Aerostein Epitaph

Aerostein Epitaph
"If you can't live freely, why bother living at all...?"
The Lone Wanderer
Gender	Male
Race	Hyur
Clan	Midlander
Citizenship	Gridania
Age	24
Build	5 fulms 8 ilms, 145 ponz
Occupation	Wanderer
Guardian	Althyk, the Keeper

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Character

Aerostein Epitaph is a mysterious young man from the Shroud wandering Eorzea for reasons currently unknown. Most likely to be free and do what-so-ever he chooses.

General

Full Name: Aerostein Epitaph

Nameday: 18th Sun of the 5th Astral Moon, 1554

Marital Status: Single

Sexual Orientation: Homosexual

Alignment: Chaotic Neutral

Origin

Aerostein Epitaph was born on the 18th Sun of the 5th Astral Moon in 1554. His birth name is Aaron Stone. His mother was a respected conjurer in Gridania, and his father a black mage from parts unknown, later found to be from Ul'Dah. Having his mother die shortly after birth, Aero was raised by the conjurers in Gridania.

Early History

Aero began his training as a conjurer early on as a child having a natural affinity for the art, particularly both elements of air and stone. Aero never had much choice in the matter either way. Instead of playing like most children his age, he would prefer to read and write, furthering his education. He was something of a golden child growing up. Being good-natured, naive, innocent, and many other things he was loved by all. Eventually, by 13 , Aero would hear the voices of the elementals making him a hearer. Having risen in the ranks at an alarming rate, by the age of 16, he was already an accomplished conjurer. However, at the age of 17, Aero would leave Gridania to see the world believing life was too short to just sit around and die in a backwater town.

Life In Limsa

Having left his home in Gridania to broaden his perspective in life, Aero would venture out into the cruel waters of Limsa Lominsa. Not particularly happy with the salty smell of the sea and all the fish, he knew he was far away from home. He would first visit the Arcanist's guild to become more powerful, but it didn't work out well for him. Finding their art to be a joke, he found himself at a loss. Originally, he would prove easy prey for pirates and other brutes. Being pick-pocketed often, beat up, and made the target of cruel jokes. In order to make coin, and toughen himself up, he would enlist in the Marauder's guild for a time.

Aero would struggle upon joining, especially in hand to hand combat. He lacked both dexterity and strength, and almost didn't make it. However, he was too stubborn to give up. He would eventually learn how to wield an axe, and was rather graceful with it to his surprise, however, he still lacked physical strength to become truly great. He did gain a bit of muscle, to say the least. The other marauders would learn to rely on his conjury, perhaps a bit too much. Over time, Aero would soon realize as the years went by he was never really liked much in the guild, and was only tolerated because he was useful. In time, he would get fed up as being a tool for the other marauders.

After having saved up a decent amount of gil, he would quit the guild. Aero would soon get tired of life in Limsa, seeking more power and knowledge he would venture to Ul'Dah at the age of 20. During this time period, the calamity had little to no effect on Aero.

Life in Ul'Dah

The physical training from the Marauder's guild would prove valuable upon reaching this city. Being able to stand his ground against the larger men who would cause him harm. It was here, he would know what it meant to live lavishly. Spending much of his hard-earned gil on finely-crafted clothes, accessories, and drink. It wouldn't take him long to figure out he would love this city.

He would eventually visit the guild for thaumaturges and found out he excelled in the art, and loved the power it gave him over others. He was actually well-liked and respected in this guild, despite being a conjurer primarily. Being young and foolish, this power went to his head and he began to use his magic recklessly. Dabbling in forbidden magics, and using his thaumaturgy without regard for innocent people around him. Even causing houses to catch fire once, and nearly killing an entire family due to showing off. Fearing he would lose himself like his father did before him, he vowed to never use that magic again. Although, he didn't stop studying the art.

Aero would mostly work with adventurers and mercenaries to keep his coin flowing to support himself. Working with mercenaries would change his outlook on life in general, more so than he had realized. Learning the cruel truths of reality, and the cold necessities of the world. He would know what it meant to live, what needed to be done to survive. This caused an inner strife within him. He would soon miss his home, and would travel back shortly after his 23rd namesday.

