Flight Permits. Of course those would be something important to have – the legal system was slow but when it caught you, it caught you, and to plead ignorance born from timetravel was hardly the best defense when it came to the gil-hungry bureaucrats of Ul’dah.
Thankfully, Igey managed to pull some strings during their brief visit to the Gates. Buying the permits would’ve been too costly, taken too much time, left a trail on paper that would’ve been far too easy to follow. No, they made under the table agreement, a trade of sorts – Howler and Igey would scout out Amalj’aa after their more recent odd activity, and there would be a flight-permit written for one Howler Kore.
Recorded somewhere, of course, but date of purchase and the required examinations would be mysteriously wiped clean from the archives. Honestly, this trade was a steal – far too favorable for the duo, on the second glance. Howler couldn’t help but to wonder if there had been a trap laid there, somewhere. An unspoken threat.
Good for them Howler had come prepared for the unspoken threats, already aware of the Rot.
But the Amalj’aa were not the ones Howler had their eyes on right now. You see, on the route to the Zahar’ak, there was a place Howler did not have the fondest of memories of.
Perched on top of one of the many ruined buildings of Sunken Temple of Qarn, Howlers eyes were solely focused on the large rockformation in the North, and the path leading up to its hidden pathways.
There was movement on the paths – guards milling about, unaware of the pinprick stare of one clone reliving some of their worst memories. Poison had a tendency to hide under honey, and the safety, the genuine effort to be pleasant… Oh how tantalizing, how alluring that had been.
Truly, the most bitter of poisons.
Howler lowered their hand, lip quirking up on one side – revealing one of their canines as a silent growl emanated from somewhere on the back of their throat.
Memory was another poison, one that corroded mind and soul…
Unlike the Corpse Brigade, who were walking along like there were no problems in the world. But even from here, Howler could hear the coughing, despite how the lower half of their faces were covered with basically anything they could get their hands on – a rag, bandanna, cotton scarf… only few were so lucky as to have something more hightech, like Howlers on mask that at least could filter the bigger particles out.
They’d be scrubbing sand from underneath their skin for moons to come…
Still, they kept going, ignoring the curious glances thrown their way from the guards and servants alike, as a lalafell was guiding them further down the path.
“And this is where most of our newest recruits sleep before they’ve earned their keep! Though I am quite certain you won’t be sleeping on half-molded hay for long my young friend, oh no. I see a long, bright future ahead of you – just stick by ol’ Dondar, do what she says and she’ll look after you.”
There was a wink from the lalafell that made Howler's stomach churn. And yet, they were able to tilt their head with a smile, even if half of it was covered up. “You’re too kind. I am surprised there was even bedding to begin with, I’ve grown quite accustomed to bare rock and steel by now.”
There was an angry tut of tongue from the lalafell, who shook her head in utter dismay.
“Now that’s just a shame! Honestly, what were they thinking – someone of your talent, sleeping in places of no comfort, of no appreciation. No no, this will not do. We’ll put you on good work, honest work, and by no time everyone else here will agree that you deserve something better. We must keep our top men and women at their best if we want them to give us their best!”
Howler merely chuckled quietly, the tirade being passionate and for once, didn’t ring with false promises or manufactured outrage. She actually believed what she was saying.
In a better life, in a better place…
Howler's musings were cut off by a sharp cry, causing their ear to twitch before they whirled around to look at what had just happened.
It was a child. Ten summers old, by the looks of it – maybe older, on the count of lack of food these days. Rags on their feet, dirt on their fingers, screaming and kicking now as a guard had lifted them up by the back of their tunic – which seemed to be ripping by the seams by the action.
Swinging in the air, the child was still screaming, trying to kick the offending guard – but their little arms and legs just could not reach. Even attempts at clawing at the heavy leather bracelets did nothing – they were stuck.
Howler froze, knowing that a single wrong move would jeopardize their main objective here.
“What’s… what’s happening?” they asked, slowly, forcing their heart-rate to go further down. First, information. Small hope bloomed, maybe the guard was heavy handed, and the kid would be fine after a scare.
Dondar clicked her tongue in irritation, eyes on the child while patting Howler's leg.
“A rat that snuck in for supplies no doubt. We have rules in place here, dearie. Important ones. It is the only way our operations can manage – and a single cog that turns in its own tune puts everyone else in danger.”
Howler didn’t like that answer. But Dondar completely missed it, only shrugging a little before tugging on the belts on Howler's boot, disdain for the situation rolling out in waves.
“Come now. Worry not for a single rat – we have our ways of dealing with them. Nothing you need to concern yourself with of course dearie, you seem like you understand the necessity of following the proper order.”
Howler nodded, quietly – something in their skin prickled.
It was only when the echoing, fading scream of the child spiked in the distance, and the sudden sensation of the rot calling for them that they understood why.
“A gil for your thoughts?” Igey’s voice cut through reality with a quiet tone. Eyes gazing up from below with a gathered snack in her hands for the clone to have something to eat that was more than a mild nibble. “You’ve sat here staring for quite some time.”
“Just some bad memories,” Howler replied – lowering their gaze finally, with a silent sigh. They were still tense, but just a little less so. “But it seems like I am sixteen years too early for a repeat.”
Without further elaboration, Howler shifted on their perch – allowing the clone to drop down, looking back up at Igey with a more easy going smile. “I guess it’s time to get a move on again? Those Amalj’aa won’t stalk themselves.”
There was a mild huff of a breath, and shake of the head, before Igey spoke. “And who else to do so, than a wolf at heart, hm? But even you need something more in you.” Those dried fruits and meat bites were handed over to Howler. Just a little bit. “For something to burn while we become the predators today.”
Howler merely gave a non-committal hum, picking up the treats before starting down on the path. Briefly, just for a split second, their fingers brushed against the stark white tattoo on their face.
The evening sank in with the relative ease of a work site could be considered. Distant sounds of workers going off shift for the night, while the graveyard workers swapped their places. Miners and tool clinking in quiet evening rest. While the skies remained ever blue and fogged over, it was noticeably darker to at least indicate the lowering of the sun beyond its blanketed barrier.
Both Igey and Howler sat upon a pipe to rest, people watching one could call it. Or rather just lost in thought while recovering from their harrowing encounter. It hadn’t been nearly as bad as that day in the Shroud, thank the stars, but it still had been stressful.
Igey opened her mouth to speak, but a sound caught her attention. Howler’s tombstone was buzzing, going off. Again.
Did she dare?
“... Your haunted device is once more demanding attention, Howler.”
