I've done a lot of imagining and writing about Tephain'a's transition into Poema, and I've finally taken the time to make a few gposes to illustrate this evolution !
(In my characters' lore, fantasia doesn't exist, and a transition is pretty close to an IRL transition.)
Tephain'a was raised as a girl from an early age. Entrusted to a clan whose Nunh didn't like him, raising him as a girl must have been a humiliation. But at a very young age, Tephain'a found that this life suited him. The clothes, the activities, the other women who cuddled him because he was "as soft and adorable as a plush toy". But in his early teens, Tephain'a fell in love with a boy, Nunh's son, and the scandal swept his life away.
As an adult, he repressed his femininity for a long time, but without rejecting it completely. He feared he would be mocked or betrayed again, as he no longer trusted anyone. He never talked about it.
Then he met Fox, his squad leader, who gradually tamed him. Trust grew between them, and one day Tephain'a dared to tell Fox what he'd been hiding for so long. Fox simply offered to experiment and find out who he was, who he wanted to be. It was the little things, undoing the braids so tightly tied to hide his long hair. Doing his hair differently…
Next it was a matter of letting the fur on his tail grow and wander around without trying to hide it, for fear of people staring at it…
Afterwards, Tephain'a wanted to wear make-up, to hide her manly marks for a more feminine look. She realized that her face was androgynous enough to give her the illusion of a woman's look, and this made her smile.
She then set about changing her body, using alchemy, to make it as feminine as possible. Supported by her squad, from her boss who offers her many outfits and encourages her to express herself as she wishes, to the other members who help and support her in whatever way they can. She has even been given her new name, Poema, by Josevalain, the most uptight member of the squad, who protects her as if she were his daughter at heart (and sometimes scolds her accordingly when she forgets that she can trust the squad not to put herself in danger).
After a while, she plucked up the courage to start a career as a dancer. She quickly blossomed, and despite the nastiness of some bullies, she gained enough self-confidence to stand up for herself or seek help, which is always forthcoming.
Her body changes slowly but she feels better every new day ♥ She even tries more private stuff. She likes it !
Tephain'a and Josevalain really didn't get along when the squad was first formed. Things changed after the events of Heavensward, firstly because Josevalain was shaken by the events that led his nation to an unprecedented crisis, but also because Tephain'a learned to open up and trust other members of the squad than Fox. They still had their run-ins, but there were also moments when they grew closer as fellow Echo-bearers.
One evening, Tephain'a found himself anxious. There was no one in the FC house but Josevalain, and the silence was unbearable for the miqo'te. Josevalain hadn't planned to stay awake. Nevertheless, with the situations the squad had been through, he had become accustomed not only to helping but to being helped . Every member of the squad had his or her strengths and weaknesses, but also his or her problems, and the other members helped out as much as they could, with their talents, their resources and sometimes just their presence. Weary, but aware that Teph needed help, Josevalain offered to stay with him for the night. Nothing tendentious, Josevalain is married. And he had every confidence in Teph.
For his part, Teph was not yet used to showing his vulnerability to Josevalain. He'd been an awful man before he'd changed his ways. Tephain'a always took the comments he received too much to heart, and feared he'd receive more this evening, even more so now that he valued the elezen. Nevertheless, he had no other choice, and deep down, he hoped Josevalain's change of heart was real, for he was beginning to appreciate her uprightness and strength of character.
"I'm not sure how to help on this. Is it ok if we just sleep ?"
"Y-yeah, I'm sorry but there is no wind and it's too hot for a fire, and... !"
"Teph, calm down, it's fine. Echo can be... bothersome. You've helped me many times with mine."
"I'm worried to ask you that. You're married and..."
"Faithful, just as you are respectful. And no offense, but you're no my type."
"[giggles]"
"Say Josevalain, can I see your wedding ring?"
"My wedding ring? What for?"
"I'm... curious, and I've never had the chance to see one up close. I realize I've never been around a lot of people who are married. Or they often hide their rings. Fox wear his ring on a chain because he works a lot with his hands. But you always wear yours."
"That's what you're supposed to do with your wedding ring. I'm not supposed to take it off."
"Oh, it's, ahem, it's a no then?"
"What do you want to do with it ? It's really precious to me."
"Really, just, look at it. I could look at it on your hand but you don't like when we touch your hands, right?"
"They might hurt, yes. ... [sight] It's a weird fixation, but after Rohan'ya ask for an allagan droid, leave you my ring for a while seems reasonable. Don"t lose it, it's precious."
"It's shiny ! And already used."
"Well, I fight with it and my fighting style is not smooth..."
"You will replace it when it's too damaged ?"
"I won't. A wedding ring must be kept for life. If it breaks, I'll have it repaired. I take care of it as much as possible."
"Wow... That explains why they cost so much ?"
