RPC Library - User contributions [en]

Odette Veaureaux

2020-03-24T13:52:12Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Gallery */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Odette Veaureaux
| image = odetteveaureauxprofile.png
| imagewidth = 340
| caption = "I had all the riches a person could desire...but freedom was not a luxury I could afford"
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ishgardian
| race = [[:Category:Elezen|Elezen]]
| clan = [[:Category:Duskwight Elezen|Duskwight]]
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 24
| stat_2 = Nicknames
| stat_2_value = Petal, Swan
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Noblewoman
| stat_4 = Guardian Deity
| stat_4_value = [[Halone, the Fury]]
| stat_5 = Marital Status
| stat_5_value = Betrothed to [[Ferroux Quilmont]]
| stat_6 =
| stat_6_value =
}}
<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''About The Player'''</div>
* '''Time Zone:''' CET - Poland
* '''Nationality:''' Canadian-Polish
* '''Server:''' Omega
* '''FC''': None
* '''Lodestone:''' [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/27316543/ Odette Veaureaux]
* '''Additional Characters:''' [[Meriell Bell]], [[Rinako Ura]], [[Shin Nelhah]], [[Black Forest]], [[Rorosa Rosa]], [[Zetoh'a Velshado]], [[Bernadette Bearclaw]], [[Berold Bearclaw]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''General'''</div>===
'''Odette Aveline Geneviève Celestria de Veaureaux''', commonly referred to simply as "'''Odette'''", is a highborn noblewoman hailing from The Hole See of Ishgard.

With family roots stemming back millennia to form a very devoted household to the Theocracy, as well as being very traditional in it's beliefs, she lead a very secluded and controlled lifestyle.
She followed her family in their wishes, having truly no choice in anything in her life. Years of being groomed to carry on the noble title with dignity while being the embodiment of a lady, she remained silent, unaware of the lands outside nor what freedom they offered. As her hand was given in marriage to a complete stranger from another noble house, she would slowly start to notice the cracks in her supposedly perfect lifestyle. As the doubts grew, so did her yearning to break away from her restrained lifestyle and family. It was then that a group of adventurers from Ul'dah assisted her in her escape.

In Ul'dah, with nowhere to go and confused by the completely new lands, she joined [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900646603/ Aurora Eorzea], where they took great care of her, as well as sheltering her from her family who, no doubt, was searching for her. Her cooperation did not last long as she met a fellow Ishgardian nobleman who immediately gave her a deeper purpose in his company, wanting her to assist in the infirmary as well as healing the wounded at [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900660662/ Raven's Heart]. It came with a sense of home to serve under another Highborn and she took his offer gladly but this was short-lived as a chance encounter with another Highborn named [[Ferroux Quilmont]] turned her entire world upside down, falling deeply in love with the man to the point of returning to Ishgard to move in with him while remaining still hidden from her family.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Personality'''</div>===
Genteel, calm and serene, Odette is the pillar of composure, grace and beauty.
She always has something nice to say to everyone and will do it with utmost class, style and dignity, displaying her strict noble upbringing at all times as it is not something she can hide. Highly educated and always polite, she always refers to others on a formal basis, unless said person requests otherwise.
Odette is extremely friendly to anyone and usually won't ever avoid people, unless given good reason to. She is unable to use slang words or curse words; a thing which simply doesn't click with her due to her childhood. She does not mind if others use slang or shorter versions of words, but heavy curse words will always ruffle up her feathers and she shuns such individuals. She is always very eloquent and elegant with her words as well as her mannerisms; an absolute lady in every aspect. She struggles to be more casual as well as to adapt to normal Eorzean life but she is willing to push herself to be able to mingle better with others.

She isn't one for violence and shall avoid it at all costs, always pushing for peace via diplomacy. Very articulate and soft-spoken, she is able to often calm down situations as long as they do not require brute force. If there is some uproar or ruckus in the vicinity, she is one to avoid it, preferring not to even be involved.

Despite all her advantages, she is very easy to be lied to, as she is very trusting of strangers due to a naive nature. She is not used to teasing, flirting or even jokes and they always send her for a spin, unknowing how to react to them. She often blushes in embarrassment and would try to diffuse the situation, but most often she would end up merely embarrassing herself even further. She has no experience at all with normal interactions with others and she struggles to understand at times the meanings behind peoples' actions. Fretted by the touch of a butterfly's wing, ready to faint at the sound of a beetle or the rattling of a window pane at night, she is a very skittish person, easily startled if approached out of nowhere.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Appearance'''</div>===
[[File:Odetteappearance.png|520px|left|]]
Odette is a woman of absolute beauty and exemplar refinement, which is impossible to go unnoticed.

She has gorgeous golden blond locks, semi-tied into a braid reaching to her mid-back; only at times pinned up into a tight bun. A pair of stunning and brilliant big icy-blue eyes. At simple glance anyone can say that she is a noblewoman, her fingers untouched by manual labour and her skin unexposed to the sun, white almost like porcelain or the freshest milk.. She takes great care of her looks, often spending hours by the mirror, making sure that she is presentable for the day. As most her kind, she is fairly tall, however among her own people she would not be considered the tallest, standing at a good average height among Elezen. A slender and delicate build, she is the embodiment of feminine charm and elegance.

Being a noblewoman, she tends to wear long garbs or gowns, often decorated intricately with embroidery or gemstones which came to the floor. While most nolewomen wore colourful fabrics, her favourite dress is a simply pale blue Ishgardian gown, void of any elaborateness but padded from the inside with fur to keep her warm. Not one for jewelry, she only wears simple crystal earrings, not wanting any bracelets or necklaces as she feels they get too much in the way. With some attire, she also wears a pair of sheer-white gloves, most commonly used when meeting people and not doing anything which would entail dirtying her hands. For footwear, she always wears her favourite pair of white, thigh-high Ishgardian boots. Odette was not one to wear headpieces but when cold, she would wear a pale blue cap with a small veil at the back which she would often keep at the front to shield her face.

She started to try and dress much more casual and common, pairing her own attire with some more everyday pieces of clothing. Trousers started to make way into her wardrobe as well as simpler blouses and shirts. But no matter what she wore, her noble upbringing was always evident at first glance, if not even just by how much care she took of herself.
With recent developments, she began to dress even more casual with darker colours making an appearance as well as a pair of glasses over her nose, the look more alike to a tutor or teacher more than a noblewoman. Her fabulous blonds tied up in a braid going around her head and often hidden under a cap. Despite the immense change in attire, when one would look closer, they would spot that she was a beauty under all the rags regardless.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Occupation'''</div>===
[[File:Astrologyodette.png|580px|right|]]
Being a noble and the youngest of the family, Odette had no job or occupation, other than studying.
She is very highly educated, especially in all sorts of literature and teachings. Manners and etiquette were of prime importance, including how to curtsy and how to mix with the greatest nobles in Ishgard. Time would be spent learning how to dance and ride. Some housewifely duties such as preserving fruits, sewing, embroidery and household management were also taught, to prepare her for her duties as a married woman. Expecting her to run the household in the possibility of the absence of her husband to be, it was imperative that she be literate and have reasonable mathematical skills so that she might run these with efficiency and be able to check whether her household costings seemed reasonable. She was taught to read, write, tell stories, read romances and judge the merits of poetry. Her favourite were leisure romances and poems as well as holy scriptures. She often undertook singing lessons and was instructed in multiple musical instruments.
Her spiritual education was critical being Ishgardian, and she would be extremely devout to Halone like most noble families.

Aside from her noble upbringing, she also learned the art of astromancy which came at a very early age, as her parents would send her daily to the Atheneum Arcaneum to study with the elders. They only saw fit that she learned to channel her Aether in a useful way, and being a trouble-maker as a child, it was a good activity to keep her mind busy from all her other studies which were dull to her. Odette enjoyed greatly reading the night sky and its constellations, and was an ace student. She mastered the skill of foresight and would learn to wield the magicks of the stars in her hands as she got to hold her very first star globe. She has never applied her skills in combat and has no experience outside of normal use as she specialized in healing magicks.
At the behest of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], she was put in charge of tending to the wounded during missions as well as afterwards in the infirmary. She made it her priority, making certain that they were stocked up on all medical supplies and she even took pride in her newly found job, wanting to assist people as best as she could.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Combat'''</div>===
Odette has absolutely no experience in battle, only having been exposed once to a mission and she did not enjoy it one bit.

Being a noblewoman, she has no endurance or stamina to show for, nor strength for that matter.
While not a fighter, she does offer a supportive role as a healer and helper to her companions, putting their safety and needs above her own at times. She utilizes her natural Duskwight assets of a very acute sense of hearing as well as her eyesight in the dark.

She was offered to be taught the ways of the dragoon by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but she rejected it, unable to bring herself to hurt another person no matter the circumstance. She prefers to offer succor to people, and not inflict pain. He respected her decision; however, she did turn towards firearms after buying one off [[Varriz Relanah]]. As a young lady back in Ishgard she was taught to use them, as the Skysteel Manufactory was renowned and the family deemed it a fitting weapon, elegant and not requiring physical confrontation.

However, when put under extreme pressure or when someone is in danger, she can surprise all those around her, even herself, by showing incredible bravery, most likely fueled through adrenaline. On one occasion needing to reach a device at the bottom of a crate filled with poison oozing-worms; she took off her shirt and wrapped her arm in it to reach inside and obtain the device to complete the mission. Her devotion is unquestionable and even if she does not enjoy being on the front-lines, she is definitely an asset to any team.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Tendencies'''</div>===
'''Likes'''
::* Afternoon tea time
::* Sugary confections
::* Kind and honest people
::* Warm weather with sunny skies
::* Beautiful and artsy objects/decor

'''Dislikes'''
::* Profanity and vulgarism
::* Being treated differently due to social standing
::* Stuck-up and arrogant people
::* Extremely direct and inappropriate conversations
::* Alcohol / Drunkenness
::* Swimming, since she cannot swim at all

'''Hobbies'''
::* Observing the night sky
::* Studying different cultures
::* Discovering the world
::* Stitching and embroidery
::* Playing music
::* Indulging in poetry and leisure romance novels

'''Skills'''
::* Very skilled piano and harp player
::* Fervent poetry writer

<div style="border:0px solid; padding:8px;"><b>
<div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #90AB76;">◢ Common Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is a beauty both inside and out. A lady through and through"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #F37E1D;">◢ Uncommon Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#F37E1D;" size="3">■</font> "Despite all her beauty, she looks to be an airhead and an idiot like all other nobles"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #D83018;">◢ Rare Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#D83018;" size="3">■</font> "Don't let her serenity fool you... She can be quite the rebel when needed"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #aac5b4;">◢ PC Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Relationships'''</div>===

<center><font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Family    <font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> Love    <font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> Platonic    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Failed     <font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> Good    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> Neutral    <font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> Poor    </center>

'''Family'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Asoix Veaureaux (57)
The head of the family and father of Odette and Clauvort. A powerful man of high standing, not taking 'no' for an answer under no circumstances. He was never close to anyone in his family as he was more of a leader than a father or husband; distant and unattainable to anyone. Odette never saw him as more than the leader of their family and never had any relationship with the man.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Jucette Veaureaux (53)
Jucette is Odette's mother; a kind and genteel woman, much like her. Everyone would say that Odette was the exact copy of her mother, only younger. Odette was always a mother's girl and she adored spending time with her, until slowly noble life would catch up and duties called as well as her studies and the two drifted apart fairly quickly. Her mother wanted to see nothing more but to have Odette grow into a beautiful and distinguished woman, at the same time, ignoring the girl's happiness.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Clauvort Veaureaux (29)
Odette's older brother and future head of the Veaureaux family. He is head-strong and has all the characteristics to be a marvelous leader, however, he lacks open-mindedness and treats things as they are seen, which she sees as a great fault. He is confident, at times even arrogant about his position, but he was always protective of his baby sister and the two grew up together to bond very closely despite their different ideals. After the disappearance of Odette, he was the most worried and would search for her frantically no matter what.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Zeauraut Traideux (29)
Her fiancee and betrothed whom she never had even met or seen. She had no desire to meet the man and instead she left Ishgard as their first meeting was to be at the altar during their marriage ceremony. Even if he might have been a good man, she did not want to take the risk. She did meet the man indirectly after she let Ishgard but getting to know his nature, she knew she made the right decision to leave. Prideful, arrogant and stuck-up, all qualities she despised.

'''Love Interests'''
:<font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> [[Ferroux Quilmont]] (26)
A chance meeting at the Quicksand and this young but endearing fellow Ishgardian made a lasting impression on her. Workaholic and neglectful of himself, she did try to somehow ease it up on him but he seemed to be overworking himself to cover up his loneliness. When she expressed the desire to help him, he said that all he wanted was friends. It made her quite happy and she immediately offered her friendship to the man. While the two would have many odd and awkward moments, it was clear they got along perfectly. Despite only ever meeting twice, on the second encounter, he asked her out. Ever since, the two became inseparable to the point of him asking for her to move in with him back in Ishgard, and shortly after for her hand in marriage, to which she agreed.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Valentin Vulaire]] (35)
Needing to return to Ishgard for private matters, she met the man at the Forgotten Knight together with some other familiar faces. The two separated from the group to talk in private and agreed to return to Thanalan the following day together. Odette quickly learned that she had to remain on her toes as the man was clearly trying to get on her nerves every chance he got. However when not being an arrogant pig, he was quite tender and kind to her, and this quality did warm her heart to him. While she may be feeling infatuation towards him, she is aware that he is not the right person for her. She tries to keep their interactions innocent, not wanting to convince herself that more can be of such a relation.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Varriz Relanah]] (??)
Visiting Ul'dah for some down-time, she ran into this Moonkeeper at the restaurant area at the airship landing. A chance meeting but the two seemed to get along quite well despite his teasing and constant compliments which would get her rather embarrassed. He expressed great interest in showing her around Thanalan once he learned that she was a foreigner and she gladly took him up on the offer. His silver tongue and outgoing personality definitely piqued her interest. He would often try to flirt his way into her heart and it would often leave her flustered although flattered, however, unable to respond and reciprocate despite liking the man.

'''Friends'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] (44)
Fellow Highborn Ishgardian she met while attending a meet-up at The Sharlayan Institutional Team of Gridania. After a most pleasant talk, she soon got to join his company as a nurse and healer to the wounded at his behest; unable to turn down a fellow Ishgardian. While finding the man absolutely dashing and the walking epitome of a Highborn gentleman, it also worked against her feelings for the man as she refused to get herself involved with another noble. She remained at his side through thick and thin, truly grateful for his help and seeing him almost as an older brother figure which she missed.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[K'alayah Xiaan]] (??)
The main leader of Aurora Eorzea. K'alayah was always very caring and giving towards the Elezen, including making sure she was safe from her past during her stay at the residence. Odette was always confused by the Sunkeeper woman, as this one always expressed great interest in her, which ventured beyond mere friendship. Perplexed with the natures of flirting and even intimacy, Odette always struggled to keep up with her pace. The two women bonded very closely regardless. Over time however, the advances started to sour the entire atmosphere and Odette left, although still treasuring her friendship with the woman.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Malrinn Nures]] (24)
Odette met this Au Ra at the Sharlayan Institute in the Lavender Beds and the two ladies did get along but it wasn't until two days later where they really got to bond at another outing. Despite their differences, they found lots of common ground and their friendship cemented even further as Malrinn discovered that Odette had never drank in her life and the night took a horrible turn, needing to escort the Elezen back home. While the night ended on a bad note, the chemistry was clear and Odette is very happy to call the woman her friend.

'''Acquaintances'''
:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] (??)
Friendly Moonkeeper fellow who works as a hunter and chef at the Aurora Eorzea. She met him upon her first visit to the establishment and while they haven't spoken much, he always seemed to be very polite and understanding. Eager to learn about all the different races, she would at times ask him about Miqo'te's and he was always glad to offer assistance and explanations. The two grew closer as he even told her of his past and she did appreciate it.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Reyza Blackwater]] (??)
Meeting her at a small outing to the Mists at a restaurant, Odette was truly impressed by this Miqo'te, especially her eloquent and beautiful speech pattern. It quickly became apparent that the feeling was mutual and the two women got to talk quite a lot that night, genuinely enjoying each other's company as they both clearly stuck out from the crowds.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Kaida Higashikaze]] (??)
Foreigner much like herself but from the East, most likely a samurai. While he was very distant and quiet at first, he quickly warmed up to her presence ant the two enjoyed a very lively talk which at some point became a bit too personal for Odette and the man quickly apologized to her. Despite this, she still enjoys his company and is looking forward to meeting more often.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Cesar Boulon]] (??)
A rude Ishgardian researcher and Aether professor whom she ran into at the Atheneum Arcaneum. Definitely not kind or even caring, his demeanor cold and calculating but he did assist her and her family by trying to find a cure for her sick father. Odette appreciated his help even if his methods were cold. Despite being polar opposites, she did find herself respecting the man and would even help him with his research when needed.

'''Enemies'''
:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> NONE

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''History'''</div>===

<center>'''Please note that all information below is common knowledge that Odette may share depending on her relationship with people; however there are still many secrets behind many decisions and those must be learned IC'''</center>

'''The Hole See of Ishgard''' (0-22)

<spoiler>
Odette was born to a Highborn family in Ishgard, the youngest child of two, the older being her brother Clauvort.
She was doted on generously by her parents and especially her brother as the siblings became inseparable. Her early childhood was a free spirited one as she was quite the tomboy, always getting into brawls with other children and wanting to be the focus of her parents, yearning for their affections despite their busy schedules with family matters.

As she grew, family affairs became more apparent as well as her heritage. She got home-schooled and would almost never leave the family residence, much too busy with her studies as well as prohibited. Her merry nature toned down over the years as she was groomed to be the perfect noblewoman. She blossomed into a beautiful woman, a feast for the eyes for any man and woman alike; at all parties all eyes being on her despite wanting to merely blend in. With her social status, her smarts and her looks, she remained modest and easily approachable.
Despite all the years of grooming, she still cherished the little adventuress in her heart, always yearning for more that her family could ever offer her. Clauvort was well aware of her hidden desires and at times he would even let her indulge as he would take her to the woods with him on his hunting trips with his friends.

Their parents didn't take too kindly to their escapades and paid a closer eye to Odette, and decided to put her Atheneum Arcaneum, wanting to offer her some way entertainment while making certain that she retained her dignity and image. It did work for a short while as she learned of Astronomy and she quickly excelled in the arts, able to read the constellations with ease as well as utilize their magicks. Apart from her usual social studies, languages, etiquette and diplomacy, she was also taught to play the piano, harpsichord and the harp; particularly excelling in the latter. Her schedule was kept busy and full, with the intention to not give her ideas nor reasons to rebel while at the same time shaping her into the perfect woman; one that would bring pride and honour to the family.
</spoiler>

'''Cost of Freedom''' (22-24)

<spoiler>
Reaching the age of twenty-two, and of the perfect age, Odette learned from her parents that they had given her hand in marriage to a fellow nobleman of the name Zeauraut Traideux. The news hit her hard and she never recovered from it, dreading the day where the union would take place to a total stranger. Clauvort told her that Zeauraut was a dear friend of his and even vouched for the man, but she would have none of it, crying and yearning for her freedom after so many years of being trapped in a silver cage.
[[File:odetteinishgard.png|500px|right|]]
Adding to her arranged marriage, many other things came to light which didn't sit well with her. The strictness of the nobility, the political games, the silly banquets and word plays at them, plotting, marrying only in between the higher-ups... She had enough of it all. Day in and day out she fell into a deeper depression, neglecting herself and Clauvort decided to act, unable to see his baby sister in such a state. He convinced their parents to let her venture freely around Ishgard as long as in his presence and they allowed it, thus, he would take her out almost on a daily basis. It did help as she got to indulge a bit in her brief freedom, as well as being away from the family residence. It was during their walks together that she was made aware visually of the poor state in which Ishgard was. The Brume in particular hurt her greatly. She was never aware that the social segregation was this evident and it made her feel guilty, as she had no right to complain about her life as she had anything she ever wanted, apart from freedom. She would try to convince herself that it was all in her head, she had no reason to complain, and yet she couldn't help herself. As the day of the planned union loomed closer, her mood swings became worse and worse and she would start considering ways to break it off and stop it. All ideas were absurd if not even dangerous both to herself and her family and she would spend all her free time plotting some way to free herself.

During one of her walks with Clauvort, they ran into a rarely seen group of adventurers from Ul'dah. Slightly shorter statures, darker skin as well as a different language, they instantaneously intrigued Odette and she immediately approached them with Clauvort following suite. The entire group engaged in conversation and they even went to The Forgotten Knight to talk about Eorzea and all the details of the realm which were alien to her. Even her brother enjoyed the talks and as he was distracted by a server woman at the inn, Odette then spoke to the adventurer's in a different tone, begging them to help her. It shocked them at first for her to be so desperate as to trust complete strangers but they understood that she was desperate and they all agreed to assist her. When Clauvort returned to them, the simple talk resumed.

The same night, Odette prepared herself for her escape as she had agreed with the men from Ul'dah. As agreed, one of them came to see her under her window and she threw herself out of it to be caught by him. They then made a run for it and rejoined the rest of the party. She had left no note or indication at all of her whereabouts to her family, leaving them to believe what they willed. The men quickly dressed her like an Ul'dahn to conceal her real identity and they bound her ears back with a sash to make her look like a Hyur. They fetched their chocobos and Odette sat behind one of the men on his as they approached the gates of the Steps of Faith, and the guards let them leave without without questions asked. She was relieved more and more as slowly Ishgard became but a dot in the distance. She was saddened by her immediate departure, particularly feeling it for her brother but she wouldn't risk telling him of her plans as she knew he would've tried to stop her.

Her saviours took her with them to Ul'dah where they assisted her briefly before leaving to continue their journey.
For the first time, she was left alone to deal with things herself, without anyone's help. While it was liberating, fear set in as she was made aware of just how little she knew of the world and how it worked. She stood out immensely in Ul'dah and it was not attention she wanted, terrified that sooner or later she would be found out and her family would come seeking her out. With money to spare, she checked herself in at the local inn where she remained for a few days before venturing out anew.
</spoiler>

'''A Place to Call Home''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:Auroraeorzea.png|500px|left|]]
On one of her walks, she ventured into the Goblet and came across an establishment named Aurora Eorzea, intrigued, she went inside.
There she met [[K'alayah Xiaan]], a Sunkeeper Miqo'te as well as [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]], a Moonkeeper. She had never seen Miqo'tes' from up close and it caught her attention as she would study them from a distance. The two approached her and exchange a few words, explaining that the house belonged to the Sunkeeper as she ran a mercenary service there as well as a restaurant in the lower levels. Odette had never met mercenaries in her life and it was a completely new experience to her. The Miqo'tes' were curious of her whereabouts but she didn't want to say too much and she simply explained that she had left Ishgard. Once the Moonkeeper left, [[K'alayah Xiaan]] was quick to expose the woman, taking notice of her mannerism as well as her manner of speech and her attire. With no reason to hide, Odette confessed to the woman that she had abandoned her past in search of freedom but that she was terrified that her family was searching for her. While her family did not know she had ran away, the possibility of being kidnapped was highly probable.
The Sunkeeper reassured her stating that she was safe within Aurora Eorzea and she allowed her to stay as long as she needed. Odette was truly grateful and she would exchange a few more words with the woman, although clearly sensing that there was more that met the eye. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] appeared particularly interested in the Elezen, often making hints at her beauty as well as engaging in small flirts, which always had Odette blushing and becoming flustered, completely not used to such attention while the Miqo'te found it endearing.

Staying at the establishment, Odette felt much more at ease, especially as she made friends with many of its members which substituted her family for her in a certain way. During one of her rests, she met a new member of the place named [[Nene Kotake]] who was an Au Ra. Odette had never met Au Ra and she would also study the woman closely with genuine interest. She was soft-spoken and said very little, speaking in a third-person view, but she didn't seem to mind. While talking, [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] made and appearance together with [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. Odette admitted to them that she had been doing her utmost to educate herself on Eorzea, including the cultures, races, history and even foods. She then noted that the Moonkeeper's name meant that he was a second born. It surprised him to see someone even make that remark and he opened up a bit about his past, admitting that he had lost his older brother very early on. Odette immediately apologized, not wanting to bring back painful memories at the time but he luckily did not seem to mind.
[[File:Tiamosandodetteexploring.png|500px|right|]]
Next morning, she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and the two talked more about romance and their ideas of partnerships, much to Odette's embarrassment. It was then that Odette learned that the Sunkeeper was a poly-amorous person, a thing which she had never even heard of back in Ishgard. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] expressed explicit interest in the Elezen but Odette definitely was not interested in romance at the time, especially with another woman who was so open about sexual relations. It was much too knew and the memories of having escaped an arranged marriage were too fresh. It was then that some adventurer walked in and Odette, wanting to be a good host, followed the man to greet him downstairs at the restaurant area. His name was [[Tiamos Loren]] and he shocked her great as he spoke Old Elezen to her. It made her very happy but at the same time suspicious. The two engaged in casual conversation but he remained secretive of his own whereabouts, and as did she about her past. However, they did enjoy each others' company and he offered to show her a bit of Thanalan. They walked all the way to the Silver Bazaar where Odette confronted him, demanding to know why he spoke Old Elezen and why he seemed to know so much about Ishgard, suspicious and believing him to be some spy sent to find her by her family. He easily diffused the tensions, reassuring her that he had no knowledge of her or her family, stating that he had no interest in oppressing anyone's will. She was quick to apologize, ashamed of her quick assumptions but he cheered her up, not wanting her to feel bad about it. The two of them talked some more as they observed the sea, something she had never seen in her life back in Ishgard, making her more and more aware of how little she actually knew.

Dawn came anew and Odette ran into [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and he offered to tell her some more about Moonkeepers to help her with her desire to learn more of all the details required to live in Eorzea. The talk quickly shifted into more sensitive waters as talks of his brother reemerged. She was quick to comfort the man, not wanting him to force himself but he did not mind, appreciating her tender words. It was then that another person joined in, that being a Viera named [[Vildola Fyth]]. She had never met or even seen a Viera, but had read a bit about them. The two quickly established lots of common ground, both being foreigners in a new land and needed to adjust. It made Odette very happy to have a friend, one whom understood her perfectly. The Viera also appeared quite content as the two women bonded closely. Odette showed her the library, and there [[Vildola Fyth]] spotted the piano and sat at it, intrigued by the musical instrument as she confessed to always having wanted to learn how to play. Odette was happy to hear that as it was the perfect exchange, she told her that she'd teach her to play the piano in exchange for some basic botany skills. The Viera agreed. Coming back from a walk in the Goblet, she ran into an unknown man back at the establishment, but she remained cordial and soon learned he was [[Taahir Al-Nazar]]. He told her that he was in charge of the navy force belonging to the guild which really impressed her, while at the same time being a merchant from the Thanalan desert. She however refused to open up about her detailed reasons for being part of the guild herself but she did enjoy the casual conversation. He then mentioned of some hot-baths right next door and proposed that they go there to relax and she agreed, quite curious to see them as she had never been to such a place. The hot waters were truly warming and soothing and she enjoyed them greatly, especially with such marvelous company. The two continued talking and it was quickly made apparent that he seemed to like her and he asked her out to dinner. As they finished to bathe, they headed back to Aurora Eorzea for their dinner date, heading downstairs to the restaurant area. While eating and bonding some more, he suggested that she could assist the guild with her healing, assisting perhaps with the sick or injured. It immediately caught her interest and she agreed, only after consulting it with [[K'alayah Xiaan]] beforehand.

Word came from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] that the company was required to assist her in retrieving some artifact. While odd, Odette did join, together with [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and [[Amberlenne Furieaux]]. From outside of the company, [[Tiamos Loren]] and [[Sini'to Shadar]] joined in to assist on the quest. They ventured out into the Thanalan desert and were quickly transported to some sort of castle gates while getting split from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] as she got sucked into some hole and then [[Tiamos Loren]] who was trying to save her. Four of them left, they ventured into the residence and were quickly exposed to some odd childish voice who appeared to be testing them as they were put through a huge ordeal. They found rooms iterated with worms, which disgusted Odette greatly and had her sick to her stomach for the entire time. Some spirits in the courtyard were trying to sell their wares, which consisted of worms, and she avoided them at all cost. There were five immense towers visible from the courtyard and they went into each one, discovering many secrets of the place, among them weird weapons which seemed to suck out the aether out of anyone who held them and more worms. In four towers they found magical objects which disappeared upon touching and then the gates to the fifth tower opened. At some point they found the missing due and they all ventured into the fifth tower where they found some book which [[K'alayah Xiaan]] has been hunting for as well as the origin of the childish voice, a young Miqo'te boy. He seemed amused and wanted to play more with them but the party took the book and departed, noticing that they couldn't even land one hit on the lad. Immediately after the entire ordeal, [[Tiamos Loren]] and Odette got talking by the waters of Forgotten Springs. The conversation at first was about the event and what they went through but during the talk, Odette picked up on a few lines and hints from him, gently suggesting that he wasn't from Eorzea, if even the realm. She quickly blew his cover and seeing no other way, and at the same time not deeming has as a threat or having malicious intent, he confessed to her his origins. He was from a completely different world, one where wyrms were even looked up to and treated as wise creatures, and people followed their words. This surprised Odette and she then explained to him the views on dragons on Eorzea and they were the completely opposite. Hearing the story of this world, he decided to take it upon himself to form a company named The Azure Blades to assist those in need. it surprised her and she questioned him for the reason, as it made no sense for a foreigner to assist them; but he remained adamant. It was quite nice to hear and she gladly offered her help in the matter.

The next day she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and she asked her permission about establishing and infirmary in the guild, to which the Miqo'te agreed gladly. The talk turned a bit darker as they consulted on matters from days prior in the desert, Odette still shaking off the unpleasant feeling. During this talk, the woman confessed about her own corruption within as she revealed her eye being the source; explaining that she was seeking a cure and that the book they had recovered had high chances to help her.
[[File:Sharlayanlibrary.png|500px|left|]]
Days went by and Odette had inspected all the books in the Aurora Eorzea regarding the realm. Boredom set in as well as the nervousness as she did not feel yet very confident in her new home and that was when she heard of a meet-up at the Sharlayan Institute in Gridania. Curious, she decided to pay it a visit, hoping that she might find more resources to educate herself on Eorzea and it's culture. Her friends helped her in teleporting there, leaving her to enjoy the evening on her own as she found the place in the Lavender Beds. She immediately got greeted by a rather obnoxious setting as some mad chocobo was set loose downstairs and was causing havoc. Doing her best to just avoid the ruckus, she settled herself by the bar where she engaged in conversation with an Au Ra and a fellow Ishgardian man. She was truly happy to meet one of her own, although his sharp tongue and witty replies left her rather astounded and speechless most of the time. It was intimidating on many levels and a bit unpleasant to her ears so she shifted away. [[Tiamos Loren]] then appeared and she greeted him warmly. He expressed interest in books regarding Aether manifestation and they both went downstairs to the library to begin their search but were cut off by [[Tiny Blue]]. While odd, the Lalafell was truly endearing and the three of them engaged in conversation, only interrupted as another Elezen made his appearance, apologizing for his intrusion. The group immediately dispersed a bit around the library to not block the way to the man, Odette meanwhile analyzing his appearance as it was rather clear to see that he appeared to be Ishgardian. She greeten him in Old Elezen and it immediately got his interest, also identifying her as kin and the two engaged in talk. He introduced himself as [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], called Corvo by friends. She at first struggle to even use his nickname, but she did her utmost to correct herself despite her slip ups. [[Tiamos Loren]] was quick to assist the man in finding a book regarding astral plains and also regarding the beast tribes located in the Shroud, while Odette kept herself buy by researching books about Eorzea overall. She located one on Eorzean holidays and she went away a bit to have a peaceful read which got interrupted by [[Tiny Blue]] as he jumped onto her desk. A tad annoyed and sated with the book, she returned the book to it's original place when the Elezen man came back downstairs and offered his assistance to her, stating that he had been in Eorzea for over two years. She was elated and truly grateful and he did assist her with all her questions. He then posed her a question, asking if she fancied a walk outside under the stars and she gladly took the man's offer, the two leaving the library to talk more peacefully outside.

As they walked, she felt someone staring at the back of her head and then spotted [[Tiamos Loren]] who appeared to be following them. The Elezen confronted him, inquiring as to the reason for following or if he misunderstood his relationship with Odette, to which she blushed, immediately stating that they weren't a couple. She reassured the Huyr that they were only going for a walk and after much debate he conceded and left them and [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] then invited him together with Odette to some time come by his company for a drink. As the Hyur left them, the two Elezen continued their walk in the Lavender Beds, enjoying the night breeze and sky as the stars shone upon them. They reach an lavender field near the waters and the man then turned to her, offering his hand, asking if she perhaps wished to retreat somewhere more private. She did not mind either way, enjoying the company quite a lot, especially as he was very helpful and truly a gentleman which was a nice change from what she saw lately from the opposite gender. For a moment she felt herself loosing grip on reality as he talked but she snapped back as he called her and they continued their walk; genuinely enjoying her time spent with the man as they talked through the night.
[[File:mistouting.png|500px|right|]]
Enjoying her last outing to the library, Odette wanted to mingle some more, seeing it also as a good way to learn the customs and cultures on Eorzea. And so, she ventured to the Mists where there was a dinning event at a restaurant there, including some side entertainment. She found the place without any complications and once inside, she ran into an old face, [[Malrinn Nures]], a lady she had met two days prior at the Sharlayan Institute. The woman appeared quite happy to see her and she sat opposite her. Odette met her talking companion, a Miqo'te lady named [[Reyza Blackwater]] who had one of the most eloquent and beautiful voices and phrasing she had ever heard. The feeling seemed to be mutual as the Miqo'te also expressed curiosity about Odette's whereabouts as it was clear from a glance that she stood out from the crowd in both looks and mannerisms and Odette explained that she hailed from the Holy See of Ishgard, which definitely got the Miqo'te's interest. They talked a little bit about Ishgard and then the talk shifted to more casual matters. On stage, suddenly, a marriage was announced and everyone applauded and congratulated the couple which was to be wed; Odette day dreaming a bit, voicing that she found it romantic to be married. [[Malrinn Nures]] was quick to counter that, clearly being rather negative and she explained that she had broken off with her partner the same day. Odette immediately felt guilty and sat beside her, giving her a side hug, wanting to cheer her up at least a bit. The evening went by casually, and Odette met another Miqo'te by the name of [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. While they did not talk much at all, the moment he mentioned [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] he got her attention and he asked her if she knew him, to which she nodded. He expressed immediate concern over this acquaintance, but she appeared adamant about her trust in the fellow Ishgardian, going as far as stating that she found him dashing and a true gentleman. It relieved the man luckily and the topic was dropped. One of the entertainer's at the establishment started seeking volunteers to go on stage but everyone rejected. [[Malrinn Nures]] joked that she could make a drinking competition, to which Odette commented that she had never drunk in her life. The Au Ra immediately ordered a bottle of red. A prayer was offered to Halone in preparation as the bottle was uncorked. The first few sips were agonizing, finding the flavour rather revolting and much too overpowering but as she kept going, it dulled her senses, taste buds included and she started to drink which amazing speed. The Au Ra had a most jolly time watching the Elezen down almost an entire bottle on her own in one go. Odette, unused to the effects, struggled to discern her surroundings but still did her best to remain a lady, deeming it best to return home. Getting up, the room started to spin and she struggled to make her way upstairs. [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] both assisted her, asking where she leaved. The Goblet was quite far and they did not want to risk teleportation with someone in her state, and so they decided to leave her in Lominsa at the Drowning Wench.
Odette woke up the next day, sick to the stomach and with no will to live, her very first hang over took over her body. She had no idea where she was or what had even happened, her last memory being talking with the girls back at the table in the Mist. After emptying the contents of her stomach multiple times, she did come across a note left by her friend, where she explained what had happened as well as where she was. She was most relieved to find that piece of information although the guilt was immense. She had no desire to drink to a stupor and it did taint her image. She vowed to never drink again.

Still dazed but intent on returning home, Odette teleported back to the Goblet however she mistook wards and ended up in the wrong one. Wandering lost, she came across a house with a familiar name 'Raven's Heart'. It immediately reminded her of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] and as she inspected the property, she found him in the front yard. He seemed shocked to see her there but pleased and the two exchanged a few pleasantries before heading inside. He asked her how come she found the place and she admitted it was pure coincidence. The man proceeded to explain the entire point of the Raven's Heart, what they did and what were their goals, including mentioning that they had ties to Ishgard which did rub her the wrong way a bit, concerned for her safety but she did not voice it. He then gave her some recruitment papers which shocked her but he kindly coerced her into it, requesting her assistance as a fellow Ishgardian and friend. Odette put some thought into the matter and she was definitely happy to find a purpose as it would help her in integrating with people in Eorzea as well as perhaps make a difference. She signed the papers but under the condition that her family name be left out if she were ever to be mentioned to any Ishgardians. He did not seem to mind and the deal was sealed. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] gave her a tour of the place and she then ran into [[Vildola Fyth]] who was looking for her. The man learned that the Viera was also an outsider and a fellow healer and so he also accepted her as Odette's help as they quickly decided that Odette would assist in the infirmary. Once he left, the two ladies got talking, expressing their shared concerned over Aurora Eorzea and the two agreed that it was not the place for them.

Odette returned to Aurora Eorzea and wrote them a letter, mostly addressed to [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. She thanked her and everyone else at the house for their kindness, but also expressing that she felt the need to move elsewhere, finding herself an ill fit in their current company. While in reality it was true, most of all she simply wanted to draw a clear line and stop the sexual advancements. She left them a box of Ishgardian bonbons and left, explaining that she was to leave together with [[Vildola Fyth]] but that they would remain in touch.
[[File:ravensheartoutside.png|500px|left|]]
She returned to Raven's Heart with the Viera, looking forward to making herself useful so she went to the infirmary to inspect their stock and possibly add more to it. As her friend left, Odette also went out to stock up on a few medical supplies. Upon her return, she met many new faces, among them [[Arthain Garon]]. He convinced her to go introduce herself to the others and so she did, meeting a few other members of the place, among them she met [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. He did mention her drunkenness from the other day and she glared for once, quickly retreating back outside; far too ashamed of the event to want it mentioned. Outside she ran into [[Arthain Garon]] and the two got to know each other very well, finding they had a long in common. He seemed quite happy to see her not being scared of him, although the reason was unknown to her for such an assumption. She gladly observed him practicing his magicks when they got interrupted by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. The Elezen greeted them and while talking mentioned the Au Ra's brother, which made the man storm off back inside. Odette was absolutely confused but the Elezen reassured her it was nothing she said. The two exchanged a few warm words before he took his leave and she rejoined the others inside. There, she ran again into the Au Ra man who apparently had broken his finger. Together with [[Edgar Wyndham]], a man she had also met back at the Sharlayan Library, they made their way with him to the infirmary to assist him. They all then proceeded to explore the house as it appeared some rooms were brand new. It was then that [[Edgar Wyndham]] suddenly proposed a history lesson to them out of nowhere but the Au Ra declined, retreating for the night, thus Odette gladly took it upon herself to listen. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] joined on the lesson about Thanalan history but Odette did not last long, feeling much too exhausted and so she retreated for the night.

The next morning, while browsing the library for books on Thanalan history, wanting to better herself especially after the lesson from the day before. As she found a book, two people also were residing in the library at the time; a man named [[Kaida Higashikaze]] and a petite Au Ra lady named [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. The woman seemed to walk on pins and needles, seeming nervous all the time. Odette exchanged a few kind words with her although the man remained relatively silent until the Au Ra left them and Odette tried her best to engage in conversation with him. It took some time and patience to get the man talking but once he did, the conversation was one of the best she had ever had. He expressed interest in her wanting to learn more as well as her culture, them comparing each others' heights among other things and engaging in friendly banter. The talk took a turn as he asked her of her opinion of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. She explained that she found him to be a good man, the true ideal of an Ishgardian nobleman. [[Kaida Higashikaze]] then asked if he had tried to bed her. Odette's mind exploded at the insinuation, immediately countering that and explaining her reasons for being in Eorzea, which defended the Highborn man. He appeared understanding, but he did tease her a bit more, amused by her blush and flustered nature. It took her some time to settle down but he was definitely respectful, but at the same time he remained playful and flirtatious even. He would ask her of what she wanted in life as she seemed to be a pure bookworm, asking her even of romance as she admitted to reading leisure romances. She admitted to having a great interest in such books but that in real life she had not the chance. In revenge, she asked him the same. He did not mind her question nor her curiosity and he explained that he was not taught in romance nor courtship and that it all seemed daunting to him. Odette comforted him and they would even start to joke around, wondering who would be first to find the right person for them.
[[File:VarrizandOdette.png|500px|right|]]
Wanting some time for herself and away from books for once, Odette ventured to Ul'dah where she decided to go to the airship landing as it was a peaceful area when compared to the bustling streets of the city. There, she met a certain Moonkeeper named [[Varriz Relanah]] who was the first to engaged in conversation with her. It took her by surprise but she wasn't one to turn down a nice talk, especially if it worked in her favour to adapt and mingle with people. The two sat down at a table and continued to talk into late hours of the night, not even noticing the time pass. He quickly figured out her origins, if not even only due to her looks but so did her accent and her tales give her away. She quite enjoyed the talk, learning that he was a travelling merchant and he was there to greet freshly arrived people in Ul'dah, while at the same time trying to sell them his wares. While shrewd, she did not see it as a fault but more a smart way to benefit. It relieved him to know that she did not think any lesser of him. Despite the pleasant exchange, she did not fully open up about her past as he was still a stranger and she could not trust anyone, and so she did not reveal her family name. In between the discussions, he would throw in compliments as well as more spicy topics which each time sent her head for a spin, going silent and unable to respond until she calmed down. No matter how often it happened with him or in the past, it was something she would still struggle with as it always got her embarrassed. She told him of her issues on the more intimate topics, explaining her past occurrences with [[K'alayah Xiann]] and it left him rather shocked, perhaps then understanding why she seemed to have her guard up at times. They talked of what her desires might have been and she openly stated that she had none, apart from her freedom which she had already attained but now that she had it, she had no idea what to do with it. It was then that he offered to help her use that newly found freedom, suggesting to show her around Ul'dah as well as Thanalan. She was truly content to receive such an offer and she immediately agreed and the two exchanged linkshell frequencies to remain in touch. As the hour got late, Odette decided it was best to return home to the Goblet, fearing that [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] might get worried as she wasn't one to remain away for long. She excused herself and bid the man farewell and the two parted ways.
</spoiler>

'''Facing the Past''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:tiamosandodetterh.png|500px|right|]]
Days went by and Odette ever so slowly would adapt to her new life in Thanalan, still struggling but otherwise making progress. With the gil she brought with herself from Ishgard, she put it forth to purchase an apartment in the Goblet, mind set to make her home in Eorzea. She would move between her new home and the new company, finding a comfortable routine in the coming days and it did bring a sense of much needed relief to find stability. On one of her ventures to Ul'dah, she ran into [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Quicksand and they quickly caught up with one another. He appeared to be busy as ever, and it was somehow nice to hear that he was never changing. He then asked her in turn, and her face said it all. While content, she admitted that she had word that her father was ill and that it did not seem to be some mere cold. She explained that she was planning to head to Ishgard to see what she could learn of his state while still keeping her cover. He offered lots of advice and she truly appreciated it, even wanting to go there to research her acquired information but that she declined, stating that she wanted to go herself and see it with her own eyes. He did not pressurize, but remained concerned for her safety. Changing topic, she told him that she joined Sir [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] company which surprised him although hearing her opinion of the man, he felt a bit guilty for judging him as quickly as he had. He expressed on seeing this place as he did get an open invitation from the man and Odette immediately offered to take him there, adding that she also had recently purchased an apartment in the area if he also wanted to see it. The two of them made their way to the Goblet, Odette proud to actually have memorized the way despite being an outsider. She showed him the company house from the inside and he expressed concerned over the relics which lay around, completely unguarded. She agreed and was fine with delivering the concern to [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but [[Tiamos Loren]] said he would do it, as the concern was his to begin with. She showed him the downstairs area, explaining the origin of the books and he found the collection quite impressive. Odette then proposed to him that they move to her apartment as it was also in the area, and so they did, reaching the apartment building within a few moments. The building seemed almost abandoned as very few tenants lived in it, but it did not bother her one bit, quite enjoying the quiet. It also was a good point as it meant she could play her piano without annoying her neighbors. Once inside, they engaged in more friendly talks, finding more and more in common even among the little things. [[Tiamos Loren]] would at times try to pat her back but each time she stiffened up and he immediately apologized for the lack of personal space but she quickly explained herself, simply saying that she wasn't used to any intimate touches other than from family members. It did calm him down. She then mentioned his offered help regarding Ishgard, asking him if he would mind to assist her and he gladly took up the request. After a few more hours of casual talks, the two split ways as he decided to venture to Ishgard as soon as possible while she would join him up a day later on.

The coming day, Odette made her way towards Ishgard via chocobo. She was in no hurry and she did enjoy the trip itself to get there. Once before the Steps of Faith, she had to think up a way to enter the city, aware that she hadn’t really put much thought into it. She could see the guards stopping and questioning visitors, regardless of rank or race and it got her worried. Getting off her chocobo and with reigns in her hand, she made her way towards the guards calmly and once right in front of them, she gave the chocobo a hard smack to its rear, causing it to go into a frenzy as it rushed into the guards, distracting them instantly. Among the ruckus, she ran inside the city, slipping past the guards and any other suspicious eyes.
Once inside the city, she spent a good few hours walking the streets, indulging in the nostalgia and the memories of her old home. While she did not support her family, she did love Ishgard and if it were not for her family, she would have stayed. Not wanting to arouse suspicions, she avoid interacting with people, wanting to hear any news about her family anonymously, ideally as a passerby. Unfortunately, it did not help at all. The only news she heard was that her father was stepping down as head of the household, giving the leadership to her brother Clauvort. Disheartened, she continued walking the streets in hopes of getting a better lead and that was when she found [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Jewelled Crozier. He was shocked to see her there and clearly he was not approving of her presence but she stood her ground and the two moved to a more secluded place to speak at ease without prying eyes. He asked her if she found out anything and she did share the little bit she learned. It confirmed what he also managed to find out but it got them nowhere. The brainstorming started as the man wanted to somehow meet her brother to ask him about the state of the family, ideally by luring him out. Odette had no idea how to achieve this as his hunting trips were common but irregular and they were back to square one. She even started to debate showing herself to her family but [[Tiamos Loren]] adamantly prohibited her. While ashamed of her idea, she did come up with a better one, informing him that her brother’s best friend went every day to Saint Reymanaud's Cathedral and that for certain he would know everything. He agreed and the two of them made their way to the Cathedral. Once inside, Odette described the man to her friend as best as she could, stating that she had no idea of his looks but she knew his family’s emblem as well as his name. Luck on their side, at one of the benches, there was a man seated with said emblem on his cape. [[Tiamos Loren]] told Odette to stay out of sight while he did the talking although she seemed willing to immediately back out of the plan. He snapped at her, criticizing her for having no back bone, telling her to stand her ground and to go through with it. While harsh, it worked and she hid behind the pillars of the cathedral, eavesdropping from a safe distance even if the man had no idea how she looked like. Once the sermon ended, [[Tiamos Loren]] approached the man, requesting to speak to Zeauraut Traideux. The man clearly had no love for outsiders but he granted him the audience once they stepped outside the cathedral. The Highborn immediately introduced himself as Zeauraut Traideux, heir to the Traideux House. The Midlander introduced himself as well and the two engaged in conversation. Zeauraut was a sharp man and he did not buy anything the man was telling him until he spoke of the Dragonsong War. He lied saying that he was a good friend of House Veaureaux but that ever since the war, the house cut all ties with him and he desires to know what is happening with it. Zeauraut, while not fully convinced, he did tell him that the entire house has been in chaos after the disappearance of Mademoiselle Odette. [[Tiamos Loren]] knew the overall picture of her departure but he never knew the details and it caught him off guard. The Highborn explained to him that simply one night she woman disappeared into thin air, the family suspecting that she was kidnapped for some ransom but no one ever came forth demanding money. They did send scouts to try and locate her but they found nothing, slowly beginning to suspect that she had been killed. The Midlander was not aware of the details and it got him asking for the reason for this disappearance, aware that she was to wed a man before she was gone. Zeauraut’s eyes grew severe at those words as he stated that he was the man she was to marry. [[Tiamos Loren]] had no idea that the man he was speaking to was Odette’s fiancée, however, speaking to him and learning how he was, he could not fault her for leaving. Zeauraut added that now the Lord of the house, Asoix, is passing the leadership to his son, Clauvort due to health issues and the Midlander immediately offered his help in healing the man but the Elezen refused, voicing that the family did not wish to be involved with any outsiders and that most likely it was why he was cast away to begin with. [[Tiamos Loren]] agreed, backing down and the two man parted ways after a few more words, among them the Highborn telling him that his reputation in the family’s eyes could be restored if he were to know anything about Odette. Once the Highborn was away from earshot, Odette came out of hiding, moving towards her friend telling him that most likely this explained to him why she no longer resided in Ishgard.
[[File:Fireplacetogether.png|500px|left|]]
He definitely understood her perfectly, drained by that conversation with the arrogant noble. Odette, finally after months, she felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders as her eyes became glossy from joy, needing a moment to calm herself as she closed her eyes. He took her hand into his, content to see her relieved and for once she did not flinch at the touch. Quite on the contrary, she returned it by giving his hand a squeeze. Happy to see her in such state, he said they should return home but she stopped him, asking for just one more day in Ishgard as she was still homesick and she wanted to enjoy it some more, adding that she had a craving for Ishgardian tea. He laughed but agreed and the two of them went to the Forgotten Knight. As they awaited their tea, Odette would warm up her frozen hands by the fireplace, joking that she had gotten spoiled by Thanalan weather. [[Tiamos Loren]] joined her by the fire and they got talking on a deeper level. She expressed her undying gratitude to him, calling him her guardian angel as he was always there for her no matter what and he never wanted anything in exchange. He explained that he always sought to do good no matter what, which is what he did all the time until he changed places, clearly suggesting that he wasn’t going to stay in Eorzea. It saddened her and she admitted that she did not wish to see him gone to which he replied that she would be long gone by the time he would leave. It shocked her to hear that as Elezen were one of the longest living races and it made no sense to her but she decided not to ask further. Instead, she pitied him, saying that it had to be hard to live on while loved ones grew old and withered away. He agreed and it was evident it hurt him as the man would begin to shed tears. She was quick to comfort him, hands moving to his shoulders, saying that she did treasure their friendship to matter if it was only a blink for him. He reassured her that she was not a blink to him, saying that she shone just as brightly as the other stars in his sky. It took her aback but she appreciated his words greatly. During this heartfelt conversation, he did say that he would not mind if she wanted to offer him more than just mere friendship. This statement hit her hard as she had never looked at him, or anyone for that matter, in a romantic way and it was a novelty to her. He did not pressure her, saying it was her decision but he was patient and willing to wait. He had always been anything but kind and supportive of her and she truly valued their friendship, but actually perceiving the man as a romantic interest was not easy but she wasn’t opposed to the idea, willing to open her mind and perhaps try a different approach. The two spent the rest of the evening sat by the fire, sat closely together as they both relaxed after the long and eventful day.

The next day, Odette did ask him to return home first as she did not want to arouse suspicions at the gates when leaving the city. She arrived alone and so did he; seeing them together could arouse suspicions. Especially if Zeauraut could be observing him without their knowledge. Although not content with the idea, he agreed and departed the city, leaving Odette alone to enjoy her one day at home. As Odette strolled down the streets of Ishgard alone, she felt nostalgic and perhaps a bit home sick, but she did enjoy the walk, taking in the sights and feeling like a child anew. Wanting to somehow assist her family, she decided to have a look at the Atheneum Arcaneum and check if anyone knew anything more there. Luckily, no one recognized her but many faces were familiar to her, all apart from one. A lone man sat by the table, seemingly sucked in completely by a book he had laying before him. She took advantage of the fact that he was a stranger, aware that he would not recognize her identity. He ignored her completely but it was evident he knew something of the state of her father and she demanded to know. As he kept his answers brief and cold, she lost her nerves and gave away her name to the man, wanting to justify the reason why she wanted and needed to know the current state of her father. The man definitely did not appreciate the interruption and instead, he asked her how much she knew of aether manipulation. The query came as a shock but she confessed that she studied the arcane and so he put her to work with a book, asking her to copy all the lines referring to ice elemental aether. Odette has no words but feeling absolutely defeated she obliged and did as he instructed, transcribing the text. Once done, she gave it back to him and then he finally confessed that he was hired to assist in curing her father and that was what he was working on currently. It opened her eyes greatly and she immediately felt horrible for her reaction from before. She apologized to him and he added that her father was safe, informing her that he was going to get better. Ecstatic, she thanked him and asked for his name and he introduced himself as [[Cesar Boulon]]. Relieved, Odette left the place and her feet brought her before the Forgotten Knight again and while she pondered whether to go in or not, she spotted a familiar and very unexpected face sitting by the fountain, immediately recognizing [[Sini'to Shadar]] after the events at the Sagolii Desert. The two exchanged a few words when man then spoke to them, making fun of Miqo'te behinds. Odette held back a laughter but as the two men continued their discussion, she couldn't hold back no more and burst into merry laughter. After some odd tug-o-war, they all went inside the Forgotten Knight to get away from the cold. Once inside, the Elezen man introduced himself as [[Valentin Vulaire]] and Odette introduced herself, leaving the last name out, and also her Miqo'te friend. [[Sini'to Shadar]] offered to get them all drinks and he soon came back with a large teapot and a few cups. As they all talked, enjoying the warmth compared to the freezing cold outside, another familiar face appeared, [[Maetiwyb Abylwaen]]. Odette greeted her warmly and urged her to join them at the table. She offered her cup to the woman, wanting to be cordial, and went over to the bar area to get herself a new one and there she met [[Simeon Sibaruse]], a fellow Highborn. While not very chatty, she invited him to join their table and he gladly obliged. His attention got quickly snatched by [[Sini'to Shadar]] as the two would engage in deep theology talks about Halone as well as the reasons behind the Miqo'te's decision to become a priest of the Fury. The discussion was rather hard and Odette merely listened, not wanting to intervene as they both appeared rather passionate about their beliefs. Odette went outside, cup in hand, wanting to check the weather. She slipped her gloves and hat back on and upon opening the door, she was still met with snow. She was about to go back inside but then [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to have followed her, so she stayed and they two exchanged a few words. He was quick to annoy her as he slid her hat over her eyes, and she decided to put it away, feeling that he would only do it again. Among the talk, he asked her why she no longer seemed to live in Ishgard, as she was definitely a Highborn; an element which was evident at mere glance. She wasn't about to talk openly about it on the streets of said city, and with a stranger, although he made it quite clear that he had no interest whatsoever of causing her issues. Putting her hat back on, she asked him to follow her and they moved to the walls of the Brume. With no one there, they could talk freely. She didn't go into the details but she did mention that she left her family for private matters, but that she came back because she heard her father was ill. But she was unable to approach the mansion, aware that the guards would recognize her immediately and that would've been a big problem. He seemed to feel for her and even offered assistance but she thanked him, aware that nothing could be done. Despite his kind-nature, he seemed to have some need to annoy people, or perhaps just her. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would get much too close to her, alarm bells going off in her head as he'd toy around with her, his fingers tracing along her chin and being dangerously close but she stood her ground. It got her absolutely flustered and he appeared to enjoy seeing her in such torment. Between the horrible teasing and earning a nickname 'petal' from him, he mentioned that he too was seeking to return to Thanalan so the two of them agreed to return together the following morning.
[[File:Valandodettemeet.png|500px|right|]]
Morning came and as agreed, she met with [[Valentin Vulaire]], the two heading towards the chocobo stables where they got a chocobo to share. They decided to have her take the lead and that they's switch halfway. All the time she could hear some loud metal clanking in his bag and when she asked him, he wouldn't answer, letting her guess but no matter what she said, it did not seem to be it. As they climbed onto the bird and made their way towards The Steps of Faith, Odette's enthusiasm dissipated and she explained to the man, recalling the night prior, that the guards cannot know who she really is. He just pat her shoulder, telling her t leave it to him. Sighing, she had little choice and agreed and they stepped forth. Two guards stopped them, one checking the chocobo while the other asked for their identities as well as their reason for leaving. [[Valentin Vulaire]] was quick to explain, stating that they were a married couple, presenting Odette as Odessa, and then he even recognized the guard, calling him Henry. Odette remained absolutely silent and shocked, not expecting that excuse, but it was a very good one she had to admit. Her 'husband' and Henry talked away, the guard asking him if he just got married to which he nodded, hugging Odette from behind to show the little affections that couples would share. She wanted nothing more than to slap him but she played along, remaining silent. The guard was quick to let them go and once they were at a safe distance, she did question [[Valentin Vulaire]]'s relationship with the guard. He explained that they used to study together but that he deemed the guy an imbecile. During the ride across Coerthas, he would tease her here and there and she somehow managed to survive that as eventually his focus turned elsewhere, to some sort of bronze statue he was carrying with him. As they reached the Shroud, out of nowhere he seemed to get some idea about the statue and in the fervor of the moment, he kissed her cheek, hopping off the chocobo to run to a nearby pond. She was absolutely perplexed and she parked the bird, quickly following him in worry. As she observed, he first dipped the statue into the water as it almost froze around him. He noticed it did no good so he took out a pan from his bag and then placed the statue in it before setting it on fire. Odette just gawked absolutely speechless and confused by the entire scene but she did not interfere. The statue changed appearance into that of Thal, the ruler of the underworld. The Elezen then explained that he was investigation a cult which was interested in summoning primals and that this statue was a thing of theirs. As he would try to pick up the statue, he burned himself a bit so Odette scooted the figurine into the cold watered with her boot, getting it out only once it had cooled down sufficiently. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would pat her head, perhaps thankful, while at the same time scratching at his bear, clearly annoyed by it. She chuckled and handed him a small pair of scissors and a pocket mirror of hers, and more jokes and teasing ensued as he tended to himself, later gluing himself to her and kissing her neck. When asked what he was doing, he simply stated that he was annoying her. He returned the scissors and mirror to her, mounting the chocobo as she would sit behind him, making certain to not fall off wrapping her arms around him. She was quick to doze off, lulled by his humming and the swaying of the bird as it ran across the forest. She came to once they reached Thanalan and she noticed a cut upon his cheek. Using her magicks, she healed the cut, content to be of some sort of help at least once. The teasing resumed regardless and she had to do her best to survive it until they would reach Ul'dah.

Odette learned that [[Arthain Garon]] was meant to duel at the Lynx one evening and she made it a must to go see him fight, even if brawls were not her thing or anything involving violence. Inside the Lynx, she ran into [[Malrinn Nures]] and the two ladies immediately caught up with each other and sat together while the fights went on. The first fight went well although Odette found herself looking away all the time, unable to take the severity and brutality of it which made her friend laugh quite a bit, suggesting that maybe a glass of wine would help. She immediately rejected it, and the Au Ra laughed, saying that it was fine since she too was trying to drink much less lately. As the first round came to a close, the girls went to the bar to get themselves something to drink. Just as her friend had suggested, Odette agreed to have a glass of wine to just loosen up and survive the barbaric fighting. [[Malrinn Nures]] also broke her promise of not drinking to join Odette on the endeavor and they returned to the arena to observe. [[Arthain Garon]]'s turn was up and Odette would lose herself as she drank her glass, cheering enthusiastically and with fervor for her friend. That was when behind her [[Valentin Vulaire]] appeared, stating that she was drunk bluntly. She fought back, not taking such an insult. [[Malrinn Nures]] joined on the talk, recognizing the man from nights prior as he seemed to be wooing some huntress, a statement he did not deny. It somehow soured Odette's mood and she remained distant for the rest of the evening. She tried to focus on the fight but unfortunately [[Arthain Garon]] lost. Regardless, she congratulated him on a job well done and as the final round started, she slipped outside to have a brief respite from the crowded place. Finally outside to enjoy some fresh air, the solitude was short-lived as [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to follow her, although it appeared to be mere coincidence. As they were alone again, she proposed they go for a walk as the night was still young and the weather was lovely. As they walked about the Goblet, she brought him to one of her favourite spots to stargaze although he expressed little interest in the area, but he did state that the stars were almost as beautiful as her. It surprised her each time he would be nice but she did love it. She'd ask him why he would be rude all the time and then have moments of actually being pleasant, but he just toyed with her and never replied to it. She would walk around, pacing, losing her footing as the slight tipsiness tugged at her, mumbling and grumbling under her nose. He bluntly stated that she was drunk and that she needed to sit but she ignored him. He proceeded to just pick her up and he moved to a set of benches, sitting her between his legs. He was a big mystery to her and it was absolutely annoying and yet oddly enticing. As he held her in his arms, he asked her if this was like one of those romance stories where the princess fell for a commoner. She countered that, stating that she was no princess and that neither was he some commoner. He still pressed his observation, asking if she did see this as an infatuation. She did not admit it, but deep down she knew that she did have a crush on the man despite his horrible nature; like a magnet it pulled at her. Remaining a gentleman, he asked her for a kiss and the two embraced. It was her first one. It was bitter-sweet as she couldn't believe to have fallen for such a bad character but it was beyond her. The kiss was short as she forgot to breathe and she broke it, gasping for air. He only laughed and soon the two parted ways as he needed to tend to his tasks. That was when Odette's linkpearl rang and she picked up, recognizing [[Malrinn Nures]]'s voice and the two girls talked, agreeing to meet up at Odette's apartment. Once there, Odette hosted her guest with some tea and biscuits and the Au Ra asked her what had happened since she had disappeared during the duel night. Odette did not admit to being intimate but she did say that she and [[Valentin Vulaire]] had a moment and that she did feel attracted to him. This worried her friend and she warned her that she did not see the man as a trustworthy person, foreseeing that following that path would only lead to heartbreak. Odette agreed, fully aware of this fact and she did want to try to somehow tone down the advances for her own good.
</spoiler>

'''Matters of the Heart''' (24)

<spoiler>
Wanting to relax a bit, Odette went to the Quicksand where she met [[Ferroux Quilmont]], a fellow Ishgardian Highborn. While skeptical at first, his genuine and adorable nature won her over easily and they sat together at a table, soon joined by a Lalafell named [[Pishrero Junerero]]. They learned that he was a businessman and owner of [https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900668170/ June's Crafts & Arms]. Odette introduced herself to both but left out her family name. The Elezen man also introduced himself, adding that he worked for the Garlond Ironworks back in Ishgard, assisting with the rebuilding of the city. The businessman immediately saw an opportunity there and offered to work together with the man, offering to write a letter to his superiors as a business venture. They all went to his company's headquarters in the Goblet where [[Pishrero Junerero]] filled out the paperwork and then handed it to the young lad. After business came pleasure and he gave the two Elezen a tour of the establishment. Their interest biggest at the top floor as it seemed to be an extravagant dinning area. Odette was truly amazed at the looks of it and the Lalafell was pleased at the feedback, explaining that the credit went to his employee [[Rorosa Rosa]]. Both Elezen took their leave however as they had other items to tend to, but both willing and intent on returning to make use of the place. As Odette returned to her company in the Goblet, she ran into some shenanigans before the household. She chose to ignore it, hearing some Miqo'te calling her a hot blonde but [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] immediately snapped back at the person, threatening to skewer them with his sword if they were to call his kinsman as such. Not wanting to get involved in the talk, she retreated silently to her apartment for the evening.
[[File:pishieandferroux.png|500px|left|]]
With All Saints' Wake around the corner, Odette found advertisements about a costume party at the Coeurl Consortium located in the Mists. While far, she knew that [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Reyza Blackwater]] were planning to go, and wanting to meet with her friends, she decided to go too. She assembled a simply costume of an angel, which she believed suited her best. Arriving at the location, she ran into [[Valentin Vulaire]] who was dressed as the total opposite, a devil. The two of them laughed at the polar opposites and entered the establishment together. The place was packed but Odette did get to meet a few people, among them [[Miraenne Nineux]], a fellow Ishgardian. She did meet her friends and the entire evening was spent with them. As the costume contest was announced, Odette started to debate whether to participate or not and taking into account [[Valentin Vulaire]] 's costume, she was willing to even enter as a duet. She asked him and he seemed to have no issues in joining her. Onstage she made the speech for them while he stood beside her looking intimidating but the prize went to another man. The Elezen man did not seem too content with it but Odette managed to soften it up and they all went back to mingling. While she enjoyed a chat with her friends, he seemed intent on drawing [[Malrinn Nures]] who was dressed as an appealing succubus. It did not sit with Odette too well especially when she remembered a few nights prior when they had kissed. While it wasn't jealousy, it was just a feeling of uncertainty towards the man. Once he left the place, Odette talked to [[Malrinn Nures]] and she offered her some good advice as well as comfort. The Au Ra would tease and flirt with Odette for the entire evening, playing up on her succubus costume. At first Odette had no idea how to react to it but eventually as she relaxed she played along, discovering tht the girl seemed to enjoy when she spoke Old Elezen so she allowed her to indulge in it. The rest of the evening was spent in good company before she returned to the Goblet for a good night's sleep, left to ponder about the future of her relations.

The next day while browsing books back at Raven's Heart, she ran into [[Hayase Daiuzu]] who as always was her timid and reserved self, although the girl expressed interest in Ishgard. She asked Odette if she could tell her about it and she most gladly obliged. The two sat down and Odette immediately got bombarded by the questions, struggling to answer any of them due to the speed at which they were thrown at her. The girl clearly had not a single idea of the place or even the Dragonsong War but Odette did not mind, explaining calmly whatever the girl desired. The Au Ra explained that she had something she wanted fixed and asked her if anyone in Ishgard could and that was when she recalled the Skysteel Factory. The girl showed her a weapon, looking alike to a gun but also a blade. She had never seen anything of the like but inspecting the mechanism, it did look alike to something that the Skysteel Factory could assist with. However, Odette warned the girl that Ishgard would most probably not even let her in considering her looks and how similar she was to a dragon. The reason seemed to completely fly over her head and Odette didn't delve into the topic further, but then [[Hayase Daiuzu]] seemed to want to have Odette take care of the matter. Odette immediately protested, telling her that she could not return to Ishgard but didn't explain why. That was when the Au Ra spotted [[Vildola Fyth]] by the stairs and immediately branded her food, wanting to eat some rabbit. Odette panicked and immediately picked the Au Ra up, using her height as an advantage, stopping her from eating her friend. The girl protested and kicked until [[Haru Rumei]] appeared and demanded an explanation. The Au Ra gave in and just left the group while Odette was left alone to explain what had happened with [[Vildola Fyth]] remaining on edge and clearly panicked. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] came down the stairs and stopped as he spotted the Viera, demanding that she handed in her staff but it only put the woman more on edge, refusing to give in while seeming to look like a trapped animal. [[Haru Rumei]] joined the talk but Odette decided to remain put, not wanting to add more pressure but when she heard her friend sob, she immediately ran to her side, asking her fellow Highborn man for allowance to handle the matter on her own. He allowed it and retreated together with the Au Ra, settling on the couches downstairs. Odette did her best to calm down her friend but the Viera had none of it, immediately running outside, leaving Odette speechless and guessing. Confused, she joined the other two downstairs, sitting down silently until [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] approached her and would start to touch her face, clearly interested in her. While in the past she brushed it off, this time she did understand perfectly the intentions behind his words and she wanted to just get swallowed by the couch. He was intimidating and at the same time she did fear him at a certain level as he was pro-Ishgardian. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] saw this and she just wanted to die of embarrassment, however she jumped up when he mentioned passing a Viera on the streets. Knowing in what direction she went, Odette was intent on finding her friend. The Highborn immediately granted her the leave, however he did say he was wounded that he did not get to spend as much time with her as he wanted, requesting them to spend some time together soon. She did not deny him this and agreed before venturing out. She was unable to find [[Vildola Fyth]] despite going the path that the Miqo'te had told her where he had seen the Viera. Still searching but to no avail, she was soon united again with the Miqo'te, as it seemed he had followed her to help her in the search. While skeptical and not generally enjoying his company, she did take his offer and they would search together. Thanks to his acute sense of smell, they soon found the Viera hiding away in a tunnel in the Goblet. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] decided to go around and block off the other exit to prevent the woman from escaping. Taking a few breaths, Odette stepped into the tunnel, deciding not to sneak up on her friend as it would only startle her further and make her run away, heels clicking with each step she took while she called her name carried by the echo. [[Vildola Fyth]] definitely heard her and was about to take off running but hearing Odette's calm tone she did remain and broke down crying on the ground. Odette sat beside her, arms around the poor thing as she sobbed. The Viera proceeded to explain that she was struggling in adapting to the new place, unable to interact with people, especially when they were like [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. Odette tried her best to calm her down, speaking kind and gentle words while she'd stroke her hairs but the Viera then said that she felt like a burden to her. She only had her and felt like she had no one to turn to, while at the same time only causing her issues. Odette quickly countered her words, stating that they were best friends and that she gladly would dedicate all her time to her. After some more talking, [[Vildola Fyth]] did calm down although she admitted she had nowhere to go, and then Odette told her that she could move in with her into her small apartment. The offer shocked the Viera but she took it and the two became roommates. After the long day, the woman decided to retire to the apartment for some much needed rest and Odette told her she'd join her soon after a small trip to the market to get some food for them to pass the evening together by the fireplace. As the Viera left, [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] came out of hiding, handing her the woman's staff as she seemed to had forgotten it. Odette took it, thanking him for his help. He immediately told her that he was amazed at her good heart and truly impressed by what she had done for her friend. It was a bit offending to know that he thought otherwise but she responded in kind, and the two reconciled with a handshake. He agreed not to speak of what was mentioned in the tunnel as well as her drunken state back when they had first met. She did appreciate it and would exchange a few more words before leaving towards the markets.

While at the markets, Odette made certain to pick out the freshest produce to share with her friend. Content to get a nice hefty bag-full, she started to make her way towards the Goblet but ended up smashing into a lamppost at a turn and she dropped everything while at the same time almost breaking her nose. Annoyed and disoriented, she quickly went about picking up all the fruit when suddenly another hand came into view. Looking up she recognized the man to be [[Varriz Relanah]]. He startled her and she fell back on her rear blushing, aware that he saw the entire incident. He chuckled, helping her out and inspecting any injuries she might have sustained. Noticing that the hit would leave a mark, he proposed to take her back to his shop where he had some healing balm which would help her. Although flustered, she gladly took him up on the offer. At the main square, he took to to his medium sized cart. She was truly amazed as she never got to see one up close and she was like a child set lose in a candy shop. Inside she inspected absolutely every single item, truly amazed and wanting to know everything about the origins of each of the trinkets. He sat her down before they got overly distracted and applied the balm to her forehead. Odette wanted to repay him but he refuse the money, instead wanting to have that walk with her which he had promised her a week prior. While a bit confused at the simple exchange, she did not mind and agreed; the two leaving the cart after she left her groceries there, not wanting to carry them around. He took her to the hill where the Coffin & Coffer we nestled into, wanting to present to her the gorgeous view from above. Despite the breathtaking view, it was clear that she had a much bigger interest in the man's wares back in his cart and he gladly guided her back to it where she proceeded to explore openly everything. As she would pick out something, he would tell her the story behind each item. Despite all the riches and luxurious, she was mostly attracted to the simple things like seashells which she had never seen in her life; it seemed to appeal to him. She inspected a kimono, as well as some shiny rocks, including dried leaves but what caught her eye the most was a musketoon which lay against a shelving unit. She inspected it, quickly remembering her lessons to learn to wield such a weapon. [[Varriz Relanah]] was quite surprised to see her adept at it and he did offer her the chance to polish up her skills, but only if she were willing to pay for the bullets. While tempting, she had another offer, wanting to buy the gun fully from the man. He was gladly willing to sell her the weapon and made her an offer, but she came up one gil short, and pleaded for a deal while laughing at how cliche it seemed. However, much to her surprise, he offered her a game and the winner could ask the other person anything. They had to describe two constellations each and the one to guess both, won. Odette did not inform him that she studied astromancy and so she won easily and as a prize, she requested her money back for the firearm. He was absolutely distraught at how shrewd she was.
[[File:Odettecorvinoixgun.png|500px|right|]]
Odette brought back the weapon to the company where she ran into [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], who immediately expressed interest in the wooden box she held. She opened it and presented him the weapon and he questioned her how come such a gentle and docile person had such a weapon. She explained to him that she was taught to use one when younger and that she managed to get it at a very good deal, free. He seemed genuinely interested in seeing her use it and he requested that she tests it. Seeing no harm in it, she loaded the cartridges in and prepped herself, until he commented that it felt nostalgic to him. Upon asking further, he explained that his mother too was a healer and thta her weapon of choice for self-defense was a gun. The conversation took a turn when he asked her if she would be willing to exchange their expertise, him teaching her melee combat, specializing as a dragoon, while she would teach him how to use a firearm. Odette saw no harm at all in teaching him but he warned her that on his side with the dragoon ways, she would be taught to kill an enemy without reservations for the best of the others. That notion did not sit well with her at all and she kindly rejected his offer; but she up-kept her side of wanting to teach him to use a gun. He commented that she was truly a light in the dark, her kind and soft nature always shinning through. She laughed and promised that despite not being an offence person, she'd make certain not to be a burden on the company, wanting to assist in any way possible. That was when he reminded her that she owed him a check up. Flustered that she had forgotten, she immediately offered to give him the check up immediately and he agreed. At the infirmary, she had him unclothe and that was when she was made aware of the sorry state of his body as it was littered in scars and burns. She checked him over carefully, using her magicks to make certain he was in good health but it was evident that his body was starting to feel the pressure and was worn out. She recommended him to take it easy, which he laughed at, stating she wasn't the only one to say so. Odette knew very well she wasn't the first to say so, and neither would she be the last. He got dressed and thanked her for her time, adding that he would try to take it easy.

The same evening, there was a meet-up at the Desert Carbuncle, a locale in the Goblet. Having nothing better to do she attended alone, but there she ran into [[Pishrero Junerero]] and then [[Ferroux Quilmont]] who joined much later. The trio stood by the bar as they engaged in conversation, the Lalafell and the man immediately touching base with business matters, but it seemed those got delayed due to usual business constraints. The Ishgardian then explained that is was his birthday a few days ago and that everything was going well on his side and he felt generous that evening, inviting his two friends to share a bottle of wine with him as he paid. The businessman refused the offer but Odette, not wanting to seem rude despite her weak head when it came to alcohol, accepted the offer with a smile. This pleased her friend and he immediately ordered an entire bottle for them to share while she prayed to the Fury for her safety and soberness. The two Elezen started drinking away and it was clear that Odette still had issues pacing herself as the men looked on at her with concern but she managed to keep it undercover quite well. [[Pishrero Junerero]] at some point left them to make some business connections and that was when the two Ishgardians spoke more openly. Odette told him of her newly acquired musketoon, explaining that it actually reminded of him since he worked for the Skysteel Manufactory. The notion made him really happy, but he then got curious and asked her if she actually knew how to use a firearm. She explained to him that she was taught to use it as a young girl as it was the only weapon with class that did not require brute force in her family's eyes. As the conversation kept going, she challenged her to a shooting, wanting to see who was the better shot between them as he deemed himself a specialist. She gladly took him up on the challenge, alcohol slowly starting to affect them both and making them much less shy and more charismatic. He said that he had a shooting range in the basement of his mansion back in Ishgard but that made her mood sadden as she reminded him that she could not really visit Ishgard whenever she wanted. That is when he came up with an idea to smuggle her in, literally. On a weekly basis, the Skysteel Manufactory got a shipment of parts from Eorzea and since he was such a workaholic working late hours, he was the only one who took care of opening the crates and ordering the ordered parts. If she were to sneak into one of the crates, or the ship itself, he would then be the one to get her out once she would arrive in Ishgard. The plan seemed perfect and she couldn't even express how happy she was to get such an offer and help from him, jumping up happily. He seemed just as happy and it also would provide him much needed company in his lonesome life. In exchange for his help and hospitality, she did offer him to stay over at her apartment anytime he needed or whenever he visited, however, she underlined that she could only offer him the couch as she was sharing the place with [[Vildola Fyth]]. He went red at the offer but he gladly took it up. A few more people appeared who talked to them but as the evening came to a close, Odette then asked him if he actually had time now for the challenge. He seemed just as hyped and said he had plenty of time so they decided to go test each others' skills immediately, leaving the Desert Carbuncle. He had hidden his gun in some bushes beside the house which made her laugh at how 'professional' it looked. They returned to her apartment in the Goblet where she quickly changed into something more comfortable and she fetched her revolver.
[[File:Odetteferrouxcouple.png|500px|left|]]
The two made their way to the high steps overlooking the Brimming Heart, from where they had the person view over the area as well as potential targets. They agree that the opponent would select the target for the shooter, and first one to get three points would win. She selected his target first and for the first two rounds, they got a perfect tie. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then proposed that they could actually make some deal for the winner to make the game more interesting and she saw no harm in it, although she had no idea what potentially to even ask for. he quickly cancelled the entire prize thing, finding it silly. Odette immediately figured him out and said that if all he wanted was her company, he did not need to win a bet to get it, but simply ask her and he would receive. He was amazed at her divination skills, thinking that it had to be some astrologian magic to read minds. She just laughed it off and they continued their game, for the last round selecting much smaller targets. He was up first and much to his dismay, but her glee, he missed the target. Luck was on Odette's side as she hit a perfect bull's eye on the target he selected for her, making her the winner. In the heat of the moment, she threw herself on him with a hug. While he stiffened at first from his nerves, he swiftly returned it, thanking her for everything. Despite his loss, he felt like a winner as he had met her and gained her friendship, including getting a hug from her. His words were extremely flattering and she smiled, explaining that if he ever wanted a hug he only needed to ask, as it wasn't anything taboo or forbidden. Bashfully, he requested for one more. She immediately embraced him and he indulged in the hug, telling her how grateful and happy he was to meet her back at the Quicksand, and she reciprocated the feeling, truly glad to have met him. She added that deep down, she wished that she had met him sooner, even while she resided in Ishgard, as she was certain his friendship would have changed her path. He understood her perfectly, and he too had a similar impression, explaining that he spent six years alone ever since his parents passed and that his loneliness would not have existed if they had crossed paths. His eyes started to water and she immediately went about cleaning his face should the tears start to fall and she comforted him. She told him that she'd visit him as much as possible, not wanting him to be alone, and now that he found a way to get her into Ishgard undetected, she could do it much more often. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then said that he did wish for more than to just spend time with her, which threw her for a loop. She did not know what else she could offer him apart from visiting him more often but he quickly clarified, confessing to her and asking her to be romantically involved with him. While it hit her hard, she definitely did not dislike the man. He was kind and gentle with her, and he clearly had his own hardships too, but he managed; just like her. It was evident that he cared and that he was desperate for affections; much like her too. She agreed. The two of them sobbed tears of joy and relief, noting that both were crybabies. She promised to try and tone down the crying, aware that if it kept on going they would never finish it. It was then that the two shared their first kiss, warm, tender and innocent. Both were knew to this but the feelings they shared were undeniable as they shared the embrace. He asked her after what they were to do after. Confused, she replied that they would just keep going and do things like normal couples did; going out, spending time together... He laughed, as he meant what they were to do that evening overall, not the dating part. She blushed embarrassed at the faux-pas and they returned to her apartment as he was anyway meant to spend the night there. Once back at the apartment, he expressed interest in meeting her flatmate [[Vildola Fyth]] but she was nowhere to be found. Odette explained to him her friend's situation, stating that the woman was also a foreigner but that she struggled with socializing and anxiety would hit her each time. She was lonely and had nowhere to go, thus, she took her in. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] immediately related with the unknown Viera, fully understanding how bad loneliness was. She explained to him that she would gladly introduce them to one another but that for the time being it was best not to force it, fearing her friend would just freak out anew as she remembered the incident from a few days prior. The couple sat together by the fire, talking into the late night until Odette started to slowly fall asleep over his shoulder. He noticed her passing out and debated whether to take her to her bedroom but he couldn't bring himself to it and the two of them drifted to sleep together on the couch.

The following evening there was a costume party at Raven's Heart to celebrate All Saints Wake, and so Odette invited [[Sini'to Shadar]] as well as [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. The priest came dressed as a grey pig which was definitely disturbing and even the Elezen man was left speechless when he met him. Odette dressed up as a very casual witch while [[Ferroux Quilmont]], being in a rush and having not much of a selection, dressed up on the fancy side with a simple moogle hat to top it off. The three headed over to the company house and were immediately greeted by many people. Some even seemed to know already of the relationship which made [[Ferroux Quilmont]] embarrassed and he spent the entire evening at Odette's side. At some point there has been a contest to locate four stuffed toys; the lights went off and panic ensued. The Elezen was so excited and wanting to win that he was dragging Odette all over the place and they did very well together however the win went to another. They did receive consolation prizes consisting of a few cookies and a bottle of wine each. The evening came to an early end and everyone went their way while the couple decided to retreat back to Odette's apartment to try out the wine they had won. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] tended to the wine and as he got it open, they would talk on many different topics, among them him asking her of her hobbies as well as favourite things. Odette learned that he was to return to Ishgard the following day and it saddened her, however she understood very well that it was for work and that it could not be avoided. She did promise that she would visit him no matter what, despite the risks. He appreciated it but did explain that he was planning on changing positions, wanting something more mobile or closer to her but she insisted that he did as his heart desired, not wanting him to change anything only for her sake. With the wine and the great company, the two got more intimate. Both being new at it, it was either awkward but the wine helped there with that. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] got worked up as did Odette as the two got heated and would explore a bit more of each others' bodies, however, Odette remained sane and stopped it before it got too far, stating that it was a bit too soon and that she did not want to do it without the necessary precautions. He agreed and after a moment they did calm down from the moment of fervor, deciding to retreat to bed. As they undressed, Odette noticed the amount of scars covering his left torso and it worried her. He told her the tale of an explosion of a gas tank which almost killed him but instead left him the large scar. His line of work definitely did not seem to be the safest but since it was something he adored to do, she did not voice any further concerns and the two went to sleep.

Morning came and [[Ferroux Quilmont]] departed for Ishgard. Odette, left alone, definitely felt the loneliness hit her immediately and her motivation and mood just dropped. She did not want to go out or anything, struggling to manage without him after such amazing two days. That was when [[Varriz Relanah]] paid her a visit and to get her out, he took her to another All Saint’s Wake costume party. Despite not feeling up for it, she did go and dressed up the same way as at the previous party while he got dressed as a creepy doctor. The event was at the Goblet which was convenient and once inside they ran into [[Sini’to Shadar]], dressed as a grey pig. Everyone was dumbfounded by this development and he definitely did everything to channel a pig in his costume, as far as making sound effects and pig noises. [[Varriz Relanah]] definitely questioned her choice of friends but both men did get along as they found common ground with the mercantile business. [[Simeon Sibaruse]] also happened to be at the event and he too began to question the people Odette attracted, but he did find it amusing. Everyone relaxed and mingled in peace, Odette definitely feeling much better and perked up in the presence of her friends when suddenly [[Valentin Vulaire]] made an appearance and immediately set his sights on her. [[Varriz Relanah]] immediately stepped in, taking up a protective posture, which I turn, made [[Valentin Vulaire]] believe that he was her partner and it triggered new talks. He would touch her and try to sweet-talk her, and then he asked her to join him on a trip. She was left shocked and started to ask questions, wanting the reasons for the trip and when it was meant to be; to which he replied immediately. Odette refused and told him they would talk tomorrow as she could not leave right now out of nowhere. He did not seem too pleased but he agreed and then took his leave. The encounter exhausted her but she managed to enjoy the event regardless, including witnessing [[Sini’to Shadar]] winning the costume contest.

Odette was woken up by a knock on her door at an obnoxious hour, rolling out still in her nightgown to rush to the door. As she opened it, it was [[Valentin Vulaire]]. While she knew they were to meet, she did not expect it to be even before sunrise. He invited himself in while she tried to wake up, quickly brushing through her hairs with her fingers to make herself look a bit more presentable. Wasting no time, she asked him what was going on yesterday, wanting to know why he needed to go to Ishgard immediately, and why with her. He then explained that it need not be Ishgard and that he simply desired to go away somewhere with her. The news shocked her and she found herself struggling to accept such an offer due to her current status. Seeing it as an amicable outing, she began to pack her things until he then told her it would be a date. She immediately stopped her packing and told him up front that she could not go with him as she was seeing someone. It was evident that he did not appreciate the news and even tried to coerce her into coming along with him regardless, trying to kiss her in the process but she refused him and he left her alone, leaving the apartment. Distraught and confused, feeling lonely, Odette remembered that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] had left her his linkpearl. Despite the early hours of the morning, she called him and caught him in the middle of work. He immediately took a break to be able to speak with her, clearly extremely happy to hear her. She refused to tell him of what had happened but she admitted to missing him and asked if she could actually try out his plan of smuggling her in. Surprised but definitely not against it he informed her that a shipment to Ishgard was due in a few hours and she agreed to be on it. They exchanged a few tenders words and Odette prepped for the journey. In Ul’dah at the airship landing she immediately was able to locate the airship bound for Ishgard and she hid herself in one of the crates without anyone noticing her. To keep herself occupied she had taken with herself a small book and nothing else, the crate much too tight to take anything else with herself. The journey wasn’t bad at all as most of it was relatively quiet but as the ship would approach Ishgard, the freezing cold was undeniable and she had forgotten to take her jacket with herself, especially when living in Thanalan. It got a bit warmer once it seemed the crates were finally deposited somewhere and she was able to discern voices and footsteps. She was sweating bullets, worried that someone other than [[Ferroux Quilmont]] would find her, which would definitely end her. To her relief, she then heard his voice called for her and she knocked on her crate to let him know where she was. He immediately got her out and the two shared an embrace, overjoyed to reunite even if they hadn’t seen each other for only two days. Seeing her shaking from the cold he immediately gave her his coat, taking her to the employee room where they shared a quick meal he had prepared for them. While eating, Odette gently told him of what had happened and it definitely did not sit well with him but he did not want to alarm her and so he kept his cool. Among the talks, he asked her why she couldn’t enter and leave Ishgard at ease. While she did not want to speak of it, especially to him, she understood that it was something which he deserved to know. Odette proceeded to explain her betrothal to another from another House and how she escaped. He did not expect such a tale, and while he understood her, he felt sorry for her family who missed her. She too understood his point of view but she wasn’t about to throw away her hard work for them nor her freedom. However, the matter did get him thinking, debating as far as even having her marry him so the family would be unable to wed her to another. The idea definitely was not a bad one but both of them agreed that it was much too early to even debate such things, leaving them flustered and embarrassed. Once they finished the meal, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] quickly cleaned up and they went for a walk in the city. He decided to take her towards the Brume, which she never had the occasion to explore thoroughly. During the walk they talked of many things, and their affections would merely strengthen each time, each one supporting the other. At the Forgotten Knight they shared some tea by the fire as more talks started, this time about family and the state of House Quilmont. Odette always reinforced that she did not care of his status and that she accepted him fully no matter what. While he knew the words were heartfelt, it still pained him that he could not give her what he wanted. Once finished, they then went back to his place.
[[File:Ferrouxandodetteinoffice.png|400px|left|]]
The house was definitely rundown and struck with poverty, but it was clear to see that it used to be a grand mansion. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was definitely ashamed of the fact but Odette was well aware of the reasons and did not blame him in the least. Quite the contrary, she found the place cozy. He gave her a tour of the entire place, her attention definitely on his small office where she asked him if he ever slept there. He nodded. Odette knew very well that he neglected himself and she did not approve, hoping to perhaps change that during her stay with him. She inspected his bookcase while he wrapped his arms around her waist, asking if she was into engineering books. Alas, chuckling, she replied that she was much more into poetry and romance novels but she proposed that she’d gladly read to him sometime in the evenings. He seemed to enjoy the idea and agreed. Next room was his workshop. It was a different world for her as she inspected all the machines and his contraptions, immediately complimenting him on his talents. Modestly he appreciated her words but he did not see it as talent. Odette quickly clarified and explained to him why she saw it as amazing, leaving him blushing and flattered. He too then proceeded to compliment her, learning that she was a talented piano player. After a long exchange, he proposed that they move back upstairs and have some wine, or sit on the couch. Unable to choose, she decided they have some wine by the fireplace. Amused he agreed and he went to fetch one of the best bottles of wine his father had kept, wanting to share it with her. Odette still struggled with drinking alcohol but she did not want it to be a problem when spending time with him, so she pushed her boundaries a bit. As they drank the wine and enjoyed each other’s company, she asked him about his parents, genuinely wanting to know more. While he seemed at peace with it all, it was clear that he still pained him at times. Odette gladly listened as he described his parents to her, adding that for certain they would have liked it. It definitely made her smile, the talk and the wine calming her down. As the evening carried on, they drank more and more and it relaxed both introverts to the point them beginning to make out fervently, shyness dimmed and other senses heightened. As they got more and more into it, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] proposed they move to the bedroom. She agreed and he took her there, where both of them froze up completely. The reality loomed over both and neither were capable to initiate anything. Odette took a deep breath, genuinely wanting this with him and refusing for her shyness to be the barrier from them consummating their relationship. Reaching deep for some much needed courage, she took the lead, having him sit at the edge of the beg and cradling herself over his lap. He was left speechless but seeing her take the lead, he too tried to push past his timid side. The two of them slowly relax as they would slowly shed pieces of clothing, revealing themselves more and more to each other, no barriers or secrets left. A most tender and intimate night followed as the two finally consummated their relationship, Odette having her very first experience with him, and she did not regret it one bit.

