able to take out Natalie. Enraged, Suri left to deal with the one she only knew of as a tall purple haired female Roegadyn.

Left to himself, Kage tried to do all he could to find information about this Roegadyn and her band. Soon afterwards he found Suri, who he found out was beaten and tortured for telling Kage any information about the Roegadyn and a perceived betrayal on the Roegadyn's part. Kage learned that he best lay low as Suri had been told to silence him. She obviously was not there to do so but to make sure that Kage lived. Roen, dealing with her own troubles still, found him after receiving word from Natalie. Knowing that Roen had much on her plate, Kage did not tell her the extent of what he was going through and only told her some things. She left him be, trusting him to confide in her. While trying to lay low, Kage failed and was attacked in Pearl Lane just outside of the Quicksand by a female pugilist Miqo'te. In the process, Kage received a head injury and a snapped arm while his friend Ruru took a blow meant to kill Kage to his eye. Denn showed up and took them both to be healed after Roswyn revived Kage to consciousness.

It was at this time Kage retreated into himself, in a world of self-pity and self-despair. Feeling as if he had failed Ruru and that the other Lalafell would hate him, Kage did not actively seek out the other. Natalie soon returned and it was then Kage almost gave up on his life. He had faltered, for a bit, and it had nearly broke him and his oaths. It was then that things with Roen's plight came to light as well and she also lectured Kage, making him realize that though he was burdened he did fail his friend Ruru. He had left him alone. Kage tracked him down in La Noscea and the two had words. All was said and done, their bonds renewed, hopefully for the stronger. Returning to Ul'dah, Natalie tasked Kage with the tracking of one Highlander female who Roen had informed them of. Delial Grimsong. After seeing her speaking with Chokho outside of Quicksand, making a deal, Kage hoped to make his own deal with her to ensure Roen's deal would come out well while dealing with anyone who might serve to deal Ul'dah harm. However, a masked female Roegadyn started to spread inflammatory remarks, defaming Kage in the public. She even called him out in front of the whole Quicksand while he was there, insulting him by calling him a traitor. He and Natalie let her be, deciding that she was just deranged. With Ruru's skills and reconnaissance after Kage mentioned having seen her outside of Quicksand speaking with Chokho and making a deal, Natalie and Kage interrogated Delial over her interests in Ul'dah. Kage was clearly uncomfortable, knowing what this might do for Roen's deal. Soon afterwards he would find out that it soured things for them all.

Having reaffirmed his place with Natalie, Kayah, and another in an urban tribe of sorts, Kage was taken from behind as he stood on the railing in Quicksand as per his usual. A blade held to his back, the masked Roegadyn from before told him if he cooperated nothing would happen. Some of Kage's friends were present and noticed that something was amiss, most especially the Free Paladin Nazeru Auronas. A chase out to the steps ended with Kage being wounded. Nazeru got him back into Ul'dah, where quick aid was applied. Ser Anelia Sadowyn answered a call for help where she took Kage to a clinic once Natalie saw that Kage would be safe in her hands. While being tended to by Ser Anelia, a call over one of his linkpearls alerted Kage in his weary state that they had been able to track down the Roegadyn. When he expressed his desire to help, his loved ones told him his only job was to rest. Resigned, he stayed still at the clinic but he encouraged Ser Anelia that perhaps lending her medical aid would be a boon. It was a complete surprise to him when she decided to take him with her. He had only had time to tell Denn who had called him worried that he didn't know where he was but that he was headed to Camp Drybone, where he found himself in the middle of a chaotic field of battle. Right until he was hastily barreled over, being taken up into the arms of a heavily armed, axe-wielding Roegadyn. It was a stand-off as Natalie held the attempted kidnapping Roegadyn and the new Roegadyn held Kage with an axe to his throat. In the end, Natalie took the one to be interrogated, Kage was thrown away as the Axe-wielding one teleported away. Soon after Kage was forced by his loved ones to rest, having been forced to ingest a tea that knocked him out for a bit so that his breathing would get better. Later, Kage learned who exactly these two Roegadyn were.