"Maybe, they have to be solid and beautiful. Don't try to sell it !"
"I won't! I understand why it's precious..."
"How come you know so little about wedding rings? Don't the miqo'tes have them?"
"They... They do. Well, I heard that some Nunhs don't have one because they have many wives. I lived in a tribe where they were uncommon. After that I lived on a pirate ship and after that, Limsa where I wasn't close to people. Weddings and wedding ring are not something I've ever thought about before."
"But now you're thinking about them?"
"... Yeah, I, hum, no... The truth is, I thought about it when I was a kid. I wanted to get married and have a family. It was in my plans."
Josevalain frowned. He didn't notice anyone who can make Teph thinks this way. He's not really nosey so not really surprised to consider only now that the miqo'te might have a serious relationship. But he wasn't sure if Tephain'a want to talk about it with him. So he preferred to remain evasive.
"Do you think about those plans for a reason ? "
"I guess. I don't think that's ever going to happen to me."
"What..?"
"I'm not... suited for marriage? I'm a... I don't..."
"Who the fuck told you that?!"
"I wasn't told that! I... ! it's obvious, isn't it?"
"No! Why wouldn't you get married?"
"I, hum, I don't know how to explain it... Thank for lending it to me, here, take it back."
"You don't know how to explain it, or you don"t know how to explain it to me?"
"...[ears down]"
"[sight] I know how mean I can be, Teph. I spoke badly of your past life and your behavior. I understand part of it now and I can apologize again. Has anything I told you makes you think you don't deserve to... ?"
"No ! Not at all ! I... ! Well you said things back then, but you also helped me... ! E-Even the fact that you say I… deserve… I like this !"
"Ok, now listen..."
Josevalain never thought he'd have to reprimand Tephain'a for his lack of self-confidence. But now that he knew that not only did Teph want to get married and how much happiness it had brought into his life, he sincerely hoped that one day the miqo'te would find the right person and have no doubt that he'd make a good spouse. Their discussion occupied them for part of the evening. It was unexpected, but between a few sarcasms and a few jibes, their conversation went a long way towards calming Teph's doubts and helping Jos to get to know the miqo'te better.
They eventually fell asleep, however Jos understood that Tephain'a was far less confident than he showed others, and that he only revealed these details to people he trusted. He was sad to see in one of his companions traits he himself had long maintained, but happy to help him grow.
Ancient forms of Tephain'a and Rohan'ya, moved to tears : "You can... Purr?!"
Ancient form of X'Shuni, overjoyed, lifting her as in the Lion King : "SHE BITES!!!"
Ancient form of Naome, who puts him under a heat lamp : "Shh, he sleeps."
I wrote it in french, so some phrases might be strange.
Tephain'a didn't like the wind and rain of the Gridanian climate. The wind was cold and too strong, it ruffled his hair and whistled in his ears, even when they were flat against his skull. The rain was hard, freezing and soaking him to the bone. He had accomplished his mission with flying colors. The bandit with whom he had been slumming it this week had given him his last secrets on the pillow the night before. By the time he had passed on the information, he had had to lie under his brigand until morning, and had resigned himself to getting them drunk to finally put the bugger to sleep. Alcohol wasn't a problem, until the second in command suspected something. Tephain'a had to fight and let himself get hurt to make the group think that the second mate was just envious of him, and the trick was done. The brigand punished his second himself and carried out the plan as planned, being fooled by the squad of Twin Adder waiting for him at the meeting point.
Tephain'a had healed his wounds, wiped away the brigand's anger and reproach, turned in his report and was dismissed at the gates of the Gridanian outpost. Nothing more. The alcohol was giving him a headache, his stomach was churning and wanting to rest at the Bobbing Cork, he didn't go in when he heard a commotion coming from the inn. Sitting on a bench, under the courtyard of the inn, Tephain'a knew he had to move, to leave or enter despite the noise. His life was like that: meetings, relationships, fights, information, adventures in short. He loved this life! But sometimes he felt bad, hurt, shaken by this too hectic life. When he had taken too much, he could only find a fleeting comfort, a slightly less dangerous conquest, a slightly less false friend or someone naive or seduced enough to let him spend the night in a safe and less lonely place. Even at the cost of an unpleasant evening.
He was sore all over. The fight hadn't hurt him badly, but from his neck to his ankles, Tephain'a had so many cuts and bruises that he couldn't tell where one started and the other ended. If he bothered. The alcohol he had consumed that morning was giving him a terrible headache and the sounds of the inn, even if they were muffled by the walls, were making him feel worse as he went along. He should go to the inn in Limsa Lominsa, sleep and take care of the rest later...
"Is everything okay?"
