P R A E T O R I A

~¡Check Out my Carrd!~

¡Salvete Omnes!
Welcome to my little slice of Hydaelyn where me and my associate Grapple Pie spend our seasons in search of good quality food, material, and friends. Being founding members of the Limsa Lominsa Crafter's Union, we've dedicated our lives to the betterment of all Spoken both within the city and abroad. In my Twilight Seasons, I dedicate myself to achieving through skill and diplomacy what I can no longer accomplish through mere strength alone~

Index
6^th Astral Era
1557 | 1562 | 1563 | 1568 | 1572
7^th Umbral Era
1 | 2 | 3
7^th Astral Era
1^2.35-3.05 | 2^3.07-3.38 | 3^3.38-4.06 | 4^4.06-4.35
5^4.35-5.08 | 6^5.08-5.30 | 7^5.08-6.00 | 8^6.00-6.2
9^6.20-6.48 | 10^6.48-7.0 | 11^7.0-

1557^th Winter of the Sixth Astral Era

A brooding deserter arrives in Mor Dhona . . .

1562^nd Winter of the Sixth Astral Era

What is your WoL/OC’s relationship with the gods and other great mystical powers? Do they revere all of the Twelve, one in particular, none at all? What about Azim, Nhaama, or the Elementals?



When I first came to Eorzea, and even before, many important things happened to me under Menphina's evening eye. My birth, my first love, the opportune time for my expedient emigration, and embracing me when her hound fell to the ground. I was not very religious when I first came to Eorzea but this place most certainly writhes with living proof of the gods and their beauty~

What sparked my faith, however, was the noble sacrifice of a great wyrm, The King of Kings. Minime, I am no Dravanian faithful, all due respect to them, but rather the Bane of the XIVth had earned my reverence in the Battle of Silvertear Skies.
I walked across the verdant fields and scaled cliffs alongside beautiful azure falls there in Mor Dhona and heard much of The Broodfather as I sketched every herb and critter that inhabited this paradisus.
Many from Ala Mhiga and Garlemald were exposed to its beauty, the land being the gateway to Alliance controlled portions of the continent, and when the Dravanian Horde came to protect this land from Garlean incursion they, in turn, saved many from the worst of the assault (and the far worse occupation that would come after).

Friends fell, of course; the land was scarred, of course; but the sacrifice was worth it, if barely so. Perhaps the Garleans would have blighted the land similarly but, regardless, the sacrifice has ensured Eorzea's (and my own) freedom for many moons to come. As such, I do not think The Goddess minds when I sneak in a prayer of thanks and good fortune to the Phantom Dragon, wherever his soul now flies~

1563^rd Winter of the Sixth Astral Era

¿Have I ever told you how me and Mr. Pie met?
When I got to Gridania for the first time I had to follow a guidebook telling me what was forageable so I kept my eyes down the whole time. In one bush I had ducked into I heard rummaging and, Eheu, suddenly I was face-to-face, for the first time, with a Goblin.
He was spooked too, dropped all of his berries, and booked it before I could say sorry. I'm glad I spotted him later that week and give him his berries back, ¡in the form of a homemade pie! It wasn't a good one but it started a great friendship so I think it was worth it~

I'm not entirely sure they aren't making fun of me by allowing me to wear a, "Goblin Cap" . . . ¡but Mr. Pie's family is always a treat to be around!
Even the residence of Gridania have lost a certain touch with nature that these nomadic folk seem to keep alive with truly unique flavours and a scavenger attitude that can turn even the humble Shriekshroom into a savoury side to pair with your common Shallow Stream Chub.

Eheu, but maybe that's romanticizing their way of life too much. They chose this rather than merchandising their food and time . . . but still, a part of me wants to finance a little food-cart for some to sell their fresh caught and foraged goods, prepped and cooked for the general public, and share that down-to-Hydaelyn style of cooking. Maybe then the Gridanian public won't be so self-righteous >.>

A cool, slow day. The summer sun feels warm when it peaks through the canopy, shining like stained glass shooting off many beautiful colors across the forest floor~

1568^th Winter of the Sixth Astral Era

In an age now past I, Fufucha Fucha, and Grapple Pie were trainees in the Botanist's Guild. Before the Calamity even the lowlands of Thanalan were in full bloom and Allthyk Lavender covered the landscape from horizon to horizon.
This particular one had eaten peaches her entire life -- perhaps such a sweet fruit birthed such a lovely lady . . . though the parade in Ul'dah six winter's prior is a lesson to us all about the dangers of wild animals. Regardless, Fufucha's unconditional love for nature and bravery around beasts had always impressed me~

A shame the lowlands would fall to Bahamut's rage, its seeds carried only by the last surviving Goobbue of that halcyon age . . .

1572^th Winter of the Sixth Astral Era

Finally; the sun is shining, the grass is verdant, and all the pieces of life are falling into place . . . ¿hey, have you noticed Dalamud glowing ever brighter?

1^st Winter of the Seventh Umbral Era

Your WoL/OC is having a bad day. How do we cheer them up?


¡Oh, oh!
Grapple Pie knows what makes Peachie Keen on bad day, often co-live in longstop. Starts with fancy gobbiebrew: strong chai, ¡very creamy and frothy and warm!. Peachie trades tongueflaps for what feels like manybreaths but Grapple Pie earcatches, Pie is great gobbiefriend as wellknows~



Afterwhich limbstretch under sun to help Peachie legmove. Lalalander tiny but hold many sorespots from armswing days. Lalafriend tells Grapple Pie Dunelalas get power from sun but Pie knows Peachie not leafygreen.



Finally, Peachie find prayplace of lovegod. Peachie thanks for what she has, unsure why not beg for things like jinglyshine or lalalove. Many ladies overlook lalafriend due to smallsize but Peachie have big heart, so Pie trade smallpray to lovegod for friendsake.
Maybe this sounds like mostday for Peachie but she claimstakes it's made better because of gobbiefriend Grapple Pie~

2^nd Winter of the Seventh Umbral Era

How good is your WoL/OC at handling Magitek technology?
¡Vides, vides I promise I'm actually quite good with magitek! Scavenging their parts and fixing them up is one of the many ways freelancers can make some serious gil and back in my heyday I was known to fetch a pretty penny for such services~

Et ita, sometimes they reawaken when you least expect it and drag you off to where some old Garlean gaoling facility was . . . ¡but I can hardly be blamed for that!

What job(s) does your WoL/OC use primarily, and what made them take that path? Disciples of Land and Hand are very much included here!

Botany came to me naturally as a young adult traversing the captivating hinterlands that were Mor Dhona. Due to a variety of influences, from the strange crystals to occasional Dravanian occupation, the region was akin to a biological island of sorts; i wish to this day that the sketches writ in the journals of my youth could come back to life, but that was some twelve winters ago . . .