==The Break==
Kayah and Natalie had had some arguments, resulting in Kayah leaving. Kage found him at the Sanctum of the Twelve, in an effort to find out the cause of this rift. Not seeing how he could get Kayah from permanently leaving Kage slowly made his way back home, and finding a baby opo-opo. Making it back to Ul'dah and feeling as if his life was breaking apart, Kage never made it back to the place that was considered his home. Despondently, he sat outside of the Quicksand, unmoving until Natalie came to him to set him right. The tribe was together again until a series of incidents tore them apart once more. An attack on Lolorito's house was blamed on C'kayah Tia. Breaking a promise to Kage, he left without a word. Kage knew that Kayah was innocent but was upset that he had left. Kage was sent on a mission to La Noscea, rumors abound of Kayah being sighted there. Kage met Suri, bringing her business and bad news. He however was quite glad to see her happy and seemingly engaged. Soon, Kayah and Natalie spoke together, bringing Kage into the conversation that broke it apart. Kayah had plans as his head was now wanted by two forces. While Kage was simply concerned and wanted to offer his aid, Kayah insisted that Natalie should speak to Osric with Kage or not at all. Natalie left, leaving Kage and Kayah to talk. Kayah perceived this as abandonment and the tribe was no more.

Meeting with Natalie in Limsa Lominsa, they found Roen with her brother. After finding out that Roen would be returning to the city once more, Kage and Natalie spoke. It was then that Kage found out exactly what was happening. Kayah had left and Kage blamed the Flame. He had left his pearls behind and the tribe was in danger of being broken apart once more. Natalie said that the tribe needed a leader, the one that protected the tribe and kept it safe to grow together, the nunh. In a moment of desperation and resolve, Kage told Natalie that he would take it. He would become the one to keep the tribe together and protected, so that all the ones he loved would have a place. She agreed.

In Ul'dah once more having had a fruitless search for C'kayah Tia, Kage resumed his work until he dug into it. He was dead. In disbelief, Kage drank his sorrows away at the Quicksand but his friends told him that they doubted Kayah could be dead. Kage resolved to find the Flame and when he did he found out that Kayah was alive. And yet, he had not returned. He had not spoken to them at all. Kage told Osric that the Flame should try to keep out of his business and his life and parted ways. Speaking one night in the Quicksand speaking with Aya, Kage was pushed over by an armored axe-wielder. Kage insisted that the man follow him outside of the Quicksand where the man took a swing at him with his axe. Kage blocked the blow, as onlookers came out and he called for them to not interfere. Kage tried to force the man out of the gates when he grabbed Kage and teleported them to Eastern Thanalan. There Kage realized that the man was the same Garlean mercenary that he had fought with during the Mergrey bomb incident. A Garlean experiment caused strange aetheric events that Kage could not even resort to his magicks of old to fight against. Kage was able to deal a blow to the Mercenary before an axe swing threw Kage onto this back. The mercenary grew bored and left, leaving Kage to head back to Ul'dah and heal.

After soothing Aya's concerns and a quick heal for the most serious of sores, Kage walked out of the quicksand into Pearl lane only to happen onto Kayah. In an angry exchange of words, Natalie came upon them as well. It ended with C'kayah leaving and Kage in despair over his relationship with C'kayah Tia. It looked like it was not going to be the same ever again. While in his heart Kage hopes that he can see Kayah once more, he has more pressing issues such as keeping his family together and happy.

==A Blade Dulled but a Heart Refined==
In time, Natalie and Kage's concealment of what they knew of Roen's dealings caught up to the three. A hand with connections in the Syndicate looking to get their focus off had them disgraced and they were transferred to the Brass Blades. Kage soon realized that this had something to do with Roen and had resolved to do anything and everything he could so that she would not have that attention come to light.