Tephain'a flickered his eyes to refocus his gaze, which had been lost in the raindrops before him. Sitting on a bench out of the way, in a dark outfit and with his knees tucked up under his chin, he didn't imagine anyone would notice him in this weather. A tall Elezen in front of him had a distinct sense of his surroundings. Although he was covered by a hooded cloak, Tephain'a was not mistaken. Tall, thin, with almond-shaped eyes and straight features, they were not uncommon in The Black Shroud. Yet the stranger wore the Uldian coat of arms on his chocobo. But no uniform. An adventurer. A member of the great company of Immortals. Tephain'a forgot to answer and the Elezen crouched before him, repeating his question in an even softer voice.
"Are you okay?"
"Hn, yes, I just... I don't like the rain."
It had already surprised the Miqo'te that the man was coming up to his level, but he was headed for another surprise when the man took off his cloak to cover him with it. It was heavy and the rain had been pouring down on it for quite some time. Yet the inside was dry, still warm, and smelled of tea, honey, and those precious oils that abound in Thanalanese markets. With his head uncovered, the Elezen revealed himself to be a blond man with worried blue eyes, but a gentle smile. On any other occasion, Tephain'a would have pushed the cloak away before he put it on him, saying he didn't need it, but right now, in his condition, he did. He was feeling just a little bit better, and if the blond man would just leave him with his cape, he would probably have the strength to go back finally...
"Don't you want to go inside?"
"Too much noise...I'm sobering up."
"You don't look good. Did your mission go wrong?"
Tephain'a didn't want to talk about it, if at all. The heat and scent of the cloak was either knocking him out, or just showing him how little could put him to sleep. He blinked, which the Elezen probably took as a yes. His hand came up, and Tephain'a thought he was going to look at his face or reach for his satchel and try to steal it. That would have been a good end to the day. But it didn't. Fingers gently tapped her head in a comforting gesture. Tephain'a had seen adults do this to their children before, apprentices or even a younger sibling. He had never felt this gesture but suddenly understood why children did not push it away. It was more effective than the "good job" thrown around by the Twin Adder guards to whom Tephain'a had reported. It was rewarding.
"My name is Fox. If you don't want to go to the inn, I can put you up. Lavender Beds is not far, you can rest there until you get your strength back."
Hit the jackpot for Tephain'a. A kind soul, especially among adventurers, who crosses his path when he needs it, and doesn't live far away, is ideal. Under other circumstances, Tephain'a would have simpered to make himself look good, but since he had naturally attracted his attention, he simply nodded gently.
The Elezen must have taken him for younger than he was. The way he treated him, and the way he carried him in his arms to pull him off the bench, made Tephain'a feel like a child, but not necessarily bad. He felt a little pampered, taken into consideration more than as a mercenary. It was illusory, but it encouraged him to let go, at least a little.
"I didn't hurt you?"
"Not...too much. I have bruises."
"I'll be careful then."
The chocobo carried them both without any trouble. It had to be said, it had the color, but Tephain'a had a hard time recognizing the common bird of the Eorzean lands in this huge ball of feathers and fat. But they were incredibly comfortable on that soft back. The man named Fox guided him with a fishing rod from which a Gysalt Greens was hanging, but it was very effective. Tephain'a was surprised that Fox didn't ask for his cloak back, and as he was sitting in front of the Elezen, cradled by an arm against him, he couldn't see his face, but he guessed that the rain was not sparing him. Yet he never asked, and as they arrived quickly, Tephain'a did not have the opportunity to ask him why.
Maybe following him to his house was a trap. Yes, it was too strange after all. People are never disinterested. He must have wanted something from him. If it was just taking advantage of the miqo'te, Tephain'a was used to it. But he was still suspicious. And when they arrived, he began to observe.
The house was small but pretty, the garden was well organized, and they soon entered a bright and warm interior. Nothing suspicious as he reluctantly left the protective cloak. Fox pointed to a sofa near a fireplace. He was going to get some towels, Tephain'a would just have to settle in for a while. The Miqote did so, but on the floor, on a woolen rug that the fire had heated up nicely. He just wanted to sit on it, but feeling the softness under his pads made him slump to the floor, his cheek on the rug and his eyes watching the flames. An orchestrion was playing in the house, a soft tune, a litany he didn't know but liked. It lulled him. He felt too comfortable for it not to be a trap. He wondered if Fox would come back with a weapon, or ropes, or wait until he fell asleep to... Tephain'a was unsure what.
Then the voice of his host, a banal towel in his hand, woke him up from his torpor. If Fox wanted to confine him, clearly he had more than one opportunity. But the towel gently stroked Tephain'a's braided hair as the Elezen, still crouching, spoke. Tephain'a concentrated on her voice, trying not to sink back into a half-sleep.
"You really don't look well. Are you sure you only have bruises?"
"Maybe a little more..."