In the afterglow, [[Ferroux Quilmont]], out of nowhere, asked her to move in with him. It left Odette speechless and he immediately thought that perhaps his words were too soon but she countered him in seconds, expressing her joy and fully willing to move in with him in a heartbeat. He was overjoyed to hear this and cried together with her in glee. However, this brought up an entire new conversation as Odette started to debate how she could return to Ishgard but still remain unfound by her family, but still be able to function freely around the city. While discussing the options, she came up with the brilliant idea to become a private tutor to other Houses, aiming to teach the children etiquette as well as everything necessary to be worthy Highborn to a noble house. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was surprised but he definitely could see her succeeding, as she took went through such strict upbringing and she knew it through and through. But, it would expose her even more by becoming known around the Houses. It was still a smart move to be in plain sight and yet hidden. Odette felt excited about being able to find some form of employment in Ishgard to be able to assist with the finances, but she needed a new identity. She then asked him if she could use House Quilmont as her cover up. This shocked him, but he was flattered that she wanted to carry his family name. Then the debate on whom she would be within the household began, and jokingly he stated that she could be simply Odette Quilmont. The two of them got flustered immediately and they just panicked, understanding that he meant her posing as his wife. Odette was the first to calm down and decided that she would simply be a tutor from House Quilmont, offering her services to other Houses. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] agreed. He then asked her about her life back in Thanalan, about her apartment and also her allegiance towards her company. She explained that she would leave her keys to [[Malrinn Nures]], allowing her to tend to her place, or simply give it away fully to [[Vildola Fyth]] as she did need a place to stay at. As for her loyalty towards Raven’s Heart, she had partaken in a meeting where [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was leaving them for a prolonged period of time, leaving the company in the hands of his second in command. No one appeared to trust the woman and Odette was there solely due to her agreement with [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], thus, she had nothing holding her there anymore. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] didn’t feel too comfortable with her abandoning her life in Thanalan but he was overjoyed to have her move in with him. It appeared that everything was settled and Odette had a lot to plan in the coming days to set it all in motion.
</spoiler>

'''Feeling of Belonging''' (24-Current)

<spoiler>
With [[Ferroux Quilmont]] occupied with work, Odette ventured out to the Jeweled Crozier to browse the wares. Once there, she purchased three books, each contained some fairy-tales as well as light romances. Still looking about, the moment she turned around she immediately spotted and recognized [[Malrinn Nures]] tending to a stall selling flowers. Odette immediately approached her and the two girls shared an embrace, both thrilled to have run into each other, and surprised to see the other in Ishgard. The Au Ra quickly explained that she did live in Ishgard most of her time and that she was a florist while Odette gently said that she was staying in Ishgard, most likely permanently. This immediately piqued the girl's interest and she closed her stall for the moment to go have something warm to eat with the Elezen. The two went over to another area of the market where Odette purchased them some stew and hot chocolate to warm up, settling on a set of stairs to each in peace despite the cold. While Odette nursed her bowl in her lap, warming up her hands, the Au Ra immediately asked her why she was deciding to stay in Ishgard. Blushing, Odette then explained that she had met someone and that they had moved in. This came as a huge shock to her friend but the girl was very understanding, immediately expressing her joy and aware that if it was something that Odette had decided to follow, then it had to be right. This came as a huge relief to her, glad to have the support of her dearest friend. [[Malrinn Nures]] then also mentioned that she had met someone and was going out. This news overjoyed Odette and the two girls exchanged some girly talks, enjoying their time together and the banter, the Au Ra going as far as asking about intimate things which immediately made Odette blush and unable to respond. Once done, the two returned to the Au Ra’s flower stand where they talked some more, Odette mentioning that [[Ferroux Quilmont]]’s mansion was a bit rundown and that she would like to bring more life to it. That was when [[Malrinn Nures]] decided to give her some flowers to liven up the place and she proposed a beautiful set of potted Azalea’s. Odette was absolutely thrilled at the gift, asking what she wanted in exchange to which her friend replied, half-jokingly, that she’d want to be the florist for her wedding ceremony once it would happen. Flustered, Odette agreed and the two parted ways, both extremely happy to have met one another.

Returning to House Quilmont, Odette would set down her books and the pot of Azalea’s by the table near the door while she removed her outerwear. Taking a moment to listen in, she could hear some noise coming from downstairs, suspecting it had to be her partner who had come back from work earlier. She descended the stairs, calling for him and the response was almost immediate, accompanied with the noise of items falling to the floor before the doors to his workshop opened, a cloud of smoke escaping the room. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was a mess as per usual but clearly thrilled to see her as he embraced the woman, while she looked behind him to inspect the mess, noticing his desk in disarray and a pile of papers laying all over the floor. The two of them quickly cleaned up the place and Odette mentioned to him that she met her best friend at the market, mentioning that she was an Au Ra. This worried him as their kind wasn’t too welcome but Odette reassured him that [[Malrinn Nures]] was a strong character and that she could manage on her own. She then added that the girl had gifted them a pot of flowers to decorate the mansion, which overjoyed him. Odette motioned him to follow her back upstairs once they were done with cleaning to show them to him but he swept her off her feet, carrying her back to the ground floor. Her hands immediately snaked behind his neck for support as he held her in his arms, sharing a tender embrace as he brought her upstairs. Odette then showed him the beautiful fuchsia flowers as well as the three books she had purchased. He thanked her immediately for bringing the flowers as well as bringing more life to the mansion, which fueled the next conversation. She mentioned that she had been to the attic to inspect what was up there, as well as searching for actual clothes for herself as she had brought nothing with herself. Luckily she had found some clothes to be able to perfectly camouflage herself when out and about. It definitely got him curious and he followed her to the attic. He immediately noticed that she had cleaned up a large portion of the place, mostly a part contained closets and chests. Inside of them, Odette had found lots of female attire, suspecting it to be his mother’s, which he later on confirmed. She quickly threw on a coat which seemed like a teachers garb, including a pair of lenseless glasses before tying up her fabulous blonds into two plain braids. Despite the simplicity, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] found her rather charming in the clothes which definitely flattered her. She did find more dresses and clothes and he immediately commented that he would not mind having her wear any of them, his mother definitely would have approved. This truly lessened her worries as well as warmed the heart to know. The two of them decided to go outside to get some groceries done, while at the same time testing her getup.

Before heading out, she did note that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was rather filthy since he had been at work, his face caked with oils and dirt. He laughed agreeing and told her to give him a few minutes to go wash himself. She then settled herself over the couch with one of the books she had purchased, keeping herself busy while he tended to himself. Shortly after she heard some whistling, assuming it was him so she rose her head from her book to look but then spotted him waltzing past completely naked! She immediately called out his name alarmed and he was then made aware that he wasn’t alone, quickly taking the towel from his head to wrap it around his waist before darting towards the bedroom to change. Odette remained there sitting absolutely frozen until he finally came out, fully dressed and ready to head out. It was evident that he too was caught off-guard, haven forgotten that she was there as he acted on pure habit. The awkwardness was evident and to loosen it up, she chuckled and ran out the front door, calling him to follow along. Confused, he followed her outside only to be greeted by a snowball to the chest. He immediately burst into laughter, collecting snow in his hands and throwing it back at her. The two continued their antics, Odette content to see him calm down and loosen up after the little exposure from before. The back and forth continued for a while until he finally won by throwing her onto a pile of snow, threatening to throw snow down her shirt. Despite the silliness, the two kissed and shared another tender moment between their fun; before finally getting up and heading towards the market. At the market, the two struggled to decide what to even get; Odette completely inept at cooking while [[Ferroux Quilmont]] appeared a bit more comfortable with it, but still quite lacking. They decided to make his favourite: meatpies. But both had no idea how to even begin and they debated getting perhaps a cooking book. He opted not to, seeing it as a challenge and a way to have fun. They quickly purchased a few basics they assumed logical like eggs, milk, butter, flour…etc

Walking back home hand in hand, they began to talk about dinner as well as some idle casual talk. Among the topics however, he mentioned wanting to spend a lovely evening with her, to which she replied that she hoped for more than just one evening. This brought him joy and he went as far as saying that he hoped it would be for the rest of her life, and to his surprise, she did not mind, agreeing to the notion. This did make him freeze up in surprise and she would go about kissing his cheek, wanting him to calm down a bit, aware that he was perhaps embarrassed. Unknown if due to confusion or he just blurted out his thoughts without thinking, he then asked for her to become his wife; quickly adding that it did not have to be immediately or the next day, but someday, wanting her to become Odette Quilmont officially. It rendered her absolutely speechless, immediately asking him he meant it to be her cover-up while residing in Ishgard or if it was a genuine question. To her question, he dropped down to one knee, proposing to her officially and asking for her hand in marriage. She had not expected it to ever happen in her life, betrothed to another by her family; and yet her heart sung out to him. Despite escaping one marriage, she felt this one was right and she wanted it. She felt to her knees before him, embracing him as she wept tears of joy. He was taken aback for a moment, processing what had just happened before it finally reached him that she agreed to the union. His arms wrapped around the woman as he promised to cherish her forever as she promised to be always at his side. The two remained wrapped around one another, allowing the moment to sink in before finally getting up and heading back to the mansion. Odette felt like nothing could stop her anymore, especially with [[Ferroux Quilmont]] at her side. He was her everything and he made her the happiest woman in the realm that day. He casually mentioned that he still was amazed that she was with him, unable to understand why. She smiled, replying that she’d show him later on just what she sees. It got him to blush but he wasn’t opposed to it, his thoughts definitely leaning towards intimate ones. Lost in her thoughts, Odette suddenly smacked her head dead onto a lamppost right before the gates to the mansion, immediately kneeling to the ground as her hands pressed to her forehead. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] went mental with worry, immediately picking her up, assuming the worst. She tried to calm him done but he wouldn’t have any of it, kicking the front door of his house open before laying the woman over the couch. She remained absolutely perplexed, more worried about the state of the door than herself as she felt perfectly fine. He went about closing the door before he returned to her. She reassured him again that she was fine and he finally gave in, seeing that she was alright. He got up and would ask her if she wanted to cook immediately or relax a bit before beginning. Her arms then wrapped around him as she pressed herself to his back, timidly asking for some cuddles. He was genuinely happy to hear such a request and agreed, first quickly setting the foods in the kitchen before returning to her to join her on the couch. Once he was there, she beamed and would cradled herself in his life, picking out a small pocket-mirror out of the pockets of her skirt. She flipped it open, having the mirror face him so he could see his reflection and she proceeded to explain to him just what she saw in him, as promised a few minutes prior. A heart of gold, a caring personality, smart, loving, generous; and the list went on. [{Ferroux Quilmont]] was left speechless, become more and more red by the minute. He then returned the favour, much to her surprise, stating all the qualities that he loved about her; beautiful, kind and brave, adding the fact that she saved a man’s life from a lifetime of solitude. He was absolutely overjoyed to have this exchange and he embraced her anew, reiterating his undying love for her.

They exchange a few more tender words until Odette decided to take the initiative, her arms sliding past his shoulders to grab hold of the back of the couch, pressing her body against his own. He immediately caught on and would have his hands over her before having her lay down over the couch with him over her. Both still flustered about the entire thing, it still would not deter their determination, Odette wanting to experience more intimacy with him just as much as he wanted with her. They began innocently, both red, but their bodies and hearts calling for one another. They shared they second intimate evening wrapped around one another in a tight embrace, Odette never wishing to part and intent on being less shy around him. In public she was the one who was much more open, but when alone with him, their roles would reverse, her being shy and him more forthcoming.

One evening after going out to purchase more books for herself, back at the mansion, Odette ran into [[Ferroux Quilmont]] conversing with [[Simeon Sibaruse]]. Her partner immediately greeted her overjoyed to see her, and yet he appeared flustered and embarrassed, struggling to form words. Confused, she asked the two of their topic of discussion and the older Elezen replied that they spoke of touching. It only worked to confuse her further, unable to comprehend what was so bad about that. Her second-half would whisper to her ear, explaining as best as he could but it still failed until the guest clarified that they spoke of intimacy with each of their partners. The result was immediate as her face went as red as her partner's, [[Simeon Sibaruse]] meanwhile quite literally laughing to his heart's content. She settled herself between the two of them on the couch, the man still teasing and poking fun at her partner but she quickly stood up to him, gently requesting for him to stop which he did, deeming that he sufficiently had the youngster suffer. Regardless of the teasing, he expressed that he genuinely was pleased to see the couple together and that he saw them as a perfect fit, wishing them the best. The news overjoyed her and she expressed her gratitude to the man together with [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. They exchanged a few more words when the men then moved on to the topic of the Ishgardian restoration. Not wanting to be in their way and wanting to go indulge in her new books, she excused herself to head downstairs and the two men would continue talking away.

As planned, Odette returned to Eorzea, needing to close up any loose ends before officially returning and staying in Ishgard.
She entered the Raven's Heart establishment, and perhaps she was lucky, as she found not a soul inside. Walking over to the notice board, she sighed heavily, a paper she had written beforehand in her hands as they shook nervously. She did feel a bit guilty but her loyalties were elsewhere. At a prior reunion at the company, [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was going to leave to tend to the Ishgardian restoration and with him gone, nothing was tying her to the place. She had no quarrels with anyone but her heart was back in Ishgard too. With that in mind, she pinned her letter to the board before heading out the door, leaving the company for good, but in her heart, she hoped it wasn't forever and that she would still meet the few people she had made friends with during her stay.
</spoiler>

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Gallery'''</div>===

<gallery>
Kalayahandodette.png|K'alayah & Odette
Taluhtotalk.png|Talking with Taluh'to
Corvinoixandodette.png|Corvinoix & Odette
brokenfinger.png|New Infirmary
Odetteandkaida.png|Kaida & Odette
arthainduel.png|Arthain's Duel
Valandodettekiss.png|Valentin & Odette Bonding
friendlyadvice.png|Friendly Advice from Malrinn
shootingbet.png|Ishgardian Passtime
talkingthenightaway.png|Odette & Ferroux
allsaintswakerhrp.png|All Saints Wake
</gallery>

[[Category:Character]] [[Category:Player Character]] [[Category:Elezen]] [[Category:Ishgardian]] [[Category:Duskwight Elezen]] [[Category:Character Stub]]

Odette Veaureaux

2020-03-24T12:11:21Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Gallery */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Odette Veaureaux
| image = odetteveaureauxprofile.png
| imagewidth = 340
| caption = "I had all the riches a person could desire...but freedom was not a luxury I could afford"
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ishgardian
| race = [[:Category:Elezen|Elezen]]
| clan = [[:Category:Duskwight Elezen|Duskwight]]
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 24
| stat_2 = Nicknames
| stat_2_value = Petal, Swan
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Noblewoman
| stat_4 = Guardian Deity
| stat_4_value = [[Halone, the Fury]]
| stat_5 = Marital Status
| stat_5_value = Betrothed to [[Ferroux Quilmont]]
| stat_6 =
| stat_6_value =
}}
<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''About The Player'''</div>
* '''Time Zone:''' CET - Poland
* '''Nationality:''' Canadian-Polish
* '''Server:''' Omega
* '''FC''': None
* '''Lodestone:''' [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/27316543/ Odette Veaureaux]
* '''Additional Characters:''' [[Meriell Bell]], [[Rinako Ura]], [[Shin Nelhah]], [[Black Forest]], [[Rorosa Rosa]], [[Zetoh'a Velshado]], [[Bernadette Bearclaw]], [[Berold Bearclaw]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''General'''</div>===
'''Odette Aveline Geneviève Celestria de Veaureaux''', commonly referred to simply as "'''Odette'''", is a highborn noblewoman hailing from The Hole See of Ishgard.

With family roots stemming back millennia to form a very devoted household to the Theocracy, as well as being very traditional in it's beliefs, she lead a very secluded and controlled lifestyle.
She followed her family in their wishes, having truly no choice in anything in her life. Years of being groomed to carry on the noble title with dignity while being the embodiment of a lady, she remained silent, unaware of the lands outside nor what freedom they offered. As her hand was given in marriage to a complete stranger from another noble house, she would slowly start to notice the cracks in her supposedly perfect lifestyle. As the doubts grew, so did her yearning to break away from her restrained lifestyle and family. It was then that a group of adventurers from Ul'dah assisted her in her escape.

In Ul'dah, with nowhere to go and confused by the completely new lands, she joined [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900646603/ Aurora Eorzea], where they took great care of her, as well as sheltering her from her family who, no doubt, was searching for her. Her cooperation did not last long as she met a fellow Ishgardian nobleman who immediately gave her a deeper purpose in his company, wanting her to assist in the infirmary as well as healing the wounded at [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900660662/ Raven's Heart]. It came with a sense of home to serve under another Highborn and she took his offer gladly but this was short-lived as a chance encounter with another Highborn named [[Ferroux Quilmont]] turned her entire world upside down, falling deeply in love with the man to the point of returning to Ishgard to move in with him while remaining still hidden from her family.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Personality'''</div>===
Genteel, calm and serene, Odette is the pillar of composure, grace and beauty.
She always has something nice to say to everyone and will do it with utmost class, style and dignity, displaying her strict noble upbringing at all times as it is not something she can hide. Highly educated and always polite, she always refers to others on a formal basis, unless said person requests otherwise.
Odette is extremely friendly to anyone and usually won't ever avoid people, unless given good reason to. She is unable to use slang words or curse words; a thing which simply doesn't click with her due to her childhood. She does not mind if others use slang or shorter versions of words, but heavy curse words will always ruffle up her feathers and she shuns such individuals. She is always very eloquent and elegant with her words as well as her mannerisms; an absolute lady in every aspect. She struggles to be more casual as well as to adapt to normal Eorzean life but she is willing to push herself to be able to mingle better with others.

She isn't one for violence and shall avoid it at all costs, always pushing for peace via diplomacy. Very articulate and soft-spoken, she is able to often calm down situations as long as they do not require brute force. If there is some uproar or ruckus in the vicinity, she is one to avoid it, preferring not to even be involved.

Despite all her advantages, she is very easy to be lied to, as she is very trusting of strangers due to a naive nature. She is not used to teasing, flirting or even jokes and they always send her for a spin, unknowing how to react to them. She often blushes in embarrassment and would try to diffuse the situation, but most often she would end up merely embarrassing herself even further. She has no experience at all with normal interactions with others and she struggles to understand at times the meanings behind peoples' actions. Fretted by the touch of a butterfly's wing, ready to faint at the sound of a beetle or the rattling of a window pane at night, she is a very skittish person, easily startled if approached out of nowhere.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Appearance'''</div>===
[[File:Odetteappearance.png|520px|left|]]
Odette is a woman of absolute beauty and exemplar refinement, which is impossible to go unnoticed.

She has gorgeous golden blond locks, semi-tied into a braid reaching to her mid-back; only at times pinned up into a tight bun. A pair of stunning and brilliant big icy-blue eyes. At simple glance anyone can say that she is a noblewoman, her fingers untouched by manual labour and her skin unexposed to the sun, white almost like porcelain or the freshest milk.. She takes great care of her looks, often spending hours by the mirror, making sure that she is presentable for the day. As most her kind, she is fairly tall, however among her own people she would not be considered the tallest, standing at a good average height among Elezen. A slender and delicate build, she is the embodiment of feminine charm and elegance.

Being a noblewoman, she tends to wear long garbs or gowns, often decorated intricately with embroidery or gemstones which came to the floor. While most nolewomen wore colourful fabrics, her favourite dress is a simply pale blue Ishgardian gown, void of any elaborateness but padded from the inside with fur to keep her warm. Not one for jewelry, she only wears simple crystal earrings, not wanting any bracelets or necklaces as she feels they get too much in the way. With some attire, she also wears a pair of sheer-white gloves, most commonly used when meeting people and not doing anything which would entail dirtying her hands. For footwear, she always wears her favourite pair of white, thigh-high Ishgardian boots. Odette was not one to wear headpieces but when cold, she would wear a pale blue cap with a small veil at the back which she would often keep at the front to shield her face.

She started to try and dress much more casual and common, pairing her own attire with some more everyday pieces of clothing. Trousers started to make way into her wardrobe as well as simpler blouses and shirts. But no matter what she wore, her noble upbringing was always evident at first glance, if not even just by how much care she took of herself.
With recent developments, she began to dress even more casual with darker colours making an appearance as well as a pair of glasses over her nose, the look more alike to a tutor or teacher more than a noblewoman. Her fabulous blonds tied up in a braid going around her head and often hidden under a cap. Despite the immense change in attire, when one would look closer, they would spot that she was a beauty under all the rags regardless.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Occupation'''</div>===
[[File:Astrologyodette.png|580px|right|]]
Being a noble and the youngest of the family, Odette had no job or occupation, other than studying.
She is very highly educated, especially in all sorts of literature and teachings. Manners and etiquette were of prime importance, including how to curtsy and how to mix with the greatest nobles in Ishgard. Time would be spent learning how to dance and ride. Some housewifely duties such as preserving fruits, sewing, embroidery and household management were also taught, to prepare her for her duties as a married woman. Expecting her to run the household in the possibility of the absence of her husband to be, it was imperative that she be literate and have reasonable mathematical skills so that she might run these with efficiency and be able to check whether her household costings seemed reasonable. She was taught to read, write, tell stories, read romances and judge the merits of poetry. Her favourite were leisure romances and poems as well as holy scriptures. She often undertook singing lessons and was instructed in multiple musical instruments.
Her spiritual education was critical being Ishgardian, and she would be extremely devout to Halone like most noble families.

Aside from her noble upbringing, she also learned the art of astromancy which came at a very early age, as her parents would send her daily to the Atheneum Arcaneum to study with the elders. They only saw fit that she learned to channel her Aether in a useful way, and being a trouble-maker as a child, it was a good activity to keep her mind busy from all her other studies which were dull to her. Odette enjoyed greatly reading the night sky and its constellations, and was an ace student. She mastered the skill of foresight and would learn to wield the magicks of the stars in her hands as she got to hold her very first star globe. She has never applied her skills in combat and has no experience outside of normal use as she specialized in healing magicks.
At the behest of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], she was put in charge of tending to the wounded during missions as well as afterwards in the infirmary. She made it her priority, making certain that they were stocked up on all medical supplies and she even took pride in her newly found job, wanting to assist people as best as she could.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Combat'''</div>===
Odette has absolutely no experience in battle, only having been exposed once to a mission and she did not enjoy it one bit.

Being a noblewoman, she has no endurance or stamina to show for, nor strength for that matter.
While not a fighter, she does offer a supportive role as a healer and helper to her companions, putting their safety and needs above her own at times. She utilizes her natural Duskwight assets of a very acute sense of hearing as well as her eyesight in the dark.

She was offered to be taught the ways of the dragoon by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but she rejected it, unable to bring herself to hurt another person no matter the circumstance. She prefers to offer succor to people, and not inflict pain. He respected her decision; however, she did turn towards firearms after buying one off [[Varriz Relanah]]. As a young lady back in Ishgard she was taught to use them, as the Skysteel Manufactory was renowned and the family deemed it a fitting weapon, elegant and not requiring physical confrontation.

However, when put under extreme pressure or when someone is in danger, she can surprise all those around her, even herself, by showing incredible bravery, most likely fueled through adrenaline. On one occasion needing to reach a device at the bottom of a crate filled with poison oozing-worms; she took off her shirt and wrapped her arm in it to reach inside and obtain the device to complete the mission. Her devotion is unquestionable and even if she does not enjoy being on the front-lines, she is definitely an asset to any team.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Tendencies'''</div>===
'''Likes'''
::* Afternoon tea time
::* Sugary confections
::* Kind and honest people
::* Warm weather with sunny skies
::* Beautiful and artsy objects/decor

'''Dislikes'''
::* Profanity and vulgarism
::* Being treated differently due to social standing
::* Stuck-up and arrogant people
::* Extremely direct and inappropriate conversations
::* Alcohol / Drunkenness
::* Swimming, since she cannot swim at all

'''Hobbies'''
::* Observing the night sky
::* Studying different cultures
::* Discovering the world
::* Stitching and embroidery
::* Playing music
::* Indulging in poetry and leisure romance novels

'''Skills'''
::* Very skilled piano and harp player
::* Fervent poetry writer

<div style="border:0px solid; padding:8px;"><b>
<div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #90AB76;">◢ Common Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is a beauty both inside and out. A lady through and through"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #F37E1D;">◢ Uncommon Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#F37E1D;" size="3">■</font> "Despite all her beauty, she looks to be an airhead and an idiot like all other nobles"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #D83018;">◢ Rare Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#D83018;" size="3">■</font> "Don't let her serenity fool you... She can be quite the rebel when needed"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #aac5b4;">◢ PC Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Relationships'''</div>===

<center><font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Family    <font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> Love    <font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> Platonic    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Failed     <font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> Good    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> Neutral    <font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> Poor    </center>

'''Family'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Asoix Veaureaux (57)
The head of the family and father of Odette and Clauvort. A powerful man of high standing, not taking 'no' for an answer under no circumstances. He was never close to anyone in his family as he was more of a leader than a father or husband; distant and unattainable to anyone. Odette never saw him as more than the leader of their family and never had any relationship with the man.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Jucette Veaureaux (53)
Jucette is Odette's mother; a kind and genteel woman, much like her. Everyone would say that Odette was the exact copy of her mother, only younger. Odette was always a mother's girl and she adored spending time with her, until slowly noble life would catch up and duties called as well as her studies and the two drifted apart fairly quickly. Her mother wanted to see nothing more but to have Odette grow into a beautiful and distinguished woman, at the same time, ignoring the girl's happiness.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Clauvort Veaureaux (29)
Odette's older brother and future head of the Veaureaux family. He is head-strong and has all the characteristics to be a marvelous leader, however, he lacks open-mindedness and treats things as they are seen, which she sees as a great fault. He is confident, at times even arrogant about his position, but he was always protective of his baby sister and the two grew up together to bond very closely despite their different ideals. After the disappearance of Odette, he was the most worried and would search for her frantically no matter what.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Zeauraut Traideux (29)
Her fiancee and betrothed whom she never had even met or seen. She had no desire to meet the man and instead she left Ishgard as their first meeting was to be at the altar during their marriage ceremony. Even if he might have been a good man, she did not want to take the risk. She did meet the man indirectly after she let Ishgard but getting to know his nature, she knew she made the right decision to leave. Prideful, arrogant and stuck-up, all qualities she despised.

'''Love Interests'''
:<font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> [[Ferroux Quilmont]] (26)
A chance meeting at the Quicksand and this young but endearing fellow Ishgardian made a lasting impression on her. Workaholic and neglectful of himself, she did try to somehow ease it up on him but he seemed to be overworking himself to cover up his loneliness. When she expressed the desire to help him, he said that all he wanted was friends. It made her quite happy and she immediately offered her friendship to the man. While the two would have many odd and awkward moments, it was clear they got along perfectly. Despite only ever meeting twice, on the second encounter, he asked her out. Ever since, the two became inseparable to the point of him asking for her to move in with him back in Ishgard, and shortly after for her hand in marriage, to which she agreed.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Valentin Vulaire]] (35)
Needing to return to Ishgard for private matters, she met the man at the Forgotten Knight together with some other familiar faces. The two separated from the group to talk in private and agreed to return to Thanalan the following day together. Odette quickly learned that she had to remain on her toes as the man was clearly trying to get on her nerves every chance he got. However when not being an arrogant pig, he was quite tender and kind to her, and this quality did warm her heart to him. While she may be feeling infatuation towards him, she is aware that he is not the right person for her. She tries to keep their interactions innocent, not wanting to convince herself that more can be of such a relation.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Varriz Relanah]] (??)
Visiting Ul'dah for some down-time, she ran into this Moonkeeper at the restaurant area at the airship landing. A chance meeting but the two seemed to get along quite well despite his teasing and constant compliments which would get her rather embarrassed. He expressed great interest in showing her around Thanalan once he learned that she was a foreigner and she gladly took him up on the offer. His silver tongue and outgoing personality definitely piqued her interest. He would often try to flirt his way into her heart and it would often leave her flustered although flattered, however, unable to respond and reciprocate despite liking the man.

'''Friends'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] (44)
Fellow Highborn Ishgardian she met while attending a meet-up at The Sharlayan Institutional Team of Gridania. After a most pleasant talk, she soon got to join his company as a nurse and healer to the wounded at his behest; unable to turn down a fellow Ishgardian. While finding the man absolutely dashing and the walking epitome of a Highborn gentleman, it also worked against her feelings for the man as she refused to get herself involved with another noble. She remained at his side through thick and thin, truly grateful for his help and seeing him almost as an older brother figure which she missed.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[K'alayah Xiaan]] (??)
The main leader of Aurora Eorzea. K'alayah was always very caring and giving towards the Elezen, including making sure she was safe from her past during her stay at the residence. Odette was always confused by the Sunkeeper woman, as this one always expressed great interest in her, which ventured beyond mere friendship. Perplexed with the natures of flirting and even intimacy, Odette always struggled to keep up with her pace. The two women bonded very closely regardless. Over time however, the advances started to sour the entire atmosphere and Odette left, although still treasuring her friendship with the woman.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Malrinn Nures]] (24)
Odette met this Au Ra at the Sharlayan Institute in the Lavender Beds and the two ladies did get along but it wasn't until two days later where they really got to bond at another outing. Despite their differences, they found lots of common ground and their friendship cemented even further as Malrinn discovered that Odette had never drank in her life and the night took a horrible turn, needing to escort the Elezen back home. While the night ended on a bad note, the chemistry was clear and Odette is very happy to call the woman her friend.

'''Acquaintances'''
:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] (??)
Friendly Moonkeeper fellow who works as a hunter and chef at the Aurora Eorzea. She met him upon her first visit to the establishment and while they haven't spoken much, he always seemed to be very polite and understanding. Eager to learn about all the different races, she would at times ask him about Miqo'te's and he was always glad to offer assistance and explanations. The two grew closer as he even told her of his past and she did appreciate it.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Reyza Blackwater]] (??)
Meeting her at a small outing to the Mists at a restaurant, Odette was truly impressed by this Miqo'te, especially her eloquent and beautiful speech pattern. It quickly became apparent that the feeling was mutual and the two women got to talk quite a lot that night, genuinely enjoying each other's company as they both clearly stuck out from the crowds.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Kaida Higashikaze]] (??)
Foreigner much like herself but from the East, most likely a samurai. While he was very distant and quiet at first, he quickly warmed up to her presence ant the two enjoyed a very lively talk which at some point became a bit too personal for Odette and the man quickly apologized to her. Despite this, she still enjoys his company and is looking forward to meeting more often.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Cesar Boulon]] (??)
A rude Ishgardian researcher and Aether professor whom she ran into at the Atheneum Arcaneum. Definitely not kind or even caring, his demeanor cold and calculating but he did assist her and her family by trying to find a cure for her sick father. Odette appreciated his help even if his methods were cold. Despite being polar opposites, she did find herself respecting the man and would even help him with his research when needed.

'''Enemies'''
:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> NONE

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''History'''</div>===

<center>'''Please note that all information below is common knowledge that Odette may share depending on her relationship with people; however there are still many secrets behind many decisions and those must be learned IC'''</center>

'''The Hole See of Ishgard''' (0-22)

<spoiler>
Odette was born to a Highborn family in Ishgard, the youngest child of two, the older being her brother Clauvort.
She was doted on generously by her parents and especially her brother as the siblings became inseparable. Her early childhood was a free spirited one as she was quite the tomboy, always getting into brawls with other children and wanting to be the focus of her parents, yearning for their affections despite their busy schedules with family matters.

As she grew, family affairs became more apparent as well as her heritage. She got home-schooled and would almost never leave the family residence, much too busy with her studies as well as prohibited. Her merry nature toned down over the years as she was groomed to be the perfect noblewoman. She blossomed into a beautiful woman, a feast for the eyes for any man and woman alike; at all parties all eyes being on her despite wanting to merely blend in. With her social status, her smarts and her looks, she remained modest and easily approachable.
Despite all the years of grooming, she still cherished the little adventuress in her heart, always yearning for more that her family could ever offer her. Clauvort was well aware of her hidden desires and at times he would even let her indulge as he would take her to the woods with him on his hunting trips with his friends.

Their parents didn't take too kindly to their escapades and paid a closer eye to Odette, and decided to put her Atheneum Arcaneum, wanting to offer her some way entertainment while making certain that she retained her dignity and image. It did work for a short while as she learned of Astronomy and she quickly excelled in the arts, able to read the constellations with ease as well as utilize their magicks. Apart from her usual social studies, languages, etiquette and diplomacy, she was also taught to play the piano, harpsichord and the harp; particularly excelling in the latter. Her schedule was kept busy and full, with the intention to not give her ideas nor reasons to rebel while at the same time shaping her into the perfect woman; one that would bring pride and honour to the family.
</spoiler>

'''Cost of Freedom''' (22-24)

<spoiler>
Reaching the age of twenty-two, and of the perfect age, Odette learned from her parents that they had given her hand in marriage to a fellow nobleman of the name Zeauraut Traideux. The news hit her hard and she never recovered from it, dreading the day where the union would take place to a total stranger. Clauvort told her that Zeauraut was a dear friend of his and even vouched for the man, but she would have none of it, crying and yearning for her freedom after so many years of being trapped in a silver cage.
[[File:odetteinishgard.png|500px|right|]]
Adding to her arranged marriage, many other things came to light which didn't sit well with her. The strictness of the nobility, the political games, the silly banquets and word plays at them, plotting, marrying only in between the higher-ups... She had enough of it all. Day in and day out she fell into a deeper depression, neglecting herself and Clauvort decided to act, unable to see his baby sister in such a state. He convinced their parents to let her venture freely around Ishgard as long as in his presence and they allowed it, thus, he would take her out almost on a daily basis. It did help as she got to indulge a bit in her brief freedom, as well as being away from the family residence. It was during their walks together that she was made aware visually of the poor state in which Ishgard was. The Brume in particular hurt her greatly. She was never aware that the social segregation was this evident and it made her feel guilty, as she had no right to complain about her life as she had anything she ever wanted, apart from freedom. She would try to convince herself that it was all in her head, she had no reason to complain, and yet she couldn't help herself. As the day of the planned union loomed closer, her mood swings became worse and worse and she would start considering ways to break it off and stop it. All ideas were absurd if not even dangerous both to herself and her family and she would spend all her free time plotting some way to free herself.

During one of her walks with Clauvort, they ran into a rarely seen group of adventurers from Ul'dah. Slightly shorter statures, darker skin as well as a different language, they instantaneously intrigued Odette and she immediately approached them with Clauvort following suite. The entire group engaged in conversation and they even went to The Forgotten Knight to talk about Eorzea and all the details of the realm which were alien to her. Even her brother enjoyed the talks and as he was distracted by a server woman at the inn, Odette then spoke to the adventurer's in a different tone, begging them to help her. It shocked them at first for her to be so desperate as to trust complete strangers but they understood that she was desperate and they all agreed to assist her. When Clauvort returned to them, the simple talk resumed.

The same night, Odette prepared herself for her escape as she had agreed with the men from Ul'dah. As agreed, one of them came to see her under her window and she threw herself out of it to be caught by him. They then made a run for it and rejoined the rest of the party. She had left no note or indication at all of her whereabouts to her family, leaving them to believe what they willed. The men quickly dressed her like an Ul'dahn to conceal her real identity and they bound her ears back with a sash to make her look like a Hyur. They fetched their chocobos and Odette sat behind one of the men on his as they approached the gates of the Steps of Faith, and the guards let them leave without without questions asked. She was relieved more and more as slowly Ishgard became but a dot in the distance. She was saddened by her immediate departure, particularly feeling it for her brother but she wouldn't risk telling him of her plans as she knew he would've tried to stop her.

Her saviours took her with them to Ul'dah where they assisted her briefly before leaving to continue their journey.
For the first time, she was left alone to deal with things herself, without anyone's help. While it was liberating, fear set in as she was made aware of just how little she knew of the world and how it worked. She stood out immensely in Ul'dah and it was not attention she wanted, terrified that sooner or later she would be found out and her family would come seeking her out. With money to spare, she checked herself in at the local inn where she remained for a few days before venturing out anew.
</spoiler>

'''A Place to Call Home''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:Auroraeorzea.png|500px|left|]]
On one of her walks, she ventured into the Goblet and came across an establishment named Aurora Eorzea, intrigued, she went inside.
There she met [[K'alayah Xiaan]], a Sunkeeper Miqo'te as well as [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]], a Moonkeeper. She had never seen Miqo'tes' from up close and it caught her attention as she would study them from a distance. The two approached her and exchange a few words, explaining that the house belonged to the Sunkeeper as she ran a mercenary service there as well as a restaurant in the lower levels. Odette had never met mercenaries in her life and it was a completely new experience to her. The Miqo'tes' were curious of her whereabouts but she didn't want to say too much and she simply explained that she had left Ishgard. Once the Moonkeeper left, [[K'alayah Xiaan]] was quick to expose the woman, taking notice of her mannerism as well as her manner of speech and her attire. With no reason to hide, Odette confessed to the woman that she had abandoned her past in search of freedom but that she was terrified that her family was searching for her. While her family did not know she had ran away, the possibility of being kidnapped was highly probable.
The Sunkeeper reassured her stating that she was safe within Aurora Eorzea and she allowed her to stay as long as she needed. Odette was truly grateful and she would exchange a few more words with the woman, although clearly sensing that there was more that met the eye. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] appeared particularly interested in the Elezen, often making hints at her beauty as well as engaging in small flirts, which always had Odette blushing and becoming flustered, completely not used to such attention while the Miqo'te found it endearing.

Staying at the establishment, Odette felt much more at ease, especially as she made friends with many of its members which substituted her family for her in a certain way. During one of her rests, she met a new member of the place named [[Nene Kotake]] who was an Au Ra. Odette had never met Au Ra and she would also study the woman closely with genuine interest. She was soft-spoken and said very little, speaking in a third-person view, but she didn't seem to mind. While talking, [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] made and appearance together with [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. Odette admitted to them that she had been doing her utmost to educate herself on Eorzea, including the cultures, races, history and even foods. She then noted that the Moonkeeper's name meant that he was a second born. It surprised him to see someone even make that remark and he opened up a bit about his past, admitting that he had lost his older brother very early on. Odette immediately apologized, not wanting to bring back painful memories at the time but he luckily did not seem to mind.
[[File:Tiamosandodetteexploring.png|500px|right|]]
Next morning, she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and the two talked more about romance and their ideas of partnerships, much to Odette's embarrassment. It was then that Odette learned that the Sunkeeper was a poly-amorous person, a thing which she had never even heard of back in Ishgard. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] expressed explicit interest in the Elezen but Odette definitely was not interested in romance at the time, especially with another woman who was so open about sexual relations. It was much too knew and the memories of having escaped an arranged marriage were too fresh. It was then that some adventurer walked in and Odette, wanting to be a good host, followed the man to greet him downstairs at the restaurant area. His name was [[Tiamos Loren]] and he shocked her great as he spoke Old Elezen to her. It made her very happy but at the same time suspicious. The two engaged in casual conversation but he remained secretive of his own whereabouts, and as did she about her past. However, they did enjoy each others' company and he offered to show her a bit of Thanalan. They walked all the way to the Silver Bazaar where Odette confronted him, demanding to know why he spoke Old Elezen and why he seemed to know so much about Ishgard, suspicious and believing him to be some spy sent to find her by her family. He easily diffused the tensions, reassuring her that he had no knowledge of her or her family, stating that he had no interest in oppressing anyone's will. She was quick to apologize, ashamed of her quick assumptions but he cheered her up, not wanting her to feel bad about it. The two of them talked some more as they observed the sea, something she had never seen in her life back in Ishgard, making her more and more aware of how little she actually knew.

Dawn came anew and Odette ran into [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and he offered to tell her some more about Moonkeepers to help her with her desire to learn more of all the details required to live in Eorzea. The talk quickly shifted into more sensitive waters as talks of his brother reemerged. She was quick to comfort the man, not wanting him to force himself but he did not mind, appreciating her tender words. It was then that another person joined in, that being a Viera named [[Vildola Fyth]]. She had never met or even seen a Viera, but had read a bit about them. The two quickly established lots of common ground, both being foreigners in a new land and needed to adjust. It made Odette very happy to have a friend, one whom understood her perfectly. The Viera also appeared quite content as the two women bonded closely. Odette showed her the library, and there [[Vildola Fyth]] spotted the piano and sat at it, intrigued by the musical instrument as she confessed to always having wanted to learn how to play. Odette was happy to hear that as it was the perfect exchange, she told her that she'd teach her to play the piano in exchange for some basic botany skills. The Viera agreed. Coming back from a walk in the Goblet, she ran into an unknown man back at the establishment, but she remained cordial and soon learned he was [[Taahir Al-Nazar]]. He told her that he was in charge of the navy force belonging to the guild which really impressed her, while at the same time being a merchant from the Thanalan desert. She however refused to open up about her detailed reasons for being part of the guild herself but she did enjoy the casual conversation. He then mentioned of some hot-baths right next door and proposed that they go there to relax and she agreed, quite curious to see them as she had never been to such a place. The hot waters were truly warming and soothing and she enjoyed them greatly, especially with such marvelous company. The two continued talking and it was quickly made apparent that he seemed to like her and he asked her out to dinner. As they finished to bathe, they headed back to Aurora Eorzea for their dinner date, heading downstairs to the restaurant area. While eating and bonding some more, he suggested that she could assist the guild with her healing, assisting perhaps with the sick or injured. It immediately caught her interest and she agreed, only after consulting it with [[K'alayah Xiaan]] beforehand.

Word came from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] that the company was required to assist her in retrieving some artifact. While odd, Odette did join, together with [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and [[Amberlenne Furieaux]]. From outside of the company, [[Tiamos Loren]] and [[Sini'to Shadar]] joined in to assist on the quest. They ventured out into the Thanalan desert and were quickly transported to some sort of castle gates while getting split from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] as she got sucked into some hole and then [[Tiamos Loren]] who was trying to save her. Four of them left, they ventured into the residence and were quickly exposed to some odd childish voice who appeared to be testing them as they were put through a huge ordeal. They found rooms iterated with worms, which disgusted Odette greatly and had her sick to her stomach for the entire time. Some spirits in the courtyard were trying to sell their wares, which consisted of worms, and she avoided them at all cost. There were five immense towers visible from the courtyard and they went into each one, discovering many secrets of the place, among them weird weapons which seemed to suck out the aether out of anyone who held them and more worms. In four towers they found magical objects which disappeared upon touching and then the gates to the fifth tower opened. At some point they found the missing due and they all ventured into the fifth tower where they found some book which [[K'alayah Xiaan]] has been hunting for as well as the origin of the childish voice, a young Miqo'te boy. He seemed amused and wanted to play more with them but the party took the book and departed, noticing that they couldn't even land one hit on the lad. Immediately after the entire ordeal, [[Tiamos Loren]] and Odette got talking by the waters of Forgotten Springs. The conversation at first was about the event and what they went through but during the talk, Odette picked up on a few lines and hints from him, gently suggesting that he wasn't from Eorzea, if even the realm. She quickly blew his cover and seeing no other way, and at the same time not deeming has as a threat or having malicious intent, he confessed to her his origins. He was from a completely different world, one where wyrms were even looked up to and treated as wise creatures, and people followed their words. This surprised Odette and she then explained to him the views on dragons on Eorzea and they were the completely opposite. Hearing the story of this world, he decided to take it upon himself to form a company named The Azure Blades to assist those in need. it surprised her and she questioned him for the reason, as it made no sense for a foreigner to assist them; but he remained adamant. It was quite nice to hear and she gladly offered her help in the matter.

The next day she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and she asked her permission about establishing and infirmary in the guild, to which the Miqo'te agreed gladly. The talk turned a bit darker as they consulted on matters from days prior in the desert, Odette still shaking off the unpleasant feeling. During this talk, the woman confessed about her own corruption within as she revealed her eye being the source; explaining that she was seeking a cure and that the book they had recovered had high chances to help her.
[[File:Sharlayanlibrary.png|500px|left|]]
Days went by and Odette had inspected all the books in the Aurora Eorzea regarding the realm. Boredom set in as well as the nervousness as she did not feel yet very confident in her new home and that was when she heard of a meet-up at the Sharlayan Institute in Gridania. Curious, she decided to pay it a visit, hoping that she might find more resources to educate herself on Eorzea and it's culture. Her friends helped her in teleporting there, leaving her to enjoy the evening on her own as she found the place in the Lavender Beds. She immediately got greeted by a rather obnoxious setting as some mad chocobo was set loose downstairs and was causing havoc. Doing her best to just avoid the ruckus, she settled herself by the bar where she engaged in conversation with an Au Ra and a fellow Ishgardian man. She was truly happy to meet one of her own, although his sharp tongue and witty replies left her rather astounded and speechless most of the time. It was intimidating on many levels and a bit unpleasant to her ears so she shifted away. [[Tiamos Loren]] then appeared and she greeted him warmly. He expressed interest in books regarding Aether manifestation and they both went downstairs to the library to begin their search but were cut off by [[Tiny Blue]]. While odd, the Lalafell was truly endearing and the three of them engaged in conversation, only interrupted as another Elezen made his appearance, apologizing for his intrusion. The group immediately dispersed a bit around the library to not block the way to the man, Odette meanwhile analyzing his appearance as it was rather clear to see that he appeared to be Ishgardian. She greeten him in Old Elezen and it immediately got his interest, also identifying her as kin and the two engaged in talk. He introduced himself as [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], called Corvo by friends. She at first struggle to even use his nickname, but she did her utmost to correct herself despite her slip ups. [[Tiamos Loren]] was quick to assist the man in finding a book regarding astral plains and also regarding the beast tribes located in the Shroud, while Odette kept herself buy by researching books about Eorzea overall. She located one on Eorzean holidays and she went away a bit to have a peaceful read which got interrupted by [[Tiny Blue]] as he jumped onto her desk. A tad annoyed and sated with the book, she returned the book to it's original place when the Elezen man came back downstairs and offered his assistance to her, stating that he had been in Eorzea for over two years. She was elated and truly grateful and he did assist her with all her questions. He then posed her a question, asking if she fancied a walk outside under the stars and she gladly took the man's offer, the two leaving the library to talk more peacefully outside.

As they walked, she felt someone staring at the back of her head and then spotted [[Tiamos Loren]] who appeared to be following them. The Elezen confronted him, inquiring as to the reason for following or if he misunderstood his relationship with Odette, to which she blushed, immediately stating that they weren't a couple. She reassured the Huyr that they were only going for a walk and after much debate he conceded and left them and [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] then invited him together with Odette to some time come by his company for a drink. As the Hyur left them, the two Elezen continued their walk in the Lavender Beds, enjoying the night breeze and sky as the stars shone upon them. They reach an lavender field near the waters and the man then turned to her, offering his hand, asking if she perhaps wished to retreat somewhere more private. She did not mind either way, enjoying the company quite a lot, especially as he was very helpful and truly a gentleman which was a nice change from what she saw lately from the opposite gender. For a moment she felt herself loosing grip on reality as he talked but she snapped back as he called her and they continued their walk; genuinely enjoying her time spent with the man as they talked through the night.
[[File:mistouting.png|500px|right|]]
Enjoying her last outing to the library, Odette wanted to mingle some more, seeing it also as a good way to learn the customs and cultures on Eorzea. And so, she ventured to the Mists where there was a dinning event at a restaurant there, including some side entertainment. She found the place without any complications and once inside, she ran into an old face, [[Malrinn Nures]], a lady she had met two days prior at the Sharlayan Institute. The woman appeared quite happy to see her and she sat opposite her. Odette met her talking companion, a Miqo'te lady named [[Reyza Blackwater]] who had one of the most eloquent and beautiful voices and phrasing she had ever heard. The feeling seemed to be mutual as the Miqo'te also expressed curiosity about Odette's whereabouts as it was clear from a glance that she stood out from the crowd in both looks and mannerisms and Odette explained that she hailed from the Holy See of Ishgard, which definitely got the Miqo'te's interest. They talked a little bit about Ishgard and then the talk shifted to more casual matters. On stage, suddenly, a marriage was announced and everyone applauded and congratulated the couple which was to be wed; Odette day dreaming a bit, voicing that she found it romantic to be married. [[Malrinn Nures]] was quick to counter that, clearly being rather negative and she explained that she had broken off with her partner the same day. Odette immediately felt guilty and sat beside her, giving her a side hug, wanting to cheer her up at least a bit. The evening went by casually, and Odette met another Miqo'te by the name of [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. While they did not talk much at all, the moment he mentioned [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] he got her attention and he asked her if she knew him, to which she nodded. He expressed immediate concern over this acquaintance, but she appeared adamant about her trust in the fellow Ishgardian, going as far as stating that she found him dashing and a true gentleman. It relieved the man luckily and the topic was dropped. One of the entertainer's at the establishment started seeking volunteers to go on stage but everyone rejected. [[Malrinn Nures]] joked that she could make a drinking competition, to which Odette commented that she had never drunk in her life. The Au Ra immediately ordered a bottle of red. A prayer was offered to Halone in preparation as the bottle was uncorked. The first few sips were agonizing, finding the flavour rather revolting and much too overpowering but as she kept going, it dulled her senses, taste buds included and she started to drink which amazing speed. The Au Ra had a most jolly time watching the Elezen down almost an entire bottle on her own in one go. Odette, unused to the effects, struggled to discern her surroundings but still did her best to remain a lady, deeming it best to return home. Getting up, the room started to spin and she struggled to make her way upstairs. [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] both assisted her, asking where she leaved. The Goblet was quite far and they did not want to risk teleportation with someone in her state, and so they decided to leave her in Lominsa at the Drowning Wench.
Odette woke up the next day, sick to the stomach and with no will to live, her very first hang over took over her body. She had no idea where she was or what had even happened, her last memory being talking with the girls back at the table in the Mist. After emptying the contents of her stomach multiple times, she did come across a note left by her friend, where she explained what had happened as well as where she was. She was most relieved to find that piece of information although the guilt was immense. She had no desire to drink to a stupor and it did taint her image. She vowed to never drink again.

Still dazed but intent on returning home, Odette teleported back to the Goblet however she mistook wards and ended up in the wrong one. Wandering lost, she came across a house with a familiar name 'Raven's Heart'. It immediately reminded her of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] and as she inspected the property, she found him in the front yard. He seemed shocked to see her there but pleased and the two exchanged a few pleasantries before heading inside. He asked her how come she found the place and she admitted it was pure coincidence. The man proceeded to explain the entire point of the Raven's Heart, what they did and what were their goals, including mentioning that they had ties to Ishgard which did rub her the wrong way a bit, concerned for her safety but she did not voice it. He then gave her some recruitment papers which shocked her but he kindly coerced her into it, requesting her assistance as a fellow Ishgardian and friend. Odette put some thought into the matter and she was definitely happy to find a purpose as it would help her in integrating with people in Eorzea as well as perhaps make a difference. She signed the papers but under the condition that her family name be left out if she were ever to be mentioned to any Ishgardians. He did not seem to mind and the deal was sealed. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] gave her a tour of the place and she then ran into [[Vildola Fyth]] who was looking for her. The man learned that the Viera was also an outsider and a fellow healer and so he also accepted her as Odette's help as they quickly decided that Odette would assist in the infirmary. Once he left, the two ladies got talking, expressing their shared concerned over Aurora Eorzea and the two agreed that it was not the place for them.

Odette returned to Aurora Eorzea and wrote them a letter, mostly addressed to [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. She thanked her and everyone else at the house for their kindness, but also expressing that she felt the need to move elsewhere, finding herself an ill fit in their current company. While in reality it was true, most of all she simply wanted to draw a clear line and stop the sexual advancements. She left them a box of Ishgardian bonbons and left, explaining that she was to leave together with [[Vildola Fyth]] but that they would remain in touch.
[[File:ravensheartoutside.png|500px|left|]]
She returned to Raven's Heart with the Viera, looking forward to making herself useful so she went to the infirmary to inspect their stock and possibly add more to it. As her friend left, Odette also went out to stock up on a few medical supplies. Upon her return, she met many new faces, among them [[Arthain Garon]]. He convinced her to go introduce herself to the others and so she did, meeting a few other members of the place, among them she met [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. He did mention her drunkenness from the other day and she glared for once, quickly retreating back outside; far too ashamed of the event to want it mentioned. Outside she ran into [[Arthain Garon]] and the two got to know each other very well, finding they had a long in common. He seemed quite happy to see her not being scared of him, although the reason was unknown to her for such an assumption. She gladly observed him practicing his magicks when they got interrupted by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. The Elezen greeted them and while talking mentioned the Au Ra's brother, which made the man storm off back inside. Odette was absolutely confused but the Elezen reassured her it was nothing she said. The two exchanged a few warm words before he took his leave and she rejoined the others inside. There, she ran again into the Au Ra man who apparently had broken his finger. Together with [[Edgar Wyndham]], a man she had also met back at the Sharlayan Library, they made their way with him to the infirmary to assist him. They all then proceeded to explore the house as it appeared some rooms were brand new. It was then that [[Edgar Wyndham]] suddenly proposed a history lesson to them out of nowhere but the Au Ra declined, retreating for the night, thus Odette gladly took it upon herself to listen. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] joined on the lesson about Thanalan history but Odette did not last long, feeling much too exhausted and so she retreated for the night.

The next morning, while browsing the library for books on Thanalan history, wanting to better herself especially after the lesson from the day before. As she found a book, two people also were residing in the library at the time; a man named [[Kaida Higashikaze]] and a petite Au Ra lady named [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. The woman seemed to walk on pins and needles, seeming nervous all the time. Odette exchanged a few kind words with her although the man remained relatively silent until the Au Ra left them and Odette tried her best to engage in conversation with him. It took some time and patience to get the man talking but once he did, the conversation was one of the best she had ever had. He expressed interest in her wanting to learn more as well as her culture, them comparing each others' heights among other things and engaging in friendly banter. The talk took a turn as he asked her of her opinion of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. She explained that she found him to be a good man, the true ideal of an Ishgardian nobleman. [[Kaida Higashikaze]] then asked if he had tried to bed her. Odette's mind exploded at the insinuation, immediately countering that and explaining her reasons for being in Eorzea, which defended the Highborn man. He appeared understanding, but he did tease her a bit more, amused by her blush and flustered nature. It took her some time to settle down but he was definitely respectful, but at the same time he remained playful and flirtatious even. He would ask her of what she wanted in life as she seemed to be a pure bookworm, asking her even of romance as she admitted to reading leisure romances. She admitted to having a great interest in such books but that in real life she had not the chance. In revenge, she asked him the same. He did not mind her question nor her curiosity and he explained that he was not taught in romance nor courtship and that it all seemed daunting to him. Odette comforted him and they would even start to joke around, wondering who would be first to find the right person for them.
[[File:VarrizandOdette.png|500px|right|]]
Wanting some time for herself and away from books for once, Odette ventured to Ul'dah where she decided to go to the airship landing as it was a peaceful area when compared to the bustling streets of the city. There, she met a certain Moonkeeper named [[Varriz Relanah]] who was the first to engaged in conversation with her. It took her by surprise but she wasn't one to turn down a nice talk, especially if it worked in her favour to adapt and mingle with people. The two sat down at a table and continued to talk into late hours of the night, not even noticing the time pass. He quickly figured out her origins, if not even only due to her looks but so did her accent and her tales give her away. She quite enjoyed the talk, learning that he was a travelling merchant and he was there to greet freshly arrived people in Ul'dah, while at the same time trying to sell them his wares. While shrewd, she did not see it as a fault but more a smart way to benefit. It relieved him to know that she did not think any lesser of him. Despite the pleasant exchange, she did not fully open up about her past as he was still a stranger and she could not trust anyone, and so she did not reveal her family name. In between the discussions, he would throw in compliments as well as more spicy topics which each time sent her head for a spin, going silent and unable to respond until she calmed down. No matter how often it happened with him or in the past, it was something she would still struggle with as it always got her embarrassed. She told him of her issues on the more intimate topics, explaining her past occurrences with [[K'alayah Xiann]] and it left him rather shocked, perhaps then understanding why she seemed to have her guard up at times. They talked of what her desires might have been and she openly stated that she had none, apart from her freedom which she had already attained but now that she had it, she had no idea what to do with it. It was then that he offered to help her use that newly found freedom, suggesting to show her around Ul'dah as well as Thanalan. She was truly content to receive such an offer and she immediately agreed and the two exchanged linkshell frequencies to remain in touch. As the hour got late, Odette decided it was best to return home to the Goblet, fearing that [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] might get worried as she wasn't one to remain away for long. She excused herself and bid the man farewell and the two parted ways.
</spoiler>

'''Facing the Past''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:tiamosandodetterh.png|500px|right|]]
Days went by and Odette ever so slowly would adapt to her new life in Thanalan, still struggling but otherwise making progress. With the gil she brought with herself from Ishgard, she put it forth to purchase an apartment in the Goblet, mind set to make her home in Eorzea. She would move between her new home and the new company, finding a comfortable routine in the coming days and it did bring a sense of much needed relief to find stability. On one of her ventures to Ul'dah, she ran into [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Quicksand and they quickly caught up with one another. He appeared to be busy as ever, and it was somehow nice to hear that he was never changing. He then asked her in turn, and her face said it all. While content, she admitted that she had word that her father was ill and that it did not seem to be some mere cold. She explained that she was planning to head to Ishgard to see what she could learn of his state while still keeping her cover. He offered lots of advice and she truly appreciated it, even wanting to go there to research her acquired information but that she declined, stating that she wanted to go herself and see it with her own eyes. He did not pressurize, but remained concerned for her safety. Changing topic, she told him that she joined Sir [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] company which surprised him although hearing her opinion of the man, he felt a bit guilty for judging him as quickly as he had. He expressed on seeing this place as he did get an open invitation from the man and Odette immediately offered to take him there, adding that she also had recently purchased an apartment in the area if he also wanted to see it. The two of them made their way to the Goblet, Odette proud to actually have memorized the way despite being an outsider. She showed him the company house from the inside and he expressed concerned over the relics which lay around, completely unguarded. She agreed and was fine with delivering the concern to [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but [[Tiamos Loren]] said he would do it, as the concern was his to begin with. She showed him the downstairs area, explaining the origin of the books and he found the collection quite impressive. Odette then proposed to him that they move to her apartment as it was also in the area, and so they did, reaching the apartment building within a few moments. The building seemed almost abandoned as very few tenants lived in it, but it did not bother her one bit, quite enjoying the quiet. It also was a good point as it meant she could play her piano without annoying her neighbors. Once inside, they engaged in more friendly talks, finding more and more in common even among the little things. [[Tiamos Loren]] would at times try to pat her back but each time she stiffened up and he immediately apologized for the lack of personal space but she quickly explained herself, simply saying that she wasn't used to any intimate touches other than from family members. It did calm him down. She then mentioned his offered help regarding Ishgard, asking him if he would mind to assist her and he gladly took up the request. After a few more hours of casual talks, the two split ways as he decided to venture to Ishgard as soon as possible while she would join him up a day later on.

The coming day, Odette made her way towards Ishgard via chocobo. She was in no hurry and she did enjoy the trip itself to get there. Once before the Steps of Faith, she had to think up a way to enter the city, aware that she hadn’t really put much thought into it. She could see the guards stopping and questioning visitors, regardless of rank or race and it got her worried. Getting off her chocobo and with reigns in her hand, she made her way towards the guards calmly and once right in front of them, she gave the chocobo a hard smack to its rear, causing it to go into a frenzy as it rushed into the guards, distracting them instantly. Among the ruckus, she ran inside the city, slipping past the guards and any other suspicious eyes.
Once inside the city, she spent a good few hours walking the streets, indulging in the nostalgia and the memories of her old home. While she did not support her family, she did love Ishgard and if it were not for her family, she would have stayed. Not wanting to arouse suspicions, she avoid interacting with people, wanting to hear any news about her family anonymously, ideally as a passerby. Unfortunately, it did not help at all. The only news she heard was that her father was stepping down as head of the household, giving the leadership to her brother Clauvort. Disheartened, she continued walking the streets in hopes of getting a better lead and that was when she found [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Jewelled Crozier. He was shocked to see her there and clearly he was not approving of her presence but she stood her ground and the two moved to a more secluded place to speak at ease without prying eyes. He asked her if she found out anything and she did share the little bit she learned. It confirmed what he also managed to find out but it got them nowhere. The brainstorming started as the man wanted to somehow meet her brother to ask him about the state of the family, ideally by luring him out. Odette had no idea how to achieve this as his hunting trips were common but irregular and they were back to square one. She even started to debate showing herself to her family but [[Tiamos Loren]] adamantly prohibited her. While ashamed of her idea, she did come up with a better one, informing him that her brother’s best friend went every day to Saint Reymanaud's Cathedral and that for certain he would know everything. He agreed and the two of them made their way to the Cathedral. Once inside, Odette described the man to her friend as best as she could, stating that she had no idea of his looks but she knew his family’s emblem as well as his name. Luck on their side, at one of the benches, there was a man seated with said emblem on his cape. [[Tiamos Loren]] told Odette to stay out of sight while he did the talking although she seemed willing to immediately back out of the plan. He snapped at her, criticizing her for having no back bone, telling her to stand her ground and to go through with it. While harsh, it worked and she hid behind the pillars of the cathedral, eavesdropping from a safe distance even if the man had no idea how she looked like. Once the sermon ended, [[Tiamos Loren]] approached the man, requesting to speak to Zeauraut Traideux. The man clearly had no love for outsiders but he granted him the audience once they stepped outside the cathedral. The Highborn immediately introduced himself as Zeauraut Traideux, heir to the Traideux House. The Midlander introduced himself as well and the two engaged in conversation. Zeauraut was a sharp man and he did not buy anything the man was telling him until he spoke of the Dragonsong War. He lied saying that he was a good friend of House Veaureaux but that ever since the war, the house cut all ties with him and he desires to know what is happening with it. Zeauraut, while not fully convinced, he did tell him that the entire house has been in chaos after the disappearance of Mademoiselle Odette. [[Tiamos Loren]] knew the overall picture of her departure but he never knew the details and it caught him off guard. The Highborn explained to him that simply one night she woman disappeared into thin air, the family suspecting that she was kidnapped for some ransom but no one ever came forth demanding money. They did send scouts to try and locate her but they found nothing, slowly beginning to suspect that she had been killed. The Midlander was not aware of the details and it got him asking for the reason for this disappearance, aware that she was to wed a man before she was gone. Zeauraut’s eyes grew severe at those words as he stated that he was the man she was to marry. [[Tiamos Loren]] had no idea that the man he was speaking to was Odette’s fiancée, however, speaking to him and learning how he was, he could not fault her for leaving. Zeauraut added that now the Lord of the house, Asoix, is passing the leadership to his son, Clauvort due to health issues and the Midlander immediately offered his help in healing the man but the Elezen refused, voicing that the family did not wish to be involved with any outsiders and that most likely it was why he was cast away to begin with. [[Tiamos Loren]] agreed, backing down and the two man parted ways after a few more words, among them the Highborn telling him that his reputation in the family’s eyes could be restored if he were to know anything about Odette. Once the Highborn was away from earshot, Odette came out of hiding, moving towards her friend telling him that most likely this explained to him why she no longer resided in Ishgard.
[[File:Fireplacetogether.png|500px|left|]]
He definitely understood her perfectly, drained by that conversation with the arrogant noble. Odette, finally after months, she felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders as her eyes became glossy from joy, needing a moment to calm herself as she closed her eyes. He took her hand into his, content to see her relieved and for once she did not flinch at the touch. Quite on the contrary, she returned it by giving his hand a squeeze. Happy to see her in such state, he said they should return home but she stopped him, asking for just one more day in Ishgard as she was still homesick and she wanted to enjoy it some more, adding that she had a craving for Ishgardian tea. He laughed but agreed and the two of them went to the Forgotten Knight. As they awaited their tea, Odette would warm up her frozen hands by the fireplace, joking that she had gotten spoiled by Thanalan weather. [[Tiamos Loren]] joined her by the fire and they got talking on a deeper level. She expressed her undying gratitude to him, calling him her guardian angel as he was always there for her no matter what and he never wanted anything in exchange. He explained that he always sought to do good no matter what, which is what he did all the time until he changed places, clearly suggesting that he wasn’t going to stay in Eorzea. It saddened her and she admitted that she did not wish to see him gone to which he replied that she would be long gone by the time he would leave. It shocked her to hear that as Elezen were one of the longest living races and it made no sense to her but she decided not to ask further. Instead, she pitied him, saying that it had to be hard to live on while loved ones grew old and withered away. He agreed and it was evident it hurt him as the man would begin to shed tears. She was quick to comfort him, hands moving to his shoulders, saying that she did treasure their friendship to matter if it was only a blink for him. He reassured her that she was not a blink to him, saying that she shone just as brightly as the other stars in his sky. It took her aback but she appreciated his words greatly. During this heartfelt conversation, he did say that he would not mind if she wanted to offer him more than just mere friendship. This statement hit her hard as she had never looked at him, or anyone for that matter, in a romantic way and it was a novelty to her. He did not pressure her, saying it was her decision but he was patient and willing to wait. He had always been anything but kind and supportive of her and she truly valued their friendship, but actually perceiving the man as a romantic interest was not easy but she wasn’t opposed to the idea, willing to open her mind and perhaps try a different approach. The two spent the rest of the evening sat by the fire, sat closely together as they both relaxed after the long and eventful day.

The next day, Odette did ask him to return home first as she did not want to arouse suspicions at the gates when leaving the city. She arrived alone and so did he; seeing them together could arouse suspicions. Especially if Zeauraut could be observing him without their knowledge. Although not content with the idea, he agreed and departed the city, leaving Odette alone to enjoy her one day at home. As Odette strolled down the streets of Ishgard alone, she felt nostalgic and perhaps a bit home sick, but she did enjoy the walk, taking in the sights and feeling like a child anew. Wanting to somehow assist her family, she decided to have a look at the Atheneum Arcaneum and check if anyone knew anything more there. Luckily, no one recognized her but many faces were familiar to her, all apart from one. A lone man sat by the table, seemingly sucked in completely by a book he had laying before him. She took advantage of the fact that he was a stranger, aware that he would not recognize her identity. He ignored her completely but it was evident he knew something of the state of her father and she demanded to know. As he kept his answers brief and cold, she lost her nerves and gave away her name to the man, wanting to justify the reason why she wanted and needed to know the current state of her father. The man definitely did not appreciate the interruption and instead, he asked her how much she knew of aether manipulation. The query came as a shock but she confessed that she studied the arcane and so he put her to work with a book, asking her to copy all the lines referring to ice elemental aether. Odette has no words but feeling absolutely defeated she obliged and did as he instructed, transcribing the text. Once done, she gave it back to him and then he finally confessed that he was hired to assist in curing her father and that was what he was working on currently. It opened her eyes greatly and she immediately felt horrible for her reaction from before. She apologized to him and he added that her father was safe, informing her that he was going to get better. Ecstatic, she thanked him and asked for his name and he introduced himself as [[Cesar Boulon]]. Relieved, Odette left the place and her feet brought her before the Forgotten Knight again and while she pondered whether to go in or not, she spotted a familiar and very unexpected face sitting by the fountain, immediately recognizing [[Sini'to Shadar]] after the events at the Sagolii Desert. The two exchanged a few words when man then spoke to them, making fun of Miqo'te behinds. Odette held back a laughter but as the two men continued their discussion, she couldn't hold back no more and burst into merry laughter. After some odd tug-o-war, they all went inside the Forgotten Knight to get away from the cold. Once inside, the Elezen man introduced himself as [[Valentin Vulaire]] and Odette introduced herself, leaving the last name out, and also her Miqo'te friend. [[Sini'to Shadar]] offered to get them all drinks and he soon came back with a large teapot and a few cups. As they all talked, enjoying the warmth compared to the freezing cold outside, another familiar face appeared, [[Maetiwyb Abylwaen]]. Odette greeted her warmly and urged her to join them at the table. She offered her cup to the woman, wanting to be cordial, and went over to the bar area to get herself a new one and there she met [[Simeon Sibaruse]], a fellow Highborn. While not very chatty, she invited him to join their table and he gladly obliged. His attention got quickly snatched by [[Sini'to Shadar]] as the two would engage in deep theology talks about Halone as well as the reasons behind the Miqo'te's decision to become a priest of the Fury. The discussion was rather hard and Odette merely listened, not wanting to intervene as they both appeared rather passionate about their beliefs. Odette went outside, cup in hand, wanting to check the weather. She slipped her gloves and hat back on and upon opening the door, she was still met with snow. She was about to go back inside but then [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to have followed her, so she stayed and they two exchanged a few words. He was quick to annoy her as he slid her hat over her eyes, and she decided to put it away, feeling that he would only do it again. Among the talk, he asked her why she no longer seemed to live in Ishgard, as she was definitely a Highborn; an element which was evident at mere glance. She wasn't about to talk openly about it on the streets of said city, and with a stranger, although he made it quite clear that he had no interest whatsoever of causing her issues. Putting her hat back on, she asked him to follow her and they moved to the walls of the Brume. With no one there, they could talk freely. She didn't go into the details but she did mention that she left her family for private matters, but that she came back because she heard her father was ill. But she was unable to approach the mansion, aware that the guards would recognize her immediately and that would've been a big problem. He seemed to feel for her and even offered assistance but she thanked him, aware that nothing could be done. Despite his kind-nature, he seemed to have some need to annoy people, or perhaps just her. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would get much too close to her, alarm bells going off in her head as he'd toy around with her, his fingers tracing along her chin and being dangerously close but she stood her ground. It got her absolutely flustered and he appeared to enjoy seeing her in such torment. Between the horrible teasing and earning a nickname 'petal' from him, he mentioned that he too was seeking to return to Thanalan so the two of them agreed to return together the following morning.
[[File:Valandodettemeet.png|500px|right|]]
Morning came and as agreed, she met with [[Valentin Vulaire]], the two heading towards the chocobo stables where they got a chocobo to share. They decided to have her take the lead and that they's switch halfway. All the time she could hear some loud metal clanking in his bag and when she asked him, he wouldn't answer, letting her guess but no matter what she said, it did not seem to be it. As they climbed onto the bird and made their way towards The Steps of Faith, Odette's enthusiasm dissipated and she explained to the man, recalling the night prior, that the guards cannot know who she really is. He just pat her shoulder, telling her t leave it to him. Sighing, she had little choice and agreed and they stepped forth. Two guards stopped them, one checking the chocobo while the other asked for their identities as well as their reason for leaving. [[Valentin Vulaire]] was quick to explain, stating that they were a married couple, presenting Odette as Odessa, and then he even recognized the guard, calling him Henry. Odette remained absolutely silent and shocked, not expecting that excuse, but it was a very good one she had to admit. Her 'husband' and Henry talked away, the guard asking him if he just got married to which he nodded, hugging Odette from behind to show the little affections that couples would share. She wanted nothing more than to slap him but she played along, remaining silent. The guard was quick to let them go and once they were at a safe distance, she did question [[Valentin Vulaire]]'s relationship with the guard. He explained that they used to study together but that he deemed the guy an imbecile. During the ride across Coerthas, he would tease her here and there and she somehow managed to survive that as eventually his focus turned elsewhere, to some sort of bronze statue he was carrying with him. As they reached the Shroud, out of nowhere he seemed to get some idea about the statue and in the fervor of the moment, he kissed her cheek, hopping off the chocobo to run to a nearby pond. She was absolutely perplexed and she parked the bird, quickly following him in worry. As she observed, he first dipped the statue into the water as it almost froze around him. He noticed it did no good so he took out a pan from his bag and then placed the statue in it before setting it on fire. Odette just gawked absolutely speechless and confused by the entire scene but she did not interfere. The statue changed appearance into that of Thal, the ruler of the underworld. The Elezen then explained that he was investigation a cult which was interested in summoning primals and that this statue was a thing of theirs. As he would try to pick up the statue, he burned himself a bit so Odette scooted the figurine into the cold watered with her boot, getting it out only once it had cooled down sufficiently. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would pat her head, perhaps thankful, while at the same time scratching at his bear, clearly annoyed by it. She chuckled and handed him a small pair of scissors and a pocket mirror of hers, and more jokes and teasing ensued as he tended to himself, later gluing himself to her and kissing her neck. When asked what he was doing, he simply stated that he was annoying her. He returned the scissors and mirror to her, mounting the chocobo as she would sit behind him, making certain to not fall off wrapping her arms around him. She was quick to doze off, lulled by his humming and the swaying of the bird as it ran across the forest. She came to once they reached Thanalan and she noticed a cut upon his cheek. Using her magicks, she healed the cut, content to be of some sort of help at least once. The teasing resumed regardless and she had to do her best to survive it until they would reach Ul'dah.

Odette learned that [[Arthain Garon]] was meant to duel at the Lynx one evening and she made it a must to go see him fight, even if brawls were not her thing or anything involving violence. Inside the Lynx, she ran into [[Malrinn Nures]] and the two ladies immediately caught up with each other and sat together while the fights went on. The first fight went well although Odette found herself looking away all the time, unable to take the severity and brutality of it which made her friend laugh quite a bit, suggesting that maybe a glass of wine would help. She immediately rejected it, and the Au Ra laughed, saying that it was fine since she too was trying to drink much less lately. As the first round came to a close, the girls went to the bar to get themselves something to drink. Just as her friend had suggested, Odette agreed to have a glass of wine to just loosen up and survive the barbaric fighting. [[Malrinn Nures]] also broke her promise of not drinking to join Odette on the endeavor and they returned to the arena to observe. [[Arthain Garon]]'s turn was up and Odette would lose herself as she drank her glass, cheering enthusiastically and with fervor for her friend. That was when behind her [[Valentin Vulaire]] appeared, stating that she was drunk bluntly. She fought back, not taking such an insult. [[Malrinn Nures]] joined on the talk, recognizing the man from nights prior as he seemed to be wooing some huntress, a statement he did not deny. It somehow soured Odette's mood and she remained distant for the rest of the evening. She tried to focus on the fight but unfortunately [[Arthain Garon]] lost. Regardless, she congratulated him on a job well done and as the final round started, she slipped outside to have a brief respite from the crowded place. Finally outside to enjoy some fresh air, the solitude was short-lived as [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to follow her, although it appeared to be mere coincidence. As they were alone again, she proposed they go for a walk as the night was still young and the weather was lovely. As they walked about the Goblet, she brought him to one of her favourite spots to stargaze although he expressed little interest in the area, but he did state that the stars were almost as beautiful as her. It surprised her each time he would be nice but she did love it. She'd ask him why he would be rude all the time and then have moments of actually being pleasant, but he just toyed with her and never replied to it. She would walk around, pacing, losing her footing as the slight tipsiness tugged at her, mumbling and grumbling under her nose. He bluntly stated that she was drunk and that she needed to sit but she ignored him. He proceeded to just pick her up and he moved to a set of benches, sitting her between his legs. He was a big mystery to her and it was absolutely annoying and yet oddly enticing. As he held her in his arms, he asked her if this was like one of those romance stories where the princess fell for a commoner. She countered that, stating that she was no princess and that neither was he some commoner. He still pressed his observation, asking if she did see this as an infatuation. She did not admit it, but deep down she knew that she did have a crush on the man despite his horrible nature; like a magnet it pulled at her. Remaining a gentleman, he asked her for a kiss and the two embraced. It was her first one. It was bitter-sweet as she couldn't believe to have fallen for such a bad character but it was beyond her. The kiss was short as she forgot to breathe and she broke it, gasping for air. He only laughed and soon the two parted ways as he needed to tend to his tasks. That was when Odette's linkpearl rang and she picked up, recognizing [[Malrinn Nures]]'s voice and the two girls talked, agreeing to meet up at Odette's apartment. Once there, Odette hosted her guest with some tea and biscuits and the Au Ra asked her what had happened since she had disappeared during the duel night. Odette did not admit to being intimate but she did say that she and [[Valentin Vulaire]] had a moment and that she did feel attracted to him. This worried her friend and she warned her that she did not see the man as a trustworthy person, foreseeing that following that path would only lead to heartbreak. Odette agreed, fully aware of this fact and she did want to try to somehow tone down the advances for her own good.
</spoiler>

'''Matters of the Heart''' (24)

<spoiler>
Wanting to relax a bit, Odette went to the Quicksand where she met [[Ferroux Quilmont]], a fellow Ishgardian Highborn. While skeptical at first, his genuine and adorable nature won her over easily and they sat together at a table, soon joined by a Lalafell named [[Pishrero Junerero]]. They learned that he was a businessman and owner of [https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900668170/ June's Crafts & Arms]. Odette introduced herself to both but left out her family name. The Elezen man also introduced himself, adding that he worked for the Garlond Ironworks back in Ishgard, assisting with the rebuilding of the city. The businessman immediately saw an opportunity there and offered to work together with the man, offering to write a letter to his superiors as a business venture. They all went to his company's headquarters in the Goblet where [[Pishrero Junerero]] filled out the paperwork and then handed it to the young lad. After business came pleasure and he gave the two Elezen a tour of the establishment. Their interest biggest at the top floor as it seemed to be an extravagant dinning area. Odette was truly amazed at the looks of it and the Lalafell was pleased at the feedback, explaining that the credit went to his employee [[Rorosa Rosa]]. Both Elezen took their leave however as they had other items to tend to, but both willing and intent on returning to make use of the place. As Odette returned to her company in the Goblet, she ran into some shenanigans before the household. She chose to ignore it, hearing some Miqo'te calling her a hot blonde but [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] immediately snapped back at the person, threatening to skewer them with his sword if they were to call his kinsman as such. Not wanting to get involved in the talk, she retreated silently to her apartment for the evening.
[[File:pishieandferroux.png|500px|left|]]
With All Saints' Wake around the corner, Odette found advertisements about a costume party at the Coeurl Consortium located in the Mists. While far, she knew that [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Reyza Blackwater]] were planning to go, and wanting to meet with her friends, she decided to go too. She assembled a simply costume of an angel, which she believed suited her best. Arriving at the location, she ran into [[Valentin Vulaire]] who was dressed as the total opposite, a devil. The two of them laughed at the polar opposites and entered the establishment together. The place was packed but Odette did get to meet a few people, among them [[Miraenne Nineux]], a fellow Ishgardian. She did meet her friends and the entire evening was spent with them. As the costume contest was announced, Odette started to debate whether to participate or not and taking into account [[Valentin Vulaire]] 's costume, she was willing to even enter as a duet. She asked him and he seemed to have no issues in joining her. Onstage she made the speech for them while he stood beside her looking intimidating but the prize went to another man. The Elezen man did not seem too content with it but Odette managed to soften it up and they all went back to mingling. While she enjoyed a chat with her friends, he seemed intent on drawing [[Malrinn Nures]] who was dressed as an appealing succubus. It did not sit with Odette too well especially when she remembered a few nights prior when they had kissed. While it wasn't jealousy, it was just a feeling of uncertainty towards the man. Once he left the place, Odette talked to [[Malrinn Nures]] and she offered her some good advice as well as comfort. The Au Ra would tease and flirt with Odette for the entire evening, playing up on her succubus costume. At first Odette had no idea how to react to it but eventually as she relaxed she played along, discovering tht the girl seemed to enjoy when she spoke Old Elezen so she allowed her to indulge in it. The rest of the evening was spent in good company before she returned to the Goblet for a good night's sleep, left to ponder about the future of her relations.

The next day while browsing books back at Raven's Heart, she ran into [[Hayase Daiuzu]] who as always was her timid and reserved self, although the girl expressed interest in Ishgard. She asked Odette if she could tell her about it and she most gladly obliged. The two sat down and Odette immediately got bombarded by the questions, struggling to answer any of them due to the speed at which they were thrown at her. The girl clearly had not a single idea of the place or even the Dragonsong War but Odette did not mind, explaining calmly whatever the girl desired. The Au Ra explained that she had something she wanted fixed and asked her if anyone in Ishgard could and that was when she recalled the Skysteel Factory. The girl showed her a weapon, looking alike to a gun but also a blade. She had never seen anything of the like but inspecting the mechanism, it did look alike to something that the Skysteel Factory could assist with. However, Odette warned the girl that Ishgard would most probably not even let her in considering her looks and how similar she was to a dragon. The reason seemed to completely fly over her head and Odette didn't delve into the topic further, but then [[Hayase Daiuzu]] seemed to want to have Odette take care of the matter. Odette immediately protested, telling her that she could not return to Ishgard but didn't explain why. That was when the Au Ra spotted [[Vildola Fyth]] by the stairs and immediately branded her food, wanting to eat some rabbit. Odette panicked and immediately picked the Au Ra up, using her height as an advantage, stopping her from eating her friend. The girl protested and kicked until [[Haru Rumei]] appeared and demanded an explanation. The Au Ra gave in and just left the group while Odette was left alone to explain what had happened with [[Vildola Fyth]] remaining on edge and clearly panicked. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] came down the stairs and stopped as he spotted the Viera, demanding that she handed in her staff but it only put the woman more on edge, refusing to give in while seeming to look like a trapped animal. [[Haru Rumei]] joined the talk but Odette decided to remain put, not wanting to add more pressure but when she heard her friend sob, she immediately ran to her side, asking her fellow Highborn man for allowance to handle the matter on her own. He allowed it and retreated together with the Au Ra, settling on the couches downstairs. Odette did her best to calm down her friend but the Viera had none of it, immediately running outside, leaving Odette speechless and guessing. Confused, she joined the other two downstairs, sitting down silently until [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] approached her and would start to touch her face, clearly interested in her. While in the past she brushed it off, this time she did understand perfectly the intentions behind his words and she wanted to just get swallowed by the couch. He was intimidating and at the same time she did fear him at a certain level as he was pro-Ishgardian. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] saw this and she just wanted to die of embarrassment, however she jumped up when he mentioned passing a Viera on the streets. Knowing in what direction she went, Odette was intent on finding her friend. The Highborn immediately granted her the leave, however he did say he was wounded that he did not get to spend as much time with her as he wanted, requesting them to spend some time together soon. She did not deny him this and agreed before venturing out. She was unable to find [[Vildola Fyth]] despite going the path that the Miqo'te had told her where he had seen the Viera. Still searching but to no avail, she was soon united again with the Miqo'te, as it seemed he had followed her to help her in the search. While skeptical and not generally enjoying his company, she did take his offer and they would search together. Thanks to his acute sense of smell, they soon found the Viera hiding away in a tunnel in the Goblet. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] decided to go around and block off the other exit to prevent the woman from escaping. Taking a few breaths, Odette stepped into the tunnel, deciding not to sneak up on her friend as it would only startle her further and make her run away, heels clicking with each step she took while she called her name carried by the echo. [[Vildola Fyth]] definitely heard her and was about to take off running but hearing Odette's calm tone she did remain and broke down crying on the ground. Odette sat beside her, arms around the poor thing as she sobbed. The Viera proceeded to explain that she was struggling in adapting to the new place, unable to interact with people, especially when they were like [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. Odette tried her best to calm her down, speaking kind and gentle words while she'd stroke her hairs but the Viera then said that she felt like a burden to her. She only had her and felt like she had no one to turn to, while at the same time only causing her issues. Odette quickly countered her words, stating that they were best friends and that she gladly would dedicate all her time to her. After some more talking, [[Vildola Fyth]] did calm down although she admitted she had nowhere to go, and then Odette told her that she could move in with her into her small apartment. The offer shocked the Viera but she took it and the two became roommates. After the long day, the woman decided to retire to the apartment for some much needed rest and Odette told her she'd join her soon after a small trip to the market to get some food for them to pass the evening together by the fireplace. As the Viera left, [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] came out of hiding, handing her the woman's staff as she seemed to had forgotten it. Odette took it, thanking him for his help. He immediately told her that he was amazed at her good heart and truly impressed by what she had done for her friend. It was a bit offending to know that he thought otherwise but she responded in kind, and the two reconciled with a handshake. He agreed not to speak of what was mentioned in the tunnel as well as her drunken state back when they had first met. She did appreciate it and would exchange a few more words before leaving towards the markets.

While at the markets, Odette made certain to pick out the freshest produce to share with her friend. Content to get a nice hefty bag-full, she started to make her way towards the Goblet but ended up smashing into a lamppost at a turn and she dropped everything while at the same time almost breaking her nose. Annoyed and disoriented, she quickly went about picking up all the fruit when suddenly another hand came into view. Looking up she recognized the man to be [[Varriz Relanah]]. He startled her and she fell back on her rear blushing, aware that he saw the entire incident. He chuckled, helping her out and inspecting any injuries she might have sustained. Noticing that the hit would leave a mark, he proposed to take her back to his shop where he had some healing balm which would help her. Although flustered, she gladly took him up on the offer. At the main square, he took to to his medium sized cart. She was truly amazed as she never got to see one up close and she was like a child set lose in a candy shop. Inside she inspected absolutely every single item, truly amazed and wanting to know everything about the origins of each of the trinkets. He sat her down before they got overly distracted and applied the balm to her forehead. Odette wanted to repay him but he refuse the money, instead wanting to have that walk with her which he had promised her a week prior. While a bit confused at the simple exchange, she did not mind and agreed; the two leaving the cart after she left her groceries there, not wanting to carry them around. He took her to the hill where the Coffin & Coffer we nestled into, wanting to present to her the gorgeous view from above. Despite the breathtaking view, it was clear that she had a much bigger interest in the man's wares back in his cart and he gladly guided her back to it where she proceeded to explore openly everything. As she would pick out something, he would tell her the story behind each item. Despite all the riches and luxurious, she was mostly attracted to the simple things like seashells which she had never seen in her life; it seemed to appeal to him. She inspected a kimono, as well as some shiny rocks, including dried leaves but what caught her eye the most was a musketoon which lay against a shelving unit. She inspected it, quickly remembering her lessons to learn to wield such a weapon. [[Varriz Relanah]] was quite surprised to see her adept at it and he did offer her the chance to polish up her skills, but only if she were willing to pay for the bullets. While tempting, she had another offer, wanting to buy the gun fully from the man. He was gladly willing to sell her the weapon and made her an offer, but she came up one gil short, and pleaded for a deal while laughing at how cliche it seemed. However, much to her surprise, he offered her a game and the winner could ask the other person anything. They had to describe two constellations each and the one to guess both, won. Odette did not inform him that she studied astromancy and so she won easily and as a prize, she requested her money back for the firearm. He was absolutely distraught at how shrewd she was.
[[File:Odettecorvinoixgun.png|500px|right|]]
Odette brought back the weapon to the company where she ran into [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], who immediately expressed interest in the wooden box she held. She opened it and presented him the weapon and he questioned her how come such a gentle and docile person had such a weapon. She explained to him that she was taught to use one when younger and that she managed to get it at a very good deal, free. He seemed genuinely interested in seeing her use it and he requested that she tests it. Seeing no harm in it, she loaded the cartridges in and prepped herself, until he commented that it felt nostalgic to him. Upon asking further, he explained that his mother too was a healer and thta her weapon of choice for self-defense was a gun. The conversation took a turn when he asked her if she would be willing to exchange their expertise, him teaching her melee combat, specializing as a dragoon, while she would teach him how to use a firearm. Odette saw no harm at all in teaching him but he warned her that on his side with the dragoon ways, she would be taught to kill an enemy without reservations for the best of the others. That notion did not sit well with her at all and she kindly rejected his offer; but she up-kept her side of wanting to teach him to use a gun. He commented that she was truly a light in the dark, her kind and soft nature always shinning through. She laughed and promised that despite not being an offence person, she'd make certain not to be a burden on the company, wanting to assist in any way possible. That was when he reminded her that she owed him a check up. Flustered that she had forgotten, she immediately offered to give him the check up immediately and he agreed. At the infirmary, she had him unclothe and that was when she was made aware of the sorry state of his body as it was littered in scars and burns. She checked him over carefully, using her magicks to make certain he was in good health but it was evident that his body was starting to feel the pressure and was worn out. She recommended him to take it easy, which he laughed at, stating she wasn't the only one to say so. Odette knew very well she wasn't the first to say so, and neither would she be the last. He got dressed and thanked her for her time, adding that he would try to take it easy.

