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Today's update is a special one! It's also well-timed. The previous update, and the ones that will follow this, all have been dealing with the fallout of the Calamity. Well in an incredible turn of luck, the LP and the time of year actually line up perfectly.
Once a year, in late August/early September, there's a yearly event called The Rising. In universe, it commemmorates the anniversary of the Calamity, while in a meta sense it commemmorates the launch of 2.0. So what better time is there to look at this yearly event?
There's a handful of quests around Ul'dah still. We'll grab them all in due time. The red quest in the middle is one we can't take until we're level 50! (Right now Ginger is 19. So that'll be a hot minute or two.) As for the quest just below it?
Absolutely not. This is another limited time event, a collaboration with Yo-Kai Watch. I did it all on my main in like three days and really don't feel the need to repeat the process on Ginger. It lasts until the advent of patch 5.4, which is probably gonna be around late November or December-ish. It involves grinding the shit out of FATEs.
While I'm sure the crowds have died down considerably from when the event first started a few weeks ago, back then if you weren't moving the second that a FATE spawned, you wouldn't get credit for it. An event like this brings out the jackasses who come in on Blue Mages and one shot the bosses so nobody but them can get credit. It's annoying and is why I'm not doing it on Ginger.
Also she can't fly and that's kinda needed to keep up with the murderball.
- Answers (Reprise)
Anyway, today's update deals with the Rising, not Legendary Yo-Kai Medal grinding. So let's talk to J'bhen Tia and see what's going on!
By the way, regarding that track I linked above? Answers (Reprise) only plays when things are super fucked up. It's the annual theme of the Rising, but normally you only hear it in the direst of circumstances. Before Dalamud fell, at the end of 1.0, it played 24/7 in every field in the game and replaced all other music. Every time you hear it - if it's not the Rising - then real bad shit is going down.
Hullo there! Would I be correct in assuming you've come to view my exhibition?
Tranquility
You see, I'm an artist by trade and my chosen medium is stained glass. While it's not the easiest thing to work with, the results are worth the considerable effort required! It's taken me a while to reach this point in my career, and this is actually my first public showing. I was wondering, if it's not too much of a bother, if I might give you a brief explanation of the subject matter.
*nods*
Ahem. Then pray, my good lady, cast your eyes at yonder pane!
It is a very nice stained glass image.
'Twas the final days before the fall of Dalamud, its inexorable approach foretelling our impending doom. Panic spread like wildfire, while many in their desperation turned on the sultanate. Looting and rioting broke out across Ul'dah. To quell the masses, Her Royal Majesty Nanamo Ul Namo took to the streets with a guard consisting of only seven subjects, for they alone had the courage to stand with their sultana. There, she addressed the rabble.
"Heed me, my beloved citizens! The realm lies upon the brink of the Seventh Umbral Era. Yet so long as we live, we must not forget our compassion. Now is not the time to take from your neighbor, but to proffer him the hand of succor."
She was determined not to let the city that the Immortal Flames were risking their lives to defend tear itself apart in their absence. Her words brought the people to their senses. They laid down their arms and set about healing the wounds they themselves had inflicted on Ul'dah. Thanks to Her Majesty's impassioned speech, those who returned from the battlefield found their home much as they had left it: a gleaming jewel in the desert.
<sigh> It all seems so long ago. To see the place today, you'd think that the people had entirely forgotten her words that day. The same hands that were once proffered in succor now grasp greedily at every last coin, even if it means one's fellow man must go hungry...
It's times like these that we must remind ourselves of the sacrifices of those who came before us, which is why the Rising festival is of such profound importance. I draw inspiration from Her Majesty's deeds all those years ago, and through my work, perhaps others might do the same.
Dear me, I'd better stop before I'm overcome with emotion! There are in fact, matters to which I must yet attend, and if I'm not mistaken, you are an adventurer, yes? I've something you might be able to help me with, if you're willing. In addition to having my stained glass on display, it's been arranged that a wandering minstrel give a recital as part of the festivities. I'm looking to gather as many spectators as possible, but I fear I'll struggle to cover the necessary ground by myself. Perhaps you could give me a hand?
Ginger smiles and pats her chest. It's her way of saying "I gotchu, fam."