"I've got some stuff to heal you, and I've got some elementalist skills if you need them."
"Hn. I'm wiped out. Tomorrow... I want to sleep it off."
"That's not a good idea, you're soaked, you need to dry off, and the sooner you get healed the better."
Tephain'a rolled onto his back to look at Fox with a squint. The migraine remained not far away.
"What would I owe you for all this?"
"Huh?"
Fox tilted his head, giving him a confused labrador look with his blond hair. Tephain'a frowned to keep from laughing at this effect of his imagination.
"It's not free I'm wrong? That you care for me like this. What do you expect?"
"Nothing. You need help and I can help you, so I'm helping you. That's all."
"Without asking for anything?"
"Otherwise it's not helping, it's negotiating."
Tephain'a opened then closed his mouth. Yes, the Elezen was Uldian, this kind of thinking was typical of the Thanalan hotlands.
"But then why help?"
Fox smiled and patted Tephain'a's head again.
"It's good to help."
At this answer, Tephain'a didn't know what to say. Nice. He had come across some who pretended to be nice, or who acted nice in front of others. Who helped when they had an audience and sighed with annoyance when they were no longer being watched. Fox had no one to impress, the house was empty. He hadn't seen anyone outside the inn or on the road. He didn't do this for the looks of others. His gentle smile was not feigned. He wasn't playing. He was just being kind. Really kind.
Tephain'a raised his hand to put it on the one that was patting his head. Holding it there for a bit.
"Don't you like it?"
"Yes, I do. It's not often that someone touches my head without squishing or twisting my ears. I like it."
Fox laughed a little as he scratched a corner of his ear in just the right place that Tephain'a didn't know existed but relaxed him a little. He knew about miqo'tes, that was for sure, but suddenly reassured to see someone reaching out to him like that, in a moment when he needed it so badly, he didn't dwell on that detail. Fox reiterated his concern that he was soaking wet and Tephain'a finally agreed to go change.
The house had an Oriental bathroom, Hingashian in spirit with Uldian touches no doubt related to the Elezen's origins. The bath gave off vapors that were already leaving a layer of liquid heat on the brown skin of the miqote. After the icy rain, Fox's cloak, the carpet and this bath enveloped Tephain'a with a constant feeling of protection, of security. He couldn't get used to it. Fox was only helping him after all. When he no longer needed help, Tephain'a would surely be dismissed to let someone else enjoy the Elezen's kindness. Might as well enjoy it while it lasted. Might as well take advantage of it too. He opened the door to show his jacket, which didn't even come off below the shoulders, soggy.
"I'm too tired. My clothes are sticking and I can't get them off..."
Fox consoled him with that peculiar scratch that relaxed him. Yet his blue eyes looked at the revealed wounds, washed out by the rain but still there.
"You want me to help you? We'll have to treat you too."
"Yes."
Tephain'a was a little ashamed. He knew how to play whimsical on missions or make it seem like he wanted something he didn't care about or the other way around. He was afraid that Fox would refuse and tell him to do it himself. Fox didn't, expertly pulling on the jacket to remove it gently, kneeling down and removing the cat-man's shoes and laying the effortful clothes on the bench as he went along. He let him manage his pants, leaving to put the shoes to dry by the fire and the clothes to be washed.
Tephain'a took care of the rest and washed himself sluggishly, sitting awkwardly and limply. He was about to contort himself, or perhaps abandon the idea of washing his shoulders and back, when he heard the tapping at the door and allowed Fox to enter. As if on cue, Fox put on clean clothes and rolled up his sleeves to help his guest. He didn't make any inappropriate looks or gestures, and Tephain'a wondered if it was because he wasn't his type, or because he preferred women.
"I don't have any clothes that fit you, but that shirt and braids should keep you warm for the night. Do you want to undo your braids?"
"No, I always keep them on."
"Okay."
Tephain'a made no comment and Fox did not question him, respecting his silence. It took a while for the dark-haired man to realize that in addition to rubbing his skin, Fox was treating it. His palms went first to rinse away the marks of blows and wounds. Just as lightly, they would rest on the Miqo'te's aches and pains and dispel them with a touch of ether that ran down his body. From his back to his arms to his torso and legs, without ever making either of them uncomfortable, the wounds were all treated in a gentle manner.
Tephain'a woke up for a moment under the care. Not that he was in pain, but the elemental energy brought strength back to his weary body. Fox was careful and meticulous, so no marks remained when he let Tephain'a soak in the hot bath. Tephain'a sighed with relief. He was truly pampered. It was nice in many ways, and even more so when he was planning to spend a much less peaceful night. He would have fallen asleep in the bath if it hadn't been for the sudden feeling that he shouldn't abuse the blonde's hospitality.
"These aren't your clothes."