Back to Gridania

On a dark night traveling through the shroud alone, he came across a large group of Miqo'te poachers. They had killed a family of fawns, and were about to kill the last baby until Aero intervened. Relying soley on his conjury alone, he was clearly outmatched by the sheer amount of them. However, he was too stubborn to back down. Aerostein, now bruised, bloodied, and very nearly defeated, broke his own vow and used his thaumaturgy.

Now frenzied and not in control of his power, he would freeze a few solid in place. He would encase the rest of his attackers in stone, allowing them to die slowly. The small number that remained tried to surrender, but he was too far gone to be reasoned with. They would try to flee, and as they were begging for their lives, Aero would throw out bolts of lightning, electrocuting them. However, he nearly missed their leader and barely was able to dodge a blade aiming for his throat. He suffered a deep cut to his left cheek. Aero still enraged, set the last poacher on fire, incinerating him alive.

When he awoke, it was raining softly and he had little memory of what had happened. He was shaken at what he had done, and it can be assumed this was the first time Aerostein had taken someone's life directly. He felt much guilt over this, although, a darker part inside of himself enjoyed it. He broke down, crying in the rain, reflecting on what he has become ever since he had left Gridania. Eventually, the baby fawn would come over to him from it's departed mother, and he decided to tend to it ever since. Only recently giving it up to a friend who is better suited to care for it. Aero has yet to mention this night to anyone.

Back in Gridania

While happy for a while, to be back home, something about Aerostein had changed. He was no longer the sweet, loving golden child he once was. No longer was he naive to the ways of the world and innocent. No longer was he a weak child who couldn't protect himself. Nothing about his home seemed the same again since he's been gone for so long.

After many falling outs with others of the guild about how magic should be used, he was deemed as a failure. Some claim Aerostein quit the guild, others say he was dispelled, regardless, it is unclear what truly happened. After spending some time back home, he seriously considered what he wanted in life. He wanted to be free, and soon enough it was only a matter of time before he would take off again. A few days later, he would be gone again. Vowing only to return to important business.

Present

Aerostein, now 24, travels from place to place, mostly alone on his own. He is most often seen in Ul'Dah, often spending his coin in taverns. It is believed he has some sort of base in Ul'Dah, due to him staying in the region for so long. For coin, he works for a small tribe of beastmen somewhere south of Ul'Dah. While in the city, he often sells his talents in healing to those in need on the side. It has been rumored he is something of a spy working for an unknown crime faction blackmailing noble families to afford his lifestyle, but whether this is true or not, is unclear.

Recently, he found a tome once belonging to his father. A tome of secrets containing various powerful spells, secrets of his father's life, and research into the dark arts. Having no known relatives, Aero would begin his search for his father and have one hell of a ride in doing so.

Appearance

Aero stands at about 5 fulms & 8 ilms and weighs about 145 ponz. He has a somewhat toned build despite studying primarily in the arcane arts. He has a very pale complexion and sports light blonde hair with black highlights. He takes great pride in his hair especially, washing it and re-styling it often. He also loves wearing expensive fragrances, and figures he must smell as good as he looks too.

He has purple eyes, and a scar on his left cheek. Also has a pair of star tattoos right above his cheek. Aero is most often seen wearing white or black clothing of fine quality, though it's not uncommon for him to wear dark blues and purple. He also seems fond of rosegold and mythril jewelry. He takes good care to make sure his nails are cut short, clean, and sharp.

Personality

Aero is usually mostly polite and independent, preferring to do things alone. He is mostly reserved and somewhat cold, preferring to keep mostly to himself. Despite his good looks, he is rather innocent when it comes to more intimate matters. Has a habit of falling for people much too quickly, and much too easily. Blushing whenever complimented, or even at the slightest touch. He, however, can be quite stubborn and a bit self-centered at times. Aero also has proven himself to be somewhat vain. Although, he does care for his friends. Recently, however, he has been much more sombre due to having his heart shattered. Smiling less often, and being much more prone to mood swings.