Twelve bless you, madam! I plan to hand out these flyers, and with two of us, we'll be able to reach twice the number of people in the same span of time. If you'd be so kind as to look for potential attendees around the Steps of Thal, I'll head for the Sapphire Avenue Exchange. Let's meet there when you're done.
All we need to do is run around and hand out some fliers. And The closest one is just up the Ruby Road Exchange and through the zone transition.
I'm not gonna keep linking to A New Hope, Sultana Dreaming, and Answers (Reprise) as we move around. So just assume one of those is playing in every cutscene. I'm pretty sure if I linked every time non cutscene background music changed, I'd double the length of these updates by just that alone!
(Obviously Affluent Citizen) Yes?
Ginger hands this over to the large wealthy man.
(Obviously Affluent Citizen) Hmm... That does sound rather intriguing. If it's the same minstrel my associates have mentioned on occasion, I had best go and see what all the fuss it about. I hear he's rather talented.
(Eminently Approachable Citizen) Stained glass? Depicting the sultana herself, no less. I've always been a loyal supporter of hers, and it would remiss of me to pass up such an opportunity. I shall be sure to attend.
(Noticeably Dusty Citizen) Hmm... Can't say I'm much of an expert when it comes to music and fine art, but it ain't often a bloke like me gets a chance to sample the high life. I'd be a fool to miss it!
J'bhen has encountered a pair of folks.
(Disgruntled Merchant) Of all the rotten luck...
If I didn't know better, I'd think you were trying to avoid me...
All done? Much appreciated, but I'm afraid I've run into a bit of a problem... I was in the process of a handing a flyer to this gentleman, when my friend Astin showed up out of the blue. As chance would have it, these two chaps are previously acquainted, though they do not appear to be on particularly good terms...
- Fracture
(Disgruntled Merchant) But how am I supposed to pay you back if the amount keeps going up!?
If you'd coughed up the money on the day we'd originally agreed, there wouldn't be so much interest to pay. You've only got yourself to blame.
But Astin, if your interest rates weren't so high, perhaps he'd have been able to pay you back by now. I'm not saying you should wipe the slate clean, but surely you can come to a compromise?
All I want is for him to honor our agreement. What's wrong with that? Besides, I've held up my side of the bargain, so why do I have to be the one to compromise? <sigh> But let's say I give you the benefit of the doubt, that you genuinely lack the means to pay me back. I'll grant you one week's extension, but if you still don't have the money by then, there'll be consequences.
(Disgruntled Merchant) Only a week? All right, you damned vulture, you'll get your gil. Then I'll be rid of you for good.
I'm sad to say that such incidents are part of everyday life in Ul'dah. Someone in financial difficulty sees a moneylender as the answer to their woes, like an oasis in the desert. But it's only a mirage, an illusion of salvation, leading them into even greater debt.
Payday Loans have come to Ul'dah, I see.
Then again, many debtors will borrow money without any intention of paying it back, relying on an endless stream of short-term solutions. <sigh> I hope that those who look upon my art will remember the words of the sultana, and seek to help rather than exploit one another. Those two chaps you saw arguing just now would benefit from it, I'm sure. You know, Astin wasn't always like that. He's picked me up when I was down more times than I can count.
We both grew up on the streets of Ul'dah with no one to turn to but each other. The only reason I'm even here today-making a living as an artist, of all things-is because of Astin and his talent for business. With a few words and a couple of handshakes, he could turn a gil into a goldmine.
- Tranquility
But as the years passed, it became an obsession. No matter how much coin he made, it was never enough. I wish he'd realize there's more to life than personal gain, but nothing I say gets through to him. That's part of the reason why I turned to stained glass art in the first place. It can express my inner thoughts far better than words ever could. Well, my words, at any rate.
Oh goodness, I do apologize! You must think I'm an awful bore to rope you into helping only to bombard you with complaints and sob stories. But enough of that-it's high time I returned to the exhibition and prepared for the arrival of the minstrel.
If we'd known this would happen, we would never have gone near it!
Oh dear... oh dear indeed.
Ah, there you are. I hate to say this, but we've run into a slight problem. And by "slight problem," I actually mean "rather a huge catastrophe." So huge, in fact, I need a moment to compose myself. While I'm loath to impose on you any further, I've a feeling I may need your help again, or at least some moral support...
The item on the left is pretty big spoilers for Shadowbringers, so I'm not gonna show its description at the end.