“It always does,” Howler commented, gently poking at one of the thin, white lines that now snaked its way over Howlers collarbone. Bloody voidsent… Still, Howler let their newly acquired scars alone, and pulled out the tomestone – only to squeak a little.
“Oh that is- That’s a lot.”
The woman almost grimaced, as she crossed her arms. “Dare I even ask?”
“Well…” Howler started, before turning the tome over to let her see. “It’s not all bad?”
[ I WANNA HUG HOWLER OKAY, THEY SEEM LIKE A REALLY GOOD HUGGER AND CUDDLE BUDDY ]
[ I WANT TO HUG HOWLER SO MUCH. LOOKIT THIS ELEZEN. A CUTIE PATOOTIE. ]
“Huh, so you are right… Maybe we should pay more attention to these more often. At least from time to time. Whoever these two are, seem to be quite taken with you.” Igey spoke in a playful tone.
“I think it’s one and the same person, really,” Howler said, before looking towards Igey with an unamused look. “And you won’t be saying that for long. Behold.”
[ can igey step on me pleas ]
“Oh come on-” Igey’s arms threw up into the air in her frustration. That ever collected cool, and calm, self broken for the brief moment. Clearly, these things were ridiculous enough to get her to crack. “-What is with mortals these days?! Certainly not! Have some self preservation!”
“What can I say, you’re an attractive lady.” Howler grinned with all fangs out.
The woman huffed as her hands lowered back to crossing over her chest. Grumbling out, “Maybe I should punish them in not so fun ways…”
“Careful, they might take that as permission,” Howler snorted, and then started going through the messages again. “There is quite a few questions though… Let’s see what we can answer.”
[ so Howler, if timeline differences are so vast, are there different foods, like recipe's, that change? ]
[ what does howler like the most of solid foods? ]
“Oh, these should be easy enough?” Howler let Igey see the questions briefly before starting to think how to reply. “... Well, we didn’t exactly… have foods on the latter half of Thenwise. But I like the taste most. Texture second.”
“This aligns with how you spoke of… Your diet and lack there of.” Igey’s voice was displeased but not with the Elezen. Just the situation that they had come from. “It was more vitamin blocks of a sort, yes? Or strips? You only hinted to a degree. Were these flavored or no?”
“Pills,” Howler corrected, without a thought. “Soldier pills, namely. Hyper-condensed to have all the vitamins, minerals and calories a body needs in a daily intake. With occasional bar for fibre and mass for the stomach, but we had to start rationing those out after we moved to Garlemald base.”
The woman hummed in understanding, one hand now resting at her chin with a thumb and forefinger. “I see. While the pills sound incredibly useful, even for now, I can see the issues that lay within and need the bars. With Garlemald, well… It’s so frozen over, and in a situation like that, supplies would be scarce. That makes sense to me. Both a good defensive position, yet also life threatening. Hm. In that case, we need get you more food in you. For your further opinions.”
“I don’t know what to do with all of these calories you’re pumping in me…” Howler snorted, but then tapped on the screen again.
[ Howler, would you consider Gridania a home location, or Thanalan? ]
“... Neither,” Howler replied, softly, before looking away. “Thenwise was my home. The base in Garlemald was my home. This timeline has… it has not provided a ground where I dare to grow roots yet. Not yet.”
“... So instead, you let your roots become wings to soar the clouds instead of swim the earth?” Igey commented back softly. Did she just use poetics?
Howler only smiled a bit in return at first. “Mayhaps. I’ve always been a wanderer at heart, perhaps wings over roots was always meant for me. At least now my roots may have a movable pot.”
“Heh.” A smile graced the shorter woman’s features in return, arms lowered to her lap. “You’ve never sounded more like your family than that moment. Well done. Always needing the wind under your wings.”
“A Kore is a Kore,” Howler agreed, before looking down. “Speaking of the airship….”
[ local basement ̸͎̖̙̿█̶̻͇͂█̸̘͔̪͋͛̾█̷̼̠͛̎̇█̵̞̈̊͐ͅ█̷͚̽͋͝█̶̬̫̩͊ found, everyone prepare your howler treats to make them run around at high speed, and deny sleep for █̸͎͉̉̆̅█̷̗͛█̸͖̺̓█̷̯̈́̕█̸̺̓͊͛█̵̜͓̭̂͒̚█̵̨̈́ ]
“Huh… That keeps happening. Wonder what keeps getting censored.”
“Hm… Odd… Could be a restriction of fonts, or text types, that your tomestone lacks? Might need a system update.” Her eyes narrowed behind those sunglasses. Huffing harshly as if the very word, or lack of word, offended her. “But you will certainly not be keeping me awake, Howler. I may be the local tank, but I enjoy a good sleep.”
“I am more surprised they knew I was going to make your room in downstairs.” Howler mused, not commenting on anything else.
“Wait, that wasn’t just a joke?! You are putting me in the bloody basement?!”
“Downstairs, not a basement!”
Igey could only lift her hand and pinch at her brow. Heaving a long, suffering sigh. Acceptance.
With a giggle, Howler scrolled and… froze.
[ hold up, wait a minute, estinien?! ]
“We aren’t going to talk about him.”
A shift of body, and Igey glanced at the message as well. “The azure dragoon?”
Howler very slowly turned their head towards Igey, face neutral for the most part – aside from slightly widened eyes. An unnatural smile came up on their face – small, toothless, one that did not reach their eyes.
“We. Are not. Talking. About him.”
Igey knew trauma and uncomfortable body language when she saw it. And here it was like a god damn beacon. Igey didn’t flinch, lean, show difference. She immediately nodded instead. “Very well. Understood. We move on.”
Head tilted down, finger reached out to scroll further on the Tomestone herself. “Ah, this one seems rather apt, considering our quest.”
[ I GOTTA KNOW WHERE THE ROT CAME FROM, DOES ANYONE KNOW?!? ]
“Hm.” The woman sat straighter now, head tilting back to stare at the darkened skies above. “If I were to answer, I couldn’t give you a positive answer. Just theories.” One hand lifted with a finger pointed upwards, in that same, almost professor like way, she sometimes gets.
“Which is more than what we had. Rot came completely out of nowhere for us, and it took ages to track down where the first seeds were planted. Even now, I only know it came for the Voidsent first….” Howler commented, making a small sigh. It had been about survival then… Their parents had tried to stop it at the source, and failed.