The same evening, there was a meet-up at the Desert Carbuncle, a locale in the Goblet. Having nothing better to do she attended alone, but there she ran into [[Pishrero Junerero]] and then [[Ferroux Quilmont]] who joined much later. The trio stood by the bar as they engaged in conversation, the Lalafell and the man immediately touching base with business matters, but it seemed those got delayed due to usual business constraints. The Ishgardian then explained that is was his birthday a few days ago and that everything was going well on his side and he felt generous that evening, inviting his two friends to share a bottle of wine with him as he paid. The businessman refused the offer but Odette, not wanting to seem rude despite her weak head when it came to alcohol, accepted the offer with a smile. This pleased her friend and he immediately ordered an entire bottle for them to share while she prayed to the Fury for her safety and soberness. The two Elezen started drinking away and it was clear that Odette still had issues pacing herself as the men looked on at her with concern but she managed to keep it undercover quite well. [[Pishrero Junerero]] at some point left them to make some business connections and that was when the two Ishgardians spoke more openly. Odette told him of her newly acquired musketoon, explaining that it actually reminded of him since he worked for the Skysteel Manufactory. The notion made him really happy, but he then got curious and asked her if she actually knew how to use a firearm. She explained to him that she was taught to use it as a young girl as it was the only weapon with class that did not require brute force in her family's eyes. As the conversation kept going, she challenged her to a shooting, wanting to see who was the better shot between them as he deemed himself a specialist. She gladly took him up on the challenge, alcohol slowly starting to affect them both and making them much less shy and more charismatic. He said that he had a shooting range in the basement of his mansion back in Ishgard but that made her mood sadden as she reminded him that she could not really visit Ishgard whenever she wanted. That is when he came up with an idea to smuggle her in, literally. On a weekly basis, the Skysteel Manufactory got a shipment of parts from Eorzea and since he was such a workaholic working late hours, he was the only one who took care of opening the crates and ordering the ordered parts. If she were to sneak into one of the crates, or the ship itself, he would then be the one to get her out once she would arrive in Ishgard. The plan seemed perfect and she couldn't even express how happy she was to get such an offer and help from him, jumping up happily. He seemed just as happy and it also would provide him much needed company in his lonesome life. In exchange for his help and hospitality, she did offer him to stay over at her apartment anytime he needed or whenever he visited, however, she underlined that she could only offer him the couch as she was sharing the place with [[Vildola Fyth]]. He went red at the offer but he gladly took it up. A few more people appeared who talked to them but as the evening came to a close, Odette then asked him if he actually had time now for the challenge. He seemed just as hyped and said he had plenty of time so they decided to go test each others' skills immediately, leaving the Desert Carbuncle. He had hidden his gun in some bushes beside the house which made her laugh at how 'professional' it looked. They returned to her apartment in the Goblet where she quickly changed into something more comfortable and she fetched her revolver.
[[File:Odetteferrouxcouple.png|500px|left|]]
The two made their way to the high steps overlooking the Brimming Heart, from where they had the person view over the area as well as potential targets. They agree that the opponent would select the target for the shooter, and first one to get three points would win. She selected his target first and for the first two rounds, they got a perfect tie. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then proposed that they could actually make some deal for the winner to make the game more interesting and she saw no harm in it, although she had no idea what potentially to even ask for. he quickly cancelled the entire prize thing, finding it silly. Odette immediately figured him out and said that if all he wanted was her company, he did not need to win a bet to get it, but simply ask her and he would receive. He was amazed at her divination skills, thinking that it had to be some astrologian magic to read minds. She just laughed it off and they continued their game, for the last round selecting much smaller targets. He was up first and much to his dismay, but her glee, he missed the target. Luck was on Odette's side as she hit a perfect bull's eye on the target he selected for her, making her the winner. In the heat of the moment, she threw herself on him with a hug. While he stiffened at first from his nerves, he swiftly returned it, thanking her for everything. Despite his loss, he felt like a winner as he had met her and gained her friendship, including getting a hug from her. His words were extremely flattering and she smiled, explaining that if he ever wanted a hug he only needed to ask, as it wasn't anything taboo or forbidden. Bashfully, he requested for one more. She immediately embraced him and he indulged in the hug, telling her how grateful and happy he was to meet her back at the Quicksand, and she reciprocated the feeling, truly glad to have met him. She added that deep down, she wished that she had met him sooner, even while she resided in Ishgard, as she was certain his friendship would have changed her path. He understood her perfectly, and he too had a similar impression, explaining that he spent six years alone ever since his parents passed and that his loneliness would not have existed if they had crossed paths. His eyes started to water and she immediately went about cleaning his face should the tears start to fall and she comforted him. She told him that she'd visit him as much as possible, not wanting him to be alone, and now that he found a way to get her into Ishgard undetected, she could do it much more often. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then said that he did wish for more than to just spend time with her, which threw her for a loop. She did not know what else she could offer him apart from visiting him more often but he quickly clarified, confessing to her and asking her to be romantically involved with him. While it hit her hard, she definitely did not dislike the man. He was kind and gentle with her, and he clearly had his own hardships too, but he managed; just like her. It was evident that he cared and that he was desperate for affections; much like her too. She agreed. The two of them sobbed tears of joy and relief, noting that both were crybabies. She promised to try and tone down the crying, aware that if it kept on going they would never finish it. It was then that the two shared their first kiss, warm, tender and innocent. Both were knew to this but the feelings they shared were undeniable as they shared the embrace. He asked her after what they were to do after. Confused, she replied that they would just keep going and do things like normal couples did; going out, spending time together... He laughed, as he meant what they were to do that evening overall, not the dating part. She blushed embarrassed at the faux-pas and they returned to her apartment as he was anyway meant to spend the night there. Once back at the apartment, he expressed interest in meeting her flatmate [[Vildola Fyth]] but she was nowhere to be found. Odette explained to him her friend's situation, stating that the woman was also a foreigner but that she struggled with socializing and anxiety would hit her each time. She was lonely and had nowhere to go, thus, she took her in. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] immediately related with the unknown Viera, fully understanding how bad loneliness was. She explained to him that she would gladly introduce them to one another but that for the time being it was best not to force it, fearing her friend would just freak out anew as she remembered the incident from a few days prior. The couple sat together by the fire, talking into the late night until Odette started to slowly fall asleep over his shoulder. He noticed her passing out and debated whether to take her to her bedroom but he couldn't bring himself to it and the two of them drifted to sleep together on the couch.

The following evening there was a costume party at Raven's Heart to celebrate All Saints Wake, and so Odette invited [[Sini'to Shadar]] as well as [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. The priest came dressed as a grey pig which was definitely disturbing and even the Elezen man was left speechless when he met him. Odette dressed up as a very casual witch while [[Ferroux Quilmont]], being in a rush and having not much of a selection, dressed up on the fancy side with a simple moogle hat to top it off. The three headed over to the company house and were immediately greeted by many people. Some even seemed to know already of the relationship which made [[Ferroux Quilmont]] embarrassed and he spent the entire evening at Odette's side. At some point there has been a contest to locate four stuffed toys; the lights went off and panic ensued. The Elezen was so excited and wanting to win that he was dragging Odette all over the place and they did very well together however the win went to another. They did receive consolation prizes consisting of a few cookies and a bottle of wine each. The evening came to an early end and everyone went their way while the couple decided to retreat back to Odette's apartment to try out the wine they had won. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] tended to the wine and as he got it open, they would talk on many different topics, among them him asking her of her hobbies as well as favourite things. Odette learned that he was to return to Ishgard the following day and it saddened her, however she understood very well that it was for work and that it could not be avoided. She did promise that she would visit him no matter what, despite the risks. He appreciated it but did explain that he was planning on changing positions, wanting something more mobile or closer to her but she insisted that he did as his heart desired, not wanting him to change anything only for her sake. With the wine and the great company, the two got more intimate. Both being new at it, it was either awkward but the wine helped there with that. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] got worked up as did Odette as the two got heated and would explore a bit more of each others' bodies, however, Odette remained sane and stopped it before it got too far, stating that it was a bit too soon and that she did not want to do it without the necessary precautions. He agreed and after a moment they did calm down from the moment of fervor, deciding to retreat to bed. As they undressed, Odette noticed the amount of scars covering his left torso and it worried her. He told her the tale of an explosion of a gas tank which almost killed him but instead left him the large scar. His line of work definitely did not seem to be the safest but since it was something he adored to do, she did not voice any further concerns and the two went to sleep.

Morning came and [[Ferroux Quilmont]] departed for Ishgard. Odette, left alone, definitely felt the loneliness hit her immediately and her motivation and mood just dropped. She did not want to go out or anything, struggling to manage without him after such amazing two days. That was when [[Varriz Relanah]] paid her a visit and to get her out, he took her to another All Saint’s Wake costume party. Despite not feeling up for it, she did go and dressed up the same way as at the previous party while he got dressed as a creepy doctor. The event was at the Goblet which was convenient and once inside they ran into [[Sini’to Shadar]], dressed as a grey pig. Everyone was dumbfounded by this development and he definitely did everything to channel a pig in his costume, as far as making sound effects and pig noises. [[Varriz Relanah]] definitely questioned her choice of friends but both men did get along as they found common ground with the mercantile business. [[Simeon Sibaruse]] also happened to be at the event and he too began to question the people Odette attracted, but he did find it amusing. Everyone relaxed and mingled in peace, Odette definitely feeling much better and perked up in the presence of her friends when suddenly [[Valentin Vulaire]] made an appearance and immediately set his sights on her. [[Varriz Relanah]] immediately stepped in, taking up a protective posture, which I turn, made [[Valentin Vulaire]] believe that he was her partner and it triggered new talks. He would touch her and try to sweet-talk her, and then he asked her to join him on a trip. She was left shocked and started to ask questions, wanting the reasons for the trip and when it was meant to be; to which he replied immediately. Odette refused and told him they would talk tomorrow as she could not leave right now out of nowhere. He did not seem too pleased but he agreed and then took his leave. The encounter exhausted her but she managed to enjoy the event regardless, including witnessing [[Sini’to Shadar]] winning the costume contest.

Odette was woken up by a knock on her door at an obnoxious hour, rolling out still in her nightgown to rush to the door. As she opened it, it was [[Valentin Vulaire]]. While she knew they were to meet, she did not expect it to be even before sunrise. He invited himself in while she tried to wake up, quickly brushing through her hairs with her fingers to make herself look a bit more presentable. Wasting no time, she asked him what was going on yesterday, wanting to know why he needed to go to Ishgard immediately, and why with her. He then explained that it need not be Ishgard and that he simply desired to go away somewhere with her. The news shocked her and she found herself struggling to accept such an offer due to her current status. Seeing it as an amicable outing, she began to pack her things until he then told her it would be a date. She immediately stopped her packing and told him up front that she could not go with him as she was seeing someone. It was evident that he did not appreciate the news and even tried to coerce her into coming along with him regardless, trying to kiss her in the process but she refused him and he left her alone, leaving the apartment. Distraught and confused, feeling lonely, Odette remembered that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] had left her his linkpearl. Despite the early hours of the morning, she called him and caught him in the middle of work. He immediately took a break to be able to speak with her, clearly extremely happy to hear her. She refused to tell him of what had happened but she admitted to missing him and asked if she could actually try out his plan of smuggling her in. Surprised but definitely not against it he informed her that a shipment to Ishgard was due in a few hours and she agreed to be on it. They exchanged a few tenders words and Odette prepped for the journey. In Ul’dah at the airship landing she immediately was able to locate the airship bound for Ishgard and she hid herself in one of the crates without anyone noticing her. To keep herself occupied she had taken with herself a small book and nothing else, the crate much too tight to take anything else with herself. The journey wasn’t bad at all as most of it was relatively quiet but as the ship would approach Ishgard, the freezing cold was undeniable and she had forgotten to take her jacket with herself, especially when living in Thanalan. It got a bit warmer once it seemed the crates were finally deposited somewhere and she was able to discern voices and footsteps. She was sweating bullets, worried that someone other than [[Ferroux Quilmont]] would find her, which would definitely end her. To her relief, she then heard his voice called for her and she knocked on her crate to let him know where she was. He immediately got her out and the two shared an embrace, overjoyed to reunite even if they hadn’t seen each other for only two days. Seeing her shaking from the cold he immediately gave her his coat, taking her to the employee room where they shared a quick meal he had prepared for them. While eating, Odette gently told him of what had happened and it definitely did not sit well with him but he did not want to alarm her and so he kept his cool. Among the talks, he asked her why she couldn’t enter and leave Ishgard at ease. While she did not want to speak of it, especially to him, she understood that it was something which he deserved to know. Odette proceeded to explain her betrothal to another from another House and how she escaped. He did not expect such a tale, and while he understood her, he felt sorry for her family who missed her. She too understood his point of view but she wasn’t about to throw away her hard work for them nor her freedom. However, the matter did get him thinking, debating as far as even having her marry him so the family would be unable to wed her to another. The idea definitely was not a bad one but both of them agreed that it was much too early to even debate such things, leaving them flustered and embarrassed. Once they finished the meal, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] quickly cleaned up and they went for a walk in the city. He decided to take her towards the Brume, which she never had the occasion to explore thoroughly. During the walk they talked of many things, and their affections would merely strengthen each time, each one supporting the other. At the Forgotten Knight they shared some tea by the fire as more talks started, this time about family and the state of House Quilmont. Odette always reinforced that she did not care of his status and that she accepted him fully no matter what. While he knew the words were heartfelt, it still pained him that he could not give her what he wanted. Once finished, they then went back to his place.
[[File:Ferrouxandodetteinoffice.png|400px|left|]]
The house was definitely rundown and struck with poverty, but it was clear to see that it used to be a grand mansion. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was definitely ashamed of the fact but Odette was well aware of the reasons and did not blame him in the least. Quite the contrary, she found the place cozy. He gave her a tour of the entire place, her attention definitely on his small office where she asked him if he ever slept there. He nodded. Odette knew very well that he neglected himself and she did not approve, hoping to perhaps change that during her stay with him. She inspected his bookcase while he wrapped his arms around her waist, asking if she was into engineering books. Alas, chuckling, she replied that she was much more into poetry and romance novels but she proposed that she’d gladly read to him sometime in the evenings. He seemed to enjoy the idea and agreed. Next room was his workshop. It was a different world for her as she inspected all the machines and his contraptions, immediately complimenting him on his talents. Modestly he appreciated her words but he did not see it as talent. Odette quickly clarified and explained to him why she saw it as amazing, leaving him blushing and flattered. He too then proceeded to compliment her, learning that she was a talented piano player. After a long exchange, he proposed that they move back upstairs and have some wine, or sit on the couch. Unable to choose, she decided they have some wine by the fireplace. Amused he agreed and he went to fetch one of the best bottles of wine his father had kept, wanting to share it with her. Odette still struggled with drinking alcohol but she did not want it to be a problem when spending time with him, so she pushed her boundaries a bit. As they drank the wine and enjoyed each other’s company, she asked him about his parents, genuinely wanting to know more. While he seemed at peace with it all, it was clear that he still pained him at times. Odette gladly listened as he described his parents to her, adding that for certain they would have liked it. It definitely made her smile, the talk and the wine calming her down. As the evening carried on, they drank more and more and it relaxed both introverts to the point them beginning to make out fervently, shyness dimmed and other senses heightened. As they got more and more into it, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] proposed they move to the bedroom. She agreed and he took her there, where both of them froze up completely. The reality loomed over both and neither were capable to initiate anything. Odette took a deep breath, genuinely wanting this with him and refusing for her shyness to be the barrier from them consummating their relationship. Reaching deep for some much needed courage, she took the lead, having him sit at the edge of the beg and cradling herself over his lap. He was left speechless but seeing her take the lead, he too tried to push past his timid side. The two of them slowly relax as they would slowly shed pieces of clothing, revealing themselves more and more to each other, no barriers or secrets left. A most tender and intimate night followed as the two finally consummated their relationship, Odette having her very first experience with him, and she did not regret it one bit.

In the afterglow, [[Ferroux Quilmont]], out of nowhere, asked her to move in with him. It left Odette speechless and he immediately thought that perhaps his words were too soon but she countered him in seconds, expressing her joy and fully willing to move in with him in a heartbeat. He was overjoyed to hear this and cried together with her in glee. However, this brought up an entire new conversation as Odette started to debate how she could return to Ishgard but still remain unfound by her family, but still be able to function freely around the city. While discussing the options, she came up with the brilliant idea to become a private tutor to other Houses, aiming to teach the children etiquette as well as everything necessary to be worthy Highborn to a noble house. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was surprised but he definitely could see her succeeding, as she took went through such strict upbringing and she knew it through and through. But, it would expose her even more by becoming known around the Houses. It was still a smart move to be in plain sight and yet hidden. Odette felt excited about being able to find some form of employment in Ishgard to be able to assist with the finances, but she needed a new identity. She then asked him if she could use House Quilmont as her cover up. This shocked him, but he was flattered that she wanted to carry his family name. Then the debate on whom she would be within the household began, and jokingly he stated that she could be simply Odette Quilmont. The two of them got flustered immediately and they just panicked, understanding that he meant her posing as his wife. Odette was the first to calm down and decided that she would simply be a tutor from House Quilmont, offering her services to other Houses. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] agreed. He then asked her about her life back in Thanalan, about her apartment and also her allegiance towards her company. She explained that she would leave her keys to [[Malrinn Nures]], allowing her to tend to her place, or simply give it away fully to [[Vildola Fyth]] as she did need a place to stay at. As for her loyalty towards Raven’s Heart, she had partaken in a meeting where [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was leaving them for a prolonged period of time, leaving the company in the hands of his second in command. No one appeared to trust the woman and Odette was there solely due to her agreement with [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], thus, she had nothing holding her there anymore. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] didn’t feel too comfortable with her abandoning her life in Thanalan but he was overjoyed to have her move in with him. It appeared that everything was settled and Odette had a lot to plan in the coming days to set it all in motion.
</spoiler>

'''Feeling of Belonging''' (24-Current)

<spoiler>
With [[Ferroux Quilmont]] occupied with work, Odette ventured out to the Jeweled Crozier to browse the wares. Once there, she purchased three books, each contained some fairy-tales as well as light romances. Still looking about, the moment she turned around she immediately spotted and recognized [[Malrinn Nures]] tending to a stall selling flowers. Odette immediately approached her and the two girls shared an embrace, both thrilled to have run into each other, and surprised to see the other in Ishgard. The Au Ra quickly explained that she did live in Ishgard most of her time and that she was a florist while Odette gently said that she was staying in Ishgard, most likely permanently. This immediately piqued the girl's interest and she closed her stall for the moment to go have something warm to eat with the Elezen. The two went over to another area of the market where Odette purchased them some stew and hot chocolate to warm up, settling on a set of stairs to each in peace despite the cold. While Odette nursed her bowl in her lap, warming up her hands, the Au Ra immediately asked her why she was deciding to stay in Ishgard. Blushing, Odette then explained that she had met someone and that they had moved in. This came as a huge shock to her friend but the girl was very understanding, immediately expressing her joy and aware that if it was something that Odette had decided to follow, then it had to be right. This came as a huge relief to her, glad to have the support of her dearest friend. [[Malrinn Nures]] then also mentioned that she had met someone and was going out. This news overjoyed Odette and the two girls exchanged some girly talks, enjoying their time together and the banter, the Au Ra going as far as asking about intimate things which immediately made Odette blush and unable to respond. Once done, the two returned to the Au Ra’s flower stand where they talked some more, Odette mentioning that [[Ferroux Quilmont]]’s mansion was a bit rundown and that she would like to bring more life to it. That was when [[Malrinn Nures]] decided to give her some flowers to liven up the place and she proposed a beautiful set of potted Azalea’s. Odette was absolutely thrilled at the gift, asking what she wanted in exchange to which her friend replied, half-jokingly, that she’d want to be the florist for her wedding ceremony once it would happen. Flustered, Odette agreed and the two parted ways, both extremely happy to have met one another.

Returning to House Quilmont, Odette would set down her books and the pot of Azalea’s by the table near the door while she removed her outerwear. Taking a moment to listen in, she could hear some noise coming from downstairs, suspecting it had to be her partner who had come back from work earlier. She descended the stairs, calling for him and the response was almost immediate, accompanied with the noise of items falling to the floor before the doors to his workshop opened, a cloud of smoke escaping the room. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was a mess as per usual but clearly thrilled to see her as he embraced the woman, while she looked behind him to inspect the mess, noticing his desk in disarray and a pile of papers laying all over the floor. The two of them quickly cleaned up the place and Odette mentioned to him that she met her best friend at the market, mentioning that she was an Au Ra. This worried him as their kind wasn’t too welcome but Odette reassured him that [[Malrinn Nures]] was a strong character and that she could manage on her own. She then added that the girl had gifted them a pot of flowers to decorate the mansion, which overjoyed him. Odette motioned him to follow her back upstairs once they were done with cleaning to show them to him but he swept her off her feet, carrying her back to the ground floor. Her hands immediately snaked behind his neck for support as he held her in his arms, sharing a tender embrace as he brought her upstairs. Odette then showed him the beautiful fuchsia flowers as well as the three books she had purchased. He thanked her immediately for bringing the flowers as well as bringing more life to the mansion, which fueled the next conversation. She mentioned that she had been to the attic to inspect what was up there, as well as searching for actual clothes for herself as she had brought nothing with herself. Luckily she had found some clothes to be able to perfectly camouflage herself when out and about. It definitely got him curious and he followed her to the attic. He immediately noticed that she had cleaned up a large portion of the place, mostly a part contained closets and chests. Inside of them, Odette had found lots of female attire, suspecting it to be his mother’s, which he later on confirmed. She quickly threw on a coat which seemed like a teachers garb, including a pair of lenseless glasses before tying up her fabulous blonds into two plain braids. Despite the simplicity, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] found her rather charming in the clothes which definitely flattered her. She did find more dresses and clothes and he immediately commented that he would not mind having her wear any of them, his mother definitely would have approved. This truly lessened her worries as well as warmed the heart to know. The two of them decided to go outside to get some groceries done, while at the same time testing her getup.

Before heading out, she did note that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was rather filthy since he had been at work, his face caked with oils and dirt. He laughed agreeing and told her to give him a few minutes to go wash himself. She then settled herself over the couch with one of the books she had purchased, keeping herself busy while he tended to himself. Shortly after she heard some whistling, assuming it was him so she rose her head from her book to look but then spotted him waltzing past completely naked! She immediately called out his name alarmed and he was then made aware that he wasn’t alone, quickly taking the towel from his head to wrap it around his waist before darting towards the bedroom to change. Odette remained there sitting absolutely frozen until he finally came out, fully dressed and ready to head out. It was evident that he too was caught off-guard, haven forgotten that she was there as he acted on pure habit. The awkwardness was evident and to loosen it up, she chuckled and ran out the front door, calling him to follow along. Confused, he followed her outside only to be greeted by a snowball to the chest. He immediately burst into laughter, collecting snow in his hands and throwing it back at her. The two continued their antics, Odette content to see him calm down and loosen up after the little exposure from before. The back and forth continued for a while until he finally won by throwing her onto a pile of snow, threatening to throw snow down her shirt. Despite the silliness, the two kissed and shared another tender moment between their fun; before finally getting up and heading towards the market. At the market, the two struggled to decide what to even get; Odette completely inept at cooking while [[Ferroux Quilmont]] appeared a bit more comfortable with it, but still quite lacking. They decided to make his favourite: meatpies. But both had no idea how to even begin and they debated getting perhaps a cooking book. He opted not to, seeing it as a challenge and a way to have fun. They quickly purchased a few basics they assumed logical like eggs, milk, butter, flour…etc

Walking back home hand in hand, they began to talk about dinner as well as some idle casual talk. Among the topics however, he mentioned wanting to spend a lovely evening with her, to which she replied that she hoped for more than just one evening. This brought him joy and he went as far as saying that he hoped it would be for the rest of her life, and to his surprise, she did not mind, agreeing to the notion. This did make him freeze up in surprise and she would go about kissing his cheek, wanting him to calm down a bit, aware that he was perhaps embarrassed. Unknown if due to confusion or he just blurted out his thoughts without thinking, he then asked for her to become his wife; quickly adding that it did not have to be immediately or the next day, but someday, wanting her to become Odette Quilmont officially. It rendered her absolutely speechless, immediately asking him he meant it to be her cover-up while residing in Ishgard or if it was a genuine question. To her question, he dropped down to one knee, proposing to her officially and asking for her hand in marriage. She had not expected it to ever happen in her life, betrothed to another by her family; and yet her heart sung out to him. Despite escaping one marriage, she felt this one was right and she wanted it. She felt to her knees before him, embracing him as she wept tears of joy. He was taken aback for a moment, processing what had just happened before it finally reached him that she agreed to the union. His arms wrapped around the woman as he promised to cherish her forever as she promised to be always at his side. The two remained wrapped around one another, allowing the moment to sink in before finally getting up and heading back to the mansion. Odette felt like nothing could stop her anymore, especially with [[Ferroux Quilmont]] at her side. He was her everything and he made her the happiest woman in the realm that day. He casually mentioned that he still was amazed that she was with him, unable to understand why. She smiled, replying that she’d show him later on just what she sees. It got him to blush but he wasn’t opposed to it, his thoughts definitely leaning towards intimate ones. Lost in her thoughts, Odette suddenly smacked her head dead onto a lamppost right before the gates to the mansion, immediately kneeling to the ground as her hands pressed to her forehead. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] went mental with worry, immediately picking her up, assuming the worst. She tried to calm him done but he wouldn’t have any of it, kicking the front door of his house open before laying the woman over the couch. She remained absolutely perplexed, more worried about the state of the door than herself as she felt perfectly fine. He went about closing the door before he returned to her. She reassured him again that she was fine and he finally gave in, seeing that she was alright. He got up and would ask her if she wanted to cook immediately or relax a bit before beginning. Her arms then wrapped around him as she pressed herself to his back, timidly asking for some cuddles. He was genuinely happy to hear such a request and agreed, first quickly setting the foods in the kitchen before returning to her to join her on the couch. Once he was there, she beamed and would cradled herself in his life, picking out a small pocket-mirror out of the pockets of her skirt. She flipped it open, having the mirror face him so he could see his reflection and she proceeded to explain to him just what she saw in him, as promised a few minutes prior. A heart of gold, a caring personality, smart, loving, generous; and the list went on. [{Ferroux Quilmont]] was left speechless, become more and more red by the minute. He then returned the favour, much to her surprise, stating all the qualities that he loved about her; beautiful, kind and brave, adding the fact that she saved a man’s life from a lifetime of solitude. He was absolutely overjoyed to have this exchange and he embraced her anew, reiterating his undying love for her.

They exchange a few more tender words until Odette decided to take the initiative, her arms sliding past his shoulders to grab hold of the back of the couch, pressing her body against his own. He immediately caught on and would have his hands over her before having her lay down over the couch with him over her. Both still flustered about the entire thing, it still would not deter their determination, Odette wanting to experience more intimacy with him just as much as he wanted with her. They began innocently, both red, but their bodies and hearts calling for one another. They shared they second intimate evening wrapped around one another in a tight embrace, Odette never wishing to part and intent on being less shy around him. In public she was the one who was much more open, but when alone with him, their roles would reverse, her being shy and him more forthcoming.

One evening after going out to purchase more books for herself, back at the mansion, Odette ran into [[Ferroux Quilmont]] conversing with [[Simeon Sibaruse]]. Her partner immediately greeted her overjoyed to see her, and yet he appeared flustered and embarrassed, struggling to form words. Confused, she asked the two of their topic of discussion and the older Elezen replied that they spoke of touching. It only worked to confuse her further, unable to comprehend what was so bad about that. Her second-half would whisper to her ear, explaining as best as he could but it still failed until the guest clarified that they spoke of intimacy with each of their partners. The result was immediate as her face went as red as her partner's, [[Simeon Sibaruse]] meanwhile quite literally laughing to his heart's content. She settled herself between the two of them on the couch, the man still teasing and poking fun at her partner but she quickly stood up to him, gently requesting for him to stop which he did, deeming that he sufficiently had the youngster suffer. Regardless of the teasing, he expressed that he genuinely was pleased to see the couple together and that he saw them as a perfect fit, wishing them the best. The news overjoyed her and she expressed her gratitude to the man together with [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. They exchanged a few more words when the men then moved on to the topic of the Ishgardian restoration. Not wanting to be in their way and wanting to go indulge in her new books, she excused herself to head downstairs and the two men would continue talking away.

As planned, Odette returned to Eorzea, needing to close up any loose ends before officially returning and staying in Ishgard.
She entered the Raven's Heart establishment, and perhaps she was lucky, as she found not a soul inside. Walking over to the notice board, she sighed heavily, a paper she had written beforehand in her hands as they shook nervously. She did feel a bit guilty but her loyalties were elsewhere. At a prior reunion at the company, [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was going to leave to tend to the Ishgardian restoration and with him gone, nothing was tying her to the place. She had no quarrels with anyone but her heart was back in Ishgard too. With that in mind, she pinned her letter to the board before heading out the door, leaving the company for good, but in her heart, she hoped it wasn't forever and that she would still meet the few people she had made friends with during her stay.
</spoiler>

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Gallery'''</div>===

<gallery>
Kalayahandodette.png|K'alayah & Odette
Taluhtotalk.png|Talking with Taluh'to
Sagoliidesert.png|Sagolii Desert Mission
Corvinoixandodette.png|Corvinoix & Odette
brokenfinger.png|New Infirmary
Odetteandkaida.png|Kaida & Odette
arthainduel.png|Arthain's Duel
Valandodettekiss.png|Valentin & Odette Bonding
friendlyadvice.png|Friendly Advice from Malrinn
shootingbet.png|Ishgardian Passtime
talkingthenightaway.png|Odette & Ferroux
allsaintswakerhrp.png|All Saints Wake
</gallery>

[[Category:Character]] [[Category:Player Character]] [[Category:Elezen]] [[Category:Ishgardian]] [[Category:Duskwight Elezen]] [[Category:Character Stub]]

Meriell Bell

2020-03-20T15:05:44Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Relationships */

Odette Veaureaux

2020-03-20T15:03:53Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Gallery */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Odette Veaureaux
| image = odetteveaureauxprofile.png
| imagewidth = 340
| caption = "I had all the riches a person could desire...but freedom was not a luxury I could afford"
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ishgardian
| race = [[:Category:Elezen|Elezen]]
| clan = [[:Category:Duskwight Elezen|Duskwight]]
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 24
| stat_2 = Nicknames
| stat_2_value = Petal, Swan
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Noblewoman
| stat_4 = Guardian Deity
| stat_4_value = [[Halone, the Fury]]
| stat_5 = Marital Status
| stat_5_value = Betrothed to [[Ferroux Quilmont]]
| stat_6 =
| stat_6_value =
}}
<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''About The Player'''</div>
* '''Time Zone:''' CET - Poland
* '''Nationality:''' Canadian-Polish
* '''Server:''' Omega
* '''FC''': None
* '''Lodestone:''' [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/27316543/ Odette Veaureaux]
* '''Additional Characters:''' [[Meriell Bell]], [[Rinako Ura]], [[Shin Nelhah]], [[Black Forest]], [[Rorosa Rosa]], [[Zetoh'a Velshado]], [[Bernadette Bearclaw]], [[Berold Bearclaw]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''General'''</div>===
'''Odette Aveline Geneviève Celestria de Veaureaux''', commonly referred to simply as "'''Odette'''", is a highborn noblewoman hailing from The Hole See of Ishgard.

With family roots stemming back millennia to form a very devoted household to the Theocracy, as well as being very traditional in it's beliefs, she lead a very secluded and controlled lifestyle.
She followed her family in their wishes, having truly no choice in anything in her life. Years of being groomed to carry on the noble title with dignity while being the embodiment of a lady, she remained silent, unaware of the lands outside nor what freedom they offered. As her hand was given in marriage to a complete stranger from another noble house, she would slowly start to notice the cracks in her supposedly perfect lifestyle. As the doubts grew, so did her yearning to break away from her restrained lifestyle and family. It was then that a group of adventurers from Ul'dah assisted her in her escape.

In Ul'dah, with nowhere to go and confused by the completely new lands, she joined [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900646603/ Aurora Eorzea], where they took great care of her, as well as sheltering her from her family who, no doubt, was searching for her. Her cooperation did not last long as she met a fellow Ishgardian nobleman who immediately gave her a deeper purpose in his company, wanting her to assist in the infirmary as well as healing the wounded at [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900660662/ Raven's Heart]. It came with a sense of home to serve under another Highborn and she took his offer gladly but this was short-lived as a chance encounter with another Highborn named [[Ferroux Quilmont]] turned her entire world upside down, falling deeply in love with the man to the point of returning to Ishgard to move in with him while remaining still hidden from her family.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Personality'''</div>===
Genteel, calm and serene, Odette is the pillar of composure, grace and beauty.
She always has something nice to say to everyone and will do it with utmost class, style and dignity, displaying her strict noble upbringing at all times as it is not something she can hide. Highly educated and always polite, she always refers to others on a formal basis, unless said person requests otherwise.
Odette is extremely friendly to anyone and usually won't ever avoid people, unless given good reason to. She is unable to use slang words or curse words; a thing which simply doesn't click with her due to her childhood. She does not mind if others use slang or shorter versions of words, but heavy curse words will always ruffle up her feathers and she shuns such individuals. She is always very eloquent and elegant with her words as well as her mannerisms; an absolute lady in every aspect. She struggles to be more casual as well as to adapt to normal Eorzean life but she is willing to push herself to be able to mingle better with others.

She isn't one for violence and shall avoid it at all costs, always pushing for peace via diplomacy. Very articulate and soft-spoken, she is able to often calm down situations as long as they do not require brute force. If there is some uproar or ruckus in the vicinity, she is one to avoid it, preferring not to even be involved.

Despite all her advantages, she is very easy to be lied to, as she is very trusting of strangers due to a naive nature. She is not used to teasing, flirting or even jokes and they always send her for a spin, unknowing how to react to them. She often blushes in embarrassment and would try to diffuse the situation, but most often she would end up merely embarrassing herself even further. She has no experience at all with normal interactions with others and she struggles to understand at times the meanings behind peoples' actions. Fretted by the touch of a butterfly's wing, ready to faint at the sound of a beetle or the rattling of a window pane at night, she is a very skittish person, easily startled if approached out of nowhere.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Appearance'''</div>===
[[File:Odetteappearance.png|520px|left|]]
Odette is a woman of absolute beauty and exemplar refinement, which is impossible to go unnoticed.

She has gorgeous golden blond locks, semi-tied into a braid reaching to her mid-back; only at times pinned up into a tight bun. A pair of stunning and brilliant big icy-blue eyes. At simple glance anyone can say that she is a noblewoman, her fingers untouched by manual labour and her skin unexposed to the sun, white almost like porcelain or the freshest milk.. She takes great care of her looks, often spending hours by the mirror, making sure that she is presentable for the day. As most her kind, she is fairly tall, however among her own people she would not be considered the tallest, standing at a good average height among Elezen. A slender and delicate build, she is the embodiment of feminine charm and elegance.

Being a noblewoman, she tends to wear long garbs or gowns, often decorated intricately with embroidery or gemstones which came to the floor. While most nolewomen wore colourful fabrics, her favourite dress is a simply pale blue Ishgardian gown, void of any elaborateness but padded from the inside with fur to keep her warm. Not one for jewelry, she only wears simple crystal earrings, not wanting any bracelets or necklaces as she feels they get too much in the way. With some attire, she also wears a pair of sheer-white gloves, most commonly used when meeting people and not doing anything which would entail dirtying her hands. For footwear, she always wears her favourite pair of white, thigh-high Ishgardian boots. Odette was not one to wear headpieces but when cold, she would wear a pale blue cap with a small veil at the back which she would often keep at the front to shield her face.

She started to try and dress much more casual and common, pairing her own attire with some more everyday pieces of clothing. Trousers started to make way into her wardrobe as well as simpler blouses and shirts. But no matter what she wore, her noble upbringing was always evident at first glance, if not even just by how much care she took of herself.
With recent developments, she began to dress even more casual with darker colours making an appearance as well as a pair of glasses over her nose, the look more alike to a tutor or teacher more than a noblewoman. Her fabulous blonds tied up in a braid going around her head and often hidden under a cap. Despite the immense change in attire, when one would look closer, they would spot that she was a beauty under all the rags regardless.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Occupation'''</div>===
[[File:Astrologyodette.png|580px|right|]]
Being a noble and the youngest of the family, Odette had no job or occupation, other than studying.
She is very highly educated, especially in all sorts of literature and teachings. Manners and etiquette were of prime importance, including how to curtsy and how to mix with the greatest nobles in Ishgard. Time would be spent learning how to dance and ride. Some housewifely duties such as preserving fruits, sewing, embroidery and household management were also taught, to prepare her for her duties as a married woman. Expecting her to run the household in the possibility of the absence of her husband to be, it was imperative that she be literate and have reasonable mathematical skills so that she might run these with efficiency and be able to check whether her household costings seemed reasonable. She was taught to read, write, tell stories, read romances and judge the merits of poetry. Her favourite were leisure romances and poems as well as holy scriptures. She often undertook singing lessons and was instructed in multiple musical instruments.
Her spiritual education was critical being Ishgardian, and she would be extremely devout to Halone like most noble families.

Aside from her noble upbringing, she also learned the art of astromancy which came at a very early age, as her parents would send her daily to the Atheneum Arcaneum to study with the elders. They only saw fit that she learned to channel her Aether in a useful way, and being a trouble-maker as a child, it was a good activity to keep her mind busy from all her other studies which were dull to her. Odette enjoyed greatly reading the night sky and its constellations, and was an ace student. She mastered the skill of foresight and would learn to wield the magicks of the stars in her hands as she got to hold her very first star globe. She has never applied her skills in combat and has no experience outside of normal use as she specialized in healing magicks.
At the behest of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], she was put in charge of tending to the wounded during missions as well as afterwards in the infirmary. She made it her priority, making certain that they were stocked up on all medical supplies and she even took pride in her newly found job, wanting to assist people as best as she could.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Combat'''</div>===
Odette has absolutely no experience in battle, only having been exposed once to a mission and she did not enjoy it one bit.

Being a noblewoman, she has no endurance or stamina to show for, nor strength for that matter.
While not a fighter, she does offer a supportive role as a healer and helper to her companions, putting their safety and needs above her own at times. She utilizes her natural Duskwight assets of a very acute sense of hearing as well as her eyesight in the dark.

She was offered to be taught the ways of the dragoon by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but she rejected it, unable to bring herself to hurt another person no matter the circumstance. She prefers to offer succor to people, and not inflict pain. He respected her decision; however, she did turn towards firearms after buying one off [[Varriz Relanah]]. As a young lady back in Ishgard she was taught to use them, as the Skysteel Manufactory was renowned and the family deemed it a fitting weapon, elegant and not requiring physical confrontation.

However, when put under extreme pressure or when someone is in danger, she can surprise all those around her, even herself, by showing incredible bravery, most likely fueled through adrenaline. On one occasion needing to reach a device at the bottom of a crate filled with poison oozing-worms; she took off her shirt and wrapped her arm in it to reach inside and obtain the device to complete the mission. Her devotion is unquestionable and even if she does not enjoy being on the front-lines, she is definitely an asset to any team.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Tendencies'''</div>===
'''Likes'''
::* Afternoon tea time
::* Sugary confections
::* Kind and honest people
::* Warm weather with sunny skies
::* Beautiful and artsy objects/decor

'''Dislikes'''
::* Profanity and vulgarism
::* Being treated differently due to social standing
::* Stuck-up and arrogant people
::* Extremely direct and inappropriate conversations
::* Alcohol / Drunkenness
::* Swimming, since she cannot swim at all

'''Hobbies'''
::* Observing the night sky
::* Studying different cultures
::* Discovering the world
::* Stitching and embroidery
::* Playing music
::* Indulging in poetry and leisure romance novels

'''Skills'''
::* Very skilled piano and harp player
::* Fervent poetry writer

<div style="border:0px solid; padding:8px;"><b>
<div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #90AB76;">◢ Common Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is a beauty both inside and out. A lady through and through"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #F37E1D;">◢ Uncommon Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#F37E1D;" size="3">■</font> "Despite all her beauty, she looks to be an airhead and an idiot like all other nobles"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #D83018;">◢ Rare Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#D83018;" size="3">■</font> "Don't let her serenity fool you... She can be quite the rebel when needed"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #aac5b4;">◢ PC Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Relationships'''</div>===

<center><font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Family    <font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> Love    <font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> Platonic    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Failed     <font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> Good    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> Neutral    <font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> Poor    </center>

'''Family'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Asoix Veaureaux (57)
The head of the family and father of Odette and Clauvort. A powerful man of high standing, not taking 'no' for an answer under no circumstances. He was never close to anyone in his family as he was more of a leader than a father or husband; distant and unattainable to anyone. Odette never saw him as more than the leader of their family and never had any relationship with the man.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Jucette Veaureaux (53)
Jucette is Odette's mother; a kind and genteel woman, much like her. Everyone would say that Odette was the exact copy of her mother, only younger. Odette was always a mother's girl and she adored spending time with her, until slowly noble life would catch up and duties called as well as her studies and the two drifted apart fairly quickly. Her mother wanted to see nothing more but to have Odette grow into a beautiful and distinguished woman, at the same time, ignoring the girl's happiness.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Clauvort Veaureaux (29)
Odette's older brother and future head of the Veaureaux family. He is head-strong and has all the characteristics to be a marvelous leader, however, he lacks open-mindedness and treats things as they are seen, which she sees as a great fault. He is confident, at times even arrogant about his position, but he was always protective of his baby sister and the two grew up together to bond very closely despite their different ideals. After the disappearance of Odette, he was the most worried and would search for her frantically no matter what.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Zeauraut Traideux (29)
Her fiancee and betrothed whom she never had even met or seen. She had no desire to meet the man and instead she left Ishgard as their first meeting was to be at the altar during their marriage ceremony. Even if he might have been a good man, she did not want to take the risk. She did meet the man indirectly after she let Ishgard but getting to know his nature, she knew she made the right decision to leave. Prideful, arrogant and stuck-up, all qualities she despised.

'''Love Interests'''
:<font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> [[Ferroux Quilmont]] (26)
A chance meeting at the Quicksand and this young but endearing fellow Ishgardian made a lasting impression on her. Workaholic and neglectful of himself, she did try to somehow ease it up on him but he seemed to be overworking himself to cover up his loneliness. When she expressed the desire to help him, he said that all he wanted was friends. It made her quite happy and she immediately offered her friendship to the man. While the two would have many odd and awkward moments, it was clear they got along perfectly. Despite only ever meeting twice, on the second encounter, he asked her out. Ever since, the two became inseparable to the point of him asking for her to move in with him back in Ishgard, and shortly after for her hand in marriage, to which she agreed.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Valentin Vulaire]] (35)
Needing to return to Ishgard for private matters, she met the man at the Forgotten Knight together with some other familiar faces. The two separated from the group to talk in private and agreed to return to Thanalan the following day together. Odette quickly learned that she had to remain on her toes as the man was clearly trying to get on her nerves every chance he got. However when not being an arrogant pig, he was quite tender and kind to her, and this quality did warm her heart to him. While she may be feeling infatuation towards him, she is aware that he is not the right person for her. She tries to keep their interactions innocent, not wanting to convince herself that more can be of such a relation.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Varriz Relanah]] (??)
Visiting Ul'dah for some down-time, she ran into this Moonkeeper at the restaurant area at the airship landing. A chance meeting but the two seemed to get along quite well despite his teasing and constant compliments which would get her rather embarrassed. He expressed great interest in showing her around Thanalan once he learned that she was a foreigner and she gladly took him up on the offer. His silver tongue and outgoing personality definitely piqued her interest. He would often try to flirt his way into her heart and it would often leave her flustered although flattered, however, unable to respond and reciprocate despite liking the man.

'''Friends'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] (44)
Fellow Highborn Ishgardian she met while attending a meet-up at The Sharlayan Institutional Team of Gridania. After a most pleasant talk, she soon got to join his company as a nurse and healer to the wounded at his behest; unable to turn down a fellow Ishgardian. While finding the man absolutely dashing and the walking epitome of a Highborn gentleman, it also worked against her feelings for the man as she refused to get herself involved with another noble. She remained at his side through thick and thin, truly grateful for his help and seeing him almost as an older brother figure which she missed.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[K'alayah Xiaan]] (??)
The main leader of Aurora Eorzea. K'alayah was always very caring and giving towards the Elezen, including making sure she was safe from her past during her stay at the residence. Odette was always confused by the Sunkeeper woman, as this one always expressed great interest in her, which ventured beyond mere friendship. Perplexed with the natures of flirting and even intimacy, Odette always struggled to keep up with her pace. The two women bonded very closely regardless. Over time however, the advances started to sour the entire atmosphere and Odette left, although still treasuring her friendship with the woman.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Malrinn Nures]] (24)
Odette met this Au Ra at the Sharlayan Institute in the Lavender Beds and the two ladies did get along but it wasn't until two days later where they really got to bond at another outing. Despite their differences, they found lots of common ground and their friendship cemented even further as Malrinn discovered that Odette had never drank in her life and the night took a horrible turn, needing to escort the Elezen back home. While the night ended on a bad note, the chemistry was clear and Odette is very happy to call the woman her friend.

'''Acquaintances'''
:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] (??)
Friendly Moonkeeper fellow who works as a hunter and chef at the Aurora Eorzea. She met him upon her first visit to the establishment and while they haven't spoken much, he always seemed to be very polite and understanding. Eager to learn about all the different races, she would at times ask him about Miqo'te's and he was always glad to offer assistance and explanations. The two grew closer as he even told her of his past and she did appreciate it.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Reyza Blackwater]] (??)
Meeting her at a small outing to the Mists at a restaurant, Odette was truly impressed by this Miqo'te, especially her eloquent and beautiful speech pattern. It quickly became apparent that the feeling was mutual and the two women got to talk quite a lot that night, genuinely enjoying each other's company as they both clearly stuck out from the crowds.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Kaida Higashikaze]] (??)
Foreigner much like herself but from the East, most likely a samurai. While he was very distant and quiet at first, he quickly warmed up to her presence ant the two enjoyed a very lively talk which at some point became a bit too personal for Odette and the man quickly apologized to her. Despite this, she still enjoys his company and is looking forward to meeting more often.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Cesar Boulon]] (??)
A rude Ishgardian researcher and Aether professor whom she ran into at the Atheneum Arcaneum. Definitely not kind or even caring, his demeanor cold and calculating but he did assist her and her family by trying to find a cure for her sick father. Odette appreciated his help even if his methods were cold. Despite being polar opposites, she did find herself respecting the man and would even help him with his research when needed.

'''Enemies'''
:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> NONE

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''History'''</div>===

<center>'''Please note that all information below is common knowledge that Odette may share depending on her relationship with people; however there are still many secrets behind many decisions and those must be learned IC'''</center>

'''The Hole See of Ishgard''' (0-22)

<spoiler>
Odette was born to a Highborn family in Ishgard, the youngest child of two, the older being her brother Clauvort.
She was doted on generously by her parents and especially her brother as the siblings became inseparable. Her early childhood was a free spirited one as she was quite the tomboy, always getting into brawls with other children and wanting to be the focus of her parents, yearning for their affections despite their busy schedules with family matters.

As she grew, family affairs became more apparent as well as her heritage. She got home-schooled and would almost never leave the family residence, much too busy with her studies as well as prohibited. Her merry nature toned down over the years as she was groomed to be the perfect noblewoman. She blossomed into a beautiful woman, a feast for the eyes for any man and woman alike; at all parties all eyes being on her despite wanting to merely blend in. With her social status, her smarts and her looks, she remained modest and easily approachable.
Despite all the years of grooming, she still cherished the little adventuress in her heart, always yearning for more that her family could ever offer her. Clauvort was well aware of her hidden desires and at times he would even let her indulge as he would take her to the woods with him on his hunting trips with his friends.

Their parents didn't take too kindly to their escapades and paid a closer eye to Odette, and decided to put her Atheneum Arcaneum, wanting to offer her some way entertainment while making certain that she retained her dignity and image. It did work for a short while as she learned of Astronomy and she quickly excelled in the arts, able to read the constellations with ease as well as utilize their magicks. Apart from her usual social studies, languages, etiquette and diplomacy, she was also taught to play the piano, harpsichord and the harp; particularly excelling in the latter. Her schedule was kept busy and full, with the intention to not give her ideas nor reasons to rebel while at the same time shaping her into the perfect woman; one that would bring pride and honour to the family.
</spoiler>

'''Cost of Freedom''' (22-24)

<spoiler>
Reaching the age of twenty-two, and of the perfect age, Odette learned from her parents that they had given her hand in marriage to a fellow nobleman of the name Zeauraut Traideux. The news hit her hard and she never recovered from it, dreading the day where the union would take place to a total stranger. Clauvort told her that Zeauraut was a dear friend of his and even vouched for the man, but she would have none of it, crying and yearning for her freedom after so many years of being trapped in a silver cage.
[[File:odetteinishgard.png|500px|right|]]
Adding to her arranged marriage, many other things came to light which didn't sit well with her. The strictness of the nobility, the political games, the silly banquets and word plays at them, plotting, marrying only in between the higher-ups... She had enough of it all. Day in and day out she fell into a deeper depression, neglecting herself and Clauvort decided to act, unable to see his baby sister in such a state. He convinced their parents to let her venture freely around Ishgard as long as in his presence and they allowed it, thus, he would take her out almost on a daily basis. It did help as she got to indulge a bit in her brief freedom, as well as being away from the family residence. It was during their walks together that she was made aware visually of the poor state in which Ishgard was. The Brume in particular hurt her greatly. She was never aware that the social segregation was this evident and it made her feel guilty, as she had no right to complain about her life as she had anything she ever wanted, apart from freedom. She would try to convince herself that it was all in her head, she had no reason to complain, and yet she couldn't help herself. As the day of the planned union loomed closer, her mood swings became worse and worse and she would start considering ways to break it off and stop it. All ideas were absurd if not even dangerous both to herself and her family and she would spend all her free time plotting some way to free herself.

During one of her walks with Clauvort, they ran into a rarely seen group of adventurers from Ul'dah. Slightly shorter statures, darker skin as well as a different language, they instantaneously intrigued Odette and she immediately approached them with Clauvort following suite. The entire group engaged in conversation and they even went to The Forgotten Knight to talk about Eorzea and all the details of the realm which were alien to her. Even her brother enjoyed the talks and as he was distracted by a server woman at the inn, Odette then spoke to the adventurer's in a different tone, begging them to help her. It shocked them at first for her to be so desperate as to trust complete strangers but they understood that she was desperate and they all agreed to assist her. When Clauvort returned to them, the simple talk resumed.

The same night, Odette prepared herself for her escape as she had agreed with the men from Ul'dah. As agreed, one of them came to see her under her window and she threw herself out of it to be caught by him. They then made a run for it and rejoined the rest of the party. She had left no note or indication at all of her whereabouts to her family, leaving them to believe what they willed. The men quickly dressed her like an Ul'dahn to conceal her real identity and they bound her ears back with a sash to make her look like a Hyur. They fetched their chocobos and Odette sat behind one of the men on his as they approached the gates of the Steps of Faith, and the guards let them leave without without questions asked. She was relieved more and more as slowly Ishgard became but a dot in the distance. She was saddened by her immediate departure, particularly feeling it for her brother but she wouldn't risk telling him of her plans as she knew he would've tried to stop her.

Her saviours took her with them to Ul'dah where they assisted her briefly before leaving to continue their journey.
For the first time, she was left alone to deal with things herself, without anyone's help. While it was liberating, fear set in as she was made aware of just how little she knew of the world and how it worked. She stood out immensely in Ul'dah and it was not attention she wanted, terrified that sooner or later she would be found out and her family would come seeking her out. With money to spare, she checked herself in at the local inn where she remained for a few days before venturing out anew.
</spoiler>

'''A Place to Call Home''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:Auroraeorzea.png|500px|left|]]
On one of her walks, she ventured into the Goblet and came across an establishment named Aurora Eorzea, intrigued, she went inside.
There she met [[K'alayah Xiaan]], a Sunkeeper Miqo'te as well as [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]], a Moonkeeper. She had never seen Miqo'tes' from up close and it caught her attention as she would study them from a distance. The two approached her and exchange a few words, explaining that the house belonged to the Sunkeeper as she ran a mercenary service there as well as a restaurant in the lower levels. Odette had never met mercenaries in her life and it was a completely new experience to her. The Miqo'tes' were curious of her whereabouts but she didn't want to say too much and she simply explained that she had left Ishgard. Once the Moonkeeper left, [[K'alayah Xiaan]] was quick to expose the woman, taking notice of her mannerism as well as her manner of speech and her attire. With no reason to hide, Odette confessed to the woman that she had abandoned her past in search of freedom but that she was terrified that her family was searching for her. While her family did not know she had ran away, the possibility of being kidnapped was highly probable.
The Sunkeeper reassured her stating that she was safe within Aurora Eorzea and she allowed her to stay as long as she needed. Odette was truly grateful and she would exchange a few more words with the woman, although clearly sensing that there was more that met the eye. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] appeared particularly interested in the Elezen, often making hints at her beauty as well as engaging in small flirts, which always had Odette blushing and becoming flustered, completely not used to such attention while the Miqo'te found it endearing.

Staying at the establishment, Odette felt much more at ease, especially as she made friends with many of its members which substituted her family for her in a certain way. During one of her rests, she met a new member of the place named [[Nene Kotake]] who was an Au Ra. Odette had never met Au Ra and she would also study the woman closely with genuine interest. She was soft-spoken and said very little, speaking in a third-person view, but she didn't seem to mind. While talking, [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] made and appearance together with [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. Odette admitted to them that she had been doing her utmost to educate herself on Eorzea, including the cultures, races, history and even foods. She then noted that the Moonkeeper's name meant that he was a second born. It surprised him to see someone even make that remark and he opened up a bit about his past, admitting that he had lost his older brother very early on. Odette immediately apologized, not wanting to bring back painful memories at the time but he luckily did not seem to mind.
[[File:Tiamosandodetteexploring.png|500px|right|]]
Next morning, she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and the two talked more about romance and their ideas of partnerships, much to Odette's embarrassment. It was then that Odette learned that the Sunkeeper was a poly-amorous person, a thing which she had never even heard of back in Ishgard. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] expressed explicit interest in the Elezen but Odette definitely was not interested in romance at the time, especially with another woman who was so open about sexual relations. It was much too knew and the memories of having escaped an arranged marriage were too fresh. It was then that some adventurer walked in and Odette, wanting to be a good host, followed the man to greet him downstairs at the restaurant area. His name was [[Tiamos Loren]] and he shocked her great as he spoke Old Elezen to her. It made her very happy but at the same time suspicious. The two engaged in casual conversation but he remained secretive of his own whereabouts, and as did she about her past. However, they did enjoy each others' company and he offered to show her a bit of Thanalan. They walked all the way to the Silver Bazaar where Odette confronted him, demanding to know why he spoke Old Elezen and why he seemed to know so much about Ishgard, suspicious and believing him to be some spy sent to find her by her family. He easily diffused the tensions, reassuring her that he had no knowledge of her or her family, stating that he had no interest in oppressing anyone's will. She was quick to apologize, ashamed of her quick assumptions but he cheered her up, not wanting her to feel bad about it. The two of them talked some more as they observed the sea, something she had never seen in her life back in Ishgard, making her more and more aware of how little she actually knew.

Dawn came anew and Odette ran into [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and he offered to tell her some more about Moonkeepers to help her with her desire to learn more of all the details required to live in Eorzea. The talk quickly shifted into more sensitive waters as talks of his brother reemerged. She was quick to comfort the man, not wanting him to force himself but he did not mind, appreciating her tender words. It was then that another person joined in, that being a Viera named [[Vildola Fyth]]. She had never met or even seen a Viera, but had read a bit about them. The two quickly established lots of common ground, both being foreigners in a new land and needed to adjust. It made Odette very happy to have a friend, one whom understood her perfectly. The Viera also appeared quite content as the two women bonded closely. Odette showed her the library, and there [[Vildola Fyth]] spotted the piano and sat at it, intrigued by the musical instrument as she confessed to always having wanted to learn how to play. Odette was happy to hear that as it was the perfect exchange, she told her that she'd teach her to play the piano in exchange for some basic botany skills. The Viera agreed. Coming back from a walk in the Goblet, she ran into an unknown man back at the establishment, but she remained cordial and soon learned he was [[Taahir Al-Nazar]]. He told her that he was in charge of the navy force belonging to the guild which really impressed her, while at the same time being a merchant from the Thanalan desert. She however refused to open up about her detailed reasons for being part of the guild herself but she did enjoy the casual conversation. He then mentioned of some hot-baths right next door and proposed that they go there to relax and she agreed, quite curious to see them as she had never been to such a place. The hot waters were truly warming and soothing and she enjoyed them greatly, especially with such marvelous company. The two continued talking and it was quickly made apparent that he seemed to like her and he asked her out to dinner. As they finished to bathe, they headed back to Aurora Eorzea for their dinner date, heading downstairs to the restaurant area. While eating and bonding some more, he suggested that she could assist the guild with her healing, assisting perhaps with the sick or injured. It immediately caught her interest and she agreed, only after consulting it with [[K'alayah Xiaan]] beforehand.

Word came from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] that the company was required to assist her in retrieving some artifact. While odd, Odette did join, together with [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and [[Amberlenne Furieaux]]. From outside of the company, [[Tiamos Loren]] and [[Sini'to Shadar]] joined in to assist on the quest. They ventured out into the Thanalan desert and were quickly transported to some sort of castle gates while getting split from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] as she got sucked into some hole and then [[Tiamos Loren]] who was trying to save her. Four of them left, they ventured into the residence and were quickly exposed to some odd childish voice who appeared to be testing them as they were put through a huge ordeal. They found rooms iterated with worms, which disgusted Odette greatly and had her sick to her stomach for the entire time. Some spirits in the courtyard were trying to sell their wares, which consisted of worms, and she avoided them at all cost. There were five immense towers visible from the courtyard and they went into each one, discovering many secrets of the place, among them weird weapons which seemed to suck out the aether out of anyone who held them and more worms. In four towers they found magical objects which disappeared upon touching and then the gates to the fifth tower opened. At some point they found the missing due and they all ventured into the fifth tower where they found some book which [[K'alayah Xiaan]] has been hunting for as well as the origin of the childish voice, a young Miqo'te boy. He seemed amused and wanted to play more with them but the party took the book and departed, noticing that they couldn't even land one hit on the lad. Immediately after the entire ordeal, [[Tiamos Loren]] and Odette got talking by the waters of Forgotten Springs. The conversation at first was about the event and what they went through but during the talk, Odette picked up on a few lines and hints from him, gently suggesting that he wasn't from Eorzea, if even the realm. She quickly blew his cover and seeing no other way, and at the same time not deeming has as a threat or having malicious intent, he confessed to her his origins. He was from a completely different world, one where wyrms were even looked up to and treated as wise creatures, and people followed their words. This surprised Odette and she then explained to him the views on dragons on Eorzea and they were the completely opposite. Hearing the story of this world, he decided to take it upon himself to form a company named The Azure Blades to assist those in need. it surprised her and she questioned him for the reason, as it made no sense for a foreigner to assist them; but he remained adamant. It was quite nice to hear and she gladly offered her help in the matter.

The next day she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and she asked her permission about establishing and infirmary in the guild, to which the Miqo'te agreed gladly. The talk turned a bit darker as they consulted on matters from days prior in the desert, Odette still shaking off the unpleasant feeling. During this talk, the woman confessed about her own corruption within as she revealed her eye being the source; explaining that she was seeking a cure and that the book they had recovered had high chances to help her.
[[File:Sharlayanlibrary.png|500px|left|]]
Days went by and Odette had inspected all the books in the Aurora Eorzea regarding the realm. Boredom set in as well as the nervousness as she did not feel yet very confident in her new home and that was when she heard of a meet-up at the Sharlayan Institute in Gridania. Curious, she decided to pay it a visit, hoping that she might find more resources to educate herself on Eorzea and it's culture. Her friends helped her in teleporting there, leaving her to enjoy the evening on her own as she found the place in the Lavender Beds. She immediately got greeted by a rather obnoxious setting as some mad chocobo was set loose downstairs and was causing havoc. Doing her best to just avoid the ruckus, she settled herself by the bar where she engaged in conversation with an Au Ra and a fellow Ishgardian man. She was truly happy to meet one of her own, although his sharp tongue and witty replies left her rather astounded and speechless most of the time. It was intimidating on many levels and a bit unpleasant to her ears so she shifted away. [[Tiamos Loren]] then appeared and she greeted him warmly. He expressed interest in books regarding Aether manifestation and they both went downstairs to the library to begin their search but were cut off by [[Tiny Blue]]. While odd, the Lalafell was truly endearing and the three of them engaged in conversation, only interrupted as another Elezen made his appearance, apologizing for his intrusion. The group immediately dispersed a bit around the library to not block the way to the man, Odette meanwhile analyzing his appearance as it was rather clear to see that he appeared to be Ishgardian. She greeten him in Old Elezen and it immediately got his interest, also identifying her as kin and the two engaged in talk. He introduced himself as [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], called Corvo by friends. She at first struggle to even use his nickname, but she did her utmost to correct herself despite her slip ups. [[Tiamos Loren]] was quick to assist the man in finding a book regarding astral plains and also regarding the beast tribes located in the Shroud, while Odette kept herself buy by researching books about Eorzea overall. She located one on Eorzean holidays and she went away a bit to have a peaceful read which got interrupted by [[Tiny Blue]] as he jumped onto her desk. A tad annoyed and sated with the book, she returned the book to it's original place when the Elezen man came back downstairs and offered his assistance to her, stating that he had been in Eorzea for over two years. She was elated and truly grateful and he did assist her with all her questions. He then posed her a question, asking if she fancied a walk outside under the stars and she gladly took the man's offer, the two leaving the library to talk more peacefully outside.

As they walked, she felt someone staring at the back of her head and then spotted [[Tiamos Loren]] who appeared to be following them. The Elezen confronted him, inquiring as to the reason for following or if he misunderstood his relationship with Odette, to which she blushed, immediately stating that they weren't a couple. She reassured the Huyr that they were only going for a walk and after much debate he conceded and left them and [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] then invited him together with Odette to some time come by his company for a drink. As the Hyur left them, the two Elezen continued their walk in the Lavender Beds, enjoying the night breeze and sky as the stars shone upon them. They reach an lavender field near the waters and the man then turned to her, offering his hand, asking if she perhaps wished to retreat somewhere more private. She did not mind either way, enjoying the company quite a lot, especially as he was very helpful and truly a gentleman which was a nice change from what she saw lately from the opposite gender. For a moment she felt herself loosing grip on reality as he talked but she snapped back as he called her and they continued their walk; genuinely enjoying her time spent with the man as they talked through the night.
[[File:mistouting.png|500px|right|]]
Enjoying her last outing to the library, Odette wanted to mingle some more, seeing it also as a good way to learn the customs and cultures on Eorzea. And so, she ventured to the Mists where there was a dinning event at a restaurant there, including some side entertainment. She found the place without any complications and once inside, she ran into an old face, [[Malrinn Nures]], a lady she had met two days prior at the Sharlayan Institute. The woman appeared quite happy to see her and she sat opposite her. Odette met her talking companion, a Miqo'te lady named [[Reyza Blackwater]] who had one of the most eloquent and beautiful voices and phrasing she had ever heard. The feeling seemed to be mutual as the Miqo'te also expressed curiosity about Odette's whereabouts as it was clear from a glance that she stood out from the crowd in both looks and mannerisms and Odette explained that she hailed from the Holy See of Ishgard, which definitely got the Miqo'te's interest. They talked a little bit about Ishgard and then the talk shifted to more casual matters. On stage, suddenly, a marriage was announced and everyone applauded and congratulated the couple which was to be wed; Odette day dreaming a bit, voicing that she found it romantic to be married. [[Malrinn Nures]] was quick to counter that, clearly being rather negative and she explained that she had broken off with her partner the same day. Odette immediately felt guilty and sat beside her, giving her a side hug, wanting to cheer her up at least a bit. The evening went by casually, and Odette met another Miqo'te by the name of [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. While they did not talk much at all, the moment he mentioned [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] he got her attention and he asked her if she knew him, to which she nodded. He expressed immediate concern over this acquaintance, but she appeared adamant about her trust in the fellow Ishgardian, going as far as stating that she found him dashing and a true gentleman. It relieved the man luckily and the topic was dropped. One of the entertainer's at the establishment started seeking volunteers to go on stage but everyone rejected. [[Malrinn Nures]] joked that she could make a drinking competition, to which Odette commented that she had never drunk in her life. The Au Ra immediately ordered a bottle of red. A prayer was offered to Halone in preparation as the bottle was uncorked. The first few sips were agonizing, finding the flavour rather revolting and much too overpowering but as she kept going, it dulled her senses, taste buds included and she started to drink which amazing speed. The Au Ra had a most jolly time watching the Elezen down almost an entire bottle on her own in one go. Odette, unused to the effects, struggled to discern her surroundings but still did her best to remain a lady, deeming it best to return home. Getting up, the room started to spin and she struggled to make her way upstairs. [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] both assisted her, asking where she leaved. The Goblet was quite far and they did not want to risk teleportation with someone in her state, and so they decided to leave her in Lominsa at the Drowning Wench.
Odette woke up the next day, sick to the stomach and with no will to live, her very first hang over took over her body. She had no idea where she was or what had even happened, her last memory being talking with the girls back at the table in the Mist. After emptying the contents of her stomach multiple times, she did come across a note left by her friend, where she explained what had happened as well as where she was. She was most relieved to find that piece of information although the guilt was immense. She had no desire to drink to a stupor and it did taint her image. She vowed to never drink again.

Still dazed but intent on returning home, Odette teleported back to the Goblet however she mistook wards and ended up in the wrong one. Wandering lost, she came across a house with a familiar name 'Raven's Heart'. It immediately reminded her of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] and as she inspected the property, she found him in the front yard. He seemed shocked to see her there but pleased and the two exchanged a few pleasantries before heading inside. He asked her how come she found the place and she admitted it was pure coincidence. The man proceeded to explain the entire point of the Raven's Heart, what they did and what were their goals, including mentioning that they had ties to Ishgard which did rub her the wrong way a bit, concerned for her safety but she did not voice it. He then gave her some recruitment papers which shocked her but he kindly coerced her into it, requesting her assistance as a fellow Ishgardian and friend. Odette put some thought into the matter and she was definitely happy to find a purpose as it would help her in integrating with people in Eorzea as well as perhaps make a difference. She signed the papers but under the condition that her family name be left out if she were ever to be mentioned to any Ishgardians. He did not seem to mind and the deal was sealed. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] gave her a tour of the place and she then ran into [[Vildola Fyth]] who was looking for her. The man learned that the Viera was also an outsider and a fellow healer and so he also accepted her as Odette's help as they quickly decided that Odette would assist in the infirmary. Once he left, the two ladies got talking, expressing their shared concerned over Aurora Eorzea and the two agreed that it was not the place for them.

Odette returned to Aurora Eorzea and wrote them a letter, mostly addressed to [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. She thanked her and everyone else at the house for their kindness, but also expressing that she felt the need to move elsewhere, finding herself an ill fit in their current company. While in reality it was true, most of all she simply wanted to draw a clear line and stop the sexual advancements. She left them a box of Ishgardian bonbons and left, explaining that she was to leave together with [[Vildola Fyth]] but that they would remain in touch.
[[File:ravensheartoutside.png|500px|left|]]
She returned to Raven's Heart with the Viera, looking forward to making herself useful so she went to the infirmary to inspect their stock and possibly add more to it. As her friend left, Odette also went out to stock up on a few medical supplies. Upon her return, she met many new faces, among them [[Arthain Garon]]. He convinced her to go introduce herself to the others and so she did, meeting a few other members of the place, among them she met [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. He did mention her drunkenness from the other day and she glared for once, quickly retreating back outside; far too ashamed of the event to want it mentioned. Outside she ran into [[Arthain Garon]] and the two got to know each other very well, finding they had a long in common. He seemed quite happy to see her not being scared of him, although the reason was unknown to her for such an assumption. She gladly observed him practicing his magicks when they got interrupted by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. The Elezen greeted them and while talking mentioned the Au Ra's brother, which made the man storm off back inside. Odette was absolutely confused but the Elezen reassured her it was nothing she said. The two exchanged a few warm words before he took his leave and she rejoined the others inside. There, she ran again into the Au Ra man who apparently had broken his finger. Together with [[Edgar Wyndham]], a man she had also met back at the Sharlayan Library, they made their way with him to the infirmary to assist him. They all then proceeded to explore the house as it appeared some rooms were brand new. It was then that [[Edgar Wyndham]] suddenly proposed a history lesson to them out of nowhere but the Au Ra declined, retreating for the night, thus Odette gladly took it upon herself to listen. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] joined on the lesson about Thanalan history but Odette did not last long, feeling much too exhausted and so she retreated for the night.

The next morning, while browsing the library for books on Thanalan history, wanting to better herself especially after the lesson from the day before. As she found a book, two people also were residing in the library at the time; a man named [[Kaida Higashikaze]] and a petite Au Ra lady named [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. The woman seemed to walk on pins and needles, seeming nervous all the time. Odette exchanged a few kind words with her although the man remained relatively silent until the Au Ra left them and Odette tried her best to engage in conversation with him. It took some time and patience to get the man talking but once he did, the conversation was one of the best she had ever had. He expressed interest in her wanting to learn more as well as her culture, them comparing each others' heights among other things and engaging in friendly banter. The talk took a turn as he asked her of her opinion of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. She explained that she found him to be a good man, the true ideal of an Ishgardian nobleman. [[Kaida Higashikaze]] then asked if he had tried to bed her. Odette's mind exploded at the insinuation, immediately countering that and explaining her reasons for being in Eorzea, which defended the Highborn man. He appeared understanding, but he did tease her a bit more, amused by her blush and flustered nature. It took her some time to settle down but he was definitely respectful, but at the same time he remained playful and flirtatious even. He would ask her of what she wanted in life as she seemed to be a pure bookworm, asking her even of romance as she admitted to reading leisure romances. She admitted to having a great interest in such books but that in real life she had not the chance. In revenge, she asked him the same. He did not mind her question nor her curiosity and he explained that he was not taught in romance nor courtship and that it all seemed daunting to him. Odette comforted him and they would even start to joke around, wondering who would be first to find the right person for them.
[[File:VarrizandOdette.png|500px|right|]]
Wanting some time for herself and away from books for once, Odette ventured to Ul'dah where she decided to go to the airship landing as it was a peaceful area when compared to the bustling streets of the city. There, she met a certain Moonkeeper named [[Varriz Relanah]] who was the first to engaged in conversation with her. It took her by surprise but she wasn't one to turn down a nice talk, especially if it worked in her favour to adapt and mingle with people. The two sat down at a table and continued to talk into late hours of the night, not even noticing the time pass. He quickly figured out her origins, if not even only due to her looks but so did her accent and her tales give her away. She quite enjoyed the talk, learning that he was a travelling merchant and he was there to greet freshly arrived people in Ul'dah, while at the same time trying to sell them his wares. While shrewd, she did not see it as a fault but more a smart way to benefit. It relieved him to know that she did not think any lesser of him. Despite the pleasant exchange, she did not fully open up about her past as he was still a stranger and she could not trust anyone, and so she did not reveal her family name. In between the discussions, he would throw in compliments as well as more spicy topics which each time sent her head for a spin, going silent and unable to respond until she calmed down. No matter how often it happened with him or in the past, it was something she would still struggle with as it always got her embarrassed. She told him of her issues on the more intimate topics, explaining her past occurrences with [[K'alayah Xiann]] and it left him rather shocked, perhaps then understanding why she seemed to have her guard up at times. They talked of what her desires might have been and she openly stated that she had none, apart from her freedom which she had already attained but now that she had it, she had no idea what to do with it. It was then that he offered to help her use that newly found freedom, suggesting to show her around Ul'dah as well as Thanalan. She was truly content to receive such an offer and she immediately agreed and the two exchanged linkshell frequencies to remain in touch. As the hour got late, Odette decided it was best to return home to the Goblet, fearing that [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] might get worried as she wasn't one to remain away for long. She excused herself and bid the man farewell and the two parted ways.
</spoiler>

'''Facing the Past''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:tiamosandodetterh.png|500px|right|]]
Days went by and Odette ever so slowly would adapt to her new life in Thanalan, still struggling but otherwise making progress. With the gil she brought with herself from Ishgard, she put it forth to purchase an apartment in the Goblet, mind set to make her home in Eorzea. She would move between her new home and the new company, finding a comfortable routine in the coming days and it did bring a sense of much needed relief to find stability. On one of her ventures to Ul'dah, she ran into [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Quicksand and they quickly caught up with one another. He appeared to be busy as ever, and it was somehow nice to hear that he was never changing. He then asked her in turn, and her face said it all. While content, she admitted that she had word that her father was ill and that it did not seem to be some mere cold. She explained that she was planning to head to Ishgard to see what she could learn of his state while still keeping her cover. He offered lots of advice and she truly appreciated it, even wanting to go there to research her acquired information but that she declined, stating that she wanted to go herself and see it with her own eyes. He did not pressurize, but remained concerned for her safety. Changing topic, she told him that she joined Sir [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] company which surprised him although hearing her opinion of the man, he felt a bit guilty for judging him as quickly as he had. He expressed on seeing this place as he did get an open invitation from the man and Odette immediately offered to take him there, adding that she also had recently purchased an apartment in the area if he also wanted to see it. The two of them made their way to the Goblet, Odette proud to actually have memorized the way despite being an outsider. She showed him the company house from the inside and he expressed concerned over the relics which lay around, completely unguarded. She agreed and was fine with delivering the concern to [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but [[Tiamos Loren]] said he would do it, as the concern was his to begin with. She showed him the downstairs area, explaining the origin of the books and he found the collection quite impressive. Odette then proposed to him that they move to her apartment as it was also in the area, and so they did, reaching the apartment building within a few moments. The building seemed almost abandoned as very few tenants lived in it, but it did not bother her one bit, quite enjoying the quiet. It also was a good point as it meant she could play her piano without annoying her neighbors. Once inside, they engaged in more friendly talks, finding more and more in common even among the little things. [[Tiamos Loren]] would at times try to pat her back but each time she stiffened up and he immediately apologized for the lack of personal space but she quickly explained herself, simply saying that she wasn't used to any intimate touches other than from family members. It did calm him down. She then mentioned his offered help regarding Ishgard, asking him if he would mind to assist her and he gladly took up the request. After a few more hours of casual talks, the two split ways as he decided to venture to Ishgard as soon as possible while she would join him up a day later on.

The coming day, Odette made her way towards Ishgard via chocobo. She was in no hurry and she did enjoy the trip itself to get there. Once before the Steps of Faith, she had to think up a way to enter the city, aware that she hadn’t really put much thought into it. She could see the guards stopping and questioning visitors, regardless of rank or race and it got her worried. Getting off her chocobo and with reigns in her hand, she made her way towards the guards calmly and once right in front of them, she gave the chocobo a hard smack to its rear, causing it to go into a frenzy as it rushed into the guards, distracting them instantly. Among the ruckus, she ran inside the city, slipping past the guards and any other suspicious eyes.
Once inside the city, she spent a good few hours walking the streets, indulging in the nostalgia and the memories of her old home. While she did not support her family, she did love Ishgard and if it were not for her family, she would have stayed. Not wanting to arouse suspicions, she avoid interacting with people, wanting to hear any news about her family anonymously, ideally as a passerby. Unfortunately, it did not help at all. The only news she heard was that her father was stepping down as head of the household, giving the leadership to her brother Clauvort. Disheartened, she continued walking the streets in hopes of getting a better lead and that was when she found [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Jewelled Crozier. He was shocked to see her there and clearly he was not approving of her presence but she stood her ground and the two moved to a more secluded place to speak at ease without prying eyes. He asked her if she found out anything and she did share the little bit she learned. It confirmed what he also managed to find out but it got them nowhere. The brainstorming started as the man wanted to somehow meet her brother to ask him about the state of the family, ideally by luring him out. Odette had no idea how to achieve this as his hunting trips were common but irregular and they were back to square one. She even started to debate showing herself to her family but [[Tiamos Loren]] adamantly prohibited her. While ashamed of her idea, she did come up with a better one, informing him that her brother’s best friend went every day to Saint Reymanaud's Cathedral and that for certain he would know everything. He agreed and the two of them made their way to the Cathedral. Once inside, Odette described the man to her friend as best as she could, stating that she had no idea of his looks but she knew his family’s emblem as well as his name. Luck on their side, at one of the benches, there was a man seated with said emblem on his cape. [[Tiamos Loren]] told Odette to stay out of sight while he did the talking although she seemed willing to immediately back out of the plan. He snapped at her, criticizing her for having no back bone, telling her to stand her ground and to go through with it. While harsh, it worked and she hid behind the pillars of the cathedral, eavesdropping from a safe distance even if the man had no idea how she looked like. Once the sermon ended, [[Tiamos Loren]] approached the man, requesting to speak to Zeauraut Traideux. The man clearly had no love for outsiders but he granted him the audience once they stepped outside the cathedral. The Highborn immediately introduced himself as Zeauraut Traideux, heir to the Traideux House. The Midlander introduced himself as well and the two engaged in conversation. Zeauraut was a sharp man and he did not buy anything the man was telling him until he spoke of the Dragonsong War. He lied saying that he was a good friend of House Veaureaux but that ever since the war, the house cut all ties with him and he desires to know what is happening with it. Zeauraut, while not fully convinced, he did tell him that the entire house has been in chaos after the disappearance of Mademoiselle Odette. [[Tiamos Loren]] knew the overall picture of her departure but he never knew the details and it caught him off guard. The Highborn explained to him that simply one night she woman disappeared into thin air, the family suspecting that she was kidnapped for some ransom but no one ever came forth demanding money. They did send scouts to try and locate her but they found nothing, slowly beginning to suspect that she had been killed. The Midlander was not aware of the details and it got him asking for the reason for this disappearance, aware that she was to wed a man before she was gone. Zeauraut’s eyes grew severe at those words as he stated that he was the man she was to marry. [[Tiamos Loren]] had no idea that the man he was speaking to was Odette’s fiancée, however, speaking to him and learning how he was, he could not fault her for leaving. Zeauraut added that now the Lord of the house, Asoix, is passing the leadership to his son, Clauvort due to health issues and the Midlander immediately offered his help in healing the man but the Elezen refused, voicing that the family did not wish to be involved with any outsiders and that most likely it was why he was cast away to begin with. [[Tiamos Loren]] agreed, backing down and the two man parted ways after a few more words, among them the Highborn telling him that his reputation in the family’s eyes could be restored if he were to know anything about Odette. Once the Highborn was away from earshot, Odette came out of hiding, moving towards her friend telling him that most likely this explained to him why she no longer resided in Ishgard.
[[File:Fireplacetogether.png|500px|left|]]
He definitely understood her perfectly, drained by that conversation with the arrogant noble. Odette, finally after months, she felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders as her eyes became glossy from joy, needing a moment to calm herself as she closed her eyes. He took her hand into his, content to see her relieved and for once she did not flinch at the touch. Quite on the contrary, she returned it by giving his hand a squeeze. Happy to see her in such state, he said they should return home but she stopped him, asking for just one more day in Ishgard as she was still homesick and she wanted to enjoy it some more, adding that she had a craving for Ishgardian tea. He laughed but agreed and the two of them went to the Forgotten Knight. As they awaited their tea, Odette would warm up her frozen hands by the fireplace, joking that she had gotten spoiled by Thanalan weather. [[Tiamos Loren]] joined her by the fire and they got talking on a deeper level. She expressed her undying gratitude to him, calling him her guardian angel as he was always there for her no matter what and he never wanted anything in exchange. He explained that he always sought to do good no matter what, which is what he did all the time until he changed places, clearly suggesting that he wasn’t going to stay in Eorzea. It saddened her and she admitted that she did not wish to see him gone to which he replied that she would be long gone by the time he would leave. It shocked her to hear that as Elezen were one of the longest living races and it made no sense to her but she decided not to ask further. Instead, she pitied him, saying that it had to be hard to live on while loved ones grew old and withered away. He agreed and it was evident it hurt him as the man would begin to shed tears. She was quick to comfort him, hands moving to his shoulders, saying that she did treasure their friendship to matter if it was only a blink for him. He reassured her that she was not a blink to him, saying that she shone just as brightly as the other stars in his sky. It took her aback but she appreciated his words greatly. During this heartfelt conversation, he did say that he would not mind if she wanted to offer him more than just mere friendship. This statement hit her hard as she had never looked at him, or anyone for that matter, in a romantic way and it was a novelty to her. He did not pressure her, saying it was her decision but he was patient and willing to wait. He had always been anything but kind and supportive of her and she truly valued their friendship, but actually perceiving the man as a romantic interest was not easy but she wasn’t opposed to the idea, willing to open her mind and perhaps try a different approach. The two spent the rest of the evening sat by the fire, sat closely together as they both relaxed after the long and eventful day.

The next day, Odette did ask him to return home first as she did not want to arouse suspicions at the gates when leaving the city. She arrived alone and so did he; seeing them together could arouse suspicions. Especially if Zeauraut could be observing him without their knowledge. Although not content with the idea, he agreed and departed the city, leaving Odette alone to enjoy her one day at home. As Odette strolled down the streets of Ishgard alone, she felt nostalgic and perhaps a bit home sick, but she did enjoy the walk, taking in the sights and feeling like a child anew. Wanting to somehow assist her family, she decided to have a look at the Atheneum Arcaneum and check if anyone knew anything more there. Luckily, no one recognized her but many faces were familiar to her, all apart from one. A lone man sat by the table, seemingly sucked in completely by a book he had laying before him. She took advantage of the fact that he was a stranger, aware that he would not recognize her identity. He ignored her completely but it was evident he knew something of the state of her father and she demanded to know. As he kept his answers brief and cold, she lost her nerves and gave away her name to the man, wanting to justify the reason why she wanted and needed to know the current state of her father. The man definitely did not appreciate the interruption and instead, he asked her how much she knew of aether manipulation. The query came as a shock but she confessed that she studied the arcane and so he put her to work with a book, asking her to copy all the lines referring to ice elemental aether. Odette has no words but feeling absolutely defeated she obliged and did as he instructed, transcribing the text. Once done, she gave it back to him and then he finally confessed that he was hired to assist in curing her father and that was what he was working on currently. It opened her eyes greatly and she immediately felt horrible for her reaction from before. She apologized to him and he added that her father was safe, informing her that he was going to get better. Ecstatic, she thanked him and asked for his name and he introduced himself as [[Cesar Boulon]]. Relieved, Odette left the place and her feet brought her before the Forgotten Knight again and while she pondered whether to go in or not, she spotted a familiar and very unexpected face sitting by the fountain, immediately recognizing [[Sini'to Shadar]] after the events at the Sagolii Desert. The two exchanged a few words when man then spoke to them, making fun of Miqo'te behinds. Odette held back a laughter but as the two men continued their discussion, she couldn't hold back no more and burst into merry laughter. After some odd tug-o-war, they all went inside the Forgotten Knight to get away from the cold. Once inside, the Elezen man introduced himself as [[Valentin Vulaire]] and Odette introduced herself, leaving the last name out, and also her Miqo'te friend. [[Sini'to Shadar]] offered to get them all drinks and he soon came back with a large teapot and a few cups. As they all talked, enjoying the warmth compared to the freezing cold outside, another familiar face appeared, [[Maetiwyb Abylwaen]]. Odette greeted her warmly and urged her to join them at the table. She offered her cup to the woman, wanting to be cordial, and went over to the bar area to get herself a new one and there she met [[Simeon Sibaruse]], a fellow Highborn. While not very chatty, she invited him to join their table and he gladly obliged. His attention got quickly snatched by [[Sini'to Shadar]] as the two would engage in deep theology talks about Halone as well as the reasons behind the Miqo'te's decision to become a priest of the Fury. The discussion was rather hard and Odette merely listened, not wanting to intervene as they both appeared rather passionate about their beliefs. Odette went outside, cup in hand, wanting to check the weather. She slipped her gloves and hat back on and upon opening the door, she was still met with snow. She was about to go back inside but then [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to have followed her, so she stayed and they two exchanged a few words. He was quick to annoy her as he slid her hat over her eyes, and she decided to put it away, feeling that he would only do it again. Among the talk, he asked her why she no longer seemed to live in Ishgard, as she was definitely a Highborn; an element which was evident at mere glance. She wasn't about to talk openly about it on the streets of said city, and with a stranger, although he made it quite clear that he had no interest whatsoever of causing her issues. Putting her hat back on, she asked him to follow her and they moved to the walls of the Brume. With no one there, they could talk freely. She didn't go into the details but she did mention that she left her family for private matters, but that she came back because she heard her father was ill. But she was unable to approach the mansion, aware that the guards would recognize her immediately and that would've been a big problem. He seemed to feel for her and even offered assistance but she thanked him, aware that nothing could be done. Despite his kind-nature, he seemed to have some need to annoy people, or perhaps just her. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would get much too close to her, alarm bells going off in her head as he'd toy around with her, his fingers tracing along her chin and being dangerously close but she stood her ground. It got her absolutely flustered and he appeared to enjoy seeing her in such torment. Between the horrible teasing and earning a nickname 'petal' from him, he mentioned that he too was seeking to return to Thanalan so the two of them agreed to return together the following morning.
[[File:Valandodettemeet.png|500px|right|]]
Morning came and as agreed, she met with [[Valentin Vulaire]], the two heading towards the chocobo stables where they got a chocobo to share. They decided to have her take the lead and that they's switch halfway. All the time she could hear some loud metal clanking in his bag and when she asked him, he wouldn't answer, letting her guess but no matter what she said, it did not seem to be it. As they climbed onto the bird and made their way towards The Steps of Faith, Odette's enthusiasm dissipated and she explained to the man, recalling the night prior, that the guards cannot know who she really is. He just pat her shoulder, telling her t leave it to him. Sighing, she had little choice and agreed and they stepped forth. Two guards stopped them, one checking the chocobo while the other asked for their identities as well as their reason for leaving. [[Valentin Vulaire]] was quick to explain, stating that they were a married couple, presenting Odette as Odessa, and then he even recognized the guard, calling him Henry. Odette remained absolutely silent and shocked, not expecting that excuse, but it was a very good one she had to admit. Her 'husband' and Henry talked away, the guard asking him if he just got married to which he nodded, hugging Odette from behind to show the little affections that couples would share. She wanted nothing more than to slap him but she played along, remaining silent. The guard was quick to let them go and once they were at a safe distance, she did question [[Valentin Vulaire]]'s relationship with the guard. He explained that they used to study together but that he deemed the guy an imbecile. During the ride across Coerthas, he would tease her here and there and she somehow managed to survive that as eventually his focus turned elsewhere, to some sort of bronze statue he was carrying with him. As they reached the Shroud, out of nowhere he seemed to get some idea about the statue and in the fervor of the moment, he kissed her cheek, hopping off the chocobo to run to a nearby pond. She was absolutely perplexed and she parked the bird, quickly following him in worry. As she observed, he first dipped the statue into the water as it almost froze around him. He noticed it did no good so he took out a pan from his bag and then placed the statue in it before setting it on fire. Odette just gawked absolutely speechless and confused by the entire scene but she did not interfere. The statue changed appearance into that of Thal, the ruler of the underworld. The Elezen then explained that he was investigation a cult which was interested in summoning primals and that this statue was a thing of theirs. As he would try to pick up the statue, he burned himself a bit so Odette scooted the figurine into the cold watered with her boot, getting it out only once it had cooled down sufficiently. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would pat her head, perhaps thankful, while at the same time scratching at his bear, clearly annoyed by it. She chuckled and handed him a small pair of scissors and a pocket mirror of hers, and more jokes and teasing ensued as he tended to himself, later gluing himself to her and kissing her neck. When asked what he was doing, he simply stated that he was annoying her. He returned the scissors and mirror to her, mounting the chocobo as she would sit behind him, making certain to not fall off wrapping her arms around him. She was quick to doze off, lulled by his humming and the swaying of the bird as it ran across the forest. She came to once they reached Thanalan and she noticed a cut upon his cheek. Using her magicks, she healed the cut, content to be of some sort of help at least once. The teasing resumed regardless and she had to do her best to survive it until they would reach Ul'dah.