He got dressed and quickly noticed that the clothes, even though they were too big for his Miqo'te size, were not made for the figure of an Elezen. A Hyur's, at most. As he reached the kitchen where Fox seemed to be preparing a meal, he asked himself the question. If Fox didn't want to answer, that was fine. Sitting down in a chair, one knee bent against his torso, he played with the overly long sleeves as he started the conversation.
Fox smiled at him, a wide smile that people have when they talk about things they like.
"They're Renji's. He doesn't wear them anymore because they're tight even for him."
Fox offered a plate of stew but Tephain'a relented with a grimace. Too much, and he was barely keeping awake. He hadn't eaten, but he wasn't that hungry. As if he had expected it, his host placed a much more interesting hot cup in front of him. Milk, by color, honey, by smell, and fresh bread. And Tephain'a suddenly remembered that he loved milk with honey. But how long had it been since he last drank some? He couldn't tell.
"Renji, he's... your roommate?"
It was true, there were traces that someone else lived here, if you looked closely. The stuff in the bathroom, the amount of food the Elezen was making, the stuff in the rooms. But the question caused Fox to laugh.
"Renji is my husband!"
Tephain'a was about to drink, but held back as he looked at Fox, his eyes wide. So he was indeed interested in men and married on top of that! But then...?
"But why did you bring me back then?"
"You were in bad shape. What's that got to do with it?"
"Your husband, he won't be jealous to see that you brought another man in your house?! And that you undressed him and gave him his stuff?"
Fox laughed again, genuinely amused.
"I undressed you to help you get clean, and to heal you. And I told you, Renji can't put the clothes on anymore, so they might as well be useful to you!"
"But he may read that very differently!"
As if on cue, Fox nodded.
"I'm not cheating on my husband by helping an adventurer in need. And no offense, but Renji is the only man I want right now. And he knows it."
"I should earn a gil every time I hear that..."
Tephain'a's voice was low, more out of sleep than correction to his host. Yet he had to admit that the Elezen hadn't tried anything and that he himself wasn't tempted by sex in his condition. Just as he was about to regret having drunk too quickly the cup he held in his hands, still warm from the milk it contained, Fox offered him more, and without hesitation, the Miqote accepted. The drink, the bath, the care, everything guided him towards a soft somnolence, far from the sleep of exhaustion that he had always had. He felt really... good, and it felt like it was at odds with his life. He never had this kind of moment, and as far as he could remember, he had never been treated like this.
"It's weird, the way you host, the way you care for people, you know. I've never..."
He yawned, rubbing his head against the hand that scratched it when the Elezen leaned over to him to take the empty cup from his hands.
"I've never dealt with a guy like you. I could... I don't know, make you regret being... like this..."
The Elezen's laughter sounded distant, even as he stood beside him. Tephain'a really needed some rest, and feeling safe like this even lifted his near-natural wariness.
"Doing what, for example?"
"I don't know... stuff..."
"If you don't know, I don't regret helping you. Do you want to go to sleep?"
"..."
Except he wasn't. Tephain'a felt himself being laid on a mattress with cool sheets, lying properly, with due regard for his tail, and blankets covered him heavily up to his chin. Fox went so far as to tuck him in, checking that the cat-man's ears were not bent against the pillow, even as Tephain'a moved to his side, his favorite sleeping position. Two fingers rested on his forehead, a little warm. Then, after the sound of a glass filled and placed on the bedside table and a breath that dimmed the light behind Tephain'a's eyelids, the footsteps left, closing the door. The surprise had no time to appear on Tephain'a's face, and he immediately fell asleep with his nose buried in his pillow.
Tephain'a didn't want to answer that question, somewhat out of pride, but also because he was already half asleep. He wouldn't have stopped Fox from doing anything, but still remained conscious to feel him take him in his arms and walk him through the rooms. He was at her mercy, so the blond man would no doubt reveal his true nature. Tephain'a would know not to be careless again and would take this experience as a lesson to never forget. After all, he was going to be betrayed.
When he opened his eyes again, Tephain'a could not feel his body. No poison or drug, he had just slept so well that he was still completely relaxed under the sheets. He hadn't felt that relaxed feeling in so long that he had trouble realizing he was awake, and he blinked several times. He felt hot. His throat itched and he coughed with a shiver. It was a cold. That he recognized. In the room, the bed and a wardrobe took up part of the space. Through a window, the sun was shining, already high. Tephain'a let his muscles wake up one by one, moving his arms, then his legs and his tail. Leaving this bed was an agony but he finally got up to push the door open and look at what was behind.
A living room, which one could have believed empty since Fox seemed so immobile, a thick book in his hand, sitting cross-legged on a sofa like... a child actually. Near a window, the dark-haired man's clothes were waiting, clean and folded, on a footman. Tephain'a had time to come in front of him and even sit next to him without the Elezen noticing, immersed in a novel or treatise that seemed devious. The sick Miqo'te had even the opportunity to put his head on his host's lap when the latter finally picked up from his lines, without pushing him away.