When Atrius fell and the fickle aethercurrents took me for the first time I found myself in the Twelveswood and became properly educated in the art and the vastly more common flora and fauna I would encounter on my travels. Quite naturally this led me into the path of the Culinarian; after all, ¿what is the purpose of gathering raw materials if not to synthesize them? For the world of man to mean anything man must first learn to harmonize with the world. The disciplines of the hand are just a formal ways of describing the symbiotic relationship we should be having with Hydaelyn. Even when we're feasting upon her succulent meats and hearty grains~

3^rd Winter of the Seventh Umbral Era

While similarly nomadic to most Goblin clans, the Qiqirin who reside on Vylbrand live close enough to each other to keep up constant communication with their siblings who've settled within city boundaries. With a lack of postal services, the Limsa Lominsa Crafter's Union tends to be the primary route by which these are sent and received via affiliated mercatores.


Quamquam, foot traffic in Upper La Noscea is low and so most trade comes from the Kobolds further north, the rare adventures, and occasionally Maelstrom forces looking for more illicit goods. As such, I've gathered a stack of Starlight letters and gifts that were left in the office, gave them out at the various trade posts, and await their responses to then bring back to the city proper. I wonder if this is how the Saint of Nymeia feels . . .

1^st Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

¿Oh this?
I just decided to go for a different style, y'know. Just a new lil looksie~ Oh wow what's that on the table, ¿a camera? I bet you'd love to take pics of 'lil ol' me, ¡here get my good side!
¿Why do you look so confused? Ecce, ¡it must be because every side is my good side! You flirt~


That.. was difficult to say the least. Miss Peach issued me a quest the instant I set foot in Her Union Quarters, and I was unable to deny it. There was no option. She did, however, give me a makeover, and teach me that "Stickers" exist, to which I am grateful... I suppose.
~Pictures are hard to take, Mora.

Love it or hate it, the hustle and bustle of Ul'dah strikes an imposing silhouette not only on the world stage . . . ¡but against the sandstorm coming right for me!
Foraging can come later, me and Mr. Pie need to find some cover . . .

¡Spent the day with my good friend Tataru! Had been feeling pretty down, letting the petty squabbles of politicians get to me, and she helped me zoom it back in on my own business. How I can help others in my own way and if I just focus on that then a better world will come to me. At least, that's what a friend of hers told her, ¡and now she told me! It's a basic truth, but one I needed to hear, ¡so I took her advice AND took her clamming! ¿What's more basic than hand fishing stationary creatures that look like rocks?

The eerie fog of industry follows the Garlean Empire wherever it goes. There's some beauty, I won't deny, in the fabricated nature created by the races of Hydaelyn but to see it created at such a cost to the local environment; ¡to the very sky itself! It makes you wonder if it was really worth it, if we can still fix it. ¿Are we worth fixing?

This is, of course rhetorical. ¡Every single one of us is worth it! Which includes you~


¡And in stark contrast comes the brilliant, almost mountain-esque architecture of the Kobolds in La Noscea!

The way they build into land whilst using the resources gathered locally to create homes not dissimilar to the cave systems they spelunk is akin to the Elezen's own naturalistic architecture. Rather than growing trees into the shape of arches, however, they carve the very stone to function as an abode. Truly awe-inspiring, a respect for nature and its design principles that, I think, is a sign of a culturally rich people in-tune with their gods and their inner-selves.

While on the surface the Imperial Garlean and Kobold design philosophy may seem to meet the same end goal, it is the means by which this goal is achieved which defines their impact and legacy.

While not members of the LLCU, independent entrepreneurs like Wafufu and the wonderful ladies volunteering at The Warmwine Sanitorium should also be checked up on to ensure no one is abusing their lack of advocacy.
My fellow little lady just needed some help clearing up a misunderstanding and the sanitorium needs far more volunteer work than I could muster up in an afternoon. Rukusa and A'rhunlika did mention that they came into quite the windfall recently due to an eccentric man, "Paying," for services rendered and that they're going to include a stipend along with the usual benefits of food and shelter for those who volunteer during the busy season, ¡so be sure to hop by the Maelstrom HQ board and schedule some time!

The sunsets in La Noscea always take my breath away, even though its been many seasons since I first stepped foot on Vylbrand; much less Eorzea itself. How lucky we are to live in a land so harmonized with nature so that we may appreciate the beautiful views granted to us by both the landscape and our own architecture.

In Ishgard for business -- and good Menphina, ¡I forgot how cold it was in Coerthas!
It's pretty here, don't get me wrong, but my Dunefolk blood never enjoyed the frigid cold. Give me a crisp fall afternoon, sure, or a cool spring evening; but this is ridiculous.

When I'm done in the city I'll have to gather some spruce fall off for Ms. Fucha to update her on the state of the forest. If I get lucky she might even repay the favour and use her pretty doe eyes to mooch Yannie's ratatouille recipe off of her . . .

2^nd Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

It's rather rare I walk the streets of Ul'dah for a whole variety of reasons but the aftermath of The Rising can be nearly as busy as the setup. My little lady in arms, Tutusi, is one such merchant capitalizing on the supply shortage and logistics bottlenecking by securing new suppliers and freelance transport; ¡that's adventurers like you!

Which is all to say, ¡from Vesper Bay to Camp Drybone shall I march! Anything in the name of a good deal~

¿Has anyone seen Grapple Pie? ¡Our time in Cloudtop is almost up and we have to catch the next airship back to Gridania!

¡Good morning Gridania!

Heading out on my own to forage ingredients for a brief sup' with the carpentry guild master, ¡Beatin!
You see, Limsa Lominsa proper is an artificial island and has little trees to speak of so most private abodes have stonework furniture crafted in the Kobold artisanal style. Effective stuff, but not so great for the Limsa Lominsa Crafter's Union lounge . . . so lets see if I can't soften up this stylish Elezen (and their prices) with some delicious food~

Cushions on warm wooden chairs . . . I can't wait . . .



¡Io io!
¡Take a look at this animated Shriekshroom! They're not much good for eating, very poisonous stuff, but alchemists have managed to turn it into a potent growth hormone that keeps wood (think staves, wands, and other Gridanian accessories) healthy and youthful despite the environs it may encounter.
I wonder if such alchemy could aid in the creation of super strong boats for deep sea expeditions . . .

¿Or ecce, what of this?
While many things in Gridania subvert traditional scientific explanation, I'm fairly certain that this is an Ashkin. It's not very professional of me to say but it's simply the vibes; lonely spirits clinging wordlessly too each other in this cave, as if their souls forgot how to take flight, back into the star and into the Aether Stream.
It's sad, but even in such melancholy I think there is beauty to be found, ¿don't you?~

It was real nice of Beatin to recommend me to cater for this conference but eheu ... this is a lot of big names in one place.
Merlwyb is side eyeing me, ¿do you think she recognizes me? Oh gods, even the flame general is, ¿do they know I'm nervous, does he suspect me from that fiasco a while back at the palace? I should just stick to bonding ceremonies and namedays ...

¡By Menphina!
When I heard New Sharlayan had been abandoned some twenty years prior I never expected it to be re-settled by Gobbiekin. Mr. Pie's a little nervous, these City Gobbies seem quite a bit different to the forest dwellers he's used to but the friendly, communal nature and collective strive towards an egalitarian society burns brightly in the hearts of everyone we speak to; and I thought Limsa Lominsa was progressive, ¡this puts us to shame!
Aside from the issue of a secretive faction of technocratic elitists, I could see myself planting my roots here . . . ahh, but only after I've done my part with the LLCU to make all of Eorzea a more fair place; ¡using Idyllshire as a model example moving forward!