Odette learned that [[Arthain Garon]] was meant to duel at the Lynx one evening and she made it a must to go see him fight, even if brawls were not her thing or anything involving violence. Inside the Lynx, she ran into [[Malrinn Nures]] and the two ladies immediately caught up with each other and sat together while the fights went on. The first fight went well although Odette found herself looking away all the time, unable to take the severity and brutality of it which made her friend laugh quite a bit, suggesting that maybe a glass of wine would help. She immediately rejected it, and the Au Ra laughed, saying that it was fine since she too was trying to drink much less lately. As the first round came to a close, the girls went to the bar to get themselves something to drink. Just as her friend had suggested, Odette agreed to have a glass of wine to just loosen up and survive the barbaric fighting. [[Malrinn Nures]] also broke her promise of not drinking to join Odette on the endeavor and they returned to the arena to observe. [[Arthain Garon]]'s turn was up and Odette would lose herself as she drank her glass, cheering enthusiastically and with fervor for her friend. That was when behind her [[Valentin Vulaire]] appeared, stating that she was drunk bluntly. She fought back, not taking such an insult. [[Malrinn Nures]] joined on the talk, recognizing the man from nights prior as he seemed to be wooing some huntress, a statement he did not deny. It somehow soured Odette's mood and she remained distant for the rest of the evening. She tried to focus on the fight but unfortunately [[Arthain Garon]] lost. Regardless, she congratulated him on a job well done and as the final round started, she slipped outside to have a brief respite from the crowded place. Finally outside to enjoy some fresh air, the solitude was short-lived as [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to follow her, although it appeared to be mere coincidence. As they were alone again, she proposed they go for a walk as the night was still young and the weather was lovely. As they walked about the Goblet, she brought him to one of her favourite spots to stargaze although he expressed little interest in the area, but he did state that the stars were almost as beautiful as her. It surprised her each time he would be nice but she did love it. She'd ask him why he would be rude all the time and then have moments of actually being pleasant, but he just toyed with her and never replied to it. She would walk around, pacing, losing her footing as the slight tipsiness tugged at her, mumbling and grumbling under her nose. He bluntly stated that she was drunk and that she needed to sit but she ignored him. He proceeded to just pick her up and he moved to a set of benches, sitting her between his legs. He was a big mystery to her and it was absolutely annoying and yet oddly enticing. As he held her in his arms, he asked her if this was like one of those romance stories where the princess fell for a commoner. She countered that, stating that she was no princess and that neither was he some commoner. He still pressed his observation, asking if she did see this as an infatuation. She did not admit it, but deep down she knew that she did have a crush on the man despite his horrible nature; like a magnet it pulled at her. Remaining a gentleman, he asked her for a kiss and the two embraced. It was her first one. It was bitter-sweet as she couldn't believe to have fallen for such a bad character but it was beyond her. The kiss was short as she forgot to breathe and she broke it, gasping for air. He only laughed and soon the two parted ways as he needed to tend to his tasks. That was when Odette's linkpearl rang and she picked up, recognizing [[Malrinn Nures]]'s voice and the two girls talked, agreeing to meet up at Odette's apartment. Once there, Odette hosted her guest with some tea and biscuits and the Au Ra asked her what had happened since she had disappeared during the duel night. Odette did not admit to being intimate but she did say that she and [[Valentin Vulaire]] had a moment and that she did feel attracted to him. This worried her friend and she warned her that she did not see the man as a trustworthy person, foreseeing that following that path would only lead to heartbreak. Odette agreed, fully aware of this fact and she did want to try to somehow tone down the advances for her own good.
</spoiler>

'''Matters of the Heart''' (24)

<spoiler>
Wanting to relax a bit, Odette went to the Quicksand where she met [[Ferroux Quilmont]], a fellow Ishgardian Highborn. While skeptical at first, his genuine and adorable nature won her over easily and they sat together at a table, soon joined by a Lalafell named [[Pishrero Junerero]]. They learned that he was a businessman and owner of [https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900668170/ June's Crafts & Arms]. Odette introduced herself to both but left out her family name. The Elezen man also introduced himself, adding that he worked for the Garlond Ironworks back in Ishgard, assisting with the rebuilding of the city. The businessman immediately saw an opportunity there and offered to work together with the man, offering to write a letter to his superiors as a business venture. They all went to his company's headquarters in the Goblet where [[Pishrero Junerero]] filled out the paperwork and then handed it to the young lad. After business came pleasure and he gave the two Elezen a tour of the establishment. Their interest biggest at the top floor as it seemed to be an extravagant dinning area. Odette was truly amazed at the looks of it and the Lalafell was pleased at the feedback, explaining that the credit went to his employee [[Rorosa Rosa]]. Both Elezen took their leave however as they had other items to tend to, but both willing and intent on returning to make use of the place. As Odette returned to her company in the Goblet, she ran into some shenanigans before the household. She chose to ignore it, hearing some Miqo'te calling her a hot blonde but [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] immediately snapped back at the person, threatening to skewer them with his sword if they were to call his kinsman as such. Not wanting to get involved in the talk, she retreated silently to her apartment for the evening.
[[File:pishieandferroux.png|500px|left|]]
With All Saints' Wake around the corner, Odette found advertisements about a costume party at the Coeurl Consortium located in the Mists. While far, she knew that [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Reyza Blackwater]] were planning to go, and wanting to meet with her friends, she decided to go too. She assembled a simply costume of an angel, which she believed suited her best. Arriving at the location, she ran into [[Valentin Vulaire]] who was dressed as the total opposite, a devil. The two of them laughed at the polar opposites and entered the establishment together. The place was packed but Odette did get to meet a few people, among them [[Miraenne Nineux]], a fellow Ishgardian. She did meet her friends and the entire evening was spent with them. As the costume contest was announced, Odette started to debate whether to participate or not and taking into account [[Valentin Vulaire]] 's costume, she was willing to even enter as a duet. She asked him and he seemed to have no issues in joining her. Onstage she made the speech for them while he stood beside her looking intimidating but the prize went to another man. The Elezen man did not seem too content with it but Odette managed to soften it up and they all went back to mingling. While she enjoyed a chat with her friends, he seemed intent on drawing [[Malrinn Nures]] who was dressed as an appealing succubus. It did not sit with Odette too well especially when she remembered a few nights prior when they had kissed. While it wasn't jealousy, it was just a feeling of uncertainty towards the man. Once he left the place, Odette talked to [[Malrinn Nures]] and she offered her some good advice as well as comfort. The Au Ra would tease and flirt with Odette for the entire evening, playing up on her succubus costume. At first Odette had no idea how to react to it but eventually as she relaxed she played along, discovering tht the girl seemed to enjoy when she spoke Old Elezen so she allowed her to indulge in it. The rest of the evening was spent in good company before she returned to the Goblet for a good night's sleep, left to ponder about the future of her relations.

The next day while browsing books back at Raven's Heart, she ran into [[Hayase Daiuzu]] who as always was her timid and reserved self, although the girl expressed interest in Ishgard. She asked Odette if she could tell her about it and she most gladly obliged. The two sat down and Odette immediately got bombarded by the questions, struggling to answer any of them due to the speed at which they were thrown at her. The girl clearly had not a single idea of the place or even the Dragonsong War but Odette did not mind, explaining calmly whatever the girl desired. The Au Ra explained that she had something she wanted fixed and asked her if anyone in Ishgard could and that was when she recalled the Skysteel Factory. The girl showed her a weapon, looking alike to a gun but also a blade. She had never seen anything of the like but inspecting the mechanism, it did look alike to something that the Skysteel Factory could assist with. However, Odette warned the girl that Ishgard would most probably not even let her in considering her looks and how similar she was to a dragon. The reason seemed to completely fly over her head and Odette didn't delve into the topic further, but then [[Hayase Daiuzu]] seemed to want to have Odette take care of the matter. Odette immediately protested, telling her that she could not return to Ishgard but didn't explain why. That was when the Au Ra spotted [[Vildola Fyth]] by the stairs and immediately branded her food, wanting to eat some rabbit. Odette panicked and immediately picked the Au Ra up, using her height as an advantage, stopping her from eating her friend. The girl protested and kicked until [[Haru Rumei]] appeared and demanded an explanation. The Au Ra gave in and just left the group while Odette was left alone to explain what had happened with [[Vildola Fyth]] remaining on edge and clearly panicked. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] came down the stairs and stopped as he spotted the Viera, demanding that she handed in her staff but it only put the woman more on edge, refusing to give in while seeming to look like a trapped animal. [[Haru Rumei]] joined the talk but Odette decided to remain put, not wanting to add more pressure but when she heard her friend sob, she immediately ran to her side, asking her fellow Highborn man for allowance to handle the matter on her own. He allowed it and retreated together with the Au Ra, settling on the couches downstairs. Odette did her best to calm down her friend but the Viera had none of it, immediately running outside, leaving Odette speechless and guessing. Confused, she joined the other two downstairs, sitting down silently until [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] approached her and would start to touch her face, clearly interested in her. While in the past she brushed it off, this time she did understand perfectly the intentions behind his words and she wanted to just get swallowed by the couch. He was intimidating and at the same time she did fear him at a certain level as he was pro-Ishgardian. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] saw this and she just wanted to die of embarrassment, however she jumped up when he mentioned passing a Viera on the streets. Knowing in what direction she went, Odette was intent on finding her friend. The Highborn immediately granted her the leave, however he did say he was wounded that he did not get to spend as much time with her as he wanted, requesting them to spend some time together soon. She did not deny him this and agreed before venturing out. She was unable to find [[Vildola Fyth]] despite going the path that the Miqo'te had told her where he had seen the Viera. Still searching but to no avail, she was soon united again with the Miqo'te, as it seemed he had followed her to help her in the search. While skeptical and not generally enjoying his company, she did take his offer and they would search together. Thanks to his acute sense of smell, they soon found the Viera hiding away in a tunnel in the Goblet. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] decided to go around and block off the other exit to prevent the woman from escaping. Taking a few breaths, Odette stepped into the tunnel, deciding not to sneak up on her friend as it would only startle her further and make her run away, heels clicking with each step she took while she called her name carried by the echo. [[Vildola Fyth]] definitely heard her and was about to take off running but hearing Odette's calm tone she did remain and broke down crying on the ground. Odette sat beside her, arms around the poor thing as she sobbed. The Viera proceeded to explain that she was struggling in adapting to the new place, unable to interact with people, especially when they were like [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. Odette tried her best to calm her down, speaking kind and gentle words while she'd stroke her hairs but the Viera then said that she felt like a burden to her. She only had her and felt like she had no one to turn to, while at the same time only causing her issues. Odette quickly countered her words, stating that they were best friends and that she gladly would dedicate all her time to her. After some more talking, [[Vildola Fyth]] did calm down although she admitted she had nowhere to go, and then Odette told her that she could move in with her into her small apartment. The offer shocked the Viera but she took it and the two became roommates. After the long day, the woman decided to retire to the apartment for some much needed rest and Odette told her she'd join her soon after a small trip to the market to get some food for them to pass the evening together by the fireplace. As the Viera left, [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] came out of hiding, handing her the woman's staff as she seemed to had forgotten it. Odette took it, thanking him for his help. He immediately told her that he was amazed at her good heart and truly impressed by what she had done for her friend. It was a bit offending to know that he thought otherwise but she responded in kind, and the two reconciled with a handshake. He agreed not to speak of what was mentioned in the tunnel as well as her drunken state back when they had first met. She did appreciate it and would exchange a few more words before leaving towards the markets.

While at the markets, Odette made certain to pick out the freshest produce to share with her friend. Content to get a nice hefty bag-full, she started to make her way towards the Goblet but ended up smashing into a lamppost at a turn and she dropped everything while at the same time almost breaking her nose. Annoyed and disoriented, she quickly went about picking up all the fruit when suddenly another hand came into view. Looking up she recognized the man to be [[Varriz Relanah]]. He startled her and she fell back on her rear blushing, aware that he saw the entire incident. He chuckled, helping her out and inspecting any injuries she might have sustained. Noticing that the hit would leave a mark, he proposed to take her back to his shop where he had some healing balm which would help her. Although flustered, she gladly took him up on the offer. At the main square, he took to to his medium sized cart. She was truly amazed as she never got to see one up close and she was like a child set lose in a candy shop. Inside she inspected absolutely every single item, truly amazed and wanting to know everything about the origins of each of the trinkets. He sat her down before they got overly distracted and applied the balm to her forehead. Odette wanted to repay him but he refuse the money, instead wanting to have that walk with her which he had promised her a week prior. While a bit confused at the simple exchange, she did not mind and agreed; the two leaving the cart after she left her groceries there, not wanting to carry them around. He took her to the hill where the Coffin & Coffer we nestled into, wanting to present to her the gorgeous view from above. Despite the breathtaking view, it was clear that she had a much bigger interest in the man's wares back in his cart and he gladly guided her back to it where she proceeded to explore openly everything. As she would pick out something, he would tell her the story behind each item. Despite all the riches and luxurious, she was mostly attracted to the simple things like seashells which she had never seen in her life; it seemed to appeal to him. She inspected a kimono, as well as some shiny rocks, including dried leaves but what caught her eye the most was a musketoon which lay against a shelving unit. She inspected it, quickly remembering her lessons to learn to wield such a weapon. [[Varriz Relanah]] was quite surprised to see her adept at it and he did offer her the chance to polish up her skills, but only if she were willing to pay for the bullets. While tempting, she had another offer, wanting to buy the gun fully from the man. He was gladly willing to sell her the weapon and made her an offer, but she came up one gil short, and pleaded for a deal while laughing at how cliche it seemed. However, much to her surprise, he offered her a game and the winner could ask the other person anything. They had to describe two constellations each and the one to guess both, won. Odette did not inform him that she studied astromancy and so she won easily and as a prize, she requested her money back for the firearm. He was absolutely distraught at how shrewd she was.
[[File:Odettecorvinoixgun.png|500px|right|]]
Odette brought back the weapon to the company where she ran into [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], who immediately expressed interest in the wooden box she held. She opened it and presented him the weapon and he questioned her how come such a gentle and docile person had such a weapon. She explained to him that she was taught to use one when younger and that she managed to get it at a very good deal, free. He seemed genuinely interested in seeing her use it and he requested that she tests it. Seeing no harm in it, she loaded the cartridges in and prepped herself, until he commented that it felt nostalgic to him. Upon asking further, he explained that his mother too was a healer and thta her weapon of choice for self-defense was a gun. The conversation took a turn when he asked her if she would be willing to exchange their expertise, him teaching her melee combat, specializing as a dragoon, while she would teach him how to use a firearm. Odette saw no harm at all in teaching him but he warned her that on his side with the dragoon ways, she would be taught to kill an enemy without reservations for the best of the others. That notion did not sit well with her at all and she kindly rejected his offer; but she up-kept her side of wanting to teach him to use a gun. He commented that she was truly a light in the dark, her kind and soft nature always shinning through. She laughed and promised that despite not being an offence person, she'd make certain not to be a burden on the company, wanting to assist in any way possible. That was when he reminded her that she owed him a check up. Flustered that she had forgotten, she immediately offered to give him the check up immediately and he agreed. At the infirmary, she had him unclothe and that was when she was made aware of the sorry state of his body as it was littered in scars and burns. She checked him over carefully, using her magicks to make certain he was in good health but it was evident that his body was starting to feel the pressure and was worn out. She recommended him to take it easy, which he laughed at, stating she wasn't the only one to say so. Odette knew very well she wasn't the first to say so, and neither would she be the last. He got dressed and thanked her for her time, adding that he would try to take it easy.

The same evening, there was a meet-up at the Desert Carbuncle, a locale in the Goblet. Having nothing better to do she attended alone, but there she ran into [[Pishrero Junerero]] and then [[Ferroux Quilmont]] who joined much later. The trio stood by the bar as they engaged in conversation, the Lalafell and the man immediately touching base with business matters, but it seemed those got delayed due to usual business constraints. The Ishgardian then explained that is was his birthday a few days ago and that everything was going well on his side and he felt generous that evening, inviting his two friends to share a bottle of wine with him as he paid. The businessman refused the offer but Odette, not wanting to seem rude despite her weak head when it came to alcohol, accepted the offer with a smile. This pleased her friend and he immediately ordered an entire bottle for them to share while she prayed to the Fury for her safety and soberness. The two Elezen started drinking away and it was clear that Odette still had issues pacing herself as the men looked on at her with concern but she managed to keep it undercover quite well. [[Pishrero Junerero]] at some point left them to make some business connections and that was when the two Ishgardians spoke more openly. Odette told him of her newly acquired musketoon, explaining that it actually reminded of him since he worked for the Skysteel Manufactory. The notion made him really happy, but he then got curious and asked her if she actually knew how to use a firearm. She explained to him that she was taught to use it as a young girl as it was the only weapon with class that did not require brute force in her family's eyes. As the conversation kept going, she challenged her to a shooting, wanting to see who was the better shot between them as he deemed himself a specialist. She gladly took him up on the challenge, alcohol slowly starting to affect them both and making them much less shy and more charismatic. He said that he had a shooting range in the basement of his mansion back in Ishgard but that made her mood sadden as she reminded him that she could not really visit Ishgard whenever she wanted. That is when he came up with an idea to smuggle her in, literally. On a weekly basis, the Skysteel Manufactory got a shipment of parts from Eorzea and since he was such a workaholic working late hours, he was the only one who took care of opening the crates and ordering the ordered parts. If she were to sneak into one of the crates, or the ship itself, he would then be the one to get her out once she would arrive in Ishgard. The plan seemed perfect and she couldn't even express how happy she was to get such an offer and help from him, jumping up happily. He seemed just as happy and it also would provide him much needed company in his lonesome life. In exchange for his help and hospitality, she did offer him to stay over at her apartment anytime he needed or whenever he visited, however, she underlined that she could only offer him the couch as she was sharing the place with [[Vildola Fyth]]. He went red at the offer but he gladly took it up. A few more people appeared who talked to them but as the evening came to a close, Odette then asked him if he actually had time now for the challenge. He seemed just as hyped and said he had plenty of time so they decided to go test each others' skills immediately, leaving the Desert Carbuncle. He had hidden his gun in some bushes beside the house which made her laugh at how 'professional' it looked. They returned to her apartment in the Goblet where she quickly changed into something more comfortable and she fetched her revolver.
[[File:Odetteferrouxcouple.png|500px|left|]]
The two made their way to the high steps overlooking the Brimming Heart, from where they had the person view over the area as well as potential targets. They agree that the opponent would select the target for the shooter, and first one to get three points would win. She selected his target first and for the first two rounds, they got a perfect tie. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then proposed that they could actually make some deal for the winner to make the game more interesting and she saw no harm in it, although she had no idea what potentially to even ask for. he quickly cancelled the entire prize thing, finding it silly. Odette immediately figured him out and said that if all he wanted was her company, he did not need to win a bet to get it, but simply ask her and he would receive. He was amazed at her divination skills, thinking that it had to be some astrologian magic to read minds. She just laughed it off and they continued their game, for the last round selecting much smaller targets. He was up first and much to his dismay, but her glee, he missed the target. Luck was on Odette's side as she hit a perfect bull's eye on the target he selected for her, making her the winner. In the heat of the moment, she threw herself on him with a hug. While he stiffened at first from his nerves, he swiftly returned it, thanking her for everything. Despite his loss, he felt like a winner as he had met her and gained her friendship, including getting a hug from her. His words were extremely flattering and she smiled, explaining that if he ever wanted a hug he only needed to ask, as it wasn't anything taboo or forbidden. Bashfully, he requested for one more. She immediately embraced him and he indulged in the hug, telling her how grateful and happy he was to meet her back at the Quicksand, and she reciprocated the feeling, truly glad to have met him. She added that deep down, she wished that she had met him sooner, even while she resided in Ishgard, as she was certain his friendship would have changed her path. He understood her perfectly, and he too had a similar impression, explaining that he spent six years alone ever since his parents passed and that his loneliness would not have existed if they had crossed paths. His eyes started to water and she immediately went about cleaning his face should the tears start to fall and she comforted him. She told him that she'd visit him as much as possible, not wanting him to be alone, and now that he found a way to get her into Ishgard undetected, she could do it much more often. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then said that he did wish for more than to just spend time with her, which threw her for a loop. She did not know what else she could offer him apart from visiting him more often but he quickly clarified, confessing to her and asking her to be romantically involved with him. While it hit her hard, she definitely did not dislike the man. He was kind and gentle with her, and he clearly had his own hardships too, but he managed; just like her. It was evident that he cared and that he was desperate for affections; much like her too. She agreed. The two of them sobbed tears of joy and relief, noting that both were crybabies. She promised to try and tone down the crying, aware that if it kept on going they would never finish it. It was then that the two shared their first kiss, warm, tender and innocent. Both were knew to this but the feelings they shared were undeniable as they shared the embrace. He asked her after what they were to do after. Confused, she replied that they would just keep going and do things like normal couples did; going out, spending time together... He laughed, as he meant what they were to do that evening overall, not the dating part. She blushed embarrassed at the faux-pas and they returned to her apartment as he was anyway meant to spend the night there. Once back at the apartment, he expressed interest in meeting her flatmate [[Vildola Fyth]] but she was nowhere to be found. Odette explained to him her friend's situation, stating that the woman was also a foreigner but that she struggled with socializing and anxiety would hit her each time. She was lonely and had nowhere to go, thus, she took her in. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] immediately related with the unknown Viera, fully understanding how bad loneliness was. She explained to him that she would gladly introduce them to one another but that for the time being it was best not to force it, fearing her friend would just freak out anew as she remembered the incident from a few days prior. The couple sat together by the fire, talking into the late night until Odette started to slowly fall asleep over his shoulder. He noticed her passing out and debated whether to take her to her bedroom but he couldn't bring himself to it and the two of them drifted to sleep together on the couch.

The following evening there was a costume party at Raven's Heart to celebrate All Saints Wake, and so Odette invited [[Sini'to Shadar]] as well as [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. The priest came dressed as a grey pig which was definitely disturbing and even the Elezen man was left speechless when he met him. Odette dressed up as a very casual witch while [[Ferroux Quilmont]], being in a rush and having not much of a selection, dressed up on the fancy side with a simple moogle hat to top it off. The three headed over to the company house and were immediately greeted by many people. Some even seemed to know already of the relationship which made [[Ferroux Quilmont]] embarrassed and he spent the entire evening at Odette's side. At some point there has been a contest to locate four stuffed toys; the lights went off and panic ensued. The Elezen was so excited and wanting to win that he was dragging Odette all over the place and they did very well together however the win went to another. They did receive consolation prizes consisting of a few cookies and a bottle of wine each. The evening came to an early end and everyone went their way while the couple decided to retreat back to Odette's apartment to try out the wine they had won. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] tended to the wine and as he got it open, they would talk on many different topics, among them him asking her of her hobbies as well as favourite things. Odette learned that he was to return to Ishgard the following day and it saddened her, however she understood very well that it was for work and that it could not be avoided. She did promise that she would visit him no matter what, despite the risks. He appreciated it but did explain that he was planning on changing positions, wanting something more mobile or closer to her but she insisted that he did as his heart desired, not wanting him to change anything only for her sake. With the wine and the great company, the two got more intimate. Both being new at it, it was either awkward but the wine helped there with that. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] got worked up as did Odette as the two got heated and would explore a bit more of each others' bodies, however, Odette remained sane and stopped it before it got too far, stating that it was a bit too soon and that she did not want to do it without the necessary precautions. He agreed and after a moment they did calm down from the moment of fervor, deciding to retreat to bed. As they undressed, Odette noticed the amount of scars covering his left torso and it worried her. He told her the tale of an explosion of a gas tank which almost killed him but instead left him the large scar. His line of work definitely did not seem to be the safest but since it was something he adored to do, she did not voice any further concerns and the two went to sleep.

Morning came and [[Ferroux Quilmont]] departed for Ishgard. Odette, left alone, definitely felt the loneliness hit her immediately and her motivation and mood just dropped. She did not want to go out or anything, struggling to manage without him after such amazing two days. That was when [[Varriz Relanah]] paid her a visit and to get her out, he took her to another All Saint’s Wake costume party. Despite not feeling up for it, she did go and dressed up the same way as at the previous party while he got dressed as a creepy doctor. The event was at the Goblet which was convenient and once inside they ran into [[Sini’to Shadar]], dressed as a grey pig. Everyone was dumbfounded by this development and he definitely did everything to channel a pig in his costume, as far as making sound effects and pig noises. [[Varriz Relanah]] definitely questioned her choice of friends but both men did get along as they found common ground with the mercantile business. [[Simeon Sibaruse]] also happened to be at the event and he too began to question the people Odette attracted, but he did find it amusing. Everyone relaxed and mingled in peace, Odette definitely feeling much better and perked up in the presence of her friends when suddenly [[Valentin Vulaire]] made an appearance and immediately set his sights on her. [[Varriz Relanah]] immediately stepped in, taking up a protective posture, which I turn, made [[Valentin Vulaire]] believe that he was her partner and it triggered new talks. He would touch her and try to sweet-talk her, and then he asked her to join him on a trip. She was left shocked and started to ask questions, wanting the reasons for the trip and when it was meant to be; to which he replied immediately. Odette refused and told him they would talk tomorrow as she could not leave right now out of nowhere. He did not seem too pleased but he agreed and then took his leave. The encounter exhausted her but she managed to enjoy the event regardless, including witnessing [[Sini’to Shadar]] winning the costume contest.

Odette was woken up by a knock on her door at an obnoxious hour, rolling out still in her nightgown to rush to the door. As she opened it, it was [[Valentin Vulaire]]. While she knew they were to meet, she did not expect it to be even before sunrise. He invited himself in while she tried to wake up, quickly brushing through her hairs with her fingers to make herself look a bit more presentable. Wasting no time, she asked him what was going on yesterday, wanting to know why he needed to go to Ishgard immediately, and why with her. He then explained that it need not be Ishgard and that he simply desired to go away somewhere with her. The news shocked her and she found herself struggling to accept such an offer due to her current status. Seeing it as an amicable outing, she began to pack her things until he then told her it would be a date. She immediately stopped her packing and told him up front that she could not go with him as she was seeing someone. It was evident that he did not appreciate the news and even tried to coerce her into coming along with him regardless, trying to kiss her in the process but she refused him and he left her alone, leaving the apartment. Distraught and confused, feeling lonely, Odette remembered that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] had left her his linkpearl. Despite the early hours of the morning, she called him and caught him in the middle of work. He immediately took a break to be able to speak with her, clearly extremely happy to hear her. She refused to tell him of what had happened but she admitted to missing him and asked if she could actually try out his plan of smuggling her in. Surprised but definitely not against it he informed her that a shipment to Ishgard was due in a few hours and she agreed to be on it. They exchanged a few tenders words and Odette prepped for the journey. In Ul’dah at the airship landing she immediately was able to locate the airship bound for Ishgard and she hid herself in one of the crates without anyone noticing her. To keep herself occupied she had taken with herself a small book and nothing else, the crate much too tight to take anything else with herself. The journey wasn’t bad at all as most of it was relatively quiet but as the ship would approach Ishgard, the freezing cold was undeniable and she had forgotten to take her jacket with herself, especially when living in Thanalan. It got a bit warmer once it seemed the crates were finally deposited somewhere and she was able to discern voices and footsteps. She was sweating bullets, worried that someone other than [[Ferroux Quilmont]] would find her, which would definitely end her. To her relief, she then heard his voice called for her and she knocked on her crate to let him know where she was. He immediately got her out and the two shared an embrace, overjoyed to reunite even if they hadn’t seen each other for only two days. Seeing her shaking from the cold he immediately gave her his coat, taking her to the employee room where they shared a quick meal he had prepared for them. While eating, Odette gently told him of what had happened and it definitely did not sit well with him but he did not want to alarm her and so he kept his cool. Among the talks, he asked her why she couldn’t enter and leave Ishgard at ease. While she did not want to speak of it, especially to him, she understood that it was something which he deserved to know. Odette proceeded to explain her betrothal to another from another House and how she escaped. He did not expect such a tale, and while he understood her, he felt sorry for her family who missed her. She too understood his point of view but she wasn’t about to throw away her hard work for them nor her freedom. However, the matter did get him thinking, debating as far as even having her marry him so the family would be unable to wed her to another. The idea definitely was not a bad one but both of them agreed that it was much too early to even debate such things, leaving them flustered and embarrassed. Once they finished the meal, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] quickly cleaned up and they went for a walk in the city. He decided to take her towards the Brume, which she never had the occasion to explore thoroughly. During the walk they talked of many things, and their affections would merely strengthen each time, each one supporting the other. At the Forgotten Knight they shared some tea by the fire as more talks started, this time about family and the state of House Quilmont. Odette always reinforced that she did not care of his status and that she accepted him fully no matter what. While he knew the words were heartfelt, it still pained him that he could not give her what he wanted. Once finished, they then went back to his place.
[[File:Ferrouxandodetteinoffice.png|400px|left|]]
The house was definitely rundown and struck with poverty, but it was clear to see that it used to be a grand mansion. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was definitely ashamed of the fact but Odette was well aware of the reasons and did not blame him in the least. Quite the contrary, she found the place cozy. He gave her a tour of the entire place, her attention definitely on his small office where she asked him if he ever slept there. He nodded. Odette knew very well that he neglected himself and she did not approve, hoping to perhaps change that during her stay with him. She inspected his bookcase while he wrapped his arms around her waist, asking if she was into engineering books. Alas, chuckling, she replied that she was much more into poetry and romance novels but she proposed that she’d gladly read to him sometime in the evenings. He seemed to enjoy the idea and agreed. Next room was his workshop. It was a different world for her as she inspected all the machines and his contraptions, immediately complimenting him on his talents. Modestly he appreciated her words but he did not see it as talent. Odette quickly clarified and explained to him why she saw it as amazing, leaving him blushing and flattered. He too then proceeded to compliment her, learning that she was a talented piano player. After a long exchange, he proposed that they move back upstairs and have some wine, or sit on the couch. Unable to choose, she decided they have some wine by the fireplace. Amused he agreed and he went to fetch one of the best bottles of wine his father had kept, wanting to share it with her. Odette still struggled with drinking alcohol but she did not want it to be a problem when spending time with him, so she pushed her boundaries a bit. As they drank the wine and enjoyed each other’s company, she asked him about his parents, genuinely wanting to know more. While he seemed at peace with it all, it was clear that he still pained him at times. Odette gladly listened as he described his parents to her, adding that for certain they would have liked it. It definitely made her smile, the talk and the wine calming her down. As the evening carried on, they drank more and more and it relaxed both introverts to the point them beginning to make out fervently, shyness dimmed and other senses heightened. As they got more and more into it, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] proposed they move to the bedroom. She agreed and he took her there, where both of them froze up completely. The reality loomed over both and neither were capable to initiate anything. Odette took a deep breath, genuinely wanting this with him and refusing for her shyness to be the barrier from them consummating their relationship. Reaching deep for some much needed courage, she took the lead, having him sit at the edge of the beg and cradling herself over his lap. He was left speechless but seeing her take the lead, he too tried to push past his timid side. The two of them slowly relax as they would slowly shed pieces of clothing, revealing themselves more and more to each other, no barriers or secrets left. A most tender and intimate night followed as the two finally consummated their relationship, Odette having her very first experience with him, and she did not regret it one bit.

In the afterglow, [[Ferroux Quilmont]], out of nowhere, asked her to move in with him. It left Odette speechless and he immediately thought that perhaps his words were too soon but she countered him in seconds, expressing her joy and fully willing to move in with him in a heartbeat. He was overjoyed to hear this and cried together with her in glee. However, this brought up an entire new conversation as Odette started to debate how she could return to Ishgard but still remain unfound by her family, but still be able to function freely around the city. While discussing the options, she came up with the brilliant idea to become a private tutor to other Houses, aiming to teach the children etiquette as well as everything necessary to be worthy Highborn to a noble house. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was surprised but he definitely could see her succeeding, as she took went through such strict upbringing and she knew it through and through. But, it would expose her even more by becoming known around the Houses. It was still a smart move to be in plain sight and yet hidden. Odette felt excited about being able to find some form of employment in Ishgard to be able to assist with the finances, but she needed a new identity. She then asked him if she could use House Quilmont as her cover up. This shocked him, but he was flattered that she wanted to carry his family name. Then the debate on whom she would be within the household began, and jokingly he stated that she could be simply Odette Quilmont. The two of them got flustered immediately and they just panicked, understanding that he meant her posing as his wife. Odette was the first to calm down and decided that she would simply be a tutor from House Quilmont, offering her services to other Houses. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] agreed. He then asked her about her life back in Thanalan, about her apartment and also her allegiance towards her company. She explained that she would leave her keys to [[Malrinn Nures]], allowing her to tend to her place, or simply give it away fully to [[Vildola Fyth]] as she did need a place to stay at. As for her loyalty towards Raven’s Heart, she had partaken in a meeting where [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was leaving them for a prolonged period of time, leaving the company in the hands of his second in command. No one appeared to trust the woman and Odette was there solely due to her agreement with [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], thus, she had nothing holding her there anymore. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] didn’t feel too comfortable with her abandoning her life in Thanalan but he was overjoyed to have her move in with him. It appeared that everything was settled and Odette had a lot to plan in the coming days to set it all in motion.
</spoiler>

'''Feeling of Belonging''' (24-Current)

<spoiler>
With [[Ferroux Quilmont]] occupied with work, Odette ventured out to the Jeweled Crozier to browse the wares. Once there, she purchased three books, each contained some fairy-tales as well as light romances. Still looking about, the moment she turned around she immediately spotted and recognized [[Malrinn Nures]] tending to a stall selling flowers. Odette immediately approached her and the two girls shared an embrace, both thrilled to have run into each other, and surprised to see the other in Ishgard. The Au Ra quickly explained that she did live in Ishgard most of her time and that she was a florist while Odette gently said that she was staying in Ishgard, most likely permanently. This immediately piqued the girl's interest and she closed her stall for the moment to go have something warm to eat with the Elezen. The two went over to another area of the market where Odette purchased them some stew and hot chocolate to warm up, settling on a set of stairs to each in peace despite the cold. While Odette nursed her bowl in her lap, warming up her hands, the Au Ra immediately asked her why she was deciding to stay in Ishgard. Blushing, Odette then explained that she had met someone and that they had moved in. This came as a huge shock to her friend but the girl was very understanding, immediately expressing her joy and aware that if it was something that Odette had decided to follow, then it had to be right. This came as a huge relief to her, glad to have the support of her dearest friend. [[Malrinn Nures]] then also mentioned that she had met someone and was going out. This news overjoyed Odette and the two girls exchanged some girly talks, enjoying their time together and the banter, the Au Ra going as far as asking about intimate things which immediately made Odette blush and unable to respond. Once done, the two returned to the Au Ra’s flower stand where they talked some more, Odette mentioning that [[Ferroux Quilmont]]’s mansion was a bit rundown and that she would like to bring more life to it. That was when [[Malrinn Nures]] decided to give her some flowers to liven up the place and she proposed a beautiful set of potted Azalea’s. Odette was absolutely thrilled at the gift, asking what she wanted in exchange to which her friend replied, half-jokingly, that she’d want to be the florist for her wedding ceremony once it would happen. Flustered, Odette agreed and the two parted ways, both extremely happy to have met one another.

Returning to House Quilmont, Odette would set down her books and the pot of Azalea’s by the table near the door while she removed her outerwear. Taking a moment to listen in, she could hear some noise coming from downstairs, suspecting it had to be her partner who had come back from work earlier. She descended the stairs, calling for him and the response was almost immediate, accompanied with the noise of items falling to the floor before the doors to his workshop opened, a cloud of smoke escaping the room. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was a mess as per usual but clearly thrilled to see her as he embraced the woman, while she looked behind him to inspect the mess, noticing his desk in disarray and a pile of papers laying all over the floor. The two of them quickly cleaned up the place and Odette mentioned to him that she met her best friend at the market, mentioning that she was an Au Ra. This worried him as their kind wasn’t too welcome but Odette reassured him that [[Malrinn Nures]] was a strong character and that she could manage on her own. She then added that the girl had gifted them a pot of flowers to decorate the mansion, which overjoyed him. Odette motioned him to follow her back upstairs once they were done with cleaning to show them to him but he swept her off her feet, carrying her back to the ground floor. Her hands immediately snaked behind his neck for support as he held her in his arms, sharing a tender embrace as he brought her upstairs. Odette then showed him the beautiful fuchsia flowers as well as the three books she had purchased. He thanked her immediately for bringing the flowers as well as bringing more life to the mansion, which fueled the next conversation. She mentioned that she had been to the attic to inspect what was up there, as well as searching for actual clothes for herself as she had brought nothing with herself. Luckily she had found some clothes to be able to perfectly camouflage herself when out and about. It definitely got him curious and he followed her to the attic. He immediately noticed that she had cleaned up a large portion of the place, mostly a part contained closets and chests. Inside of them, Odette had found lots of female attire, suspecting it to be his mother’s, which he later on confirmed. She quickly threw on a coat which seemed like a teachers garb, including a pair of lenseless glasses before tying up her fabulous blonds into two plain braids. Despite the simplicity, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] found her rather charming in the clothes which definitely flattered her. She did find more dresses and clothes and he immediately commented that he would not mind having her wear any of them, his mother definitely would have approved. This truly lessened her worries as well as warmed the heart to know. The two of them decided to go outside to get some groceries done, while at the same time testing her getup.

Before heading out, she did note that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was rather filthy since he had been at work, his face caked with oils and dirt. He laughed agreeing and told her to give him a few minutes to go wash himself. She then settled herself over the couch with one of the books she had purchased, keeping herself busy while he tended to himself. Shortly after she heard some whistling, assuming it was him so she rose her head from her book to look but then spotted him waltzing past completely naked! She immediately called out his name alarmed and he was then made aware that he wasn’t alone, quickly taking the towel from his head to wrap it around his waist before darting towards the bedroom to change. Odette remained there sitting absolutely frozen until he finally came out, fully dressed and ready to head out. It was evident that he too was caught off-guard, haven forgotten that she was there as he acted on pure habit. The awkwardness was evident and to loosen it up, she chuckled and ran out the front door, calling him to follow along. Confused, he followed her outside only to be greeted by a snowball to the chest. He immediately burst into laughter, collecting snow in his hands and throwing it back at her. The two continued their antics, Odette content to see him calm down and loosen up after the little exposure from before. The back and forth continued for a while until he finally won by throwing her onto a pile of snow, threatening to throw snow down her shirt. Despite the silliness, the two kissed and shared another tender moment between their fun; before finally getting up and heading towards the market. At the market, the two struggled to decide what to even get; Odette completely inept at cooking while [[Ferroux Quilmont]] appeared a bit more comfortable with it, but still quite lacking. They decided to make his favourite: meatpies. But both had no idea how to even begin and they debated getting perhaps a cooking book. He opted not to, seeing it as a challenge and a way to have fun. They quickly purchased a few basics they assumed logical like eggs, milk, butter, flour…etc

Walking back home hand in hand, they began to talk about dinner as well as some idle casual talk. Among the topics however, he mentioned wanting to spend a lovely evening with her, to which she replied that she hoped for more than just one evening. This brought him joy and he went as far as saying that he hoped it would be for the rest of her life, and to his surprise, she did not mind, agreeing to the notion. This did make him freeze up in surprise and she would go about kissing his cheek, wanting him to calm down a bit, aware that he was perhaps embarrassed. Unknown if due to confusion or he just blurted out his thoughts without thinking, he then asked for her to become his wife; quickly adding that it did not have to be immediately or the next day, but someday, wanting her to become Odette Quilmont officially. It rendered her absolutely speechless, immediately asking him he meant it to be her cover-up while residing in Ishgard or if it was a genuine question. To her question, he dropped down to one knee, proposing to her officially and asking for her hand in marriage. She had not expected it to ever happen in her life, betrothed to another by her family; and yet her heart sung out to him. Despite escaping one marriage, she felt this one was right and she wanted it. She felt to her knees before him, embracing him as she wept tears of joy. He was taken aback for a moment, processing what had just happened before it finally reached him that she agreed to the union. His arms wrapped around the woman as he promised to cherish her forever as she promised to be always at his side. The two remained wrapped around one another, allowing the moment to sink in before finally getting up and heading back to the mansion. Odette felt like nothing could stop her anymore, especially with [[Ferroux Quilmont]] at her side. He was her everything and he made her the happiest woman in the realm that day. He casually mentioned that he still was amazed that she was with him, unable to understand why. She smiled, replying that she’d show him later on just what she sees. It got him to blush but he wasn’t opposed to it, his thoughts definitely leaning towards intimate ones. Lost in her thoughts, Odette suddenly smacked her head dead onto a lamppost right before the gates to the mansion, immediately kneeling to the ground as her hands pressed to her forehead. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] went mental with worry, immediately picking her up, assuming the worst. She tried to calm him done but he wouldn’t have any of it, kicking the front door of his house open before laying the woman over the couch. She remained absolutely perplexed, more worried about the state of the door than herself as she felt perfectly fine. He went about closing the door before he returned to her. She reassured him again that she was fine and he finally gave in, seeing that she was alright. He got up and would ask her if she wanted to cook immediately or relax a bit before beginning. Her arms then wrapped around him as she pressed herself to his back, timidly asking for some cuddles. He was genuinely happy to hear such a request and agreed, first quickly setting the foods in the kitchen before returning to her to join her on the couch. Once he was there, she beamed and would cradled herself in his life, picking out a small pocket-mirror out of the pockets of her skirt. She flipped it open, having the mirror face him so he could see his reflection and she proceeded to explain to him just what she saw in him, as promised a few minutes prior. A heart of gold, a caring personality, smart, loving, generous; and the list went on. [{Ferroux Quilmont]] was left speechless, become more and more red by the minute. He then returned the favour, much to her surprise, stating all the qualities that he loved about her; beautiful, kind and brave, adding the fact that she saved a man’s life from a lifetime of solitude. He was absolutely overjoyed to have this exchange and he embraced her anew, reiterating his undying love for her.

They exchange a few more tender words until Odette decided to take the initiative, her arms sliding past his shoulders to grab hold of the back of the couch, pressing her body against his own. He immediately caught on and would have his hands over her before having her lay down over the couch with him over her. Both still flustered about the entire thing, it still would not deter their determination, Odette wanting to experience more intimacy with him just as much as he wanted with her. They began innocently, both red, but their bodies and hearts calling for one another. They shared they second intimate evening wrapped around one another in a tight embrace, Odette never wishing to part and intent on being less shy around him. In public she was the one who was much more open, but when alone with him, their roles would reverse, her being shy and him more forthcoming.

One evening after going out to purchase more books for herself, back at the mansion, Odette ran into [[Ferroux Quilmont]] conversing with [[Simeon Sibaruse]]. Her partner immediately greeted her overjoyed to see her, and yet he appeared flustered and embarrassed, struggling to form words. Confused, she asked the two of their topic of discussion and the older Elezen replied that they spoke of touching. It only worked to confuse her further, unable to comprehend what was so bad about that. Her second-half would whisper to her ear, explaining as best as he could but it still failed until the guest clarified that they spoke of intimacy with each of their partners. The result was immediate as her face went as red as her partner's, [[Simeon Sibaruse]] meanwhile quite literally laughing to his heart's content. She settled herself between the two of them on the couch, the man still teasing and poking fun at her partner but she quickly stood up to him, gently requesting for him to stop which he did, deeming that he sufficiently had the youngster suffer. Regardless of the teasing, he expressed that he genuinely was pleased to see the couple together and that he saw them as a perfect fit, wishing them the best. The news overjoyed her and she expressed her gratitude to the man together with [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. They exchanged a few more words when the men then moved on to the topic of the Ishgardian restoration. Not wanting to be in their way and wanting to go indulge in her new books, she excused herself to head downstairs and the two men would continue talking away.

As planned, Odette returned to Eorzea, needing to close up any loose ends before officially returning and staying in Ishgard.
She entered the Raven's Heart establishment, and perhaps she was lucky, as she found not a soul inside. Walking over to the notice board, she sighed heavily, a paper she had written beforehand in her hands as they shook nervously. She did feel a bit guilty but her loyalties were elsewhere. At a prior reunion at the company, [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was going to leave to tend to the Ishgardian restoration and with him gone, nothing was tying her to the place. She had no quarrels with anyone but her heart was back in Ishgard too. With that in mind, she pinned her letter to the board before heading out the door, leaving the company for good, but in her heart, she hoped it wasn't forever and that she would still meet the few people she had made friends with during her stay.
</spoiler>

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Gallery'''</div>===

<gallery>
Kalayahandodette.png|K'alayah & Odette
Taluhtotalk.png|Talking with Taluh'to
Vildolatalk.png|Girl-Talk with Vildola
Pianolesson.png|Piano Lesson
Sagoliidesert.png|Sagolii Desert Mission
Corvinoixandodette.png|Corvinoix & Odette
brokenfinger.png|New Infirmary
Odetteandkaida.png|Kaida & Odette
arthainduel.png|Arthain's Duel
Valandodettekiss.png|Valentin & Odette Bonding
friendlyadvice.png|Friendly Advice from Malrinn
shootingbet.png|Ishgardian Passtime
talkingthenightaway.png|Odette & Ferroux
allsaintswakerhrp.png|All Saints Wake
</gallery>

[[Category:Character]] [[Category:Player Character]] [[Category:Elezen]] [[Category:Ishgardian]] [[Category:Duskwight Elezen]] [[Category:Character Stub]]

Odette Veaureaux

2020-03-20T14:47:47Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Relationships */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Odette Veaureaux
| image = odetteveaureauxprofile.png
| imagewidth = 340
| caption = "I had all the riches a person could desire...but freedom was not a luxury I could afford"
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Ishgardian
| race = [[:Category:Elezen|Elezen]]
| clan = [[:Category:Duskwight Elezen|Duskwight]]
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 24
| stat_2 = Nicknames
| stat_2_value = Petal, Swan
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Noblewoman
| stat_4 = Guardian Deity
| stat_4_value = [[Halone, the Fury]]
| stat_5 = Marital Status
| stat_5_value = Betrothed to [[Ferroux Quilmont]]
| stat_6 =
| stat_6_value =
}}
<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''About The Player'''</div>
* '''Time Zone:''' CET - Poland
* '''Nationality:''' Canadian-Polish
* '''Server:''' Omega
* '''FC''': None
* '''Lodestone:''' [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/27316543/ Odette Veaureaux]
* '''Additional Characters:''' [[Meriell Bell]], [[Rinako Ura]], [[Shin Nelhah]], [[Black Forest]], [[Rorosa Rosa]], [[Zetoh'a Velshado]], [[Bernadette Bearclaw]], [[Berold Bearclaw]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''General'''</div>===
'''Odette Aveline Geneviève Celestria de Veaureaux''', commonly referred to simply as "'''Odette'''", is a highborn noblewoman hailing from The Hole See of Ishgard.

With family roots stemming back millennia to form a very devoted household to the Theocracy, as well as being very traditional in it's beliefs, she lead a very secluded and controlled lifestyle.
She followed her family in their wishes, having truly no choice in anything in her life. Years of being groomed to carry on the noble title with dignity while being the embodiment of a lady, she remained silent, unaware of the lands outside nor what freedom they offered. As her hand was given in marriage to a complete stranger from another noble house, she would slowly start to notice the cracks in her supposedly perfect lifestyle. As the doubts grew, so did her yearning to break away from her restrained lifestyle and family. It was then that a group of adventurers from Ul'dah assisted her in her escape.

In Ul'dah, with nowhere to go and confused by the completely new lands, she joined [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900646603/ Aurora Eorzea], where they took great care of her, as well as sheltering her from her family who, no doubt, was searching for her. Her cooperation did not last long as she met a fellow Ishgardian nobleman who immediately gave her a deeper purpose in his company, wanting her to assist in the infirmary as well as healing the wounded at [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900660662/ Raven's Heart]. It came with a sense of home to serve under another Highborn and she took his offer gladly but this was short-lived as a chance encounter with another Highborn named [[Ferroux Quilmont]] turned her entire world upside down, falling deeply in love with the man to the point of returning to Ishgard to move in with him while remaining still hidden from her family.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Personality'''</div>===
Genteel, calm and serene, Odette is the pillar of composure, grace and beauty.
She always has something nice to say to everyone and will do it with utmost class, style and dignity, displaying her strict noble upbringing at all times as it is not something she can hide. Highly educated and always polite, she always refers to others on a formal basis, unless said person requests otherwise.
Odette is extremely friendly to anyone and usually won't ever avoid people, unless given good reason to. She is unable to use slang words or curse words; a thing which simply doesn't click with her due to her childhood. She does not mind if others use slang or shorter versions of words, but heavy curse words will always ruffle up her feathers and she shuns such individuals. She is always very eloquent and elegant with her words as well as her mannerisms; an absolute lady in every aspect. She struggles to be more casual as well as to adapt to normal Eorzean life but she is willing to push herself to be able to mingle better with others.

She isn't one for violence and shall avoid it at all costs, always pushing for peace via diplomacy. Very articulate and soft-spoken, she is able to often calm down situations as long as they do not require brute force. If there is some uproar or ruckus in the vicinity, she is one to avoid it, preferring not to even be involved.

Despite all her advantages, she is very easy to be lied to, as she is very trusting of strangers due to a naive nature. She is not used to teasing, flirting or even jokes and they always send her for a spin, unknowing how to react to them. She often blushes in embarrassment and would try to diffuse the situation, but most often she would end up merely embarrassing herself even further. She has no experience at all with normal interactions with others and she struggles to understand at times the meanings behind peoples' actions. Fretted by the touch of a butterfly's wing, ready to faint at the sound of a beetle or the rattling of a window pane at night, she is a very skittish person, easily startled if approached out of nowhere.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Appearance'''</div>===
[[File:Odetteappearance.png|520px|left|]]
Odette is a woman of absolute beauty and exemplar refinement, which is impossible to go unnoticed.

She has gorgeous golden blond locks, semi-tied into a braid reaching to her mid-back; only at times pinned up into a tight bun. A pair of stunning and brilliant big icy-blue eyes. At simple glance anyone can say that she is a noblewoman, her fingers untouched by manual labour and her skin unexposed to the sun, white almost like porcelain or the freshest milk.. She takes great care of her looks, often spending hours by the mirror, making sure that she is presentable for the day. As most her kind, she is fairly tall, however among her own people she would not be considered the tallest, standing at a good average height among Elezen. A slender and delicate build, she is the embodiment of feminine charm and elegance.

Being a noblewoman, she tends to wear long garbs or gowns, often decorated intricately with embroidery or gemstones which came to the floor. While most nolewomen wore colourful fabrics, her favourite dress is a simply pale blue Ishgardian gown, void of any elaborateness but padded from the inside with fur to keep her warm. Not one for jewelry, she only wears simple crystal earrings, not wanting any bracelets or necklaces as she feels they get too much in the way. With some attire, she also wears a pair of sheer-white gloves, most commonly used when meeting people and not doing anything which would entail dirtying her hands. For footwear, she always wears her favourite pair of white, thigh-high Ishgardian boots. Odette was not one to wear headpieces but when cold, she would wear a pale blue cap with a small veil at the back which she would often keep at the front to shield her face.

She started to try and dress much more casual and common, pairing her own attire with some more everyday pieces of clothing. Trousers started to make way into her wardrobe as well as simpler blouses and shirts. But no matter what she wore, her noble upbringing was always evident at first glance, if not even just by how much care she took of herself.
With recent developments, she began to dress even more casual with darker colours making an appearance as well as a pair of glasses over her nose, the look more alike to a tutor or teacher more than a noblewoman. Her fabulous blonds tied up in a braid going around her head and often hidden under a cap. Despite the immense change in attire, when one would look closer, they would spot that she was a beauty under all the rags regardless.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Occupation'''</div>===
[[File:Astrologyodette.png|580px|right|]]
Being a noble and the youngest of the family, Odette had no job or occupation, other than studying.
She is very highly educated, especially in all sorts of literature and teachings. Manners and etiquette were of prime importance, including how to curtsy and how to mix with the greatest nobles in Ishgard. Time would be spent learning how to dance and ride. Some housewifely duties such as preserving fruits, sewing, embroidery and household management were also taught, to prepare her for her duties as a married woman. Expecting her to run the household in the possibility of the absence of her husband to be, it was imperative that she be literate and have reasonable mathematical skills so that she might run these with efficiency and be able to check whether her household costings seemed reasonable. She was taught to read, write, tell stories, read romances and judge the merits of poetry. Her favourite were leisure romances and poems as well as holy scriptures. She often undertook singing lessons and was instructed in multiple musical instruments.
Her spiritual education was critical being Ishgardian, and she would be extremely devout to Halone like most noble families.

Aside from her noble upbringing, she also learned the art of astromancy which came at a very early age, as her parents would send her daily to the Atheneum Arcaneum to study with the elders. They only saw fit that she learned to channel her Aether in a useful way, and being a trouble-maker as a child, it was a good activity to keep her mind busy from all her other studies which were dull to her. Odette enjoyed greatly reading the night sky and its constellations, and was an ace student. She mastered the skill of foresight and would learn to wield the magicks of the stars in her hands as she got to hold her very first star globe. She has never applied her skills in combat and has no experience outside of normal use as she specialized in healing magicks.
At the behest of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], she was put in charge of tending to the wounded during missions as well as afterwards in the infirmary. She made it her priority, making certain that they were stocked up on all medical supplies and she even took pride in her newly found job, wanting to assist people as best as she could.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Combat'''</div>===
Odette has absolutely no experience in battle, only having been exposed once to a mission and she did not enjoy it one bit.

Being a noblewoman, she has no endurance or stamina to show for, nor strength for that matter.
While not a fighter, she does offer a supportive role as a healer and helper to her companions, putting their safety and needs above her own at times. She utilizes her natural Duskwight assets of a very acute sense of hearing as well as her eyesight in the dark.

She was offered to be taught the ways of the dragoon by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but she rejected it, unable to bring herself to hurt another person no matter the circumstance. She prefers to offer succor to people, and not inflict pain. He respected her decision; however, she did turn towards firearms after buying one off [[Varriz Relanah]]. As a young lady back in Ishgard she was taught to use them, as the Skysteel Manufactory was renowned and the family deemed it a fitting weapon, elegant and not requiring physical confrontation.

However, when put under extreme pressure or when someone is in danger, she can surprise all those around her, even herself, by showing incredible bravery, most likely fueled through adrenaline. On one occasion needing to reach a device at the bottom of a crate filled with poison oozing-worms; she took off her shirt and wrapped her arm in it to reach inside and obtain the device to complete the mission. Her devotion is unquestionable and even if she does not enjoy being on the front-lines, she is definitely an asset to any team.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Tendencies'''</div>===
'''Likes'''
::* Afternoon tea time
::* Sugary confections
::* Kind and honest people
::* Warm weather with sunny skies
::* Beautiful and artsy objects/decor

'''Dislikes'''
::* Profanity and vulgarism
::* Being treated differently due to social standing
::* Stuck-up and arrogant people
::* Extremely direct and inappropriate conversations
::* Alcohol / Drunkenness
::* Swimming, since she cannot swim at all

'''Hobbies'''
::* Observing the night sky
::* Studying different cultures
::* Discovering the world
::* Stitching and embroidery
::* Playing music
::* Indulging in poetry and leisure romance novels

'''Skills'''
::* Very skilled piano and harp player
::* Fervent poetry writer

<div style="border:0px solid; padding:8px;"><b>
<div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #90AB76;">◢ Common Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is a beauty both inside and out. A lady through and through"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #F37E1D;">◢ Uncommon Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#F37E1D;" size="3">■</font> "Despite all her beauty, she looks to be an airhead and an idiot like all other nobles"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #D83018;">◢ Rare Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#D83018;" size="3">■</font> "Don't let her serenity fool you... She can be quite the rebel when needed"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #aac5b4;">◢ PC Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Relationships'''</div>===

<center><font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Family    <font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> Love    <font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> Platonic    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Failed     <font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> Good    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> Neutral    <font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> Poor    </center>

'''Family'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Asoix Veaureaux (57)
The head of the family and father of Odette and Clauvort. A powerful man of high standing, not taking 'no' for an answer under no circumstances. He was never close to anyone in his family as he was more of a leader than a father or husband; distant and unattainable to anyone. Odette never saw him as more than the leader of their family and never had any relationship with the man.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Jucette Veaureaux (53)
Jucette is Odette's mother; a kind and genteel woman, much like her. Everyone would say that Odette was the exact copy of her mother, only younger. Odette was always a mother's girl and she adored spending time with her, until slowly noble life would catch up and duties called as well as her studies and the two drifted apart fairly quickly. Her mother wanted to see nothing more but to have Odette grow into a beautiful and distinguished woman, at the same time, ignoring the girl's happiness.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Clauvort Veaureaux (29)
Odette's older brother and future head of the Veaureaux family. He is head-strong and has all the characteristics to be a marvelous leader, however, he lacks open-mindedness and treats things as they are seen, which she sees as a great fault. He is confident, at times even arrogant about his position, but he was always protective of his baby sister and the two grew up together to bond very closely despite their different ideals. After the disappearance of Odette, he was the most worried and would search for her frantically no matter what.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Zeauraut Traideux (29)
Her fiancee and betrothed whom she never had even met or seen. She had no desire to meet the man and instead she left Ishgard as their first meeting was to be at the altar during their marriage ceremony. Even if he might have been a good man, she did not want to take the risk. She did meet the man indirectly after she let Ishgard but getting to know his nature, she knew she made the right decision to leave. Prideful, arrogant and stuck-up, all qualities she despised.

'''Love Interests'''
:<font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> [[Ferroux Quilmont]] (26)
A chance meeting at the Quicksand and this young but endearing fellow Ishgardian made a lasting impression on her. Workaholic and neglectful of himself, she did try to somehow ease it up on him but he seemed to be overworking himself to cover up his loneliness. When she expressed the desire to help him, he said that all he wanted was friends. It made her quite happy and she immediately offered her friendship to the man. While the two would have many odd and awkward moments, it was clear they got along perfectly. Despite only ever meeting twice, on the second encounter, he asked her out. Ever since, the two became inseparable to the point of him asking for her to move in with him back in Ishgard, and shortly after for her hand in marriage, to which she agreed.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Valentin Vulaire]] (35)
Needing to return to Ishgard for private matters, she met the man at the Forgotten Knight together with some other familiar faces. The two separated from the group to talk in private and agreed to return to Thanalan the following day together. Odette quickly learned that she had to remain on her toes as the man was clearly trying to get on her nerves every chance he got. However when not being an arrogant pig, he was quite tender and kind to her, and this quality did warm her heart to him. While she may be feeling infatuation towards him, she is aware that he is not the right person for her. She tries to keep their interactions innocent, not wanting to convince herself that more can be of such a relation.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Varriz Relanah]] (??)
Visiting Ul'dah for some down-time, she ran into this Moonkeeper at the restaurant area at the airship landing. A chance meeting but the two seemed to get along quite well despite his teasing and constant compliments which would get her rather embarrassed. He expressed great interest in showing her around Thanalan once he learned that she was a foreigner and she gladly took him up on the offer. His silver tongue and outgoing personality definitely piqued her interest. He would often try to flirt his way into her heart and it would often leave her flustered although flattered, however, unable to respond and reciprocate despite liking the man.

'''Friends'''
:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] (44)
Fellow Highborn Ishgardian she met while attending a meet-up at The Sharlayan Institutional Team of Gridania. After a most pleasant talk, she soon got to join his company as a nurse and healer to the wounded at his behest; unable to turn down a fellow Ishgardian. While finding the man absolutely dashing and the walking epitome of a Highborn gentleman, it also worked against her feelings for the man as she refused to get herself involved with another noble. She remained at his side through thick and thin, truly grateful for his help and seeing him almost as an older brother figure which she missed.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[K'alayah Xiaan]] (??)
The main leader of Aurora Eorzea. K'alayah was always very caring and giving towards the Elezen, including making sure she was safe from her past during her stay at the residence. Odette was always confused by the Sunkeeper woman, as this one always expressed great interest in her, which ventured beyond mere friendship. Perplexed with the natures of flirting and even intimacy, Odette always struggled to keep up with her pace. The two women bonded very closely regardless. Over time however, the advances started to sour the entire atmosphere and Odette left, although still treasuring her friendship with the woman.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Malrinn Nures]] (24)
Odette met this Au Ra at the Sharlayan Institute in the Lavender Beds and the two ladies did get along but it wasn't until two days later where they really got to bond at another outing. Despite their differences, they found lots of common ground and their friendship cemented even further as Malrinn discovered that Odette had never drank in her life and the night took a horrible turn, needing to escort the Elezen back home. While the night ended on a bad note, the chemistry was clear and Odette is very happy to call the woman her friend.

'''Acquaintances'''
:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] (??)
Friendly Moonkeeper fellow who works as a hunter and chef at the Aurora Eorzea. She met him upon her first visit to the establishment and while they haven't spoken much, he always seemed to be very polite and understanding. Eager to learn about all the different races, she would at times ask him about Miqo'te's and he was always glad to offer assistance and explanations. The two grew closer as he even told her of his past and she did appreciate it.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Reyza Blackwater]] (??)
Meeting her at a small outing to the Mists at a restaurant, Odette was truly impressed by this Miqo'te, especially her eloquent and beautiful speech pattern. It quickly became apparent that the feeling was mutual and the two women got to talk quite a lot that night, genuinely enjoying each other's company as they both clearly stuck out from the crowds.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Kaida Higashikaze]] (??)
Foreigner much like herself but from the East, most likely a samurai. While he was very distant and quiet at first, he quickly warmed up to her presence ant the two enjoyed a very lively talk which at some point became a bit too personal for Odette and the man quickly apologized to her. Despite this, she still enjoys his company and is looking forward to meeting more often.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Cesar Boulon]] (??)
A rude Ishgardian researcher and Aether professor whom she ran into at the Atheneum Arcaneum. Definitely not kind or even caring, his demeanor cold and calculating but he did assist her and her family by trying to find a cure for her sick father. Odette appreciated his help even if his methods were cold. Despite being polar opposites, she did find herself respecting the man and would even help him with his research when needed.

'''Enemies'''
:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> NONE

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''History'''</div>===

<center>'''Please note that all information below is common knowledge that Odette may share depending on her relationship with people; however there are still many secrets behind many decisions and those must be learned IC'''</center>

'''The Hole See of Ishgard''' (0-22)

<spoiler>
Odette was born to a Highborn family in Ishgard, the youngest child of two, the older being her brother Clauvort.
She was doted on generously by her parents and especially her brother as the siblings became inseparable. Her early childhood was a free spirited one as she was quite the tomboy, always getting into brawls with other children and wanting to be the focus of her parents, yearning for their affections despite their busy schedules with family matters.

As she grew, family affairs became more apparent as well as her heritage. She got home-schooled and would almost never leave the family residence, much too busy with her studies as well as prohibited. Her merry nature toned down over the years as she was groomed to be the perfect noblewoman. She blossomed into a beautiful woman, a feast for the eyes for any man and woman alike; at all parties all eyes being on her despite wanting to merely blend in. With her social status, her smarts and her looks, she remained modest and easily approachable.
Despite all the years of grooming, she still cherished the little adventuress in her heart, always yearning for more that her family could ever offer her. Clauvort was well aware of her hidden desires and at times he would even let her indulge as he would take her to the woods with him on his hunting trips with his friends.

Their parents didn't take too kindly to their escapades and paid a closer eye to Odette, and decided to put her Atheneum Arcaneum, wanting to offer her some way entertainment while making certain that she retained her dignity and image. It did work for a short while as she learned of Astronomy and she quickly excelled in the arts, able to read the constellations with ease as well as utilize their magicks. Apart from her usual social studies, languages, etiquette and diplomacy, she was also taught to play the piano, harpsichord and the harp; particularly excelling in the latter. Her schedule was kept busy and full, with the intention to not give her ideas nor reasons to rebel while at the same time shaping her into the perfect woman; one that would bring pride and honour to the family.
</spoiler>

'''Cost of Freedom''' (22-24)

<spoiler>
Reaching the age of twenty-two, and of the perfect age, Odette learned from her parents that they had given her hand in marriage to a fellow nobleman of the name Zeauraut Traideux. The news hit her hard and she never recovered from it, dreading the day where the union would take place to a total stranger. Clauvort told her that Zeauraut was a dear friend of his and even vouched for the man, but she would have none of it, crying and yearning for her freedom after so many years of being trapped in a silver cage.
[[File:odetteinishgard.png|500px|right|]]
Adding to her arranged marriage, many other things came to light which didn't sit well with her. The strictness of the nobility, the political games, the silly banquets and word plays at them, plotting, marrying only in between the higher-ups... She had enough of it all. Day in and day out she fell into a deeper depression, neglecting herself and Clauvort decided to act, unable to see his baby sister in such a state. He convinced their parents to let her venture freely around Ishgard as long as in his presence and they allowed it, thus, he would take her out almost on a daily basis. It did help as she got to indulge a bit in her brief freedom, as well as being away from the family residence. It was during their walks together that she was made aware visually of the poor state in which Ishgard was. The Brume in particular hurt her greatly. She was never aware that the social segregation was this evident and it made her feel guilty, as she had no right to complain about her life as she had anything she ever wanted, apart from freedom. She would try to convince herself that it was all in her head, she had no reason to complain, and yet she couldn't help herself. As the day of the planned union loomed closer, her mood swings became worse and worse and she would start considering ways to break it off and stop it. All ideas were absurd if not even dangerous both to herself and her family and she would spend all her free time plotting some way to free herself.

During one of her walks with Clauvort, they ran into a rarely seen group of adventurers from Ul'dah. Slightly shorter statures, darker skin as well as a different language, they instantaneously intrigued Odette and she immediately approached them with Clauvort following suite. The entire group engaged in conversation and they even went to The Forgotten Knight to talk about Eorzea and all the details of the realm which were alien to her. Even her brother enjoyed the talks and as he was distracted by a server woman at the inn, Odette then spoke to the adventurer's in a different tone, begging them to help her. It shocked them at first for her to be so desperate as to trust complete strangers but they understood that she was desperate and they all agreed to assist her. When Clauvort returned to them, the simple talk resumed.

The same night, Odette prepared herself for her escape as she had agreed with the men from Ul'dah. As agreed, one of them came to see her under her window and she threw herself out of it to be caught by him. They then made a run for it and rejoined the rest of the party. She had left no note or indication at all of her whereabouts to her family, leaving them to believe what they willed. The men quickly dressed her like an Ul'dahn to conceal her real identity and they bound her ears back with a sash to make her look like a Hyur. They fetched their chocobos and Odette sat behind one of the men on his as they approached the gates of the Steps of Faith, and the guards let them leave without without questions asked. She was relieved more and more as slowly Ishgard became but a dot in the distance. She was saddened by her immediate departure, particularly feeling it for her brother but she wouldn't risk telling him of her plans as she knew he would've tried to stop her.

Her saviours took her with them to Ul'dah where they assisted her briefly before leaving to continue their journey.
For the first time, she was left alone to deal with things herself, without anyone's help. While it was liberating, fear set in as she was made aware of just how little she knew of the world and how it worked. She stood out immensely in Ul'dah and it was not attention she wanted, terrified that sooner or later she would be found out and her family would come seeking her out. With money to spare, she checked herself in at the local inn where she remained for a few days before venturing out anew.
</spoiler>

'''A Place to Call Home''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:Auroraeorzea.png|500px|left|]]
On one of her walks, she ventured into the Goblet and came across an establishment named Aurora Eorzea, intrigued, she went inside.
There she met [[K'alayah Xiaan]], a Sunkeeper Miqo'te as well as [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]], a Moonkeeper. She had never seen Miqo'tes' from up close and it caught her attention as she would study them from a distance. The two approached her and exchange a few words, explaining that the house belonged to the Sunkeeper as she ran a mercenary service there as well as a restaurant in the lower levels. Odette had never met mercenaries in her life and it was a completely new experience to her. The Miqo'tes' were curious of her whereabouts but she didn't want to say too much and she simply explained that she had left Ishgard. Once the Moonkeeper left, [[K'alayah Xiaan]] was quick to expose the woman, taking notice of her mannerism as well as her manner of speech and her attire. With no reason to hide, Odette confessed to the woman that she had abandoned her past in search of freedom but that she was terrified that her family was searching for her. While her family did not know she had ran away, the possibility of being kidnapped was highly probable.
The Sunkeeper reassured her stating that she was safe within Aurora Eorzea and she allowed her to stay as long as she needed. Odette was truly grateful and she would exchange a few more words with the woman, although clearly sensing that there was more that met the eye. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] appeared particularly interested in the Elezen, often making hints at her beauty as well as engaging in small flirts, which always had Odette blushing and becoming flustered, completely not used to such attention while the Miqo'te found it endearing.

Staying at the establishment, Odette felt much more at ease, especially as she made friends with many of its members which substituted her family for her in a certain way. During one of her rests, she met a new member of the place named [[Nene Kotake]] who was an Au Ra. Odette had never met Au Ra and she would also study the woman closely with genuine interest. She was soft-spoken and said very little, speaking in a third-person view, but she didn't seem to mind. While talking, [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] made and appearance together with [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. Odette admitted to them that she had been doing her utmost to educate herself on Eorzea, including the cultures, races, history and even foods. She then noted that the Moonkeeper's name meant that he was a second born. It surprised him to see someone even make that remark and he opened up a bit about his past, admitting that he had lost his older brother very early on. Odette immediately apologized, not wanting to bring back painful memories at the time but he luckily did not seem to mind.
[[File:Tiamosandodetteexploring.png|500px|right|]]
Next morning, she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and the two talked more about romance and their ideas of partnerships, much to Odette's embarrassment. It was then that Odette learned that the Sunkeeper was a poly-amorous person, a thing which she had never even heard of back in Ishgard. [[K'alayah Xiaan]] expressed explicit interest in the Elezen but Odette definitely was not interested in romance at the time, especially with another woman who was so open about sexual relations. It was much too knew and the memories of having escaped an arranged marriage were too fresh. It was then that some adventurer walked in and Odette, wanting to be a good host, followed the man to greet him downstairs at the restaurant area. His name was [[Tiamos Loren]] and he shocked her great as he spoke Old Elezen to her. It made her very happy but at the same time suspicious. The two engaged in casual conversation but he remained secretive of his own whereabouts, and as did she about her past. However, they did enjoy each others' company and he offered to show her a bit of Thanalan. They walked all the way to the Silver Bazaar where Odette confronted him, demanding to know why he spoke Old Elezen and why he seemed to know so much about Ishgard, suspicious and believing him to be some spy sent to find her by her family. He easily diffused the tensions, reassuring her that he had no knowledge of her or her family, stating that he had no interest in oppressing anyone's will. She was quick to apologize, ashamed of her quick assumptions but he cheered her up, not wanting her to feel bad about it. The two of them talked some more as they observed the sea, something she had never seen in her life back in Ishgard, making her more and more aware of how little she actually knew.

Dawn came anew and Odette ran into [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and he offered to tell her some more about Moonkeepers to help her with her desire to learn more of all the details required to live in Eorzea. The talk quickly shifted into more sensitive waters as talks of his brother reemerged. She was quick to comfort the man, not wanting him to force himself but he did not mind, appreciating her tender words. It was then that another person joined in, that being a Viera named [[Vildola Fyth]]. She had never met or even seen a Viera, but had read a bit about them. The two quickly established lots of common ground, both being foreigners in a new land and needed to adjust. It made Odette very happy to have a friend, one whom understood her perfectly. The Viera also appeared quite content as the two women bonded closely. Odette showed her the library, and there [[Vildola Fyth]] spotted the piano and sat at it, intrigued by the musical instrument as she confessed to always having wanted to learn how to play. Odette was happy to hear that as it was the perfect exchange, she told her that she'd teach her to play the piano in exchange for some basic botany skills. The Viera agreed. Coming back from a walk in the Goblet, she ran into an unknown man back at the establishment, but she remained cordial and soon learned he was [[Taahir Al-Nazar]]. He told her that he was in charge of the navy force belonging to the guild which really impressed her, while at the same time being a merchant from the Thanalan desert. She however refused to open up about her detailed reasons for being part of the guild herself but she did enjoy the casual conversation. He then mentioned of some hot-baths right next door and proposed that they go there to relax and she agreed, quite curious to see them as she had never been to such a place. The hot waters were truly warming and soothing and she enjoyed them greatly, especially with such marvelous company. The two continued talking and it was quickly made apparent that he seemed to like her and he asked her out to dinner. As they finished to bathe, they headed back to Aurora Eorzea for their dinner date, heading downstairs to the restaurant area. While eating and bonding some more, he suggested that she could assist the guild with her healing, assisting perhaps with the sick or injured. It immediately caught her interest and she agreed, only after consulting it with [[K'alayah Xiaan]] beforehand.

Word came from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] that the company was required to assist her in retrieving some artifact. While odd, Odette did join, together with [[Taluh'to Lanbatal]] and [[Amberlenne Furieaux]]. From outside of the company, [[Tiamos Loren]] and [[Sini'to Shadar]] joined in to assist on the quest. They ventured out into the Thanalan desert and were quickly transported to some sort of castle gates while getting split from [[K'alayah Xiaan]] as she got sucked into some hole and then [[Tiamos Loren]] who was trying to save her. Four of them left, they ventured into the residence and were quickly exposed to some odd childish voice who appeared to be testing them as they were put through a huge ordeal. They found rooms iterated with worms, which disgusted Odette greatly and had her sick to her stomach for the entire time. Some spirits in the courtyard were trying to sell their wares, which consisted of worms, and she avoided them at all cost. There were five immense towers visible from the courtyard and they went into each one, discovering many secrets of the place, among them weird weapons which seemed to suck out the aether out of anyone who held them and more worms. In four towers they found magical objects which disappeared upon touching and then the gates to the fifth tower opened. At some point they found the missing due and they all ventured into the fifth tower where they found some book which [[K'alayah Xiaan]] has been hunting for as well as the origin of the childish voice, a young Miqo'te boy. He seemed amused and wanted to play more with them but the party took the book and departed, noticing that they couldn't even land one hit on the lad. Immediately after the entire ordeal, [[Tiamos Loren]] and Odette got talking by the waters of Forgotten Springs. The conversation at first was about the event and what they went through but during the talk, Odette picked up on a few lines and hints from him, gently suggesting that he wasn't from Eorzea, if even the realm. She quickly blew his cover and seeing no other way, and at the same time not deeming has as a threat or having malicious intent, he confessed to her his origins. He was from a completely different world, one where wyrms were even looked up to and treated as wise creatures, and people followed their words. This surprised Odette and she then explained to him the views on dragons on Eorzea and they were the completely opposite. Hearing the story of this world, he decided to take it upon himself to form a company named The Azure Blades to assist those in need. it surprised her and she questioned him for the reason, as it made no sense for a foreigner to assist them; but he remained adamant. It was quite nice to hear and she gladly offered her help in the matter.

The next day she ran into [[K'alayah Xiaan]] and she asked her permission about establishing and infirmary in the guild, to which the Miqo'te agreed gladly. The talk turned a bit darker as they consulted on matters from days prior in the desert, Odette still shaking off the unpleasant feeling. During this talk, the woman confessed about her own corruption within as she revealed her eye being the source; explaining that she was seeking a cure and that the book they had recovered had high chances to help her.
[[File:Sharlayanlibrary.png|500px|left|]]
Days went by and Odette had inspected all the books in the Aurora Eorzea regarding the realm. Boredom set in as well as the nervousness as she did not feel yet very confident in her new home and that was when she heard of a meet-up at the Sharlayan Institute in Gridania. Curious, she decided to pay it a visit, hoping that she might find more resources to educate herself on Eorzea and it's culture. Her friends helped her in teleporting there, leaving her to enjoy the evening on her own as she found the place in the Lavender Beds. She immediately got greeted by a rather obnoxious setting as some mad chocobo was set loose downstairs and was causing havoc. Doing her best to just avoid the ruckus, she settled herself by the bar where she engaged in conversation with an Au Ra and a fellow Ishgardian man. She was truly happy to meet one of her own, although his sharp tongue and witty replies left her rather astounded and speechless most of the time. It was intimidating on many levels and a bit unpleasant to her ears so she shifted away. [[Tiamos Loren]] then appeared and she greeted him warmly. He expressed interest in books regarding Aether manifestation and they both went downstairs to the library to begin their search but were cut off by [[Tiny Blue]]. While odd, the Lalafell was truly endearing and the three of them engaged in conversation, only interrupted as another Elezen made his appearance, apologizing for his intrusion. The group immediately dispersed a bit around the library to not block the way to the man, Odette meanwhile analyzing his appearance as it was rather clear to see that he appeared to be Ishgardian. She greeten him in Old Elezen and it immediately got his interest, also identifying her as kin and the two engaged in talk. He introduced himself as [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], called Corvo by friends. She at first struggle to even use his nickname, but she did her utmost to correct herself despite her slip ups. [[Tiamos Loren]] was quick to assist the man in finding a book regarding astral plains and also regarding the beast tribes located in the Shroud, while Odette kept herself buy by researching books about Eorzea overall. She located one on Eorzean holidays and she went away a bit to have a peaceful read which got interrupted by [[Tiny Blue]] as he jumped onto her desk. A tad annoyed and sated with the book, she returned the book to it's original place when the Elezen man came back downstairs and offered his assistance to her, stating that he had been in Eorzea for over two years. She was elated and truly grateful and he did assist her with all her questions. He then posed her a question, asking if she fancied a walk outside under the stars and she gladly took the man's offer, the two leaving the library to talk more peacefully outside.

As they walked, she felt someone staring at the back of her head and then spotted [[Tiamos Loren]] who appeared to be following them. The Elezen confronted him, inquiring as to the reason for following or if he misunderstood his relationship with Odette, to which she blushed, immediately stating that they weren't a couple. She reassured the Huyr that they were only going for a walk and after much debate he conceded and left them and [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] then invited him together with Odette to some time come by his company for a drink. As the Hyur left them, the two Elezen continued their walk in the Lavender Beds, enjoying the night breeze and sky as the stars shone upon them. They reach an lavender field near the waters and the man then turned to her, offering his hand, asking if she perhaps wished to retreat somewhere more private. She did not mind either way, enjoying the company quite a lot, especially as he was very helpful and truly a gentleman which was a nice change from what she saw lately from the opposite gender. For a moment she felt herself loosing grip on reality as he talked but she snapped back as he called her and they continued their walk; genuinely enjoying her time spent with the man as they talked through the night.
[[File:mistouting.png|500px|right|]]
Enjoying her last outing to the library, Odette wanted to mingle some more, seeing it also as a good way to learn the customs and cultures on Eorzea. And so, she ventured to the Mists where there was a dinning event at a restaurant there, including some side entertainment. She found the place without any complications and once inside, she ran into an old face, [[Malrinn Nures]], a lady she had met two days prior at the Sharlayan Institute. The woman appeared quite happy to see her and she sat opposite her. Odette met her talking companion, a Miqo'te lady named [[Reyza Blackwater]] who had one of the most eloquent and beautiful voices and phrasing she had ever heard. The feeling seemed to be mutual as the Miqo'te also expressed curiosity about Odette's whereabouts as it was clear from a glance that she stood out from the crowd in both looks and mannerisms and Odette explained that she hailed from the Holy See of Ishgard, which definitely got the Miqo'te's interest. They talked a little bit about Ishgard and then the talk shifted to more casual matters. On stage, suddenly, a marriage was announced and everyone applauded and congratulated the couple which was to be wed; Odette day dreaming a bit, voicing that she found it romantic to be married. [[Malrinn Nures]] was quick to counter that, clearly being rather negative and she explained that she had broken off with her partner the same day. Odette immediately felt guilty and sat beside her, giving her a side hug, wanting to cheer her up at least a bit. The evening went by casually, and Odette met another Miqo'te by the name of [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. While they did not talk much at all, the moment he mentioned [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] he got her attention and he asked her if she knew him, to which she nodded. He expressed immediate concern over this acquaintance, but she appeared adamant about her trust in the fellow Ishgardian, going as far as stating that she found him dashing and a true gentleman. It relieved the man luckily and the topic was dropped. One of the entertainer's at the establishment started seeking volunteers to go on stage but everyone rejected. [[Malrinn Nures]] joked that she could make a drinking competition, to which Odette commented that she had never drunk in her life. The Au Ra immediately ordered a bottle of red. A prayer was offered to Halone in preparation as the bottle was uncorked. The first few sips were agonizing, finding the flavour rather revolting and much too overpowering but as she kept going, it dulled her senses, taste buds included and she started to drink which amazing speed. The Au Ra had a most jolly time watching the Elezen down almost an entire bottle on her own in one go. Odette, unused to the effects, struggled to discern her surroundings but still did her best to remain a lady, deeming it best to return home. Getting up, the room started to spin and she struggled to make her way upstairs. [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] both assisted her, asking where she leaved. The Goblet was quite far and they did not want to risk teleportation with someone in her state, and so they decided to leave her in Lominsa at the Drowning Wench.
Odette woke up the next day, sick to the stomach and with no will to live, her very first hang over took over her body. She had no idea where she was or what had even happened, her last memory being talking with the girls back at the table in the Mist. After emptying the contents of her stomach multiple times, she did come across a note left by her friend, where she explained what had happened as well as where she was. She was most relieved to find that piece of information although the guilt was immense. She had no desire to drink to a stupor and it did taint her image. She vowed to never drink again.

Still dazed but intent on returning home, Odette teleported back to the Goblet however she mistook wards and ended up in the wrong one. Wandering lost, she came across a house with a familiar name 'Raven's Heart'. It immediately reminded her of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] and as she inspected the property, she found him in the front yard. He seemed shocked to see her there but pleased and the two exchanged a few pleasantries before heading inside. He asked her how come she found the place and she admitted it was pure coincidence. The man proceeded to explain the entire point of the Raven's Heart, what they did and what were their goals, including mentioning that they had ties to Ishgard which did rub her the wrong way a bit, concerned for her safety but she did not voice it. He then gave her some recruitment papers which shocked her but he kindly coerced her into it, requesting her assistance as a fellow Ishgardian and friend. Odette put some thought into the matter and she was definitely happy to find a purpose as it would help her in integrating with people in Eorzea as well as perhaps make a difference. She signed the papers but under the condition that her family name be left out if she were ever to be mentioned to any Ishgardians. He did not seem to mind and the deal was sealed. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] gave her a tour of the place and she then ran into [[Vildola Fyth]] who was looking for her. The man learned that the Viera was also an outsider and a fellow healer and so he also accepted her as Odette's help as they quickly decided that Odette would assist in the infirmary. Once he left, the two ladies got talking, expressing their shared concerned over Aurora Eorzea and the two agreed that it was not the place for them.

Odette returned to Aurora Eorzea and wrote them a letter, mostly addressed to [[K'alayah Xiaan]]. She thanked her and everyone else at the house for their kindness, but also expressing that she felt the need to move elsewhere, finding herself an ill fit in their current company. While in reality it was true, most of all she simply wanted to draw a clear line and stop the sexual advancements. She left them a box of Ishgardian bonbons and left, explaining that she was to leave together with [[Vildola Fyth]] but that they would remain in touch.
[[File:ravensheartoutside.png|500px|left|]]
She returned to Raven's Heart with the Viera, looking forward to making herself useful so she went to the infirmary to inspect their stock and possibly add more to it. As her friend left, Odette also went out to stock up on a few medical supplies. Upon her return, she met many new faces, among them [[Arthain Garon]]. He convinced her to go introduce herself to the others and so she did, meeting a few other members of the place, among them she met [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]]. He did mention her drunkenness from the other day and she glared for once, quickly retreating back outside; far too ashamed of the event to want it mentioned. Outside she ran into [[Arthain Garon]] and the two got to know each other very well, finding they had a long in common. He seemed quite happy to see her not being scared of him, although the reason was unknown to her for such an assumption. She gladly observed him practicing his magicks when they got interrupted by [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. The Elezen greeted them and while talking mentioned the Au Ra's brother, which made the man storm off back inside. Odette was absolutely confused but the Elezen reassured her it was nothing she said. The two exchanged a few warm words before he took his leave and she rejoined the others inside. There, she ran again into the Au Ra man who apparently had broken his finger. Together with [[Edgar Wyndham]], a man she had also met back at the Sharlayan Library, they made their way with him to the infirmary to assist him. They all then proceeded to explore the house as it appeared some rooms were brand new. It was then that [[Edgar Wyndham]] suddenly proposed a history lesson to them out of nowhere but the Au Ra declined, retreating for the night, thus Odette gladly took it upon herself to listen. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] joined on the lesson about Thanalan history but Odette did not last long, feeling much too exhausted and so she retreated for the night.

The next morning, while browsing the library for books on Thanalan history, wanting to better herself especially after the lesson from the day before. As she found a book, two people also were residing in the library at the time; a man named [[Kaida Higashikaze]] and a petite Au Ra lady named [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. The woman seemed to walk on pins and needles, seeming nervous all the time. Odette exchanged a few kind words with her although the man remained relatively silent until the Au Ra left them and Odette tried her best to engage in conversation with him. It took some time and patience to get the man talking but once he did, the conversation was one of the best she had ever had. He expressed interest in her wanting to learn more as well as her culture, them comparing each others' heights among other things and engaging in friendly banter. The talk took a turn as he asked her of her opinion of [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]]. She explained that she found him to be a good man, the true ideal of an Ishgardian nobleman. [[Kaida Higashikaze]] then asked if he had tried to bed her. Odette's mind exploded at the insinuation, immediately countering that and explaining her reasons for being in Eorzea, which defended the Highborn man. He appeared understanding, but he did tease her a bit more, amused by her blush and flustered nature. It took her some time to settle down but he was definitely respectful, but at the same time he remained playful and flirtatious even. He would ask her of what she wanted in life as she seemed to be a pure bookworm, asking her even of romance as she admitted to reading leisure romances. She admitted to having a great interest in such books but that in real life she had not the chance. In revenge, she asked him the same. He did not mind her question nor her curiosity and he explained that he was not taught in romance nor courtship and that it all seemed daunting to him. Odette comforted him and they would even start to joke around, wondering who would be first to find the right person for them.
[[File:VarrizandOdette.png|500px|right|]]
Wanting some time for herself and away from books for once, Odette ventured to Ul'dah where she decided to go to the airship landing as it was a peaceful area when compared to the bustling streets of the city. There, she met a certain Moonkeeper named [[Varriz Relanah]] who was the first to engaged in conversation with her. It took her by surprise but she wasn't one to turn down a nice talk, especially if it worked in her favour to adapt and mingle with people. The two sat down at a table and continued to talk into late hours of the night, not even noticing the time pass. He quickly figured out her origins, if not even only due to her looks but so did her accent and her tales give her away. She quite enjoyed the talk, learning that he was a travelling merchant and he was there to greet freshly arrived people in Ul'dah, while at the same time trying to sell them his wares. While shrewd, she did not see it as a fault but more a smart way to benefit. It relieved him to know that she did not think any lesser of him. Despite the pleasant exchange, she did not fully open up about her past as he was still a stranger and she could not trust anyone, and so she did not reveal her family name. In between the discussions, he would throw in compliments as well as more spicy topics which each time sent her head for a spin, going silent and unable to respond until she calmed down. No matter how often it happened with him or in the past, it was something she would still struggle with as it always got her embarrassed. She told him of her issues on the more intimate topics, explaining her past occurrences with [[K'alayah Xiann]] and it left him rather shocked, perhaps then understanding why she seemed to have her guard up at times. They talked of what her desires might have been and she openly stated that she had none, apart from her freedom which she had already attained but now that she had it, she had no idea what to do with it. It was then that he offered to help her use that newly found freedom, suggesting to show her around Ul'dah as well as Thanalan. She was truly content to receive such an offer and she immediately agreed and the two exchanged linkshell frequencies to remain in touch. As the hour got late, Odette decided it was best to return home to the Goblet, fearing that [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] might get worried as she wasn't one to remain away for long. She excused herself and bid the man farewell and the two parted ways.
</spoiler>

'''Facing the Past''' (24)

<spoiler>
[[File:tiamosandodetterh.png|500px|right|]]
Days went by and Odette ever so slowly would adapt to her new life in Thanalan, still struggling but otherwise making progress. With the gil she brought with herself from Ishgard, she put it forth to purchase an apartment in the Goblet, mind set to make her home in Eorzea. She would move between her new home and the new company, finding a comfortable routine in the coming days and it did bring a sense of much needed relief to find stability. On one of her ventures to Ul'dah, she ran into [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Quicksand and they quickly caught up with one another. He appeared to be busy as ever, and it was somehow nice to hear that he was never changing. He then asked her in turn, and her face said it all. While content, she admitted that she had word that her father was ill and that it did not seem to be some mere cold. She explained that she was planning to head to Ishgard to see what she could learn of his state while still keeping her cover. He offered lots of advice and she truly appreciated it, even wanting to go there to research her acquired information but that she declined, stating that she wanted to go herself and see it with her own eyes. He did not pressurize, but remained concerned for her safety. Changing topic, she told him that she joined Sir [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] company which surprised him although hearing her opinion of the man, he felt a bit guilty for judging him as quickly as he had. He expressed on seeing this place as he did get an open invitation from the man and Odette immediately offered to take him there, adding that she also had recently purchased an apartment in the area if he also wanted to see it. The two of them made their way to the Goblet, Odette proud to actually have memorized the way despite being an outsider. She showed him the company house from the inside and he expressed concerned over the relics which lay around, completely unguarded. She agreed and was fine with delivering the concern to [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] but [[Tiamos Loren]] said he would do it, as the concern was his to begin with. She showed him the downstairs area, explaining the origin of the books and he found the collection quite impressive. Odette then proposed to him that they move to her apartment as it was also in the area, and so they did, reaching the apartment building within a few moments. The building seemed almost abandoned as very few tenants lived in it, but it did not bother her one bit, quite enjoying the quiet. It also was a good point as it meant she could play her piano without annoying her neighbors. Once inside, they engaged in more friendly talks, finding more and more in common even among the little things. [[Tiamos Loren]] would at times try to pat her back but each time she stiffened up and he immediately apologized for the lack of personal space but she quickly explained herself, simply saying that she wasn't used to any intimate touches other than from family members. It did calm him down. She then mentioned his offered help regarding Ishgard, asking him if he would mind to assist her and he gladly took up the request. After a few more hours of casual talks, the two split ways as he decided to venture to Ishgard as soon as possible while she would join him up a day later on.