After one morning patrol, Kage had been heading home via the Aetheryte in the plaza. As he was in the process of using it he was, unbeknownst to him, knocked out by the Garlean mercenary once more. Bells later he woke up in Crescent Cove almost naked and in a different form. Under some force and guidance by some such as C'kayah, he grew to accept some of the new changes to him. Soon after he had to prove to the Brass Blades as he was ordered to retrieve gil from the Quicksand while Monetarist or Brass Blade spies watched him. Momodi was not there and alas Aya was the one Kage had to pursue. This led to Aya fleeing and Kage could not follow. He ended his report truthfully up to that point and then lied to the Brass Blades about how he came up with more gil than was ordered to retrieve.

Kage found out that a deal Natalie made with Jameson Taeros included giving them Gharen Wolfsong, Roen's brother. For this Natalie was going to get Roen's freedom and amnesty, no fear of being hanged as a Garlean spy. But in order to give Gharen to Jameson, Natalie had Askier Mergrey kidnap and take Roen away until Natalie received the documents for Roen's freedom. Instead, Roen and Askier came under torture by Crim, an offensive Roegadyn that Kage had had the displeasure of meeting and working with twice before he found out Crim's role in Roen's disappearance. A team of Natalie, Kage and Osric Melkire got Gharen out of his imprisonment and later a large group went to find Roen and Askier. In the end, Natalie cut Roen free, free of any duty to Ul'dah... and free of any ties to Natalie herself. Kage retrieved Roen's items and gave them to Melkire, asking him to deliver the bundle to its owner, Roen. Unknown to many, it held Kage's goodbye to Roen: a white feathered beret.

Conversations made him very wary and anxious, especially that of Melkire's. Kage was desperate, hell bent on making sure that Natalie did not die. By her own hands or Melkire's. Or Jameson Taeros's. This made Kage approach both Commander Swift of the Immortal Flames as well as Jameson Taeros.

Captain Anden Anduron summoned Kage's presence after the Captain spoke to Natalie. He promoted Kage to Lieutenant and instructed him to bring Roen in for desertion. He also told Kage that Natalie was demoted for 'fraternizing with a subordinate' as it showed favoritism and could lower units' morale. He was clear that if Kage continued with Natalie, that Kage would be strung up in the square and castrated. In his instructions to Kage to bring Roen, he was willing to give him 10 men. All this culminated in Kage's decision. He would first approach Roen. Upon return to Ul'dah, he would resign from the Brass Blades and confess to his sins. Kage received a missive from Commander Swift that he would also speak to the Captain about when he resigned.

Upon arrival, Kage notified Natalie and they went to speak with Captain Anduron together. He already knew. Anduron listed the names of the men that were killed, more than those that Kage had slain himself. The Captain saved him from execution, stating that by keeping Kage in the Brass Blades they would punish him in-house for the deaths. When Kage was to meet with the Captain, a hooded man attempted to assassinate the Brass Blades Captain. He severely wounded Stank Balls Mcbeef and was able to use smoke bombs to cover his teleportation. Kage was hit upside the head another day and met the would-be assassin, Xydane Vale, when he awoke. Natalie and Franz found him as he had commented on the suspicious nature that the man had approached Kage in before Kage was knocked unconscious. Xydane left once more, later sending a missive stating that he would leave matters to the people of Ul'dah and Kage decided that he would not pursue him. ... after all, inside, Kage wished he could have stabbed Stank Balls himself for what he did to Roen. With the Captain missing and news of Jin'li growing ever worse, Kage dug around. Unfortunately, all news were too late. An attack on the gates drew him outside of the Gates of Thal where he encountered 2 females, one of whom he recognized as Hornet. He wounded the helmed female fighting Hornet as the Roegadyn fell but a shout from the attacker's companion made him suspect who it was. After getting Hornet sorted out Kage learned of the events that had unfolded. The attack had been a diversion and a couple hundreds were dead from poisoned waters. Soon after the reports of the poison, Kage's suspicions were confirmed. One of the attackers was Franz and the other... the other was Natalie who had been under Jameson Taeros's orders. Natalie spoke with Taeros and returned a Sultansworn once more as Kage learned of what Jin'li's next plans for Ul'dah were from Ros. Kage sent word to all the Brass Blades he could command as well as just notify about Jin'li and his appearance. Using the dead to make an army of voidsent powered bodies with a Black Mage ally. The use of a bomb with a cerulean core.