Spending more time getting tours from the locals of Idyllshire and learning about their local customs and commercial ventures. Of particular note for me and my colleague are, naturally, the flora and fauna that constitute this region of the Dravanian Hinterlands. With new ingredients we can further expand the palette of those in Limsa Lominsa whilst also introducing this new Idyllshire cuisine and culture to the rest of the world.

And, as interesting as that is . . . ¿have you noticed how . . . short Mr. Pie is? I had assumed he was the runt of his family, ¡but indeed he is akin to a Lalafell to his own people!
Ahh, but don't tell him I said that, making fun of other's height whilst I am of the short stature that I am would most certainly be labeled as self-sabotage~

I've realized I don't post many pictures of my journey through Limsa Lominsa proper. Perhaps it's because it feels like home, perhaps at other times it feels too official. The whole city has an intense vibe, a hustling and bustling atmosphere that forces you to be present at all times; even if it's an awareness of any potential muggers on the lower decks . . .

In Ishgard again, staving off the cold with some business and pleasure. Praise be to Hydaelyn and the airship network, while in my work as a botanist it's only somewhat useful, ¡as a representative of the LLCU it lets me build connections all over! Whether its supporting the lovely Tataru Taru whose skill at networking is utterly unmatched in all of Eorzea or meeting with Hilda Ware once more to discuss business and politics, I wouldn't give up these connections for the world. Eheu, but it's not all fun and games . . .

Noble, monetarist, or pontifex, all will strongarm their views to crush the layfolk's right to exist. Ishgard is no different and while they've seen major reforms they can never become complacent lest they risk falling to another populist looking for revenge rather than change. Crafting a sense of community, democratizing work places, instilling a sense of political responsibility into every man, woman, other, and child. I'm not looking for Idyllshire's Gobbieanarchy, not yet, but if anyone can help Ishgard it's the careful and calculated touch of Ms. Ware~

3^rd Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

Grapple Pie keeps telling me to ditch the cane and trust the porters and look, I know trudging through the snow at my age isn't the smartest idea, ¡but this buck-wild chocobo is NOT helping my back!

¡Even the rain won't keep us away!
In truth, a lot of my free time has been spent establishing a foothold here in Idyllshire. A very lovely young lady named Edgyth has helped me find other aspiring minds like Slowfix and Goldwox who fully realize that their dream, our dream, is worth fighting for, even if it's utopic.
Next step, ¡establishing a charter hall that helps connect Idyllshire with the LLCU and the world at large! I'm sure there's a suitable abandoned building around here somewhere . . .

Gyr Abania ... even when I have a job to do I always feel so aimless wandering it's rocky corridors.
It's not the climate, it's not the people, it's not the flora nor fauna, but rather my history with it. The people here are doing great, even accepting the variety of races on Eorzea as friends in resistance to Garlemald, and moving on with life despite their many losses ... perhaps I should too.

"¿You want me to hunt a what-now?"
Hunting is most certainly a part of the culinary arts but ... I haven't exactly wielded my gunblade against anything feistier than a wild chocobo in near thirty years, and nary for anything but self-defense 😥


It's no wonder Garlemald was hard fought to tame this land, not only are its people hardy but I think that Teleoceras took a whole clip without even flinching . . . I wouldn't know though, I could barely stand to look at the blinding blast 🫣

I'll have to inform the M tribe that my long-gone warrior's spirit and bum shoulder is only good for cooking, not firing . . .

Praise the airship system, ¡I got to show Edgyth around Gridania!
This place is kind've like my second home and I'll never forget what the Botanist's Guild did for me, so it's always a treat to show someone else the magic that I first saw here . . . how times change though. Regrets and heartbreak aside, it's also a great opportunity for Edgyth to learn from the best, my dear Fufucha, ¡and bring back the skills necessary to feed Idyllshire for years to come! I hope gobbiefriends like popotos ...

Put laundry away in the dresser or pull it straight from the hamper?

We tend to do group laundry at the headquarters, ¡so it all needs to be put away as soon as possible! But with how many clothes there are, diversity of body types, and aesthetics soooometimes things get a little mixed up~ 😅


And goodness, my hair sure has gotten long, but I think I'm too embarrassed to go to the barber with this fit ... 😳

Peach Gobbler hands a ferryman some coin, more than enough to reach The Keeper of the Lake and back twice over. He does not question it, aware of her occasional journey to the isle to pay her respects.


Peach Gobbler sits before Midgardsormr's corpse, wrapped up in the remnants of an old Garlean airship from a time before the Calamity; from a time before Peach Gobbler carried with her that name.
"It's been a while since I've paid respect proper. Phantom Dragon, whose spirit rides upon the Aethercurrents, you've traveled alongside me near and far and ensured safe travels for these one and thirty winters. In this time your twin sons have fallen silent as their Dragonsong War has been brought to a close, yet still their legacy lives on. Eternal as your will, the righteous wrath of Nidhogg and careful contemplation of Hraesvalgr can be found in my own compatriots, although I am certain your watchful eye is aware of their existence if not their very deeds performed during these troublesome times. I bid your wings give them shade yet longer, as I suspect their destiny will lead them to a time and place I will be unable to follow."
"Oh Bane of the XIVth, I bring forward goods made of great beasts taken down by your brood and cooked by the finest chefs Ishgard can offer; a taste of their union so that you may appreciate the wisdom in this peace on a level I believe only food can offer. I beg not for petty aid to my own strife, I am strong yet and seek solutions within mortal grasp, but instead give forward information and offerings freely. I have only thanks to give for saving my life, for giving me this journey to look forward to, for the people I've met and the lives I've been allowed to change ... for the better, ever since your redemption of my soul.
Gratias ago, pater. Valeas quam optime~"

4^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

As east opens to west and Garlemald is hard pressed to stop it, I've received a rather queer commission from a gastronomer out on the Azim Steppe to teach him my culinary ways. I am certain his people have their own ways so I wonder why he sought me out to answer his query; ¿did my cookbooks make it through the blockade and influence him so?



Eheu, a bit of an issue, I cannot use the aetheryte system as I have both never been to the east nor able to use magic anyroad. Procuring a ship willing to take me will cost much of the commission . . . I will have to ask a favour of a good friend . . .

¡Evoe Mor Dhona! Mea amor, mea doma~
I'll never turn up a commission in Mor Dhona, even if seeing it makes me nostalgic for my youth. Rowena bade me document the life growing around the now Eorzean controlled Castrum Centri. Much of the life here is hydrophilic and, notably, entirely foreign to the flora of yesteryear whose sketches are readily found in journals of my youth. It's likely that seeds traveling upon beast of burden are the culprit for such an invasive, albeit welcome, species.