That hand and finger lifted twirled a bit, as if she danced her thoughts around the finger itself. “That would make some sense. Especially given the hunger it has, lines up with Voidsent quite easily. A similar niche to infect… But seeds, hmm… Yes, I can see the comparison. But in this case, it is already dead before harvest.” Head lowered once more, instead staring at the ground below the pipe they sat on. “Every time we have come across these, something… Prickles, at the back of my mind. But when it is particularly strong, like in La Noscea, it’s a familiarity I can not ignore. Not just from encountering it previously.”
Igey’s head turned then, just enough to look towards Howler. But her eyes were peeking from beyond red sunglasses, purple eyes intense in their gaze, almost aglow. “My soul recognized it. That thing, that rot, originates from something far, far older. I can not give you a confirmation, but it certainly has the weight of ages. It is beyond even the time we have here and now. And has been fermenting in rage and rotten decay.”
“Is that a fact, or just your professional opinion?” Howler asked, trying to lighten the mood even a little – suddenly, the idea of facing something far older than the Star they currently were walking on sounded… something far beyond their paygrade. They were no Warrior of Light, or even a Scion – despite being trained by their remnants.
“Professional opinion spiced with experience. Making it an unpleasant plate to eat. Again, only theory. Could also be something far more simple of just a very angry Voidsent. Anyway, we move on.”
[ So tell me little young Elezen, what do you know of ancients? Of the old world before even this new one? ]
“I… know precious little, and even less of the second part?” oh, oh Howler- “They didn’t have time to explain any of that, between fighting and surviving and trying to figure out why the world was rotting-”
Instead, they turned towards Igey.
Igey blinked a moment behind the sunglasses. And slightly leaned away. “... I can only teach to a degree of the ancient civilizations. However, that is a lesson for another time, hm? When it comes up, then it comes up in the world. Like bronze lake. Yes?”
Howler let out a small, disappointed sound from the back of their throat before looking the tomestone again. “Sorry, I really don’t know all that much… Kind of wish I did. I was told something about Sundering, but none of the details…”
“Now that is a subject for something much later. Much, much, later.” Igey’s voice was a lot more firm than she intended it to be.
“Noted,” Howler nodded quickly, before looking for the last newest message.
[ howler how do you feel about dragons? ]
“Uh… I’ve never met one, so I wouldn’t be able to make a comment. They uh. They’re all dead in Thenwise.”
“All of them…?”
Howler let out a quiet, sad laugh. “All of them. If any survived, they never appeared anywhere near us. Isghards fall took out over three quarters of their numbers if boss was correct, you don’t… really bounce back from that. Especially if you’re being actively hunted right after.”
“By Sol.” Igey whispered with a heavy weight, grimacing. Even saying an old world expletive. “... Well… When, not if, when we manage to get north… There will be plenty of Dragons. Not all friendly. Best stay on your guard just in case.”
“So what you’re saying is, we need to get guns for the airship?”
“Absolutely not!” Immediately Igey sat straighter, one arm reaching out and placing on Howler’s shoulder quickly and giving a light shake. The other hand pointing at them. “We’re not mounting any weapons on it unless absolutely neccesary!”
“I don’t know, you’re making it sound like it might be necessary-”
The woman groaned, her arms lifting back into the air in exasperation. “Impossible, you are. Sometimes so bloody impossible.”
“That was… deceptively easy,” Howler commented, as they were checking the knots on the ropes – for the third time in the past two minutes. “Did we catch them on a bad day?”
Deceptively easy, Howler had said. In truth, they had used the fog to cover for their advance. Not to mention that between Howlers natural stealth and Igey’s uncanny strategic mind, the duo easily took out the stragglers… before diving into the mainforce.
Which wasn’t much of a challenge after the loners on the edges had been knocked out and tied up.
“Hm… Too easy, actually.” Igey enunciated, putting more emphasis on the previous comment. Her head on a swivel. “This feels as if they are missing some numbers, or prepared for something else. Stragglers or no…”
Howler let out a thoughtful hum in response, before lifting their head up – and then tensing up. That was half a second warning for Igey before the shout from the yard. The blue haired woman’s head snapping towards Howler, wide eyed-
“Dalamud! My liege! Save me! My blood and soul, I give unto thee!”
It was a woman. Soft red hair and modestly dressed. Had Howler walked past her on a normal street, they wouldn’t had batted an eye. But here, with the eternal blue fog, surrounded by ruins and aether that tasted all kinds of wrong, with air tainted with the taste of copper? It gave Howler a good pause.
The air crackled, and Howler suddenly felt a lurch in their stomach – eyes flicking over to Igey briefly. She felt something that Howler had not felt from her before-
Worry. And shocked panic.
Igey knew that energy in the air intimately, exactly what was about to pull through the aether like a blade rending through its victim. The woman’s hand holding her great sword in an instant. “Howler! Move…!” Her voice was a harsh shout. This was not something that had to do with corruption, was dragged down, or mindless.
Igey knew… This was a Voidsent, pure to the core, with the cunning and hunger that went with it.
And then… the eyes locked on to her target. Not Igey, who was connected to the Voidsent by more ways than one. Igey, who had the skill and ability to demand the attention of every enemy in the room. Igey, who had been sent to help, and who had become a wall to block hurts and pains.
It locked on to Howler.
“You!”
Howler jolted back, ears flicking back ever so slightly – the malice, hatred, sour and sharp taste of fear. It was a veritable wave of powerful, negative emotions, a surge they had not expected.
Even with the conditioning and training they had done, it caused the young Elezen to jolt backwards in shock. One half-step backwards.
That might’ve saved Howler's hide, as the claws suddenly struck mere ilm away from where their eyes had just been.
“MOVE!” Igey’s voice repeated, almost like a roar now. Her figure lunging forward with all the speed and might of a forward fighting combatant. Great sword taking a mighty swing at the Voidsent in an attempt to force it back, and draw the ire.
But it was locked on target.
It, she, wanted them.
“What the- I’m trying!!” Howler hollered, barely avoiding another swipe – the claws nicking at the bridge of Howler's nose, where an old jagged scar rested. A quiet hiss escaped from the clone, as they quickly dashed backwards, hoping to get more distance – as curious as this behaviour was, up-close and personal investigation was deemed too unhealthy of a choice right now.
Too bad the Voidsent did not seem to agree with Howler's decision.
“She’s not lettin-”
Howler's words were cut, as they hopped backwards – and suddenly felt their ankle roll. A loose piece of rubble had found its way underneath at the worst time, and Howler let out a small yelp as gravity did what gravity does – pull one down once balance had been lost.