" Good morning! Slept well?"
"Like a baby, but I have a sore throat."
"I saw you had a slight fever last night, but you were pretty tired already so I might as well let you sleep. The honey helped you sleep well at least! I've got some remedies for you if you want them."
Like the day before, two cool fingers rested on his forehead. He had a fever, no doubt about it. Like a reflex, Fox reached over and scratched his ear again.
"That touch. You do it all the time. And even I didn't know it was pleasant. Where did you learn that?"
"I was around Miqo'tes for a long time and it always soothed them whenever I did that. It's particularly effective among the Moon clans, and it helps you relax. I've kept the habit when I take care of Miqote to show them that way that everything is alright."
"Do you take care of Miqo'te often, or people in general?"
"Not so much anymore. When it's useful."
Tephain'a opened his eyes and met Fox's. He had placed his book on his other knee, and was offering him his full attention. The Miqote appreciated it, and even more than that. He liked that he had slept so well, that he had passed this night without any bad consequences, besides the cold, and that it was no different this morning, or this afternoon, for all he knew...
"You don't even know my name and you help me without hesitation. You're either very strong, very dumb, or too nice..."
Fox didn't defend himself, and simply laughed at the remark.
"What's your name?"
"It's a little late to ask that question."
"But not too late?"
Tephain'a pouted - Not wrong - before answering. Fox gave him a gentle smile.
"Nice to meet you, Tephain'a. My name is Fox. Pleased to make your acquaintance."
"Even though it made you do the nanny and the linen maid, and the nurse this morning?"
Fox leaned forward, careful not to crush Tephain'a, but just enough to take the tea that lay on the table and a cake from a plate. He drank the tea but handed the cake to Tephain'a, who, while serious in conversation, was also too hungry to refuse.
"I will say yes. If you're okay, better than when we ran into each other yesterday, I'm glad I helped you."
Tephain'a opened and closed his mouth. Yes, he was better. He was no longer cold, no longer drunk, no longer exhausted, no longer hungry, no longer wet, and... He ate the cake in silence. His throat stung every time he swallowed, so he took Fox's free hand and put it on it.
"Are you in pain?"
"Yes. You're an elementalist. You could heal me using your healing magic. You did it yesterday on my wounds."
"Okay, but that's kind of a long shot when it's a disease."
"I can stay like this. I don't feel like eating when it burns."
This was not the most effective way, because even if at the end of the treatment there was nothing left of the disease, the healer had to spend long minutes healing the patient and dissipating the disease in his body. If he worked too quickly, the disease would return, often worse than before. Tephain'a asked him to spend more time, but also his aether to do what he could do alone. Fox was going to say no. And give him the remedies he had indicated. He wasn't going to bother with that.
Yes, he was. And without making any comments at all, Fox asked him to take a comfortable position and began to heal Tephain'a's inflammation with healing magic. Tephain'a closed his eyes, confident and perplexed. Fox's aether flowed under his skin and already soothed his sore throat. Yet he had better things to do.
"I'm sorry. I'll take the remedies instead and let you continue your reading..."
"I don't mind. And it's light, so it probably won't take long."
"B-but it'll tire you out using your aether, and you already have remedies. I'm trespassing on your kindness."
Fox gave him a knowing smile.
"It's elementalism, I'm using the ambient aether, not my own. And the remedies will always come in handy, don't worry about that. It's normal to want to be pampered. You're not really abusing it, you know, it's just little things. You're not used to it, are you?"
Tephain'a looked up at the Elezen with a troubled look. He didn't like to be read easily, but there was no reproach or condescension in Fox's voice. He just knew. Maybe, no, definitely from experience, personal or from people he knew.
"Usually I have to negotiate, or pay, or fight, to get what I want from someone, or sometimes lie down. I... expected you to ask me for something, but you didn't ask for anything. I expected you to attack me, but you didn't either. When you put me to bed, I was sure you would take advantage of my body. Maybe you could have done it without me being mad at you because you were so careful with me about everything else. But... you even tucked me in. My mother herself never tucked me in... And now..."
His throat was better, perfectly fine. That wasn't what was stopping him from going on with his sentence. He didn't know what to say. And it was Fox who spoke. He told him that he reminded him of the children of the Ul'dah orphanage where he had grown up, he told him that he guessed from the marks of the day before that he was selling his body as he had done back then. The unknown Elezen for him became less mysterious, less strange because he was so familiar. Tephain'a listened to him from beginning to end, finding here and there snatches of another place but of events he knew. The need and the loneliness that had generated emergency solutions, that were not dropped because it was one less thing to worry about as long as it worked. Details which are not easily talked about, which Fox shared naturally because it helped Tephain'a.