The coming day, Odette made her way towards Ishgard via chocobo. She was in no hurry and she did enjoy the trip itself to get there. Once before the Steps of Faith, she had to think up a way to enter the city, aware that she hadn’t really put much thought into it. She could see the guards stopping and questioning visitors, regardless of rank or race and it got her worried. Getting off her chocobo and with reigns in her hand, she made her way towards the guards calmly and once right in front of them, she gave the chocobo a hard smack to its rear, causing it to go into a frenzy as it rushed into the guards, distracting them instantly. Among the ruckus, she ran inside the city, slipping past the guards and any other suspicious eyes.
Once inside the city, she spent a good few hours walking the streets, indulging in the nostalgia and the memories of her old home. While she did not support her family, she did love Ishgard and if it were not for her family, she would have stayed. Not wanting to arouse suspicions, she avoid interacting with people, wanting to hear any news about her family anonymously, ideally as a passerby. Unfortunately, it did not help at all. The only news she heard was that her father was stepping down as head of the household, giving the leadership to her brother Clauvort. Disheartened, she continued walking the streets in hopes of getting a better lead and that was when she found [[Tiamos Loren]] at the Jewelled Crozier. He was shocked to see her there and clearly he was not approving of her presence but she stood her ground and the two moved to a more secluded place to speak at ease without prying eyes. He asked her if she found out anything and she did share the little bit she learned. It confirmed what he also managed to find out but it got them nowhere. The brainstorming started as the man wanted to somehow meet her brother to ask him about the state of the family, ideally by luring him out. Odette had no idea how to achieve this as his hunting trips were common but irregular and they were back to square one. She even started to debate showing herself to her family but [[Tiamos Loren]] adamantly prohibited her. While ashamed of her idea, she did come up with a better one, informing him that her brother’s best friend went every day to Saint Reymanaud's Cathedral and that for certain he would know everything. He agreed and the two of them made their way to the Cathedral. Once inside, Odette described the man to her friend as best as she could, stating that she had no idea of his looks but she knew his family’s emblem as well as his name. Luck on their side, at one of the benches, there was a man seated with said emblem on his cape. [[Tiamos Loren]] told Odette to stay out of sight while he did the talking although she seemed willing to immediately back out of the plan. He snapped at her, criticizing her for having no back bone, telling her to stand her ground and to go through with it. While harsh, it worked and she hid behind the pillars of the cathedral, eavesdropping from a safe distance even if the man had no idea how she looked like. Once the sermon ended, [[Tiamos Loren]] approached the man, requesting to speak to Zeauraut Traideux. The man clearly had no love for outsiders but he granted him the audience once they stepped outside the cathedral. The Highborn immediately introduced himself as Zeauraut Traideux, heir to the Traideux House. The Midlander introduced himself as well and the two engaged in conversation. Zeauraut was a sharp man and he did not buy anything the man was telling him until he spoke of the Dragonsong War. He lied saying that he was a good friend of House Veaureaux but that ever since the war, the house cut all ties with him and he desires to know what is happening with it. Zeauraut, while not fully convinced, he did tell him that the entire house has been in chaos after the disappearance of Mademoiselle Odette. [[Tiamos Loren]] knew the overall picture of her departure but he never knew the details and it caught him off guard. The Highborn explained to him that simply one night she woman disappeared into thin air, the family suspecting that she was kidnapped for some ransom but no one ever came forth demanding money. They did send scouts to try and locate her but they found nothing, slowly beginning to suspect that she had been killed. The Midlander was not aware of the details and it got him asking for the reason for this disappearance, aware that she was to wed a man before she was gone. Zeauraut’s eyes grew severe at those words as he stated that he was the man she was to marry. [[Tiamos Loren]] had no idea that the man he was speaking to was Odette’s fiancée, however, speaking to him and learning how he was, he could not fault her for leaving. Zeauraut added that now the Lord of the house, Asoix, is passing the leadership to his son, Clauvort due to health issues and the Midlander immediately offered his help in healing the man but the Elezen refused, voicing that the family did not wish to be involved with any outsiders and that most likely it was why he was cast away to begin with. [[Tiamos Loren]] agreed, backing down and the two man parted ways after a few more words, among them the Highborn telling him that his reputation in the family’s eyes could be restored if he were to know anything about Odette. Once the Highborn was away from earshot, Odette came out of hiding, moving towards her friend telling him that most likely this explained to him why she no longer resided in Ishgard.
[[File:Fireplacetogether.png|500px|left|]]
He definitely understood her perfectly, drained by that conversation with the arrogant noble. Odette, finally after months, she felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders as her eyes became glossy from joy, needing a moment to calm herself as she closed her eyes. He took her hand into his, content to see her relieved and for once she did not flinch at the touch. Quite on the contrary, she returned it by giving his hand a squeeze. Happy to see her in such state, he said they should return home but she stopped him, asking for just one more day in Ishgard as she was still homesick and she wanted to enjoy it some more, adding that she had a craving for Ishgardian tea. He laughed but agreed and the two of them went to the Forgotten Knight. As they awaited their tea, Odette would warm up her frozen hands by the fireplace, joking that she had gotten spoiled by Thanalan weather. [[Tiamos Loren]] joined her by the fire and they got talking on a deeper level. She expressed her undying gratitude to him, calling him her guardian angel as he was always there for her no matter what and he never wanted anything in exchange. He explained that he always sought to do good no matter what, which is what he did all the time until he changed places, clearly suggesting that he wasn’t going to stay in Eorzea. It saddened her and she admitted that she did not wish to see him gone to which he replied that she would be long gone by the time he would leave. It shocked her to hear that as Elezen were one of the longest living races and it made no sense to her but she decided not to ask further. Instead, she pitied him, saying that it had to be hard to live on while loved ones grew old and withered away. He agreed and it was evident it hurt him as the man would begin to shed tears. She was quick to comfort him, hands moving to his shoulders, saying that she did treasure their friendship to matter if it was only a blink for him. He reassured her that she was not a blink to him, saying that she shone just as brightly as the other stars in his sky. It took her aback but she appreciated his words greatly. During this heartfelt conversation, he did say that he would not mind if she wanted to offer him more than just mere friendship. This statement hit her hard as she had never looked at him, or anyone for that matter, in a romantic way and it was a novelty to her. He did not pressure her, saying it was her decision but he was patient and willing to wait. He had always been anything but kind and supportive of her and she truly valued their friendship, but actually perceiving the man as a romantic interest was not easy but she wasn’t opposed to the idea, willing to open her mind and perhaps try a different approach. The two spent the rest of the evening sat by the fire, sat closely together as they both relaxed after the long and eventful day.

The next day, Odette did ask him to return home first as she did not want to arouse suspicions at the gates when leaving the city. She arrived alone and so did he; seeing them together could arouse suspicions. Especially if Zeauraut could be observing him without their knowledge. Although not content with the idea, he agreed and departed the city, leaving Odette alone to enjoy her one day at home. As Odette strolled down the streets of Ishgard alone, she felt nostalgic and perhaps a bit home sick, but she did enjoy the walk, taking in the sights and feeling like a child anew. Wanting to somehow assist her family, she decided to have a look at the Atheneum Arcaneum and check if anyone knew anything more there. Luckily, no one recognized her but many faces were familiar to her, all apart from one. A lone man sat by the table, seemingly sucked in completely by a book he had laying before him. She took advantage of the fact that he was a stranger, aware that he would not recognize her identity. He ignored her completely but it was evident he knew something of the state of her father and she demanded to know. As he kept his answers brief and cold, she lost her nerves and gave away her name to the man, wanting to justify the reason why she wanted and needed to know the current state of her father. The man definitely did not appreciate the interruption and instead, he asked her how much she knew of aether manipulation. The query came as a shock but she confessed that she studied the arcane and so he put her to work with a book, asking her to copy all the lines referring to ice elemental aether. Odette has no words but feeling absolutely defeated she obliged and did as he instructed, transcribing the text. Once done, she gave it back to him and then he finally confessed that he was hired to assist in curing her father and that was what he was working on currently. It opened her eyes greatly and she immediately felt horrible for her reaction from before. She apologized to him and he added that her father was safe, informing her that he was going to get better. Ecstatic, she thanked him and asked for his name and he introduced himself as [[Cesar Boulon]]. Relieved, Odette left the place and her feet brought her before the Forgotten Knight again and while she pondered whether to go in or not, she spotted a familiar and very unexpected face sitting by the fountain, immediately recognizing [[Sini'to Shadar]] after the events at the Sagolii Desert. The two exchanged a few words when man then spoke to them, making fun of Miqo'te behinds. Odette held back a laughter but as the two men continued their discussion, she couldn't hold back no more and burst into merry laughter. After some odd tug-o-war, they all went inside the Forgotten Knight to get away from the cold. Once inside, the Elezen man introduced himself as [[Valentin Vulaire]] and Odette introduced herself, leaving the last name out, and also her Miqo'te friend. [[Sini'to Shadar]] offered to get them all drinks and he soon came back with a large teapot and a few cups. As they all talked, enjoying the warmth compared to the freezing cold outside, another familiar face appeared, [[Maetiwyb Abylwaen]]. Odette greeted her warmly and urged her to join them at the table. She offered her cup to the woman, wanting to be cordial, and went over to the bar area to get herself a new one and there she met [[Simeon Sibaruse]], a fellow Highborn. While not very chatty, she invited him to join their table and he gladly obliged. His attention got quickly snatched by [[Sini'to Shadar]] as the two would engage in deep theology talks about Halone as well as the reasons behind the Miqo'te's decision to become a priest of the Fury. The discussion was rather hard and Odette merely listened, not wanting to intervene as they both appeared rather passionate about their beliefs. Odette went outside, cup in hand, wanting to check the weather. She slipped her gloves and hat back on and upon opening the door, she was still met with snow. She was about to go back inside but then [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to have followed her, so she stayed and they two exchanged a few words. He was quick to annoy her as he slid her hat over her eyes, and she decided to put it away, feeling that he would only do it again. Among the talk, he asked her why she no longer seemed to live in Ishgard, as she was definitely a Highborn; an element which was evident at mere glance. She wasn't about to talk openly about it on the streets of said city, and with a stranger, although he made it quite clear that he had no interest whatsoever of causing her issues. Putting her hat back on, she asked him to follow her and they moved to the walls of the Brume. With no one there, they could talk freely. She didn't go into the details but she did mention that she left her family for private matters, but that she came back because she heard her father was ill. But she was unable to approach the mansion, aware that the guards would recognize her immediately and that would've been a big problem. He seemed to feel for her and even offered assistance but she thanked him, aware that nothing could be done. Despite his kind-nature, he seemed to have some need to annoy people, or perhaps just her. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would get much too close to her, alarm bells going off in her head as he'd toy around with her, his fingers tracing along her chin and being dangerously close but she stood her ground. It got her absolutely flustered and he appeared to enjoy seeing her in such torment. Between the horrible teasing and earning a nickname 'petal' from him, he mentioned that he too was seeking to return to Thanalan so the two of them agreed to return together the following morning.
[[File:Valandodettemeet.png|500px|right|]]
Morning came and as agreed, she met with [[Valentin Vulaire]], the two heading towards the chocobo stables where they got a chocobo to share. They decided to have her take the lead and that they's switch halfway. All the time she could hear some loud metal clanking in his bag and when she asked him, he wouldn't answer, letting her guess but no matter what she said, it did not seem to be it. As they climbed onto the bird and made their way towards The Steps of Faith, Odette's enthusiasm dissipated and she explained to the man, recalling the night prior, that the guards cannot know who she really is. He just pat her shoulder, telling her t leave it to him. Sighing, she had little choice and agreed and they stepped forth. Two guards stopped them, one checking the chocobo while the other asked for their identities as well as their reason for leaving. [[Valentin Vulaire]] was quick to explain, stating that they were a married couple, presenting Odette as Odessa, and then he even recognized the guard, calling him Henry. Odette remained absolutely silent and shocked, not expecting that excuse, but it was a very good one she had to admit. Her 'husband' and Henry talked away, the guard asking him if he just got married to which he nodded, hugging Odette from behind to show the little affections that couples would share. She wanted nothing more than to slap him but she played along, remaining silent. The guard was quick to let them go and once they were at a safe distance, she did question [[Valentin Vulaire]]'s relationship with the guard. He explained that they used to study together but that he deemed the guy an imbecile. During the ride across Coerthas, he would tease her here and there and she somehow managed to survive that as eventually his focus turned elsewhere, to some sort of bronze statue he was carrying with him. As they reached the Shroud, out of nowhere he seemed to get some idea about the statue and in the fervor of the moment, he kissed her cheek, hopping off the chocobo to run to a nearby pond. She was absolutely perplexed and she parked the bird, quickly following him in worry. As she observed, he first dipped the statue into the water as it almost froze around him. He noticed it did no good so he took out a pan from his bag and then placed the statue in it before setting it on fire. Odette just gawked absolutely speechless and confused by the entire scene but she did not interfere. The statue changed appearance into that of Thal, the ruler of the underworld. The Elezen then explained that he was investigation a cult which was interested in summoning primals and that this statue was a thing of theirs. As he would try to pick up the statue, he burned himself a bit so Odette scooted the figurine into the cold watered with her boot, getting it out only once it had cooled down sufficiently. [[Valentin Vulaire]] would pat her head, perhaps thankful, while at the same time scratching at his bear, clearly annoyed by it. She chuckled and handed him a small pair of scissors and a pocket mirror of hers, and more jokes and teasing ensued as he tended to himself, later gluing himself to her and kissing her neck. When asked what he was doing, he simply stated that he was annoying her. He returned the scissors and mirror to her, mounting the chocobo as she would sit behind him, making certain to not fall off wrapping her arms around him. She was quick to doze off, lulled by his humming and the swaying of the bird as it ran across the forest. She came to once they reached Thanalan and she noticed a cut upon his cheek. Using her magicks, she healed the cut, content to be of some sort of help at least once. The teasing resumed regardless and she had to do her best to survive it until they would reach Ul'dah.

Odette learned that [[Arthain Garon]] was meant to duel at the Lynx one evening and she made it a must to go see him fight, even if brawls were not her thing or anything involving violence. Inside the Lynx, she ran into [[Malrinn Nures]] and the two ladies immediately caught up with each other and sat together while the fights went on. The first fight went well although Odette found herself looking away all the time, unable to take the severity and brutality of it which made her friend laugh quite a bit, suggesting that maybe a glass of wine would help. She immediately rejected it, and the Au Ra laughed, saying that it was fine since she too was trying to drink much less lately. As the first round came to a close, the girls went to the bar to get themselves something to drink. Just as her friend had suggested, Odette agreed to have a glass of wine to just loosen up and survive the barbaric fighting. [[Malrinn Nures]] also broke her promise of not drinking to join Odette on the endeavor and they returned to the arena to observe. [[Arthain Garon]]'s turn was up and Odette would lose herself as she drank her glass, cheering enthusiastically and with fervor for her friend. That was when behind her [[Valentin Vulaire]] appeared, stating that she was drunk bluntly. She fought back, not taking such an insult. [[Malrinn Nures]] joined on the talk, recognizing the man from nights prior as he seemed to be wooing some huntress, a statement he did not deny. It somehow soured Odette's mood and she remained distant for the rest of the evening. She tried to focus on the fight but unfortunately [[Arthain Garon]] lost. Regardless, she congratulated him on a job well done and as the final round started, she slipped outside to have a brief respite from the crowded place. Finally outside to enjoy some fresh air, the solitude was short-lived as [[Valentin Vulaire]] seemed to follow her, although it appeared to be mere coincidence. As they were alone again, she proposed they go for a walk as the night was still young and the weather was lovely. As they walked about the Goblet, she brought him to one of her favourite spots to stargaze although he expressed little interest in the area, but he did state that the stars were almost as beautiful as her. It surprised her each time he would be nice but she did love it. She'd ask him why he would be rude all the time and then have moments of actually being pleasant, but he just toyed with her and never replied to it. She would walk around, pacing, losing her footing as the slight tipsiness tugged at her, mumbling and grumbling under her nose. He bluntly stated that she was drunk and that she needed to sit but she ignored him. He proceeded to just pick her up and he moved to a set of benches, sitting her between his legs. He was a big mystery to her and it was absolutely annoying and yet oddly enticing. As he held her in his arms, he asked her if this was like one of those romance stories where the princess fell for a commoner. She countered that, stating that she was no princess and that neither was he some commoner. He still pressed his observation, asking if she did see this as an infatuation. She did not admit it, but deep down she knew that she did have a crush on the man despite his horrible nature; like a magnet it pulled at her. Remaining a gentleman, he asked her for a kiss and the two embraced. It was her first one. It was bitter-sweet as she couldn't believe to have fallen for such a bad character but it was beyond her. The kiss was short as she forgot to breathe and she broke it, gasping for air. He only laughed and soon the two parted ways as he needed to tend to his tasks. That was when Odette's linkpearl rang and she picked up, recognizing [[Malrinn Nures]]'s voice and the two girls talked, agreeing to meet up at Odette's apartment. Once there, Odette hosted her guest with some tea and biscuits and the Au Ra asked her what had happened since she had disappeared during the duel night. Odette did not admit to being intimate but she did say that she and [[Valentin Vulaire]] had a moment and that she did feel attracted to him. This worried her friend and she warned her that she did not see the man as a trustworthy person, foreseeing that following that path would only lead to heartbreak. Odette agreed, fully aware of this fact and she did want to try to somehow tone down the advances for her own good.
</spoiler>

'''Matters of the Heart''' (24)

<spoiler>
Wanting to relax a bit, Odette went to the Quicksand where she met [[Ferroux Quilmont]], a fellow Ishgardian Highborn. While skeptical at first, his genuine and adorable nature won her over easily and they sat together at a table, soon joined by a Lalafell named [[Pishrero Junerero]]. They learned that he was a businessman and owner of [https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900668170/ June's Crafts & Arms]. Odette introduced herself to both but left out her family name. The Elezen man also introduced himself, adding that he worked for the Garlond Ironworks back in Ishgard, assisting with the rebuilding of the city. The businessman immediately saw an opportunity there and offered to work together with the man, offering to write a letter to his superiors as a business venture. They all went to his company's headquarters in the Goblet where [[Pishrero Junerero]] filled out the paperwork and then handed it to the young lad. After business came pleasure and he gave the two Elezen a tour of the establishment. Their interest biggest at the top floor as it seemed to be an extravagant dinning area. Odette was truly amazed at the looks of it and the Lalafell was pleased at the feedback, explaining that the credit went to his employee [[Rorosa Rosa]]. Both Elezen took their leave however as they had other items to tend to, but both willing and intent on returning to make use of the place. As Odette returned to her company in the Goblet, she ran into some shenanigans before the household. She chose to ignore it, hearing some Miqo'te calling her a hot blonde but [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] immediately snapped back at the person, threatening to skewer them with his sword if they were to call his kinsman as such. Not wanting to get involved in the talk, she retreated silently to her apartment for the evening.
[[File:pishieandferroux.png|500px|left|]]
With All Saints' Wake around the corner, Odette found advertisements about a costume party at the Coeurl Consortium located in the Mists. While far, she knew that [[Malrinn Nures]] and [[Reyza Blackwater]] were planning to go, and wanting to meet with her friends, she decided to go too. She assembled a simply costume of an angel, which she believed suited her best. Arriving at the location, she ran into [[Valentin Vulaire]] who was dressed as the total opposite, a devil. The two of them laughed at the polar opposites and entered the establishment together. The place was packed but Odette did get to meet a few people, among them [[Miraenne Nineux]], a fellow Ishgardian. She did meet her friends and the entire evening was spent with them. As the costume contest was announced, Odette started to debate whether to participate or not and taking into account [[Valentin Vulaire]] 's costume, she was willing to even enter as a duet. She asked him and he seemed to have no issues in joining her. Onstage she made the speech for them while he stood beside her looking intimidating but the prize went to another man. The Elezen man did not seem too content with it but Odette managed to soften it up and they all went back to mingling. While she enjoyed a chat with her friends, he seemed intent on drawing [[Malrinn Nures]] who was dressed as an appealing succubus. It did not sit with Odette too well especially when she remembered a few nights prior when they had kissed. While it wasn't jealousy, it was just a feeling of uncertainty towards the man. Once he left the place, Odette talked to [[Malrinn Nures]] and she offered her some good advice as well as comfort. The Au Ra would tease and flirt with Odette for the entire evening, playing up on her succubus costume. At first Odette had no idea how to react to it but eventually as she relaxed she played along, discovering tht the girl seemed to enjoy when she spoke Old Elezen so she allowed her to indulge in it. The rest of the evening was spent in good company before she returned to the Goblet for a good night's sleep, left to ponder about the future of her relations.

The next day while browsing books back at Raven's Heart, she ran into [[Hayase Daiuzu]] who as always was her timid and reserved self, although the girl expressed interest in Ishgard. She asked Odette if she could tell her about it and she most gladly obliged. The two sat down and Odette immediately got bombarded by the questions, struggling to answer any of them due to the speed at which they were thrown at her. The girl clearly had not a single idea of the place or even the Dragonsong War but Odette did not mind, explaining calmly whatever the girl desired. The Au Ra explained that she had something she wanted fixed and asked her if anyone in Ishgard could and that was when she recalled the Skysteel Factory. The girl showed her a weapon, looking alike to a gun but also a blade. She had never seen anything of the like but inspecting the mechanism, it did look alike to something that the Skysteel Factory could assist with. However, Odette warned the girl that Ishgard would most probably not even let her in considering her looks and how similar she was to a dragon. The reason seemed to completely fly over her head and Odette didn't delve into the topic further, but then [[Hayase Daiuzu]] seemed to want to have Odette take care of the matter. Odette immediately protested, telling her that she could not return to Ishgard but didn't explain why. That was when the Au Ra spotted [[Vildola Fyth]] by the stairs and immediately branded her food, wanting to eat some rabbit. Odette panicked and immediately picked the Au Ra up, using her height as an advantage, stopping her from eating her friend. The girl protested and kicked until [[Haru Rumei]] appeared and demanded an explanation. The Au Ra gave in and just left the group while Odette was left alone to explain what had happened with [[Vildola Fyth]] remaining on edge and clearly panicked. [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] came down the stairs and stopped as he spotted the Viera, demanding that she handed in her staff but it only put the woman more on edge, refusing to give in while seeming to look like a trapped animal. [[Haru Rumei]] joined the talk but Odette decided to remain put, not wanting to add more pressure but when she heard her friend sob, she immediately ran to her side, asking her fellow Highborn man for allowance to handle the matter on her own. He allowed it and retreated together with the Au Ra, settling on the couches downstairs. Odette did her best to calm down her friend but the Viera had none of it, immediately running outside, leaving Odette speechless and guessing. Confused, she joined the other two downstairs, sitting down silently until [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] approached her and would start to touch her face, clearly interested in her. While in the past she brushed it off, this time she did understand perfectly the intentions behind his words and she wanted to just get swallowed by the couch. He was intimidating and at the same time she did fear him at a certain level as he was pro-Ishgardian. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] saw this and she just wanted to die of embarrassment, however she jumped up when he mentioned passing a Viera on the streets. Knowing in what direction she went, Odette was intent on finding her friend. The Highborn immediately granted her the leave, however he did say he was wounded that he did not get to spend as much time with her as he wanted, requesting them to spend some time together soon. She did not deny him this and agreed before venturing out. She was unable to find [[Vildola Fyth]] despite going the path that the Miqo'te had told her where he had seen the Viera. Still searching but to no avail, she was soon united again with the Miqo'te, as it seemed he had followed her to help her in the search. While skeptical and not generally enjoying his company, she did take his offer and they would search together. Thanks to his acute sense of smell, they soon found the Viera hiding away in a tunnel in the Goblet. [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] decided to go around and block off the other exit to prevent the woman from escaping. Taking a few breaths, Odette stepped into the tunnel, deciding not to sneak up on her friend as it would only startle her further and make her run away, heels clicking with each step she took while she called her name carried by the echo. [[Vildola Fyth]] definitely heard her and was about to take off running but hearing Odette's calm tone she did remain and broke down crying on the ground. Odette sat beside her, arms around the poor thing as she sobbed. The Viera proceeded to explain that she was struggling in adapting to the new place, unable to interact with people, especially when they were like [[Hayase Daiuzu]]. Odette tried her best to calm her down, speaking kind and gentle words while she'd stroke her hairs but the Viera then said that she felt like a burden to her. She only had her and felt like she had no one to turn to, while at the same time only causing her issues. Odette quickly countered her words, stating that they were best friends and that she gladly would dedicate all her time to her. After some more talking, [[Vildola Fyth]] did calm down although she admitted she had nowhere to go, and then Odette told her that she could move in with her into her small apartment. The offer shocked the Viera but she took it and the two became roommates. After the long day, the woman decided to retire to the apartment for some much needed rest and Odette told her she'd join her soon after a small trip to the market to get some food for them to pass the evening together by the fireplace. As the Viera left, [[Myr'sa Zemtarii]] came out of hiding, handing her the woman's staff as she seemed to had forgotten it. Odette took it, thanking him for his help. He immediately told her that he was amazed at her good heart and truly impressed by what she had done for her friend. It was a bit offending to know that he thought otherwise but she responded in kind, and the two reconciled with a handshake. He agreed not to speak of what was mentioned in the tunnel as well as her drunken state back when they had first met. She did appreciate it and would exchange a few more words before leaving towards the markets.

While at the markets, Odette made certain to pick out the freshest produce to share with her friend. Content to get a nice hefty bag-full, she started to make her way towards the Goblet but ended up smashing into a lamppost at a turn and she dropped everything while at the same time almost breaking her nose. Annoyed and disoriented, she quickly went about picking up all the fruit when suddenly another hand came into view. Looking up she recognized the man to be [[Varriz Relanah]]. He startled her and she fell back on her rear blushing, aware that he saw the entire incident. He chuckled, helping her out and inspecting any injuries she might have sustained. Noticing that the hit would leave a mark, he proposed to take her back to his shop where he had some healing balm which would help her. Although flustered, she gladly took him up on the offer. At the main square, he took to to his medium sized cart. She was truly amazed as she never got to see one up close and she was like a child set lose in a candy shop. Inside she inspected absolutely every single item, truly amazed and wanting to know everything about the origins of each of the trinkets. He sat her down before they got overly distracted and applied the balm to her forehead. Odette wanted to repay him but he refuse the money, instead wanting to have that walk with her which he had promised her a week prior. While a bit confused at the simple exchange, she did not mind and agreed; the two leaving the cart after she left her groceries there, not wanting to carry them around. He took her to the hill where the Coffin & Coffer we nestled into, wanting to present to her the gorgeous view from above. Despite the breathtaking view, it was clear that she had a much bigger interest in the man's wares back in his cart and he gladly guided her back to it where she proceeded to explore openly everything. As she would pick out something, he would tell her the story behind each item. Despite all the riches and luxurious, she was mostly attracted to the simple things like seashells which she had never seen in her life; it seemed to appeal to him. She inspected a kimono, as well as some shiny rocks, including dried leaves but what caught her eye the most was a musketoon which lay against a shelving unit. She inspected it, quickly remembering her lessons to learn to wield such a weapon. [[Varriz Relanah]] was quite surprised to see her adept at it and he did offer her the chance to polish up her skills, but only if she were willing to pay for the bullets. While tempting, she had another offer, wanting to buy the gun fully from the man. He was gladly willing to sell her the weapon and made her an offer, but she came up one gil short, and pleaded for a deal while laughing at how cliche it seemed. However, much to her surprise, he offered her a game and the winner could ask the other person anything. They had to describe two constellations each and the one to guess both, won. Odette did not inform him that she studied astromancy and so she won easily and as a prize, she requested her money back for the firearm. He was absolutely distraught at how shrewd she was.
[[File:Odettecorvinoixgun.png|500px|right|]]
Odette brought back the weapon to the company where she ran into [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], who immediately expressed interest in the wooden box she held. She opened it and presented him the weapon and he questioned her how come such a gentle and docile person had such a weapon. She explained to him that she was taught to use one when younger and that she managed to get it at a very good deal, free. He seemed genuinely interested in seeing her use it and he requested that she tests it. Seeing no harm in it, she loaded the cartridges in and prepped herself, until he commented that it felt nostalgic to him. Upon asking further, he explained that his mother too was a healer and thta her weapon of choice for self-defense was a gun. The conversation took a turn when he asked her if she would be willing to exchange their expertise, him teaching her melee combat, specializing as a dragoon, while she would teach him how to use a firearm. Odette saw no harm at all in teaching him but he warned her that on his side with the dragoon ways, she would be taught to kill an enemy without reservations for the best of the others. That notion did not sit well with her at all and she kindly rejected his offer; but she up-kept her side of wanting to teach him to use a gun. He commented that she was truly a light in the dark, her kind and soft nature always shinning through. She laughed and promised that despite not being an offence person, she'd make certain not to be a burden on the company, wanting to assist in any way possible. That was when he reminded her that she owed him a check up. Flustered that she had forgotten, she immediately offered to give him the check up immediately and he agreed. At the infirmary, she had him unclothe and that was when she was made aware of the sorry state of his body as it was littered in scars and burns. She checked him over carefully, using her magicks to make certain he was in good health but it was evident that his body was starting to feel the pressure and was worn out. She recommended him to take it easy, which he laughed at, stating she wasn't the only one to say so. Odette knew very well she wasn't the first to say so, and neither would she be the last. He got dressed and thanked her for her time, adding that he would try to take it easy.

The same evening, there was a meet-up at the Desert Carbuncle, a locale in the Goblet. Having nothing better to do she attended alone, but there she ran into [[Pishrero Junerero]] and then [[Ferroux Quilmont]] who joined much later. The trio stood by the bar as they engaged in conversation, the Lalafell and the man immediately touching base with business matters, but it seemed those got delayed due to usual business constraints. The Ishgardian then explained that is was his birthday a few days ago and that everything was going well on his side and he felt generous that evening, inviting his two friends to share a bottle of wine with him as he paid. The businessman refused the offer but Odette, not wanting to seem rude despite her weak head when it came to alcohol, accepted the offer with a smile. This pleased her friend and he immediately ordered an entire bottle for them to share while she prayed to the Fury for her safety and soberness. The two Elezen started drinking away and it was clear that Odette still had issues pacing herself as the men looked on at her with concern but she managed to keep it undercover quite well. [[Pishrero Junerero]] at some point left them to make some business connections and that was when the two Ishgardians spoke more openly. Odette told him of her newly acquired musketoon, explaining that it actually reminded of him since he worked for the Skysteel Manufactory. The notion made him really happy, but he then got curious and asked her if she actually knew how to use a firearm. She explained to him that she was taught to use it as a young girl as it was the only weapon with class that did not require brute force in her family's eyes. As the conversation kept going, she challenged her to a shooting, wanting to see who was the better shot between them as he deemed himself a specialist. She gladly took him up on the challenge, alcohol slowly starting to affect them both and making them much less shy and more charismatic. He said that he had a shooting range in the basement of his mansion back in Ishgard but that made her mood sadden as she reminded him that she could not really visit Ishgard whenever she wanted. That is when he came up with an idea to smuggle her in, literally. On a weekly basis, the Skysteel Manufactory got a shipment of parts from Eorzea and since he was such a workaholic working late hours, he was the only one who took care of opening the crates and ordering the ordered parts. If she were to sneak into one of the crates, or the ship itself, he would then be the one to get her out once she would arrive in Ishgard. The plan seemed perfect and she couldn't even express how happy she was to get such an offer and help from him, jumping up happily. He seemed just as happy and it also would provide him much needed company in his lonesome life. In exchange for his help and hospitality, she did offer him to stay over at her apartment anytime he needed or whenever he visited, however, she underlined that she could only offer him the couch as she was sharing the place with [[Vildola Fyth]]. He went red at the offer but he gladly took it up. A few more people appeared who talked to them but as the evening came to a close, Odette then asked him if he actually had time now for the challenge. He seemed just as hyped and said he had plenty of time so they decided to go test each others' skills immediately, leaving the Desert Carbuncle. He had hidden his gun in some bushes beside the house which made her laugh at how 'professional' it looked. They returned to her apartment in the Goblet where she quickly changed into something more comfortable and she fetched her revolver.
[[File:Odetteferrouxcouple.png|500px|left|]]
The two made their way to the high steps overlooking the Brimming Heart, from where they had the person view over the area as well as potential targets. They agree that the opponent would select the target for the shooter, and first one to get three points would win. She selected his target first and for the first two rounds, they got a perfect tie. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then proposed that they could actually make some deal for the winner to make the game more interesting and she saw no harm in it, although she had no idea what potentially to even ask for. he quickly cancelled the entire prize thing, finding it silly. Odette immediately figured him out and said that if all he wanted was her company, he did not need to win a bet to get it, but simply ask her and he would receive. He was amazed at her divination skills, thinking that it had to be some astrologian magic to read minds. She just laughed it off and they continued their game, for the last round selecting much smaller targets. He was up first and much to his dismay, but her glee, he missed the target. Luck was on Odette's side as she hit a perfect bull's eye on the target he selected for her, making her the winner. In the heat of the moment, she threw herself on him with a hug. While he stiffened at first from his nerves, he swiftly returned it, thanking her for everything. Despite his loss, he felt like a winner as he had met her and gained her friendship, including getting a hug from her. His words were extremely flattering and she smiled, explaining that if he ever wanted a hug he only needed to ask, as it wasn't anything taboo or forbidden. Bashfully, he requested for one more. She immediately embraced him and he indulged in the hug, telling her how grateful and happy he was to meet her back at the Quicksand, and she reciprocated the feeling, truly glad to have met him. She added that deep down, she wished that she had met him sooner, even while she resided in Ishgard, as she was certain his friendship would have changed her path. He understood her perfectly, and he too had a similar impression, explaining that he spent six years alone ever since his parents passed and that his loneliness would not have existed if they had crossed paths. His eyes started to water and she immediately went about cleaning his face should the tears start to fall and she comforted him. She told him that she'd visit him as much as possible, not wanting him to be alone, and now that he found a way to get her into Ishgard undetected, she could do it much more often. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] then said that he did wish for more than to just spend time with her, which threw her for a loop. She did not know what else she could offer him apart from visiting him more often but he quickly clarified, confessing to her and asking her to be romantically involved with him. While it hit her hard, she definitely did not dislike the man. He was kind and gentle with her, and he clearly had his own hardships too, but he managed; just like her. It was evident that he cared and that he was desperate for affections; much like her too. She agreed. The two of them sobbed tears of joy and relief, noting that both were crybabies. She promised to try and tone down the crying, aware that if it kept on going they would never finish it. It was then that the two shared their first kiss, warm, tender and innocent. Both were knew to this but the feelings they shared were undeniable as they shared the embrace. He asked her after what they were to do after. Confused, she replied that they would just keep going and do things like normal couples did; going out, spending time together... He laughed, as he meant what they were to do that evening overall, not the dating part. She blushed embarrassed at the faux-pas and they returned to her apartment as he was anyway meant to spend the night there. Once back at the apartment, he expressed interest in meeting her flatmate [[Vildola Fyth]] but she was nowhere to be found. Odette explained to him her friend's situation, stating that the woman was also a foreigner but that she struggled with socializing and anxiety would hit her each time. She was lonely and had nowhere to go, thus, she took her in. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] immediately related with the unknown Viera, fully understanding how bad loneliness was. She explained to him that she would gladly introduce them to one another but that for the time being it was best not to force it, fearing her friend would just freak out anew as she remembered the incident from a few days prior. The couple sat together by the fire, talking into the late night until Odette started to slowly fall asleep over his shoulder. He noticed her passing out and debated whether to take her to her bedroom but he couldn't bring himself to it and the two of them drifted to sleep together on the couch.

The following evening there was a costume party at Raven's Heart to celebrate All Saints Wake, and so Odette invited [[Sini'to Shadar]] as well as [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. The priest came dressed as a grey pig which was definitely disturbing and even the Elezen man was left speechless when he met him. Odette dressed up as a very casual witch while [[Ferroux Quilmont]], being in a rush and having not much of a selection, dressed up on the fancy side with a simple moogle hat to top it off. The three headed over to the company house and were immediately greeted by many people. Some even seemed to know already of the relationship which made [[Ferroux Quilmont]] embarrassed and he spent the entire evening at Odette's side. At some point there has been a contest to locate four stuffed toys; the lights went off and panic ensued. The Elezen was so excited and wanting to win that he was dragging Odette all over the place and they did very well together however the win went to another. They did receive consolation prizes consisting of a few cookies and a bottle of wine each. The evening came to an early end and everyone went their way while the couple decided to retreat back to Odette's apartment to try out the wine they had won. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] tended to the wine and as he got it open, they would talk on many different topics, among them him asking her of her hobbies as well as favourite things. Odette learned that he was to return to Ishgard the following day and it saddened her, however she understood very well that it was for work and that it could not be avoided. She did promise that she would visit him no matter what, despite the risks. He appreciated it but did explain that he was planning on changing positions, wanting something more mobile or closer to her but she insisted that he did as his heart desired, not wanting him to change anything only for her sake. With the wine and the great company, the two got more intimate. Both being new at it, it was either awkward but the wine helped there with that. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] got worked up as did Odette as the two got heated and would explore a bit more of each others' bodies, however, Odette remained sane and stopped it before it got too far, stating that it was a bit too soon and that she did not want to do it without the necessary precautions. He agreed and after a moment they did calm down from the moment of fervor, deciding to retreat to bed. As they undressed, Odette noticed the amount of scars covering his left torso and it worried her. He told her the tale of an explosion of a gas tank which almost killed him but instead left him the large scar. His line of work definitely did not seem to be the safest but since it was something he adored to do, she did not voice any further concerns and the two went to sleep.

Morning came and [[Ferroux Quilmont]] departed for Ishgard. Odette, left alone, definitely felt the loneliness hit her immediately and her motivation and mood just dropped. She did not want to go out or anything, struggling to manage without him after such amazing two days. That was when [[Varriz Relanah]] paid her a visit and to get her out, he took her to another All Saint’s Wake costume party. Despite not feeling up for it, she did go and dressed up the same way as at the previous party while he got dressed as a creepy doctor. The event was at the Goblet which was convenient and once inside they ran into [[Sini’to Shadar]], dressed as a grey pig. Everyone was dumbfounded by this development and he definitely did everything to channel a pig in his costume, as far as making sound effects and pig noises. [[Varriz Relanah]] definitely questioned her choice of friends but both men did get along as they found common ground with the mercantile business. [[Simeon Sibaruse]] also happened to be at the event and he too began to question the people Odette attracted, but he did find it amusing. Everyone relaxed and mingled in peace, Odette definitely feeling much better and perked up in the presence of her friends when suddenly [[Valentin Vulaire]] made an appearance and immediately set his sights on her. [[Varriz Relanah]] immediately stepped in, taking up a protective posture, which I turn, made [[Valentin Vulaire]] believe that he was her partner and it triggered new talks. He would touch her and try to sweet-talk her, and then he asked her to join him on a trip. She was left shocked and started to ask questions, wanting the reasons for the trip and when it was meant to be; to which he replied immediately. Odette refused and told him they would talk tomorrow as she could not leave right now out of nowhere. He did not seem too pleased but he agreed and then took his leave. The encounter exhausted her but she managed to enjoy the event regardless, including witnessing [[Sini’to Shadar]] winning the costume contest.

Odette was woken up by a knock on her door at an obnoxious hour, rolling out still in her nightgown to rush to the door. As she opened it, it was [[Valentin Vulaire]]. While she knew they were to meet, she did not expect it to be even before sunrise. He invited himself in while she tried to wake up, quickly brushing through her hairs with her fingers to make herself look a bit more presentable. Wasting no time, she asked him what was going on yesterday, wanting to know why he needed to go to Ishgard immediately, and why with her. He then explained that it need not be Ishgard and that he simply desired to go away somewhere with her. The news shocked her and she found herself struggling to accept such an offer due to her current status. Seeing it as an amicable outing, she began to pack her things until he then told her it would be a date. She immediately stopped her packing and told him up front that she could not go with him as she was seeing someone. It was evident that he did not appreciate the news and even tried to coerce her into coming along with him regardless, trying to kiss her in the process but she refused him and he left her alone, leaving the apartment. Distraught and confused, feeling lonely, Odette remembered that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] had left her his linkpearl. Despite the early hours of the morning, she called him and caught him in the middle of work. He immediately took a break to be able to speak with her, clearly extremely happy to hear her. She refused to tell him of what had happened but she admitted to missing him and asked if she could actually try out his plan of smuggling her in. Surprised but definitely not against it he informed her that a shipment to Ishgard was due in a few hours and she agreed to be on it. They exchanged a few tenders words and Odette prepped for the journey. In Ul’dah at the airship landing she immediately was able to locate the airship bound for Ishgard and she hid herself in one of the crates without anyone noticing her. To keep herself occupied she had taken with herself a small book and nothing else, the crate much too tight to take anything else with herself. The journey wasn’t bad at all as most of it was relatively quiet but as the ship would approach Ishgard, the freezing cold was undeniable and she had forgotten to take her jacket with herself, especially when living in Thanalan. It got a bit warmer once it seemed the crates were finally deposited somewhere and she was able to discern voices and footsteps. She was sweating bullets, worried that someone other than [[Ferroux Quilmont]] would find her, which would definitely end her. To her relief, she then heard his voice called for her and she knocked on her crate to let him know where she was. He immediately got her out and the two shared an embrace, overjoyed to reunite even if they hadn’t seen each other for only two days. Seeing her shaking from the cold he immediately gave her his coat, taking her to the employee room where they shared a quick meal he had prepared for them. While eating, Odette gently told him of what had happened and it definitely did not sit well with him but he did not want to alarm her and so he kept his cool. Among the talks, he asked her why she couldn’t enter and leave Ishgard at ease. While she did not want to speak of it, especially to him, she understood that it was something which he deserved to know. Odette proceeded to explain her betrothal to another from another House and how she escaped. He did not expect such a tale, and while he understood her, he felt sorry for her family who missed her. She too understood his point of view but she wasn’t about to throw away her hard work for them nor her freedom. However, the matter did get him thinking, debating as far as even having her marry him so the family would be unable to wed her to another. The idea definitely was not a bad one but both of them agreed that it was much too early to even debate such things, leaving them flustered and embarrassed. Once they finished the meal, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] quickly cleaned up and they went for a walk in the city. He decided to take her towards the Brume, which she never had the occasion to explore thoroughly. During the walk they talked of many things, and their affections would merely strengthen each time, each one supporting the other. At the Forgotten Knight they shared some tea by the fire as more talks started, this time about family and the state of House Quilmont. Odette always reinforced that she did not care of his status and that she accepted him fully no matter what. While he knew the words were heartfelt, it still pained him that he could not give her what he wanted. Once finished, they then went back to his place.
[[File:Ferrouxandodetteinoffice.png|400px|left|]]
The house was definitely rundown and struck with poverty, but it was clear to see that it used to be a grand mansion. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was definitely ashamed of the fact but Odette was well aware of the reasons and did not blame him in the least. Quite the contrary, she found the place cozy. He gave her a tour of the entire place, her attention definitely on his small office where she asked him if he ever slept there. He nodded. Odette knew very well that he neglected himself and she did not approve, hoping to perhaps change that during her stay with him. She inspected his bookcase while he wrapped his arms around her waist, asking if she was into engineering books. Alas, chuckling, she replied that she was much more into poetry and romance novels but she proposed that she’d gladly read to him sometime in the evenings. He seemed to enjoy the idea and agreed. Next room was his workshop. It was a different world for her as she inspected all the machines and his contraptions, immediately complimenting him on his talents. Modestly he appreciated her words but he did not see it as talent. Odette quickly clarified and explained to him why she saw it as amazing, leaving him blushing and flattered. He too then proceeded to compliment her, learning that she was a talented piano player. After a long exchange, he proposed that they move back upstairs and have some wine, or sit on the couch. Unable to choose, she decided they have some wine by the fireplace. Amused he agreed and he went to fetch one of the best bottles of wine his father had kept, wanting to share it with her. Odette still struggled with drinking alcohol but she did not want it to be a problem when spending time with him, so she pushed her boundaries a bit. As they drank the wine and enjoyed each other’s company, she asked him about his parents, genuinely wanting to know more. While he seemed at peace with it all, it was clear that he still pained him at times. Odette gladly listened as he described his parents to her, adding that for certain they would have liked it. It definitely made her smile, the talk and the wine calming her down. As the evening carried on, they drank more and more and it relaxed both introverts to the point them beginning to make out fervently, shyness dimmed and other senses heightened. As they got more and more into it, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] proposed they move to the bedroom. She agreed and he took her there, where both of them froze up completely. The reality loomed over both and neither were capable to initiate anything. Odette took a deep breath, genuinely wanting this with him and refusing for her shyness to be the barrier from them consummating their relationship. Reaching deep for some much needed courage, she took the lead, having him sit at the edge of the beg and cradling herself over his lap. He was left speechless but seeing her take the lead, he too tried to push past his timid side. The two of them slowly relax as they would slowly shed pieces of clothing, revealing themselves more and more to each other, no barriers or secrets left. A most tender and intimate night followed as the two finally consummated their relationship, Odette having her very first experience with him, and she did not regret it one bit.

In the afterglow, [[Ferroux Quilmont]], out of nowhere, asked her to move in with him. It left Odette speechless and he immediately thought that perhaps his words were too soon but she countered him in seconds, expressing her joy and fully willing to move in with him in a heartbeat. He was overjoyed to hear this and cried together with her in glee. However, this brought up an entire new conversation as Odette started to debate how she could return to Ishgard but still remain unfound by her family, but still be able to function freely around the city. While discussing the options, she came up with the brilliant idea to become a private tutor to other Houses, aiming to teach the children etiquette as well as everything necessary to be worthy Highborn to a noble house. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was surprised but he definitely could see her succeeding, as she took went through such strict upbringing and she knew it through and through. But, it would expose her even more by becoming known around the Houses. It was still a smart move to be in plain sight and yet hidden. Odette felt excited about being able to find some form of employment in Ishgard to be able to assist with the finances, but she needed a new identity. She then asked him if she could use House Quilmont as her cover up. This shocked him, but he was flattered that she wanted to carry his family name. Then the debate on whom she would be within the household began, and jokingly he stated that she could be simply Odette Quilmont. The two of them got flustered immediately and they just panicked, understanding that he meant her posing as his wife. Odette was the first to calm down and decided that she would simply be a tutor from House Quilmont, offering her services to other Houses. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] agreed. He then asked her about her life back in Thanalan, about her apartment and also her allegiance towards her company. She explained that she would leave her keys to [[Malrinn Nures]], allowing her to tend to her place, or simply give it away fully to [[Vildola Fyth]] as she did need a place to stay at. As for her loyalty towards Raven’s Heart, she had partaken in a meeting where [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was leaving them for a prolonged period of time, leaving the company in the hands of his second in command. No one appeared to trust the woman and Odette was there solely due to her agreement with [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]], thus, she had nothing holding her there anymore. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] didn’t feel too comfortable with her abandoning her life in Thanalan but he was overjoyed to have her move in with him. It appeared that everything was settled and Odette had a lot to plan in the coming days to set it all in motion.
</spoiler>

'''Feeling of Belonging''' (24-Current)

<spoiler>
With [[Ferroux Quilmont]] occupied with work, Odette ventured out to the Jeweled Crozier to browse the wares. Once there, she purchased three books, each contained some fairy-tales as well as light romances. Still looking about, the moment she turned around she immediately spotted and recognized [[Malrinn Nures]] tending to a stall selling flowers. Odette immediately approached her and the two girls shared an embrace, both thrilled to have run into each other, and surprised to see the other in Ishgard. The Au Ra quickly explained that she did live in Ishgard most of her time and that she was a florist while Odette gently said that she was staying in Ishgard, most likely permanently. This immediately piqued the girl's interest and she closed her stall for the moment to go have something warm to eat with the Elezen. The two went over to another area of the market where Odette purchased them some stew and hot chocolate to warm up, settling on a set of stairs to each in peace despite the cold. While Odette nursed her bowl in her lap, warming up her hands, the Au Ra immediately asked her why she was deciding to stay in Ishgard. Blushing, Odette then explained that she had met someone and that they had moved in. This came as a huge shock to her friend but the girl was very understanding, immediately expressing her joy and aware that if it was something that Odette had decided to follow, then it had to be right. This came as a huge relief to her, glad to have the support of her dearest friend. [[Malrinn Nures]] then also mentioned that she had met someone and was going out. This news overjoyed Odette and the two girls exchanged some girly talks, enjoying their time together and the banter, the Au Ra going as far as asking about intimate things which immediately made Odette blush and unable to respond. Once done, the two returned to the Au Ra’s flower stand where they talked some more, Odette mentioning that [[Ferroux Quilmont]]’s mansion was a bit rundown and that she would like to bring more life to it. That was when [[Malrinn Nures]] decided to give her some flowers to liven up the place and she proposed a beautiful set of potted Azalea’s. Odette was absolutely thrilled at the gift, asking what she wanted in exchange to which her friend replied, half-jokingly, that she’d want to be the florist for her wedding ceremony once it would happen. Flustered, Odette agreed and the two parted ways, both extremely happy to have met one another.

Returning to House Quilmont, Odette would set down her books and the pot of Azalea’s by the table near the door while she removed her outerwear. Taking a moment to listen in, she could hear some noise coming from downstairs, suspecting it had to be her partner who had come back from work earlier. She descended the stairs, calling for him and the response was almost immediate, accompanied with the noise of items falling to the floor before the doors to his workshop opened, a cloud of smoke escaping the room. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was a mess as per usual but clearly thrilled to see her as he embraced the woman, while she looked behind him to inspect the mess, noticing his desk in disarray and a pile of papers laying all over the floor. The two of them quickly cleaned up the place and Odette mentioned to him that she met her best friend at the market, mentioning that she was an Au Ra. This worried him as their kind wasn’t too welcome but Odette reassured him that [[Malrinn Nures]] was a strong character and that she could manage on her own. She then added that the girl had gifted them a pot of flowers to decorate the mansion, which overjoyed him. Odette motioned him to follow her back upstairs once they were done with cleaning to show them to him but he swept her off her feet, carrying her back to the ground floor. Her hands immediately snaked behind his neck for support as he held her in his arms, sharing a tender embrace as he brought her upstairs. Odette then showed him the beautiful fuchsia flowers as well as the three books she had purchased. He thanked her immediately for bringing the flowers as well as bringing more life to the mansion, which fueled the next conversation. She mentioned that she had been to the attic to inspect what was up there, as well as searching for actual clothes for herself as she had brought nothing with herself. Luckily she had found some clothes to be able to perfectly camouflage herself when out and about. It definitely got him curious and he followed her to the attic. He immediately noticed that she had cleaned up a large portion of the place, mostly a part contained closets and chests. Inside of them, Odette had found lots of female attire, suspecting it to be his mother’s, which he later on confirmed. She quickly threw on a coat which seemed like a teachers garb, including a pair of lenseless glasses before tying up her fabulous blonds into two plain braids. Despite the simplicity, [[Ferroux Quilmont]] found her rather charming in the clothes which definitely flattered her. She did find more dresses and clothes and he immediately commented that he would not mind having her wear any of them, his mother definitely would have approved. This truly lessened her worries as well as warmed the heart to know. The two of them decided to go outside to get some groceries done, while at the same time testing her getup.

Before heading out, she did note that [[Ferroux Quilmont]] was rather filthy since he had been at work, his face caked with oils and dirt. He laughed agreeing and told her to give him a few minutes to go wash himself. She then settled herself over the couch with one of the books she had purchased, keeping herself busy while he tended to himself. Shortly after she heard some whistling, assuming it was him so she rose her head from her book to look but then spotted him waltzing past completely naked! She immediately called out his name alarmed and he was then made aware that he wasn’t alone, quickly taking the towel from his head to wrap it around his waist before darting towards the bedroom to change. Odette remained there sitting absolutely frozen until he finally came out, fully dressed and ready to head out. It was evident that he too was caught off-guard, haven forgotten that she was there as he acted on pure habit. The awkwardness was evident and to loosen it up, she chuckled and ran out the front door, calling him to follow along. Confused, he followed her outside only to be greeted by a snowball to the chest. He immediately burst into laughter, collecting snow in his hands and throwing it back at her. The two continued their antics, Odette content to see him calm down and loosen up after the little exposure from before. The back and forth continued for a while until he finally won by throwing her onto a pile of snow, threatening to throw snow down her shirt. Despite the silliness, the two kissed and shared another tender moment between their fun; before finally getting up and heading towards the market. At the market, the two struggled to decide what to even get; Odette completely inept at cooking while [[Ferroux Quilmont]] appeared a bit more comfortable with it, but still quite lacking. They decided to make his favourite: meatpies. But both had no idea how to even begin and they debated getting perhaps a cooking book. He opted not to, seeing it as a challenge and a way to have fun. They quickly purchased a few basics they assumed logical like eggs, milk, butter, flour…etc

Walking back home hand in hand, they began to talk about dinner as well as some idle casual talk. Among the topics however, he mentioned wanting to spend a lovely evening with her, to which she replied that she hoped for more than just one evening. This brought him joy and he went as far as saying that he hoped it would be for the rest of her life, and to his surprise, she did not mind, agreeing to the notion. This did make him freeze up in surprise and she would go about kissing his cheek, wanting him to calm down a bit, aware that he was perhaps embarrassed. Unknown if due to confusion or he just blurted out his thoughts without thinking, he then asked for her to become his wife; quickly adding that it did not have to be immediately or the next day, but someday, wanting her to become Odette Quilmont officially. It rendered her absolutely speechless, immediately asking him he meant it to be her cover-up while residing in Ishgard or if it was a genuine question. To her question, he dropped down to one knee, proposing to her officially and asking for her hand in marriage. She had not expected it to ever happen in her life, betrothed to another by her family; and yet her heart sung out to him. Despite escaping one marriage, she felt this one was right and she wanted it. She felt to her knees before him, embracing him as she wept tears of joy. He was taken aback for a moment, processing what had just happened before it finally reached him that she agreed to the union. His arms wrapped around the woman as he promised to cherish her forever as she promised to be always at his side. The two remained wrapped around one another, allowing the moment to sink in before finally getting up and heading back to the mansion. Odette felt like nothing could stop her anymore, especially with [[Ferroux Quilmont]] at her side. He was her everything and he made her the happiest woman in the realm that day. He casually mentioned that he still was amazed that she was with him, unable to understand why. She smiled, replying that she’d show him later on just what she sees. It got him to blush but he wasn’t opposed to it, his thoughts definitely leaning towards intimate ones. Lost in her thoughts, Odette suddenly smacked her head dead onto a lamppost right before the gates to the mansion, immediately kneeling to the ground as her hands pressed to her forehead. [[Ferroux Quilmont]] went mental with worry, immediately picking her up, assuming the worst. She tried to calm him done but he wouldn’t have any of it, kicking the front door of his house open before laying the woman over the couch. She remained absolutely perplexed, more worried about the state of the door than herself as she felt perfectly fine. He went about closing the door before he returned to her. She reassured him again that she was fine and he finally gave in, seeing that she was alright. He got up and would ask her if she wanted to cook immediately or relax a bit before beginning. Her arms then wrapped around him as she pressed herself to his back, timidly asking for some cuddles. He was genuinely happy to hear such a request and agreed, first quickly setting the foods in the kitchen before returning to her to join her on the couch. Once he was there, she beamed and would cradled herself in his life, picking out a small pocket-mirror out of the pockets of her skirt. She flipped it open, having the mirror face him so he could see his reflection and she proceeded to explain to him just what she saw in him, as promised a few minutes prior. A heart of gold, a caring personality, smart, loving, generous; and the list went on. [{Ferroux Quilmont]] was left speechless, become more and more red by the minute. He then returned the favour, much to her surprise, stating all the qualities that he loved about her; beautiful, kind and brave, adding the fact that she saved a man’s life from a lifetime of solitude. He was absolutely overjoyed to have this exchange and he embraced her anew, reiterating his undying love for her.

They exchange a few more tender words until Odette decided to take the initiative, her arms sliding past his shoulders to grab hold of the back of the couch, pressing her body against his own. He immediately caught on and would have his hands over her before having her lay down over the couch with him over her. Both still flustered about the entire thing, it still would not deter their determination, Odette wanting to experience more intimacy with him just as much as he wanted with her. They began innocently, both red, but their bodies and hearts calling for one another. They shared they second intimate evening wrapped around one another in a tight embrace, Odette never wishing to part and intent on being less shy around him. In public she was the one who was much more open, but when alone with him, their roles would reverse, her being shy and him more forthcoming.

One evening after going out to purchase more books for herself, back at the mansion, Odette ran into [[Ferroux Quilmont]] conversing with [[Simeon Sibaruse]]. Her partner immediately greeted her overjoyed to see her, and yet he appeared flustered and embarrassed, struggling to form words. Confused, she asked the two of their topic of discussion and the older Elezen replied that they spoke of touching. It only worked to confuse her further, unable to comprehend what was so bad about that. Her second-half would whisper to her ear, explaining as best as he could but it still failed until the guest clarified that they spoke of intimacy with each of their partners. The result was immediate as her face went as red as her partner's, [[Simeon Sibaruse]] meanwhile quite literally laughing to his heart's content. She settled herself between the two of them on the couch, the man still teasing and poking fun at her partner but she quickly stood up to him, gently requesting for him to stop which he did, deeming that he sufficiently had the youngster suffer. Regardless of the teasing, he expressed that he genuinely was pleased to see the couple together and that he saw them as a perfect fit, wishing them the best. The news overjoyed her and she expressed her gratitude to the man together with [[Ferroux Quilmont]]. They exchanged a few more words when the men then moved on to the topic of the Ishgardian restoration. Not wanting to be in their way and wanting to go indulge in her new books, she excused herself to head downstairs and the two men would continue talking away.

As planned, Odette returned to Eorzea, needing to close up any loose ends before officially returning and staying in Ishgard.
She entered the Raven's Heart establishment, and perhaps she was lucky, as she found not a soul inside. Walking over to the notice board, she sighed heavily, a paper she had written beforehand in her hands as they shook nervously. She did feel a bit guilty but her loyalties were elsewhere. At a prior reunion at the company, [[Corvinoix Heinsrich]] had informed everyone that he was going to leave to tend to the Ishgardian restoration and with him gone, nothing was tying her to the place. She had no quarrels with anyone but her heart was back in Ishgard too. With that in mind, she pinned her letter to the board before heading out the door, leaving the company for good, but in her heart, she hoped it wasn't forever and that she would still meet the few people she had made friends with during her stay.
</spoiler>

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#B1C0FA">'''Gallery'''</div>===

<gallery>
Kalayahandodette.png|K'alayah & Odette
Taluhtotalk.png|Talking with Taluh'to
Vildolatalk.png|Girl-Talk with Vildola
Pianolesson.png|Piano Lesson
Sagoliidesert.png|Sagolii Desert Mission
Corvinoixandodette.png|Corvinoix & Odette
brokenfinger.png|New Infirmary
historylesson.png|History Lesson
Odetteandkaida.png|Kaida & Odette
arthainduel.png|Arthain's Duel
Valandodettekiss.png|Valentin & Odette Bonding
friendlyadvice.png|Friendly Advice from Malrinn
shootingbet.png|Ishgardian Passtime
talkingthenightaway.png|Odette & Ferroux
allsaintswakerhrp.png|All Saints Wake
</gallery>

[[Category:Character]] [[Category:Player Character]] [[Category:Elezen]] [[Category:Ishgardian]] [[Category:Duskwight Elezen]] [[Category:Character Stub]]

Shin Nelhah

2020-03-12T08:37:19Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Relationships */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Shinnan Solah Nelhah
| image = Shinfaceshot.png
| imagewidth = 340
| caption = "Toxicologist by trade, professional smartass by nature"
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Gridanian
| race = [[:Category:Miqo'te|Miqo'te]]
| clan = [[:Category:Miqo'te_Keeper_of_the_Moon|Keeper of the Moon]]
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 28
| stat_2 = Nicknames
| stat_2_value = Shin, Shinful
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Toxicologist/ Alchemist
| stat_4 = Guardian Deity
| stat_4_value = [[Menphina, the Lover]]
| stat_5 = Marital Status
| stat_5_value = Engaged to [[Sini'to Shadar]]
| stat_6 = FC
| stat_6_value = None
}}
<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''About The Player'''</div>
* '''Time Zone:''' CET - Poland
* '''Nationality:''' Canadian-Polish
* '''Server:''' Omega
* '''FC''': None
* '''Lodestone:''' [http://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/13769662/ Shin Nelhah]
* '''Additional Characters:''' [[Meriell Bell]], [[Rinako Ura]], [[Black Forest]], [[Rorosa Rosa]], [[Odette Veaureaux]], [[Zetoh'a Velshado]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''General'''</div>===
'''Shinnan Solah Nelhah''', which is her full name but simply goes by '''Shin''', is a Gridanian toxicologist and well-known apothecary, recognized mostly for being incredibly arrogant and unpleasant towards others.

Spunky and arrogant beyond belief, this Keeper Miqo’te bends all stereotypes of her species as well as scholars alike. A sharp tongue and never shy to express her opinion, she will shut people up within a matter of seconds. Accompanied with her quick temper and know-it-all attitude, it’s best to stay clear of her unless she finds some interest in someone which honestly it's almost impossible.

She is more likely to scold and insult people off rather than helping despite her profession, as she has little love for people overall, finding them to be the biggest vermin to ever exist. She's business first, and pleasure later, usually one who prefers to be on her own and sees friendships as little more than a humorous distraction.

Shin prefers to utilize her words as a weapon, and is known for a sharp, silver tongue, always one to enter an argument, leaving people in a state of rage. She's blunt, witty, rarely kind with her words, but in the end she gets things done.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''Personality'''</div>===

From the beginning, anyone can tell what distinguishes Shin the most: her arrogance.

She will always approach people with a high-and-mighty attitude and very often as if trying to show them that they are vermin when compared to herself. Teasing and pushing buttons to the limit, few people can stand to even be in her presence and that suits her just fine.

Snarky and insulting, she does not hold back her thoughts and speaks with zero filter, quickly letting people know if she hates them or accepts them. Prideful and with a high air that would inflate an entire air balloon, people tend to hate her and move away after just a few words exchanged with her. Only select few seem to have ever managed to break that wall; and once they do, Shin can prove to be a very valuable and devoted friend. Granted, the teasing and annoying is still there but she tones it a bit down, or at the very least, she won’t bring up personal matters. However, it is not unheard of for her to tease her loved ones even more, as if it were her way to show them just how much she loves them. All in all, she is a mystery for the ages and only the most patient people will ever learn of her softer side which she conceals very well.

A rather emotional woman with a big heart but with a hard shell around her like a protective barrier that never breaks. She prefers to have people unaware of the fact that she may be nice, and she approaches all with her arrogance. Currently, only one man is fully experiencing her softer side, and even then she still controls the sweetness as she genuinely finds it sickening.

Despite the good and bad in her, she has a very explosive nature and can have raging fits if truly annoyed. It appears to be beyond her control as she is very quick to lose her temper and loses all rational thinking, reduced to a livid and enraged individual. It is best to stay clear of her then unless one knows precisely what words to use to calm her down. A bad joke or a tease gone too far may very easily send her into a fit in the blink of an eye.
When in some fight, she becomes ruthless and won’t hold back any punches. Stubborn to the death, she won’t ever just give up even though she knows she would lose, which is the usual. When it comes to her friends, she will gladly put her life on the line for them and won’t think twice.

A woman with a thirst for unlimited knowledge, she can often be found reading a book in some fields or under a tree or actually sitting at her desk working, or perhaps even sleeping at it as she is a workaholic. Perfectionist to the death, she will never half-ass anything and will do her utmost to satisfy herself as well as others when she promises to deliver.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''Appearance'''</div>===
[[File:shinfaceappearance.png|440px|right|]]
Shin is of very short in stature if not even one of the shortest Miqo’te to exist in the entire realm; a thing that annoys her greatly as people won’t take her seriously at first and is the source of lots of teasing. A relatively slender build accompanies her stature, making her perhaps even frail and delicate looking.

Short, often messy, ginger hairs tied into two braids or simple buns at the sides of her face, and with freckles adorning her cheeks, she is often harassed about her looks and it drives her crazy, immediately hating anyone that makes any comment about her visually. Vibrant mint green eyes also make her a stand out despite the fact that she always wears glasses due to her very poor eyesight. Without her glasses, she sees absolutely nothing. Her vision literally like a painting that had been splashed with a bucket of water or two. In her ears, she always has simple small hoops, either silver or gold as she finds such to be the most comfortable.

Always wearing black clothes usually consisting of long skirts and long sleeved shirts, she also sports a pair of black gloves which she uses to hide all the snakes bites and scars from her work, not wanting to alarm anyone or give any wrong impressions. Apart from the bite marks, she also has a very large scar over her right shoulder, and people can notice that she cannot lift her right arm too high.

Her legs and arms are always covered and she never shows a lot of skin, her robes often going all the way up to her neck; however, it is not because of any issues with her image, she simply prefers such style and has no desire to show people her skin anyway.
At times, she wears trousers due to work but her favourite are still long skirts, reaching all the way to her ankles and a top consisting of a shirt and a jacket over it. Always a belt at her waist with many pouches and flasks; always at the ready to assist or gather things even out and about.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''Occupation'''</div>===
Self-made business woman, having Toxicology as her main trade, she also dabs perfectly in Herbalism, Biology and Zoology.

Never having studied it in any official institution, she is self-taught and simply learned by the method of trial and error. Unfortunately, errors in this line of work can be deadly and she was at death’s doorstep more than once. At first suffering greatly and sick for entire weeks as her body had to defeat the poisons but at the same time it drove her to find the cures much faster and she’d use herself as a guinea pig.
Absolutely covered in bite marks and other bruises over her hands and arms as well as around her legs, they are the only visual proof of her profession which she hides anyway under many layers of clothing. Her hands always covered by a pair of black gloves which she never removes. The other thing that she benefited from the poison hunting, is her immune system which is absolutely resistant to all poisons and illnesses. She rarely will get sick and cannot even remember the last time she was.

Being at the peak of her success, she now provides her services to all clients who visit her office, regardless with what end her poisons or cures may be used. She offers secrecy as her top priority and won’t ever care to ask for whom or for what she is giving dangerous substances. Currently she supplies mostly all of the Grand Companies and also private customers that can afford her services.

Apart from poisons however, she also makes many remedies. Knowing how to induce a sickness, means she also knows very well how to remove it. Antitoxins are her second most sold product. Using all the knowledge at her fingertips, she also makes potions, poultices and other medicines which she also provides to her customers. Her potions sell well but it is not her main focus.
Other than the medical industry, being well versed in herbalism, she may, but usually doesn't, supply drugs to some clients. She is not a big fan of drug abuse but in some cases she made exceptions, those usually being medical reasons, like lessening the pain.

Although lately, trying to find any extra occupations, she turned to the lab where she started developing some explosives. Rather harmless and mostly small bombs containing gas but she is merely starting, finding a certain fascination with the technology that [[Satomi Hakase]] takes care of, and she found herself wanting to learn more. Being inept with anything involving aether, and weak physically, technology is her only source for any sort of protection and she is gradually getting better at it, making more dangerous explosives and working towards becoming a pyrotechnician on the side. She is not selling yet her inventions but slowly is applying them in some handy situations, usually life or death ones.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''Combat'''</div>===

Shin is inept in combat and has absolutely no muscle to show for and thus is not melee. However, ranged is a different story and she manages to hold her own, but, with her poor vision, even that becomes a chore. Her choice of weapon is a gun with a wooden barrel and handle. She rarely carries it around unless she is going on one of her many expeditions or expects some fighting, which in her case isn’t uncommon.
A good shot and an eye for precision despite her poor eyesight, she can be rather deadly with her gun but if someone gets up close with her, she is a sitting duck and will definitely be dealt with within a matter of seconds. She is unable to fight head on and will usually run to a corner to be unnoticed and then shoot.
[[File:Shinwithgun.png|400px|left|]]
Physically she is weak and won’t even hold a minute in a hands-on fight. The handle of her gun then becomes indispensable but even then she lacks the power in her arms to even deal any damage or hurt anyone no matter how desperate she may be.
Thanks to [[Rorick Aster]], she did learn some melee hand-to-hand combat with the use of knives/daggers but the results were more than lacking however over time she is made some progress. Every now and then he’d meet with her and train her further to at least make her able to fend for herself should the situation arise. She knew however that her skills in melee combat were poor and so she did not put too much faith in it and she just focused on using her gun, and attached a knife to the tip so she may use it when needed and stab or slash her enemies if they got too close.

Weeks after, [[Vyncent Fields]] proposed to teach her how to wield a sword and she still has to take him up on said offer as she was rather hesitant. After some come convincing from her partner, she agreed and the meeting is yet to be set.

Recently, she took to creating small mechanisms which explode upon impact thanks to what she had learned at Vylbrand Academy. Quite creative with her inventions, she started making her own explosive devices, gas bombs, smoke bombs, as well as sonic bombs. Each one with their own uses and applications. It is still a work in progress and many of her inventions fail or even backfire, once causing an entire hallway of the Academy to blow up. One of her personal favourites is sleeping gas as well as paralysis gas; as it allows her to avoid fighting and get done whatever needs to be done swiftly and without getting her hands dirty. There are more brutal ones like suffocating gasses which leave no survivors or those which poison the people who inhale the gases.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''Tendencies'''</div>===
'''Likes'''
::* If going out to eat or simply looking for a snack, fruit is the first thing she will turn to and genuinely adores
::* Sweets are her kryptonite and she will gladly munch on any sweeties she can get her hands on
::* Good Lominsan wine is sure to loosen her up and get her to chat
::* An intelligent conversation. It's probably one of the only ways to get her to lower her guard and actually converse
::* Lalafells. She respects the small people and sees them as proof that size doesn't matter

'''Dislikes'''
::* Her height when compared to other races
::* People making fun of her looks
::* People who have no goals in life and are a waste of life
::* Dangerous heights accompanied with the fear of falling
::* Deep waters, as she cannot swim and is utterly terrified of it
::* Cute things that induce nausea just by looking at them
::* Spicy or overly fragrant food, which her sensitive Miqo'te taste buds cannot stand

'''Hobbies'''
::* Books being an escape from everyday dull life, she often indulges in good books; mostly about more complex topics
::* Enjoys long walks, hiking, and being away from big cities, indulging in the silence of nature far away from stupid and useless people
::* Loves riddles and any other games that stimulate the brain; the witty ones being the best entertainment
::* Her biggest pass-time is annoying other people and checking just how much it takes until they break under the pressure

'''Skills'''
::* Fast learner with the ability to teach self
::* Knack for manipulating a conversation with her silver tongue. Whether it’s intimidation or manipulation, she knows the right things to say and how to pry to get what she wants
::* Her immune system is impenetrable after years of developing toxins and testing them on herself, thus, she cannot be poisoned and never gets sick
::* Has a very good memory for the smallest details and will gladly remind people of things past, usually those things being their mistakes

<div style="border:0px solid; padding:8px;"><b>
<div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #90AB76;">◢ Common Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She's a bitch"
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "Her vision is so bad that without glasses she is almost blind"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #F37E1D;">◢ Uncommon Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#F37E1D;" size="3">■</font> "She can be nice... if she likes you which is most likely not going to happen unless you're a Lalafell"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #D83018;">◢ Rare Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#D83018;" size="3">■</font> "Shinnan? ..Isn't that the name of her sister?"

<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #aac5b4;">◢ PC Rumours</div></b>

: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "Mmm... I think she's about to leap over the bar and strangle you" - [[Ririfu Rifu]]
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "Don't let yourself get fooled by her scholarly look, she is not one of the typically shy, reclusive bookworms. She is very blunt and forward, not wasting time with niceties, very pragmatic! But I learned really quick how she really is, and in a good way, luckily" - [[Sini'to Shadar]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''Relationships'''</div>===

<center><font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Family    <font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> Love    <font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> Platonic    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Failed     <font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> Good    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> Neutral    <font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> Poor    </center>

'''Love Interests'''

:<font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> [[Sini'to Shadar]] (32)
A chance meeting at the most ridiculous gathering, Shin found this priest hanging out away from the crowd and the two began talking. It took very little to see that they had a lot in common and she quickly developed immense respect for him. Over the next few days, they grew even closer and Sini'to didn't mind her snarky personality. Shin started to truly enjoy his company and would start seeking out unconsciously until the two truly grew attached. He finally asked her out the day before Starlight; and on Starlight, she told him she agreed. Ever since then, the two are inseparable. The love they have for each other is clear to anyone no matter how weird the couple may seem. Shin adores him above anything else and is fully dedicated to him. His kindness and patience, as well as his understanding, all being things she admires and loves about him. They are currently engaged and to be wed.

'''Friends'''

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Adham Hadad]] (15)
A lad she found in the streets of Ul'dah begging for money. He approached her asking for spare gil and she decided to take him to the market area and paid for all he needed. Over the days to come, she brought him food and blankets, always staying to talk and enjoy each other’s company. Gradually, he grew attached to her and she noticed it. Seeing great potential in the lad, she took him to Vylbrand Academy where she was working at the time and he became a caretaker. Little did she know that in the following days he asked her to marry him. Adoring the boy as a son, she refused.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Ririan Ruruan]] (19)
Charming and timid Lalafell that Shin met at the Quicksand and the two quickly became very close together, but he always saw Shin as more and always tried to impress her somehow; being kind, inviting her out and even making her boxed lunches. It was clear that Shin's love for the lad was purely motherly but she couldn't deny she had a sentiment for him but she'd never cross that line for many reasons. The two remained very close and she took care of him through thick and thin as he entered the Paladin program.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Ririfu Rifu]] (18)
Meeting this little Lalafell in the Quicksand of all places, she couldn't help but feel the need to help the girl and approached her at the counter of the bar. The girl was rather shy but after talking for longer, she immediately opened up and showed to have a very sweet and lovable disposition. The two girls met almost every day in the Quicksand until Shin invited her to attend the Vylbrand Academy as a student, to which Ririfu agreed. Ever since then, the two have been inseparable.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Seseli Seli]] (36)
An acquaintance from the Vylbrand Academy, she met Seseli through Ririfu as the two started dating. Always watching over them and vouching for them. Alas, after a few months Seseli came to her heartbroken and said that things ended. Offering a shoulder to cry on and ears to listen, they grew close very quickly and Seseli found a very good friend in Shin, so good, the Lalafell asked her to date. Unable to tell her that she wasn’t interested, she lied to her and said she wasn’t ready.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Noir Velacia]] (19)
Hyur Midlander with an incredibly likable nature. Even Shin was unable to hate the woman and the two bonded quickly, as Noir became the Miqo'te's very first friend in Ul'dah ever since her arrival. The two got into many troubles together but always made it out together with their teamwork. While Noir was the cheery airhead who could pack a punch, Shin was the brains between the two.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Meriell Bell]] (19)
A young Hyur waitress she met while stopping by the Bobbing Cork while doing research in the North Shroud. The talkative girl would always approach her and serve her on each visit and eventually they began to talk on friendlier terms, to the point that the visits became an often occurrence, even just to spend time together and catch up. While endearing, Shin always saw her as a very simple-minded person and never involved her too much in her own private matters.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Volcatia Volturcius]] (29)
Garlean woman that Shin met in the Quicksand. Despite the woman’s cheery nature and attitude, she never revealed Shin her real name and only went as ‘V’. Suspicious but appreciative of the woman, Shin did not mind her company and was saved by her many times, gaining her trust. However, they also had many confrontations even deadly ones between each other. Things quickly escalated once V learned that Shin knows that she was Garlean but Shin decided to protect the woman instead of giving her away.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Rorick Aster]] (20-23)
One of Shin's best clients despite having a rather peculiar start. Meeting him at the Quicksand needing a medic to heal his broken arm and ribs, Shin offered her help and did some back alleyway curing. It was obvious immediately that what brought them together most was their arrogance but also a mutual respect for one another. Learning of her profession, he immediately made her his main provider for poisons and other remedies and she always delivered. Every now and then, instead of gil in exchange he’d provide help as a bodyguard.

'''Acquaintances'''

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Koji Ichihara]] (26)
Doman man that Shin met in Limsa Lominsa after getting help from him by getting her off a bridge despite her immense gear of heights. She wanted to repay him but he refused, and it immediately rubbed her the wrong way but the two got along somehow and she even took him on one of her expeditions once she learned that he was interested in Allagan history. She respects the man and his words, seeing as someone smarter beyond his years but she still has issues tolerating his aloof nature.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Vyncent Fields]] (35)
Half-Garlean man whom Shin also met in the Quicksand and quickly learned that they had a common acquaintance, that being [[Ryan Cooper]] and she asked him if he could punch him for her, and he immediately agreed. Things went not very well and she later tended to his wounds while they talked about the politics of his nation as well as the resentment he was receiving. Having nothing against Garleans, she clearly stated she was an ally and would help him out whenever needed.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Kathir Ragewind]] (200)
A member of security as well as bar staff at the Respite, this immense black Hrothgar quickly rubbed Shin the wrong way as he easily tore down her walls and would call her out on her arrogant nature, blaming her solitude loneliness for it. She did not appreciate the comments and well recognizing that he is a good man, she would begin to avoid him, not wanting to engage in conversation as she knew that he would figure her out with ease if they were to talk further.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Jochi Ejinn]] (??)
A very brief acquaintance at the Respite, meeting the Au Ra shaman loitering around the establishment before deciding to bother him with idle talk. He did catch her interest with his magic and overall disposition but the meeting was cut short when another Au Ra stepped into the picture, and the shaman assisted. Ever since, Shin had not seen him and she avoids him as the moment he had entered her laboratory, he accused her of being Garlean, but luckily she was able to settle his worries at the time.

'''Enemies'''

:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> [[O'rahn Kevelan]] (19)
This young lad rubbed Shin the wrong way immediately the moment she stepped through Vylbrand Academy's doors. She couldn’t justify why this spunky redhead immediately fell into her ‘most hated’ list, but they were at each other’s’ throats since the beginning. Fiery and snarky, he’d always have something to tell her and it would tick her off immediately and send her into a rage, trying to pick a fight with him. They always act like true brother and sister. Even though Shin does look after him behind his back, she despises him with a passion and the feeling is definitely mutual.

:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> [[L'dhala Tia]] (36)
Approaching the man by accusing him of getting her friend Ririfu drunk, a fight broke out instantly, thus their relation is not very good. The way the man speaks and acts just sends her overboard, genuinely thinking he is retarded or has some sort of weird lisp that needs fixing. She avoids him at all costs as the mere sight of him makes her blood boil.

:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> [[Ryan Cooper]] (?)
A Keeper man Shin ran into after some issues regarding [[Volcatia Volturcius]] and he got aggressive with the woman and Shin immediately disapproved. She ran into him another time afterwards and got assaulted by the man who demanded information on the Garlean but she did not provide any and more confrontations took place. Shin always managed to avoid the man but she was each time to close to getting beaten by him.

:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> [[Sho Ishiku]] (?)
Meeting this Au Ra lady in the Goblet during a social gathering, Shin quickly learned that the woman was cursed and was begging for help with her issue as her life was on the line. Shin took it upon herself to assist her and spent countless sleepless nights searching for a cure and with the assistance of [[Jochi Ejinn]], they were able to help her. However, as the woman regained her personality, Shin regretted instantly as this one tried to coerce her into bed and when rejected, threatened to blow her up with her entire lab. Infuriated, Shin did not waste any time and immediately made an uproar about it in the Respite with all the member being witness.

:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] (?)
While their interactions were brief, Shin immediately began to avoid the woman as this one would lack any sort of respect and would refer to Shin as 'kin' despite being told not to. This alone was reason enough to despise the woman and avoid her, not even the fact of her being pregnant inspiring any sort of sympathy. She had heard many rumours about the woman and they were bad enough to draw a clear line.

'''Failed Relationships:'''

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> [[Aelfred Sigmundsson]] (35)
One of the very first people she met as she stepped into the Quicksand for the very first time. This loud-mouthed brute Hyur knew his way around the city and gladly offered her a helping hand in learning the ways in Thanalan. Over time they grew close and he became her very first lover and she was quite happy with him, but the romance was short lived as she found out that he was cheating on her from his secret lover who also had no idea of Shin. She quickly left the man and shut herself out from any men.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> [[Lofen Melocuil]] (26)
Charmer and a flirt, the Miqo’te detective swept her off her feet in her most vulnerable moment and used her for his own pleasures. She only discovered after a long time that he was already engaged to another woman. Distraught, she sought out the woman and tried to apologize to her, explaining that she had no idea even about her existence but it only made things worse. Eventually, Lofen abandoned his lover and then his visits to Shin’s office became much more frequent, as he’d use these visits to let loose some steam, but it took her little time to understand that it was a toxic relationship and she ended it despite having still some feelings for the man. Once again, she just left the public eye for some time to be in peace and to deal with her solitude.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] (32)
Hard working, devoted and famous gladiator in the Gladiator's Guild in Ul’dah, they met in the Quicksand over some drinks and in the middle of that, decided to have a walk where things quickly escalated and they ended up sleeping with each other that very night. A one-night fling turned into a long term romance as the two even talked about moving in together and perhaps starting a family. Naoh’to, however suddenly left one day, leaving her a note that he’d be back eventually. Weeks turned to months and no news was received until he finally came back, penniless and a drunkard with nothing to show for and no future. It turned out that he had met his ex-lover who had contacted him because she was pregnant with his child from before he even met Shin. The poor man had no idea what to do and his options were limited. Thus, heartbroken but with no choice, Shin let him go.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] (23)
Shin met this Miqo’te early on when she first came to Ul’dah and they had immediate chemistry for each other but it never flowered into anything, the two remaining friends if not even mere acquaintances. After being left by Naoh’to and shattered, Vezh’a decided to give it a try and after all these years of a normal friendship, asked her out. She refused immediately and wouldn’t even speak of starting any relationship but over time, gradually, she warmed up to the man and got used to his presence in her life, realizing that she did have some sentiment for him. Finally, she agreed. Time went by but she quickly understood that she’d never be able to give him what he wanted and she went to him and explained this, telling him that she will leave him. He did not take it well and they broke up on very bad terms.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''History'''</div>===

<center>'''Please note that all information below is common knowledge that Shin may share depending on her relationship with people; however there are still many secrets behind many decisions and those must be learned IC'''</center>

'''Upbringing''' (0-18)

<spoiler>
Born in the Shroud in Bentbranch to an agricultural family with four older brothers, she was always the odd-ball which did not necessarily enjoy what her family was dedicated to. Breaking away from tribal life, her family had established itself within the Central Shroud and managed to make a very good and comfortable living by working the land. Big terrains of fields belonged to her family and working in them was the daily routine for her parents and the eldest brothers with a couple helpers.

From the beginning, it was clear that Shin wasn’t going to follow in the family tradition and she did everything to displease her parents and those around her like a rebel. Stuck-up and certain of herself, she quickly gained the reputation of headstrong even as a child, and needed to be involved in absolutely everything regarding the community.

Teased and annoyed by her brothers due to being the only girl in the family, she quickly grew a backbone and a short temper, snapping at every little annoying word or complaint sent her way, often exploding in rage; a trait which remains until today. Growing older, she was finally told that she’d have to work in the fields like the rest of her family and her immense rebel phase set in. She’d wake up early morning before anyone else and go to the woods to avoid working the fields, where she sat for hours on end, merely enjoying the calm and nature surrounding her. It created a certain love for nature, and at the same time, hatred for people.
Coming back home, her absences often weren’t taken well and she’d be part arguments and fights, which only got worse as she grew older and her rebel behaviour continued; cementing her loathing for her family further, especially her parents.
</spoiler>

'''Leaving the Shroud''' (18-22)

<spoiler>
When she came of age and got the opportunity to leave the family home, she immediately did without thinking twice, cutting all ties with her past to start anew. On very rare occasions communicating via letters but only in case of some emergencies. As far as she is concerned, they do not exist in her life.

With time, she started to study herbalism as she traveled the realm, nature being her one love where she felt she truly belonged and enjoyed. Quickly, the hobby became a passion and she got into it professionally. People would think that she would study more biology or zoology but she got into toxicology; creating anti-toxins, poisons and other applications for medicine for those that could not afford help at first. The reason for this, she will never reveal and she keeps it to herself but perhaps the right person might convince her one day to reveal this secret.

Gradually, Shin made a name for herself in the community in the Shroud and was outdoing herself in her work. And yet, it wasn’t enough for her. Dreams of grandeur and wanting to do more was her main drive as she slowly made plans to leave the Shroud and move to a bigger thing, a bigger calling.

Working day in and day out, she’d make all she could to surpass her rivalry and be the best she could but it came with a price as her health would deteriorate, making her a rather feeble woman with close to no strength at all in her body. She ignored all the signs of exhaustion and pushing onward, she finally set her goals on Thanalan and one day just packed her most essential things and left.
The desire to help people and challenge herself brought her to Ul’dah where she is residing until today. Life there was definitely different than in the Shroud but she adapted fairly quickly to the bustle of the infamous trade city. Most of her time, anyway, was spent out in the desert collecting poisonous plants, animals and anything else she can get her hands on to satisfy her thirst for more and be the best in her trade. Workaholic to the death.
</spoiler>

'''Making A Name In Ul'dah''' (22-25)

<spoiler>
Her first time away from the Shroud, Shin adapted quickly to the arid lands of Thanalan but not to the bustling life that filled the immense streets of the great city.
It made her reconsider and even think about returning but that thought quickly disappeared as a chance meeting with a certain mercenary Hyur, [[Aelfred Sigmundsson]] made her change her mind. The man was kind enough to offer her help in establishing herself in the city and showed her all the ropes to it. With his guidance, she quickly found a place to live in and would slowly make a name for herself by helping refugees and the poor in the slums of Ul’dah.

Over her time in Ul’dah and already having a comfortable life and living quarters, she ran into a boy in the streets, [[Adham Hadad]]. Approached by him and asking her for gil, she took him to the market in the city and offered to pay for anything he needed and the boy did just that, immediately bonding with Shin quickly and he was the very first to do so. Every day, apart from tending to those in need, she’d put [[Adham Hadad]] as her top priority and provided for the boy, bringing him anything from food, to blankets and even books to educate him as she’d sit with him and read to him, also teaching him to read and write.
During this period, her relationship with the Hyur also grew and the two became a couple, him being her very first lover. It was a huge thing for her and she was content by how things were looking. She took in [[Adham Hadad]] to live with her and even told him that he’d help her gather herbs as he was from the area and was knowledgeable. The boy outshined and did more than she even expected and she grew to love him as a son.

[[Aelfred Sigmundsson]], however, was cheating on Shin and she discovered that from the woman with whom he was sleeping as this one had no idea either about Shin herself. Upset, she cut off contact with the man immediately and was convinced she’d never allow anyone to step into her life and built a wall, her snarky attitude and annoyance to all people starting to develop during this period. [[Adham Hadad]], at the time, noticing how depressed she was and how salty about life overall, would try to fill her days with joy but it never helped. Weeks, months, a year went by and the boy finally proposed to Shin, telling her flat out that he wanted to have children with her and it left her dumbfounded. The age difference was the first thing that came to mind but also, her love for him was purely motherly. She told him off gently but he still clung to the dream of being with her, but it was never going to happen.
[[File:Shinandnaohto.png|400px|left]]
Many people came and left and some of the most memorable was [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] a young and friendly Miqo’te man with whom she felt she could actually talk about anything and not be judged. Their acquaintance lasted shortly as he ventured out North and they kept no contact with each other after that. Indulging further in the bar-life and loathing it, she crossed paths with a charming Miqo’te man who worked as a detective, [[Lofen Melocuil]]. Not in need of his services however, she told him off but he kept pursuing her which she found annoying and he’d be met with her awful attitude that developed over this time of grievance. His perseverance paid off however as he got her during her most vulnerable moment ever to date and she fell for him. The relationship purely sexual on his part while she genuinely believed he cared for her.

Couple months passed and she learned from him that he was engaged to another woman by the name of [[Chee Smith]]. Absolutely crushed, she couldn’t wrap her head around it and lost her mind. Enraged and feeling absolutely guilty, she sought out the woman and offered her most sincerest apologies, aware of how much it hurt to be cheated upon as she had been through the same. [[Chee Smith]] took the news very badly and things only went downhill from there. Shin distanced herself from the Miqo'te couple immediately, not wanting to be the reason for an eminent break up.

Absolutely soulless at this point, Shin’s nature grew stone cold and she refused all people. Her temper lost within a matter of seconds and mentally unstable. She even distanced herself from [[Adham Hadad]], feeling that she failed as a role model to the boy and not wanting him to see her suffer. Apart from her personal life, she still did a solid living and had a stable income. But deep down, she was unhappy.

And this is when faith smiled upon her and her lousy luck. A man sat at her table in the Quicksand and introduced himself as [[Naoh'to Maimhov]]. A hard-working gladiator in the Sands in Ul’dah, he was proving to be a very pleasant chat and he briefly managed to make her even look away from her writing. Talking all evening, he decided to show her some of the fauna personally outside of the walls of the great city. Talk turned to flirts, and flirts into making love in the bushes. This brief and fleeting happiness, only made Shin want to close herself more but the man came back the next day, offering her help with her research and even simple things as carrying groceries. It pleased her greatly but she didn’t get her hopes up. After a good few months, it became apparent that the two became a couple and were having a good life with a very good income as [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] made himself a name in the Sands and became a renowned gladiator.

At the Quicksand, she also met an old friend of [[Aelfred Sigmundsson]], [[Noir Velacia]] a cheery girl that no matter what, was intent on becoming Shin’s friend; something she wasn’t too keen on happening. But the girl was incredible stubborn and after a good few months, she managed to break her walls. Shin often goes to [[Noir Velacia]] when seeking advice or mere simple talk as she is not really a smart one. Also, [[Ririfu Rifu]], a charming and absolutely adorable Lalafell caught Shin’s eye at the Quicksand and so they engaged in conversation. They met every single day in the bar and they quickly grew a mutual respect and close-knit relationship. Shin always had an affinity with Lalafells and she genuinely enjoyed their company.
</spoiler>

'''Teaching at Vylbrand Academy''' (25-26)

<spoiler>
Becoming a known toxicologist and medic, having also a stable personal life, Shin indulged in the peace and quiet. Having [[Ririfu Rifu]] and [[Noir Velacia]] as a constant source of joy and also [[Adham Hadad]] who helped her out, she couldn’t complain. Paired with [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] at her side, she couldn't ask for more. But a chance meeting with [[Seren Sian]] an aether professor at a known academy in La Noscea called Vylbrand Academy, offered Shin a job after seeing what she was capable of after accidentally drugging [[Ririfu Rifu]]. Having a stable life and no new thrills, Shin accepted the offer quite gladly.