I have heard of a hardy grain known as Okome out east which may be able to take root in the ceruleum contaminated swamps emblematic of Garlean occupation. We told her that we will bring back seeds to test this hypothesis but, in the meantime, to generally avoid the irradiated beasts and fish which inhabit the swampland. Saying goodbye to the revered Keeper of the Lake, I head for Limsa Lominsa where my good friends have readied a ship for my voyage out east~

A few odd jobs out of the way, ¡it's time to head for Kugane! I know, the rhyme was very clever~


Shirokaze was so excited, all, "Oh my Oschon, ¿¡have you grown a few inches!?" and, "¡Tataru is gonna be, like, over the moon to see you girlie¡". She's a little goofy and I don't really get what she's saying half the time but that's part of what makes her such a treat~

¡I was beyond excited to see Tataru again! I had no idea she was around, what a busy little lady. She got me all dressed up in some local fit and while it was initially uncomfortable I always find a few drinks loosens me up. After my commision with Esugen I'll be sure to be the one to treat Ms. Taru to a memorable night~ 😋


Now, the issue of getting to Othgard itself ... ¡was actually rather easy! My new friend Hirase was so excited to see me in the markets; ¡he was looking for top shelf popoto to use in a modified hearty stew he learned from one of my books! I may not be able to hunt or fish very well but I can scout out a good popoto batch as well as, ¡gratias ago! 😤

Some fresh gyuki caught on the way for a proper pirate feast and I felt as at home in the Ruby Sea as I do in Limsa Lominsa. 🥰

We arrived to a place called Reunion which was as strange to me as it was to Shirokaze, her being a Raen and all. Apparently the few times she snuck into Othgard she would rarely come here as the native Xaela were often quite hostile to their pale-horned brethren. ¡Thankfully I found a merchant dressed as warmly as their disposition who happily dealt in gil, sold me a Qestiri child's dress, and told me of the Steppe! 🥳


Shriokaze was not so lucky, but I hear she kept her cool despite the rude takajo and their distaste for bargaining and foreigners. When I marched over there I could immediately tell they were a major creatum canis; not like I'd want to ride this far eastern chocobo equivalent anyroad ... 😒

Goes to show everywhere has its fair share of irrumatores, we'll just have to find another way up to The Dawn Throne to speak with Esugen and his Oronir. Weirdly, whenever I ask people, they tell me such a task is impossible and that they wouldn't allow me up anyroad, ¿what gives? 😓

Oh I do not like Shirokaze's plan ...


¡AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Good ... ¿morning?
So, turns out, I did actually land on The Dawn Throne, wasn't really sure because my eyes were closed for most of the flight. Whilst I was getting interrogated over food crimes it turns out prejudice can take a backseat to awe as they offered Shirokaze the chance to serve, apparently taming a Yol without training or guidance is, "¡As impressive as Bardam himself!" and was told she should, "¡Forget the Malaguld, become an Oronir instead!"


She cut up one of the outfits they offered her, she has a very particular style after all, and decided against joining . . . but I can tell she's excited by all the attention, especially about the opportunity to tell the young about far off Limsa Lominsa. While she regales them with tales of her travels and acts as my chaperone, ¡I will be exploring the Steppe with Esugen to make a whole new culinary tradition that will honour even the halls of the Dawn Father! At least, that's what Esugen told his leader . . .

Eheu, Esugen . . .
I learned long along that fighting prowess is not the only way to serve one's community and that those of us of a softer countenance or older age can do so with our intellect rather than our bodies . . . but when you have a big fighting celebration once a year I guess that important fact can be obfuscated by social norms. It's a pain I understand too well . . .


Existential crisis aside, ¡we prepared mammoth meat for a feast! I found the meat to be EXTREMELY gamey and watching the men dig in convinced me they do so begrudgingly as a kind of test of strength. What they did not expect, however, was the combination of the Mol's butter, cream, and local cumin seeds to act as a peppercorn replacement in a savoury-spicy sauce; a combination strong enough to garner praise from Rhalgr, if I may be so bold~

Paired with tofu from The Ruby Sea and eggplant from newly-formed alliance partners in Doma, it was made for a huge group but I think every individual noticed the improvement, ingenuity, and passion put into it. I certainly noticed the improvement to Esugen's expression, I hope this is a good step in helping him realize how important he is to his people~

A young boy came up to me earlier, claiming to know Esugen, and handed me a letter. Entrusted with its delivery I naturally went to our mutual friend and I was glad to see the contents praising his deeds and service. I am but a stranger to Esugen, barely a mentor as that fellow has more talent than he gives himself credit for, and such adoration from someone he actually knows is astoundingly important. As we continue our journey across the Steppe to establish a new culinary tradition that kind of positive reinforcement is bound to come in surplus, nothing connects people quite like food~


. . . O, ¡speaking of that!
Esugen actually made a dish for me as thanks. He had been creative before but his jhammel moussaka really blew me away. His use of foreign ingredients in local specialties has served him well and will be extremely important, from a much broader perspective, in bringing the Confederacy, the Steppe, and Doma together. Eheu, I have expectations far above my station, however. Such lofty ambitions are better left to the young and adventurous . . . hehe, that reminds me . . .


Achoo . . . huh, why do I get the feelin' someone jus' said my name . . .

Has your WoL/OC ever been a mentor?


. . . training Edgyth and Esugen reminded me of when Neko Mocha was still a young immigrant to Gridania. Back when I was with the Botanist's Guild she was assigned as my apprentice by our former guild master and she was . . . well, anxious, to say the least.😔

We would train day and night, under the sun and in the rain and by Nophica she just wasn't getting it. The island society she grew up with were well versed in botany and she was doing great on paper but the actual act of gathering just wasn't clicking . . . until we figured out she just needed glasses. 🫠

Shes been doing good by Quarrymill, ¡what some my call sidequests and leves she sees as her job! Her letters show a desire for adventure like no other, however. Perhaps its time to take her on a trip . . .🤫

Explore, Understand, Establish, and Connect.
Ina missive writ by the Gobbler 'erself she talked 'bout goin' out in the world to weird n' new places to meet strange n' fantastical people. So from the Steppe she bid me trailblaze . . . and I was finna' fight off Lupin raids or Garlean Remnants, 'stead I'm nailin' shingles and harvestin' kome. EZ jobs make for EZ trailblazin'~


Ain't been all borin' tho, had a run-in with 'Bana-kun here whose total wimp demeanour was clearly beggin' for an aniki to keep 'im safe; ¡even 'lil Smiski knows what's up! Ahh, Mz. Gobbler wouldn't like me sayin' that tho, she'd be all, 'You have to recognize the other strengths people have and how they can contribute to the community in a way other than bestial combat," . . . wow, true actually; thanks little lalalady in my head. Maybe I should go into town and see if they've got a botany book so the fella can help his mum . . .

5^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

¡You may ask why I never have a backpack on and that's because Grapple Pie is always set for a camping trip! Right now we're in Tailfeather, Coerthas aiding Priorfaix by harvesting some local titanium to make sturdy chocobo fittings. A tad overkill, if you ask me, but it's a far more common sight in this region than iron or copper so it's really the only option.

They also allowed me some quality time with a chocobo which ... look, I think my problem is their long, sharp beaks. The rabid beasts of the Chocobo Forest to the east really didn't help my anxiety either and I think this tame one was just excited to receive some tasty greens from yours truly.