Or at least, that was what Howler expected, harsh ground and grit on their skin. Instead, something yanked them up with a violent whiplash, their neck already aching. Howler managed one look – the claws under the belt that went over their torso, that had ripped into the shirt and skin beneath – before their vision blurred again in a flurry of motion.
Gravity finally claimed its prize, as Howler suddenly found themself airborne, thrown away from the Voidsent and towards more rubble. Closing their eyes, bracing for impact-
- there was a loud crash of rotten wood and unstable stone meeting with flesh, as Howler's body disappeared inside the ruins.
A shout of their name, full of desperation and rage, echoed into the crags of stone and desolate ruins surrounding them. It had been a grand total of 2, maybe 3, seconds. Fast and immediate. This was a creature that had been ready for a fight, but sparked far worse just by presence alone. It was targeted. And… Survival.
No time to analyze the why for now.
Igey’s gaze snapped back to the female voidsent with a low rumbling noise in the back of her throat. The air immediately changing several degrees in temperature, and dropping. That great sword crackling with an ominous sound.
That ice blade lifted in one hand with ease, pointing towards the foe upon this battle field. That would soon become a grave. “No void sown pocket shall save you from the fate you have wrought.” Every word spoken with a slow, calm, venom. Consonants sharper than any broken glass, every vowel sparking like flint and steel.
With the combination between the words, chilling air, and strange aether bubbling up, it finally drew the Voidsent’s attention away from the Elezen she had just sent flying. Now sending her full focus onto Igey. Giving that almost cocky laugh of hers. “And what could you-”
It didn’t get to finish.
Igey suddenly vanished in a swirl of shadow, of void itself. Making the creature sputter in surprise, jerking forward at the unexpected spike of power. But that split second was all that Igey needed as her figure rematerialized behind this target. Bringing her great sword down in a curving arc. Not a sound leaving her mouth, just the hiss of ice through warm flesh and vitae as the voidsent screeched in pain. Rounding upon her with a newfound confused fury.
Swift spins, claws trying to swipe, but missing every attempt. Igey didn’t so much as blink, each sword blocking a hit, parrying a spin here. Even a spell flung her way was defended against like it was chaff alone. All the while her aether was becoming thicker, heavier. Enough to dull sounds that would have once echoed here, now no longer carried.
“I need.. More…!” It was becoming abundantly clear this was not just a mortal. This was something else. Someone closer to their own. Something… But it couldn’t be. No!
With hunger, desperation, a demand for more, the Voidsent spun upon the other cultists still bound. It wanted to devour them for more strength, lunging for the closest one with a starving hiss.
Only to suddenly be met with Igey herself, in the Voidsent’s face. Inches away-
And a spike buried into the chest made of ice.
It gurgled and choked, coughing upon aether thick air, and frozen blood that was rapidly slowing within its veins. Sliding down the edges of that sharp stake. As ice began to spread across it, enveloping every inch like a cocoon of death. “You shall become an example… And no, your death? Shall not return you to the thirteenth.” Igey leaned closer to the voidsent’s ear, whispering low in her throat. “I’ll ensure your soul is ripped asunder to the sea before you can escape me… There are fates worse than death.”
“You… You are… The Ascian, your hand, our world-”
“I was your beginning. Now, I am your end.”
It was now a scream. Full of terror. That final sound escaping the voidsent who tried to claw out of the ice, escape death. With one final breath, arm reaching for the cloud covered skies. And then, blissful, silence. Leaving a figure of ice and death behind. As aether bled right out of it, anything left of energy, of soul- ejected with force.
Igey ended it. Utterly.
The silence that fell over the area was dense and suffocating, the temperature still sharply cold, a fog flowing across the grounds. You could’ve heard a pin drop – but instead of pins, there was the sound of rock shifting, and a young soul softly groaning.
A hand appeared on the edge of the stone that had once been a doorframe, before Howler pulled themself up right – blood staining the side of their head, and chest. There was a sway on their step, their balance a debt they couldn’t afford to pay right now.
Free hand on the side of their head, Howler let out a low moan, trying to keep themself steady. Illogically, their thoughts went on to their goggles – thankful for the thicker pair, as their old pair was demolished all that time ago in the Shroud. Small mercies disguised as clever planning and thinking ahead.
Footsteps brought Igey to Howler’s figure, offering her hand and arm to help them balance until the center of gravity could re-establish for the injured young elezen. “Easy. You have a concussion. How are you feeling? Anything broken?” Her voice was tense. Firm. Concerned yes, there was relief as well, but still a simmering anger acted as a background spice. It wasn’t covered up so to speak, more so it was already expelled and just fading away the dregs.
Howler let out a small groan in response, hand looking for Igeys before their eyes scanned for the results of the fight. “What happened-”
Right, wait, first status update. “I… think I’m fine. Some bleeding, but I don’t think I broke anything…. Vital…”
Howlers eyes focused on the frozen, impaled figure.
“... Igey. What happened?”
“I handled it. Come, we need to go before another decides to try a trick again, and you need to be checked over.”
“Wha- what you mean handled it-” -the pitch in Howlers voice rose just an octave or two, as their eyes kept going back to the frozen statue, and Igey who was clearly not giving the full story. “Igey, that-”
The woman tugged Howler forward gently, helping to guide them and manage walking normally again. “-is no longer a threat. That is what it is. Before anything else, your injuries need tended, and these cultists need hauled off. Or do you want a second encounter?”
There was a click of teeth, as Howler promptly shut their jaw. SIlently, they mulled that over as they were being escorted… and then just as quietly, muttered under their breath; “We will have words later.”
A hum was all Howler got in return, as the woman snatched a tied cultist by the scruff, and began dragging them with her other hand.
Bluefog had earned its name – it felt like eternal night had befallen the whole area, with its darker, softer shades of blue staining the very ground they walked on. Howler didn’t mind, for the most part – it was beautiful in its own unique way. If there just weren't all these monsters roaming about…
But Howler wasn’t here for sightseeing, even if they wanted to sit down and wax poetic about the visuals. Maybe they could send a letter to Amon and recommend a quick look… or the viera of the Shroud. Come to think of it, all this blue did remind Howler of that silent fighter. How were they were doing…
Best to send a letter for both of them, really. But first, business.
The guard was quick to motion towards the camp, giving a fair warning of the difficulties laying ahead. Howler, ever polite, bowed in response, and started heading down the worn roads with Igey right by their side.
Howler was looking about, humming to themself… until they noticed it. “... Stingy today, aren’t you? You have words, yet won’t share.”