Stepping into the dignified position of a professor without any experience, Shin managed to excel and met all expectations but still bent many rules. Laid back and uncaring for the majority of the students, she quickly became one of the, if not the most, hated teacher in the entire institution. With her background and her natural skills, she became a biology teacher and would often take out students into the field as she genuinely believe that a more hands-on approach would benefit them more. Her classes were never given in a classroom as she found it a complete waste of time. In her free time, she indulged in the laboratory with [[Satomi Hakase]], a fellow professor but of alchemy. This is also when she met the thaumaturgy teacher, [[Dietrich Dracht]], a very rich merchant from Ul'dah. Apart from him, she got very close with one of the main guards of the academy, [[Nonoqano Roroqano]], a Lalafell that seemed to have a very close relationship with Shin and they’d often go out to drink and talk behind students backs. Many rumours circulated that there was more than mere friendship between the two.
[[File:shinandlalafells.png|500px|right]]
On the first days, she immediately made enemies with a fiery redhead Miqo’te [[O'rahn Kevelan]]. For reasons that neither of them or anyone could explain, they were at each other’s’ throats immediately and got along like a cat and a mouse; Shin being the cat and him the victim of her harassment. Finding them fighting was a common occurrence on a daily basis and on more than one occasion it got physical and they had to be separated by [[Nonoqano Roroqano]].

Quickly getting bored of teaching stupid kids, she got tasked additionally with overseeing the infirmary which made her rekindle her love with her native profession. Juggling two tasks, she excelled in all expectations and was proud of her achievements. With her taking over the infirmary, there was a big drop in sick students, as they were much too terrified to even go see her for tiny injuries. When Shin caught a student skipping class, it was certain that the punishment was so severe they’d never try it again in their lives.

Again, she got tired of her dull duties, needing something more to indulge her intellect. Seeing this, Seren Sian, the professor that had her join Vylbrand in the first place, offered her to assist her in the library and thus, Shin also became the academy’s librarian together with [[Seren Sian]]. The two were very different and weren’t friends but got along professionally perfectly.

Despite all the chaos and issues she caused, Shin remained in the academy as an invaluable member of staff and respected individual. Always engaged in all meetings and overseeing many deliveries and also making sure the infirmary was always stocked up and in order.

It was during this time that slowly things started to look a bit grim as an old contact [[Lofen Melocuil]] returned to her life, informing her that he broke his engagement with [[Chee Smith]] and was looking to rekindle their old flame. Enraged, she refused and wanted to see him off but he was smart and crafty and always found ways to convince her to see otherwise and took full advantage of her yet again, using her as a source to blow off steam. The same story repeating itself all over again and Shin was broken knowing that she was cheating on [[Naoh'to Maimhov]], and yet she was being fully manipulated by [[Lofen Melocuil]], genuinely believing that his words were true.
His visits were frequent and kept secret for a long time before she finally couldn’t take it anymore and told him to leave. The guilt eating at her and unable to forgive herself, she begged him to leave and he didn’t take it well as he then confessed to her his love and apologized for his ways. Damage already done, she merely told him to leave and never come back; which he did. Finding peace and finally able to just be set free from the stress and able to close a chapter for good, Shin returned her focus to her own personal life which required more attention from her, and [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] was most happy to see her happy again. He never learned of her cheating and Shin will take that to her grave.

To make amends for her sins, she got [[Adham Hadad]] to join the academy as a member of staff and mostly taking care of the grounds and he quickly found an idol in [[O'rahn Kevelan]]; something that she couldn’t comprehend and absolutely despised but she never voiced it to [[Adham Hadad]], but others were very well aware. [[Ririfu Rifu]] also got invited by Shin as she offered her to be a student and the Lalafell gladly agreed. Settling in easily and adored by all due to her cheery disposition, she caught the eye of another fellow Lalafell lady named [[Seseli Seli]] and the two established a quick relationship.

The peace did not last long as always something just had to always happen. The academy got a request from the Sagolii Desert that a large worm the size of the entire house was terrorizing the town of Forgotten Springs. The academy gathered the best students and the professors and headed to the desert to kill the vermin.
[[File:sagoliidesertmission.png|600px|right]]
Inept in aether and not a fighter in the least, Shin assisted as a medic together with [[Satomi Hakase]]. The two oversaw everyone from a distance and only interfered when absolutely necessary. The fight however became a thing impossible to win as students were flying everywhere and professors were getting the beating of their life. Shin had never been in combat before and this was alien to her, her brain unable to keep up with what was happening.

They were having a very hard time and it was putting their skills to the test. The worm’s saliva was so corrupted and poisonous that it corroded anything it came into contact with, skin included. The amount of burns was astronomical and Shin found herself running from person to person, trying to treat the wounds and prevent horrible scarring as best as she could.

[[Adham Hadad]], with his idol [[O'rahn Kevelan]], they would attack the worm and try to keep it away from the weaker students and the injured. Shin was absolutely terrified for the boy that she loved as a son and would put his safety before that of others, keeping a close eye on him during the entire encounter. Together with [[Adham Hadad]], her top priority was [[Ririfu Rifu]] who was jumping all over the worm and trying to stab it to death. At one point, the Lalafell fell off the worm’s back and was about to get crushed but seeing this, Shin made a dash and managed to catch her friend in her arms, saving her from dying by a split second. She then tossed [[Ririfu Rifu]] to the side the moment she noticed the worm head their way. She knew she wouldn’t be able to avoid it so at the very least she wanted to save her friend. Seeing this, [[Adham Hadad]] shielded her as he made his way to her among the chaos but they both got trapped in the creature’s mouth, suffering at toxic saliva as It burnt through their clothes and skin; all whilst struggling to get out. In the confusion, and trying to find some way out, [[Adham Hadad]] ended up stabbing Shin a couple times and once in her shoulder which made her unable to lift her arm above her head until this very day and the scar is still there; a reminder of the worst day in her life. Luckily, they were saved by [[Seren Sian]], immediately running off to a corner to get treated by [[Satomi Hakase]]. Hearing all the screaming and the people fighting, Shin passed out from blood loss and trauma, awakening the next day in the infirmary.

The following days proved to be hard as Shin couldn’t cope with what she saw and experienced, swearing to never again participate in any heroics, leaving that to the people who didn’t value their lives. Whenever she’d hear of her friends going on such expeditions, she’d firmly oppose it every single time, entering infuriating arguments.
</spoiler>

'''Establishing The Silver Sigil''' (26)

<spoiler>
Shin retired from Vylbrand Academy after all the developments and chaotic teachings and decided to settle down in the Goblet, buying a modest house with her life savings and establishing her office there.
The idea of finally settling down and tying the knot with [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] was just around the corner and Shin was on cloud number nine. Working day and night to make ends meet and save up money for the future and the days to come as he also did his best in the Sands.
However, the joy didn’t last long as one day she awoke to find a letter left by him and he was nowhere to be found. In it, he explained that he had to leave on business and that he’d return shortly. Shin awaited days, which soon became weeks and eventually months and not a word, not even a letter.

Growing tired and depressed all over again, she started to fall back into old habits as her workaholic side resurfaced and she worked at all times to the point of sleeping at her desk. Not once did she sleep in her bed ever since [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] left despite getting a new bed too. Her desk became her bed and her table; it was her prison.
The sadness and solitude was broken as [[Satomi Hakase]] and more people, including [[Ririfu Rifu]] and [[Seseli Seli]] came to Shin requesting for a place to stay as the Vylbrand Academy turned into some semi-military institution and even the professors did not approve of this twist. Not wanting to turn down the people that she held dear, she reluctantly agreed but under the condition that she kept her room; which of course no one had issues with.
Shin was very opposed to having all the people flock over to the house and it got her blood boiling but she zipped it and tried to contain the annoyance, taking it out on her work as she sunk deeper and deeper into it, barely ever crawling out of her room. Time past and eventually the house for transformed into a guild without her knowledge and she absolutely exploded at the news but after a long talk with the rest of the people, she lost the debate and agreed to donate her house. No news of [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] in over a year thus, she assumed it was over or perhaps he was dead, so she had no use of the house anyway.

The Silver Sigil Adventurers Guild was established in the weeks to come and people came from far and wide, mostly travelers searching for a place to rest and stock up. Shin continued her business and would make her poisons as well as remedies, mostly providing for the military as well as the Grand Companies but also occasional private customers who could afford her help. And one day, and old face appeared under the guise of a customer. [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] visited her and told her he wanted to join the guild and offer his mercenary as well as guarding skills to the people that needed them. Shocked to see the man, she merely nodded and helped him begin within the house.

[[File:Shinandvex.png|400px|left]] Indulging more and more in her work, [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] couldn’t help but notice how much she had changed but it appeared the old spark they once had long time ago still remained and he would always try to make her smile, which most the time failed, but when it worked, it was rather pleasant even to Shin. The two spent almost every day together, mostly him pestering Shin and getting her in over her head and absolutely livid with him, but he knew her well and was aware that it was merely her nature, thus, he’d just laugh, sending her overboard.
Finally, after a good long months and still no news from [[Naoh'to Maimhov]], Shin started to give in to the small flirts and attention she was getting from [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]], finding care and comfort in his words and mere presence. His persistence and stubborn nature finally paid off as they became a couple and they got along quite nicely. Odd at first as Shin would often think about [[Naoh'to Maimhov]], wondering what happened or if he even was alive. Despite adoring [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] without question, she still felt that her love for [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] was undying and she’d never be able to give [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] the same one.

Months passed and life went ahead, daily routines and peace of mind was starting to settle in. One day coming back with groceries, she found a man at the gates of the guild, sitting on the ground and drinking. She didn’t recognize the man but the moment he called her ‘dove’, which was a nickname only [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] used, she felt her entire world crumble. He came back penniless and drunk beyond belief and she couldn’t even recognize him. She did her best trying to get him to talk and tell her where he had been and he confessed to her. It had turned out that a woman with whom he had a fling with before meeting Shin, was in fact with his child and he had to go see and confirm if it was true. Shin felt the ground crumble under her but she kept her cool as best she could. She accepted him regardless and wanted to build her future with him. Reluctantly, he agreed to give it a try.

Knowing what she wanted, she now had to give the news to [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]]. She visited his room and lied to him. She couldn’t tell him that an old love had returned and so, she told him that they were merely not fit for each other and that she couldn’t see herself with him. The man was in utter shock and even had plans with her, but they were all burnt at that point. Absolutely enraged, he went into a fit and all she could hear were his screams all the way from down the hallway as she tried to cover her ears. Next thing she saw was him storming out of his room and leaving the guild. With [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] leaving, Shin focused on [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] and yet, she felt guilty and couldn’t come to terms with how she had said goodbye and that guilt never left her, genuinely loving the man but it was too late to fix anything as he had told her that he never wanted to even see her face. To forget all that, she focused on getting [[Naoh'to Maimhov]] back in shape but it never worked. He never returned to what he was and only drank more and more to the point of stupor and it was clear that trying to fix things was going to fail.
Coming back home one day, she found him packing his bags and he told her that he was finally leaving to take care of the child he had fathered. Understanding him fully, she just nodded and wished him good luck, seeing him leave for the second but last time.

Having enough and utterly fed up with all the fails, Shin would all the time return to the only thing she loved and wouldn’t cause her problems: work. She shut herself out from everyone completely even her best friends and slowly turned to Moko Grass which she started to smoke to calm her nerves and drinking but not in big amounts. However, it gradually did escalate. Despite [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] leaving, she had promised to help him with his troubles and in the background would do what she could. She visited the grave of his dead sisters in Coerthas and would take care of it, lighting candles whenever she’d go visit and cleaning it before offering a small prayer. Also, she was fully aware of his own problems, where he couldn’t control his aether or of some sorts and would go into raging fits and then not remember anything, but leaving bloodshed everywhere.

She reached out to a suspicious but reliable and well known mage [[Dodoshobo Bibishobo]]. Hard to convince the man, she was well aware of what he was known for and that was Moko Grass. She didn’t visit him empty handed and threw an entire wagon-worth of Moko Grass to his feet, demanding his help. The Lalafell gladly agreed and when [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] finally visited the man, this one offered his help and solved his problems. Alas, the mage had a big mouth and had to tell him that she had help and so he sought her out and found her gathering herbs in the Central Shroud. Exchanging a couple pleasantries among other things, she informed her that he was engaged and to be wed to a girl that had joined the Guild merely days before his departure, called [[Rinako Ura]]. Shin did not know how to feel about the news and had mixed feelings about it. On one side ecstatic for him and yet at the same time crushed.

Back at The Silver Sigil, Shin couldn’t get out the news of him being engaged and it interrupted her work and every single thing in her daily life. During this time, [[Seseli Seli]] approached Shin, confiding in her and finding a shoulder to cry on as [[Ririfu Rifu]] had unknowingly cheated upon her. The girl was so innocent that she saw no wrong in her actions, and Shin didn’t blame neither of the girls. Seeing as the two were going through hard times together, they supported each other and grew incredibly close as Shin finally would leave her room, even if only to pester [[Seseli Seli]] in hers.

Things started to gradually return to normal as time was the best medicine and then [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] returned to the Guild with [[Rinako Ura]], sending Shin for an emotional roller-coaster ride. Still smoking and now a bit of a heavy drinker, she wasn’t thinking straight and decided to pay him a visit to talk. The talk however turned into a discussion and then into a fight. Both of them at the height of their emotions as tears fell and screams were heard. She wanted to rekindle her relationship with him despite leaving him, even though she was aware he was engaged to another woman. Just once, she wanted to be selfish…
[[File:Shinandsesishgard2.png|450px|right]]
[[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] visited her the same evening in her room only to find her passed out drunk on the floor. Started a new fight and discussion once she came to, she was enraged and livid at him, telling him to hate her so she could move away. She was aware that he still had feelings for her and that was what kept her going and trying to get him back. She had to make him hate her, and she told him so; to which he replied he couldn’t. In response, that was the very first and only time she got physical and slapped him across the face. He left without a word. Shin would see the couple every single day and it would just re-open old wounds, and she tried to avoid watching at all costs but some things just happen in front of her as it was unavoidable. Then, one day she received a letter from [[Seseli Seli]] who was inviting her over to Ishgard as it appeared that some noble family contracted her to have some weaving work done for them. Seeing this as a chance to break away and heal a bit, Shin agreed and within the next few days she found herself for the very first time in Ishgard. The two ladies immediately met up and caught up on so many news, growing closer with each day as Shin actually would look after her as the Ishgardians didn’t take too well to strangers, and especially Lalafell.

The next day, Shin got into immense trouble by insulting the Archbishop while in the cathedral and got kicked out; only to be found by [[Seseli Seli]] and taken care of by her for a change. Shin then took her to the Athenaeum Astrologicum and showed her a telescope, offering to show her the stars and she knew that was something that the woman adored. Curious, the Lalafell spent at least an hour observing the glittering stars in the distance and was entranced by them to such extent that she didn’t notice that she had fallen ill. Enraged, Shin immediately put the woman to bed only to wake up next morning to find her gone with a note stating that she was back at work.
With disbelief, Shin took her leave and returned to Thanalan feeling already much better and rejuvenated. Her interactions with [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] returning to friendly and not imposing anything on the young man, and even trying to bond a bit with his fiancée [[Rinako Ura]] which proved to be very easy considering the girl’s sweet disposition.
</spoiler>

'''Rocky Start & Leaving The Guild''' (27)

<spoiler>
Returning to her duties and work, Shin was much more at ease and finally had faced her demons and was feeling much better. She came to terms with her solitude and convinced herself that sharing a life with someone wasn’t meant for her. Routine and day after day the same with every now and then some odd occurrences happening within The Silver Sigil which would drive her up the wall; she remained rather distant however as she refused to get overly close to anyone no matter who it was. [[Seseli Seli]] being truly the only one that came to her with visits and the two would always find stuff to do and Shin usually getting them in trouble.

One day, Shin had a flyer crash into her face as she was returning to the house from a walk and checking it out, it advertised some sort of obnoxious party in some mansion in the Mists. Reluctant, [[Ririfu Rifu]] and [[Vezh'a Yhumuzhah]] convinced her to go and they joined her.
The evening never seemed to end and Shin was dreading even attending the event, finding solace and some relative peace within the library of the mansion, allowing her friends to keep the people busy while she checked out the books and would scan through a couple of them. As she would take book by book, a man stopped her, demanding to know what she was doing. Ticked off, she would retort to him arrogantly and brush him off but the man kept pressing to know what she was doing. Reluctantly, she engaged in conversation with the man, his name was [[Sini'to Shadar]] and learned that he was a priest to the guild which hosted the awful event. The two finally left the books and decided to share a drink which turned into two bottles of wine in the end. The evening went ahead and Shin found herself still talking to the priest and even being the last guest to leave, although she didn’t leave. Having drank way too much with the man, he told her she could stay and sleep which she did on the couch in the library but not before getting him tucked into bed as he was in a very bad condition. [[File:Shinandsinito10.png|400px|right]]
The next day she woke up to find herself still in the mansion absolutely confused at first until she found [[Sini'to Shadar]] again and they, yet again, started to talk and the talking lasted hours, which included him throwing her into a tub full of water and her having to stay over yet another night while waiting her clothes to dry. The acquaintance was weird and she didn’t know what to think of it, but the teasing and button pushing made up for that.

A couple days later Shin made arrangements with [[Seseli Seli]] to have a dinner out and the two girls went to the Bismarck where they talked about many things, among others, both of their situations on a both personal and professional outlook. [[Seseli Seli]] obviously appeared anxious about something and when they returned to the guild, she confessed to Shin, stating that she wanted to start a platonic relationship with her and become a couple. Shocked and speechless, Shin had no heart to tell the Lalafell that she wasn’t interested in women so she lied her way out, saying that she simply wasn’t ready.

In the coming days, Shin visited [[Sini'to Shadar]] regularly and the two grew closer despite the arguing and teasing. His company truly made her feel happy and even appreciated to the point that she’d see him almost on a daily basis without even realizing. One evening [[Seseli Seli]] visited them at his guild and spoke with him one on one. Shin knew the topic immediately and she later questioned the Miqo’te man who admitted that the Lalafell had told him to keep himself at a distance from her as she wasn’t ready for any relationships. Pressing the matter, Shin casually asked the man if he had any intentions to pursue more and he then confessed that he did. Unknowing as to what to do but deep down she had the reply for him already, she said she’d give him her answer on Starlight which was the next day. Starlight came with the beauty of snow and the winter, cheery feeling all around. During a party at [[Sini'to Shadar]]'s guild, she took him to a more secluded area where she handed him a mistletoe as a gift and reply to his question the other day. Overjoyed, he accepted it and the two kissed and shared an embrace to seal the deal. The days to come were peaceful and filled with joy for Shin as slowly her life got back on track. She argued almost every single day with the priest about the silliest of things but anyone could see that they got along regardless and it only showed just how close they were.

A week after Starlight, [[Sini'to Shadar]] had an unexpected visit at his guild house as a ginger-haired man came in, searching for Shin it would appear. He introduced himself as [[Sehlo'sae Nelhah]], and said he was Shin brother. Baffled, but believing the man as the physical similarities were unquestionable, [[Sini'to Shadar]] listened to him and it appeared at the young man came looking for his sister to inform her of the recent death of their mother. Seeing as it was a family matter, the priest told the young man to inform Shin herself but he denied, aware that it wouldn’t please her. As the two men continued talking and exchanging pleasantries, [[Sehlo'sae Nelhah]] discovered that the priest was his sister’s current partner and was overjoyed to hear that, quickly calling the man his brother-in-law.

The next day, [[Sini'to Shadar]] informed Shin of the news of her dead mother and she was ecstatic, going as far as to saying she’d celebrate the date every year. Not commenting on that too much, but the man did question her about her past, feeling that he ought to know and Shin, reluctantly at first, but did open up to him, the very first person ever since she left the Shroud. She was even happy to share bits and pieces of her past with the man and it made them bond even closer.

Meeting with her brother privately in the Drowning Wench back in Limsa Lominsa, they exchange opinions on matters and also caught up after a decade of being apart. Despite the many differences, Shin decided to try to mend her relations with him as best as she could, making him rather happy.
Coming back to The Silver Sigil, she had to think things over. [[Sini'to Shadar]] was unable to leave his guild due to some issues concerned his safety as it appeared that some Garleans were after his head for unknown reasons. Wanting to support him and be by his side, she left The Silver Sigil and joined him in his guild for the time being, spending most her days with him. Trying to re-establish her office, she did purchase an apartment in the Goblet and set it up within a day.

Quickly, she got more active and started forming new business connections, going on a rather good streak. One of the most prominent figures became a fellow Keeper Miq’ote named [[Rorick Aster]], a bounty hunter. Arrogant and just as stuck-up as Shin, the two actually formed a good business relationship as she promised to deliver and she did, supplying him with whatever concoctions he’d demand. In exchange, he provides protection or gil.
[[File:Shinandrorickfight.png|450px|left]]
Someday, after coming to her office to pick up his next delivery, Shin decided to take the Miqo’te with her to deliver some wares to a shady guild which had rumours circulating that they were slavers. Supposedly the meeting was to be with two men but four appeared, immediately putting Shin and [[Rorick Aster]] on their guard. A fight broke out instantly but [[Rorick Aster]] proved to be an amazing fighter, if not savage, quickly beating all of them while Shin was knocked out on the ground cold. Taking her back to her office, [[Rorick Aster]] helped to clean out her head wound as well as stich it up while she tended to his own wounds. The business partnership appeared to grow even stronger despite the almost deadly encounter and the amount of teasing that occurs between them. Having suffered an almost fatal blow to the head, Shin decided to visit her partner [[Sini'to Shadar]] to get healed up as she was unable to stop the bleeding within her skull. He immediately tended to her wound and she got a good scolding for it but she took it, aware that it was well-deserved. However he wasn't mad at her and took care of her for the next few days to make sure she was fine.

In the coming days, Shin would spend some time in the Quicksand, trying to gather contacts and new customers while [[Sini'to Shadar]] was still unable to leave his guild house for his safety. There, she did make a couple shady acquaintances like [[Volcatia Volturcius]], an oddly cheery woman that is more than happy to talk but never disclosed any information about herself. She appeared rather interested in Shin’s job and gladly bought off some potions. [[Rorick Aster]] warned Shin saying that the woman does not appear too honest and that she might be a soldier looking for someone and was trying to get information out of her about a certain refugee named [[Magnus Beastcaller]]. However, Shin could not provide any information as she knew the man very briefly. Feeling like the situation was getting out of hand, [[Rorick Aster]] told her to select her customers carefully just like her partner did, making her rethink her safety. Returning to the Quicksand to try and meet with [[Magnus Beastcaller]] to ask him what the entire issue was and warn him about the suspicious woman, she instead ran into a bashful Lalafell, [[Ririan Ruruan]]. The boy was quickly invited for a small treat by Shin as she always liked Lalafells and the two grew close pretty quickly over the coming days, treating him almost like a son, however, it was obvious that his liking to Shin surpassed mere friendship and she was aware.

Not too late after, Shin took [[Ririan Ruruan]], and [[Sini'to Shadar]] to help her find a specific scorpion that she needed for her next invention back to the Sagolii Desert as she had years ago. Terrified and uncomfortable, it had to be done. [[Volcatia Volturcius]] had contacted Shin and she immediately jumped in head first without thinking. She had informed her that she had met a woman that claimed to be able to find anything by making out colours in her environment. The woman, an Au Ra named [[Tsuta Tomoko]]. The group then headed to the desert and immediately things turned back as old memories came back flooding in as a Giant Sandworm attacked them and caused havoc but after a couple lengthy and dangerous hours, they managed to get the beast down. [[Sini'to Shadar]] yet again had to tend to Shin who had a knack for getting hurt, the others hurt just as badly if some not even worse, some more mentally than physically like [[Ririan Ruruan]], who was crying in terror. That was when the Lalafell saw the two Miqo’te share a kiss and he fell silent, quickly teleporting elsewhere without saying a word. Shin was well aware of why and she planned to go visit him immediately once she healed up to clarify things.

After a couple days of healing up, Shin visited [[Ririan Ruruan]] and explained that she could not be with him as she was dating [[Sini'to Shadar]] at the time. Heartbroken but understanding, the Lalafell agreed to not pursue her anymore but he still kept his feelings at heart and would hang out with her still. At the same time, he informed her that he was going to enroll into the Paladin program which shocked her but she supported him.
</spoiler>

'''Dangerous Times''' (27)

<spoiler>
Shin visited [[Sini'to Shadar]] and out of nowhere informed him that she was going to take him for a two day vacation. Suspicious as she wasn’t one for such things, he agreed nonetheless and she settled on taking him to Lower La Noscea.
During that period she met a man in Limsa Lominsa who helped her cross one of the bridges on the upper levels. The man was [[Koji Ichihara]], some scholar interested in the Allagan Empire. Recognizing that interest, she proposed him to join her on an expedition she had planned, precisely with Allagan ruins in the middle of it. Reluctant at first, but obviously wanting something out of it himself, he agreed.

The trip finally took place but it wasn’t what [[Sini'to Shadar]] expected at all. She brought him to Lower La Noscea where they reunited with a couple more people that she had called upon. Amongst them was [[Rorick Aster]] yet again, [[Volcatia Volturcius]] and the man she had met the other day, [[Koji Ichihara]], to whom she had promised to give him some Allagan intel. Shin explained to them that she was after a shard that was formed when Dalamud hit near Candlekeep Quay.

[[File:thegroup.png|550px|right]] Everything went well until when they crossed the bridge and got attacked by some people which were dressed just like the ones that had attacked Shin and [[Rorick Aster]] back in the tunnel in Thanalan. Everyone immediately got ready for combat and they clashed. Luckily, Shin had suspected that there were people after her; reason why she had brought people along with her for protection. After the entire fight some injuries more serious than others, they all reached the crystal and Shin got what she wanted, but not before all the people started discussing the event. [[Volcatia Volturcius]] was enraged that Shin had tried to help her and separated herself from the group after almost starting a fight with the Miqo’te. Meanwhile [[Rorick Aster]], told Shin to watch herself as she was obviously a target for the guild that was already after her beforehand. Exchanging opinions and some heated words, the group split and everyone went their separate ways while Shin returned with [[Sini'to Shadar]] back to the Mists, where they still consulted on the matter.

On the next morning, Shin returned to her office in Thanalan only to discover her office that is was in a mess, as if someone had broken into her room. Looking around to find any clues, she found out that a prototype drug she was working on was stolen. Livid, she quickly gathered up what she could and immediately tried to find traces to the one responsible and after some time, she found out that whoever it was, they planned to sell her prototype drug at the Silver Bazaar.

Reaching The Mists to visit her lover and inform him of the sacking of her office and also to ask for his help, she also had [[Ririfu Rifu]] that joined her. Inside the mansion, she ran into an old friend, [[Dietrich Dracht]] with whom she exchanged a few pleasantries before he left. Her focus returned to [[Sini'to Shadar]] but that is when another old face appeared [[Adham Hadad]]. She was overjoyed to see the boy after so many years and the two had a touching reunion, almost crying as she met the boy. However, the joy was cut short as [[Sini'to Shadar]] revealed that he had come to possess a Dark Knight soulstone. Enraged, Shin stormed off to his room, leaving the rest behind, but he followed her. Clearly she was not thrilled about the news and fervently opposed it but after exchanging a few words, she agreed for him to give it a try but warning that she would definitely make him pay should he fall into the Dark Knight temptations.

Days passed and Shin decided to drop by the Quicksand to relax and just enjoy her time with [[Ririfu Rifu]] but on the way there she ran into [[Rorick Aster]] and [[Volcatia Volturcius]] who were bickering over something. Shin owed the man a shirt from their last mission as it got torn and she gave him a pink-coloured one which made him rather mad and he snapped at her, which fuelled [[Volcatia Volturcius]] who got extremely aggressive with him.

Things got incredibly serious and the two got into an immense fight, including [[Volcatia Volturcius]] pulling a gun on the Miqo'te man and him drawing his daggers on her. Shin got in between them and managed to calm [[Rorick Aster]] and he stepped down, walking off to a corner to let the women deal between each other. [[Volcatia Volturcius]] was livid and did not go easy on Shin to the point of threatening to hurt her as she believed someone as deceitful as [[Rorick Aster]] but among all the chaos, to prove her trust towards the woman, Shin confessed to her that she knew the woman was Garlean. Alas, that back-fired immediately and got the woman even more furious as fear set in and a need to eliminate Shin. That is when from the shadows [[Adham Hadad]] came in to save her but Shin refused to get him involved and stepped in between him and the woman. [[Volcatia Volturcius]] decided to let it slide for the time being and left them. As she did, Shin collapsed from the stress of the situation and lack of sleep only to wake up with her friends by her side and [[Sini'to Shadar]].

It appeared that things had settled down but one day as Shin was spending some quality time with [[Sini'to Shadar]], they got a surprise visit from [[Volcatia Volturcius]]. It was evident that things weren't looking good as the woman was acting rather peculiar and it was only confirmed as she questioned Shin. That day after she had threatened to kill Shin, it appeared that [[Adham Hadad]] had gathered an entire mob to go after the woman, and she came to Shin demanding to know who was responsible for the pursuit. Shin had no idea about all that but she knew very well who was at fault, but refused to give the name. [[Volcatia Volturcius]] kept pressing for a name and got physical but that is when [[Sini'to Shadar]] stepped in immediately and slammed a floor lamp into the woman's head, making her collapse. She, however, did not give up so easily and just lashed out even more. Terrified for her lover's life, Shin begged him to leave the room but he refused and only after insisting after a long time did he do it but was truly hurt by her words.

Once he was gone, the women exchanged some words before [[Volcatia Volturcius]] collapsed to the floor and Shin tended to the serious wound over her head from the lamp. As she did that, the two talked a bit more and Shin promised her that she´d never give away her secret, a thing that was hard to believe for the Garlean but she agreed. Shin then left the apartment to seek out [[Sini'to Shadar]] and reconciled with him immediately, confessing to him why she had asked him to leave the way she did, and why the topic was so delicate, revealing to him that the woman was Garlean. He obviously was not comfortable at all with the idea but he let the topic slide for the time being and he forgave her.

Shin finally returned from the Shroud after the funeral of her mother and in rather poor spirits, as she had left before the actual funeral. She went to Ul'dah to pick up some groceries and immediately got involved with two people she had met in the past that were after [[Volcatia Volturcius]]. Those being, a Miqo’te Keeper [[Ryan Cooper]] and a Doman Xaela [[Ayane Mayuzuma]]. She got confronted by both in a hostile manner with the Keeper man trying to assault her physically but she managed to escape. Making her way into the Quicksand, she met a Hyur man named [[Vyncent Fields]], and he seemed to know the Miqo’te whom had jumped her and he gladly agreed to confront him and so he accompanied Shin. Once confronting the Xaela and the Miqo’te, things became serious and both men ended up beating each other severely until finally a passerby stopped the fighting and they each went their separate ways but Shin took the Hyur back to her office to tend to his wounds, feeling like it was her responsibility. While tending to him, she learned that he was half Garlean and it rang the alarm bells for her. First [[Volcatia Volturcius]] and now that man. Her involvement with them was clear even to the point that the Doman Xaela even accused her of being Garlean herself.

Talking some more, shockingly, [[Sini'to Shadar]] came to visit her in her office while taking care of the Hyur and she learned that both men knew one another but she didn’t question. The Keeper exchanged a few words with his old friend and learned that Shin almost got assaulted, which rose questions. [[Vyncent Fields]], meanwhile, proposed to teach Shin how to wield a sword so next time she'd be prepared and decided to take her to Coerthas next time to train her a bit. Reluctant but having her partner's support and wanting herself to get better, she agreed. The Hyur then took his leave. Once alone with [[Sini'to Shadar]], he questioned her about the assault but she refused to give details, saying that she was exhausted after her trip and he obliged as they both went to rest but the next day he demanded explanations.

The following day, [[Sini'to Shadar]] decided to take Shin to resume her swimming lessons but they ran into [[Volcatia Volturcius]] who was also heading for a swim, which immediately made them suspicious. Shin immediately skipped the niceties and demanded a talk with her, to which the woman agreed and all three sat down to talk. Shin then admitted to her that she had confessed to [[Sini'to Shadar]] that she was Garlean and it immediately changed the mood, although [[Volcatia Volturcius]] appeared unmoved and kept up her cheery façade, even a bit too much. Some threats were thrown at the woman but she then left the couple be. Both Miqo’te confused but on guard, aware that trouble was on the horizon.

During a swimming lesson that [[Sini'to Shadar]] dragged Shin to, they got interrupted by a call from [[Vyncent Fields]] as he informed Shin that two of his friends needed her help immediately as they had suffered Void poisoning. The couple made their way back to the Goblet and met up with the Hyur who took them to the house of his Free Company where Shin reunited with [[Lofen Melocuil]] after so many years. The reunion wasn’t good at all as all she could do was send the man death stares which shocked him. Shin refused to cure the two patients after receiving a very bad audience from the entire Free Company and even [[Sini'to Shadar]] refused to assist them after such a greeting. They didn’t seem appreciative at all that she was doing it for free and they kept underlining that her arrogance was too much. She ignored their words and kept insisting that she is a medic, not a psychologist and that she is paid for the medical things, not for being nice to people. The leader of the Free Company was extremely rude and stuck up, which immediately made Shin and [[Sini'to Shadar]] want to leave, which they did. [[Vyncent Fields]] stood up for them which Shin appreciated greatly but she left the place and swore to never return. As she was about to exit, [[Lofen Melocuil]] stopped her and the two exchanged some heated words but Shin remained untouched and treated him as vermin before finally leaving with her partner.

After all the stressful events that had taken part during the short period, Shin decided to take life a bit slower and considered going to visit her brother [[Sehlo'sae Nelhah]] in Limsa Lominsa to have a small and much needed vacation but the plans never came to pass as she remained in the Goblet and simply tried to stay out of trouble which was easier said than done.
</spoiler>

'''The Calm After The Storm''' (27)

<spoiler>
[[Sini'to Shadar]] called Shin to come visit him at the Jackals Mansion in the Mists and she arrived there rather confused as he gave her no reason for the sudden summoning and it was out of the ordinary. He appeared to be in a great mood and it was revealed why as he took her to his room and made her the surprise of her life!
[[File:Shinandsinisurprise.png|500px|right]]
The room was filled with flowers and roses and in the very middle he had arranged a table for two to have a romantic dinner, together with candlesticks and more flowers. Shin was speechless but honestly, she was overjoyed and her smile and little affections were proof of that.
As the two started to eat, they talked, and just had a merry time as they caught up as lately due to their busy lives they had no time at all to be just alone and enjoy each others’ company. It’s during such moments that Shin would let her guard down and be much more caring and affectionate towards [[Sini'to Shadar]] and he was definitely happy to see that; glad to see that the surprise pleased her. After an evening of talking and just bonding even closer over the dinner, they later moved to sit before the fireplace together where their talks turned into juvenile teasing and games; with Shin being the immediate winner. Despite the immense button pushing, neither of them did truly mind, as it merely showed just how comfortable the two had grown. Pushing him even further over the edge, [[Sini'to Shadar]] couldn’t take it much longer. Her teasing him of being the worst priest ever and then also telling him to resist all sorts of temptations while tempting him at the very same time as she said that. Hypocrite to the core.
Finally after a bell of torturing the Keeper, they decided to turn in for the night but, not yet go to sleep as they spent the night together, indulging in their company. It felt like ages ever since they had time for each other and Shin was going to make the most of it, as that date was engraved in her memory forever as well as his sweet actions and words, with which he’d shower her every single day.
Never had she met such a man quite as [[Sini'to Shadar]] but she was glad she did, as she couldn’t imagine life without him at that point. She’d never admit that to him herself but she was well aware that he knew of her feelings and that was enough for her.

Assuming that everything was back to calm and no weird things would happen, Shin got in touch with a merchant in Ul'dah, who promised to provide her with some rare dragon scales for her still ongoing experiment which has been in process for over a year. She informed [[Sini'to Shadar]] who had come to visit her as always and he immediately decided to join her, and the two headed to Coerthas, specifically Dragonhead.
[[File:shinsinitobattle.png|500px|left]]
Once there, they did not find the merchant but were greeted by an Aevis that did appear to have found the man, although long killed by the creature. Enraged, Shin demanded her money back as well as the merchandise but [[Sini'to Shadar]] quickly could judge the situation and their chances of surviving an encounter with an Aevis was slim, so they both ran for cover to a nearby storage house. Inside, they quickly looked around for anything and found some grenades which [[Sini'to Shadar]] threw out the window and finally killed the beast. Shin immediately ran out but did not find her money, so she skinned the Aevis to make a profit on the scales. [[Sini'to Shadar]] then decided to just take her back home and have some much needed peace and quiet after the deadly event.

The next day, Shin brought him to the Golden Saucer, saying she’d show him the strings to gambling, which did not please him to much as he was a priest but he went along with it as he could never oppose her. In the large casino, they first went to the Crystal Tower Striker, where they tried their strength. Things went out of hand as [[Sini'to Shadar]] ended up hurting himself once, and on the other breaking another Crytal Tower Striker so they quickly moved to the Moogle Paw game. Shin then confessed that she had been after a plush toy ever since she had arrived to Thanalan, and it was inside the Moogle Paw game too, instead of being won with MGP solely. Wanting to please her, [[Sini'to Shadar]] gave the game a try and after the third one, he got the plush toy and gifted it to her. Returning home, she explained to him that she wanted the plush toy, which was a yellow chocobo, because back then she was homesick and desired to have something to remind her of home, and the plush toy was perfect as the Shroud was known to have wild chocobos as well as chocobo breeders. She then placed the chocobo upon her desk to accompany her whenever working and [[Sini'to Shadar]] appeared rather happy to see that side of her; and she was clearly warming up to him.
</spoiler>

'''New Commitments''' (28)

<spoiler>
Day after day, routine started to set in as well as boredom. It felt like stagnation; so Shin decided to accompany her partner [[Sini'to Shadar]] to Othard, as his family ran their merchant business from there. Packing up her stuff and making sure to lock her door well, leaving the keys to her closest friends in case of emergencies, she set out to Kugane together with him. The culture shock was immediate, feeling like an alien among all the Au Ra and Hyur, as well as feeling even smaller among all of them, which did not work well for her nerves. [[Sini'to Shadar]] purchased a property there and slowly started to set up his shop, Shin helping him as much as she could for once, as he was the only link and reason for her being there.

Despite being in Kugane very often, she still spent most of her time back in Ul'dah where she had setup her toxicology business, while [[Sini'to Shadar]] would often remain in Kugane to run his own family errands. The time apart didn’t bother her in the least at the beginning, but surely enough, gradually, it started to bug her and she decided to find a way for them to spend more time together. And that was when she came across a pamphlet advertising the [https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/freecompany/9228860798900647199/ Astral Crusaders].
Curious, she invited [[Sini'to Shadar]] to join her to check out the place, which was a sort of café but with a mercenary-like background. Based in the Goblet, it suit her perfectly as it was an area she was very familiar with due to her work and she easily located their establishment, where they were greeted by a fellow Moonkeeper named [[Ihrih Nhoyo]]. After some talk, she invited them in for a few drinks, and whilst talking, Shin decided to strike up a deal with the guild. She offered to provide them with her services in exchange for a place to establish her lab to experiment a more intensely than before. [[Sini'to Shadar]], obviously worried to death for her safety, immediately put himself forward and decided to join the guild also. After some further talks, a deal was made and the couple joined the Astral Crusaders. Shin as an apothecary and semi-medic, and [[Sini'to Shadar]] mostly there to make sure she stayed clear out of trouble, but also as an additional sword to the ranks as well as fulfilling his priestly duties. Wasting no time, Shin was extremely quick in setting up her lab. The first thing to appear was a warning sign at the entrance door “Enter at your own risk’. Despite joining a group of people, she still did not wish to be interrupted during work or bothered by the nuisances.

Taking some time off before fully dedicating their time to the cause, the couple went to the Bobbing Cork to relax. Relaxation did not last long as they ran into a young Ala Mhigan fellow named [[Leoden Garande]], with whom they ended up conversing only to discover that he had also joined the Astral Crusaders. He spoke of some mission he had requested assistance on, regarding voidsent. Shin immediately back up, not wanting to get involved in the supernatural, but she put up [[Sini'to Shadar]] as a potential help as it was his field of expertise. Knowing where they were, she decided to pay a visit to her good friend [[Meriell Bell]] who happened to work at the tavern where they were staying at. She explained to her in few short words the quest of the Ala Mhigan man and that he needed assistance. Being a people person, the girl instantly agreed. The quest most likely happened, but Shin knew nothing of the results which followed.
[[File:MinglingAC.png|500px|right]]
A few days passed and [[Sini'to Shadar]] signed up for some sort of tournament. Interested in earning some money, Shin immediately made a bet with [[Meriell Bell]], who also got hired in the company, that he'd win at least one fight. The day of the tournament came, hosted by [[Zaraa Malqir]] and there were four contestants in total; the first couple would fight, then the second, and the winners of each group would move to the final. Shin was hopeful the priest would get at least one win and even got carried away a couple times while cheering. He did win the first match against [[Leoden Garande]], but the final match he lost. A bit disappointed, but happy to earn some change, Shin instantly went to cash in her win from [[Meriell Bell]] who was distraught at loosing the money.

Days passed and one day when returning to the company from errands she ran into a group of people. Among them a man she had met prior named [[Leoden Garande]], [[Sini'to Shadar]] was there too, and a third man whom she had never met before, who was [[Thorir Ryder]], a Doman nobleman. They decided to go out to the center of the Goblet to participate in the festivities of the MoonFire Faire, as well as to observe the fireworks. She got to know the two other man better, although developing a certain hatred and deep doubt towards the Doman. His remarks and teasing nature was instantly getting on her nerves, making fun of her lack of swimming capabilities among other things. Her doubts ran much deeper than that as she was fully aware that [[Meriell Bell]] was infatuated with the man and dating him. She exchanged a couple heated words with the man but in the end, was quite pleased to see him stand beside her friend. Once he departed, she got to talk a bit more with [[Leoden Garande]] but the conversation was cut shot when a young Au Ra girl joined them out of the blue. Soft spoken, with some speech-impediment, the group had a hard time making out her words but from the little bit they understood, she also formed part of the Astral Crusaders. She also mentioned that she had been cursed and was going to die in four weeks. Alarmed and actually worried for the girl, Shin and [[Sini'to Shadar]] decided to research the possibilities, despite the girl immediately calling Shin a mean and bad person.

Shin pulled another all nighter, only to be awoken the next morning by [[Sini'to Shadar]]. She had searched her entire list of contacts but her policy of 'no questions asked' backfired, as no contacts appreciated such requests from her, the relationships being strictly business oriented. Depressed and exhausted, [[Sini'to Shadar]] proposed they get some food, upon which she agreed but decided to take him to the Doman enclave where they could feast as much as they wanted on the food stalls there. They got a box of buns and a couple sweet treats before moving to a more secluded spot in the enclave, finding their exotic gardens to be the perfect location. Sitting there, they talked about the days that had come and gone, as well as the quests [[Sini'to Shadar]] had been on with [[Meriell Bell]] a few days prior. Among other things, Shin mentioned the incident with the Au Ra girl who had just outright said that she was mean the moment she saw her. It had affected her and opened her eyes a bit as to how the world perceived her, asking his opinion on the matter. He confirmed that she was brash and had a temper but that his feelings towards her would never change. While it brought her joy, it did not solve her doubts about herself when it came to other people. The evening continued as they shared it together, returning later to the Goblet to settle for the evening.
[[File:Shinimarriage.png|600px|left]]
Days passed and Shin would go about her duties, searching for contacts but still finding none. Reaching her limits, she had to get away from her desk. Before meeting [[Sini'to Shadar]] outside, she ran into a bickering [[Leoden Garande]] with [[Thorir Ryder]]. She had no desire to listen to them so she went outside to meet her partner. While there, then ran into [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] who would suddenly refer to Shin as 'kin', a term she despised as it made her feel inferior. She hated tribal life and did not enjoy to be associated with such. Despite telling the woman to use names, this one didn't; so Shin returned inside. That was when [[Sini'to Shadar]] proposed to go out on a picnic. As he prepared the basket, she actually came up with the perfect spot and took him to Summerford Farms, where they had spent their first outing together over two years back. Only once there did he immediately remember the area, making him quite happy. They settle in the same spot from all that time ago, starting to chat about the recent changes in the Astral Crusaders as well as making sure that both of them were happy. Talking, Shin mentioned the engagement of [[Meriell Bell]] to [[Thorir Ryder]], surprising the priest as he was aware they had only recently met. He then got down on one knee before Shin and asked for her hand in marriage, giving her a diamond ring. She was left absolutely speechless, unable to reply as she turned away from him and burst into tears of joy for the first time in her life. She had never felt such joy in her life, nor had she expected it after so many failures in the past; but finally she found her place beside him. She agreed instantly, and the two shared an embrace before throwing sarcastic remarks at each other regarding how they'd call themselves or even act, or even about the wedding ceremony itself. The ring however was set aside as she refused to reveal her bruised up hands to him and he respected her decision. Among the talk, there was the mention of children. The priest expressed interest in having some in the future but Shin made him aware that with her body she was unable due to her poison experiments, she had damaged her possibility to reproduce. While possible, the chances were marginal. He accepted her regardless. He already would mention planning the wedding, something that she wasn't used to at all, definitely not her field of expertise so she decided to leave it to him, but offered her help if required.

Next day, she ran into [[Leoden Garande]] in the hallways as she was inspecting the plants within the establishment. The two exchanged a few words, mostly regarding [[Meriell Bell]] and he invited Shin to his room where he had been working on some garments for the girl. Intrigued, she followed. Once inside, she did express some interest in his hobbies, including complimenting him on being a self made man. The conversation took a turn as they touched the topic of [[Meriell Bell]] once more; Shin demanding to know what was his standing with the girl. He remained honest to her, stating that while they were aware of the feelings they harbored for each other, they wouldn't act upon them. Pleased, she let him off the hook for the time being, noting that he was an honest man who wouldn't hurt her friend, who she deemed was an airhead; thus, she feared for her well-being. They got interrupted as [[Lynn Shiri]] came to visit the man and Shin decided to leave them be, returning to her lab to continue working.

Days passed and Shin was back to her usual routine, still researching ways of curing [[Sho Ishiku]] but still found nothing. Infuriated, she left her lab and ran into an unknown Au Ra man, whom she later learned to be named [[Jochi Ejinn]]. He was some sort of water shaman from his tribe, and apparently is travels had brought him to the Respite. Intrigued by the odd newcomer, she gladly indulged in conversation. That is when [[Sho Ishiku]] appeared together with [[Rumia Scarlet]] and the three then spoke in their own dialect among them, so Shin just studied the man from a distance. [[Rumia Scarlet]] then got interrupted by her linkshell and requested Shin were to find a room for the man. Livid but agreeing with the higher ranking woman, she told the man to come find her in her lab later on to assist him once he was done conversing with [[Sho Ishiku]]. As agreed, he did come but together with the Au Ra woman which didn’t sit well with Shin but she let is slide. While [[Sho Ishiku]] would go about her pleas for help despite it not being the time for it, [[Jochi Ejinn]] took notice of all the machinery and it terrified him, as he turned to Shin and accused her of being Garlean. With the language barrier, things got tense but she managed to calm the situation and convinced him that she wasn’t Garlean. However, that was when something in [[Sho Ishiku]] turned and she started to accuse the man of being Garlean himself. Shin would just groan in annoyance at the sheer stupidity of the matter but she was smart enough not to stand in between them as they would go about exchanging words in their own language. It was evident it was heated and the tension just continued building up as the two were about to clash, but then the girl slammed her boot to their feet, demanding assistance. Shin couldn’t comprehend the ridiculous switches and it drove her up the wall in fury. Wanting to get rid of her, she assisted. The shaman walked up to the fish tank in her lab and started to converse with the spirits, after which he then requested Shin to add new pages to [[Sho Ishiku]] ’s book. She immediately caught on and sat down to include more pages, the tome quickly gaining weight and volume. Overnight, she completed the task and handed it to the man as he would start to cast some magic spell upon the girl. Shin remained quiet, and at a certain distance as she was never comfortable with the idea of aether. After the ritual was completed, [[Sho Ishiku]] got her colour back and seemed to be reborn almost, sitting up and having much more personality in her. Alas, too much. The moment she looked at Shin, she immediately would try to coerce her into bed, a thing which Shin despised as she was betrothed already and absolutely not remotely interested in women or anyone else for that matter. [[Jochi Ejinn]] immediately walked out as he had no desire to see any of it. Shin refused, immediately regretting to have even wasted her time and so many sleepless nights for the girl. [[Sho Ishiku]] then switched completely as she would threaten Shin to blow her sky high together with her lab. It hit Shin hard and she immediately walked away from her, but then the woman hugged her tightly, giggling and happy as she thanked her for the help and ran outside. Ever since Shin started to lock her lab, no longer happy with just a one-sided door solution. She wanted nothing to do with the woman and stayed at a safe distance constantly, ideally not even seeing her at all.

For research purposes, Shin returned to her home in the Lavender Beds and [[Sini’to Shadar]] visited her one day, appearing in culinarian garbs. He seemed to be very happy and he showed off his new found interest but Shin brushed him off completely. It hurt the priest and he gently tried to tell her that she should perhaps consider a it more other peoples’ feelings, which made her remember the talk they had at the MoonFire Faire about her behaviour. It then reached her just how much she had been ignoring her partner and that if she would continue, things would crumble between them. She loved him far too much to just keep up her attitude and so she told him she would try to tone it down for their sake. It pleased him greatly to see her at least try. Shin then opened up to him about her issues with [[Sho Ishiku]] back at the Respite and he agreed that it was best to stay away from the woman. Infuriated, Shin gave him her laboratory key, stating that she had been working hard for weeks for her sake and yet it only made things worse. Exhausted, she asked him if they could maybe take a break and go somewhere. [[Sini’to Shadar]] seemed quite happy with the idea and they decided to head to Ishgard where he had studied priesthood in the past. Shin then remembered that she had been there before and that her experience wasn’t the best as she got kicked out due to some indecent behaviour towards their clergy. Regardless, she did want to go.

Some time passed and Shin ran into [[Meriell Bell]] in the hallways back at the Respite, the girl clearly in high spirits. Suspicious but having a good hunch, she made her way downstairs to the restaurant area where she spotted [[Leoden Garande]]. Intent to talk to him, she started to make her way towards him but then spotted [[Sho Ishiku]] by the bar. She made a huge circle around the girl avoiding her, to which the girl seemed to nor comprehend. Reaching her destination, Shin would engage with the Highlander in conversation but he then requested for a more private area to talk in. She didn't mind and gestured him to follow. [[Sho Ishiku]] then interrupted them demanding to know why they deemed their current spot not private enough. Shin refused to engage the girl as the privacy was non existent and made her way back to her laboratory with [[Leoden Garande]], at the door remembering that she had given away her key to [[Sini'to Shadar]]. Luckily the Hyur didn't mind and took her to his room where they sat down and talked. Shin was no fool and immediately called the man out on him being the reason for [[Meriell Bell]] 's merry mood. He did not hide it from her and opened up about what had happened as well as what was going on in their minds, hearts alike. Shin listened, feeling as if it were staring into a mirror, a flashback to her own foolishness of when she was young. She felt for them deeply and offered some support, including the promise to keep their affections to one another secret. She then left the man alone and returned to her daily duties.
[[File:Snowballfight.png|500px|right]]
The next day, she appeared back at the Respite with green hair and tail. [[Sini’to Shadar]] had a hard time holding back his laughter. She was livid and would shut everyone up without exceptions, him included. It was also then that she met [[Kathir Ragewind]], a Hrothgar who formed part of the Astral Crusaders also. The man seemed kind but with his talking, it was evident he was trying to crush her protective walls and she did not appreciate it at all, snapping at the man viciously. Then [[Jochi Ejinn]] reappeared after the incident a few days back and he proposed that he could fix her hair. While he worked on her, she confessed that she had tried to dye her hairs black to disguise herself a bit, however, the dye turned all her hairs green instead of black. After some disgusting methods used by the shaman, all her hairs did become raven black and she wasn’t ashamed anymore to at least show herself. [[Sini’to Shadar]] and Shin ventured to Coerthas Central Highlands, staying at Camp Dragonhead as they ventured south of the area first. Shin had brought a map with herself and wanted to explore the surroundings of Ishgard better before heading into the city. Despite haven been there before, she never took her time to inspect the area. They arrived to the First Dicasterial Observatorium of Aetherial and Astrological Phenomena, and [[Sini’to Shadar]] proposed that they climb the tower to have a good view of Coerthas, but she immediately rejected as she was terrified of heights. Amused, but understanding, he agreed and they started to head West. Shin then spotted a cave on her map and expressed her interest in inspecting it. For that, they had to cross a river and it did not sit with her well at all. The stream was freezing and the current strong; she’d walk along the shore trying to figure out how to cross. [[Sini’to Shadar]] then found a log stuck in the rocks and he climbed onto it, carrying her in his arms as he got them across despite her immense fears. Once they made it to solid ground, she took a moment to regain her cool before venturing on. Shin appeared to enjoy the snow and as her partner walked on first, she’d try to match her footprints to his, needing to hop a bit to reach them as she was much smaller. He noticed this and in revenge she hurled a snowball into his face. The silliest of fights erupted as the two laughed, throwing snowballs at each other while running among the trees and bushes. Elated, Shin was victorious and she celebrated that by tackling him to the cold snow, sitting herself over him so he wouldn’t be able to move. Laughing, he easily threw her off and had her head a face full of snow in revenge. While vexed, she did enjoy the small distraction as they had fun. They passed the Monument Tower and then headed South again and reached the cave she had been interested in, The Fury’s Gaze. Inside was a beautiful spectacle of crystals and icicles, stalactites hanging from the high ceilings like mirrors. The two of them examined the crystals and the cave in great detail, as Shin’s inquisitive nature kicked in hard and would block out everything else. With great effort, [[Sini’to Shadar]] managed to break off a small piece of a crystal and gave it to Shin as she tucked it away, intent on studying it further. They returned to Camp Dragonhead for the night and the next day headed for Ishgard. The two finally made it to Ishgard the next day, frozen to the bone and deciding to take shelter at the Forgotten Knight inn. All too familiar place as Shin recalled her visit to [[Seseli Seli]] when the Lalafell had been hired by some noble family for her weave work. The couple settled by the fire as [[Sini’to Shadar]] ordered them some soup and hot wine. Shin almost hugged herself to the fireplace as she despised the cold, and meanwhile the two engaged in conversation as she learned a bit more about her fiancée’s past and his time spent in Ishgard. It made her aware just how little she actually knew about it, and it didn’t sit well with her. It made her feel guilty and unfair towards the man, as if she was ignorant of him completely. Shin did all she could and put great effort to change her ways when it came to [[Sini’to Shadar]] and over the past few days he saw a lot of improvement, and it meant a lot to him.

They teleported back to the Respite as a mission was to be taken into account and wanting to prove herself, Shin decided to join for once. [[Sini'to Shadar]] was there with her, having embraced anew his Dark Knight soulstone, earning lots of teases from Shin as she'd often knock on his helmet or lift his skirt. As they prepped and awaited upstairs, she spotted [[Leoden Garande]] also geared up and waved them over. He seemed to be a bit elsewhere with his thoughts and she asked him about it. He commented that lately he had issues with a fellow member of the Respite and Shin asked who it was, although her partner had a hunch. As if on queue, [[Sho Ishiku]] appeared and Shin immediately backed up, hissing at the woman; and to everyone's surprise, so did [[Leoden Garande]]. The woman appeared confused but Shin immediately rejected participating in the mission if she was to come, stating that she was dangerous and a threat to everyone. The Au Ra denied all allegations, playing the dummy when [[Leoden Garande]] added his words. Everyone's jaws hit the floor as his accusations were serious; the Au Ra having made life threatening comments to him just like to Shin. The Hyur did not hold back any punches and neither did Shin, both livid and soon a crowd gathered around. [[Sini'to Shadar]] made sure to keep his eyes on his partner, aware that she could explode at any moment. [[Sho Ishiku]] would attempt to defend herself but whatever words she had were easily beaten as well as all her lies exposed in front of everyone. Even the kind [[Kathir Ragewind]] got involved as he made sure to stand between the two fighting parties to make sure neither of them would get hurt. [[Leoden Garande]] exposed the Au Ra's threats to steal his lifeforce as well as her misconduct and unethical approach to fellow members, including sexual advances; which included revealing her chest to men. She denied all of this but the Hrothgar was quick to confirm these acts as he was victim to one attempt. Shin lost it and [[Sini'to Shadar]] intervened to keep her calm. She would proceed to scream out her own reasons for detesting the woman and fearing, explaining that she had her life threatened by her, and also the fact that the woman almost had attacked [[Jochi Ejinn]]. The higher ups, among them [[Zaraa Malquir]] intervened and she questioned [[Sho Ishiku]] and very quickly the walls crumbled. Both [[Leoden Garande]] and Shin expressed their intentions to leave the Respite should nothing be done about removing the threat. The mission was put off for another time while the seniors gathered to discuss the matter in private. [[Sho Ishiku]] left and the other scattered about. Shin engaged in brief conversation with [[Sini'to Shadar]], [[Leoden Garande]] and [[Kathir Ragewind]] before leaving them to take a much needed walk to cool herself down.

Morning came and the two visited the markets at the Jeweled Crozier. Shin immediately approached an apothecary's stand and after some banter and annoyance, she purchased quite the sum, adamant to carry it herself if need be as she was most interested in the items. [[Sini'to Shadar]] merely laughed as he found it endearing to see her in her natural habitat. The two walked around until they arrived at Saint Reymanaud's Cathedral, where he had studied in the past. Shin made certain to keep her mouth shut, not wanting to anger anyone and get kicked out yet again. She remained respectful of the place and after her partner's prayers, they left and headed towards the Tribunal. There, they talked about how illegal her business was and quickly left the area, aware that the conversation might have been overheard. In the courtyards, a conversation about morality and values began and it was evident the two of them had very different perspectives; [[Sini'to Shadar]] being a very good and giving person, wanting to give back to the world whatever he had; while Shin uncaring and believing that survival of the fittest was supreme. Despite their differences they shared a tender moment and retreated for the evening to rest.
</spoiler>

'''Bonding''' (28-Current)

<spoiler>
Upon their return to the Respite, there were no novelties until one day Shin came upon [[Kathir Ragewind]] and the two exchanged a few pleasantries despite still not being fully convinced towards the man. He expressed great interest in learning alchemy and the applications herbal medicine, which did pique her interest. As they continued talking, [[Leoden Garande]] came upon them, clearly dressed in a Flames uniform. They all teased him about it a bit when also [[Sini'to Shadar]] joined them. The Highlander looked to the priest and requested to speak with him privately and so the two men left them. It was a bit odd to see them talk, as while they weren't enemies, they weren't particularly friends either. She didn't put much thought in it and she herself also retired to her lab to work. Turning her attention back to the Hrothgar, she informed him that she would not mind helping him learn and he was quite happy to hear and receive such offer from her. They agreed to venture out into Thanalan to collect the plant life as well as teach him and show him the ins and outs of the profession. While a bit disappointing that he was more interested in the medical applications and not the poisons, she did agree and she refreshed her mind later on that evenings over some books.

The next day, [[Leoden Garande]] ran into her in the hallways and amidst their talk, he admitted to not fully understanding what her profession was and so she took him back to her lab to show it to him. She then explained in detail what she specialized in, which were poisons and toxins mostly; but also poultices, medicines, gasses and other concoctions. She took notice that he seemed to want to talk about something so she urge him to spit it out, even gently hinting at his conversation with [[Sini'to Shadar]] the day before. He was amazed at her deduction skills and he pleaded her not to tell [[Meriell Bell]] anything. Shin found it quite endearing as she saw his dedication to the woman and she reassured him that she would say nothing. He was relieved to hear it and he asked her if she could somehow get the ring size from the woman and she agreed. As they talked, he expressed the need to make the entire proposal special, wanting to also himself create the ring for her and he required inspirations and details. To explain how special he wanted it to be, he showed her the rose he got from [[Meriell Bell]], the flower dried up and extremely delicate and Shin offered to take the rose from him and make certain that it would stop decaying. He agreed and offered her the rose. She put herself to immediate work, reassuring him that she would assist him should he ever need help. Among the talking, he did see her engagement ring and he congratulated her. It surprised her and caught her out of nowhere but she thanked him as he left.
[[File:Teachingkathir.png|500px|right]]
Shin met up with [[Kathir Ragewind]] the following day and as promised, she took him to Camp Drybone where they made their way into it's plains to collect samples. At each plant, Shin would stop and explain to him in detail the names as well as the specific applications of these plants and he seemed to take it seriously, which pleased her. While the land appeared desolate and arid, it was rich in fauna and wildlife and she found plenty of specimens to pressed to the Hrothgar, tucking away each one into a leather bag. Their talks were friendly and even personal as they talked about their family life and their point of views. She would very gradually warm up to him and talk more openly while they collected more plants. As evening fell, they returned to the Respite and called it a day as they went for a drink or two. Shin would casually tell him that she enjoyed the talk and he truly took it to heart.

[[Meriell Bell]] visited her one evening, informing her that they had returned from a mission to Camp Drybone, adding that [[Sini'to Shadar]] was there with them. Absolutely infuriated, she stormed her way downstairs, stomping and slamming doors until she reached the restaurant area, meeting [[Leoden Garande]], [[Kathir Ragewind]] and [[Ren Kazumi]] but no sight of the priest. The Hrothgar then pointed to the kitchen for her and she entered it, immediately spotting [[Sini'to Shadar]] standing in a corner. When he saw her, he snatched a frying pan in self defense. She slapped it away immediately, starting to stab him with her finger repeatedly as she raged and lectured him almost like a mother. She then learned that [[Meriell Bell]] shot at his head twice, luckily he had a helmet, and it made him disoriented. However, her concerns for the girl suddenly took priority, as she started to argue why they took a child to a dangerous mission. That is when [[Leoden Garande]] stepped in, assuring her that no harm came to the woman but she still wouldn't take it and told him off. As she continued to vent, eventually she cooled down and apologized to [[Sini'to Shadar]], confessing that she was merely worried sick for him and that next time she won't let him go without her. It made him smile and he hugged her and would gently usher her back to her lab before she'd start another discussion with the others. She did, but he succeeded in distracting her long enough to detach her from the talks.
</spoiler>

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#8ac989">'''Gallery'''</div>===

<gallery>
Shinwithsinito.png|Shin & Sini'to
Herbology.png|Herbology
Shinatdesk.png|Caught sleeping at the desk again
Shinandleo.png|Shin confronts Leoden about Meriell
sinitocooking.png|Sini'to's Newly Found Passion: Cooking
Thefurysgaze.png|The Fury's Gaze
Apothecarypurchase.png|Ishgardian Shopping
respitemeeting.png|Respite Meet-Up
Marriagecounseling.png|Giving Leoden Marriage Advice
couplefight.png|Lecturing Sini'to
</gallery>

[[Category:Character]] [[Category:Player Character]] [[Category:Miqo'te]] [[Category:Gridanian]] [[Category:Miqo'te Keeper of the Moon]] [[Category:Character Stub]]

Bernadette Bearclaw

2020-03-10T09:12:01Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Tendencies */

Bernadette Bearclaw

2020-03-10T09:09:59Z

Shin Nelhah: /* General */

Bernadette Bearclaw

2020-03-10T09:09:30Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Personality */

2020-02-11T19:30:47Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Gallery */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Meriell Bell
| image = Meriellprofile.png
| imagewidth = 340
| caption = "Can't escape the ticking of time... so live each day to its fullest!"
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Limsa Lominsa
| race = [[:Category:Hyur|Hyur]]
| clan = [[:Category:Midlander_Hyur|Midlander]]
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 19
| stat_2 = Nicknames
| stat_2_value = Mell, Merry Mell Bell
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Waitress / Entertainer
| stat_4 = Guardian Deity
| stat_4_value = [[Nophica, the Matron]]
| stat_5 = Marital Status
| stat_5_value = Single
| stat_6 =
| stat_6_value =
}}
<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">'''About The Player'''</div>
* '''Time Zone:''' CET - Poland
* '''Nationality:''' Canadian-Polish
* '''Server:''' Omega
* '''FC''': None
* '''Lodestone:''' [https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/14302654/ Meriell Bell]
* '''Additional Characters:''' [[Shin Nelhah]], [[Rinako Ura]], [[Black Forest]], [[Rorosa Rosa]], [[Odette Veaureaux]], [[Zetoh'a Velshado]], [[Bernadette Bearclaw]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">General</div>===

'''Meriell Bell''', usually going simply as '''Mell''', is a Lominsan barmaid, ex-Maelstrom, mostly known for her larger than life personality.

After leaving the Maelstrom, she started her career as a barmaid at the Bismarck back in Limsa Lominsa; which later got her to work in Thanalan and later on even in the Mists; her loving and outgoing personality being selling point for such a profession. Very likable and having a gift to interact with customers, she got employed at Club Lustre as the head waitress and chatelaine, in charge or organizing events and social gatherings. Due to some unfortunate events, she left the Club and after some time alone, she joined the Astral Crusaders as a waitress, and as an adventurer; seeing it as an opportunity to brush-up on her fighting skills as well as get back to her beloved customers.

Cheery and kind to everyone, she is the life of any party or gathering, genuinely wanting to make sure that everyone has a good time and that no one gets ignored or bored. Due to her hyperactivity, it’s not uncommon to see her switching topics at random, or even getting herself lost and confused by her own speed. Her mouth is definitely faster than her brain which often got her in trouble, despite the good intentions behind her words.

A simple lass, who takes pleasure in the small things in life. She is very easy to befriend and she would never turn anyone down or a good conversation.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Personality</div>===
The first thing anyone can notice immediately, and say to best describe Meriell, is her personality.

Limitless energy, hyper-active and always on the go; accompanied by a winning smile and a very cheerful demeanor, it is not possible to hate the girl. By default she is a very happy person and an optimist, which she easily infects her friends with.

Cheery and out-going, she has an easy time befriending anyone that crosses her path, unless they simply refuse to be friends with her. To her, everyone is a friend and an ally, and she’d never turned anyone down. Very quick to trust however, she often gets into trouble for placing her faith in certain individuals but it never put her off or made her learn her lesson; she still continues talking to strangers despite getting burnt in the past.

She is a very energetic girl who appears to never run out of fuel and will be all over the place at the same time. She enjoys talking and meeting new people, and her open personality allows her that easily. Learning about the different races, or even culture is one of her biggest hobbies so she feels naturally drawn to foreigners or even peculiar looking individuals; and she has no shame to approach them on the street with her questions. A big fan of fun and games, she can be often seen playing in the company’s front yard, or doing other outdoor activities.

Due to her age, she is perhaps seen as naïve, but there is more than meets the eye. She is definitely not thoughtless and can understand if she is being used or manipulated. The benefit of being such a friendly person, means that she is capable of extracting information from people easily without them even noticing. They often don’t see her as a threat or anyone of great matter that can cause harm. Her smile and cheery nature seem to easily fool many.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Appearance</div>===
[[File:cheerymell.png|520px|right|]]
One of Meriell's biggest traits which is immediately noticeable at first glance, is her award winning smile.

Meriell is quite tall for her kind, standing at a full 170cm. She is of a slender build and a lean figure with a strong physique. Despite her very feminine and girly looks, she is very sturdy and physically capable; all coming from her upbringing as well as her years in the Maelstrom, as well as her love for all sorts of outdoor activities. Being a very active person, it made her extremely agile and limber, despite her love for sweeties. Meriell always walks with a light air about her, a cheerful smile always on her face and appearing to be accepting of everyone around her as well as inviting with her warm demeanor

She has thick, light brown, shoulder-length hair in a convenient small bob, which wraps at her cheeks, giving her a slightly more juvenile look. Soft and bright big blue sapphire eyes, always with a glint of excitement and wonder in them. She has a very gently sun-kissed complexion thanks to working outdoors for extended periods of time. On her chin, she sports a small beauty mark. However, she isn’t one for makeup and wears absolutely none of it unless it is required due to work as a waitress or while on stage.

For clothing, she enjoys bright and warm colours, going from sunny oranges to deep reds and even vibrant pinks. Not shy to show skin but still rather modest with her attire, she'd often wears skirts or even dresses when the weather allowed it. However, for personal convenience and considering how hyperactive she is, she prefers trousers. She does enjoy jewelry and other accessories and often wears earrings or some pendants just to adorn her plain clothes and add more flare to them. In her hair, she quite often wears big bows or even flowers. An enthusiast of foreign cultures, it is not uncommon to see her wearings garments from the Far East.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Occupation</div>===

Many years ago, she formed part of the Maelstrom but it was for a very brief moment of her life, despite being groomed for it since birth. Her tasks were mainly assisting with stopping petty crimes and also taking care of refugees. Her soft spot were for the suffering children, and despite helping them, she wasn’t able to handle the pain well.
Behind her family's back, Meriell worked part-time at the Bismarck back in Limsa Lominsa for a few years as a waitress and wannabe cook, very often observing the cooks in the kitchen and offering help whenever they were short on staff. She was very helpful and always available to come in whenever help was needed. It was a job that brought her happiness and satisfaction, unlike the Maelstrom. Thus, she decided to leave the Maelstrom and lead a very simple life, continuing her career as a waitress at the Bismarck.

Truly liked by other employees and customers, she was the apple in the eye for many and even became the reason for many returning customers. Despite her popularity, she was moved to Thanalan to the Coffer & Coffin tavern by her employer, saying that it was for her to gain more experience in a more unfriendly environment; the entire goal to harden her a bit. Things did not go too smoothly and with some help from new friends, she traveled to the Shroud where she found work at The Bobbing Cork. She settled there for a long period, her reputation always surpassing her.

Every now and then she started hosting some small events to gather more potential customers. She’d often organize small dances or even more grand spectacles, and very often she’d be the entertainer for the evening. An accomplished dancer and acrobat, she developed a new hobby while dancing on stage and she still managed perfectly the balance between being a waitress and entertainer.
With such a good reputation, she was offered a job at Club Lustre, which was an exclusive club for the higher classes in Limsa Lominsa; meant to please the most demanding, with great food and entertainment as well as offer an amazing environment to socialize. She was the first waitress to join and quickly became a star employee, getting promoted instantly to head waitress and chatelaine of the establishment. The tasks were harder and much more demanding, but it seemed the harder they were, the more joy it brought her. She was tasked with overseeing the entire staff as well as organizing grand events on a weekly basis. She would still perform for the guests on rare occasions, but her main focus was to assist the other employees as well as the owner.

After multiple changes, she is currently debating where to end up professionally however, slowly her inclination is moving towards children and opening a daycare. Wanting and needing to earn money to support herself, waitressing would not bring her the needed support. Upon further consideration, she noticed that few people had even considered opening a kindergarten in the area and she saw it as a good opportunity. Adoring children she would slowly work towards that goal.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Combat</div>===
[[File:Meriellbow.png|600px|left|]]
The Hyur, at first sight, might not appear to be a fighter, but having a good look at her, she definitely appears to be able to handle her own in a fight. Powerful legs and strong arms, she could definitely pack up a punch and she wouldn’t hesitate to get aggressive if required, especially if it meant helping her loved ones.
Being born in a family fully dedicated to the Maelstrom, she was groomed from birth to join their ranks, as her older sister and father already had. Day in and day out she'd be training sword-fighting, bowman skills as well as her condition and physique.

Finally, having serve in the Maelstrom for little over a year, she became a really skilled bow-woman and also very good at hand-to-hand combat. A good eye and stable arms, she is able to take down enemies standing far away with a single arrow if taken the time to prepare. She can wield a sword but she finds it barbaric and an easy way to get hurt. Another reason for it, is she does not want to have any eye contact with the enemies while in combat as it always fills her with guilt. Thus, the bow will always triumph over all other weapons, which is her most treasured possession to this day.
If she cannot attack from a long distance and needs to be involved heads on, she will resort to using her own fists and kicks to fend off enemies. She is a very good acrobat, able to climb walls, trees, crawl through tight ducts with ease, or even cliff-sides. She does not mind getting her hands dirty and will gladly to the manual labour in any missions if necessary. She is more of a physical person than magic-oriented, and it is still unclear and unknown if she can use magic in big extents.

Due to her ex, [[Thorir Ryder]], she had taken up sword-fighting, and just like him, choosing a katana as the blade. At his behest, she started training every single day to get better, wanting to impress him as well as to get better herself. Always being one for long-ranged combat, she saw it as a benefit to learn close combat, wanting to be more useful to the company as well as to her loved ones, able to protect them when the day would come. However, with him leaving the Respite, she turned her attention towards [[Kathir Ragewind]], knowing that he would gladly continue her teachings.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Tendencies</div>===
'''Likes'''
::* Vibrant colours
::* Girly accessories
::* Mother nature
::* Spicy and fragrant foods that can stink up a room
::* Anything of foreign origin

'''Dislikes'''
::* Filthy places or establishments
::* Big, crowded cities
::* Stiff and rude people

'''Hobbies'''
::* All outdoor activities
::* Dancing the evening away
::* Loves cooking meals for family and friends
::* Puzzles. She adores the challenge of arranging the small pieces and it keeps her busy for hours
::* Everything and anything Doman

'''Skills'''
::* A good singer and dancer; an accomplished entertainer all around. She'd often provide entertainment for others
::* Easily makes friends with her bubbly nature
::* Well developed athletically with amazing endurance and stamina

<div style="border:0px solid; padding:8px;"><b>
<div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #90AB76;">◢ Common Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is well adored by many, and it is easy to see why! She is so lovely!"
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is obsessed with Doman culture to the point of even sometimes dressing like one of them"
<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #F37E1D;">◢ Uncommon Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#F37E1D;" size="3">■</font> "I heard she was a waitress at Club Lustre... is that truly the only thing she did there?"
<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #D83018;">◢ Rare Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#D83018;" size="3">■</font> "Her cheery nature is almost eerie... Is it even real?"
<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #aac5b4;">◢ PC Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "We only just met... I didn't want to become attached, but I just couldn't help it around her. Her positive attitude is so contagious!" - [[Ririan Ruruan]]
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "A naive girl, but she is good at heart, and I feel like it is my duty to make sure she doesn't do anything stupid" - [[Shin Nelhah]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Relationships</div>===

<center><font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Family    <font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> Love    <font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> Platonic    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Failed     <font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> Good    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> Neutral    <font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> Poor    </center>

'''Family'''

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Wilfram Bell (45 / deceased)
Meriell's father, a head-strong man with a powerful authority but loving heart, however driven by career. A very loving father and he was dedicated to his family above all else, but at some point once his children grew up, he deviated and wanted them to bring honour to the family above all else. Meriell always admired her father and he was a good friend to her, and she'd often find comfort in his words and look up to him, wanting to be just like him. But ever since she left the Maelstrom, there has been no contact, as he was let down by her departure.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Hilda Bell (43)
The mother to the children, a very caring woman who was a house-wife. Meriell was very close with her but she always was a daddy's girl above all else. Her mother would try to make Meriell more of a woman by forcing her into dresses and high-heeled shoes but it never worked for the little spunky lass who just lived out her tomboy life-style.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Agnes Bell (27)
The eldest of all three siblings, Agnes always had to hold her head high as the eldest. Meriell and Agnes got along just fine. They fought a lot like all siblings but they were always very close and there to help each other out. Agnes was the more feminine between the two of them, while Meriell was the one to get her constantly into trouble. Despite the years, the two remain close and write to each other often.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Randal Bell (18)
Youngest of all three, Randal was the odd ball that never fit in. Artistic soul, he'd often stay at home painting and making sculptures instead of being out with his older sisters. Meriell, however, adored his art and was the only one to compliment him, which in the end was his fuel to keep going and finally leave the nest in search of his own passions.

'''Love Interests'''

NONE

'''Friends'''

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Madam Vonne]] (51)
The owner of Club Lustre. A Highlander woman with a high air that Meriell ran into by chance in the Quicksand and got offered a job at Club Lustre where she was the owner. The woman inspired Meriell greatly with her noble-like air, and she immediately agreed to the offer and joined the staff to become a trusted employee of hers. Meriell respects Madam Vonne immensely and sees her as an icon, as her idol, and will do anything to please her. The woman almost became a motherly figure to the Midlander and she follows whatever guidance and advice she is given. The two really grew close during Meriell's employment and after some time, Madam Vonne would open up more and more to her, even to the point of confessing that she wanted to keep her around for much longer than only the duration of the Club Lustre, and Meriell agreed.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Helga Mistwalker]] (30?)
[[Leoden Garande]]'s tutor, the Highlander woman met Mrriell indirectly through him as she assisted her with her issues regarding [[Thorir Ryder]], informing her of the man's past stories with other women including herself. Meriell truly appreciated her help and honest, and would often confide in her, seeing her as a second mother as the two grew close. Helga did indeed become a mother to her very quickly and the two were inseparable, often found in each other's company, helping each other out.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Koji Ichihara]] (26)
Midlander just like Meriell, but hailing from Doma. The two met in Ul'dah under quite normal circumstances however, it was him opening up to her about his worries and his past that brought them closely together; her being the one to cheer him up with her merry mood and kind words. He appeared to appreciate her and over time, she quickly got to call him 'nii-san' as he taught her a bit about his culture, and she always wanted to know more about it, genuinely interested. Their relationships is like brother and sister, both supporting each other in times of need. He was the one who got her interested in Doman culture almost to an obsession.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Shin Nelhah]] (28)
A chance encounter at the Bobbing Cork in the North Shroud, and despite very different personalities, the two ladies actually got talking as Meriell was the waitress at the establishment. Seeing the Miqo'te there almost on a daily basis, got her wanting to get to know her whether the guest liked it or not. A bit of a forced friendship, Shin got to enjoy the girl's company, but would never admit that fact. The relationship over time became almost like that of a mother and daughter, with the Miqo'te looking after her.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Kathir Ragewind]] (200?)
Returning Hrothgar to the Respite after a long trip to the East. He returned on the eve of the Maid Event and he saved Meriell from running the entire restaurant and bar area. She approached him the next day to properly introduce herself and she learned that he enjoyed sparing, so she took him up on the offer. Despite his intimidating looks, she warmed up very quickly to him. She tried twice to win against him and lost each time embarrassingly; and ever since she refused to spar again. But she truly enjoys the kind man's presence as he is the sweetest and most caring person to have around.

'''Acquaintances'''

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Sini'to Shadar]] (32)
Meeting him through [[Shin Nelhah]], she really got to bond closely with the man, at least from her point of view. They got to go on many missions together, usually him looking after her than her after him. From the very beginning she dubbed him 'Mr Grey' due to his monochrome colorization, a sign of how comfortable she felt around him.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Jochi Ejinn]] (??)
An Au Ra shaman from the Ejinn tribe who somehow came upon the Respite and would often grace the people there with his odd and peculiar presence. Meriell never got to approach him but one day she saw him in the water in the Goblet facing upwards so she jumped in to save him. It was then that she learned that he was from a tribe which had a natural affinity with water and that rescue wasn't needed. Despite the odd beginning to their friendship, she really likes his presence as he seems to be a good listener while she does talk a lot; and on more than one occasion he was actually very nice to her and helpful in his own way.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Borgaeir Seaborne]] (17)
A Highlander fellow whom she got to get to know much better during the Maid Event at the Respite. While few with words, he was very nice and incredibly helpful to her during the event and he wont her immediate trust. Behind the scenes she fooled around with him a bit and had some fun, trying to loosen him up and to get him to enjoy the entire event, and to some extent he seemed to like it.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Annarosie Madmantle]] (??)
Midlander just like Meriell, she met this lady as they were about to head to Camp Drybone to deal with the Amal'jaa matter. She seemed quite nice and she enjoyed talking with her even if her directness was met with blushes and great surprise. She found her rather endearing and looked forward to more interactions.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Crimson Dawn]] (??)
The leader of the Astral Crusaders. While the woman seems to be perhaps a bit brutal and casual, it is undeniable that she is dedicated and loyal, putting her life on the line for the company as well as it's members. They met only twice but Meriell found new admiration towards the woman as she showed amazing bravery and strenght on the battlefield, despite her savage approach at times.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Reinaldo Corryes]] (??)
'Fancy-pants" became this man's instant nickname as he came dressed outrageously for the Amal'jaa mission. Meriell didn't know what to think of the man and as the day kept going he proved to be extremely finicky to a fault. He had a high air about him which didn't work in his favour, Meriell found most unpleasant but she remained kind to the man.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Ren Kazumi]] (??)
The kindest of souls is in this gentle Miqo'te healer. Ren was most useful during their mission regarding the Amal'jaa, assisting them with her healer as well as taking down many enemies. Meriell truly enjoyed talking with her, treating her as a good friend even if they do not know each other that well.

:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] (??)
A close friend of her fiancee it would seem, the Keeper woman is a peculiar one and Meriell got to meet her better as she visited her to request a katana, as she was a blacksmith. Being pregnant she informed her she'd make it after giving birth. The woman has a sharp-tongue but also isn't very decent as she'd make slight obscene comments which Meriell definitely did not appreciate and the conversation was cut short. While aware that the woman had no bad intentions, she still avoids her a bit.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">History</div>===

<center>'''Please note that all information below is common knowledge that Meriell may share depending on her relationship with people; however there are still many secrets behind many decisions and those must be learned IC'''</center>

'''Upbringing''' (0-16)

<spoiler>
Meriell’s childhood was a peaceful one and with little thrills. Born to a simple Lominsan family with an older sister and younger brother, she was the middle child that somehow ended up being the one to wear the pants among the siblings. Her mother was a housewife and her father a well-respected Lieutenant in the Maelstrom. She led a comfortable life with a loving family but despite the peaceful and easy-going lifestyle, it was also demanding due to her father. Being a well-recognized Lieutenant in at the Maelstrom just like his father and grandfather before him, he wanted to continue the tradition.

He would train and teach his children day in and day out. Meriell’s older sister was much ahead as the age gap was considerate and she was promised a good position at the Grand Company. Meanwhile, Meriell and her little brother struggled much more. Over time, Meriell got better. Her father notice that she had good aim but she did not have the strength in her arms to swing her arms, so he switched her to a bow. It was the best decision ever, and it is something that stayed with her until today. Training rigorously, she wanted to make her father proud, quickly excelling and even managing to win duels against her older sister.
</spoiler>

'''The Maelstrom''' (16-17)

<spoiler>
Once reaching the age of sixteen, Meriell joined the Maelstrom where her sister, Agnes, was already a high ranking officer. Meriell had a lot to live up to, the bar set very high. Despite the high expectations, training rigorously every day and making sure to serve the Grand Company with every task that was assigned, she climbed her way up the ladder despite her young age, attaining the rank of Sergeant. Most of her work was around petty crime and stopping thefts and small criminals.
[[File:Mellmaelstrom.png|500px|right|]]
At times, her unit was tasked also with assisting those in need, mostly being refugees. Sometimes it was helping them, and in other containing them to be deported elsewhere; which was one of the things she hated the most. She had a soft spot for the children and she’d always try to make it a bit easier for them, by giving toys or candies behind her superiors’ backs. She did enjoy being able to make a difference but mentally it was taking a huge toll on the usually positive girl.

Behind her family’s back, she started working part time at the Bismarck, which wasn’t far from the Maelstrom headquarters. Her co-workers were well aware of her working there, and simply assumed that her family knew and that she needed to make some extra money on the side. While in truth, it was to serve as a distraction. She needed to interact with normal people, as well as be in a more positive environment. She got to brush up on her people skills and it was brought her great joy, something she missed back in the barracks.

After a year, her younger brother, Randal, joined the Maelstrom too as a mere private and he remained there as he had no ambitions to remain in the Grand Company. From the beginning, he wanted to leave and make his own life. This did not please their father at all who was ready to disown him but after some talking, it was appeased. The boy was allowed to leave peacefully, using the excuse that he simply wasn’t physically fit for the job. Randal left the Grand Company to travel the world as he had always wanted to, something Meriell was very jealous of. She kept in contact with him by constantly sending letters and she always loved hearing about his travels. His letters opened a completely new and unknown world to her, a world she wanted to discover. In her free time, she would read atlases and even look at maps, picturing how other parts of Eorzea looked like, other lands included. She developed an immense interest in the foreign and would even try to study other languages. She kept up this routine for a few months.

That was when her older sister, Agnes, married a fellow Corporal and decided to settle down, retiring from the Maelstrom to start her own family. This left Meriell alone in the Maelstrom. With her sister gone, her brother travelling the world but not physically there for her, she found little reasons to stay. She would sink into a deeper hole every day, her only escape were his letters which fueled her imagination of being free and going out on an adventure someday to see all the amazing things he had seen. Time went by and she came to the conclusion that she too had to leave the Grand Company. Well-aware that it wasn’t going to be a smooth conversation, she still gathered up the courage to confront her father. He forbid her immediately from leaving as she was the only one left to continue the service to the Maelstrom after he’d retire. Not wanting to anger him further, she remained for a few more months but her mentally took such a toll that she decided to resign. She went to her superior and gave him her resignation papers as well as her uniform, keeping only her trusted bow which she was given on her first day of service.
Meriell returned home as if nothing had happened that day. She did tell her mother the truth, and her siblings were well aware of her unhappiness with the Maelstrom. The only person they omitted was her father. At night, her mother prepared everything for the girl’s departure: clothes, food and gave her some money to last her a few days. They exchanged goodbyes, promising to write to each other constantly. Meriell then headed to the Bismarck where her boss gave her a contact in Thanalan, telling her to go there so she would be far away, enough for her not to run into her father.

Her father quickly learned that she had left the Maelstrom and it was something he never brought himself to forgive. While her relations with the rest of the family are at their best, her father refuses to acknowledge her existence after feeling he was stabbed in the back by her actions. Her mother and siblings were always aware of where she was from her letters, but they never revealed the information to her father. Regardless, he wanted to hear none of it.
While she felt horrible towards her father, she finally felt free, and the feeling was the best thing she had ever felt. Inspired by her brother’s letters, and with a contact in Thanalan, she immediately headed to the Airship Landing, anxious to finally start living.
</spoiler>

'''New Life at Club Lustre''' (18-19)

<spoiler>
[[File:Amongstars.png|350px|left|]]
Meriell arrived in Ul’dah at the Airship Landing and all she had was a piece of paper with unclear instructions as to where to go. Her boss from the Bismarck had sent her to Thanalan to perfect her skills and try to serve a different crowd to help her build up character. She was to work at the The Coffer & Coffin but she had no idea how to reach the place, and so, she walked up to a Lalafell to ask for directions. The Lalafell’s name was [[Ririan Ruruan]]. He was a shy fellow of very few words but with a sweet disposition and he helped her out and led her to the place just outside of Blackbrush. Once there, she was baffled by the state of the tavern and refused to work there and he agreed that it did not seem like the best place at all. They did enter however to have a look around and they met a Miqo’te man and a Roegadyn woman who exchanged some words with them and offered Meriell more insight into the entiretyof the matter. All of their words were well noted and she decided to find some other place to work at. After exchanging some words with the Lalafell, he proposed her to go to Gridania and she took him up on the offer as he brought her there. Gridania itself was gorgeous to her but she wanted something even lower key, wanting to get a real feel of the area. The two parted ways and over the next few days, Meriell found employment in the Bobbing Cork located in the Alder Springs as a waitress and an occasional help in the kitchen.

In the days to come, she worked there hard and made herself already a good name with the community, immediately liked by all. When coming back with some groceries for the kitchen, she ran into [[Ririan Ruruan]]. He was shocked to see her but she was overjoyed and showered him with attention and invited him to eat at the new place where she worked at. The two met some odd people that day but Meriell quickly made many new friends during some meeting they ended up in but they quickly separated afterwards to have some alone time. After some heart to heart talks and a nice bonding moment, the Lalafell suddenly asked her out and said he wanted to date her. Shocked but not against it, she gladly agreed and the two became an official couple.

After a couple weeks of working in Alder Springs, [[Ririan Ruruan]] informed Meriell that he was going to take up the Paladin Program in Ul’dah yet again after getting rejected several times in the past. Knowing that it meant a lot to him, she decided to join him to Ul’dah to show her support, which she did at times in rather explosive ways which shocked him but it got the job done. Intimidated, the officials allowed him to take the exam, which he ended up passing. While [[Ririan Ruruan]] would be passing his exams and training to become a Paladin, she would visit him over the weekends in Ul’dah, spending her free time wandering the areas and getting to know the culture and people, which made her end up in the Quicksand rather often. There, she met many people that quickly became good friends of hers and she often indulged in their company while her boyfriend was busy.