On the other hand, Aero can be rather temperamental and unforgiving to those who disappoint him. He also believes feelings like love are a weakness and can be easily exploited. Though, he can't help but become fascinated by the idea. After some time in the real world on his own, and spending much of his time in the company of mercenaries he generally places little value in most people's well-being and is not averse to killing when pushed. As seen when he burned a bandit alive for scarring his face.

Despite his quiet demeanor, he is a difficult man. He does not reveal much of his past, nor himself. He is often misunderstood, and secretly believes most people have hidden intentions. While not usually intentionally malicious, he values his personal freedom above all else and may harm an innocent if necessary to obtain his goals.

Sexuality

Although Aero finds women to be attractive, he is not sexually attracted to them. He has always preferred the look and feel of men. He is most comfortable around other Hyurs, followed by Elezen, and sometimes Miqo'te. He doesn't find the other races physically pleasing to his eye. It can be seen that Aerostein is shy when discussing about what he is attracted to, blushing whenever asked about it.

Thoughts on Use of Magic

Aerostein believes magic should be used however the user should see fit, with little to no limitations. Having come from a line of magic users on both sides, he respects all that practice the arts and pities the ones who can't. He also believes it is a tool that should be used to both serve man, and rule over them if they so choose. For him, magic is a right and not a privilege. Unfortunately, his liberal ideas on the ways of magic is what got him dispelled from the Conjurer's guild.

Combat Art

Every character has a certain way to fight...

Fighting Style

Having a natural gift for magic, Aerostein prefers the art of both conjury and thaumaturgy to deal with his enemies. He has also trained a little in the use of axes to toughen his body. Although, his talent in casting by far exceeds this. Due to his lack of physical strength, his axeman-ship is sub-par at best. He mostly fights only in self-defense, and would rather not overwhelm another unless truly necessary.

Tendencies

What makes Aero tick...

Likes

• Freedom.
• Beautiful people.
• Expensive and shiny things.
• Wine.
• Thunderstorms
• Voidsent.
• Power.
• Corrupting the innocent.
• Animals.
• Grapes.
• Mirrors.
• Watching fat people eat.

Dislikes

• Laws and rules.
• Rude people.
• Cheap men.
• Ignorance and intolerance.
• Limsa Lominsa
• The self-righteous.
• The idea of love.
• Do-Gooders.
• Fish
• Being misunderstood.

Fears

• Getting close to people.
• Dieing.
• Rejection and being in-love.
• Being poor.
• Losing himself and becoming a monster.

Hobbies

• Reading and writing tomes.
• Shopping, and otherwise spending gil.
• Traveling.
• Drinking at taverns and spreading gossip.

Trivia, Secrets, & Things to Note

• Was born as Aaron Stone.
• He is a hearer.
• Took 'Epitaph' as his surname due to his love of writing them.
• Does not consider himself good nor evil. He simply is.
• Hates the fact his skill in conjury is far greater than his talent in thaumaturgy, as thaumaturgy is the more powerful art.
• Despite technically still being only a conjurer, he has dabbled in the forbidden arts of both white and black magic.
• Has a soft spot for both moogles and kittens.
• He is colorblind.
• Often tries to cover up his insecurities through being vain.

Favorites

• Favorite Color: Plum
• Favorite Food & Drink: Aldgoat Steak & Grape Wine
• Favorite Flower: Iris
• Favorite Creature: Moogles
• Favorite Element: Earth

Relationships

Who Aero loves and who Aero hates...

Family

• Imogen Stone (Mother) : Imogen was a conjurer who died shortly after giving birth. Aerostein was raised by the conjurers in Gridania where he perfected his talent in conjury. According to the conjurers, he resembles much of his mother. Upon further investigation of his father's tome, he learned that is was in fact his mother, not his father, that placed the heavy wards on it.