This place brought back many memories for the woman. Not of this place exactly, per sey, but of similar locations. The skies above, the smell in the air- colleagues now long gone and dead. One day they will see another day, but that is far from here…
However, she could hear that voice in her head. Strict, harsh. The pricing of what they needed with that tone of voice. Emet-Selch knew damn well how hard it can be to acquire the naturally occurring fuel source, it was why he had designed a whole plant just to get at that resource back in Garlemald. Spoke about the brilliance and dangers of it when he was first building that empire.
This was going to become a problem very quickly in the future, if they truly wanted that airship to leave the ground. Expenses, acquisition, parts for efficiency…
“Your words once more color your pallet like a painter. Feeling creative, are we?” Igey spoke up with her ever calm tone, gaze taking in everything around them.
“Careful now, I might take that to heart and start painting the airship before she’s ready to fly,” Howler snorted. “Maybe some flames on the side? I’ve heard those are quite popular these days.”
The woman made a muttered grumble at the idea, moving on to answer the posed inquiry. “To answer your question, Ceruleum, while powerful, is expensive here. Even more so with the world events at large. It is not easy to get either, while here in Eorzea, unless you work for Ironworks. Is there no other option for fuel for this? Or even a conversion system, to better stretch it further, and mix, like a hybrid system?” Honestly, she would prefer Solar but, that would be limited to daylight most times… And it was not her own studies of it, but rather a nature bound woman and a sun driven man from long ago.
Howler let out a hum – considering her words, the earlier playfulness was gone now. Instead, those periwinkle blue eyes seemed to harden, as mental calculations took over. Stock and inventory of what they already had, what they could do.
“In theory, yes. But we have neither the parts nor resources to get those parts in such short notice, and I’d have to draft completely new blueprints to make that happen. To use an analogy, our ship is akin to a hyper-carnivore, a hunter that moves in high energy bursts. To force it to become an omnivore just for our convenience is nothing short of cruel, especially since we do not have a scalpel sharp enough to start a surgery to make it into what we need.”
Though, they did place a hand on their chin, letting out a small hum again. “That being said, I think I can jury-rig something together for the interior. Not the engines, but the smaller things, such as the kitchenette and lights indoors. But that is as much as we can do without a proper workshop, man-power, and mountains of gil at our disposal – ceruleum is still our go-to fuel.”
Now that was an idea, making Igey tilt her head. “Now, I might be able to solve the gil-”
Howler suddenly froze, causing Igey to pause as well. Ready for a fight. But no, it wasn’t a fight Howler was getting ready for – instead, their eyes were on a lalafell with keen eyes that was jogging towards them. And they did not stop – instead, they ran around them, examining, considering, humming under his breath.
“Hm hm hm… you’ll do!”
“Pardon?”
“Heard you were looking into getting some ceruleum – now, I can’t promise barrels and barrels of the stuff for free, but I can offer a discount! … As long as you grant me a… small favor in return. Beforehand, really.”
There was no pause, no hesitation, only eyes that saw potential fix to a particular problem. A fix that also had a peculiar problem of their own, one the lalafell was uniquely qualified to offer at least some assistance.
Howler turned towards Igey, then back towards the lalafell, with a raised eyebrow. “... what kind of favor?”
The woman’s brows furrowed above her sunglasses, arms slowly crossing with her hip jutted out slightly. Watching this new option before them. Howler had already asked about this favor, so now she was locked in before she could even debate. Just nodding her head for them to go on.
What fills your OC with envy? Alternatively who does your OC envy and why?
Ugly OC Asks 🔥
Uufh, this is really hard one since Howls isn't really all that jealous person even on the worst days -- or maybe I just haven't found the right buttons to press so far.
Howls does get some gender-envy here and there with Igey, when she can look so pretty with little to no effort -- unlike Howls who is limited by quite a bit.
And on really bad days, they can get a little bitter-envious when seeing kids running around, being carefree -- it's harsh reminder of what was taken from them. What they were denied.
Sadly some conditioning from their past have also made them think they don't really deserve a lot of things, so their jealousy is quick and easily squashed down as 'I don't actually need that, and there's no point of me being jealous since I don't deserve it'.
The sun was bright above, with a gentle and comfortable breeze to bring a cool sweep of air to combat the ever rising heat. Thankfully, today was not another stressful one, it was a day for calm. Igey sat under a cooling set of branches, and cloth, within the outside seating area of Ul’Dah, awaiting Howler to join her after having vanished within the nearby tent. They had a new outfit to try for today, a lovely tea and snacks lunch to treat themselves.
The woman had just minutes prior, gone out of her way to indulge Howler a bit in the simpler things of her makeup. Done enough concealer and contouring, with complimentary eyeshadow, to try and match their dress. Alongside redoing the Clone’s hair to sweep it aside in a more favorable way. Sure, it wasn’t something meant to be permanent, but rather to enhance traits for a simple day most normal people could have.
Something that they had been sorely lacking, Igey believed.
And she was so very thankful for a combination of Amon’s catalogue she had gone through for the pieces, and the excitable Au’ra in Ul’dah to help bring the outfit fully to life, dye and all. While she herself has hand made a rather cute ant themed necklace.
Now all that was left was to wait for Howler to return fully changed, after having ordered their drinks and food-
“How do I look?”
The voice drew the woman from her thoughts of outfits, to see Howler themselves in the look of the hour.
Hesitant smile on their face, the make-up had taken away their scars – both from the rot and from battles not spoken of. Tattoo as well had been marked away, per Howlers request – simple enough.
But that wasn’t what we were mostly focusing on – it was the dress, softer pinks mixed with darker hues and whites, with dark gloves that by no means should have worked if it hadn’t been for the equally dark accents.
With every move, the lower part of the dress seemed to shimmer and shift hue ever so slightly, from orange to red to pink, but it was subtle enough not to be an eye-sore. Patterning on the puffier sleeves – made to hide the prosthetic – also worked fantastically. Especially with what Igey had in mind.
Overall, it was a far softer look, something that did not often grace the clone known for their practical clothes and colder tones.
A smile graced the womans face, quite pleased that the outfit looked as lovely as it did. “You look positively radiant, my friend. I knew you could look good with this. Hm…” Still with that expression, she pondered. Motioning for Howler. “Bend down if you would a moment? I think a little extra detail is in order.”
Howler blinked at that, but dutifully went down on one knee – carefully lifting the fabric not to stain it by accident.