When Kage finally caught wind of Jin'li, he had entered the city through the Gate of the Sultana playing a violin. Natalie and Franz distracted him as Kage attempted to sneak up and subdue the Miqo'te. While Kage's attack was successful, he ultimately fell to two gunblade shots to his chest and a fireball burn. Natalie and Franz pursued but only Franz could continue after Jin'li while Natalie brought one of the Miqo'te's assassin agents. Using this injury, Kage resigned from the Brass Blades with no resistance as Captain Anduron was still missing.

After a long hard talk with Natalie, Kage resolved himself back onto his path. He once swore an oath to not falter and should he stumble, he had faith in his fellows. He desired to rejoin the Sultansworn once more and has told both Natalie and Roen this. After visiting Roen in the Sultansworn gaols, he has decided to seek out Delial Grimsong in hopes of finding a Highlander by the name of Shaelen, in order to clear Gharen's name as Kage is confident that Roen would be cleared.

With the Sultansworn Crofte taking over the investigation Kage was able to make contact with The Rose. While wary, Kage accepted the miqo'te's plans to change his life, and make anew in order for Cicero to recant his inflammatory accusation of Roen being a spy for the Garlean Empire. This also meant that Kage found a place for the Rose in the Brass Blades and would not speak of his former affiliations with the Garlean Empire. With this recanting, Roen was cleared of all charges as well as Gharen. The names of the Sultansworn involved were cleared and all approved to return from their suspensions.

==The Transition (WIP) ==
Certain events caused Kage to believe that the best course of action was to purchase the supplies needed to defend his house and home. In doing so, he took out a mortgage on the house from Ul'dahn bankers to purchase Ishgardian steel cannons. In order to start repaying the loans back, Kage had both opened his house to others as well as those who need a cheaper place to live than in the Inn all the time. After watching Natalie make it to the Championship round of the Grindstone, Kage decided to test his worth as well. He too made it to the Championship round but he fell and yielded when he was distracted by his thoughts on Natalie and Faine.

In the meantime, Kage has been informed that he was to be the mentor of one Lalafell, [[Koporo Aporo]] into his own trials of the Sultansworn. This has left Kage with both apprehension and resolve. Especially after the debacle that Kage made for Rurutani... he is worried he might do the same once again. Tensions and the belief that Natalie did not trust him led to a small fight. Right after he casted a ring to propose to her, he was beaten and left for dead in Pearl Lane. The attack him left him without much memory and he'd only been left with a few items, such as his smithing kit. He had stayed in Limsa with a Blacksmith master who helped foster Kage's smithing talent, something he found to be much more... wieldy than goldsmithing ever was. One night he woke up as a Lalafell and the shock of it to his system brought back his memories. He returned to Ul'dah and his home.

When he found out that Natalie died in a botched raid, Kage suspected Taeros' hand in it. No matter what. What was once his favorite sword has become something of a botched nightmare for him to look at. His grief turned Kage into a recluse. He drank a lot, spending time at the pubs or occasionally at the Grindstone. He spent his time investing his money or taking on leves.

=Most Recent Events=
==Recent Events==
Kage then found himself in the Lavender Beds, hearing that his former Paladin mentor, Erik and his free company were trying to raise funds for a home. Kage was quite uncomfortable in the setting, finding solace by sitting next to a young Keeper and a female Hyur who didn't seem to speak much. It was when an Elezen maid for an Ul'dahn merchant approached the Keeper that the Lalafell learned his name, Ilwe'ran. Very curious, and relishing in the kind atmosphere that Kage found with the Keeper, Kage followed out of curiosity and concern. After some misbehavior, Kage offered to accompany the Keeper in his meeting with the Ul'dahn merchant, Rhea.