During one of such visits to the Quicksand, she ran into [[Madam Vonne]]. The Highlander woman approached her and struck up a conversation, at the end immediately offering her a job. Turned out that she was the owner of Club Lustre, a club for the higher classes located in the Mists and she wanted Meriell there as a server as the establishment was about to open its doors soon. Rather thrilled to hear that it was in the Mists, which was her home area, she agreed to visit the establishment and after seeing it and meeting the other people that were already employed there, she decided to stay. The bar was set high, but Meriell quickly became a favourite and she loved every single minute spent there. [[Ririan Ruruan]] appeared happy for her despite his doubts about the place as it sounded a bit suspicious as a club for the higher ups, but he kept his doubts to himself.
[[File:Meriellandvonne.png|600px|right|]]
Around the same period as she was leaving Ul’dah to go work in the Mists, she met a Doman man named [[Koji Ichihara]]. The two grew very close over time and Meriell saw in him a brotherly figure which substitute the position of her younger brother who was unable to be at her side. Being a foreigner, she wanted to know more about his culture and would bombard him with questions, as well as study on her own to learn as much as she could. Her fascinating was further cemented during that time, obsessed with anything from foreign lands. She quickly started calling him ‘Nii-san’ and he did not appear to mind, taking it as a compliment even. A kind man that always offered advice and a shoulder for support, she learned to depend on him very early on.

Soon after, the opening of Club Lustre was announced. Everyone rushed to prepare everything, Meriell being one of the main waitresses for the evening. She tended to every single guess on a personal level, chatting with them and making sure they were taken care of. She wanted to show how much she cared for each guest and she worked from opening hours until the very first rays of sunlight the next day. She shone like no other that evening and was promoted immediately after by [[Madam Vonne]] to chatelaine, making her in charge of organizing events and one of the most important members of Club Lustre, also taking care of the staff. She took up the mantle gladly and continued delivering her best during each event and opening for guests. During that period, she grew incredibly close with the owner [[Madam Vonne]], many suspecting them of having more than just mere friendship. The woman seemed to enjoy the girl’s company and often invited her to her private quarters where they would spend entire evenings talking about Club Lustre or even their future. The Highlander expressed great interest of keeping Meriell by her side should Club Lustre one day disappear, wanting to take her on her journeys across Eorzea. Always being a fan of travels and seeing new foreign lands, Meriell agreed without even thinking about it, their relationship growing even more suspicious to the public and other employees as Meriell appeared to become a favourite of the owner.

Not too long afterward, Meriell presented [[Ririan Ruruan]] to the other employees during a meeting they had to discuss internal affairs, and during that meeting she put him forward as a potential candidate for a guard position, to form part of the security. He was shocked but after a few quick words with her and the other people, he did decide to step up to the role and talked to the head of security. After exchanging a bit with the man, he was hired and made Meriell’s personal bodyguard due to her promotion and also being an easy target. Kind as she was and willing to please, it often got her into trouble, thus it was the person opportunity for him to take care of her.

Weeks passed and everything was going well. [[Ririan Ruruan]] followed her like a shadow, truly taking his job seriously and worried for her as many guests appeared to have a very particular liking for her. She seemed oblivious to it, her eyes solely focused on him anyway. One day she took him to her room for simple mingling but it was evident the Lalafell had something on his mind, and out of nowhere he proposed to her. She felt it was rather sudden but, getting along as they did, she did feel like he was the one, agreeing to his proposal.
</spoiler>

'''Joining the Astral Crusaders''' (19)

<spoiler>
Time went by, and a nice routine set in. Meriell was on cloud number nine, awaiting her day to be wed with [[Ririan Ruruan]]. She continued working diligently at Club Lustre, still under [[Madam Vonne]]’s wings, and despite being engaged, the Highlander didn’t seem to relent and would always try to coerce her, wanting her to join her on her journeys over and over. Meriell thought nothing of it and went along, somehow thinking that it would all work out. She saw a maternal figure in the Highland and thus, was easily manipulated and formed. However, all that came to a stop when one day she was informed of the death of [[Ririan Ruruan]]. He had been killed on a mission which he was sent to complete as part of his Paladin program. Meriell’s entire world shattered, reduced to a sorry state of her old self. The usually happy girl was but a shell, unable to even feel anything but pain. She stopped appearing at Club Lustre, unable to function and do her duties, which cost the Club its reputation and it soon fell apart, closing its doors.

[[Madam Vonne]], seeing her state, took her with her on her promised journeys, hoping it would also bring back her lost spirit. But it hadn’t. Meriell followed her without much of a thought, not even interacting of paying attention to her surroundings. Feeling pity for her, the Highlander decided that it was time to part, taking her back to the Bobbing Cork where her old friends were awaiting her. The two said their goodbyes and Meriell kept from her a spell book which she treasures until this day. At the Bobbing Cork, gradually, Meriell regained part of her personality, slowly re-adjusting to life and accepting that she was alone again.
[[File:Meriellgroup.png|500px|left|]]
Then, an old friend [[Shin Nelhah]] paid her a visit, proposing her a job. She was to accompany a group for adventurer's and assist in inspecting the Haukke Manor, and identifying the threat that lay dormant there. Ecstatic at the chance of a distraction as well as helping others, it was a much needed diversion, she went ahead with it. That was when she met for the first time the Miqo'te's partner [[Sini'to Shadar]] and another fellow Hyur, [[Leoden Garande]]. She immediately had a huge liking to the Hyur, who was not only close to her age, but she felt they had a lot in common. However, one road block was the fact that she wasn't part of the Astral Crusader's, who were the ones assisting in the quest, and to help them, she had to join their ranks. She visited them in the Goblet and had no issues at all joining their ranks as a fellow adventurer and also a waitress in their tavern section. It was something she had always enjoyed doing, no matter how simple. At the same time, the prospect of helping others while venturing out was another distraction, which helped her heal old wounds faster.

The day for the quest arrived. Together with [[Leoden Garande]], [[Sini’to Shadar]] and [[Ihrih Nhoyo]], they set out to the Central Shroud, towards Haukke Manor. Meriell’s teleportation spell went wrong and she ended up in Bentbranch, having to catch up to the party beside the manor’s main gates. There they could all spot two large Flying Eyes and they all prepped for battle, going in pairs against each. The Miqo’tes remained together and the Hyurs on the other enemy. Meriell struggled a bit, rusty after many years of not taking up her bow but it all came back to her as they engaged in combat, quick to defend her dear friends with her life if necessary. After they defeated the Floating Eyes an odd figure appeared before them, that of an elegant Elezen woman, although clearly voidsent or possessed. Meriell entered panic mode as she for some reason was lead to believe that the woman was [[Leoden Garande]]’s girlfriend, at least that was the assumption when she heard the Elezen speak, clearly trying to tempt the man. The entire party couldn’t believe her but they pushed on regardless. Being the only ranged person in the party, she had it easier and after some harsh words from [[Sini’to Shadar]], she ended up dealing the killing blow. Inspecting the body which remained, itturned out to have been a possessed Elezen by voidsent. The woman was alive, but just barely, and the group rushed her to the Conjurer's Guild back in Gridania to get assistance where Meriell failed to explain the situation correctly and the entire group almost faced arrest, saved last moment by [[Leoden Garande]] who was quick to explain and strike a deal. The next day Meriell had to suffer some intense questioning by the authorities about the entire incident but after a couple long hours, she was let off the hook.
Returning to the Goblet, the Astral Crusader's headquarters, she felt down and definitely did not feel like a hero as she had hoped for. There, at the tavern section, she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] and the two struck up a conversation, Meriell feeling amazing chemistry with the man. He was also new and it offered her comfort to know that she wasn't the only one who had issues fitting in perfectly. As he left, she definitely felt butterflies in her stomach and was looking forward to further interactions with the mysterious gentleman, as well as meeting the other members.
[[File:Mellandthorir.png|400px|right|]]
The next day, finally off the hook, she decided to start organizing her room within the Astral Crusaders, for personal reasons as well as to get her mind off matters. While arranging her things, she ran into [[Leoden Garande]] in the hallways; immediately asking him if he was alright after the quest. He reassured her and set her worries at ease. Talking for quite a while, she offered to show him her new room which was semi-furnished and the two sat down by the fireplace, talking some more. Among other things, they talked more about his survival skills as well as his Viera partner who apparently is on a journey and cannot even be located. Fishy and suspicious, Meriell did express her concerns but the man appeared set on his beliefs and trusts, thus, she dropped the topic. Amidst the chatter, some more intimate and odd talks spurted and the two actually seemed to notice that they were attracted to each other, but Meriell refused to even initiate anything, fully aware the man was devoted to another. But, she gladly offered to be of help when it came to women, which he gladly accepted and it made a new wave of silly questions arise. The two later on agreed to go on a trip to a fishing spot the man had discovered some time ago. Time and date yet to be set.

Continuing to clear out her old living place and moving to the Goblet, she ended up collecting an entire box of old toys from her childhood, deciding to actually give them away instead of throwing out. She carried the thing downstairs to the restaurant area where she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] again. After some small talk, he invited her on a walk around the Goblet as she wasn’t very well acquainted with the area. Overjoyed, she instantly took him up on the offer.

The walk took them to the center of the Goblet where multiple bodies of water could be found, something which brought her great joy as it was a great spot to cool down in the intense heat. A casual invitation turned into a mischievous play as she splashed him with water, and in revenge she got thrown into the entire pool fully dressed. He teased her mercilessly, leaving her rather speechless and barely able to even react other than blush and try to move away. Among all the fooling around, she accidentally knocked off his eye-patch, revealing his cut eye. Despite the shock of the sight, she wasn’t too fazed and told him she did not mind the look. He appeared to appreciate the words and once they got out of the water, he helped her dry up with his magic. In the midst of all that, they ended up embracing and shared a very brief kiss, which got quickly interrupted by a sneeze from her. With a cold starting, they quickly returned to headquarters where they both quickly changed into dry clothes and met up in Meriell’s semi-furnished room. [[Thorir Ryder]] instantly noticed the Doman-themed furniture and she admitted that she had a fascination with said culture, even going as far as wearing Doman clothing and at times even cooking some of their traditional foods. Bluntly, the man asked her if she wanted to add a Doman boyfriend to her collection. Shock and disbelief was written all over her face but, having moved on from her past loss, there was no reason for her to reject the man. He had been always very nice with her, and the bonus of him being Doman could not go ignored. She agreed.

The cold not relenting, Meriell decided to pay a visit to [[Shin Nelhah]] who gladly gave her some medicine, informing her that for the next few days the symptoms would worsen but at the same time the illness would end much quicker. It allowed her body to expel whatever which was the cause of her cold. Obediently, she took the doses as instructed and immediately felt the kick, spending the entire night in bed with a bucket at her side. The next day she tried to do something as she was unable to just sit all day, but whatever activities she tried, her cold would get in the way. Annoyed and depressed, she made her way to the restaurant area of the house again, searching for some herbal tea to perhaps cleanse her sinuses. There, glory and behold, she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] once more. He appeared to have been practicing his swordsmanship on stage, attacking a dummy and finally burning it to a crisp with aether. Meriell was amazed and applauded loudly at the display, instantly forgetting her need for the tea, but she kept tissues at her side at all times.

He noted that she was wearing traditional Doman attire, consisting of a red and black kimono. She was most happy to please him with that fact but apparently she had failed at tying the obi, despite the time it took her to do it. He helped her out after some teasing and pulling at the sash, much to her alarm and embarrassment. Noticing that her cold wasn’t getting any better, he proposed a bath. She agreed without putting much thought into the matter. Meriell already encountered a roadblock when she was unable to undo the obi he had adjusted for her, convinced it was done on purpose by him. He assisted her which made her entire clothing drop to the floor in an instant, leaving her absolutely traumatized. She hid immediately, collecting her clothing before her and then using him as a shield, only tensing up the atmosphere. After some drag and dawdling, they finally managed to get into the tub, where more tom-foolery ensued. Among all the talk, he had asked her about her interests and one of them was dance. He expressed interest in seeing her dance and so she promised him she would one day. She returned to her room to suffer in silence with her cold, hoping it was going to be gone the next day.

Summer was on with the intense heat accompanying it, and together with that, came the MoonFire Faire. Overjoyed at the festivities going on all over Eorzea, Meriell invited [[Thorir Ryder]] to join her in the fun, wanting to go see the stalls together with him as well as the fireworks show. He agreed and the same evening they returned to the spot where he had thrown her into the water in the Goblet, but this time the place was an explosion of colours. Lanterns adorned the archways, multiple food stalls lined the streets and many people and children alike could be found enjoying themselves. It was the perfect event for Meriell and she was overjoyed at the opportunity to go there with her partner. He took her, or better said, carried her, to a more secluded spot to have a better look at the fireworks which were planned after sunset. While observing, it triggered another talk about his homeland as well as his family, informing Meriell that he would like to introduce her to his family so they may stop presenting him with potential brides, all from noble backgrounds. She learned that he was actually from a noble house much like the potential bride candidates, which did cause the pressure and anxiety to rise but he seemed adamant on his choice of partner and it eased her worries for the time being, enjoying the rest of the evening with him. After the show, seeing as the night was still young, Meriell proposed that she was willing to offer him the dance she had promised him the other day. Intrigued, he agreed; and they returned to the house. Back in her room, she changed into her dance outfit which consisted of a red far eastern garb. Shy, but excited to get back into one of her hobbies, she presented him with an intricate fan dance she had been practicing since the day before, wanting to surprise him and make sure there was no room for mistakes. The dance lasted for a while, every now and then giggling bashfully as he watched her closely, but she was focused on showing him just what she could do, as well as keeping her promise from the other day. As she danced, he asked her what other dances she knew and she presented him with one more upon his request, quite happy to switch it up. Amidst all the dancing and growing yearning from both sides, the two ended up consummating their relationship.

The next day, planning to go out but a rainstorm cancelled all plans, the couple remained indoors at the house. Having not much to do, Meriell thought it would be a good idea to ask [[Thorir Ryder]] for sword-fighting lessons as she had been always lacking in that department, and since he was part of the establishments security and she had already the chance to see him in action. Seeing no harm in it, he agreed. He lent her a katana and the two went down to the stage area where he told her to repeat sword slashing at least fifty times over. Annoyed, she refused and did her own thing, which was sword-dancing. It triggered him and he told her off, wanting her to take it seriously. it also got her going and angered, she challenged him to a duel. Unmoved, he took up her challenge which ended rather quickly. While she kept her own, he suddenly dropped his sword in pain, and she decided to cancel the entire duel, immediately tending to him. She learned that his burned and scarred hands didn't have the strength anymore to use his katana as he did in the past. Feeling extremely guilty, she apologized, not wanting anymore to spar with him due to his condition; but she decided to take up sword-fighting on her own. it would only benefit her further when venturing out. As an apology, although it wasn't required, she made him a very big and rich supper, Doman-inspired to please him. In return he gifted her with Doman cooking books, which became her new treasure.
[[File:Astralcrusaders.png|600px|right|]]
In the coming days the two grew even closer, even going to Costa del Sol. There, [[Thorir Ryder]] opened up much more about what his family expected of him as well as what he wanted in life. Over the talk, heartfelt words were exchanged, solidifying their strong feelings for each other. Returning to the company, they encountered [[Leoden Garande]] who appeared shocked to see them together, dating. Meriell learned that the two actually were very close, almost forming a brotherly bond. It made her quite happy and she understood immediately why the two of them got together; for the exact same reasons why she got along with both of them. The Ala Mhigan appeared completely taken aback at the knowledge of them forming a couple, but when he saw how happy it made his friend, his worries were settled. Soon after [[Sini'to Shadar]] joined in on the conversation, and they all agreed to go see the fireworks again. Thinking that [[Shin Nelhah]] would have some for them to fire into the sky, she ran to her lab to fetch her or the fireworks but instead got locked, forgetting that the doors were one sided. Grumbling and stuck, she did notice some snacks left for her together with a plush toy and a note, telling her to eat the snacks and just relax for a few hours until the Miqo'te's return. Having no choice, she settled herself in the lab for the rest of the day, awaiting her friend's return. Eating all the snacks and having nothing else to do apart from waiting for [[Shin Nelhah]] she got bored and decided to make her brilliant escape. She climbed out a tight window which was located behind a giant boiler, a fact few people knew. She made her way around the house to re-enter from the main entrance, only to find her friends standing there. [[Thorir Ryder]], [[Leoden Garange]] and an unidentified Viera woman. Approaching them she learned that the Viera was in fact the woman whom [[Leoden Garande]] had fallen head over heels for, which sparked a multitude of questions to the woman, who was named [[Lynn Shiri]]. While the two men walked off to talk, Meriell would bombard the lady with questions about her homeland, quickly identifying her as another foreigner.
During the talk, they learned that something had been bothering [[Leoden Garande]] greatly, and [[Thorir Ryder]] seemed the one most knowledgeable about the reason, clearly trying to talk the man down. At first listening from afar and trying to make out what was going on, a second Viera woman named [[Rene Skathi]] joined in on the conversation, clearly evident that she was a close friend, or rival, of [[Leoden Garande]]. Among all the talking, she truly learned nothing at all apart from the spunky personality the Viera sported. Tired, and unable to keep up with the conversation, she excused herself, [[Thorir Ryder]] joining her for the night.

Time went by and a few days later Meriell ran into [[Leoden Garande]] at the headquarters, soaking wet after a storm. Remembering all too well her own sickness after getting wet outside, she stubbornly dragged him off to her room to dry him Once there, she had him sit on the couch while she gave him a couple towels to dry himself off, at the same time she sat herself on the floor, drying his feet for him on her lap. The two talked about many things, among others his interest in sewing and making garments as well as his leatherwork. Impressed, Meriell expressed great interest in the sewing, telling him that he could make her dresses. He appeared put under pressure with the fact that he could make things for his friends, but he didn't reject the idea.
The friendly banter took a big turn when Meriell accidentally mentioned his state from a few days prior but [[Leoden Garande]] explained the reasons behind his mood calmly to her. Seeing the full picture, she finally understood his reasons as well as his concerns. It was then that [[Thorir Ryder]] walked in on them. While [[Leoden Garande]] appeared worried, Meriell was her usual self, ecstatic to see her partner. [[Thorir Ryder]] did not seem to misunderstand anything and the three of them engaged in further conversation. She informed her partner that [[Leoden Garande]] was making clothings, so [[Thorir Ryder]] asked if he could make wedding dresses. It shocked Meriell completely, but luckily [[Leoden Garande]] immediately declined, not feeling up to par to fulfill such tall order. Meriell urged [[Leoden Garande]] to ask [[Lynn Shri]] on a date, but he was far too shy. That was when [[Thorir Ryder]] mentioned that he too had tried to go out with the Viera but he got rejected. The news hit Meriell hard for some reason. She never knew she could feel that way, a sensation she had never experienced before: jealousy. Unable to deal with the unknown emotion, she excused herself, leaving both men in her room as she went to get some much needed air outside.
She returned after a good few hours, finding [[Thorir Ryder]] awaiting for her in her room. They talked a bit, and she apologized for her immature behaviour, feeling like it was out of place and inappropriate at the time. Not bearing any ill will towards her, he saw no reason for her to apologize, and instead, he invited her out to show her a place. She gladly agreed and they changed wards in the Goblet and walked until they reached a small house. Once inside she learned from him that [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] had lent them the house during her absence, the only thing she wanted in return was to make sure no one robbed it. While the offer didn't seem very fair, [[Thorir Ryder]] reassured her that it was alright. having no choice but to accept she agreed on the condition that she could later thank the Miqo'te personally. They explored the house and came upon a tub at the upper floor where they both decided to take a bath. It was there that somehow the talk of marriage came up, and he teased her about the wedding dress talk from earlier, asking that if he had asked her back then, if she would have accepted a marriage proposal. Dumbfounded and shy, she at first denied it but after further teasing, she gave in, admitting that she would've said yes. During their intimacy, he asked her about contraception and she confirmed that she had received assistance from [[Shin Nelhah]] regarding that, not wanting to get pregnant so soon and also wanting him not to worry about it. However, a few minutes after, he asked her what she would think if he had asked her to stop taking contraception from the female Keeper. She had nothing against it but under the condition that he made her an honest woman. This sparked conversations whether to follow Doman traditions or Eorzean. The topic was dropped however for another day.

The talk came much sooner than expected, the very next day. Back at headquarters, they met in her room and the conversation came up instantly. [[Thorir Ryder]] asked her what her answer to yesterday's talk. Confused she asked if he was referring to the children or marriage, to which he replied that both. Although worried of getting rejected she said she would agree but only under the condition that they wed. The news hit the Doman hard and he collapsed in her arms. Sheer panic overcame her as she started to call for help while holding her unconscious partner in her arms on the ground, calling frantically for [[Leoden Garande]] and [[Shin Nelhah]]. Luckily, the man came to rather quickly and upon waking up, he asked her straight up if she'd marry him. Thrilled, she immediately agreed as he gave her a ring which was a family heirloom. That was when [[Leoden Garande]] walked in on them, having arrived after hearing her screams of help prior. The moment got awkward and odd as they just stared at each other, before Meriell exclaimed that [[Thorir Ryder]] had asked for her hand in marriage. It got even more awkward by the minute as the Ala Mhigan didn't seem to understand the scenario or what was going on, deciding to take his leave, noticing the air getting heavier in the room. Still quite stupefied, the couple recollected themselves, only then the reality hitting home. It was a moment of utter happiness for Meriell.

Days went by and Meriell would go about her daily duties, tending to the restaurant as well as taking care of her private matters, feeling like she was invincible and could take on the entire world. She visited [[Leoden Garande]] quite often the moment she found out he moved in to the room next door, absolutely thrilled at the news. The two, always getting along, didn’t change at all as they would talk for hours about [[Leoden Garande]]’s hobbies and interests. She was really into his new found hobby of sewing and he offered to make her something which brought her great joy.

Finally she got the opportunity to visit [[Ihrih Nhoyo]], wanting to thank her for lending the house. She had never spoken to the woman and at first was on very official terms with her, but as the conversation went on, she would relax and be her usual friendly self. Using the opportunity, she also asked if the Miqo’te could make her a katana as she was still using the one from [[Thorir Ryder]] and he had told her to visit the woman and ask her as she was an accomplished blacksmith. She agreed but only after giving birth as the woman was pregnant for at least four months. Meriell would never pressurize and agreed, not being in any particular hurry. The two sat to some tea and talked some more, but Meriell felt extremely uncomfortable as the woman would make some vulgar comments and then poke and prod at intimate details, including asking her if she had any plans with her husband to be; Meriell assuming the woman was referring to building a family. It wasn’t a topic Meriell ever wished mentioned or discussed so she took her leave as quickly as she could, while still being cordial.
[[File:Leodenandmell.png|600px|right|]]
Back in the main hallways of the estate, she sat herself by the bar area with a glass of water in hand, thinking, having doubts. Was her life truly headed the right way? Setting aside the inappropriate comments from the Miqo’te, she noticed the toll that pregnancy had over the woman. It wasn’t a simple matter and doubts started to arise in her mind, wondering if things were perhaps going too quickly. She was still young, and not too certain if she wanted to immediately start building a family with [[Thorir Ryder]]. Guilt came over her, wondering if she was maybe too fast with the entire relationship, although to her it felt right. Was she going to have children immediately after they were wed? Would she live up to the standards of his noble family life? Would his family even accept her? The bar was set high and she was starting to feel the heat badly. The cheerful girl getting rather depressed as she pondered her life. It was like looking back in time to when she had been engaged to [[Ririan Ruruan]] whom she still missed dearly. It then hit her, thinking if to her [[Thorir Ryder]] was perhaps nothing more but a substitute, a much needed distraction. She couldn't make out her thoughts at all, all she knew was that she felt extremely bad and she wanted the feeling the end; a sensation she wasn't accustomed to. That was when [[Leoden Garande]] spotted her and approached her, calling her name. Startled and snapping back from her state, she fell off her stool but he was quick to help her right back up, clearly worried for her well-being. She didn’t seem her usual self and would avoid his gaze, as well as talking about her problem. Her eyes would begin to water as she kept it all bottled up inside and he decided to take her back to his room to talk in privacy, locking the door behind them. In his room, she still didn’t manage to open up to him, not wanting to put her troubles on her dearest friend and also not wanting to discuss her private matters, she did however mention [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] which set the Hyur off instantly. She wasn’t aware that he had some history with the Miqo’te but it set in motions the following events at lighting speed. [[Thorir Ryder]] knocked on the door and the man let him in. Meriell avoided any talks, forcing her usual cheerful personality but then [[Leoden Garande]] called out [[Thorir Ryder]], calling him blind and oblivious to the facts around him. Meriell understood that the man was referring no doubt to the Miqo’te woman; and while she was the trigger for her state, she wasn’t the reason for it. The entire situation snowballed and exploded as the two man exchanged heated words, with Meriell right in the middle. She begged [[Leoden Garande]] to calm down and just let the topic die off but he did not back down, intent on resolving the matter right there and then. [[Thorir Ryder]], unable to take any more of it, left the room, leaving the two Hyurs. Meriell had never seen the gentle man ever get so heated and aggressive, shocking her to the core, but she adored him regardless. She approached him, wanting to calm him down; offering her thanks for him trying to take her side and defend her. Wanting to ease the tensions, she reminded him of a promise he had made to her, wanting to take her to one of his favourite fishing spots. He appeared to appreciate her words but he avoided any interaction, not wanting her to get in trouble for spending time with him and said it wasn’t a good idea. With a stern voice, she proclaimed that if her husband-to-be could not accept her friends, then she would rather have no husband. Leaving the room, she commented with a small tease that she never thought of him to be someone who would break promises, expecting him to come through.

Returning to her room next door, she just felt like breaking down, but she had no time as [[Thorir Ryder]] had been awaiting her arrival. Exhausted and drained, she sat herself on the floor beside him as he was on the couch, placing her head in his lap as she just closed her eye and relaxed. He questioned the explosion form [[Leoden Garande]] and Meriell was quick to try to soften the situation, not wanting the two friends bickering or her being the reason for it. She already felt enough guilt as it was, and she didn’t want more, intent on speaking to [[Leoden Garande]] the next day to clarify things. [[Thorir Ryder]] let her do as she pleased, not wanting to interfere in her decisions. The issue was set aside completely and he decided to invite her to an outing the next day, to which she agreed.

The trip was put on hold by her fiancee, so Meriell decided to pay a visit to [[Leoden Garande]] to check up on him after the fight from the day before as well as to clarify things, hopefully softening the situation. He greeted her gladly and the two talked some more about his garment making, him confessing to making her a bandana which was inspired by her antics from a couple days ago when she had assaulted his crate of materials and had draped them all over herself. While talking, she spotted that one of the pillars on his room was damaged and recently cleaned, asking him about it. He admitted that after the fight the other day, unable to contain his anger, he let it out by punching it. Definitely not thrilled, she felt the guilt rising again and apologized for even getting him involved. The conversation took a nose dive as she confessed to him part of her worries and concerns, all of them related to the future which she couldn't escape facing. He couldn't help much as he himself was new on the topic but he supported her wholeheartedly. As they sat together, they talked some more, Meriell touching base on his relationship with [[Lynn Shiri]]. She was truly thrilled for her friend to be happy but amidst the talking, they both confessed to having feelings for on another, feelings that were already apparent early on before she had even met [[Thorir Ryder]]. Both being in relationships and committed, they agreed that it would be folly to do something brash, and they agreed to remain as close friends as they were so far; while it pained her to know that they both bore feelings to one another, the guilt didn't help either. They moved off the topic, both not wanting to dig deeper into it as it was rather unpleasant and heart-wrecking; Meriell mentioning that [[Thorir Ryder]] was planning to take her to Kugane, and she asked him if he wanted anything from the far land. He seemed a bit worried about her being taken far away but he replied stating he wanted nothing but her safe return. The mention of her husband-to-be brought up an entirely new topic, which were [[Leoden Garande]]'s doubts towards the man which arose after having and discussion with him over [[Ihrih Nhoyo]]. Ideas and comments were thrown and discussed and it made Meriell question a few more things but she wasn't off-put by the Miqo'te woman, wanting to give her a chance despite the inappropriate questions which were addressed by her when she visited her. To change topic, [[Leoden Garande]] quickly went back to his workstation and finished the bandana for her, gifting it to her with his name stitched on the inside to remember it was a gift from him. Ecstatic, she immediately started to wear it, stating she'd never take it off. Somewhere in the glee, she smashed her forehead against the table, quickly forced to take off the bandana and instead press a cloth with ice to her forehead. The visit finished on the most friendliest of terms, their close bond never seeming to break as Meriell would look forward to the trip to Kugane with [[Thorir Ryder]].

Sitting in the hallways, she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] who took her on a small outing to Camp Bronzelake to show her the hot springs as well as wanting to spend some quality time with her. She was quite pleased as she had never been at hot springs and the two would proceed to talk about their future together. Still having doubts and worries, she mean to address her concerns to him but she found out it wasn't needed, as while talking, he set all her worries at ease. Overjoyed, she simply indulged in his company as they proceeded to plan their trip to the Far East. Apparently it was to last a good couple days, so Meriell visited [[Leoden Garande]] one last time to bid farewell. Before she left, he offered her a linkshell to keep in touch.
</spoiler>

'''Discovering the Far East''' (19)

<spoiler>
Meriell and [[Thorir Ryder]] arrived the next day via his teleportation at the port of Kugane. The girl was absolutely stunned at the beauty of the place, unable to focus on a single thing as she'd run around all over. Exhausted from teleportation, [[Thorir Ryder]] proposed they go eat and he took her to a nearby restaurant where she could try the regional specialties. The two engaged in conversation, talking about the place, as well as complimenting the food as they tried many things. Meriell stuffed herself to the brim and they resumed their walk afterwards, as he showed her from a tall bridge the gorgeous view of the entire city and port. She was stunned and adored every bit of it, taking in the sights at every step. She was able to observe the sunset from the bridge and it was a view she'd never forget as it disappeared over the horizon, where her beloved Eorzea was. Deciding to settle their bags, they went next to the inn in Kugane and left their bags at the establishment, also taking the chance to change as she felt she stood out far too much in the crowds and feared getting pick-pocketed. After changing and resting up a bit, they went over to the hot springs which the city offered and decided to take it easy for the rest of the day. That was when she learned more about his past and history; learning that he had indeed killed his own father in a duel to the death to become head of the family.
[[File:Thinkingofhome.png|600px|right|]]
In the evening, they decided to hit the market area. Meriell was absolutely amazed at the amount of wares as well as how different they were to the ones back at home. She ran from stall to stall, engaging in conversation with all the merchants, wanting to know all the little details. They did purchase a couple things and decided to retreat for the night. As her fiancee fell asleep, she found herself much too excited to even feel tired and decided to take a walk around the city at night to see the sights herself again. Settling herself under a tree in a more secluded area, she played around with the linkpearl [[Leoden Garande]] had given her, and she actually activated, immediately catching him off guard as the two started to converse. He appeared distraught, admitting to her that [[Lynn Shiri]] had departed on another mission and he wasn't certain if she would come back, leaving him all alone. Meriell had no idea what to say, but she felt deeply for her friend and she would try to divert his attention with different topics. Among them however, she did touch the fact that [[Thorir Ryder]] was really intent on having an heir and it pulled at [[Leoden Garande]]'s heart to hear that, however, he let her do as she saw best, which didn't really help her with her feelings. She admitted that she missed his company already and that she was looking forward to seeing him again the moment she got back to Eorzea. After closing the call, she returned to the inn for the night, looking to the stars all the time as she walked, thinking.

The next day, after a big breakfast, [[Thorir Ryder]] took her to Shirogane which was the residential area of Kugane. It was different from anything she had ever seen and she took in all the sights, including fireworks as it seemed they also celebrated the Moonfire Faire there. They had t climb multiple sets of stairs to get from one area to another, and it actually tired her quickly, needing to take breaks every now and then, luckily he did not seem to mind and helped her. Rain came pouring down and they found shelter in a small shack built on the beach to rest in, where they talked about their upcoming wedding as well as their plans to settle. To her relief, he wanted to stay in Eorzea, meaning she did not have to say goodbye to anyone, but the mention of coming to Kugane more often came up, with the proposition of even going there for a few months a year, an idea which she wasn't opposed to. They started playing around the beach, chasing each other, but Meriell found herself unable to keep up, being out of breath quickly and it worried him but she blamed it on her large breakfast that day. Before leaving Shirogane, she requested they get some shaved ice, which they did; he one and she two. She ate them quickly, which prompted questions but they were tossed aside. Returning to Shirogane, they went to eat some dumplings and she devoured those too within a few minutes from each other. Now really concerned [[Thorir Ryder]] confronted her, asking and telling her that she had been eating quite a lot ever since they had arrived to Kugane and that while she appeared healthy, she was clearly struggling with more physical actions like climbing a set of stairs. She denied it, still blaming other things but he then told her that she might be with child. It froze her to the core, debating whether he was right or not. It took her a moment to snap back to reality and when she did she tried to brush it off with humour, however, he had a very valid point. He suggested having her tested but neither were ware of method, so he suggested checking in with [[Shin Nelhah]] which terrified her. Meriell immediately rejected the idea, fearing the Miqo'te's retaliation at the knowledge of a possible pregnancy. Meriell decided to simply wait, as time would tell. Having no other choice, [[Thorir Ryder]] agreed. They continued their trip as he took her to a few more food stalls where she could enjoy the local specialties, her hunger clearly not sated. Walking more, the would get winded quickly when climbing stairs but it did not stop her as they managed to hit up a few more stalls but her stomachache didn’t relent and he requested that she visits a doctor the next day. To set his worries at ease, she agreed. They returned to Shirogane to spend the rest of the day at the beach, fooling around in the water and having fun over the sand. It was there that Meriell told him a bit more about her family, which was upon his request. However, she was adamant about not seeing her father, but the rest of the family would definitely be thrilled at the news of their engagement.
Later on that evening, she called [[Leoden Garande]] again to update him on her trip, as well as to hear about his own day. He seemed to be still down about the events from a few days ago and she would try to lift his spirits with her cheerful nature. While talking, she did mention her stomach aches and she added that [[Thorir Ryder]] suspected it was the beginning of her pregnancy, something which worried [[Leoden Garande]] greatly. She calmed him however saying that she had a doctor appointment for the next day and that most likely it was nothing at all. Reluctant but not wanting to move deeper into the topic, he dropped it and the two just chatted some more before turning in for the night.

Early morning, while [[Thorir Ryder]] was sleeping, she headed to the main square of Kugane to seek out a doctor and she easily found one, accepted immediately into their office. The doctor checked her and she did mention to him what she and her fiancée suspected but nothing was conclusive. Unable to pin point anything at the time, the doctor prescribed her some painkillers in the form of powder, which was water soluble, to take after every meal for a week. The news wasn’t great or bad, simply nothing was determined which left her a bit worried but she decided not to overthink it and just enjoy her holiday. She ate a bun at the town square for breakfast while also taking her medicine and that was when [[Thorir Ryder]] found her. He noticed the bag with the powder and asked her about her morning and she admitted to having visited a doctor and told him of the results. Most likely she simply overate and was anxious from the trip and prospect of pregnancy, which induced her pains. Seeing that she was doing better, he proposed to show her a part of Doma, however warned her that it wasn’t the friendliest of places and asked if she had her bow with her, as well as more comfortable clothes. Luckily, she always had her bow with her as it was one of her most prized possessions. She returned to their inn and quickly assembled her Maelstrom bow, as well as getting changed into more suitable clothing, later on meeting up with him by the Aetheryte plaza. [[Thorir Ryder]] then teleported them to Yanxia, in an underground bunker it seemed. She had never seen something of the sort and he explained that the tunnels were built during the occupation of the Garleans, to help with fending them off as well as protection. She looked around the caves for a moment but they soon exited to the outside, being greeted with a wilder part of the area as vast plains of greenery covered the horizon as well as tall mountains and cliff sides. The area was littered with tigers and other predators, putting her a bit on edge and she walked with her bow out almost at all times, ready to shoot to kill if needed. They reached the waterside and crossed it over the shallow waters, going towards a manor in the distance as they inspected it; also witnessing grand sculptures embedded into the side of a mountain which were carved by hand years ago. It was a completely different world and it fascinated her, at each turn something new to discover. He also showed her one of the Doman settlements, or at least what was left of it. She had never expected it to have been that bad and it left her with lingering feelings of sadness as she witnessed the devastation. Not a single building was left untouched, the streets damaged and the buildings crumbling to dust with monsters running amok. It was very sobering. Being fascinated with the culture, it dawned on her as to how close the Domans were to loosing said culture and identity, but she was glad that they did survive and managed so thrive eventually, [[Thorir Ryder]] being living proof of such cases. Should have the Garleans truly eradicated them, most likely he wouldn’t have been standing at her side, and it was eye-opening. Moving away from the settlement, he took her to a small pier where they were taken to the Doman Enclave, a place where Domans could rebuild their lives and culture after the desolation. The place was much closer to what she had imagined I her mind when reading about Doma, the houses, while still under construction, had a distinct appearance and the shops which littered the streets were very different from those back in Kugane, although some wares were similar, showing the connection between both places. They walked around the enclave, mingling and enjoying the little things before stopping at a pagoda to take a rest. It was there that [[Thorir Ryder]] confessed that he was contemplating about purchasing an apartment in Shirogane. She had not expected such news but she wasn’t going to oppose his wishes or tell him specifically what to do, as it was, after all, his money. He told her that they were to be wed and thus her opinion mattered but she insisted that she wasn’t going to meddle into his finances. They consulted a bit about the apartment, which also would serve as their official home, as well as a place for them to stay at whenever visiting Kugane instead of having to retire to inns each time, offering some stability. It was a sound idea and she was all for it. Intent on settling the matter, they returned to Shirogane and [[Thorir Ryder]] immediately went to take care of the apartment matter, letting her take care of procuring some food for them in the meantime. She found a couple food stalls at the port to Shirogane and purchased various traditional foods for them before meeting up again next to some hot springs they had discovered in the area. Relaxing there and while eating, they talked about the day as well as exchanging views on their trip to Yanxia and various other matters, including her stomach pains. She was adamant that it was nothing important, while he still had his doubts. Off topic, she asked him how much longer were they to stay in Kugane, and it was decided to stay longer to take care of the new apartment as well as to get used to the place. Afterwards, the two retired to the new apartment. Meriell was surprised at how it looked: expensive. It was something she still hadn’t fully adjusted to and it took some time to feel at ease at the place. He comforted her, stating that whatever he had what hers and that she was to feel there like at home, as it was their home together. She inspected the apartment, noting the kitchen, where she’d gladly spend a good part of her day, instructing him teasingly that it was her territory. They exchanged a few sweet words before turning in for a night of sleep at their new place.

In the middle of the night, she went outside to catch some much needed air, enjoying the salty breeze. She then called [[Leoden Garande]] via linkpearl as per usual. First of all she calmed his worries about a possible pregnancy before updating him on her adventures of the day. He seemed still rather skeptical about the entire thing but hearing her as cheerful as always, he let it slide. He touched base on the topic of her fiancee, worried if the man was truly well-suited for her, concerned that perhaps everything was happening too quickly, but she was adamant about her decisions. The further the conversation went, the seeds of doubt returned to haunt her. She questioned everything for a moment, wondering where her life was headed, fully aware that [[Leoden Garande]] also harbored feelings for her. The confusion drove her mad, unable to handle her feelings and thoughts before breaking down for a brief moment. She had never been exposed to such a situation and it was not a pleasant experience. He managed to calm her down, stating that if [[Thorir Ryder]] truly loved her, then she had nothing to fear; and she knew that he did, thus, calming her worries. Conflicted, she decided to return to bed and to her fiancee.

[[Thorir Ryder]] finished furnishing the entire apartment and they spent the day arranging everything, planning to visit the Ruby Sea the following day. The next day, the indeed visited the Ruby Sea, both armed with their weapons in case if they were needed as some areas were still hostile. They visited Sui-no-Sato first, followed my Tamamizu. Meriell was thrilled at the magic of the place, being able to breathe in a large bubble of air underwater, while being able to see all the fish swim over them. It was a surreal experience and she enjoyed every bit of it, collecting seashells at the bottom of the sea. The couple exchanged some sweet words and interactions before returning back to shore and finally to Shirogane, slowly getting ready for their departure. Meriell made sure to pack them up and clean the place so it would be ready for their next trip, but she was still excited to return home to the Goblet. On the day of their return, [[Thorir Ryder]] took some time off to meditate beforehand so he would have enough energy to teleport such a long distance. Once he was prepared, they finally left the Far East, to arrive back at the Goblet.
</spoiler>

'''The Turning Tide''' (19)

<spoiler>
Back at the Respite, Meriell finally unpacked her bags and prepped the gifts for all of her friends, however, the house seemed deserted. Together with [[Thorir Ryder]] they went downstairs to the restaurant area to grab a bite when two new faces appeared; a Lalafell named [[Lillily Lilly]] and an Au Ra [[Jochi Ejinn]]. They had never seen them before and thus Meriell decided to introduce herself to them. She took an immediate liking to the Lalafell but the Au Ra did not seem to be eager to talk, or better said, he was new to Eorzea and appeared to have language issues. Slowly but surely, more people joined on the meet and greet, and Meriell got to finally meet all the people from the establishment. [[Leoden Garande]] appeared too, and she wanted nothing more than to hug him but she restrained herself, not wanting to instigate some fight or conflict between him and her fiancee. During the conversation, she started feeling not very well and left the house to catch some air. When she returned, she spotted both of them talking in the hallways so she hid behind a potted plant to eavesdrop on the conversation. It was clear that their relationship was strained and it wasn't working out. Once [[Leoden Garande]] left, she revealed herself to [[Thorir Ryder]] who took her outside to talk. He was confused about the entire feud between his friend and himself and he wanted to fix it no matter what. Meriell proposed that they push it to another day as they had just returned from the East but he was adamant about tackling the issue immediately. Not too willing but not going to refuse him, she agreed and they both returned to the Respite to talk to [[Leoden Garande]]. They found him in his room, and they both joined him at the table. The conversation was relatively calm, but Meriell did not feel like being there. It felt almost like a punishment, having to sit between two of her favourite men, listening to them bickering. Luckily the conversation was short but they did come to an agreement and they shook hands to seal the deal. Relieve, she could finally relax, knowing that the friendship hasn't ended. It was then that [[Leoden Garande]] presented to her the garments the had been working on for her during her vacation.Absolutely thrilled, she immediately tried them on, treasuring them for life.

The next evening, a big event was planned at the respite: maid evening! Meriell immediately took up her mantle as a waitress and dressed up for the event, tending to the tables and guests downstairs. [[Thorir Ryder]] took care of security with [[Rumia Scarlet]], and as staff it was Meriell together with [[Borgaeir Seaborne]]. The night was chaotic as they found out there was no cook so Meriell quickly covered for the kitchen with [[Borgaeir Seaborne]]’s help. The two clicked well as they worked together and even got to have some fun that evening. She met some of the guests like [[Tiamos Loren]] and then she met a lady who was a fellow dancer. Once the night quieted down, the two took the center stage and danced together to entertain the guests. An old member of the Respite had joined them in catering, [[Kathir Ragewind]]. She had never met him before but he gladly assisted with the bar area, which was a load off Meriell’s shoulders. Exhausted after the tiring and demanding day, Meriell finally retreated to her room with [[Thorir Ryder]].

Days went by and a nice routine followed, days filled joy and glee as talks of her wedding would begin, planning the event and the entire ceremony with her fiancée [[Thorir Ryder]]. As things calmed down, she visited [[Leoden Garande]] to finally give him his gift which she had brought from the East. It was a small music box, as she wanted it to fill the room with music as he often just sat their quietly and all alone. He seemed to really enjoy it and it made her happy. During the visit, they talked about his relationship with [[Lynn Shiri]] as he seemed even more troubled as she had again departed somewhere and refused to accept any assistance from him, making him feel worse and useless. She comforted him as best as she could, asking him to voice his concerns to the Viera. Wanting to cheer him up, she reminded him of the trip he had promised her and they agreed to go to the fishing area the next day Plans changed however the next day. Meriell ran again into [[Kathir Ragewind]]. The intimidating Hrothgar immediately won her trust and friendship with his kind demeanor. She learned that many liked to spar with him and so she took him on too. It was evident that she was going to lose, and she did in the most embarrassing way. [[Thorir Ryder]] then appeared and decided to also get some practice in with the Hrothgar while Meriell tended to herself, pain all over her body as she got treated like a rag doll. Her fiancée lost after again his arms started to shake, but she opted not to intrude and allowed his friend to assist him, although it always hurt her to see him in pain. It was then that [[Lynn Shiri]] came downstairs together with [[Leoden Garande]], proposing that they all go to Costa del Sol for some much needed relaxation. They all agreed and with the help of [[Kathir Ragewind]] teleported there. Once there, they all had fun and played on the beach as well as in the waters of La Noscea, all bonding and getting to know each other better. Everyone apart from [[Leoden Garande]] who seemed depressed and in his own world. While worried, she let [[Lynn Shiri]] take care of him.

Morning came and Meriell immediately visited [[Leoden Garande]], intent on getting him out of the house and to talk with him in peace about his state from the day before. He took her to Eastern Thanalan where he finally showed her his fishing spot. While being a very good fisher herself, she let him indulge as she would only observe, and talk. They touched base on his doubts about his relationship and she offered whatever advice possible. It was evident that many things were eating at him and she was unable to help much, but she let him know that she’d always be there for him should he ever need help. Among the talk, Meriell confessed that due to her marriage looming closer and closer, she did not know how much time she'd still possess to give him, aware that most of her moments would be dedicated to another. It hit him hard and he refused to just let her go, upsetting him greatly. Sensing this fear, she wanted to comfort him, although aware that little could be done. It is then that she considered the unthinkable and she asked him gently if he wanted an affair. He was unable to reply and she was aware that her proposition was uncalled for and absolutely cruel to even consider and she backed down, telling him to forget about it, feeling ashamed for even considering such an option. As she turned away, mind returning to the fishing, she was brought back to the topic as he moved and immediately kissed her. Her mind and heart raced immensely at the flood of feelings being poured out through the kiss, their very first kiss and clear sign of their feelings for each other. She returned it eagerly, hands wrapping around this man whom she adored. However, neither of them uncertain as to what this would mean going forward, they both agreed that they had to take it slow and careful, knowing that this coming to light could do much to hurt those they were already connected to. As they talked, they had come to nearly forget about the fishing part, but when it came back around to discussing it, Leoden joked about getting "the best haul of his life", which alleviated the mood and got them both laughing merrily before they finally returned to the Respite. There, they ran into [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] together with [[Kathir Ragewind]]. The woman immediately left them as she got sick, most likely due to her pregnancy, leaving the Hrothgar with the duo. Intent to win, Meriell challenged him yet once more, and lost even worse than last time as she took his sheath to the head, knocking her out cold. Everyone worried for her but she was fine, if only dazed and annoyed at her loss. She ate a hearty meal with the group before decided to retreat for a much needed rest.

Come early morning, she received a letter from home, which caught her by surprise as it wasn’t from her brother but her mother. Opening it, she found out that her father had passed away. Absolutely baffled and unable to act, she immediately left the house to clear her head, unknowing as to what to do, she ended up passing by the center of the Goblet where she bought some food. While it wasn't required, she just felt she required to keep her mind occupied. That was when she spotted a body floating in the water. She threw everything aside and jumped in to save the man but then found out it was [[Jochi Ejinn]]. He almost drowned her in the chaos but they finally both left the water and he clarified in his basic and broken Eorzean that he wasn't drowning but meditating. That was when another Au Ra joined them named [[Olzii....]] who explained further as he was much more fluent. The two were clearly friends or related in some way or another. The man invited Meriell to have a drink with them and they easily found some seats by the water, both Au Ra having a good laugh at her for trying to save [[Jochi Ejinn]]. The paler commented on her cheery disposition, stating it was outright creepy which hit her hard and she remained silent for most of the exchange Among the talk, she remembered having lost all of her items which she had bought in the water. Silently, [[Jochi Ejinn]] went to retrieve her things, giving them back to her. It definitely made her day as she thanked him, selecting through the items what was salvageable and what was meant to be tossed aside. They continued talking when a third Au Ra joined them, a woman from the Malguld clan. The talk got heated but finally everyone settled down, while the two Raen talked, Meriell would observe [[Jochi Ejinn]] as he would do some mesmerizing things with the water in the basin. Finally Meriell left them as she decided to return to the Respite as the hour was late. Walking back alone with her items in a bag, it was then that the realization of losing her father hit her and she broke down. Settled in a corner of the streets of the Goblet, she wept, not wanting to show herself in such state to anyone so she let it all out before returning. She took out the wet letter from her mother from her pocket, carefully unfolding it to look at it again, sobbing. A funeral was to take place, and she was requested to attend.
[[File:Pregnancy.png|500px|left|]]
She informed [[Thorir Ryder]] of the events the next day and he did everything in his might to comfort her and to get her distracted. They discussed details as to how to honour the death of her father as well as what was tradition in Lominsan burials. He suggested her to write a letter for her father and to have it buried together with him. While not traditional, she wasn’t opposed to it and agreed. He would ask her a bit about her past as well as about her relationship with her father. She explained that while she had good relations with him, it got strained the moment she left the Maelstrom and after that he had stopped acknowledging her. She still loved her father regardless of what he thought of her and she wanted to honour his death. Meriell decided to bring her old Maelstrom uniform, assuming it would’ve pleased her father to see her one last time in it and she tried it on to make sure she still fit. Luckily she did, although a bit tight in some spots. The couple decided to go out for a walk around the Goblet, which also served for her to test out the uniform further, and to her relief, it survived the test ride. They stopped by one of the cliff views of the Goblet where [[Thorir Ryder]] teased her some more as per usual, but it worked in her favour as it still kept her distracted and let her forget the entire family tragedy. After some horrible teasing and a touching intimate moment, the two relaxed on a bench as night-time fell upon them, observing the stars together. He commented on the amount of stars, asking how many she thought were up there, to which she replied that she believed there was a star for each person alive. The idea surprised him but even more so when she then said that soon, one more star would grace the sky. Uncertain if he understood what she meant, but kissed her cheek lovingly while she drifted off to sleep. Morning came and a new day with it. Meriell joined a group of people in the restaurant area as they conversed, among them [[Sinito Shadar]], [[Kathir Ragewind]] and [[Rumia Scarlet]], and [[Thorir Ryder]] joining them shortly. The talk was casual but when it touched the topic of family and she left them to calm her nerves, with her fiancee following suite. Once she calmed down, she returned to the group, apologizing for leaving them. After conversing for a good few hours, she excused herself and asked [[Thorir Ryder]] to join her outside. It was then that she told him point-blank that she was pregnant and the news hit him hard, although he was clearly ecstatic and overjoyed. He had asked her since when she had known and she admitted that the doctor back in Kugane had confirmed it, she merely hid it. He bore no ill-will towards her and shared the happy moment with her.

The day after, Meriell visited [[Leoden Garande]] to inform him that she was departing for Limsa Lominsa for the funeral for her father. He was genuinely shocked but offered her a shoulder to cry on as the two talked. While talking, a few heartfelt words were exchanged and one thing led to another as they ended consummating their relationship in his room. She always saw in him a dear friend, one whom she could always depend on, as well as someone whom she loved with her entire being. While he was new to such intimacy, she took the lead, making sure to be gentle and to treasure the moment they shared, unaware of when they could ever again be this close as their lives were being pulled in opposite directions. Despite the lingering guilt of cheating on her fiancee, she couldn't help but admit that it all felt right, wanting to remain in [[Leoden Garande]]'s embrace. It was a different kind of love all-together. [[Thorir Ryder]] was the aggressive and possessive type, wanting to settle down immediately and start a family with her, while [[Leoden Garande]] was soft, tender and loving... She cried in his arms, not wanting the moment to end and to return to the grim reality, but both being promised to another, they remained silent about their intimacy and with a pained heart, Meriell left him to head to La Noscea, encountering [[Thorir Ryder]] in the hallways as he awaited her with their packed bags. The two journeyed to Aleport, Meriell's hometown. They decided to deposit their bags first and have a tour of the area, however he didn't feel too well so he went to rest early on. Having time on her hands, she called [[Leoden Garande]] via linkshell to inform him of her safe arrival but to her surprised, he sounded rather alarmed and in a certain panic. That triggered a new conversation as Meriell met indirectly [[Helga Mistwaker]] as the woman spoke to her via the device, informing her of the deeds of her husband to be towards her. The woman was blind and [[Thorir Ryder]] had forced himself upon the woman in the past not two months ago. The news hit Meriell hard and she refused to listen to any of it, and that was when [[Helga Mistwalker]] and [[Leoden Garande]] teleported to Aleport to comfort her as well as to tell her everything in person. The Highlander woman was kind to her and explained in detail the events of the day where [[Thorir Ryder]] jumped her to make out with her out of the blue; and it was something Meriell could never phantom to happen. She couldn't cope with it, unable to accept it, wanting to just get away from them and all the problems despite [[Leoden Garande]] 's attempts to calm her and his comforting embrace. She ran off towards the lighthouse, settling herself on the edge of the cliff as she looked on to the town as well as Limsa Lominsa in the distance, singing an old sea shanty she had been taught when young:

''♪ "Cruel and cold like winds on the sea... Will you ever return to me..." ♪''

''♪ "Hear my voice sing with the tide... My love will never die..." ♪''

''♪ "Over waves and deep in the blue... I will give up my heart for you..." ♪''

''♪ "Time goes on, I'll wait to go by... My love will never die..." ♪''
[[File:Mellcryingbesideleo.png|500px|right|]]
It was after a while that [[Leoden Garande]] found her, sitting there in tears and emotionless, unable to squeeze out even a single smile. It pained him greatly to see her in such state and he did everything in his power to comfort her, to reassure her. It was then that she admitted to him her pregnancy with [[Thorir Ryder]] and he didn't seem bothered in the least with it, accepting her fully. It touched her and offered some comfort but she requested to remain alone nonetheless to process her thoughts. He obliged, leaving her alone as he departed with [[Helga Mistwalker]]. Left alone, she wept on while still singing her song, memories coming to mind as night fell upon the horizon, but she couldn't bring herself to return to the inn where her fiancee awaited, frightened to confront him knowing what she knew. She was aware that she'd be unable to hide anything from him, and it soured the entire trip further, already as it as meant for a funeral.
At daybreak, she finally gathered enough strength and returned to the inn before her fiancee would wake and got herself ready for the day, exhausted after the entire sleepless night. Clad in pure black garments, she prepped for the funeral which was to take place. As she left the inn, she was quickly taken aback by a gathering of Au Ras by the docks. Curious, she approached the gathering and noticed that they were were all there for some ceremony, and she recognized the shaman among them as [[Jochi Ejinn]]. She observed him perform the ceremony as a woman's body was laid in a boat which was later pushed into the waters and swallowed by the deep waters. As the crowd scattered, she approached the shaman and the two exchanged a few words before they returned to the inn where she had been staying at with [[Thorir Ryder]] and he came by shortly after. At the same time [[Kathir Ragewind]] appeared out of nowhere too but she was intent on having a talk with her fiancee and asked him to come outside with her as they needed to talk. By the docks, she questioned him, demanding answers to his past behaviours and he clearly did not appreciate the interrogation and gave her almost no information at all, only attacking her back with questions. She knew she had no reasons to doubt [[Helga Mistwalker]] as the woman had nothing to gain at all by lying, but not the same could be said about [[Thorir Ryder]] and she was fully aware of it. She did not want to believe any of it, especially the fact that her fiancee was a violent and brash man. And yet it terrified her, the knowledge and possibility that just maybe he could be the same towards her. The talk didn't last long as it went nowhere. Meriell finally stated that she wanted to remain alone for the duration of the funeral, and that she wanted him to return to the Respite, informing that she was intent to continue the discussion with him there, in [[Helga Mistwalker]] 's presence. He merely bowed agreeing and departed, leaving her alone. The solitude was refreshing and yet painful as she sat herself by the docks, weeping anew; only then spotting [[Jochi Ejinn]] but inches away from her, conversing with a local fisherman. She talked with the Au Ra and he asked her as to what was going on, so she explained. The topic changed to exchange opinions on reasons for marriage and he put it so plainly for her, stating that either she loved the man and was willing to marry, or not. Once he left, she still sat there, thinking on his words and all the words of advice she had heard from her friends. As she observed the waters, she saw the engagement ring upon her finger and it brought even more tears forth. Pained, she slid the ring off her finger and tucked it into her pocket.
Later on that evening, the funeral took part. She was in no mental state for it and it only added to the dread. As her father would have requested, she dressed herself in her old Maelstrom uniform for the ceremony. Her mother was there, together with her sister Agnes with her husband and two children. Her brother Randal also came despite his travels. She was overjoyed to see him as she adored him, and yet, was unable to express any joy whatsoever that day. The ceremony was carried out on a ship of the coasts of Costa del Sol as her father was given a sea burial; the coffin slid overboard to be engulfed by the sea. In her hand, remained the letter that [[Thorir Ryder]] had told her to write to her father. She couldn't bring herself to lay it inside the coffin, being aware who's idea it was. As the ship returned to Aleport, when disembarking, she tore up the letter in the hands, letting the gales carry the pieces of it away from her. The family gathered for a dinner where they caught up on recent events, all trying to cheer themselves up. She remained silent for most of the evening, trying to cope with the loss of her father as well as the horrible turn her personal relationship took. Without the ring on her finger, none of them asked her of anything and the talks remained joyful.
The next day, she was meant to stay but she decided to take her leave, packing all her things and heading towards the Aetheryte Plaza as she teleported herself back to the Goblet. She immediately attempted to seek out [[Thorir Ryder]] but was unable to find him. She avoided all contact with everyone and retreated to her room, most of the day spent sobbing when suddenly she heard her linkshell ring and it was [[Leoden Garande]], wanting to know how she was doing. She did not want any interactions but then he mentioned that [[Helga Mistwalker]] was with him and that made her leave her room. She found them easily in the hallways and the first thing she did was thank the woman for all the help she had provided. [[Leoden Garande]] immediately asked how how she was doing and Meriell remained distant, definitely not feeling it and struggling to cope with the loss and heartache. She retreated to her room for the evening and soon after he followed her, finding her crying on the couch of her bedroom. She immediately curled up into a ball, not wanting anyone to see her in her current state while crying her heart out, but he sat beside her, comforting her as best as he could. As he talked, she saw his torso starting to light up and she panicked, starting to smash him with a pillow in fear that he was on fire. It took him a moment to realize what she was going on about until he understood that his power desire to protect her was what was fueling his powers, manifesting itself in a brilliant light. Meriell explained that she did not require any saving or protecting but he expressed his concerns over [[Thorir Ryder]] as well as his fear that she might hurt herself in her current state. Touched by his kind words, she cradled herself in his lap, allowing herself that one moment of vulnerability to get all her emotions out. Feeling lonely, she requested him to stay the night with her and he obliged as they both fell asleep in each others embrace.
[[File:Breakup.png|500px|right|]]
Finally, the next day, she found [[Thorir Ryder]]. One side of her was happy to see him, while the other was dreading the discussion looming over them. She was distant, and avoiding him until he finally initiated the talk and she agreed to it. The conversation was amicable and without any raised voices until Meriell lost to her emotions and would start screaming in tears, lost and confused as to what was to happen. She adored the man more than anything, but she could not stand beside him with a clear conscience knowing what he had done in the past. That was when suddenly [[Leoden Garande]] came down the stairs, assisting [[Helga Mistwalker]] at the same time, as they had heard her screams and came to assist. Meriell couldn't even react to their presence as her entire mind was screaming, struggling to cope with the reality of the matter. That was when [[Helga Mistwalker]] confronted [[Thorir Ryder]], and the two had a lively exchange, and the problem was quickly explained, however, not in [[Thorir Ryder]] 's favour. Pained, he fell to the floor crying, begging Meriell not to leave him. While she wanted nothing more than to remain at his side, her values wouldn't have it. She approached him, kneeling before him as she embraced him in her lap, letting him cry as she wold comfort him tenderly; her heart breaking with each sob she heard. With great courage and hurt, she would have him look at her. Using [[Leoden Garande]] 's words, she told her fiancee that her heart no longer beat for him as it used to. [[Thorir Ryder]] broke down and she had no idea what to do or say, fearing that in the heat of the moment, she would just give in to his pleas and return to him. [[Leoden Garande]] then stepped in, telling her to go as he would tend to the broken man. Agreeing, she left the two of them, joining [[Helga Mistwalker]] upstairs and breaking down in her arms. The Highlander comforted the girl and the two exchanged a few tender words when suddenly [[Thorir Ryder]] emerged and took his leave, quickly substituted when [[Leoden Garande]] came over, asking the two woman if everything was in order. Meriell was still doing her best to cope with the entire matter and [[Helga Mistwalker]] would tend to her like a mother to a child. Having enough for the evening, Meriell returned to her room but was shortly joined by [[Leoden Garande]], wanting to make sure she was alright. He informed her that [[Thorir Ryder]] had no intentions of letting her go and that he would fight for her, something with saddened her as she had no desire for anyone to fight for her. All she ever wanted was to simply be happy with another person, not be some trophy.

Time went on, and Meriell found herself in an emotional hole. She hadn't seen [[Thorir Ryder]] for days and it worried her greatly, searching for him but unable to locate him anywhere. During her search, she found [[Kathir Ragewind]] downstairs at the restaurant area playing on the harpsichord. Intrigued and curious, she approached him and he invited her over to sit beside him at the instrument. She immediately took him up on the offer and after analyzing his playing she joined in as her fingers would play the lower tones of the melody. The two talked about their hobbies and interests and Meriell suggested that they should go on a camping trip after learning that the Hrothgar was an outdoors lover. The two decided to go out as they both loved being outside, but were greeted with a violent rainfall. Adamant, they went on until they got lost in the Goblet, but managed to find a more secluded spot to observe the stars. Alas, with the storm brewing, the clouds blocked everything so they merely talked until [[Leoden Garande]] called Meriell over the linkshell, startling her and almost having her plummet down the great chasms in the Goblet were it not for [[Kathir Ragewind]] 's quick reflexes. The Highlander asked her about their whereabouts and quickly located them, joining on the conversation. Nearby, fireworks erupted into the skies as the storm dissipated and the entire group turned to observe them. Meriell would then have immediate flashbacks to her first dates with [[Thorir Ryder]], king her go silent, trying to cope with the painful yet beautiful memories. [[Leoden Garande]] was no fool and he immediately took notice of her distance and dodging words but after she explained that she required time to come to terms with the events, he understood and didn't pressurize her further. [[Kathir Ragewind]] then surprised the two of them as he stated that in the ashes of something dead, new beauty is reborn. With that said, Meriell took her leave, allowing his words of wisdom to set in.

Couple days later, Meriell met [[Leoden Garande]] outside of the Respite as she was practicing her dance routines. Flustered, she fell to the ground as she hadn't caught him looking add he was quick to apologize. They ran into [[Jochi Ejinn]] but he quickly left them after exchanging a few words, and Meriell took the Highlander back to her room. There, she gifted him with a dried red rose, one that she had often worn in her hairs; given to him as a memento for him to remember her should they part, as he had requested a few days prior. It would seem that he had forgotten but he was very happy to received it. The casual talk quickly turned sour as he then informed Meriell that he had spoken to [[Lynn Shiri]] about their entire affair, unable to hide it from her and admitting to her that his heart belonged to Meriell. Apparently the Viera took the news very well, not seeming to show much emotion and staying with both feet firmly on the ground as she fully understood [[Leoden Garande]] 's words and did not blame him for any of it. It did not sit well with him as he broke down crying, almost wanting to have had received a reaction from the woman, any reaction. Meriell comforted him as best she could, although the attempt wasn't the best as in the midst of it all she blamed herself first and foremost, aware that if she had aid nothing all those weeks ago, no one would have ended up hurt. The Highlander was quick to negate her words, refusing to have her take the blame, explaining that if she had not said anything, it all would have come to light eventually. Over time, she would give in, admitting that what was done was done, but she requested to speak to [[Lynn Shiri]] wanting to apologize to her and tell her she was sorry for all she had caused. He did not seem to mind and the two embraced. In said embrace, they both relaxed and took a moment to calm their nerves and emotions as Meriell then asked him if he would have her. He responded to her query with a kiss, stating that it was obvious and that he didn't think it needed to be said. She was overjoyed like never before, immediately jumping on him with a tight hug, kissing him back. She cried tears of happiness as he held her in his arms, knowing that she was finally where she belonged and where she wanted to be. Ecstatic and feeling unbeatable, her playful side kicked in as she decided to race him to the bedroom, where she attacked him with a pillow and the two fooled around for a bit before calling it a day. She went to sleep that night for the first time crying tears of joy.
</spoiler>

'''Risen from the Ashes''' (19-Current)

<spoiler>
Days passed and everything quieted down in the Respite. Meriell went about her daily routine as per usual, however, avoiding social interactions while she went through the motions from the days prior. She could still feel the guilt eating away at her but she was certain of her choices and refused to back down. However, she still would seek out [[Thorir Ryder]] as she did not wish to cut all ties with him and still wanted to remain as friends at the very least, but he was nowhere to be found. No one had ever seen him since...

Slowly giving up fully on the man, she turned her entire focus to [[Leoden Garande]] who made her feel as if she were walking on air each time she saw him. She got to spend a lot of quality time with him, even teaching him how to dance; which were somewhat fruitful, but she definitely enjoyed the little things with him. One day, as he was cooking them up a meal, they got talking about the entire developments occurring around them, including their own progress. During said talk, he confessed that he was considering having children someday with her and even marriage. It surprised her as she never suspected him to be the type or even be aware of the topic, but then she remembered that long ago she did educate them on the meaning of marriage and all that was tied to it. She admitted that she was in no hurry, and neither was he luckily. Among the conversation, [[Leoden Garande]] confessed that he was quite excited about the incoming child, which she conceived with [[Thorir Ryder]]. Her eyes showed shocked and she looked away before admitting that she got rid of the pregnancy. She refused to delve deep into the topic and he didn't press it. The rest of the evening passed in nice company and nice conversation until the two of them got a bit frisky but suddenly [[Kathir Ragewind]] passed by and Meriell just died out of embarrassment, quickly running back to her room. Soon after [[Kathir Ragewind]] would pop into her room and he was quick to apologize about getting her flustered, but she thought nothing of it and hugged him before he left and then [[Leoden Garande]] reappeared to turn in for the night with her.

Morning came and Meriell then ran into [[Helga Mistwalker]]. She was elated to see her and the two shared a most tender moment, including Meriell showing her room to her for the first time and the two continued talking, [[Helga Mistwalker]] admitting that she was very happy to have Meriell as a daughter figure. They talk got cut short as [[Leoden Garande]] walked in on them, stating that he had offered his assistance to the Flames as in the North they suspected Garlean activity. Worried sick for him, Meriell requested to join him on the venture, as did the Highlander. He didn't seem too content with that but noticing how adamant both women were, he agreed. Meriell then mentioned that she felt the same way he did whenever [[Lynn Shiri]] would leave him on her own ventures. The mention of her name made him cry, as he still had feelings for the Viera and Meriell was well aware of that, but she didn't hold it against him at all. Seeing how broken he was, she decided to let [[Helga Mistwalker]] assist him while she herself went to get them some water. She got sidetracked immediately as she ran into [[Kathir Ragewind]] and the two ended up talking.
[[File:Visitinglynn.png|500px|left]]
Following day, she again ran into the Hrothgar again after escaping a storm which was brewing outside and the two had a very fun and lighthearted talk when suddenly [[Lynn Shiri]] walked in, soaked wet from said storm. Meriell immediately brought her a towel and snatching the moment, she was quick to apologize to the Viera, feeling incredibly guilty for technically taking away [[Leoden Garande]] from her. The guilt was eating away at her since the beginning and she had wanted to speak to the woman since it had all started. [[Lynn Shiri]] appeared confused and stated that she had no ill-will towards any of them, as if was simply the reality of the matter and that the only matter which pained her was the fact they were blaming themselves over it. It opened Meriell's eyes a lot hearing her words, and as a small token meant to be an apology, she gifted her a beautiful yellow-flower ornament for her hair which she had made. While it wasn't perhaps necessary, she still wanted to soften things up. [[Lynn Shiri]] was thrilled to receive the flower, thanking her and then retreated to her room to change out of her armor into more comfortable attire. Meriell then joined [[Kathir Ragewind]] downstairs and the two shared some hot chocolate while talking about its origins and then even Starlight Celebration. [[Lynn Shiri]] joined them shortly and she tried for the very first time hot chocolate and she fell in love with it, even stealing Meriell's share! The trio retired to one of the seating areas to talk among each other, and the Viera mentioned some trip planned to the Shroud with a new visitor they had at the Respite, named [[Zetoh'a Velshado]]. Meriell had never met the man but judging from the Viera's tone of voice, she appeared to like him which made her smile widely. As the Viera left the two of them, Meriell asked [[Kathir Ragewind]] if he would be willing to take up the role as her mentor when it came to sword-fighting as with the disappearance of [[Thorir Ryder]], she had no one to teach her. He was most happy to take up the task. As they talked, he mentioned that [[Leoden Garande]] had returned from his mission to the North for the time being and that he was talking to [[Sini'to Shadar]]. Meriell was over-ecstatic to hear that he was safe although it did sound odd that he was talking to the priest. While they weren't on bad terms, it just felt peculiar, but she didn't put much thought into it as speaking of the devil, [[Leoden Garande]] appeared before them. Overjoyed to see him safe and right there, she threw herself in his arms with glee and he returned the small affections. The three of them then started talking in general about combat and Meriell expressed interest in seeing them duel as she never had the chance, and as upon request, they gladly obliged. They both let her setup the rules for the duel and instead of a simple three-time touch or until yielding, she decided that the first to fall off the stage would be the loser. The two men found it interesting and agreed to it. They fought for a very long time and in the end, [[Leoden Garande]] ended up losing but only just; flying onto Meriell's table and then dropping to the floor. As she tried to catch him, she lost her balance and fell back to the floor herself. The group laughed it all off and eventually the Hrothgar left them to change as well as relax. Meriell then took her partner up to her room to tend to his bruises and while assisting him, she informed him of her meeting with [[Lynn Shiri]]. He was shocked and clearly worried but she quickly settled his concerns once she explained to him that the Viera had no hard feelings towards them, as it seemed she had even moved on and was doing quite well. It did seem to calm him down a bit although he confessed to her that he still doted on the woman, as he couldn't kill off his feelings so easily; but she wasn't angry at him. Meriell sat herself on the floor, laying her head in his lap as she reassured him that she wasn't angry at him for it and that she understood it perfectly, telling him to take his time. They talked some more but she then quickly drifted off to sleep and he took her to the bedroom. Snuggling up to him and telling him how much she loved him, they both fell asleep in each others' embrace.
[[File:Meetupbeforemission.png|500px|right]]
News came from [[Kathir Ragewind]] that in Thanalan the Amal'jaa were gathering people and kidnapping them, and the company quickly took up arms and Meriell was no exception, immediately signing up to join in. [[Leoden Garande]] was at her side as was [[Sini'to Shadar]] and a few new faces. They gathered a good amount of people and they all headed towards Camp Drybone before venturing further East, until they found the Amal'jaa. They were immediately confronted by them and a fight started, Meriell unfortunately not having her day as she accidentally shot [[Sini'to Shadar]] in the head, luckily he wore a helmet and it simply bounced off. Further ahead, again she missed and again shot him in the head. He raged and it quickly came out that it was her doing. Ashamed, she decided to stay up front to avoid getting anyone killed. At one point they were ambushed by a rain of arrows and she did not notice in time to move away, saved by [[Leoden Garande]]'s quick thinking as he threw himself in front of her, taking an arrow to the shoulder. She panicked but did not let it show, doing her best to focus on the mission at hand and killing off every last of the Amal'jaa. The reached an embankment where they spotted the beasts leading the chained people away and they acted quickly to catch up. [[Ren Kazumi]] immediately attached the Amal'jaa from a distance with her magic, disintegrating them to dust and the slaves immediately ran towards them for safety and she escorted them out. While the group consulted on the next moves, [[Leoden Garande]] would quickly make his way to the other side of the embankment, intent on scouting forward. Seeing that, Meriell followed him in worry as well as wanting to be of assistance. Once she caught up, he quickly hid her in the bushes with him as he could see the enemy from afar and didn't want to alert him of their presence. In whispers, she apologized to him for being more of a nuisance as well as getting him hurt. he tenderly cheered her up as the rest of the party soon caught up. [[Sini'to Shadar]] was dazed for the entire time after getting two arrows to his helmet, the echo and impact making him look as if he were intoxicated. The group reached a higher platform in the area and were confronted by am Amal'jaa shaman mounted a top an immense black coeurl. They all prepped for battle, staying clear of the beast as it would often shoot out lightning at them. [[Leoden Garande]] tackled the shaman off the beasts back, splitting them apart. While most engaged with the shaman, the coeurl took interest in Meriell and charged at her but she managed to avoid it. [[Sini'to Shadar]], still dazed, wasn't of much use and [[Kathir Ragewind]] used his sword to slash open the coeurl's eyeball, sending it into a rage. With combined efforts, the shaman was taken down easily, attention then focused to the beast. Meriell used her arrows to blind the creature, destroying it's sight in it's only functioning eye. The creature enraged further, intent on killing the intruders and everyone took cover as best as they could. Terrified for her friends, she took a stand, using all of her arrows as she shot them into the sky and a torrent of arrows rained down from the sky to defeat the coeurl. They all rejoiced, tending to each other's wounds as they then swiftly freed the remaining people before returning to the Respite to heal and rest.

The following day, everyone still recovering but in high spirits from their success, she met [[Helga Mistwalker]] together with [[Leoden Garande]] and they all agreed to depart on their long planned camping trip in two days time. Thrilled, she immediately went to her room to start packing. [[Leoden Garande]] followed her and they would talk about the events of the day prior, wanting to make certain that he was alright and that his wound was healing. He was certainly fine and their talks moved to the bedroom as Meriell expressed her desire to redo things between then, that time properly. He seemed confused until she started to undress and the message became clear. They shared an intimate night in each others embrace, this time the right way without any barriers between them, without the feeling of guilt.

Not long after, Meriell ran into him and [[Helga Mistwalker]] in the hallways of the Respite and the two women learned that he had acquired and apartment from the Flames as thanks for his hard work. They immediately wanted to see the place and he took them there, which wasn't far at all as it was in the same ward. The apartment block appeared empty and only his apartment was there. Meriell inspected his flat with utmost interest, truly happy for him to get recognized for his achievements and dedication. Meanwhile, [[Helga Mistwalker]] seemed to get interested by a certain Roegadyn mannequin tucked into a corner of the room right at his bedside. Meriell thought nothing of it, seeing it as simply another one of his sewing endeavors while the Highlander questioned why it was even there beside his bed, not to mention it had a bikini on. He was absolutely flustered and had no words, blaming the Flames for placing it there as all the furnishing was from them. After the entire fiasco, he wanted to get rid of the thing as quickly as possible but then [[Helga Mistwalker]] expressed great interest in keeping it and he gave it to her most gladly.
Days came and went and the Respite was as dead as always. Wanting to get more life in, Meriell put together a cooking contest. A friend of hers came to judge together with her and also [[Borgaeir Seaborne]]. [[Kathir Ragewind]], [[Sini'to Shadar]] and [[Leoden Garande]] participated, each dressed just perfectly for the contest, even joking that perhaps it was a fashion show. Each one of them cooked marvelously and very different dishes indeed, showcasing their origins. [[Leoden Garande]] however had to leave as he suddenly got contacted by the Flames. While worried, she did let him leave. The judges gathered and deemed the Hrothgar's dish to take third place, the Highlander second while the priest took first.
</spoiler>

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Gallery</div>===

<gallery>
Meriellattire.png|Meriell's Far Eastern Clothing
Servingmell.png|Grand Opening of Club Lustre
SingingdancingMell.png|Entertaining at Club Lustre
Vonnemell.png|Madam Vonne
Meriellandriri.png|Meriell & Ririan
Swimmingthorir.png|Goblet Tour
Haukkemanorinfiltration.png|Infiltrating Haukke Manor
Mellinkugane.png|Kugane
maidevent.png|Maid Event
Fcbonding.png|Respite Downtime
Kathir&mell.png|Meriell with Kathir
Amalj'aamission.png|Amalj'aa Mission
</gallery>

[[Category:Character]] [[Category:Player Character]] [[Category:Character Stub]] [[Category:Hyur]] [[Category:Midlander Hyur]]

Meriell Bell

2020-02-11T19:30:34Z

Shin Nelhah: /* Gallery */

{{Infobox-character
| name = Meriell Bell
| image = Meriellprofile.png
| imagewidth = 340
| caption = "Can't escape the ticking of time... so live each day to its fullest!"
| gender = Female
| citizenship = Limsa Lominsa
| race = [[:Category:Hyur|Hyur]]
| clan = [[:Category:Midlander_Hyur|Midlander]]
| stat_1 = Age
| stat_1_value = 19
| stat_2 = Nicknames
| stat_2_value = Mell, Merry Mell Bell
| stat_3 = Occupation
| stat_3_value = Waitress / Entertainer
| stat_4 = Guardian Deity
| stat_4_value = [[Nophica, the Matron]]
| stat_5 = Marital Status
| stat_5_value = Single
| stat_6 =
| stat_6_value =
}}
<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">'''About The Player'''</div>
* '''Time Zone:''' CET - Poland
* '''Nationality:''' Canadian-Polish
* '''Server:''' Omega
* '''FC''': None
* '''Lodestone:''' [https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/character/14302654/ Meriell Bell]
* '''Additional Characters:''' [[Shin Nelhah]], [[Rinako Ura]], [[Black Forest]], [[Rorosa Rosa]], [[Odette Veaureaux]], [[Zetoh'a Velshado]], [[Bernadette Bearclaw]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">General</div>===

'''Meriell Bell''', usually going simply as '''Mell''', is a Lominsan barmaid, ex-Maelstrom, mostly known for her larger than life personality.

After leaving the Maelstrom, she started her career as a barmaid at the Bismarck back in Limsa Lominsa; which later got her to work in Thanalan and later on even in the Mists; her loving and outgoing personality being selling point for such a profession. Very likable and having a gift to interact with customers, she got employed at Club Lustre as the head waitress and chatelaine, in charge or organizing events and social gatherings. Due to some unfortunate events, she left the Club and after some time alone, she joined the Astral Crusaders as a waitress, and as an adventurer; seeing it as an opportunity to brush-up on her fighting skills as well as get back to her beloved customers.

Cheery and kind to everyone, she is the life of any party or gathering, genuinely wanting to make sure that everyone has a good time and that no one gets ignored or bored. Due to her hyperactivity, it’s not uncommon to see her switching topics at random, or even getting herself lost and confused by her own speed. Her mouth is definitely faster than her brain which often got her in trouble, despite the good intentions behind her words.

A simple lass, who takes pleasure in the small things in life. She is very easy to befriend and she would never turn anyone down or a good conversation.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Personality</div>===
The first thing anyone can notice immediately, and say to best describe Meriell, is her personality.

Limitless energy, hyper-active and always on the go; accompanied by a winning smile and a very cheerful demeanor, it is not possible to hate the girl. By default she is a very happy person and an optimist, which she easily infects her friends with.

Cheery and out-going, she has an easy time befriending anyone that crosses her path, unless they simply refuse to be friends with her. To her, everyone is a friend and an ally, and she’d never turned anyone down. Very quick to trust however, she often gets into trouble for placing her faith in certain individuals but it never put her off or made her learn her lesson; she still continues talking to strangers despite getting burnt in the past.

She is a very energetic girl who appears to never run out of fuel and will be all over the place at the same time. She enjoys talking and meeting new people, and her open personality allows her that easily. Learning about the different races, or even culture is one of her biggest hobbies so she feels naturally drawn to foreigners or even peculiar looking individuals; and she has no shame to approach them on the street with her questions. A big fan of fun and games, she can be often seen playing in the company’s front yard, or doing other outdoor activities.

Due to her age, she is perhaps seen as naïve, but there is more than meets the eye. She is definitely not thoughtless and can understand if she is being used or manipulated. The benefit of being such a friendly person, means that she is capable of extracting information from people easily without them even noticing. They often don’t see her as a threat or anyone of great matter that can cause harm. Her smile and cheery nature seem to easily fool many.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Appearance</div>===
[[File:cheerymell.png|520px|right|]]
One of Meriell's biggest traits which is immediately noticeable at first glance, is her award winning smile.

Meriell is quite tall for her kind, standing at a full 170cm. She is of a slender build and a lean figure with a strong physique. Despite her very feminine and girly looks, she is very sturdy and physically capable; all coming from her upbringing as well as her years in the Maelstrom, as well as her love for all sorts of outdoor activities. Being a very active person, it made her extremely agile and limber, despite her love for sweeties. Meriell always walks with a light air about her, a cheerful smile always on her face and appearing to be accepting of everyone around her as well as inviting with her warm demeanor

She has thick, light brown, shoulder-length hair in a convenient small bob, which wraps at her cheeks, giving her a slightly more juvenile look. Soft and bright big blue sapphire eyes, always with a glint of excitement and wonder in them. She has a very gently sun-kissed complexion thanks to working outdoors for extended periods of time. On her chin, she sports a small beauty mark. However, she isn’t one for makeup and wears absolutely none of it unless it is required due to work as a waitress or while on stage.

For clothing, she enjoys bright and warm colours, going from sunny oranges to deep reds and even vibrant pinks. Not shy to show skin but still rather modest with her attire, she'd often wears skirts or even dresses when the weather allowed it. However, for personal convenience and considering how hyperactive she is, she prefers trousers. She does enjoy jewelry and other accessories and often wears earrings or some pendants just to adorn her plain clothes and add more flare to them. In her hair, she quite often wears big bows or even flowers. An enthusiast of foreign cultures, it is not uncommon to see her wearings garments from the Far East.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Occupation</div>===

Many years ago, she formed part of the Maelstrom but it was for a very brief moment of her life, despite being groomed for it since birth. Her tasks were mainly assisting with stopping petty crimes and also taking care of refugees. Her soft spot were for the suffering children, and despite helping them, she wasn’t able to handle the pain well.
Behind her family's back, Meriell worked part-time at the Bismarck back in Limsa Lominsa for a few years as a waitress and wannabe cook, very often observing the cooks in the kitchen and offering help whenever they were short on staff. She was very helpful and always available to come in whenever help was needed. It was a job that brought her happiness and satisfaction, unlike the Maelstrom. Thus, she decided to leave the Maelstrom and lead a very simple life, continuing her career as a waitress at the Bismarck.

Truly liked by other employees and customers, she was the apple in the eye for many and even became the reason for many returning customers. Despite her popularity, she was moved to Thanalan to the Coffer & Coffin tavern by her employer, saying that it was for her to gain more experience in a more unfriendly environment; the entire goal to harden her a bit. Things did not go too smoothly and with some help from new friends, she traveled to the Shroud where she found work at The Bobbing Cork. She settled there for a long period, her reputation always surpassing her.

Every now and then she started hosting some small events to gather more potential customers. She’d often organize small dances or even more grand spectacles, and very often she’d be the entertainer for the evening. An accomplished dancer and acrobat, she developed a new hobby while dancing on stage and she still managed perfectly the balance between being a waitress and entertainer.
With such a good reputation, she was offered a job at Club Lustre, which was an exclusive club for the higher classes in Limsa Lominsa; meant to please the most demanding, with great food and entertainment as well as offer an amazing environment to socialize. She was the first waitress to join and quickly became a star employee, getting promoted instantly to head waitress and chatelaine of the establishment. The tasks were harder and much more demanding, but it seemed the harder they were, the more joy it brought her. She was tasked with overseeing the entire staff as well as organizing grand events on a weekly basis. She would still perform for the guests on rare occasions, but her main focus was to assist the other employees as well as the owner.

After multiple changes, she is currently debating where to end up professionally however, slowly her inclination is moving towards children and opening a daycare. Wanting and needing to earn money to support herself, waitressing would not bring her the needed support. Upon further consideration, she noticed that few people had even considered opening a kindergarten in the area and she saw it as a good opportunity. Adoring children she would slowly work towards that goal.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Combat</div>===
[[File:Meriellbow.png|600px|left|]]
The Hyur, at first sight, might not appear to be a fighter, but having a good look at her, she definitely appears to be able to handle her own in a fight. Powerful legs and strong arms, she could definitely pack up a punch and she wouldn’t hesitate to get aggressive if required, especially if it meant helping her loved ones.
Being born in a family fully dedicated to the Maelstrom, she was groomed from birth to join their ranks, as her older sister and father already had. Day in and day out she'd be training sword-fighting, bowman skills as well as her condition and physique.

Finally, having serve in the Maelstrom for little over a year, she became a really skilled bow-woman and also very good at hand-to-hand combat. A good eye and stable arms, she is able to take down enemies standing far away with a single arrow if taken the time to prepare. She can wield a sword but she finds it barbaric and an easy way to get hurt. Another reason for it, is she does not want to have any eye contact with the enemies while in combat as it always fills her with guilt. Thus, the bow will always triumph over all other weapons, which is her most treasured possession to this day.
If she cannot attack from a long distance and needs to be involved heads on, she will resort to using her own fists and kicks to fend off enemies. She is a very good acrobat, able to climb walls, trees, crawl through tight ducts with ease, or even cliff-sides. She does not mind getting her hands dirty and will gladly to the manual labour in any missions if necessary. She is more of a physical person than magic-oriented, and it is still unclear and unknown if she can use magic in big extents.

Due to her ex, [[Thorir Ryder]], she had taken up sword-fighting, and just like him, choosing a katana as the blade. At his behest, she started training every single day to get better, wanting to impress him as well as to get better herself. Always being one for long-ranged combat, she saw it as a benefit to learn close combat, wanting to be more useful to the company as well as to her loved ones, able to protect them when the day would come. However, with him leaving the Respite, she turned her attention towards [[Kathir Ragewind]], knowing that he would gladly continue her teachings.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Tendencies</div>===
'''Likes'''
::* Vibrant colours
::* Girly accessories
::* Mother nature
::* Spicy and fragrant foods that can stink up a room
::* Anything of foreign origin

'''Dislikes'''
::* Filthy places or establishments
::* Big, crowded cities
::* Stiff and rude people

'''Hobbies'''
::* All outdoor activities
::* Dancing the evening away
::* Loves cooking meals for family and friends
::* Puzzles. She adores the challenge of arranging the small pieces and it keeps her busy for hours
::* Everything and anything Doman

'''Skills'''
::* A good singer and dancer; an accomplished entertainer all around. She'd often provide entertainment for others
::* Easily makes friends with her bubbly nature
::* Well developed athletically with amazing endurance and stamina

<div style="border:0px solid; padding:8px;"><b>
<div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #90AB76;">◢ Common Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is well adored by many, and it is easy to see why! She is so lovely!"
: <font style="color:#90AB76;" size="3">■</font> "She is obsessed with Doman culture to the point of even sometimes dressing like one of them"
<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #F37E1D;">◢ Uncommon Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#F37E1D;" size="3">■</font> "I heard she was a waitress at Club Lustre... is that truly the only thing she did there?"
<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #D83018;">◢ Rare Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#D83018;" size="3">■</font> "Her cheery nature is almost eerie... Is it even real?"
<b><div style="padding:10px 25px; background: #aac5b4;">◢ PC Rumours</div></b>
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "We only just met... I didn't want to become attached, but I just couldn't help it around her. Her positive attitude is so contagious!" - [[Ririan Ruruan]]
: <font style="color:#aac5b4;" size="3">■</font> "A naive girl, but she is good at heart, and I feel like it is my duty to make sure she doesn't do anything stupid" - [[Shin Nelhah]]

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Relationships</div>===

<center><font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Family    <font style="color:#F02311;" size="3">♥</font> Love    <font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> Platonic    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">♥</font> Failed     <font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> Good    <font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> Neutral    <font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> Poor    </center>

'''Family'''

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Wilfram Bell (45 / deceased)
Meriell's father, a head-strong man with a powerful authority but loving heart, however driven by career. A very loving father and he was dedicated to his family above all else, but at some point once his children grew up, he deviated and wanted them to bring honour to the family above all else. Meriell always admired her father and he was a good friend to her, and she'd often find comfort in his words and look up to him, wanting to be just like him. But ever since she left the Maelstrom, there has been no contact, as he was let down by her departure.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Hilda Bell (43)
The mother to the children, a very caring woman who was a house-wife. Meriell was very close with her but she always was a daddy's girl above all else. Her mother would try to make Meriell more of a woman by forcing her into dresses and high-heeled shoes but it never worked for the little spunky lass who just lived out her tomboy life-style.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Agnes Bell (27)
The eldest of all three siblings, Agnes always had to hold her head high as the eldest. Meriell and Agnes got along just fine. They fought a lot like all siblings but they were always very close and there to help each other out. Agnes was the more feminine between the two of them, while Meriell was the one to get her constantly into trouble. Despite the years, the two remain close and write to each other often.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">♥</font> Randal Bell (18)
Youngest of all three, Randal was the odd ball that never fit in. Artistic soul, he'd often stay at home painting and making sculptures instead of being out with his older sisters. Meriell, however, adored his art and was the only one to compliment him, which in the end was his fuel to keep going and finally leave the nest in search of his own passions.

'''Love Interests'''

NONE

'''Friends'''

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Madam Vonne]] (51)
The owner of Club Lustre. A Highlander woman with a high air that Meriell ran into by chance in the Quicksand and got offered a job at Club Lustre where she was the owner. The woman inspired Meriell greatly with her noble-like air, and she immediately agreed to the offer and joined the staff to become a trusted employee of hers. Meriell respects Madam Vonne immensely and sees her as an icon, as her idol, and will do anything to please her. The woman almost became a motherly figure to the Midlander and she follows whatever guidance and advice she is given. The two really grew close during Meriell's employment and after some time, Madam Vonne would open up more and more to her, even to the point of confessing that she wanted to keep her around for much longer than only the duration of the Club Lustre, and Meriell agreed.