¿I'm sorry but unregulated production of soul crystals, fraudulent advertising, the use of xenophobic stereotypes to justify continued aggression against the immigrant Mamool Ja, appropriating the native magic of the Whalaqee, and the consolidation of profits from the sale of shoddy clothing and a non-peer reviewed spell-book into a small group of opportunistic entrepreneurs?
I am most appreciative of the Yellowjackets for bringing me on board for this investigation, ¡the miscreant known as Martyn must be investigated and ensured his continued actions are in compliance with the bare minimum of not only LLCU regulations but basic ethics!

Deidamnatus, they didn't even mention the union on the cover . . .
You'd think a decade and some change of cookbooks, botany guides, and celebrity chef appearances would get you some influence but all these monetarist editors want is a juicy story . . .

Pshhh . . . Shkohhh . . . Grapple Pie wonder why Lalafriend eyecatch gossipleaves if all Peachie Keen does is loudflap, "Futue te ipsi," and, "podex perfect est."

So many Blue Mages running around today . . . it seems no matter how hard I crack down on this unregulated and morally dubious guild of ne'erdowells that they continue to grow ever more popular.
Perhaps it is the nature of the youth to rebel. I can respect that, I admire revolution and communal organization, but I don't fully understand how allowing yourself to be attacked by wild beasts is either educational or fun.


As part of my investigation, I have ingratiated myself with the local Blue Mage "guild" in Ul'dah. While I have nothing but contempt for Martyn, his Mamool Ja accomplices had some trouble whilst an Immortal Flame soldier had to check the books on if they were allowed in the city -- Grapple Pie too is eyed with great suspicion as Gobbiefolks are banned from trading on the Ruby Road Exchange. Truly despotic behaviour from the Sultana and her Syndicate . . .
Different fight for a different time. First and foremost, these Blue Mage ruffians.

Muh-muh-maybe somewhere less frrrrrrigid would be-be good for our Duu-Dune and Sun Ke-ke-keeper blood ...


Mis'ress Gobbler, when I said I wan'ed an a'venture I thought i' would be somewhere sunny and nice, ¡not ina bog NEAR A TWISTER!

¡Festina Mocha! We can't let Azeyma beat us to those nodes~

Didn' yah tell me Festina Lente back in the day, tha' which 'as been done well 'as been done quickly 'nough.

Blah blah blah, ¡stop being so catty and get a move one!


These white oaks are used by the Ananta of Virdjala as a lightweight but sturdy building material. While they're famously stone masons, this material is nearly as strong and requires their expertise with a chisel to fashion into furniture a-- Mocha, what are you doing. Hey, hey don't stand to close to the . . . edge . . . what on Hydaelyn . . .

Don' see nothin' like this e'ryday, ¿eh? ¡We shoul' go ask those fell'rs what's up!

¡Off to the Southern Sea!
My brief expedition to Eureka proved far too disastrous for simple botanists like me and Neko Mocha -- she can investigate whatever that is in Gyr Abania, I need a VACATION. With my Uzumaki friend Taki Kiryuin, however, I'm sure we'll scour the mythical homeland of the Lalafell's for all the ripest fruit and exotic meats it has to offer. Meats my big Raen friend will handle slaughtering, of course~

While the retainers are away, ¡Peach Gobbler has a very important, world threatening task!
... To figure out if that gorgeous Roegadyn woman is sending hints from across the deck~

'Lways have people tellin' me I dress like a pirate, thought'd be ezier conversin' with 'em but MAN, tough crowd. It wasn't 'til I happened 'pon a Kojin looking for an escort and I ended up in uhh . . . ahh . . . I'm . . . still trying to figure it out. But, brightside, new business contact for future Othard charter of the Crafter's Unioooooon~

So I was flyin' on my Yol back from Kōgyoku-kai and saw a capital V Vessel flying in, smoke out the top like it was broke or somethin'. I tailed it for a moment before I saw it land and, by Oschon I shit you not, Hien-sama and the Kirigaku no Yūgiri herself.

So I tracked 'em through the 'Clave and spoke to the locals while he entertained some Garlean somethin' or others. 'Ventually he left and I performed a tactical kabedon by the Shazenkai booth. Didn' even blush, ¡but did let me talk 'bout my plan! Kozakura-san was on-board from step-one and convincin' Hien-sama was easy, even offered to pay for travel expenses . . . BACK to Eorzea to recruit some, hopefully soon-to-be, ex-refugees with particular specialities (hehe, I'm so clever~). I'd rather be off galavantin' w/ pirates again but if this is how I get connections then so be it.
And Mz. Gobbler is gonna be BEYOND excited to see me again~

6^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

Ahh, I'm not one for these vlog type things. I don' know much 'bout Eorzea, much less 'ashtags n' the like.
Wha' I can say is that me n' the Garlon' boys got on a'right. At first is was all the bán 'aired dude shoutin', "¡No, don't touch that!" and the lil' one sighin', "Welp, we lost another one today." Buncha' whiners actin' th' maggot, hones'ly; if i didn' touch that chibi fella we wouldn'a ended up in . . . well, I don' right know whadda call it.


Druids'll say it goes by a' few names; Tir na nOg; Tech Duinn; Mag Ildathach; all'in'all 't's an Otherworld where tha gods live, 'cordin' to leg'nd. Ever since I left the isle I figu'ed out the Otherworld was pro'lly jus' visions from 'llagan artifacts just like this one . . . 'lthough this one def'nitly has a diffr'nt vibe than the others. When I told 'em yours truly 'as experienced somethin' sim'lar 'fore they all paid proper respec's. They were talkin' to the daughter of a' druid after all~

Whether or not Gobbler-san knows it, if it wasn't for her efforts to diversify the Oronir's diet then their Okama bois wouldn't've offered to trade with Doma which wouldn't've given ME the influence necessary to get Mitsuba-san in on my little scheme. So complicated . . . but I'll do anythin' to ensure we put worker's rights at the foundation of this new Doman culture~

Kozakura-san told me that Garlean rule made this Doma Chōninchi biz a hard sell; they had just gotten out of slavery to return home and be asked to become slaves to a different regime. Ensurin' their wages will be competetive and guarantee 'nough free time to enjoy the Chōninchi they'll be helpin' build and work in, like, totally helps.

Very complicated stuff, but we got this. We plannin', we schemin'~

Pshhh Shkoooh . . .
¿What is last thing Lalafriend would think she'd see in the sky?

O, well, that's a pretty deep question Grapple. I thi--

Nah nah, 'cause it's airships.

By Sulevia, ¡I look good! Garlon' 'imself can be a bit of a puss but ol' Jessie Jaye 'as botha' style n' grace needed to be a desinger n' a leader. Plus, she convinced 'im they haddit in the budget to take me on freelance. I'll 'ave to 'ave a chat 'bout Limsa Lominsa union relations though, I ain' workin' withou' proper rep! 🛠️


Hey shorty, ¿do you know Yugiri-san over there? ¿Does she like ... social economics or uhh ... experimental fashion? ... ¡'Ey, ya ain't even listenin' to me! 😤

¡Ecce, the Prima Vista!
It and it's troupe were always the fascination of my childhood. Where others in Limsa Lominsa admire pirates of the sea and sky, I always thought the noble trade of theatre inspired the most awe and, at times, heartbreak; both in their stories and in the lives of the weary travelers who operated these troupes. Believe it or not my sister works on this ship too, though Ricotta Duplicanolle is always busy working on the next backdrop . . .