Kage has been in Ishgard, keeping a Lalafellin eye on one Roen Deneith. While he keeps his distance, he is firm in the opinion that he needs to be quite near at all times, fearing that her life is in danger. He has gotten closer to Delial Grimsong, having apologized to her. The two of them have spoken together with Roen and seem to be acting as a team, though they try to make sure that they are not quite associated with each other as they know that Kage's race casts suspicions upon himself by the native populace. The two are investigating a certain woman along with [[Kiht Jakkya]] as well as the disappearance of [[Gharen Wolfsong]], Roen's brother.

Delial and Kage worked together as well as separately, trying to gain the trust of those in the Brume hoping to find information on the woman. When it seemed like they were going to be able to pay their way for some information and get a lead, a large hulking figure of a Nameless Warrior arrived and killed two of the three who had arrived for the meeting. One man lost his arm and fled, leading to the destroyed fragile connections that they had worked for. Afterwards, though they had a room at the Forgotten Knight, Kage thought it best to find another place for the two after Delial received a direct correspondence from the Nameless Warrior out of fear for Delial's safety and wanting more space for the two. The constant demand for Roen made Kage think of something in the past that he heard Natalie once do. She had found a courtesan who looked remarkably like Roen who agreed to take Roen's place in a Sultansworn gaol for a small night out. He approached her, telling her of all the dangers, risks and details. The sultry courtesan, named Hestia Redde, had the rot and was moons away from death. Even though her death was almost certain, she agreed with some conditions and met with Delial and the Nameless Warrior, posing as Roen. One of the conditions was that Kage was not to be there as Hestia knew that more than likely the Lalafell's presence would lead to his destruction of the attempt to deceive the Warrior. The Lalafell found her snow covered body and burned her body with a pouch of gil to pay his respects.

==Where Kage can be found at the Moment==
Current location: Ishgard and its surrounding areas. He was once staying at the Forgotten Knight trying to gain the trust and information from some of the residents of the Brume; however, the arrival of and subsequent slaughter by a Nameless Warrior destroyed that chance. His current lodgings are not as public though it can be noticed that he still resides in Ishgard.

Mail can be forwarded to him from his stay in Ilwe'ran's clan home in the Lavender Beds or to the Ishgardian Post. He can also be reached by Linkpearl if one has been provided or shared.

==Other Hooks==
===Red Lotus Plot - The Nutkin===
The stone has a crude etch of a nutkin.

=Mounts, Pets, Companions=
==Mounts==
'''Shiron:''' A large amber draught Chocobo that came into Kage's care when he first started his journey into being a paladin. A young Miqo'te had left the Chocobo behind, running away from danger in the Thanalan desert. Once Kage dealt with the dangers, he was left with a large bird whom he decided to take care of and care for. Shiron's down is amber, similar to the sunset with white tips. Currently Shiron has been at The Driftin' Sol after Kage loaned the Chocobo to a Miqo'te named [[D'lyhhia Lhuil]] while she and her companion were extremely drunk when they chanced upon the famed Grindstone Champion, [[Sounsyy Mirke]]. Kage was not able to meet the champion and Shiron had been at Driftin Sol for quite a few moons before he left Ishgard for a bit and left a hefty bag of gil at the Sol for their help.

'''Zephyr:''' A smaller female Griffin that had initially attacked Kage in their first meet on [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=194060#pid194060 the way to Ishgard]. The Lalafell thinks that Zephyr adopted him after the two brought a dragon down together. The Griffin treated Kage in an extremely motherly way, and has recently made its nest out of the rest of Kage's clothes, leaving him with mostly battle-ready equipment. The nest is currently protecting precious eggs.

'''Baloo:''' - Smaller than usual, Baloo is the name of the Warbear that Kage [http://exkage.tumblr.com/post/135078706695/the-lalafell-leaped-forward-away-from-the-red fought and befriended.] The two traded blow after blow. The fight seemed to convince the warbear of something and when Kage was vulnerable to nature's elements, mostly the rain and water he had collapsed into, the warbear took Kage to warmth and safety. Baloo and Zephyr take turns keeping Kage in their view, never letting him go off far out of their sights when they are out in the wilderness and away from the city-states. Lately, Zephyr leaves this task mostly to Baloo as the griffin mother is nesting.