A shifting of her clothing for her to access her pouches, just to pull something lightly colored and almost fluffy? That hand reached out to softly tuck it into Howler’s hair, clipping it into place at the side. It was not fluffy, but rather petaled. A full flower head with soft ribbons on a hair clip, just above the Elezen’s ear. “There. Perfect fit.”
Howler couldn’t help but to blink a couple of times, carefully brushing against the flower before a small smile rose on their lips.
“You spoil me.”
“I wouldn’t call it spoiling. More so, ensuring you get good things, and keep them.”
Igey lowered her arm back once more, to take a sip of her tea. Humming at the flavor of it, before motioning across from her. “Now, indulge, and enjoy yourself, Howler.”
Howler let out an amused hum, sitting down with the treats and tea – their nose almost instantly noticing the more unique scent that came out of the drink. They gave a small whiff, before daring to take a sip.
The rich, deep taste took them by surprise – it wasn’t bad, by all accounts! Just. Not quite what they had expected. Best to drink it with small sips, and focus on the crumpets – this was far heavier of a drink than they had anticipated, and honestly they were here from the treats, not drinks.
Igey’s tea cup soft clinked back down as she took a long and content breath. Ever the woman who loved many kinds of Tea over Coffee. “Hm, I do have a curiosity.”
Her expression turned towards Howler in her interest, with that small smile. Hand lifting to gently wave in the air. “I have noticed something, and wish to confirm, but you have not chosen one pronoun or another, and never seem to correct anyone we come across. What would you prefer those pronouns to be?” Igey knew she should have asked long ago, but it never seemed that Howler… Really cared, one way or another. But now she was seriously buckling down for this.
Howlers ear twitched ever so slightly, and for a moment, they paused… and then, gently, placed their cup down – knowing this was going to be a discussion and a half. Usually they didn’t bother correcting people to avoid this topic, as most people seemed to have… odd reactions to say it kindly.
There was a silent hum under their breath, as they closed their eyes… and then gave Igey a sad smile. “In all honesty, it depends on the person. I myself have never seen myself as any gender, so to speak, but it really varies from person to person what I am most comfortable with. Hence why I do not correct people.”
“Hm… I see.” The woman gave her own look in return, hand lifting to her chin. “I’ve seen such reactions over the years as well, and know of which you speak… However, that is no right to ignore your preference nor comfort, Howler. That is an explanation, but not a real answer, my friend.” She motioned with that hand now, in a sort of go on motion, opening the proverbial floor to the clone. “You know I shan’t judge here.”
There was a quiet chuckle, and Howler gave a small nod… before placing their hand on their chest. “Well... this is going to be a long explanation. But most people have certain biases about what certain pronouns entail – sometimes small, sometimes big, sometimes it is something they aren’t aware of at all. I myself do not care so much, but when someone whose feelings do not match the pronoun spoken, it is like… glass cracking against my ear. Not just the sound, but the physical feeling of my ear-tip shattering.”
They paused for a moment, trying to find a way to explain it even better – but this was always a topic that they struggled with, no matter how well they tried to word it. “Mind you, not all of these biases are bad. Most of them are not, in fact. But they are there, and they affect emotions – and since I can feel what others feel…”
“... It leads you to not change or correct, for your sake.” Igey nodded as Howler trailed off, finishing the thought. Her thoughts now taking a deep turn, expression with a furrowed brow. It was a longer quiet while the woman gathered her words. “You should still deserve your choices, but your unique existence and power certainly changes the rules, doesn’t it?”
Her arms crossed, exhaling a long breath. “I ask, as my old home and life, may it rest in peace, had a very… Different outlook, on such things.”
“Oh?” Howlers eyes lifted from the table, hand now lowering back to their lap. “How so?”
How does she begin to explain? The blue haired woman met Howler’s gaze fully then, deciding to do the best of which she could. “While yes, we had clearly defined male, and female, there were also those in between, or those whom were neither, or both, or something else entirely. Sadly, most of that language and the terms do not… Translate easily to the language of these lands. A barrier of that sadly, but some places may have something similar. Tuliolal for example might have something similar, more referencing to identity of soul or spirit. But that’s for another day.”
Instead, Igey returned to her original topic, one hand lifted with an extended finger now more into the education ways of her speaking. “We did not discriminate for something such as that, you see. It was a respect for one whom identified themselves and knew their body and soul so deeply. Nor did anyone really judge whom anyone loved, or married, in any way. You see, our differences or eccentricities did not pull us apart, as our people had far more in common than otherwise. Here for the people and the star… So thus, I find myself asking what you would wish for. What you would prefer in this case.”
Oh. Well. “That explains why there hasn’t been a crack… here I thought neutral pronouns were just your favored one for me.” Howler mused hand on their chin as they looked thoughtful.
“The ones I have been using are the closest I can come currently, to my old language. Do, continue.”
The clone then gave a small, apologetic smile. “That might be an issue… For you see, I never have thought of myself with any pronouns. I do not have a singular preference for myself, aside from what the individual talking to me prefers. If Pearl was to call me anything but a girl, that would’ve hurt, and if Silas had chosen anything but the male equivalent…”
There was a helpless shrug. “I fear I cannot help in this manner, aside from telling if there is discomfort in your voice you yourself might not be aware of.”
Igey was left blinking a few times behind those red tinted sunglasses. Staring them down… Then, a defeated sigh came free. “Well that… Certainly does not help… Were it not for the limits of this language, I would have helped you with more.” But there was the barrier. The understanding, and the language, of it all. Making the woman grumble in her frustration.
“They and Them it shall stay until you tell me otherwise.”
Howler let out a small laugh, picking up a crumpet from the tray. “I shall tell you if any other pronoun you use by accident makes my heart sing.”
That got a chuckle out of the woman in return, alongside a nod. This would work. “Very well then. And I shall avoid shattering your poor ears.”
“Anyways, with that out of the way, I’d like to speak of your… Our, airship project.”
“Finally admitting it is indeed our airship?” Howler teased gently, before nibbling on the honey crumpet.
And now Igey huffed. “If it is to be such an undertaking and be used vigorously, I can not deny that it is, indeed, ours… Do not look so smug about that. Anyways, yes, what is it we still require?”
That got Howlers attention, as they nibbled on the baked good, eyes looking up thoughtfully. Finally, after swallowing, they started to count; “We need to secure the fuel, for one. Flight permits, if we don’t want to get pulled over by every major port. Some hull materials are still needed, though not obscene amount… Oh, and some appliances indoors – the kitchen is decent, but I’d like to furnish it a bit. Make the airship into a proper headquarters, with bed and all so we don’t have to be on the mercy of the elements every night. There is some screens on the upper decks that need replacing too, if we want to be able to see where we’re going.”