Little by little, the story drifted into conversation. Tephain'a stammered, then spoke and explained. They exchanged for a long time on subjects that Tephain'a would have considered keeping to his grave. It was not an interrogation, just a time to talk in peace and quiet, in safety. They talked about many things, and the afternoon flew by. Tephain'a felt that Fox had tamed him as if it were nothing, quite simply, but he didn't reject the idea because the Elezen didn't force him to do anything. Sometimes the subject would make the miqo'te silent, and Fox would change it without insisting. Tephain'a could bring up another subject and he would respond to it. The most amusing part was that the two of them talked for a long time, but Tephain'a followed Fox's activities, and even participated in them, for a meal, but also by bringing objects or helping to pick patterns when the blond man was sewing.
He took his time to say goodbye and left feeling as if he had dreamed the day away. He felt rested, calm, he was neither hungry nor cold and Fox had even made him, and had him make, some cake for the road. He would probably never dare to knock on the Elezen's door again but...
But he did. He came by again from time to time. Sometimes the house was empty, but when it wasn't, Fox always opened the door. He introduced him to Renji, a handsome Hyur who was more adventurous than Fox, invited him to share a meal or an activity, and took care of him when Tephain'a arrived wounded and found this house to be his only refuge. Fox's gestures and kindness encouraged Tephain'a to ask for hugs and scratches, which he never received, but which the Elezen always gave. Between them a natural tacit and tactile affection and tenderness grew quickly, and Tephain'a soon considered Fox a big brother at heart, the only true member of his family. For now.
(Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version))
Tephain'a is a Miqo'te born from an adventurer and an unknown father. His mother didn't want to stop her journey to raise a child and persuaded a Nunh from the Southern Seas to take care of the young boy. It seems she knew some secrets and promised to keep them. The Nunh accepted but despised the child and treated him like a burden. Fortunately, Tephain'a was given the beauty, the long wavy hair and smooth skin by his mother. Many women of the clan treated him like a pretty doll, dressing him in dresses and disguising him as a girl to keep him in their service. Tephain'a learnt at a early on to do chores and behave like a girl, which he loved. Since he was a child he didn't see the mockery of dressing him in robes or giving him chores. He was an easy child.
When the squad was formed, he realized that he could trust each member and consider them a strange but warm family. He had many problems with Josevalain, and they fought a lot when he arrived. But otherwise, he learned a lot with the squad and formed strong bonds with everyone. He sometimes plays to help them on missions, and he takes care of the younger ones or jokes to boost their spirits.When he was thirteen years old, he often met the son of the Nunh, who came to his mistress' house. He was supposed to court the young lady in order to marry her one day. While waiting for the lady's long preparations, he would strike up a conversation with the shy girl who was sewing or peeling vegetables in the kitchen as he wandered around. He discovered that he was a boy, but also that he was cute, had good manners and a nice voice when he spoke or sang. He became attached to him and Tephain'a was amazed by the strength and charisma of the future Nunh. They were in love.
Within a year, the mistress saw that her fiancé came earlier to talk with Tephain'a and instead did not spend much time with her. She did not want to be a second choice and break their engagement, which didn't seem to bother the fiancé. But the Nunh, her father, found out about Tephain'a and his son and had a conversation with his son. He gave him a choice between staying in the tribe and breaking up with Tephain'a or being expelled with him.
The son decided to stay with his clan without hesitation, breaking his lover's heart in an instant. Tephain'a decided to leave the tribe at the age of 14. He sailed with a crew of Hrothgar pirates and became a bard, a dancer and a ninja, committing all sorts of misdeeds. He ended up in Limsa Lominsa and began his adventure in Eorzea. Full of resentment towards the Nunhs and the Sunseekers in general, he often fought with them and tricked them in all sorts of ways. He trusted no one and was often left alone. Although he still liked to wear dresses and have long hair, he wore men's clothes and braided his hair all the time. He no longer wanted to be mocked or deceived.
Until he met Fox. After a difficult mission, Tephain'a was exhausted, wounded and a little drunk, as he had to drink with his targets before fighting them. The Gridanian soldier in charge left him wandering and Tephain'a could only slump on a nearby bench in the rain. Fox, an Elezen elementalist at the time, saw him and asked if he was okay. Although Tephain'a absentmindedly mumbled a yes, Fox took off his coat and covered the Miqo'te. He then offered to help him and Tephain'a eventually agreed, his head and body hurting too much for him to refuse help.