==Pets and Companions==
'''Monty:''' This baby Opo-opo can be quite mischievous! He takes Kage’s hats to play with, usually returning them to the top of the Lalafell's head. He’s taken to chirping with a feather in his mouth, much like how people will have something like a straw hanging out of the corner of their mouths. His white ribbon is tied around his tail, a small bow. His preference is Kage's head but has left it to Oak, the nutkin. He now perches atop one of Kage's shoulders, looping his tail about them. He spends more of his time by himself.

'''Oak:''' The Nutkin who hopes that it will find a honey roasted acorn mother lode with Kage. Another companion, the Nutkin is quite simple in his wants and desires. Kage tied the feather to his fluffy tail. The feather doesn’t hinder the tail’s movements even if it might seem to be as it lays around it with the white ribbon keeping it in place. Oak's perch is atop Kage's ahead on top of his white beret.

'''Arturius:''' The fat cat that seems to just keep getting fatter even with such a small head and fat cheeks. Arturius is surprisingly fast when chasing down foods. Kage adorns her head with the feather, with a white ribbon headband but it simply falls around Arturius’s neck constantly. Surprisingly. How did the headband get around her cheeks?! She is named Arturius, a name Kage briefly took as an amnesiac Miqo'te. There is no way that Arturius could climb on Kage so she is typically just purring around Kage's legs. It was only recently that Kage realized that he had misgendered the fat cat, having not able to inspect her. She gave birth and Kage had gifted close friends and acquaintances with kittens from the litter.

'''Owlet:''' - to be added and named

'''Lesser Panda:''' - to be added and named

'''Hawk:''' - to be added and named

=Rumors=
((OOC Note: Just as in real life, not all rumors are true.))
==Common Rumors==
::* "He's that sellsword Lalafell, sulkin' about at the Quicksand drinking shite ain't he?- Ul'dahn citizen
::* "I always see him sitting on the rail here." - Quicksand patron
::* "Heard he just packed up his old home and abandoned it when his friend died. Now he keeps wandering around. Weak."
::* "He used to always use a sword and shield like most of the Sultansworn right? Now he's usin' an axe?"

==Moderate Rumors==
::* "Didn't he always follow that reckless Sultansworn, Mcbeef?"
::* "He's a good man, Ser Kiryuu. No matter what the rest of the Blades or the newer 'Sworn think. He's always done good for me and mine." - Brass Blade Corporal Caleb Aggron

==Rare Rumors==
::* "Heard he made Lieutenant just before his Captain went missing. Coincidence? Hah!"
::* "He killed a couple of Brass Blades. He should be dead."

==Player Character Rumors==
((Feel free to add if your character has met Kage))
::* "Ten ponze of grudge squeezed into a five ponze bag. I can respect that. Can't say it ain't something I'm not guilty of either." - [[Flameson Hammersmith]]
::* "Lot o' history there. Can't rightfully say it was all bad. Here's hopin' for better." - [[Osric Melkire]]
::* "People do not care too much about me. 'Tis wise not to. But Kiryuu is... not especially wise, is he?" - [[Delial Grimsong]]
::* "He has been gone for nearly a cycle. Now he returns with gifts, an apology, and good will and expect to find the woman he knew then? He will be disappointed." - [[Roen Deneith]]
::* "It has been some time since I’ve last seen him. It is comforting to see that his spirit and goodwill have not dulled in the slightest." - [[Edda Eglantine]]
::* "The Little One is a Naive One with his attempt to deceive This One. More will be buried for the Naive One's deceit." - [[Nameless Warrior]]