The woman listened intently with a nod. Mental notes. It was clear by now whenever she was taking those. Her tea in hand while taking slow sips. And then a pause as an idea sparked… With a laugh! The tea set down as her smile turned almost smug, or mischievous. “Well, I know just where I can get appliances for that kitchen, as well as finer points for the screens and internal technology… I am sure my old colleagues no longer need them.” The words were spoken with confidence.
Howler gave a surprised look – eyes wide, ears drooping just a little bit. “You certain they won’t mind?”
The woman leaned forwards then, Igey’s arms on the table as they held her up with a very confident expression that only grew. “Oh, I am quite sure. One is rarely around to make use of their things, and it is only a storage anyways for just this sort of occasion. And the other? They are long gone, and as such, free for grabs.”
There was a pause as Howler went through everything that had just been said, before slowly, softly, they reached over… and patted Igeys hand. Resting it there, giving a gentle squeeze. “I’m sorry for your loss.”
For Igeys words might’ve been jovial. But underneath it all, under the excitement, under the happiness of ideas, there was something far heavier. Something unspoken.
But, she seemed to ignore it entirely. Giving a hum, with her thumb gently brushing Howler’s hand. “It’s old. No longer a thought. Anyway- not the point…”
Quickly, the woman moved herself on to the next question. Humming while leaning further back on the seat now. “However, I do wonder just how… Hm… How much we may need, this will be more of a tool, than for leisure, yes?”
“A home,” Howler said softly. “It’s… it’s going to be a home.”
“... A home, as to avoid my insistence upon one?”
“Just because it’s on air doesn’t make it any less of a home, if you make it into one.”
“Hm… Fair enough, one does make home where they are…” Much to Igey’s twitch of an eyebrow woes. “All the same it shall be quite useful in many ways.”
Howler was quiet for a moment, snack in their hands as those periwinkle eyes locked on to Igey. The silence was heavy, before Howler found words – and a tone, gentle yet determined, certain to a fault.
“The value of home doesn’t come from how useful it is. Nor does it need that to be loved.”
Now that, hit Igey harder than intended. The woman was… Always thinking of what may be useful, a step forward, anything of the sort if it is considered a tool of any kind… A small realisation, it was a product of what she was now, what she had been risen from, and what her soul remembered long before either… Life was different. Something the woman needed to really… Embrace more, than she had been.
Hands lowered to her lap. A soft hum came from her in that moment while deep contemplation passed through her. “... My apologies. The way of which I have lived and worked for so long had taken a toll. As a result, I’ve been rather callous with the ship and comments. My apologies. You are right of course, in many ways. I need… Be better, in how I see more things.”
Howler’s eyebrows rose for a moment, before their expression turned into a tender scoff, a huff escaping from them. “It’s all good. It is… something I heard repeated a lot around me, when I was younger. It’s good to have a reminder every once in a while.”
Her head came back up then, gaze sharp enough for one to feel behind red glass. “Mayhaps you need to extend that same kindness and thought, onto yourself as well?”
“Hm….” Howler hummed under their breath, taking a nibble of the treat…. Before pulling out the tomestone. “Hey, want to help me write for Amon? I’m sure he’d enjoy a review on that comedy show you absolutely did not snort at.”
A clumsy pivot, but Howler really didn’t have anything else to pivot with.
There was a heavy pause. Does she push, or pull? Insistence or ease?
In the end, Igey decided for ease, giving a soft huff of breath with a smile. “I would love to. Lead the opening line, my friend… And I did not snort. I know not what you refer to.”
The rest of the hour was spent with treats, few laughs, and a stack of papers as the two crafted letters for their friend back in Shroud…
“The next time my words are about to bless us for my ignorance-” Howler started, eyes shut and body taunt. “- do us both a favor, and seize my jaw.”
“If that is an invitation my young friend, consider it taken. I’ll do exactly that the next time your mouth decides to speak foolishness. Whatever words you may have been tempted to weave together will be swiftly cut off.” Igey sounded far too amused by that comment from the clone.
Howler couldn’t help but to grunt a little in response, arm raised to keep their ears somewhat protected from the flying particles of sand and dust. Not even ten minutes ago when the alarm first went off, Howler had asked dumbfounded what on Eorzeas name was a ‘Duststorm’ – only to have their question answered in the most glorious, aggravating way possible.
With howling winds, coarse wind, dry throats and low visibility.
Dust, dust everywhere.
“‘Tis not a storm. Storm implies something is coming down from the skies. This, this is just very angry, misbehaving wind,” Howlers nose wrinkled, before they coughed up some of the accidentally inhaled dust. Their throat felt raw and their nose itched something fierce. “I miss my mask.”
“Hm.” The blue haired woman glanced towards Howler in mild curiosity. Those sorts of comments always had her wondering just what sorts of difference truly extended beyond. “You see, storms can come in many forms here, and oftentimes take the winds with them. You poor soul.” Igey spoke with true care, alongside amusement. Her hand held before herself with a soft blue glow. The sands? They barely touched her as wind tried to play with her longer locks. Ice and snow stopping it all from becoming an issue. A reverse moment of how Howler had managed to handle that sun rock one day.
Her gaze shifted before them, half squinting through the dust storm around them. “Be thankful it is not a full sandstorm, those can be quite a bit worse… Did you not have either in Thenwise? Duststorms nor Sandstorms?”
Howler clicked their tongue, adjusting their position just enough to get more cover from the biting wind. “We did have something of similar nature, but ‘twas not named a ‘storm’.”
“Then what have you had?”
“Hellwinds,” Howler replied without missing a beat, their tone severe and eyes hard. “They were called Hellwinds. Hot and coarse, if you got caught in one your best hope was to suffocate before the sand stripped you of your skin and flesh. Some called them the Divine Winds, an attempt from whichever of the Twelve was still around trying to eradicate the Corrupted from the deserts. Much good that did…”
What a lovely imagery, thank you very much Howler.
“They always rose without a warning. A big reason why going to Southern Thanalan was rarely an option, unless under very specific orders or circumstances – too dangerous.”