:<font style="color:#FA70BC;" size="3">♥</font> [[Helga Mistwalker]] (30?)
[[Leoden Garande]]'s tutor, the Highlander woman met Mrriell indirectly through him as she assisted her with her issues regarding [[Thorir Ryder]], informing her of the man's past stories with other women including herself. Meriell truly appreciated her help and honest, and would often confide in her, seeing her as a second mother as the two grew close. Helga did indeed become a mother to her very quickly and the two were inseparable, often found in each other's company, helping each other out.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Koji Ichihara]] (26)
Midlander just like Meriell, but hailing from Doma. The two met in Ul'dah under quite normal circumstances however, it was him opening up to her about his worries and his past that brought them closely together; her being the one to cheer him up with her merry mood and kind words. He appeared to appreciate her and over time, she quickly got to call him 'nii-san' as he taught her a bit about his culture, and she always wanted to know more about it, genuinely interested. Their relationships is like brother and sister, both supporting each other in times of need. He was the one who got her interested in Doman culture almost to an obsession.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Shin Nelhah]] (28)
A chance encounter at the Bobbing Cork in the North Shroud, and despite very different personalities, the two ladies actually got talking as Meriell was the waitress at the establishment. Seeing the Miqo'te there almost on a daily basis, got her wanting to get to know her whether the guest liked it or not. A bit of a forced friendship, Shin got to enjoy the girl's company, but would never admit that fact. The relationship over time became almost like that of a mother and daughter, with the Miqo'te looking after her.

:<font style="color:#4e9362;" size="3">●</font> [[Kathir Ragewind]] (200?)
Returning Hrothgar to the Respite after a long trip to the East. He returned on the eve of the Maid Event and he saved Meriell from running the entire restaurant and bar area. She approached him the next day to properly introduce herself and she learned that he enjoyed sparing, so she took him up on the offer. Despite his intimidating looks, she warmed up very quickly to him. She tried twice to win against him and lost each time embarrassingly; and ever since she refused to spar again. But she truly enjoys the kind man's presence as he is the sweetest and most caring person to have around.

'''Acquaintances'''

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Sini'to Shadar]] (32)
Meeting him through [[Shin Nelhah]], she really got to bond closely with the man, at least from her point of view. They got to go on many missions together, usually him looking after her than her after him. From the very beginning she dubbed him 'Mr Grey' due to his monochrome colorization, a sign of how comfortable she felt around him.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Jochi Ejinn]] (??)
An Au Ra shaman from the Ejinn tribe who somehow came upon the Respite and would often grace the people there with his odd and peculiar presence. Meriell never got to approach him but one day she saw him in the water in the Goblet facing upwards so she jumped in to save him. It was then that she learned that he was from a tribe which had a natural affinity with water and that rescue wasn't needed. Despite the odd beginning to their friendship, she really likes his presence as he seems to be a good listener while she does talk a lot; and on more than one occasion he was actually very nice to her and helpful in his own way.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Borgaeir Seaborne]] (17)
A Highlander fellow whom she got to get to know much better during the Maid Event at the Respite. While few with words, he was very nice and incredibly helpful to her during the event and he wont her immediate trust. Behind the scenes she fooled around with him a bit and had some fun, trying to loosen him up and to get him to enjoy the entire event, and to some extent he seemed to like it.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Annarosie Madmantle]] (??)
Midlander just like Meriell, she met this lady as they were about to head to Camp Drybone to deal with the Amal'jaa matter. She seemed quite nice and she enjoyed talking with her even if her directness was met with blushes and great surprise. She found her rather endearing and looked forward to more interactions.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Crimson Dawn]] (??)
The leader of the Astral Crusaders. While the woman seems to be perhaps a bit brutal and casual, it is undeniable that she is dedicated and loyal, putting her life on the line for the company as well as it's members. They met only twice but Meriell found new admiration towards the woman as she showed amazing bravery and strenght on the battlefield, despite her savage approach at times.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Reinaldo Corryes]] (??)
'Fancy-pants" became this man's instant nickname as he came dressed outrageously for the Amal'jaa mission. Meriell didn't know what to think of the man and as the day kept going he proved to be extremely finicky to a fault. He had a high air about him which didn't work in his favour, Meriell found most unpleasant but she remained kind to the man.

:<font style="color:#8f8377;" size="3">●</font> [[Ren Kazumi]] (??)
The kindest of souls is in this gentle Miqo'te healer. Ren was most useful during their mission regarding the Amal'jaa, assisting them with her healer as well as taking down many enemies. Meriell truly enjoyed talking with her, treating her as a good friend even if they do not know each other that well.

:<font style="color:#C24640;" size="3">●</font> [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] (??)
A close friend of her fiancee it would seem, the Keeper woman is a peculiar one and Meriell got to meet her better as she visited her to request a katana, as she was a blacksmith. Being pregnant she informed her she'd make it after giving birth. The woman has a sharp-tongue but also isn't very decent as she'd make slight obscene comments which Meriell definitely did not appreciate and the conversation was cut short. While aware that the woman had no bad intentions, she still avoids her a bit.

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">History</div>===

<center>'''Please note that all information below is common knowledge that Meriell may share depending on her relationship with people; however there are still many secrets behind many decisions and those must be learned IC'''</center>

'''Upbringing''' (0-16)

<spoiler>
Meriell’s childhood was a peaceful one and with little thrills. Born to a simple Lominsan family with an older sister and younger brother, she was the middle child that somehow ended up being the one to wear the pants among the siblings. Her mother was a housewife and her father a well-respected Lieutenant in the Maelstrom. She led a comfortable life with a loving family but despite the peaceful and easy-going lifestyle, it was also demanding due to her father. Being a well-recognized Lieutenant in at the Maelstrom just like his father and grandfather before him, he wanted to continue the tradition.

He would train and teach his children day in and day out. Meriell’s older sister was much ahead as the age gap was considerate and she was promised a good position at the Grand Company. Meanwhile, Meriell and her little brother struggled much more. Over time, Meriell got better. Her father notice that she had good aim but she did not have the strength in her arms to swing her arms, so he switched her to a bow. It was the best decision ever, and it is something that stayed with her until today. Training rigorously, she wanted to make her father proud, quickly excelling and even managing to win duels against her older sister.
</spoiler>

'''The Maelstrom''' (16-17)

<spoiler>
Once reaching the age of sixteen, Meriell joined the Maelstrom where her sister, Agnes, was already a high ranking officer. Meriell had a lot to live up to, the bar set very high. Despite the high expectations, training rigorously every day and making sure to serve the Grand Company with every task that was assigned, she climbed her way up the ladder despite her young age, attaining the rank of Sergeant. Most of her work was around petty crime and stopping thefts and small criminals.
[[File:Mellmaelstrom.png|500px|right|]]
At times, her unit was tasked also with assisting those in need, mostly being refugees. Sometimes it was helping them, and in other containing them to be deported elsewhere; which was one of the things she hated the most. She had a soft spot for the children and she’d always try to make it a bit easier for them, by giving toys or candies behind her superiors’ backs. She did enjoy being able to make a difference but mentally it was taking a huge toll on the usually positive girl.

Behind her family’s back, she started working part time at the Bismarck, which wasn’t far from the Maelstrom headquarters. Her co-workers were well aware of her working there, and simply assumed that her family knew and that she needed to make some extra money on the side. While in truth, it was to serve as a distraction. She needed to interact with normal people, as well as be in a more positive environment. She got to brush up on her people skills and it was brought her great joy, something she missed back in the barracks.

After a year, her younger brother, Randal, joined the Maelstrom too as a mere private and he remained there as he had no ambitions to remain in the Grand Company. From the beginning, he wanted to leave and make his own life. This did not please their father at all who was ready to disown him but after some talking, it was appeased. The boy was allowed to leave peacefully, using the excuse that he simply wasn’t physically fit for the job. Randal left the Grand Company to travel the world as he had always wanted to, something Meriell was very jealous of. She kept in contact with him by constantly sending letters and she always loved hearing about his travels. His letters opened a completely new and unknown world to her, a world she wanted to discover. In her free time, she would read atlases and even look at maps, picturing how other parts of Eorzea looked like, other lands included. She developed an immense interest in the foreign and would even try to study other languages. She kept up this routine for a few months.

That was when her older sister, Agnes, married a fellow Corporal and decided to settle down, retiring from the Maelstrom to start her own family. This left Meriell alone in the Maelstrom. With her sister gone, her brother travelling the world but not physically there for her, she found little reasons to stay. She would sink into a deeper hole every day, her only escape were his letters which fueled her imagination of being free and going out on an adventure someday to see all the amazing things he had seen. Time went by and she came to the conclusion that she too had to leave the Grand Company. Well-aware that it wasn’t going to be a smooth conversation, she still gathered up the courage to confront her father. He forbid her immediately from leaving as she was the only one left to continue the service to the Maelstrom after he’d retire. Not wanting to anger him further, she remained for a few more months but her mentally took such a toll that she decided to resign. She went to her superior and gave him her resignation papers as well as her uniform, keeping only her trusted bow which she was given on her first day of service.
Meriell returned home as if nothing had happened that day. She did tell her mother the truth, and her siblings were well aware of her unhappiness with the Maelstrom. The only person they omitted was her father. At night, her mother prepared everything for the girl’s departure: clothes, food and gave her some money to last her a few days. They exchanged goodbyes, promising to write to each other constantly. Meriell then headed to the Bismarck where her boss gave her a contact in Thanalan, telling her to go there so she would be far away, enough for her not to run into her father.

Her father quickly learned that she had left the Maelstrom and it was something he never brought himself to forgive. While her relations with the rest of the family are at their best, her father refuses to acknowledge her existence after feeling he was stabbed in the back by her actions. Her mother and siblings were always aware of where she was from her letters, but they never revealed the information to her father. Regardless, he wanted to hear none of it.
While she felt horrible towards her father, she finally felt free, and the feeling was the best thing she had ever felt. Inspired by her brother’s letters, and with a contact in Thanalan, she immediately headed to the Airship Landing, anxious to finally start living.
</spoiler>

'''New Life at Club Lustre''' (18-19)

<spoiler>
[[File:Amongstars.png|350px|left|]]
Meriell arrived in Ul’dah at the Airship Landing and all she had was a piece of paper with unclear instructions as to where to go. Her boss from the Bismarck had sent her to Thanalan to perfect her skills and try to serve a different crowd to help her build up character. She was to work at the The Coffer & Coffin but she had no idea how to reach the place, and so, she walked up to a Lalafell to ask for directions. The Lalafell’s name was [[Ririan Ruruan]]. He was a shy fellow of very few words but with a sweet disposition and he helped her out and led her to the place just outside of Blackbrush. Once there, she was baffled by the state of the tavern and refused to work there and he agreed that it did not seem like the best place at all. They did enter however to have a look around and they met a Miqo’te man and a Roegadyn woman who exchanged some words with them and offered Meriell more insight into the entiretyof the matter. All of their words were well noted and she decided to find some other place to work at. After exchanging some words with the Lalafell, he proposed her to go to Gridania and she took him up on the offer as he brought her there. Gridania itself was gorgeous to her but she wanted something even lower key, wanting to get a real feel of the area. The two parted ways and over the next few days, Meriell found employment in the Bobbing Cork located in the Alder Springs as a waitress and an occasional help in the kitchen.

In the days to come, she worked there hard and made herself already a good name with the community, immediately liked by all. When coming back with some groceries for the kitchen, she ran into [[Ririan Ruruan]]. He was shocked to see her but she was overjoyed and showered him with attention and invited him to eat at the new place where she worked at. The two met some odd people that day but Meriell quickly made many new friends during some meeting they ended up in but they quickly separated afterwards to have some alone time. After some heart to heart talks and a nice bonding moment, the Lalafell suddenly asked her out and said he wanted to date her. Shocked but not against it, she gladly agreed and the two became an official couple.

After a couple weeks of working in Alder Springs, [[Ririan Ruruan]] informed Meriell that he was going to take up the Paladin Program in Ul’dah yet again after getting rejected several times in the past. Knowing that it meant a lot to him, she decided to join him to Ul’dah to show her support, which she did at times in rather explosive ways which shocked him but it got the job done. Intimidated, the officials allowed him to take the exam, which he ended up passing. While [[Ririan Ruruan]] would be passing his exams and training to become a Paladin, she would visit him over the weekends in Ul’dah, spending her free time wandering the areas and getting to know the culture and people, which made her end up in the Quicksand rather often. There, she met many people that quickly became good friends of hers and she often indulged in their company while her boyfriend was busy.

During one of such visits to the Quicksand, she ran into [[Madam Vonne]]. The Highlander woman approached her and struck up a conversation, at the end immediately offering her a job. Turned out that she was the owner of Club Lustre, a club for the higher classes located in the Mists and she wanted Meriell there as a server as the establishment was about to open its doors soon. Rather thrilled to hear that it was in the Mists, which was her home area, she agreed to visit the establishment and after seeing it and meeting the other people that were already employed there, she decided to stay. The bar was set high, but Meriell quickly became a favourite and she loved every single minute spent there. [[Ririan Ruruan]] appeared happy for her despite his doubts about the place as it sounded a bit suspicious as a club for the higher ups, but he kept his doubts to himself.
[[File:Meriellandvonne.png|600px|right|]]
Around the same period as she was leaving Ul’dah to go work in the Mists, she met a Doman man named [[Koji Ichihara]]. The two grew very close over time and Meriell saw in him a brotherly figure which substitute the position of her younger brother who was unable to be at her side. Being a foreigner, she wanted to know more about his culture and would bombard him with questions, as well as study on her own to learn as much as she could. Her fascinating was further cemented during that time, obsessed with anything from foreign lands. She quickly started calling him ‘Nii-san’ and he did not appear to mind, taking it as a compliment even. A kind man that always offered advice and a shoulder for support, she learned to depend on him very early on.

Soon after, the opening of Club Lustre was announced. Everyone rushed to prepare everything, Meriell being one of the main waitresses for the evening. She tended to every single guess on a personal level, chatting with them and making sure they were taken care of. She wanted to show how much she cared for each guest and she worked from opening hours until the very first rays of sunlight the next day. She shone like no other that evening and was promoted immediately after by [[Madam Vonne]] to chatelaine, making her in charge of organizing events and one of the most important members of Club Lustre, also taking care of the staff. She took up the mantle gladly and continued delivering her best during each event and opening for guests. During that period, she grew incredibly close with the owner [[Madam Vonne]], many suspecting them of having more than just mere friendship. The woman seemed to enjoy the girl’s company and often invited her to her private quarters where they would spend entire evenings talking about Club Lustre or even their future. The Highlander expressed great interest of keeping Meriell by her side should Club Lustre one day disappear, wanting to take her on her journeys across Eorzea. Always being a fan of travels and seeing new foreign lands, Meriell agreed without even thinking about it, their relationship growing even more suspicious to the public and other employees as Meriell appeared to become a favourite of the owner.

Not too long afterward, Meriell presented [[Ririan Ruruan]] to the other employees during a meeting they had to discuss internal affairs, and during that meeting she put him forward as a potential candidate for a guard position, to form part of the security. He was shocked but after a few quick words with her and the other people, he did decide to step up to the role and talked to the head of security. After exchanging a bit with the man, he was hired and made Meriell’s personal bodyguard due to her promotion and also being an easy target. Kind as she was and willing to please, it often got her into trouble, thus it was the person opportunity for him to take care of her.

Weeks passed and everything was going well. [[Ririan Ruruan]] followed her like a shadow, truly taking his job seriously and worried for her as many guests appeared to have a very particular liking for her. She seemed oblivious to it, her eyes solely focused on him anyway. One day she took him to her room for simple mingling but it was evident the Lalafell had something on his mind, and out of nowhere he proposed to her. She felt it was rather sudden but, getting along as they did, she did feel like he was the one, agreeing to his proposal.
</spoiler>

'''Joining the Astral Crusaders''' (19)

<spoiler>
Time went by, and a nice routine set in. Meriell was on cloud number nine, awaiting her day to be wed with [[Ririan Ruruan]]. She continued working diligently at Club Lustre, still under [[Madam Vonne]]’s wings, and despite being engaged, the Highlander didn’t seem to relent and would always try to coerce her, wanting her to join her on her journeys over and over. Meriell thought nothing of it and went along, somehow thinking that it would all work out. She saw a maternal figure in the Highland and thus, was easily manipulated and formed. However, all that came to a stop when one day she was informed of the death of [[Ririan Ruruan]]. He had been killed on a mission which he was sent to complete as part of his Paladin program. Meriell’s entire world shattered, reduced to a sorry state of her old self. The usually happy girl was but a shell, unable to even feel anything but pain. She stopped appearing at Club Lustre, unable to function and do her duties, which cost the Club its reputation and it soon fell apart, closing its doors.

[[Madam Vonne]], seeing her state, took her with her on her promised journeys, hoping it would also bring back her lost spirit. But it hadn’t. Meriell followed her without much of a thought, not even interacting of paying attention to her surroundings. Feeling pity for her, the Highlander decided that it was time to part, taking her back to the Bobbing Cork where her old friends were awaiting her. The two said their goodbyes and Meriell kept from her a spell book which she treasures until this day. At the Bobbing Cork, gradually, Meriell regained part of her personality, slowly re-adjusting to life and accepting that she was alone again.
[[File:Meriellgroup.png|500px|left|]]
Then, an old friend [[Shin Nelhah]] paid her a visit, proposing her a job. She was to accompany a group for adventurer's and assist in inspecting the Haukke Manor, and identifying the threat that lay dormant there. Ecstatic at the chance of a distraction as well as helping others, it was a much needed diversion, she went ahead with it. That was when she met for the first time the Miqo'te's partner [[Sini'to Shadar]] and another fellow Hyur, [[Leoden Garande]]. She immediately had a huge liking to the Hyur, who was not only close to her age, but she felt they had a lot in common. However, one road block was the fact that she wasn't part of the Astral Crusader's, who were the ones assisting in the quest, and to help them, she had to join their ranks. She visited them in the Goblet and had no issues at all joining their ranks as a fellow adventurer and also a waitress in their tavern section. It was something she had always enjoyed doing, no matter how simple. At the same time, the prospect of helping others while venturing out was another distraction, which helped her heal old wounds faster.

The day for the quest arrived. Together with [[Leoden Garande]], [[Sini’to Shadar]] and [[Ihrih Nhoyo]], they set out to the Central Shroud, towards Haukke Manor. Meriell’s teleportation spell went wrong and she ended up in Bentbranch, having to catch up to the party beside the manor’s main gates. There they could all spot two large Flying Eyes and they all prepped for battle, going in pairs against each. The Miqo’tes remained together and the Hyurs on the other enemy. Meriell struggled a bit, rusty after many years of not taking up her bow but it all came back to her as they engaged in combat, quick to defend her dear friends with her life if necessary. After they defeated the Floating Eyes an odd figure appeared before them, that of an elegant Elezen woman, although clearly voidsent or possessed. Meriell entered panic mode as she for some reason was lead to believe that the woman was [[Leoden Garande]]’s girlfriend, at least that was the assumption when she heard the Elezen speak, clearly trying to tempt the man. The entire party couldn’t believe her but they pushed on regardless. Being the only ranged person in the party, she had it easier and after some harsh words from [[Sini’to Shadar]], she ended up dealing the killing blow. Inspecting the body which remained, itturned out to have been a possessed Elezen by voidsent. The woman was alive, but just barely, and the group rushed her to the Conjurer's Guild back in Gridania to get assistance where Meriell failed to explain the situation correctly and the entire group almost faced arrest, saved last moment by [[Leoden Garande]] who was quick to explain and strike a deal. The next day Meriell had to suffer some intense questioning by the authorities about the entire incident but after a couple long hours, she was let off the hook.
Returning to the Goblet, the Astral Crusader's headquarters, she felt down and definitely did not feel like a hero as she had hoped for. There, at the tavern section, she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] and the two struck up a conversation, Meriell feeling amazing chemistry with the man. He was also new and it offered her comfort to know that she wasn't the only one who had issues fitting in perfectly. As he left, she definitely felt butterflies in her stomach and was looking forward to further interactions with the mysterious gentleman, as well as meeting the other members.
[[File:Mellandthorir.png|400px|right|]]
The next day, finally off the hook, she decided to start organizing her room within the Astral Crusaders, for personal reasons as well as to get her mind off matters. While arranging her things, she ran into [[Leoden Garande]] in the hallways; immediately asking him if he was alright after the quest. He reassured her and set her worries at ease. Talking for quite a while, she offered to show him her new room which was semi-furnished and the two sat down by the fireplace, talking some more. Among other things, they talked more about his survival skills as well as his Viera partner who apparently is on a journey and cannot even be located. Fishy and suspicious, Meriell did express her concerns but the man appeared set on his beliefs and trusts, thus, she dropped the topic. Amidst the chatter, some more intimate and odd talks spurted and the two actually seemed to notice that they were attracted to each other, but Meriell refused to even initiate anything, fully aware the man was devoted to another. But, she gladly offered to be of help when it came to women, which he gladly accepted and it made a new wave of silly questions arise. The two later on agreed to go on a trip to a fishing spot the man had discovered some time ago. Time and date yet to be set.

Continuing to clear out her old living place and moving to the Goblet, she ended up collecting an entire box of old toys from her childhood, deciding to actually give them away instead of throwing out. She carried the thing downstairs to the restaurant area where she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] again. After some small talk, he invited her on a walk around the Goblet as she wasn’t very well acquainted with the area. Overjoyed, she instantly took him up on the offer.

The walk took them to the center of the Goblet where multiple bodies of water could be found, something which brought her great joy as it was a great spot to cool down in the intense heat. A casual invitation turned into a mischievous play as she splashed him with water, and in revenge she got thrown into the entire pool fully dressed. He teased her mercilessly, leaving her rather speechless and barely able to even react other than blush and try to move away. Among all the fooling around, she accidentally knocked off his eye-patch, revealing his cut eye. Despite the shock of the sight, she wasn’t too fazed and told him she did not mind the look. He appeared to appreciate the words and once they got out of the water, he helped her dry up with his magic. In the midst of all that, they ended up embracing and shared a very brief kiss, which got quickly interrupted by a sneeze from her. With a cold starting, they quickly returned to headquarters where they both quickly changed into dry clothes and met up in Meriell’s semi-furnished room. [[Thorir Ryder]] instantly noticed the Doman-themed furniture and she admitted that she had a fascination with said culture, even going as far as wearing Doman clothing and at times even cooking some of their traditional foods. Bluntly, the man asked her if she wanted to add a Doman boyfriend to her collection. Shock and disbelief was written all over her face but, having moved on from her past loss, there was no reason for her to reject the man. He had been always very nice with her, and the bonus of him being Doman could not go ignored. She agreed.

The cold not relenting, Meriell decided to pay a visit to [[Shin Nelhah]] who gladly gave her some medicine, informing her that for the next few days the symptoms would worsen but at the same time the illness would end much quicker. It allowed her body to expel whatever which was the cause of her cold. Obediently, she took the doses as instructed and immediately felt the kick, spending the entire night in bed with a bucket at her side. The next day she tried to do something as she was unable to just sit all day, but whatever activities she tried, her cold would get in the way. Annoyed and depressed, she made her way to the restaurant area of the house again, searching for some herbal tea to perhaps cleanse her sinuses. There, glory and behold, she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] once more. He appeared to have been practicing his swordsmanship on stage, attacking a dummy and finally burning it to a crisp with aether. Meriell was amazed and applauded loudly at the display, instantly forgetting her need for the tea, but she kept tissues at her side at all times.

He noted that she was wearing traditional Doman attire, consisting of a red and black kimono. She was most happy to please him with that fact but apparently she had failed at tying the obi, despite the time it took her to do it. He helped her out after some teasing and pulling at the sash, much to her alarm and embarrassment. Noticing that her cold wasn’t getting any better, he proposed a bath. She agreed without putting much thought into the matter. Meriell already encountered a roadblock when she was unable to undo the obi he had adjusted for her, convinced it was done on purpose by him. He assisted her which made her entire clothing drop to the floor in an instant, leaving her absolutely traumatized. She hid immediately, collecting her clothing before her and then using him as a shield, only tensing up the atmosphere. After some drag and dawdling, they finally managed to get into the tub, where more tom-foolery ensued. Among all the talk, he had asked her about her interests and one of them was dance. He expressed interest in seeing her dance and so she promised him she would one day. She returned to her room to suffer in silence with her cold, hoping it was going to be gone the next day.

Summer was on with the intense heat accompanying it, and together with that, came the MoonFire Faire. Overjoyed at the festivities going on all over Eorzea, Meriell invited [[Thorir Ryder]] to join her in the fun, wanting to go see the stalls together with him as well as the fireworks show. He agreed and the same evening they returned to the spot where he had thrown her into the water in the Goblet, but this time the place was an explosion of colours. Lanterns adorned the archways, multiple food stalls lined the streets and many people and children alike could be found enjoying themselves. It was the perfect event for Meriell and she was overjoyed at the opportunity to go there with her partner. He took her, or better said, carried her, to a more secluded spot to have a better look at the fireworks which were planned after sunset. While observing, it triggered another talk about his homeland as well as his family, informing Meriell that he would like to introduce her to his family so they may stop presenting him with potential brides, all from noble backgrounds. She learned that he was actually from a noble house much like the potential bride candidates, which did cause the pressure and anxiety to rise but he seemed adamant on his choice of partner and it eased her worries for the time being, enjoying the rest of the evening with him. After the show, seeing as the night was still young, Meriell proposed that she was willing to offer him the dance she had promised him the other day. Intrigued, he agreed; and they returned to the house. Back in her room, she changed into her dance outfit which consisted of a red far eastern garb. Shy, but excited to get back into one of her hobbies, she presented him with an intricate fan dance she had been practicing since the day before, wanting to surprise him and make sure there was no room for mistakes. The dance lasted for a while, every now and then giggling bashfully as he watched her closely, but she was focused on showing him just what she could do, as well as keeping her promise from the other day. As she danced, he asked her what other dances she knew and she presented him with one more upon his request, quite happy to switch it up. Amidst all the dancing and growing yearning from both sides, the two ended up consummating their relationship.

The next day, planning to go out but a rainstorm cancelled all plans, the couple remained indoors at the house. Having not much to do, Meriell thought it would be a good idea to ask [[Thorir Ryder]] for sword-fighting lessons as she had been always lacking in that department, and since he was part of the establishments security and she had already the chance to see him in action. Seeing no harm in it, he agreed. He lent her a katana and the two went down to the stage area where he told her to repeat sword slashing at least fifty times over. Annoyed, she refused and did her own thing, which was sword-dancing. It triggered him and he told her off, wanting her to take it seriously. it also got her going and angered, she challenged him to a duel. Unmoved, he took up her challenge which ended rather quickly. While she kept her own, he suddenly dropped his sword in pain, and she decided to cancel the entire duel, immediately tending to him. She learned that his burned and scarred hands didn't have the strength anymore to use his katana as he did in the past. Feeling extremely guilty, she apologized, not wanting anymore to spar with him due to his condition; but she decided to take up sword-fighting on her own. it would only benefit her further when venturing out. As an apology, although it wasn't required, she made him a very big and rich supper, Doman-inspired to please him. In return he gifted her with Doman cooking books, which became her new treasure.
[[File:Astralcrusaders.png|600px|right|]]
In the coming days the two grew even closer, even going to Costa del Sol. There, [[Thorir Ryder]] opened up much more about what his family expected of him as well as what he wanted in life. Over the talk, heartfelt words were exchanged, solidifying their strong feelings for each other. Returning to the company, they encountered [[Leoden Garande]] who appeared shocked to see them together, dating. Meriell learned that the two actually were very close, almost forming a brotherly bond. It made her quite happy and she understood immediately why the two of them got together; for the exact same reasons why she got along with both of them. The Ala Mhigan appeared completely taken aback at the knowledge of them forming a couple, but when he saw how happy it made his friend, his worries were settled. Soon after [[Sini'to Shadar]] joined in on the conversation, and they all agreed to go see the fireworks again. Thinking that [[Shin Nelhah]] would have some for them to fire into the sky, she ran to her lab to fetch her or the fireworks but instead got locked, forgetting that the doors were one sided. Grumbling and stuck, she did notice some snacks left for her together with a plush toy and a note, telling her to eat the snacks and just relax for a few hours until the Miqo'te's return. Having no choice, she settled herself in the lab for the rest of the day, awaiting her friend's return. Eating all the snacks and having nothing else to do apart from waiting for [[Shin Nelhah]] she got bored and decided to make her brilliant escape. She climbed out a tight window which was located behind a giant boiler, a fact few people knew. She made her way around the house to re-enter from the main entrance, only to find her friends standing there. [[Thorir Ryder]], [[Leoden Garange]] and an unidentified Viera woman. Approaching them she learned that the Viera was in fact the woman whom [[Leoden Garande]] had fallen head over heels for, which sparked a multitude of questions to the woman, who was named [[Lynn Shiri]]. While the two men walked off to talk, Meriell would bombard the lady with questions about her homeland, quickly identifying her as another foreigner.
During the talk, they learned that something had been bothering [[Leoden Garande]] greatly, and [[Thorir Ryder]] seemed the one most knowledgeable about the reason, clearly trying to talk the man down. At first listening from afar and trying to make out what was going on, a second Viera woman named [[Rene Skathi]] joined in on the conversation, clearly evident that she was a close friend, or rival, of [[Leoden Garande]]. Among all the talking, she truly learned nothing at all apart from the spunky personality the Viera sported. Tired, and unable to keep up with the conversation, she excused herself, [[Thorir Ryder]] joining her for the night.

Time went by and a few days later Meriell ran into [[Leoden Garande]] at the headquarters, soaking wet after a storm. Remembering all too well her own sickness after getting wet outside, she stubbornly dragged him off to her room to dry him Once there, she had him sit on the couch while she gave him a couple towels to dry himself off, at the same time she sat herself on the floor, drying his feet for him on her lap. The two talked about many things, among others his interest in sewing and making garments as well as his leatherwork. Impressed, Meriell expressed great interest in the sewing, telling him that he could make her dresses. He appeared put under pressure with the fact that he could make things for his friends, but he didn't reject the idea.
The friendly banter took a big turn when Meriell accidentally mentioned his state from a few days prior but [[Leoden Garande]] explained the reasons behind his mood calmly to her. Seeing the full picture, she finally understood his reasons as well as his concerns. It was then that [[Thorir Ryder]] walked in on them. While [[Leoden Garande]] appeared worried, Meriell was her usual self, ecstatic to see her partner. [[Thorir Ryder]] did not seem to misunderstand anything and the three of them engaged in further conversation. She informed her partner that [[Leoden Garande]] was making clothings, so [[Thorir Ryder]] asked if he could make wedding dresses. It shocked Meriell completely, but luckily [[Leoden Garande]] immediately declined, not feeling up to par to fulfill such tall order. Meriell urged [[Leoden Garande]] to ask [[Lynn Shri]] on a date, but he was far too shy. That was when [[Thorir Ryder]] mentioned that he too had tried to go out with the Viera but he got rejected. The news hit Meriell hard for some reason. She never knew she could feel that way, a sensation she had never experienced before: jealousy. Unable to deal with the unknown emotion, she excused herself, leaving both men in her room as she went to get some much needed air outside.
She returned after a good few hours, finding [[Thorir Ryder]] awaiting for her in her room. They talked a bit, and she apologized for her immature behaviour, feeling like it was out of place and inappropriate at the time. Not bearing any ill will towards her, he saw no reason for her to apologize, and instead, he invited her out to show her a place. She gladly agreed and they changed wards in the Goblet and walked until they reached a small house. Once inside she learned from him that [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] had lent them the house during her absence, the only thing she wanted in return was to make sure no one robbed it. While the offer didn't seem very fair, [[Thorir Ryder]] reassured her that it was alright. having no choice but to accept she agreed on the condition that she could later thank the Miqo'te personally. They explored the house and came upon a tub at the upper floor where they both decided to take a bath. It was there that somehow the talk of marriage came up, and he teased her about the wedding dress talk from earlier, asking that if he had asked her back then, if she would have accepted a marriage proposal. Dumbfounded and shy, she at first denied it but after further teasing, she gave in, admitting that she would've said yes. During their intimacy, he asked her about contraception and she confirmed that she had received assistance from [[Shin Nelhah]] regarding that, not wanting to get pregnant so soon and also wanting him not to worry about it. However, a few minutes after, he asked her what she would think if he had asked her to stop taking contraception from the female Keeper. She had nothing against it but under the condition that he made her an honest woman. This sparked conversations whether to follow Doman traditions or Eorzean. The topic was dropped however for another day.

The talk came much sooner than expected, the very next day. Back at headquarters, they met in her room and the conversation came up instantly. [[Thorir Ryder]] asked her what her answer to yesterday's talk. Confused she asked if he was referring to the children or marriage, to which he replied that both. Although worried of getting rejected she said she would agree but only under the condition that they wed. The news hit the Doman hard and he collapsed in her arms. Sheer panic overcame her as she started to call for help while holding her unconscious partner in her arms on the ground, calling frantically for [[Leoden Garande]] and [[Shin Nelhah]]. Luckily, the man came to rather quickly and upon waking up, he asked her straight up if she'd marry him. Thrilled, she immediately agreed as he gave her a ring which was a family heirloom. That was when [[Leoden Garande]] walked in on them, having arrived after hearing her screams of help prior. The moment got awkward and odd as they just stared at each other, before Meriell exclaimed that [[Thorir Ryder]] had asked for her hand in marriage. It got even more awkward by the minute as the Ala Mhigan didn't seem to understand the scenario or what was going on, deciding to take his leave, noticing the air getting heavier in the room. Still quite stupefied, the couple recollected themselves, only then the reality hitting home. It was a moment of utter happiness for Meriell.

Days went by and Meriell would go about her daily duties, tending to the restaurant as well as taking care of her private matters, feeling like she was invincible and could take on the entire world. She visited [[Leoden Garande]] quite often the moment she found out he moved in to the room next door, absolutely thrilled at the news. The two, always getting along, didn’t change at all as they would talk for hours about [[Leoden Garande]]’s hobbies and interests. She was really into his new found hobby of sewing and he offered to make her something which brought her great joy.

Finally she got the opportunity to visit [[Ihrih Nhoyo]], wanting to thank her for lending the house. She had never spoken to the woman and at first was on very official terms with her, but as the conversation went on, she would relax and be her usual friendly self. Using the opportunity, she also asked if the Miqo’te could make her a katana as she was still using the one from [[Thorir Ryder]] and he had told her to visit the woman and ask her as she was an accomplished blacksmith. She agreed but only after giving birth as the woman was pregnant for at least four months. Meriell would never pressurize and agreed, not being in any particular hurry. The two sat to some tea and talked some more, but Meriell felt extremely uncomfortable as the woman would make some vulgar comments and then poke and prod at intimate details, including asking her if she had any plans with her husband to be; Meriell assuming the woman was referring to building a family. It wasn’t a topic Meriell ever wished mentioned or discussed so she took her leave as quickly as she could, while still being cordial.
[[File:Leodenandmell.png|600px|right|]]
Back in the main hallways of the estate, she sat herself by the bar area with a glass of water in hand, thinking, having doubts. Was her life truly headed the right way? Setting aside the inappropriate comments from the Miqo’te, she noticed the toll that pregnancy had over the woman. It wasn’t a simple matter and doubts started to arise in her mind, wondering if things were perhaps going too quickly. She was still young, and not too certain if she wanted to immediately start building a family with [[Thorir Ryder]]. Guilt came over her, wondering if she was maybe too fast with the entire relationship, although to her it felt right. Was she going to have children immediately after they were wed? Would she live up to the standards of his noble family life? Would his family even accept her? The bar was set high and she was starting to feel the heat badly. The cheerful girl getting rather depressed as she pondered her life. It was like looking back in time to when she had been engaged to [[Ririan Ruruan]] whom she still missed dearly. It then hit her, thinking if to her [[Thorir Ryder]] was perhaps nothing more but a substitute, a much needed distraction. She couldn't make out her thoughts at all, all she knew was that she felt extremely bad and she wanted the feeling the end; a sensation she wasn't accustomed to. That was when [[Leoden Garande]] spotted her and approached her, calling her name. Startled and snapping back from her state, she fell off her stool but he was quick to help her right back up, clearly worried for her well-being. She didn’t seem her usual self and would avoid his gaze, as well as talking about her problem. Her eyes would begin to water as she kept it all bottled up inside and he decided to take her back to his room to talk in privacy, locking the door behind them. In his room, she still didn’t manage to open up to him, not wanting to put her troubles on her dearest friend and also not wanting to discuss her private matters, she did however mention [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] which set the Hyur off instantly. She wasn’t aware that he had some history with the Miqo’te but it set in motions the following events at lighting speed. [[Thorir Ryder]] knocked on the door and the man let him in. Meriell avoided any talks, forcing her usual cheerful personality but then [[Leoden Garande]] called out [[Thorir Ryder]], calling him blind and oblivious to the facts around him. Meriell understood that the man was referring no doubt to the Miqo’te woman; and while she was the trigger for her state, she wasn’t the reason for it. The entire situation snowballed and exploded as the two man exchanged heated words, with Meriell right in the middle. She begged [[Leoden Garande]] to calm down and just let the topic die off but he did not back down, intent on resolving the matter right there and then. [[Thorir Ryder]], unable to take any more of it, left the room, leaving the two Hyurs. Meriell had never seen the gentle man ever get so heated and aggressive, shocking her to the core, but she adored him regardless. She approached him, wanting to calm him down; offering her thanks for him trying to take her side and defend her. Wanting to ease the tensions, she reminded him of a promise he had made to her, wanting to take her to one of his favourite fishing spots. He appeared to appreciate her words but he avoided any interaction, not wanting her to get in trouble for spending time with him and said it wasn’t a good idea. With a stern voice, she proclaimed that if her husband-to-be could not accept her friends, then she would rather have no husband. Leaving the room, she commented with a small tease that she never thought of him to be someone who would break promises, expecting him to come through.

Returning to her room next door, she just felt like breaking down, but she had no time as [[Thorir Ryder]] had been awaiting her arrival. Exhausted and drained, she sat herself on the floor beside him as he was on the couch, placing her head in his lap as she just closed her eye and relaxed. He questioned the explosion form [[Leoden Garande]] and Meriell was quick to try to soften the situation, not wanting the two friends bickering or her being the reason for it. She already felt enough guilt as it was, and she didn’t want more, intent on speaking to [[Leoden Garande]] the next day to clarify things. [[Thorir Ryder]] let her do as she pleased, not wanting to interfere in her decisions. The issue was set aside completely and he decided to invite her to an outing the next day, to which she agreed.

The trip was put on hold by her fiancee, so Meriell decided to pay a visit to [[Leoden Garande]] to check up on him after the fight from the day before as well as to clarify things, hopefully softening the situation. He greeted her gladly and the two talked some more about his garment making, him confessing to making her a bandana which was inspired by her antics from a couple days ago when she had assaulted his crate of materials and had draped them all over herself. While talking, she spotted that one of the pillars on his room was damaged and recently cleaned, asking him about it. He admitted that after the fight the other day, unable to contain his anger, he let it out by punching it. Definitely not thrilled, she felt the guilt rising again and apologized for even getting him involved. The conversation took a nose dive as she confessed to him part of her worries and concerns, all of them related to the future which she couldn't escape facing. He couldn't help much as he himself was new on the topic but he supported her wholeheartedly. As they sat together, they talked some more, Meriell touching base on his relationship with [[Lynn Shiri]]. She was truly thrilled for her friend to be happy but amidst the talking, they both confessed to having feelings for on another, feelings that were already apparent early on before she had even met [[Thorir Ryder]]. Both being in relationships and committed, they agreed that it would be folly to do something brash, and they agreed to remain as close friends as they were so far; while it pained her to know that they both bore feelings to one another, the guilt didn't help either. They moved off the topic, both not wanting to dig deeper into it as it was rather unpleasant and heart-wrecking; Meriell mentioning that [[Thorir Ryder]] was planning to take her to Kugane, and she asked him if he wanted anything from the far land. He seemed a bit worried about her being taken far away but he replied stating he wanted nothing but her safe return. The mention of her husband-to-be brought up an entirely new topic, which were [[Leoden Garande]]'s doubts towards the man which arose after having and discussion with him over [[Ihrih Nhoyo]]. Ideas and comments were thrown and discussed and it made Meriell question a few more things but she wasn't off-put by the Miqo'te woman, wanting to give her a chance despite the inappropriate questions which were addressed by her when she visited her. To change topic, [[Leoden Garande]] quickly went back to his workstation and finished the bandana for her, gifting it to her with his name stitched on the inside to remember it was a gift from him. Ecstatic, she immediately started to wear it, stating she'd never take it off. Somewhere in the glee, she smashed her forehead against the table, quickly forced to take off the bandana and instead press a cloth with ice to her forehead. The visit finished on the most friendliest of terms, their close bond never seeming to break as Meriell would look forward to the trip to Kugane with [[Thorir Ryder]].

Sitting in the hallways, she ran into [[Thorir Ryder]] who took her on a small outing to Camp Bronzelake to show her the hot springs as well as wanting to spend some quality time with her. She was quite pleased as she had never been at hot springs and the two would proceed to talk about their future together. Still having doubts and worries, she mean to address her concerns to him but she found out it wasn't needed, as while talking, he set all her worries at ease. Overjoyed, she simply indulged in his company as they proceeded to plan their trip to the Far East. Apparently it was to last a good couple days, so Meriell visited [[Leoden Garande]] one last time to bid farewell. Before she left, he offered her a linkshell to keep in touch.
</spoiler>

'''Discovering the Far East''' (19)

<spoiler>
Meriell and [[Thorir Ryder]] arrived the next day via his teleportation at the port of Kugane. The girl was absolutely stunned at the beauty of the place, unable to focus on a single thing as she'd run around all over. Exhausted from teleportation, [[Thorir Ryder]] proposed they go eat and he took her to a nearby restaurant where she could try the regional specialties. The two engaged in conversation, talking about the place, as well as complimenting the food as they tried many things. Meriell stuffed herself to the brim and they resumed their walk afterwards, as he showed her from a tall bridge the gorgeous view of the entire city and port. She was stunned and adored every bit of it, taking in the sights at every step. She was able to observe the sunset from the bridge and it was a view she'd never forget as it disappeared over the horizon, where her beloved Eorzea was. Deciding to settle their bags, they went next to the inn in Kugane and left their bags at the establishment, also taking the chance to change as she felt she stood out far too much in the crowds and feared getting pick-pocketed. After changing and resting up a bit, they went over to the hot springs which the city offered and decided to take it easy for the rest of the day. That was when she learned more about his past and history; learning that he had indeed killed his own father in a duel to the death to become head of the family.
[[File:Thinkingofhome.png|600px|right|]]
In the evening, they decided to hit the market area. Meriell was absolutely amazed at the amount of wares as well as how different they were to the ones back at home. She ran from stall to stall, engaging in conversation with all the merchants, wanting to know all the little details. They did purchase a couple things and decided to retreat for the night. As her fiancee fell asleep, she found herself much too excited to even feel tired and decided to take a walk around the city at night to see the sights herself again. Settling herself under a tree in a more secluded area, she played around with the linkpearl [[Leoden Garande]] had given her, and she actually activated, immediately catching him off guard as the two started to converse. He appeared distraught, admitting to her that [[Lynn Shiri]] had departed on another mission and he wasn't certain if she would come back, leaving him all alone. Meriell had no idea what to say, but she felt deeply for her friend and she would try to divert his attention with different topics. Among them however, she did touch the fact that [[Thorir Ryder]] was really intent on having an heir and it pulled at [[Leoden Garande]]'s heart to hear that, however, he let her do as she saw best, which didn't really help her with her feelings. She admitted that she missed his company already and that she was looking forward to seeing him again the moment she got back to Eorzea. After closing the call, she returned to the inn for the night, looking to the stars all the time as she walked, thinking.

The next day, after a big breakfast, [[Thorir Ryder]] took her to Shirogane which was the residential area of Kugane. It was different from anything she had ever seen and she took in all the sights, including fireworks as it seemed they also celebrated the Moonfire Faire there. They had t climb multiple sets of stairs to get from one area to another, and it actually tired her quickly, needing to take breaks every now and then, luckily he did not seem to mind and helped her. Rain came pouring down and they found shelter in a small shack built on the beach to rest in, where they talked about their upcoming wedding as well as their plans to settle. To her relief, he wanted to stay in Eorzea, meaning she did not have to say goodbye to anyone, but the mention of coming to Kugane more often came up, with the proposition of even going there for a few months a year, an idea which she wasn't opposed to. They started playing around the beach, chasing each other, but Meriell found herself unable to keep up, being out of breath quickly and it worried him but she blamed it on her large breakfast that day. Before leaving Shirogane, she requested they get some shaved ice, which they did; he one and she two. She ate them quickly, which prompted questions but they were tossed aside. Returning to Shirogane, they went to eat some dumplings and she devoured those too within a few minutes from each other. Now really concerned [[Thorir Ryder]] confronted her, asking and telling her that she had been eating quite a lot ever since they had arrived to Kugane and that while she appeared healthy, she was clearly struggling with more physical actions like climbing a set of stairs. She denied it, still blaming other things but he then told her that she might be with child. It froze her to the core, debating whether he was right or not. It took her a moment to snap back to reality and when she did she tried to brush it off with humour, however, he had a very valid point. He suggested having her tested but neither were ware of method, so he suggested checking in with [[Shin Nelhah]] which terrified her. Meriell immediately rejected the idea, fearing the Miqo'te's retaliation at the knowledge of a possible pregnancy. Meriell decided to simply wait, as time would tell. Having no other choice, [[Thorir Ryder]] agreed. They continued their trip as he took her to a few more food stalls where she could enjoy the local specialties, her hunger clearly not sated. Walking more, the would get winded quickly when climbing stairs but it did not stop her as they managed to hit up a few more stalls but her stomachache didn’t relent and he requested that she visits a doctor the next day. To set his worries at ease, she agreed. They returned to Shirogane to spend the rest of the day at the beach, fooling around in the water and having fun over the sand. It was there that Meriell told him a bit more about her family, which was upon his request. However, she was adamant about not seeing her father, but the rest of the family would definitely be thrilled at the news of their engagement.
Later on that evening, she called [[Leoden Garande]] again to update him on her trip, as well as to hear about his own day. He seemed to be still down about the events from a few days ago and she would try to lift his spirits with her cheerful nature. While talking, she did mention her stomach aches and she added that [[Thorir Ryder]] suspected it was the beginning of her pregnancy, something which worried [[Leoden Garande]] greatly. She calmed him however saying that she had a doctor appointment for the next day and that most likely it was nothing at all. Reluctant but not wanting to move deeper into the topic, he dropped it and the two just chatted some more before turning in for the night.

Early morning, while [[Thorir Ryder]] was sleeping, she headed to the main square of Kugane to seek out a doctor and she easily found one, accepted immediately into their office. The doctor checked her and she did mention to him what she and her fiancée suspected but nothing was conclusive. Unable to pin point anything at the time, the doctor prescribed her some painkillers in the form of powder, which was water soluble, to take after every meal for a week. The news wasn’t great or bad, simply nothing was determined which left her a bit worried but she decided not to overthink it and just enjoy her holiday. She ate a bun at the town square for breakfast while also taking her medicine and that was when [[Thorir Ryder]] found her. He noticed the bag with the powder and asked her about her morning and she admitted to having visited a doctor and told him of the results. Most likely she simply overate and was anxious from the trip and prospect of pregnancy, which induced her pains. Seeing that she was doing better, he proposed to show her a part of Doma, however warned her that it wasn’t the friendliest of places and asked if she had her bow with her, as well as more comfortable clothes. Luckily, she always had her bow with her as it was one of her most prized possessions. She returned to their inn and quickly assembled her Maelstrom bow, as well as getting changed into more suitable clothing, later on meeting up with him by the Aetheryte plaza. [[Thorir Ryder]] then teleported them to Yanxia, in an underground bunker it seemed. She had never seen something of the sort and he explained that the tunnels were built during the occupation of the Garleans, to help with fending them off as well as protection. She looked around the caves for a moment but they soon exited to the outside, being greeted with a wilder part of the area as vast plains of greenery covered the horizon as well as tall mountains and cliff sides. The area was littered with tigers and other predators, putting her a bit on edge and she walked with her bow out almost at all times, ready to shoot to kill if needed. They reached the waterside and crossed it over the shallow waters, going towards a manor in the distance as they inspected it; also witnessing grand sculptures embedded into the side of a mountain which were carved by hand years ago. It was a completely different world and it fascinated her, at each turn something new to discover. He also showed her one of the Doman settlements, or at least what was left of it. She had never expected it to have been that bad and it left her with lingering feelings of sadness as she witnessed the devastation. Not a single building was left untouched, the streets damaged and the buildings crumbling to dust with monsters running amok. It was very sobering. Being fascinated with the culture, it dawned on her as to how close the Domans were to loosing said culture and identity, but she was glad that they did survive and managed so thrive eventually, [[Thorir Ryder]] being living proof of such cases. Should have the Garleans truly eradicated them, most likely he wouldn’t have been standing at her side, and it was eye-opening. Moving away from the settlement, he took her to a small pier where they were taken to the Doman Enclave, a place where Domans could rebuild their lives and culture after the desolation. The place was much closer to what she had imagined I her mind when reading about Doma, the houses, while still under construction, had a distinct appearance and the shops which littered the streets were very different from those back in Kugane, although some wares were similar, showing the connection between both places. They walked around the enclave, mingling and enjoying the little things before stopping at a pagoda to take a rest. It was there that [[Thorir Ryder]] confessed that he was contemplating about purchasing an apartment in Shirogane. She had not expected such news but she wasn’t going to oppose his wishes or tell him specifically what to do, as it was, after all, his money. He told her that they were to be wed and thus her opinion mattered but she insisted that she wasn’t going to meddle into his finances. They consulted a bit about the apartment, which also would serve as their official home, as well as a place for them to stay at whenever visiting Kugane instead of having to retire to inns each time, offering some stability. It was a sound idea and she was all for it. Intent on settling the matter, they returned to Shirogane and [[Thorir Ryder]] immediately went to take care of the apartment matter, letting her take care of procuring some food for them in the meantime. She found a couple food stalls at the port to Shirogane and purchased various traditional foods for them before meeting up again next to some hot springs they had discovered in the area. Relaxing there and while eating, they talked about the day as well as exchanging views on their trip to Yanxia and various other matters, including her stomach pains. She was adamant that it was nothing important, while he still had his doubts. Off topic, she asked him how much longer were they to stay in Kugane, and it was decided to stay longer to take care of the new apartment as well as to get used to the place. Afterwards, the two retired to the new apartment. Meriell was surprised at how it looked: expensive. It was something she still hadn’t fully adjusted to and it took some time to feel at ease at the place. He comforted her, stating that whatever he had what hers and that she was to feel there like at home, as it was their home together. She inspected the apartment, noting the kitchen, where she’d gladly spend a good part of her day, instructing him teasingly that it was her territory. They exchanged a few sweet words before turning in for a night of sleep at their new place.

In the middle of the night, she went outside to catch some much needed air, enjoying the salty breeze. She then called [[Leoden Garande]] via linkpearl as per usual. First of all she calmed his worries about a possible pregnancy before updating him on her adventures of the day. He seemed still rather skeptical about the entire thing but hearing her as cheerful as always, he let it slide. He touched base on the topic of her fiancee, worried if the man was truly well-suited for her, concerned that perhaps everything was happening too quickly, but she was adamant about her decisions. The further the conversation went, the seeds of doubt returned to haunt her. She questioned everything for a moment, wondering where her life was headed, fully aware that [[Leoden Garande]] also harbored feelings for her. The confusion drove her mad, unable to handle her feelings and thoughts before breaking down for a brief moment. She had never been exposed to such a situation and it was not a pleasant experience. He managed to calm her down, stating that if [[Thorir Ryder]] truly loved her, then she had nothing to fear; and she knew that he did, thus, calming her worries. Conflicted, she decided to return to bed and to her fiancee.

[[Thorir Ryder]] finished furnishing the entire apartment and they spent the day arranging everything, planning to visit the Ruby Sea the following day. The next day, the indeed visited the Ruby Sea, both armed with their weapons in case if they were needed as some areas were still hostile. They visited Sui-no-Sato first, followed my Tamamizu. Meriell was thrilled at the magic of the place, being able to breathe in a large bubble of air underwater, while being able to see all the fish swim over them. It was a surreal experience and she enjoyed every bit of it, collecting seashells at the bottom of the sea. The couple exchanged some sweet words and interactions before returning back to shore and finally to Shirogane, slowly getting ready for their departure. Meriell made sure to pack them up and clean the place so it would be ready for their next trip, but she was still excited to return home to the Goblet. On the day of their return, [[Thorir Ryder]] took some time off to meditate beforehand so he would have enough energy to teleport such a long distance. Once he was prepared, they finally left the Far East, to arrive back at the Goblet.
</spoiler>

'''The Turning Tide''' (19)

<spoiler>
Back at the Respite, Meriell finally unpacked her bags and prepped the gifts for all of her friends, however, the house seemed deserted. Together with [[Thorir Ryder]] they went downstairs to the restaurant area to grab a bite when two new faces appeared; a Lalafell named [[Lillily Lilly]] and an Au Ra [[Jochi Ejinn]]. They had never seen them before and thus Meriell decided to introduce herself to them. She took an immediate liking to the Lalafell but the Au Ra did not seem to be eager to talk, or better said, he was new to Eorzea and appeared to have language issues. Slowly but surely, more people joined on the meet and greet, and Meriell got to finally meet all the people from the establishment. [[Leoden Garande]] appeared too, and she wanted nothing more than to hug him but she restrained herself, not wanting to instigate some fight or conflict between him and her fiancee. During the conversation, she started feeling not very well and left the house to catch some air. When she returned, she spotted both of them talking in the hallways so she hid behind a potted plant to eavesdrop on the conversation. It was clear that their relationship was strained and it wasn't working out. Once [[Leoden Garande]] left, she revealed herself to [[Thorir Ryder]] who took her outside to talk. He was confused about the entire feud between his friend and himself and he wanted to fix it no matter what. Meriell proposed that they push it to another day as they had just returned from the East but he was adamant about tackling the issue immediately. Not too willing but not going to refuse him, she agreed and they both returned to the Respite to talk to [[Leoden Garande]]. They found him in his room, and they both joined him at the table. The conversation was relatively calm, but Meriell did not feel like being there. It felt almost like a punishment, having to sit between two of her favourite men, listening to them bickering. Luckily the conversation was short but they did come to an agreement and they shook hands to seal the deal. Relieve, she could finally relax, knowing that the friendship hasn't ended. It was then that [[Leoden Garande]] presented to her the garments the had been working on for her during her vacation.Absolutely thrilled, she immediately tried them on, treasuring them for life.

The next evening, a big event was planned at the respite: maid evening! Meriell immediately took up her mantle as a waitress and dressed up for the event, tending to the tables and guests downstairs. [[Thorir Ryder]] took care of security with [[Rumia Scarlet]], and as staff it was Meriell together with [[Borgaeir Seaborne]]. The night was chaotic as they found out there was no cook so Meriell quickly covered for the kitchen with [[Borgaeir Seaborne]]’s help. The two clicked well as they worked together and even got to have some fun that evening. She met some of the guests like [[Tiamos Loren]] and then she met a lady who was a fellow dancer. Once the night quieted down, the two took the center stage and danced together to entertain the guests. An old member of the Respite had joined them in catering, [[Kathir Ragewind]]. She had never met him before but he gladly assisted with the bar area, which was a load off Meriell’s shoulders. Exhausted after the tiring and demanding day, Meriell finally retreated to her room with [[Thorir Ryder]].

Days went by and a nice routine followed, days filled joy and glee as talks of her wedding would begin, planning the event and the entire ceremony with her fiancée [[Thorir Ryder]]. As things calmed down, she visited [[Leoden Garande]] to finally give him his gift which she had brought from the East. It was a small music box, as she wanted it to fill the room with music as he often just sat their quietly and all alone. He seemed to really enjoy it and it made her happy. During the visit, they talked about his relationship with [[Lynn Shiri]] as he seemed even more troubled as she had again departed somewhere and refused to accept any assistance from him, making him feel worse and useless. She comforted him as best as she could, asking him to voice his concerns to the Viera. Wanting to cheer him up, she reminded him of the trip he had promised her and they agreed to go to the fishing area the next day Plans changed however the next day. Meriell ran again into [[Kathir Ragewind]]. The intimidating Hrothgar immediately won her trust and friendship with his kind demeanor. She learned that many liked to spar with him and so she took him on too. It was evident that she was going to lose, and she did in the most embarrassing way. [[Thorir Ryder]] then appeared and decided to also get some practice in with the Hrothgar while Meriell tended to herself, pain all over her body as she got treated like a rag doll. Her fiancée lost after again his arms started to shake, but she opted not to intrude and allowed his friend to assist him, although it always hurt her to see him in pain. It was then that [[Lynn Shiri]] came downstairs together with [[Leoden Garande]], proposing that they all go to Costa del Sol for some much needed relaxation. They all agreed and with the help of [[Kathir Ragewind]] teleported there. Once there, they all had fun and played on the beach as well as in the waters of La Noscea, all bonding and getting to know each other better. Everyone apart from [[Leoden Garande]] who seemed depressed and in his own world. While worried, she let [[Lynn Shiri]] take care of him.

Morning came and Meriell immediately visited [[Leoden Garande]], intent on getting him out of the house and to talk with him in peace about his state from the day before. He took her to Eastern Thanalan where he finally showed her his fishing spot. While being a very good fisher herself, she let him indulge as she would only observe, and talk. They touched base on his doubts about his relationship and she offered whatever advice possible. It was evident that many things were eating at him and she was unable to help much, but she let him know that she’d always be there for him should he ever need help. Among the talk, Meriell confessed that due to her marriage looming closer and closer, she did not know how much time she'd still possess to give him, aware that most of her moments would be dedicated to another. It hit him hard and he refused to just let her go, upsetting him greatly. Sensing this fear, she wanted to comfort him, although aware that little could be done. It is then that she considered the unthinkable and she asked him gently if he wanted an affair. He was unable to reply and she was aware that her proposition was uncalled for and absolutely cruel to even consider and she backed down, telling him to forget about it, feeling ashamed for even considering such an option. As she turned away, mind returning to the fishing, she was brought back to the topic as he moved and immediately kissed her. Her mind and heart raced immensely at the flood of feelings being poured out through the kiss, their very first kiss and clear sign of their feelings for each other. She returned it eagerly, hands wrapping around this man whom she adored. However, neither of them uncertain as to what this would mean going forward, they both agreed that they had to take it slow and careful, knowing that this coming to light could do much to hurt those they were already connected to. As they talked, they had come to nearly forget about the fishing part, but when it came back around to discussing it, Leoden joked about getting "the best haul of his life", which alleviated the mood and got them both laughing merrily before they finally returned to the Respite. There, they ran into [[Ihrih Nhoyo]] together with [[Kathir Ragewind]]. The woman immediately left them as she got sick, most likely due to her pregnancy, leaving the Hrothgar with the duo. Intent to win, Meriell challenged him yet once more, and lost even worse than last time as she took his sheath to the head, knocking her out cold. Everyone worried for her but she was fine, if only dazed and annoyed at her loss. She ate a hearty meal with the group before decided to retreat for a much needed rest.

Come early morning, she received a letter from home, which caught her by surprise as it wasn’t from her brother but her mother. Opening it, she found out that her father had passed away. Absolutely baffled and unable to act, she immediately left the house to clear her head, unknowing as to what to do, she ended up passing by the center of the Goblet where she bought some food. While it wasn't required, she just felt she required to keep her mind occupied. That was when she spotted a body floating in the water. She threw everything aside and jumped in to save the man but then found out it was [[Jochi Ejinn]]. He almost drowned her in the chaos but they finally both left the water and he clarified in his basic and broken Eorzean that he wasn't drowning but meditating. That was when another Au Ra joined them named [[Olzii....]] who explained further as he was much more fluent. The two were clearly friends or related in some way or another. The man invited Meriell to have a drink with them and they easily found some seats by the water, both Au Ra having a good laugh at her for trying to save [[Jochi Ejinn]]. The paler commented on her cheery disposition, stating it was outright creepy which hit her hard and she remained silent for most of the exchange Among the talk, she remembered having lost all of her items which she had bought in the water. Silently, [[Jochi Ejinn]] went to retrieve her things, giving them back to her. It definitely made her day as she thanked him, selecting through the items what was salvageable and what was meant to be tossed aside. They continued talking when a third Au Ra joined them, a woman from the Malguld clan. The talk got heated but finally everyone settled down, while the two Raen talked, Meriell would observe [[Jochi Ejinn]] as he would do some mesmerizing things with the water in the basin. Finally Meriell left them as she decided to return to the Respite as the hour was late. Walking back alone with her items in a bag, it was then that the realization of losing her father hit her and she broke down. Settled in a corner of the streets of the Goblet, she wept, not wanting to show herself in such state to anyone so she let it all out before returning. She took out the wet letter from her mother from her pocket, carefully unfolding it to look at it again, sobbing. A funeral was to take place, and she was requested to attend.
[[File:Pregnancy.png|500px|left|]]
She informed [[Thorir Ryder]] of the events the next day and he did everything in his might to comfort her and to get her distracted. They discussed details as to how to honour the death of her father as well as what was tradition in Lominsan burials. He suggested her to write a letter for her father and to have it buried together with him. While not traditional, she wasn’t opposed to it and agreed. He would ask her a bit about her past as well as about her relationship with her father. She explained that while she had good relations with him, it got strained the moment she left the Maelstrom and after that he had stopped acknowledging her. She still loved her father regardless of what he thought of her and she wanted to honour his death. Meriell decided to bring her old Maelstrom uniform, assuming it would’ve pleased her father to see her one last time in it and she tried it on to make sure she still fit. Luckily she did, although a bit tight in some spots. The couple decided to go out for a walk around the Goblet, which also served for her to test out the uniform further, and to her relief, it survived the test ride. They stopped by one of the cliff views of the Goblet where [[Thorir Ryder]] teased her some more as per usual, but it worked in her favour as it still kept her distracted and let her forget the entire family tragedy. After some horrible teasing and a touching intimate moment, the two relaxed on a bench as night-time fell upon them, observing the stars together. He commented on the amount of stars, asking how many she thought were up there, to which she replied that she believed there was a star for each person alive. The idea surprised him but even more so when she then said that soon, one more star would grace the sky. Uncertain if he understood what she meant, but kissed her cheek lovingly while she drifted off to sleep. Morning came and a new day with it. Meriell joined a group of people in the restaurant area as they conversed, among them [[Sinito Shadar]], [[Kathir Ragewind]] and [[Rumia Scarlet]], and [[Thorir Ryder]] joining them shortly. The talk was casual but when it touched the topic of family and she left them to calm her nerves, with her fiancee following suite. Once she calmed down, she returned to the group, apologizing for leaving them. After conversing for a good few hours, she excused herself and asked [[Thorir Ryder]] to join her outside. It was then that she told him point-blank that she was pregnant and the news hit him hard, although he was clearly ecstatic and overjoyed. He had asked her since when she had known and she admitted that the doctor back in Kugane had confirmed it, she merely hid it. He bore no ill-will towards her and shared the happy moment with her.

The day after, Meriell visited [[Leoden Garande]] to inform him that she was departing for Limsa Lominsa for the funeral for her father. He was genuinely shocked but offered her a shoulder to cry on as the two talked. While talking, a few heartfelt words were exchanged and one thing led to another as they ended consummating their relationship in his room. She always saw in him a dear friend, one whom she could always depend on, as well as someone whom she loved with her entire being. While he was new to such intimacy, she took the lead, making sure to be gentle and to treasure the moment they shared, unaware of when they could ever again be this close as their lives were being pulled in opposite directions. Despite the lingering guilt of cheating on her fiancee, she couldn't help but admit that it all felt right, wanting to remain in [[Leoden Garande]]'s embrace. It was a different kind of love all-together. [[Thorir Ryder]] was the aggressive and possessive type, wanting to settle down immediately and start a family with her, while [[Leoden Garande]] was soft, tender and loving... She cried in his arms, not wanting the moment to end and to return to the grim reality, but both being promised to another, they remained silent about their intimacy and with a pained heart, Meriell left him to head to La Noscea, encountering [[Thorir Ryder]] in the hallways as he awaited her with their packed bags. The two journeyed to Aleport, Meriell's hometown. They decided to deposit their bags first and have a tour of the area, however he didn't feel too well so he went to rest early on. Having time on her hands, she called [[Leoden Garande]] via linkshell to inform him of her safe arrival but to her surprised, he sounded rather alarmed and in a certain panic. That triggered a new conversation as Meriell met indirectly [[Helga Mistwaker]] as the woman spoke to her via the device, informing her of the deeds of her husband to be towards her. The woman was blind and [[Thorir Ryder]] had forced himself upon the woman in the past not two months ago. The news hit Meriell hard and she refused to listen to any of it, and that was when [[Helga Mistwalker]] and [[Leoden Garande]] teleported to Aleport to comfort her as well as to tell her everything in person. The Highlander woman was kind to her and explained in detail the events of the day where [[Thorir Ryder]] jumped her to make out with her out of the blue; and it was something Meriell could never phantom to happen. She couldn't cope with it, unable to accept it, wanting to just get away from them and all the problems despite [[Leoden Garande]] 's attempts to calm her and his comforting embrace. She ran off towards the lighthouse, settling herself on the edge of the cliff as she looked on to the town as well as Limsa Lominsa in the distance, singing an old sea shanty she had been taught when young:

''♪ "Cruel and cold like winds on the sea... Will you ever return to me..." ♪''

''♪ "Hear my voice sing with the tide... My love will never die..." ♪''

''♪ "Over waves and deep in the blue... I will give up my heart for you..." ♪''

''♪ "Time goes on, I'll wait to go by... My love will never die..." ♪''
[[File:Mellcryingbesideleo.png|500px|right|]]
It was after a while that [[Leoden Garande]] found her, sitting there in tears and emotionless, unable to squeeze out even a single smile. It pained him greatly to see her in such state and he did everything in his power to comfort her, to reassure her. It was then that she admitted to him her pregnancy with [[Thorir Ryder]] and he didn't seem bothered in the least with it, accepting her fully. It touched her and offered some comfort but she requested to remain alone nonetheless to process her thoughts. He obliged, leaving her alone as he departed with [[Helga Mistwalker]]. Left alone, she wept on while still singing her song, memories coming to mind as night fell upon the horizon, but she couldn't bring herself to return to the inn where her fiancee awaited, frightened to confront him knowing what she knew. She was aware that she'd be unable to hide anything from him, and it soured the entire trip further, already as it as meant for a funeral.
At daybreak, she finally gathered enough strength and returned to the inn before her fiancee would wake and got herself ready for the day, exhausted after the entire sleepless night. Clad in pure black garments, she prepped for the funeral which was to take place. As she left the inn, she was quickly taken aback by a gathering of Au Ras by the docks. Curious, she approached the gathering and noticed that they were were all there for some ceremony, and she recognized the shaman among them as [[Jochi Ejinn]]. She observed him perform the ceremony as a woman's body was laid in a boat which was later pushed into the waters and swallowed by the deep waters. As the crowd scattered, she approached the shaman and the two exchanged a few words before they returned to the inn where she had been staying at with [[Thorir Ryder]] and he came by shortly after. At the same time [[Kathir Ragewind]] appeared out of nowhere too but she was intent on having a talk with her fiancee and asked him to come outside with her as they needed to talk. By the docks, she questioned him, demanding answers to his past behaviours and he clearly did not appreciate the interrogation and gave her almost no information at all, only attacking her back with questions. She knew she had no reasons to doubt [[Helga Mistwalker]] as the woman had nothing to gain at all by lying, but not the same could be said about [[Thorir Ryder]] and she was fully aware of it. She did not want to believe any of it, especially the fact that her fiancee was a violent and brash man. And yet it terrified her, the knowledge and possibility that just maybe he could be the same towards her. The talk didn't last long as it went nowhere. Meriell finally stated that she wanted to remain alone for the duration of the funeral, and that she wanted him to return to the Respite, informing that she was intent to continue the discussion with him there, in [[Helga Mistwalker]] 's presence. He merely bowed agreeing and departed, leaving her alone. The solitude was refreshing and yet painful as she sat herself by the docks, weeping anew; only then spotting [[Jochi Ejinn]] but inches away from her, conversing with a local fisherman. She talked with the Au Ra and he asked her as to what was going on, so she explained. The topic changed to exchange opinions on reasons for marriage and he put it so plainly for her, stating that either she loved the man and was willing to marry, or not. Once he left, she still sat there, thinking on his words and all the words of advice she had heard from her friends. As she observed the waters, she saw the engagement ring upon her finger and it brought even more tears forth. Pained, she slid the ring off her finger and tucked it into her pocket.
Later on that evening, the funeral took part. She was in no mental state for it and it only added to the dread. As her father would have requested, she dressed herself in her old Maelstrom uniform for the ceremony. Her mother was there, together with her sister Agnes with her husband and two children. Her brother Randal also came despite his travels. She was overjoyed to see him as she adored him, and yet, was unable to express any joy whatsoever that day. The ceremony was carried out on a ship of the coasts of Costa del Sol as her father was given a sea burial; the coffin slid overboard to be engulfed by the sea. In her hand, remained the letter that [[Thorir Ryder]] had told her to write to her father. She couldn't bring herself to lay it inside the coffin, being aware who's idea it was. As the ship returned to Aleport, when disembarking, she tore up the letter in the hands, letting the gales carry the pieces of it away from her. The family gathered for a dinner where they caught up on recent events, all trying to cheer themselves up. She remained silent for most of the evening, trying to cope with the loss of her father as well as the horrible turn her personal relationship took. Without the ring on her finger, none of them asked her of anything and the talks remained joyful.
The next day, she was meant to stay but she decided to take her leave, packing all her things and heading towards the Aetheryte Plaza as she teleported herself back to the Goblet. She immediately attempted to seek out [[Thorir Ryder]] but was unable to find him. She avoided all contact with everyone and retreated to her room, most of the day spent sobbing when suddenly she heard her linkshell ring and it was [[Leoden Garande]], wanting to know how she was doing. She did not want any interactions but then he mentioned that [[Helga Mistwalker]] was with him and that made her leave her room. She found them easily in the hallways and the first thing she did was thank the woman for all the help she had provided. [[Leoden Garande]] immediately asked how how she was doing and Meriell remained distant, definitely not feeling it and struggling to cope with the loss and heartache. She retreated to her room for the evening and soon after he followed her, finding her crying on the couch of her bedroom. She immediately curled up into a ball, not wanting anyone to see her in her current state while crying her heart out, but he sat beside her, comforting her as best as he could. As he talked, she saw his torso starting to light up and she panicked, starting to smash him with a pillow in fear that he was on fire. It took him a moment to realize what she was going on about until he understood that his power desire to protect her was what was fueling his powers, manifesting itself in a brilliant light. Meriell explained that she did not require any saving or protecting but he expressed his concerns over [[Thorir Ryder]] as well as his fear that she might hurt herself in her current state. Touched by his kind words, she cradled herself in his lap, allowing herself that one moment of vulnerability to get all her emotions out. Feeling lonely, she requested him to stay the night with her and he obliged as they both fell asleep in each others embrace.
[[File:Breakup.png|500px|right|]]
Finally, the next day, she found [[Thorir Ryder]]. One side of her was happy to see him, while the other was dreading the discussion looming over them. She was distant, and avoiding him until he finally initiated the talk and she agreed to it. The conversation was amicable and without any raised voices until Meriell lost to her emotions and would start screaming in tears, lost and confused as to what was to happen. She adored the man more than anything, but she could not stand beside him with a clear conscience knowing what he had done in the past. That was when suddenly [[Leoden Garande]] came down the stairs, assisting [[Helga Mistwalker]] at the same time, as they had heard her screams and came to assist. Meriell couldn't even react to their presence as her entire mind was screaming, struggling to cope with the reality of the matter. That was when [[Helga Mistwalker]] confronted [[Thorir Ryder]], and the two had a lively exchange, and the problem was quickly explained, however, not in [[Thorir Ryder]] 's favour. Pained, he fell to the floor crying, begging Meriell not to leave him. While she wanted nothing more than to remain at his side, her values wouldn't have it. She approached him, kneeling before him as she embraced him in her lap, letting him cry as she wold comfort him tenderly; her heart breaking with each sob she heard. With great courage and hurt, she would have him look at her. Using [[Leoden Garande]] 's words, she told her fiancee that her heart no longer beat for him as it used to. [[Thorir Ryder]] broke down and she had no idea what to do or say, fearing that in the heat of the moment, she would just give in to his pleas and return to him. [[Leoden Garande]] then stepped in, telling her to go as he would tend to the broken man. Agreeing, she left the two of them, joining [[Helga Mistwalker]] upstairs and breaking down in her arms. The Highlander comforted the girl and the two exchanged a few tender words when suddenly [[Thorir Ryder]] emerged and took his leave, quickly substituted when [[Leoden Garande]] came over, asking the two woman if everything was in order. Meriell was still doing her best to cope with the entire matter and [[Helga Mistwalker]] would tend to her like a mother to a child. Having enough for the evening, Meriell returned to her room but was shortly joined by [[Leoden Garande]], wanting to make sure she was alright. He informed her that [[Thorir Ryder]] had no intentions of letting her go and that he would fight for her, something with saddened her as she had no desire for anyone to fight for her. All she ever wanted was to simply be happy with another person, not be some trophy.

Time went on, and Meriell found herself in an emotional hole. She hadn't seen [[Thorir Ryder]] for days and it worried her greatly, searching for him but unable to locate him anywhere. During her search, she found [[Kathir Ragewind]] downstairs at the restaurant area playing on the harpsichord. Intrigued and curious, she approached him and he invited her over to sit beside him at the instrument. She immediately took him up on the offer and after analyzing his playing she joined in as her fingers would play the lower tones of the melody. The two talked about their hobbies and interests and Meriell suggested that they should go on a camping trip after learning that the Hrothgar was an outdoors lover. The two decided to go out as they both loved being outside, but were greeted with a violent rainfall. Adamant, they went on until they got lost in the Goblet, but managed to find a more secluded spot to observe the stars. Alas, with the storm brewing, the clouds blocked everything so they merely talked until [[Leoden Garande]] called Meriell over the linkshell, startling her and almost having her plummet down the great chasms in the Goblet were it not for [[Kathir Ragewind]] 's quick reflexes. The Highlander asked her about their whereabouts and quickly located them, joining on the conversation. Nearby, fireworks erupted into the skies as the storm dissipated and the entire group turned to observe them. Meriell would then have immediate flashbacks to her first dates with [[Thorir Ryder]], king her go silent, trying to cope with the painful yet beautiful memories. [[Leoden Garande]] was no fool and he immediately took notice of her distance and dodging words but after she explained that she required time to come to terms with the events, he understood and didn't pressurize her further. [[Kathir Ragewind]] then surprised the two of them as he stated that in the ashes of something dead, new beauty is reborn. With that said, Meriell took her leave, allowing his words of wisdom to set in.

Couple days later, Meriell met [[Leoden Garande]] outside of the Respite as she was practicing her dance routines. Flustered, she fell to the ground as she hadn't caught him looking add he was quick to apologize. They ran into [[Jochi Ejinn]] but he quickly left them after exchanging a few words, and Meriell took the Highlander back to her room. There, she gifted him with a dried red rose, one that she had often worn in her hairs; given to him as a memento for him to remember her should they part, as he had requested a few days prior. It would seem that he had forgotten but he was very happy to received it. The casual talk quickly turned sour as he then informed Meriell that he had spoken to [[Lynn Shiri]] about their entire affair, unable to hide it from her and admitting to her that his heart belonged to Meriell. Apparently the Viera took the news very well, not seeming to show much emotion and staying with both feet firmly on the ground as she fully understood [[Leoden Garande]] 's words and did not blame him for any of it. It did not sit well with him as he broke down crying, almost wanting to have had received a reaction from the woman, any reaction. Meriell comforted him as best she could, although the attempt wasn't the best as in the midst of it all she blamed herself first and foremost, aware that if she had aid nothing all those weeks ago, no one would have ended up hurt. The Highlander was quick to negate her words, refusing to have her take the blame, explaining that if she had not said anything, it all would have come to light eventually. Over time, she would give in, admitting that what was done was done, but she requested to speak to [[Lynn Shiri]] wanting to apologize to her and tell her she was sorry for all she had caused. He did not seem to mind and the two embraced. In said embrace, they both relaxed and took a moment to calm their nerves and emotions as Meriell then asked him if he would have her. He responded to her query with a kiss, stating that it was obvious and that he didn't think it needed to be said. She was overjoyed like never before, immediately jumping on him with a tight hug, kissing him back. She cried tears of happiness as he held her in his arms, knowing that she was finally where she belonged and where she wanted to be. Ecstatic and feeling unbeatable, her playful side kicked in as she decided to race him to the bedroom, where she attacked him with a pillow and the two fooled around for a bit before calling it a day. She went to sleep that night for the first time crying tears of joy.
</spoiler>

'''Risen from the Ashes''' (19-Current)

<spoiler>
Days passed and everything quieted down in the Respite. Meriell went about her daily routine as per usual, however, avoiding social interactions while she went through the motions from the days prior. She could still feel the guilt eating away at her but she was certain of her choices and refused to back down. However, she still would seek out [[Thorir Ryder]] as she did not wish to cut all ties with him and still wanted to remain as friends at the very least, but he was nowhere to be found. No one had ever seen him since...

Slowly giving up fully on the man, she turned her entire focus to [[Leoden Garande]] who made her feel as if she were walking on air each time she saw him. She got to spend a lot of quality time with him, even teaching him how to dance; which were somewhat fruitful, but she definitely enjoyed the little things with him. One day, as he was cooking them up a meal, they got talking about the entire developments occurring around them, including their own progress. During said talk, he confessed that he was considering having children someday with her and even marriage. It surprised her as she never suspected him to be the type or even be aware of the topic, but then she remembered that long ago she did educate them on the meaning of marriage and all that was tied to it. She admitted that she was in no hurry, and neither was he luckily. Among the conversation, [[Leoden Garande]] confessed that he was quite excited about the incoming child, which she conceived with [[Thorir Ryder]]. Her eyes showed shocked and she looked away before admitting that she got rid of the pregnancy. She refused to delve deep into the topic and he didn't press it. The rest of the evening passed in nice company and nice conversation until the two of them got a bit frisky but suddenly [[Kathir Ragewind]] passed by and Meriell just died out of embarrassment, quickly running back to her room. Soon after [[Kathir Ragewind]] would pop into her room and he was quick to apologize about getting her flustered, but she thought nothing of it and hugged him before he left and then [[Leoden Garande]] reappeared to turn in for the night with her.

Morning came and Meriell then ran into [[Helga Mistwalker]]. She was elated to see her and the two shared a most tender moment, including Meriell showing her room to her for the first time and the two continued talking, [[Helga Mistwalker]] admitting that she was very happy to have Meriell as a daughter figure. They talk got cut short as [[Leoden Garande]] walked in on them, stating that he had offered his assistance to the Flames as in the North they suspected Garlean activity. Worried sick for him, Meriell requested to join him on the venture, as did the Highlander. He didn't seem too content with that but noticing how adamant both women were, he agreed. Meriell then mentioned that she felt the same way he did whenever [[Lynn Shiri]] would leave him on her own ventures. The mention of her name made him cry, as he still had feelings for the Viera and Meriell was well aware of that, but she didn't hold it against him at all. Seeing how broken he was, she decided to let [[Helga Mistwalker]] assist him while she herself went to get them some water. She got sidetracked immediately as she ran into [[Kathir Ragewind]] and the two ended up talking.
[[File:Visitinglynn.png|500px|left]]
Following day, she again ran into the Hrothgar again after escaping a storm which was brewing outside and the two had a very fun and lighthearted talk when suddenly [[Lynn Shiri]] walked in, soaked wet from said storm. Meriell immediately brought her a towel and snatching the moment, she was quick to apologize to the Viera, feeling incredibly guilty for technically taking away [[Leoden Garande]] from her. The guilt was eating away at her since the beginning and she had wanted to speak to the woman since it had all started. [[Lynn Shiri]] appeared confused and stated that she had no ill-will towards any of them, as if was simply the reality of the matter and that the only matter which pained her was the fact they were blaming themselves over it. It opened Meriell's eyes a lot hearing her words, and as a small token meant to be an apology, she gifted her a beautiful yellow-flower ornament for her hair which she had made. While it wasn't perhaps necessary, she still wanted to soften things up. [[Lynn Shiri]] was thrilled to receive the flower, thanking her and then retreated to her room to change out of her armor into more comfortable attire. Meriell then joined [[Kathir Ragewind]] downstairs and the two shared some hot chocolate while talking about its origins and then even Starlight Celebration. [[Lynn Shiri]] joined them shortly and she tried for the very first time hot chocolate and she fell in love with it, even stealing Meriell's share! The trio retired to one of the seating areas to talk among each other, and the Viera mentioned some trip planned to the Shroud with a new visitor they had at the Respite, named [[Zetoh'a Velshado]]. Meriell had never met the man but judging from the Viera's tone of voice, she appeared to like him which made her smile widely. As the Viera left the two of them, Meriell asked [[Kathir Ragewind]] if he would be willing to take up the role as her mentor when it came to sword-fighting as with the disappearance of [[Thorir Ryder]], she had no one to teach her. He was most happy to take up the task. As they talked, he mentioned that [[Leoden Garande]] had returned from his mission to the North for the time being and that he was talking to [[Sini'to Shadar]]. Meriell was over-ecstatic to hear that he was safe although it did sound odd that he was talking to the priest. While they weren't on bad terms, it just felt peculiar, but she didn't put much thought into it as speaking of the devil, [[Leoden Garande]] appeared before them. Overjoyed to see him safe and right there, she threw herself in his arms with glee and he returned the small affections. The three of them then started talking in general about combat and Meriell expressed interest in seeing them duel as she never had the chance, and as upon request, they gladly obliged. They both let her setup the rules for the duel and instead of a simple three-time touch or until yielding, she decided that the first to fall off the stage would be the loser. The two men found it interesting and agreed to it. They fought for a very long time and in the end, [[Leoden Garande]] ended up losing but only just; flying onto Meriell's table and then dropping to the floor. As she tried to catch him, she lost her balance and fell back to the floor herself. The group laughed it all off and eventually the Hrothgar left them to change as well as relax. Meriell then took her partner up to her room to tend to his bruises and while assisting him, she informed him of her meeting with [[Lynn Shiri]]. He was shocked and clearly worried but she quickly settled his concerns once she explained to him that the Viera had no hard feelings towards them, as it seemed she had even moved on and was doing quite well. It did seem to calm him down a bit although he confessed to her that he still doted on the woman, as he couldn't kill off his feelings so easily; but she wasn't angry at him. Meriell sat herself on the floor, laying her head in his lap as she reassured him that she wasn't angry at him for it and that she understood it perfectly, telling him to take his time. They talked some more but she then quickly drifted off to sleep and he took her to the bedroom. Snuggling up to him and telling him how much she loved him, they both fell asleep in each others' embrace.
[[File:Meetupbeforemission.png|500px|right]]
News came from [[Kathir Ragewind]] that in Thanalan the Amal'jaa were gathering people and kidnapping them, and the company quickly took up arms and Meriell was no exception, immediately signing up to join in. [[Leoden Garande]] was at her side as was [[Sini'to Shadar]] and a few new faces. They gathered a good amount of people and they all headed towards Camp Drybone before venturing further East, until they found the Amal'jaa. They were immediately confronted by them and a fight started, Meriell unfortunately not having her day as she accidentally shot [[Sini'to Shadar]] in the head, luckily he wore a helmet and it simply bounced off. Further ahead, again she missed and again shot him in the head. He raged and it quickly came out that it was her doing. Ashamed, she decided to stay up front to avoid getting anyone killed. At one point they were ambushed by a rain of arrows and she did not notice in time to move away, saved by [[Leoden Garande]]'s quick thinking as he threw himself in front of her, taking an arrow to the shoulder. She panicked but did not let it show, doing her best to focus on the mission at hand and killing off every last of the Amal'jaa. The reached an embankment where they spotted the beasts leading the chained people away and they acted quickly to catch up. [[Ren Kazumi]] immediately attached the Amal'jaa from a distance with her magic, disintegrating them to dust and the slaves immediately ran towards them for safety and she escorted them out. While the group consulted on the next moves, [[Leoden Garande]] would quickly make his way to the other side of the embankment, intent on scouting forward. Seeing that, Meriell followed him in worry as well as wanting to be of assistance. Once she caught up, he quickly hid her in the bushes with him as he could see the enemy from afar and didn't want to alert him of their presence. In whispers, she apologized to him for being more of a nuisance as well as getting him hurt. he tenderly cheered her up as the rest of the party soon caught up. [[Sini'to Shadar]] was dazed for the entire time after getting two arrows to his helmet, the echo and impact making him look as if he were intoxicated. The group reached a higher platform in the area and were confronted by am Amal'jaa shaman mounted a top an immense black coeurl. They all prepped for battle, staying clear of the beast as it would often shoot out lightning at them. [[Leoden Garande]] tackled the shaman off the beasts back, splitting them apart. While most engaged with the shaman, the coeurl took interest in Meriell and charged at her but she managed to avoid it. [[Sini'to Shadar]], still dazed, wasn't of much use and [[Kathir Ragewind]] used his sword to slash open the coeurl's eyeball, sending it into a rage. With combined efforts, the shaman was taken down easily, attention then focused to the beast. Meriell used her arrows to blind the creature, destroying it's sight in it's only functioning eye. The creature enraged further, intent on killing the intruders and everyone took cover as best as they could. Terrified for her friends, she took a stand, using all of her arrows as she shot them into the sky and a torrent of arrows rained down from the sky to defeat the coeurl. They all rejoiced, tending to each other's wounds as they then swiftly freed the remaining people before returning to the Respite to heal and rest.

The following day, everyone still recovering but in high spirits from their success, she met [[Helga Mistwalker]] together with [[Leoden Garande]] and they all agreed to depart on their long planned camping trip in two days time. Thrilled, she immediately went to her room to start packing. [[Leoden Garande]] followed her and they would talk about the events of the day prior, wanting to make certain that he was alright and that his wound was healing. He was certainly fine and their talks moved to the bedroom as Meriell expressed her desire to redo things between then, that time properly. He seemed confused until she started to undress and the message became clear. They shared an intimate night in each others embrace, this time the right way without any barriers between them, without the feeling of guilt.

Not long after, Meriell ran into him and [[Helga Mistwalker]] in the hallways of the Respite and the two women learned that he had acquired and apartment from the Flames as thanks for his hard work. They immediately wanted to see the place and he took them there, which wasn't far at all as it was in the same ward. The apartment block appeared empty and only his apartment was there. Meriell inspected his flat with utmost interest, truly happy for him to get recognized for his achievements and dedication. Meanwhile, [[Helga Mistwalker]] seemed to get interested by a certain Roegadyn mannequin tucked into a corner of the room right at his bedside. Meriell thought nothing of it, seeing it as simply another one of his sewing endeavors while the Highlander questioned why it was even there beside his bed, not to mention it had a bikini on. He was absolutely flustered and had no words, blaming the Flames for placing it there as all the furnishing was from them. After the entire fiasco, he wanted to get rid of the thing as quickly as possible but then [[Helga Mistwalker]] expressed great interest in keeping it and he gave it to her most gladly.
Days came and went and the Respite was as dead as always. Wanting to get more life in, Meriell put together a cooking contest. A friend of hers came to judge together with her and also [[Borgaeir Seaborne]]. [[Kathir Ragewind]], [[Sini'to Shadar]] and [[Leoden Garande]] participated, each dressed just perfectly for the contest, even joking that perhaps it was a fashion show. Each one of them cooked marvelously and very different dishes indeed, showcasing their origins. [[Leoden Garande]] however had to leave as he suddenly got contacted by the Flames. While worried, she did let him leave. The judges gathered and deemed the Hrothgar's dish to take third place, the Highlander second while the priest took first.
</spoiler>

===<div style="font-family:garamond;font-size:larger;padding:5px 10px;background-color:#C00005">Gallery</div>===

<gallery>
Meriellattire.png|Meriell's Far Eastern Clothing
Servingmell.png|Grand Opening of Club Lustre
SingingdancingMell.png|Entertaining at Club Lustre
Vonnemell.png|Madam Vonne
Meriellandriri.png|Meriell & Ririan
Swimmingthorir.png|Goblet Tour
Haukkemanorinfiltration.png|Infiltrating Haukke Manor
Mellinkugane.png|Kugane
Mellleo.png|Meriell & Leoden Confess
maidevent.png|Maid Event
Fcbonding.png|Respite Downtime
Kathir&mell.png|Meriell with Kathir
Amalj'aamission.png|Amalj'aa Mission
</gallery>

[[Category:Character]] [[Category:Player Character]] [[Category:Character Stub]] [[Category:Hyur]] [[Category:Midlander Hyur]]