To be able to serve them food and speak with them about their craft is an honour, ¡the Lexentale familia puts on quite the festivities! Eheu, but between performances all across the Southern Sea Isles I have heard whispers that their patriarch, Jenomis cen Lexentale, took an expedition to some ancient ruins and hasn't responded to their linkshell requests . . . I guess it's time I send out a request of my own and help out my esteemed benefactors~

¡From Rabanastra to Ridorana and Orbonne to Golmore, we traverse ancient ruins in search of the Lexentale patriarch! Eheu, excuso, I'm having far too much fun. I am sure Jemonis would forgive the fantastical outfits and pretentious conversations about long forgotten lore; it's rare that one such as I gets an opportunity to decode old tongue and uncover the secrets of history.

While lil miss Mocha came by airship and Shirokaze by Yol, my favourite fiend, Nevermora von Gale, arrived via otherworldly portal; ¡it seems wherever adventure is so too are they! Even if they bring their fair share of trouble along the way . . .

With Jenomis cen Lexentale saved and our benefactors oh-so-kindly gifting us an airship of Garlond's own design, ¡we head our seperate ways! We had returned our Bangaa allies to Rabanastra to continue to good fight in Dalmasca and while the Prima Vista will follow the coast south, our fastest route to Doma will be as the crow flies, over The Burn.

Y'see, Shirokaze has made some serious headway with enshrining recognition of the Doman citizenry's right to unionization into law. One benefit to an aristocracy is that individual bias can lead to widespread change; not ideal, in my honest opinion, but so long as Doma is lead by men as pragmatic and flexible as Lord Hien then the dream of the Othard Worker's Union is a g--


Captured by the Allagan Empire and altered by aetherochemistry, this ghostly dragon was consigned to living out its unnatural life in the vast wastes of the Burn. The glimmer of intelligence faded from its eyes, the creature is driven purely by instinct, and brings its mastery over mist to bear against all who dare to set foot in its domain.

> [REESTABLISHING CONNECTION > LINKSHELL #0040291]


Minime, minime . . . non iterum . . . non nunc . . .


> AUTO-TRANSLATE ERROR; WAIT FOR REESTABLISHED CONNECTION
> REESTABLISHING . . . 82%
> VIDEO FEED ESTABLISHED; CONNECTION: POOR
> AUTO-TRANSLATE COMPLETE
> AETHER CURRENT CUT; OWNER DISCONECTED
> REESTABLISHING . . . FAILED
> ARCHIVING LAST TRANSMISSION; SENDING TRANSLATION

No, no ... not again ... not now ...

If one with the Echo was near your WoL/OC what memory would they likely experience? Would it be a good one or a bad one? Major or insignificant?


The Echo brings you into the memory in medias res:

The howling winds of Gyr Abania. The bleached sand blinding you. The sounds of battle long gone but still ringing in your ears. Bodies lay about but much of their armour is picked clean by salvagers and meat stolen by vultures. All that's left is the bleached bones of Ala Mhigans and Garleans alike, Nald'Thal refusing to differentiate between either. Perhaps there was never a difference in the first place.

The memory feels like it lasted forever and even when you leave you suspect it continues on in a loop somewhere behind those eyes.

The voice spun around me, the speaker unidentifiable in my fugue state ... although I would later learn piece together ...


Gobbie found Lala's hat.
I've got her cane.
Stranger, pick 'er up, we'll clear a route through all this.


Time passes ... the sound of metal cleaving into flesh, of aetheric currents crackling dangerously through the air ... before a great silence fills the arena, taking the breath of all involved.


¡That's the dragon bastard that took us down!
Ryumoya . . .
Stand back you two.
What the hells are you talkin' 'bout roujin, ¡you'll die out there!
Satis diu vel naturae vixi vel gloriae.
¡¿What!?

I stir awake but for a moment at the sound of that unforgettable voice:


". . . I have lived long enough to satisfy both nature and glory . . ."
Mm ... Your Garlean has not been left wanting in all these years, Brutus.

Optius pyr Richter
Legatus van Baelsar . . . cogitavi mortuus es.


The fire within burned brighter than the fire without. The fire to live on for those who fell around us and those like you whose self exile has been retroactively justified . . . those like me.

Just because you do not fight for the Imperium anymore does not mean I'll ever forgive you for what you did in Ala Mhigo . . . to Mor Dhona.

Regrettable deeds both, and only two of my myriad crimes, but let it be known I've never asked nor desired forgiveness. I've chosen to fight in the moment for what I know to be right. You were in need and so I aided.

¿Knowing who I was, what we did? We were monsters, villains; we should have stayed dead with no chance for atonement. The past was a mistake and the future should be left for those far wiser than us.

I hunt in the dark not for some pipedream of atonement; we would have to live a thousand years of service to the light to make up for our actions done in the name of the Imperium and its scheming puppet masters. Even then our hands will be stained red all the same and our reflections all the harder to look at. ¿Is that atonement to you?

¿Then why do you . . . we fight at all? How can we ever feel better if we will never BE better . . .

Ahh, so this is just as much about you as it is I . . .
Let me give you what advice has aided me, amicus. Where I find fulfillment in collecting these masks, you have collected allies from every tribe upon this star and given them hope for a better future, those three who were willing to die for you is proof of such. I know not of myself but I know you, Optius, have become someone better. You must live on or else there may not be a future for those wiser than us.

Non scio loquare ... gratias ago, I guess ... my retainers will escort me back ...

I will go on my own.

Et Gaius ... mea nomen est Peach Gobbler.



>LINKSHELL RECONNECTING ...
>RECONNECTING ... 92.5%
>RECONNECTED; CONNECTION: POOR
>TRANSMITTING TEST MESSAGE ...
>"HELLO WORLD"

7^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

O, ¿what have I been up to since the crash?
Spending quality time with an old friend . . .

¡Back in Gridania tha' C'erul Claws 'ave been ravagin' the Twelveswood again! I hate goin' to the Waila's for this sorta thing, they always resort tah violence when some words'll do jus' fine. Gettin' in touch with Butch is easy 'nuf, that amadán is either gettin' cabbaged or ridin' the king's precious daughter-wives >.> A lustful hare but they're one of the few dwella's who'll work with eitha' side at times like this.


¡Over in the Steppe I've been, like, makin' waves (pun intended) in the economic sphere! The One River lets us bring boats n'stuff straight past the 'Clave and into Reunion with relative ease. The biggest issue will be convincin' the Qesteiri elders to trade with us ijin but it seems like everyone speaks the language of favours; with the aid o' Mz. Gobbler's ol' yujin, Esugen-sama, we'll show them the power of cooperation in no time~

Gobbiefriendism is a big part of Gobbiefolk culture, from the wandering tribes Grapple Pie is from to the melting pot of Mutamix's workshop, pun intended. It inspired me to take up the pen and write something more than a cookbook, manifested as the LLCU charter. I have to be here and help, whether it's with Loudjox on gastronomy and logistics or Zhloe and the children in Menphina's Arms.