• Unnamed Man (Father) : Not much is known of Aero's father. All that is known of his father, is that he was a black mage who was never in his life. Rumor has it, this man is still alive and that Aerostein is seeking him out. In recent news, Aero has learned his father was an exiled nobleman from Ul'Dah in one of the tomes his father left behind. Originally, he believed his father warded the tome so only people of blood relation could open it, however, this was not the case. Only a direct descendant of his mother could open the book. Unfortunately, that is all there currently is to know.

• Other Family : It's possible he may have half-siblings, or cousins, but none are currently known.

Friends

• M'raj Mercenary : M'raj is a Miqo'te whose known Aero for the longest. Showing up suddenly in each others lives as if it were fate. Eventually, he would come across M'raj Mercenary while taking a joint-job from the Maelstrom and made a friend of him. Despite not being a mercenary himself, Aero finds himself running into this man at the most odd of times. The two have had their many differences in the past, but has only strengthened their bond. They are close friends, and have a respect for each others company. Aero sometimes worries M'raj may be leading a lonely life, but it is unclear if M'raj is aware of this.

• Cedric Riordan : A mysterious Hyur with a deep past. Cedric is an attractive man Aero first noticed by chance in Gridania. They didn't officially meet until later at the Quicksand in Ul'Dah. After learning of the man's history they developed something of a strong bond and chat often, even sharing wine on occasion. Vowing not to let anything happen to Cedric, as he is one of the few people Aero would do anything to protect. Aero is very fond of Cedric, worrying over his well-being quite often as he is being hunted. Eventually, they would even go on a date, with both confessing their love for each other. Aero loved this man greatly, being his first love and the first person he's had intimate relations with. Unfortunately, Cedric broke it off with him believing Aero needed someone better. Ironically, this led Aero to believe he is undesirable, and quite possibly was only used for sex. As time passed on Cedric would contact Aero, and the two would make up. They still care greatly for one another, but think it best they remain friends.

• Artorias Mason : A vengeful Hyur with seemingly much in common with Aero. Apparently a powerful warrior who has trouble staying in control of his actions. They met briefly on occasion at the Quicksand. While not happy hearing Artorias almost killed someone close to him while showing little remorse about it, Aero doesn't feel the need to label the man a monster. The two have been on friendly terms ever since, he even invited Aerostein to a beach party. Aero genuinely worries about this man as Artorias seems to have few friends, and many enemies. Although, he does wonder at the things he hears while eavesdropping on Caen's friends, he continues to give Artorias the benefit of the doubt.

• Julius Vermillion : A Hyur who Aero met through Artorias. Apparently, Julius and Artorias are from lands outside of Eorzea. Originally, Aero and Julius would meet outside of the Quicksand where Julius warned him of some suspicious character stealing gear from those he defeated in duels. Later on, Julius would resurface again and become a regular in Aero's circle of people he considers friends. The two are friendly enough with each other currently.

• Reverie Redwood : A Hyuran girl from Gridania who mistaken Aerostein for her twin brother. Although, they resemble a great deal, Aero assured her he wasn't who she was seeking. Nevertheless, he agreed to share his resources with the lass and helped her find out her brother is in Ul'Dah somewhere. They remain friends, and seem to be growing closer. Aero has taught the girl a few advanced spells by her request.

• Squall' Leonhart : A lad who is apparently friends with Julius and Artorias. Aero tries to show the boy some respect, but in truth he annoys Aero, greatly. Still, Aero manages to tolerate him.

• Sukoru Reonhato : Another character in Julius's band of merry misfits. Aerostein doesn't know much of the man, but shows him respect regardless.

• Torken Queb : A man who Aero agreed with in a heated debate about war and honor at the bar in the Quicksand. Later on, Aero sensed a powerful, but foul magic coming from this man. He believes this man is cursed, and has offered to help him remove it.

• Bexley Nelhah : A young Miqo'te who once bought Aerostein food at the Quicksand. Aero likes the boy, but thinks he is a bit too naive and has too much energy for his own good. He hopes to toughen the boy up and enjoys teasing him, calling him Ginger. He has a soft spot for the keeper, hoping he doesn't come to any real harm. Unfortunately, they seem to have huge disagreements on the use of magic and power. Nevertheless, Aero doesn't quit the lad.