Tephain'a was certain that Fox would take advantage of the situation. He was so exhausted and defenseless that he couldn't really run away or fight back. He expected an attack from the other man when he was weakest. But the more vulnerable he was, the kinder Fox was, respecting the fact that Tephain'a refused some of his help, such as undoing his hair, but still offering the help he accepted, when Tephain'a couldn't remove his soaked clothes. And not asking for anything in return, not wanting Tephain'a to feel dependent. Fox just saw that he needed help and warmth and gave him what he could offer. It was more than the Miqo'te had received in years.
As Tephain'a became ill due to his poor condition and the heavy rain he had been through, he stayed in Fox's care for a week, learning more about the Elezen. Fox did not ask him anything at first, letting him regain his strength as the Miqo'te collapsed from exhaustion the first few days. Then he thanked him for the help Tephain'a began to show. When he recovered, Tephain'a was even offered a bag to replace his own, which was too damaged. And with nothing to owe, he left in good health and refreshed. Fox even scratched his ear for good luck. And the Miqo'te didn't know how to react. He was only half-surprised to discover that everything Fox had told him was true when he later investigated him. He stayed in touch with Fox and ended up working with him.
He may be older, but he loves the way Fox cares for him. Not having a family or an affiliate makes him realize the comfort of being pampered and cared for. And while Tephain'a has had many relationships, none came close to the trust he shares with Fox. He realized how much he needed gentle touch, hugs or cuddles, that he could be listened to without mockery or scorn, and that he could be understood even if he didn't quite understand what was going on in his head. Fox has been in similar situations and can offer advice. For the Miqo'te it was like running into a big brother, especially since he also had Echo. He was wary of Fox's influence but he realized that it was a benefit to him even if the Elezen was sometimes too kind for his own good.
He also realized that Fox needed someone to care for, who could tell him that he was okay, or that what he was doing was useful and appreciated. He guessed that Fox lost someone by not being careful enough, by the way he can wake up from his nightmares and instantly check on the well-being of the Miqo'te or other members of the squad. He readily agreed to reassure the Elezen and help him in general as he helped him. Their friendship is very strong.
When the squad was formed, he realized that he could trust each member and consider them a strange but warm family. He had many problems with Josevalain, and they fought a lot when he arrived. But otherwise, he learned a lot with the squad and formed strong bonds with everyone. He sometimes plays to help them on missions, and he takes care of the younger ones or jokes to boost their spirits.
He was at first the informant and spy of the group but it demanded too much of his health and integrity. Fox convinced him to change his bad habits and seeing his taste for knowledge, he encouraged him to study. It was Josevalain who pushed him to enter the Scholasticate as a challenge. Both of them knew that Tephain'a had a passion that he didn't dare to nurture but was good at. Since then, Tephain'a is a gifted scholar.
Some trivia about Tephain'a :
He has really soft skin, and was nicknamed Plush for most of his childhood. Sometimes people still call him that because he has kept it as a code name.
He is very feline, and likes to live that way. He likes hot milk with honey, but burns his tongue easily, he loves chicken and fish, he likes to sleep in the warmth and loves to have his ears scratched or his tail groomed. He purrs to show his contentment and chews objects to work his fangs. He bumps his head on people he likes. And he's agile, lazy, playful and curious, depending on the moment.
He really didn't like G'Raha Tia at first, but he soon became passionate about his field of research. Although he feigns indifference, he has read many books about the Allag Empire and ancient civilizations.
He feels blessed by Hydaelyn and considers her a mother deity. He sometimes suffers from the power of the Echo or the missions but he remains grateful to her. In his eyes, she has given him more than his own mother, whom he avoids as much as possible.
He is a very good singer but prefers to play funny tunes with people. Alone, he listens to what the Echo transmits to him and plays or sings the melodies he perceives.
He regrets being born a man but does not dare to assert himself as a woman. Only the squad knows his secret, which he keeps fiercely out. He was humiliated as a child and kept a painful memory of it. Fox, Momona and Chipp help him to make some steps in this direction, and the squad doesn't judge him, even encourages him. Tephain'a has successfully completed a few missions under this cover and Chipp, who must have called her during one of them, naturally named her Poema, (meaning Pearl of the Deep Sea). Tephain'a liked the name so much that he still uses it.
It is often thought that Tephain'a has two personalities. He can be everything and its opposite, because of his old habit of pretending. However, he is finding it increasingly difficult to lie to the squad and to WoL without stopping himself. Habits die hard. He has been used to being a bad talker for so long, or speaking the bitter truth to others, that he still does it sometimes. He regrets it but is not good at apologizing.
He is afraid of anything that engages him, it took him a long time to join a big company, to enter the Scions of the Seventh Dawn or to join the squad. He had no long-term relationships and is afraid that Fox will one day reject him from the squad or as a friend because he causes problems. Fox reassures him about this very often: He is a member of the squad and like everyone else, he belongs. He's also his friend and will remain so for a long time, even if he makes mistakes from time to time. Besides, he is not the one who causes the most trouble.