¡So when technocrats or stereotyping irrumatores step up, this little lady has to put them down! Admittedly, the remnants of Quickthinx Allthought's little militia have rather level masked-heads on their shoulders. I was prepared to haggle my mouthflaps off and was happily surprised to see that the trading of ideas and salvage was still an option; hopefully integration will be one as well as Idyllshire grows into the surrounding Sharalayan suburbia. Baby steps . . .

Dedean and Notched Bone, on the otherhand, needed a proper telling off for sending an adventurer on a wild goose chase getting toxicology reports and food like there isn't an abundance of the latter freely available. They were much more patient during my rant and didn't make any snide remarks under their breath so progress has been made, somehow. Praise Menphina, easy enough day . . . but I do need a drink.

¡Looks like news travels fast along shippin' lanes 'cause when I got there they was already packin'! They were pretty sus that I was just another goon 'ere to swindle some stuff while I, "Helped pack." Well, the only way to prove y'er word is to get down to wor-- ... ¡¿uwaaa, why are these sacks so damn 'heavy!?

I know you work at the drydocks often but really Mr. Pie, ¿¡the customs officer too!? By Byregot, wake me up when Fourth Astral Moon ends . . .

Ita, you saw the last post right, I have returned to Limsa Lominsa. Quaeso, halt the parties for some time, I'm here on business whilst I entrust the far east to Shriokaze and the unraveling ainigma in Gyr Abania to Mocca Lingona.

Apparently duo patricii ab Coerthas have been gallivanting about Eorzea proper in search of business contacts. The Limsa Lominsa Crafter's Union has so generously contacted me once more to act as a liaison during the final leg of their journey, here in La Noscea~

Honestly, I hate working with these hoity toity noble types, but if being their tour guide and praetoria could net us an exclusive deal in a largely isolated region (and, if I may add my bias to the mix, so near the blossoming city-state that is Idyllshire) then so be it. At least the verdant fellow seems all excited to be here, the cerulean one could bear to at least act with proper etiquette though . . .


Pshh . . . Koshhh . . . ¿Does Lalafriend see bluecoat in shadows? Grapple Pie thinks bluecoat wants to swindle Union's new jinglyshine tradefriend for special starread mechanism . . .

Well, let's just go have a nice, gentle conversation about how union goods could be shipped through Kraken's Arms' lanes, ¿yeah? ¡Mr. Pie don't go charging ahead like that! Eheu . . .

¿So how do you think Rowena manages to not pay workers in jinglyshine?

Pssshkoh ...
Tradeflock made of onethought uplanders that work in gobbielike harmony; make one allthought flock. Scrips are sign that worker can have trusttools, like Drydox book, even among those they noknow and thus freetrade goods of muchvalue.

So, ¿who needs jinglyshine if you can give someone a hoe to make food for you and dozens more? I guess Rowena and Idyllshire aren't so different, just one's an anarchistic city and the other's a questionable guild . . .

Koshhh ...
If use Rowena tradeflock's scrips and Gobbiefriendism of Idyllshire, flock could grow strong like uplander bigtribes. Make a swordswinger flock so large it could protect gobbiefriends all across Eorzea . . . like . . .

. . . like . . .

¿An Idyllshire Grand Company?

Roundrox told me of some strange machinery she found in the Maker's Quarter. Apparently they fly around of their own accord but danced vibrantly when she reached out to them, making the image of machinery or eatery as well as the silhouette of people like Goblins or an Au Ra. Naturally curious about these drones and hopeful that they could be reproduced and used to aid Idyllshire, I went in search with her, ready to find and repair some magitek. 🔎

Really though, they didn't even need a fix. It seems that the machinery here repairs itself despite time and the actions of Quickthinx Allthoughts's goons. The way they flew around me was surprising, like puppets tied to a string but with far more precision and less necessary focus. It reminded me of how some people describe their experiences with magic, a talent I am sadly predisposed to never perform -- perhaps in the same way Garleans use magitek, these were Sharlayan's answer to defending non-combative archons.

So Mr. Honalgi at the Moraby Drydocks is a good amicus of ours, Maelstrom being fairly neutral towards the Union unlike the dreaded pirate triumvirate >.>
As such, when he asked us to investigate Razyn Mylzyn's suspicious wood count in a, "discreet and . . . ethical way, or however you goody-goody types do it," we gladly took up the task 'lest our patronus fear another mutiny delaying yet another ship~
So we just walked up and spoke with him, the fear of Llymlaen already in him, and he told us he was low on cedar.


Great for its strength in even the harshest environs, cedar was mostly found in Coerthas before the Calamity. Nowadays its much harder but, with the help of botanists like Roiteloin and the lovely Fufucha Fucha, the forest has made quite the comeback these last 15 winters. Not enough to grow big, sturdy masts, mind you, but old enough that we can chop some old growth without fear of wiping out the entire wood . . .

. . . but that noise . . . it's not just the blizzard it's . . . ¡someone screaming for help! Wood count be damned, I have a new job to do and just the tools to do it~

Aetherology, chirurgery, and somanautery . . .
¡All these fancy words are NOT helping me right now!
Just feel on their connections . . . the drones to your fingertips, like strings of Nymeia threaded by Menphina . . . just focus . . . ¡and BLAST THIS FOOL!
...
Ms. Gobbler slowly opens her eyes, the charred corpse of a demonic Taurus strewn at her feet.
. . .
Ecce, ¡vivo!

Y'know ... I've been thinking ...
When I was young I wielded a sword and shield in defense of my country 'til my shoulder was struck and I could no longer defend even myself. Then I roamed Mor Dhona with but a single curved blade, striking back against those who threatened my newfound homeland . . . 'til my hips grew rigid and the years of a far-too-active life were cut short . . .

Now all thats left is my mind and while that makes me indispensable in the boardroom . . . I can't help but feel like I have to use this gift to help those in more immediate need. I still don't understand this Sagecraft business; I cannot use any other sorcery yet this magitek from Idyllshire interacts well with my blessing from Menphina. Perhaps as a Garlean who once wielded a gunblade, I shall use these drones to my and others benefit, even without the innate magical gift many Eorzeans possess.

... Now I just need a teacher ...

"¿Blessing of Menphina, Threads of Fate, Riding Aether Currents? It sounds as if you speak of a manifestation of The Echo."

8^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

Pshhh . . . Koshhh . . . Secretpages, day three of longtrip setup. No sealander suspects lalafriend and Mr. Pie of cleverguise. The captain have entrusted the two with gathering mission, a goodskill of both, and expects to set clothwing by sundown.

Shortstacks stick together, says Peachie Keen, and so this clan of two aid eachother in exchange of goodstuffs, saltyfish that stays fresh for manymoons, and of gathering spare wood for sealander repairs.


Eheu, ¡Mr. Pie . . . I think they're leaving early!

Pshh . . .
¡All of shortstack's hard work!


Kshh . . .
[Section Removed For Indecent Language]

Pirates are eazy to convince, havin' lived in Limsa Lominsa for so long it just comes naturally to me~

Gas 'em up a bit, do a few favours, and next thing ya know they'll start lettin' union vessels fish in the safety of the Kōgyoku-kai for a decent price. Perhaps it was Gobbler-sama's previous trip that made it hella eazy; food is the fastest way to anyone, even stubborn Rasho-san's lucwarm heart. Plus, with them cookin' for themselves leadin' to sickly recruits, maybe they need the help ...