• Caen Jabari : A curious Miqo'te boy with a love for yellow. Aero finds his carefree and lively demeanor endearing. The two have chatted little on occasion. Aero even gifted the boy some wine in good spirits once. Caen won Aero's favor for shielding him from harm, when introduced to Augustine. Aero's opinion of the boy improved much more so after this. He was the one who suggested Caen secretly write to Artorias. At some point, Aero would talk to Caen away from Garrett and Augustine to be certain for sure, what Caen truly wants. Happy with his answer, he gave the boy his pet fawn from his past.

• Lako Vaswindurst : A highlander man who once flirted with one of Aero's friends. Aerostein never thought much about it until much later when he came across this man again. Lako offered Aero a drink, and they both agreed about how pointless love is.

Enemies

• Rhodri Braddock (Rival) : After losing the affection of someone to this man once, Aero has held a grudge ever since. They say his talent rivals that of his own furthering his distaste of the man, though it appears one-sided.

Others

• Kiterina Firewing : A female Miqo'te Aero met through M'raj. Aero doesn't know much of her, but he finds her to be very beautiful and is fond of her gentle nature.

• Alaraien Eldryn : A Hyuran man who is most often seen in Bexley's company. Alaraien's strong desire to help and protect others often puts Aero off. Despite this, he merely only tolerates him out of respect for Bexley. That, and he finds the man pleasing to look at, to say the least. As of late, Aero has grown a serious distaste of this man. Especially when he lectured Aero on the use of his power.

• Avalt Laguz : A Hyur Aero mistaken for someone he once loved, due to them looking very similar. The flames believed this man to be a criminal, and put a device on him to prevent him from casting any sort of magic. Feeling much pity for this man, Aero has offered to help free the supposed 'criminal'. At some point, he had heard Avalt had died in some sort of Aether explosion, and was quite depressed he wasn't able to help him. Recently, he would see Avalt again at an event in Ul'Dah. Happy to see the man well, he even gave Avalt a hug in good spirits.

• Dietrich Dracht : An apparent gentleman of sorts that Aero finds charming. Aero met Dietrich in the gold court of Ul'Dah. Despite being teased by this man, he has taken a liking to him. Aero is currently interested to know more of this man after he helped Aero in tough times, despite Dietrich being a man of the law.

• X'Yue Tia : A flirty Miqo'te Aero met through Cedric. Aero tends to blush around this man at how casually he talks of sex.

• Garrett Slater : Aero would first hear this name from Caen, after Caen mistakenly believed it was he who once mentioned Aero prior to their meeting. Eventually, the two would meet briefly in Ul'Dah. Originally put off by the fact this man doesn't drink and his distaste of Artorias, he would later respect the man a little for his reasonable attitude in handling Augustine. He would later reluctantly ask for this man's help on a certain matter and was surprised he would help him. After some time not hearing anything back, he concludes that Garrett was unsuccessful in finding anything.

• Augustine Frost : A man who nearly got into a fight with Aero outside the Quicksand for delivering a message to Caen, from Artorias. Augustine seemed ready to inflict pain upon Aero, and the feeling was indeed mutual. Aero naturally didn't like this man at first, but seems to dislike him less over time. He respects the fact Augustine is protective of Caen. Regardless, Aero watches this man carefully, believing him to be somewhat of a threat. They recently made a deal that Augustine will shave off his sideburns if Aero removes his stars, both outcomes appear unlikely.

• Juste Fantome : An Elezen who he has seen with Cedric on more than one occasion. He believes he and Cedric have a thing, making him very jealous of this man. Recently, he learned there was nothing going on romantically between the two. Although, he was quite surprised when Artorias told Aero not to tell anyone he had seen Juste. Aero wonders just who Juste may be, but doesn't care enough to know.

Rumors

What do people truly think?

Annotations

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