=Art, Images, and Screenshots=
===Screenshots of IC Scenes===
<gallery>
File:Saving Salem.jpg|Saving Salem
File:Reunion with Salem.jpg|Salem indulging Kage in his obsession with sitting on friends' shoulders/arms.
File:NanawaRose.png|The undercover party meets with the "Rose" right before the Nanawa Mines incident.
File:KagefightsDenn.jpg|Kage prepares for a spar with [[Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn]], watched over by [[Natalie Mcbeef]], [[U'tano Kazhe]], [[Alexaria Whiteraven]], and [[Roen Deneith]].
File:An Oath.png|An oath sworn.
File:Bondsnearlybroken.png|Their bonds nearly broke that night, when push came to shove but they survived.
File:Kage and Jajara meet.png|Kage meets Jajara.
File:UnnamedMercKageQuicksand.png|The unnamed mercenary picks another fight with Kage, from within Quicksand to outside of the fine establishment.
File:KageTaeros.png|An extremely unpleasant meeting with Jameson Taeros.
File:MiqoKageandRoen.png|Kage meets Roen, after she was rescued from her kidnapping and while the case against her was building.
File:KageFranzComplicated.png|Kage meets with Franz after so long, realizing that his feelings for and about this man are very, very complicated.
File:KageandIlweMeeting.png|Kage speaking with Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa, getting to know each other...
File:KageRoenDel.png|After so long, Kage sees Roen once again with Delial. It was not a happy meeting.
File:KageFranzDel1stMeet.png|Kage and Delial first meet with Franz.
File:FirstNamelessAttack.png|The ambush as the group tried to gather intelligence on a certain silver haired female. The heavily armored man had slaughtered their only clues.

</gallery>

===In Character Images and Art===
<gallery>
File:Kage.jpg|Portrait commission of Kage when he was a Sultansworn by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:Kagenutkinsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his Nutkin by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:SultanswornSprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Sultansworn Kage by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:Kage Portrait by Xenedra.png|Quick bust by [[Xenedra Ambreaus]].
File:Kage natalie.jpg|The loving couple when Kage was once a Miqo'te by [[Tiergan Vashir]].
File:ANewKage.jpg|Kage leaves the sword he threw away, commission by [http://cantkillus.deviantart.com/ Jn3].
File:Kagefatcatsprite.gif|Pixel Sprite of Kage and his fat cat by [http://nightmazing.tumblr.com Ilwe'ran].
File:HatKageIcon.png|Icon made by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageObsy3.png|Commission of Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageHeadshotbyHut.png|Headshot by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].
File:KageTransition.png|Transition art of Kage, using his axe defensively to parry a blow. Commission by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3]. Art inspired by [http://dogbomber.tumblr.com dogbomber]'s Transition Piece.
File:KageGriffin.png|Kage and the griffin mum by [http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=6900 Hutarin].

</gallery>

===Close to IC but not IC===
<gallery>
File:KageandIlweCaenu.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord]
File:KageIlweNap.png|Commission of Kage and Ilwe'ran Hlaiwa napping and decorated by Carina by [http://zaheela.tumblr.com Zaheela]
File:BuddyCopsDelnKage.png|Commission of Delial Grimsong and Kage Kiryuu, Buddy Cops by [http://nim-kanim.tumblr.com Nim-kanim / Keali]

</gallery>

===Not-quite IC Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Kage Casual.jpg|Screenshot of Kage in his casual attire.
File:Kage frequent state of emotion.png|Kage's frequent state of emotions.

</gallery>

===Out of Character Images===
<gallery>
File:lalakageblm.jpg|Commission of Kage in THM attire by [[Surilian Blu]].
File:KageBLMdaikazoku63.jpg|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://Daikazoku63.deviantart.com Daikazoku63].
File:KageBLMObsy3.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://obsy3.tumblr.com Obsy3].
File:KageBLMCaenu.png|Commission of BLM Kage by [http://suuord.tumblr.com Suuord].
File:Kagepallyfinished(small).png|Commission of a Paladin Kage by [http://suri-chi.tumblr.com Surilian].

</gallery>

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==Annotations==
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