The biggest help I could be, however, was to Tsukikage-sama and his dealin's with Kugane. Sometimes we must work with those we do not like and that port city is in equal measures a land of decadence and style but also a tyrannical hive of villainy under the many daimyos who compete for it. In a way we can divert their excess to the oppressed so ... I'll make sure it's worth it.

Plus, I got to meet two new friends in Suzume-chan and Hansaku-kun~

9^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

Desperate for reliable cork, Byrglaent of Wineport for all his wisdom in wine making clearly doesn't understand that the average worker cannot simply collect cork. It's a material made from a special kind of oak tree and, last I checked, oak natively grows in The Twelveswood ...

So I went out with Mocco Lingona to plead with the Sylphs for special access to these treasured trees; such is the process that they can only be harvested every decade and a half.


¿What's with the escort? I thought the Adder's et Wailers were confident in their abilities, not to mention Free.
C'url Claws been actin' up again. Trust me, this'uns good for the gil.
Can we jus' walk'in silence, ¿please?

After doing a little jig for a bunch of Sylphs, who don't even own the territory, I feel like a proper stulta >.>
So we trudged into Larkscall, without a guide, to find properly aged cork oak. FM Butch seems to keep their footing in even the densest brush. Even Twin Adders tend to stumble when off the beaten path; Butch's fleet feet alone convince me that they were, indeed, worth the gil.

Viera are uncommon here in Eorzea, often immigrating from the Far East to escape from their reportedly oppressive societies. As such, the many I meet are usually excitable folk and often take up mercenary work before properly finding their footing in more traditional, and less dangerous, trades. Butch, on the otherhand, is quite stoic. More akin to the rather questionable stereotypes about them I heard in Othard, although I hardly value anecdotes and stereotypes when I can make such judgements for myself.

¿Why are you saying my name into your linkshell?

Eheu, lets focus on searching for a while . . .


Minme, that one's been improperly cut, it wouldn't survive the process ... etiam minor . . .
¡Ecce, palma non sine pulvere! However, pealing the bark is a complicated process that's sure to draw some attention, ¿watch our backs, ita?

All Corked Up With Nowhere to Go
Lvl. 50 🕑8:24
Desperate to harvest the unique flora deep in Larkscall, merchants will gladly risk the dangers of the Twelveswood to make a pretty penny. If you want a slice of that pie for yourself, run in to aid the worried Lalafell and her Goblin colleague to be showered in praise and Gil~

Those three were certainly something else, I was worried our calls for aid would go unanswered ...
Butch told me later that they were Coeurl Claws, looking to see if we were worth mugging but I couldn't understand a word they were saying; beyond a dialect, it was like an entire insular language akin to those invented in isolated villages or island societies.

Besides . . . they didn't seem like they were threatening us . . . ¿maybe they just wanted an even share and Butch cut them a deal?

E-e-ego iruo, vidi creatura ¡horridam creatura! 😨

Kekeke . . . kshhh . . .
Pumpkin is same colour as lalafriend, ¡Peachie Keen has nothing to fear! 😎


¡Et th-that looks like, like a porto ad inferos! Nald'Thal provide. 😬

Pshhh . . . Kshhh . . .
It is only decour for the sleeping of saints, ¿why does uplander make speedyfeet?🧍‍♂️

I don't mean to alert you but ... ¿¡is that the Sultana!?

Pshhh Kshhh . . .
Even royalty can enjoy the evenings of Sleepy Saint's, ¿no?

¿But without her big burly body guard? She really has gotten bold ...

10^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

I'm back in Kugane for business, looking to swindle some contracts out from under the East Aldenard Trading Company's nose. The pirate G'ryhea Viloh was kind enough to grant us a place aboard the Enduring Victory, a spice trading vessel, for a low fee. The captain may work under the Galadion Accord but it's clear her ambitions lie ever higher ... something the Union hopes to foster in all its dealings~


Cap'n Viloh's a regular of Uzumaki so we've ... gotten close, professionally speaking, and had a lot of far-eastern specialties we wanted to try together. The pleasantly delicious, and boozy, Coffee Amazake1 started our day off right and ensured we would stay awake. ¡We only had one day before she had to set sail so even if it meant a restless night we would be sure to live it up!


My age and line of work generally discounts me from being a target for other women's affection ... so thank you. I've really needed this ... needed you~


Y'know ... as much as I talk it up I really haven't had a night alone with someone in a while.

Hearing groaning from the other room, Grapple Pie checks on his friend, after the big night . . .


Pshh . . . ¿what's wrong Peachy Keen?

I did EVERYTHING RIGHT Grapple, gave ALL the signs, confessed my little HEART OUT, but we make the Gaelicatnip tea and she just goes to SLEEP.
Kshhh . . . either Sealander head full of more gas than airship or muchdrink made kitty verytired.
You're probably right . . . I know she had to run before her ship sailed but . . . I would've liked to at least say goodbye . . .

As Shirokaze speaks with the pirates above, I bring my financial acumen to those who live beneath the waves. Without the looming threat of Garlemald affecting the daily lives of the Kojin, Lalarito's deals suddenly appear far less favourable as the average Kojin finds themself selling less goods and therefore garnering less gil than ever before. 'Tis the nature of Monetarists, to prey on the weak and make their ways seem so appealing . . . until one realizes only a handful are actually making those promised riches, many of whom are not even Kojin themselves. But I'm not just here to proselytize or claim to save, I am simply here to trailblaze.


Explore, Understand, Establish, and Connect.
Learning of new people's and cultures, figuring out how to best convince them that the desire for independence, mutual aid, and democratization is not only natural but part of the shared culture of all living beings; big and small; long and short lived; so-called civilized and those berated as mere tribes. Sometimes that lofty goal starts with a simple showcasing to Takotsubo-san that his manta ray transportation system is going to become an extremely lucrative business as Doman influence leaks into these waters~

Even if every second under the water puts the fear of Llymlaen in me . . .

A fine day to visit the first person who ever called me Auntie~ It was hard to believe my food was worth anything more than gruel for soldiers to idly munch on. When I entered the Dellemont the first time and got a four I was heartbroken but she saw something in me I couldn't see in myself; a kind and caring mentality that reminded her of an aunt she never had 😭

I never entered that stupid competition again, the only praise I needed was from my lovely niece. I may not understand her infatuation with H'mhasi Tia but Melkoko has always been a kind hostess and good friend, even if her loud mouth sends these old ears ringing ;p

I'll give ya a taste o' my fist if ya don' stop talkin' to yer linkshell like a gossipin' bitch. Speakin' of, maybe ya'd like to tell 'em all 'bout the goin's ons between yerself n' a Miqo'te of yer ow--

>LINKSHELL IMPROPERLY DISCONNECTED

11^th Winter of the Seventh Astral Era

Not again . . .

When the summer gets too hot and winters too cold I always come back to you. Coolest companion and warmest friend, ¿won't you hold onto me, once again, for a while longer?