“That is… Hm… Worse than I have seen, but it is similar to something I’ve experienced. Witnessed, rather.” The great empty was the horrifying place after all. Having seen first hand what violent winds could do to the unsuspecting creature that could not burrow beneath the sands. And, to say nothing of a shard that had long ago been subsumed into this source… No longer existed, ravaged as it was so violently. But Hellwinds, in Thenwise, sounded more like something was making them for other purpose. Or, maybe, the natural order and environment had been so devastated, it merely happened without warning. “The fact you said it was too dangerous, even for you? Means these ‘Hellwinds’ were a monster in their own right… Says quite a bit of the situation, considering what you are willing to do now, and the thrill seeker tendencies… The Garleans won’t soon forget that madness.”
Violent eyes, shielded by red glass, finally spot the target she had been trying to find through the sweeping dusts. Her free hand lifting to point out a gathering of stone walls. “There, a building. We can take more proper cover there rather than this stone cliff side at our backs. Save your ears the dustburn of the winds and sands, as well as be able to properly relax this weather away.”
Howler took one look towards the building, squinting – they were supposed to go there anyways, it was just that this blasted wind had come out of nowhere first. Feeling the gales tugging at their ears, Howler could only let out a small sound from the back of their throat; “I see wisdom in your words, even with the visibility as it is. Time to move.”
Covering their head, and running while keeping body low, close to the ground, Howler managed to take the lead. Without hesitation, they pushed the door open with their shoulder, keeping it open for Igey to jog in right after – before pushing it back closed with a tad too much force.
“Bloody sandpaper winds… Well at least we can get into negotiations now. I’d rather get those pipe-parts sooner rather than later, the old ones seem to be about to rust through-”
The woman shook out her cloth clothing with a soft hum, that glowing hand flicking the last dregs of cold away. “I know, I know. I’ll handle it from here, Howler. Take a breath. We’ll get your project the pipes you need, and I remember you need them properly coated and reinforced.” The specifics for this order had been burned into her mind with how much Howler had been upset at the previous ones still left within the carcass of that old ship in the ravine. “You were practically wailing at seeing such devastation upon the eaten through systems.”
“I was merely living up to my name for once.” the clone snorted, their ear giving a small flick before they turned to give their poor dust-bitten skin a good scrub. It wasn't the burning sensation they had expected, nor even the worst they had felt but… irritation was still irritation.
The woman patted the clones metal arm in reassurance, and turned to walk her way to the proper counter. Immediately putting her rather good skills of bartering and business to work. Ah, thank the stars above, she could put her talents learned over thousands of years to better use.
Howler waited, patient, like a lost puppy really with how they sat on top of a box – shaking dust and sand out of their equipment and clothing. For a moment, they merely leaned their head against the brick and stone, eyes downcast for a moment.
Igey was doing so much for them. Far too much. Paying for parts, putting up with their shenanigans, protecting Howler when things got bad. Sure, they had a shared goal, and keeping Howler safe was helping with the said goal but… it wasn’t like she couldn’t do all of this on her own. Her ability to detect the Corruption might’ve not been as sharp, but all Howler really needed to do was to write down every single detail they could remember.
Shaking their head lightly, Howler forced those thoughts away. Feeling inadequate was not helpful in the least – jealousy would breed a need to prove themself. And that always led to recklessness. Recklessness that was far worse than what Howler was already doing – they knew their limits, rarely pushed past where it was needed. Sure, they took injuries, traded victories for scars.
A price they paid without hesitation.
But if they tried to step beyond just to prove their worth, that the hopes and dreams of their friends and family, allies and teachers were placed on the right person…
Thickly, Howler swallowed – the lump in their throat not wearing down at all.
“Don’t be stupid,” Howler muttered to the empty air, hand on the side of their head. “Don’t be stupid.”
“You’re not stupid, my friend.” Igey’s voice spoke true. Suddenly right next to the young elezen clone. She had finished quickly, and sharply with the rather more professional mercantile individual across the way. Now having silently made her way back to the, admittedly, distracted Howler who had been far too wrapped up in themselves. “You are learning.”
Howler lifted their gaze from the floor with a violent jolt, before looking back up at Igey – startled out of their thoughts. Speak of the devil, or the dame in this case.
“Learning is my default,” Howler couldn’t help themself there, thoughts coming out unfiltered. But, then, they lowered their gaze once more. “... I do wish one day to be the one who knows enough not to have to learn.”
The woman gave a soft hum of breath. That sort of hum that held a mild air of curiosity, but far more concern than the prior. It was one of those moments where she learned something of Howler that was filed away. Igey lifted her hand to offer it out to them, if they needed something to squeeze or ground. “We are always learning, ever forward, ever onward. Even myself, my friend… But, I have full confidence that you will know much and more soon enough. To not be in that limbo you may feel. I myself have been there, far more relatable than I wish to admit.”
Howler, after a moment, took a hold of the hand. Not to squeeze it, but to pull themself back up – time for self-pity was over. There was a sigh, tired to the very marrow of their bones – before they managed to flash a small smile.
Time to change the topic.
“I take it your negotiations went well? I really should apologize, you’re always footing the bill for our endeavours, even on a vanity project such as this…”
Thankfully, Igey took the conversation out. Another time for whatever may have been upon the clone's mind. Instead now focused upon their inquiry. “They did indeed go well, much more than last time. As for the bill?” A small smile graced the calm woman's expression, a hand waving in the air. “Nothing to apologize for. This is a gift, to get that airship up… I also have another item for you, if you would allow me the indulgence?”
Howlers ears gave a small flick of surprise at the latter part. “Well… I am not one to refuse a gift in earnest.”
Even if they did feel like they didn’t always deserve it. But experience had taught them the joy of giving gifts, and who was Howler to deny such from one of their friends?
Hands adjusted the longer cloth at her hip to expose the item bag, pulling the leather open to dig into the magical depths of its hold. A moment, two… Then a carefully folded cloth is in her hands, tied with twine. Shades of soft reds and white. “Here. After perusing some suggestions of a mutual friend, I made a stop in Ul’dah, of which a very eager au’ra was quite interested in assisting me with putting this together. For you.”
She held it out in offering. The cloth itself is quite light and soft, high quality. “A surprise. An outfit. This is however a poor place to try it on.”
Howler's eyes widened, fingertips brushing against the softer fabric – far higher quality than the leathers and canvas cloth they had grown accustomed to in the frozen wastes. It almost felt like touching water – the wonder and awe evident from how their eyes widened. “This... for me?”
“Yes, for you. I’ve made sure to take your sizes beforehand. I believe this will be… Quite a bit to your liking.” Igey kept that fond smile about her… But then it turned almost… Playful? Knowing? Hard to place with her sunglasses ever present. “And if you will permit me? I would like to use my combs, and make-up kit on you, when you wear it.”