All right, enough panicking, it's time for decisive action! While we were out distributing flyers, these children were a little overzealous when it came to admiring my artwork. It seems they were unaware of the "look but don't touch" rule that normally applies to these things, and...well, it fell on the floor and shattered.
I suggest staging a play based on the same scene. I'll be Nanamo.
It really says that. There's a choice here and both lead to the same outcome. I have no idea what the top answer is remotely referring to.
Not the first thought that crossed my mind, I must admit. The recital is due to begin any moment now, so the only viable option is to repair the smashed pane as best we can. I think that with a little adhesive here and there, the spectators will hardly notice the cracks.
Unfortunately, I don't have any to hand at present. While I run off to fetch some bonding agent from the Alchemists' Guild, perhaps you could try piecing the broken glass back together? Don't worry, I'll show you how it's done.
Normally I'm either not a fan of or mildly indifferent to the minigames in the seasonal events. This one, though? I fucking love this one. But I'm also one of those people who can relax with a jigsaw puzzle. That's all it is, and it's not really a hard one either!
The usual rules apply. Either look for edge pieces, or look for where the jagged ends fit together.
And before too long...
This was a lot of fun, especially compared to some of the nonsense other seasonal events ask you to go through. The jumping puzzle from last year's Moonfire Faire was also a lot of fun! And both of these are a lot better than Guitar Hero but with a choir, or the fucking tether and memory matching minigames from Valentione's.
Yes, that's perfect! With a few dabs of adhesive, it'll be as good as new. Well, almost. It should certainly suffice for the time being, though!
All's well that ends well, yes? The children were beside themselves with worry, but now, they're as delighted as I am!
*says something*
*nods and runs off*
Ginger's asking him something here.
...Hm? Oh, just a moment of nostalgia. I know from firsthand experience that moment of horror that comes when breaking an expensive piece of glass. A few years ago, I was helping Astin with one of his ventures as an art dealer. I was in desperate need of gil so he hired me to transport a few pieces. That was when I dropped a case containing some valuable stained glass, and...I'll never forget the awful sound it made.
But rather than curse me for my clumsiness or fret over the money it had cost him, his only concern was whether I'd cut myself on any of the shards. So you see, that's why I don't blame the children for their little misadventure. I suppose I'm following Astin's example.
J'bhen Tia is a good guy. 
Hmm... Actually, there's one more favor I'd like to ask of you.
Another gesture that's gonna become a staple of Ginger's repertoire. This one is the "look at someone out of the corner of your eyes and tilt your head like a dog" move. It means "what?"
I think if Astin were to see my stained glass, it might remind him of the days when there were things more important to him than money. Of course, I've tried various approaches in the past, and most of what I say to him goes in one ear and out the other. But if were to come from someone else, such as your good self, he might be more inclined to listen. Would you mind having a word with him? You're too kind! Perhaps you could start by handing him this flyer and going from there...
Up on her tiptoes to accept the flier from Bhen!
I expect he's in the Quicksand, where he carries out much of his business. His clients tend to be a bit more malleable when they're in their cups, it seems. Anyway, if you could rouse his interest in the festivities, we'll leave the rest to him.
Over in the Quicksand, we find Astin leaning against a wall trying to pull of the Bad Boy look.
I remember you. Bhen's assistant, yes? Or maybe he's yours... Either way, I appreciate you looking out for him. He needs all the help he can get. Though I must say, if you've something that requires my attention, I'd rather you kept it brief.
*hands over flier*
Yes, I know all about Bhen's exhibit, thank you. Keeping my ear to the ground as I do, there's little that goes on in Ul'dah that escapes my notice. So why did he send you to advertise it to me? He wants to remind me of the good old days? I might've guessed it would be something as soppy as that. A lot's changed since then, but he's still the same daft sod he's always been.
Not that it's necessarily a bad thing, mind you. It's his sentimental side that allows him to create such...evocative works of art. But I always felt that if he tried to make a living out of it, he'd lose the very essence of what makes his pieces so special in the first place. Rather than expressing himself, he'd have to pander to the tastes of wealthy but fickle clients to turn a profit.
That's why I wanted to earn enough for the both of us, so he'd be free to pursue his dreams. While he doesn't need me to pay for his bed and board anymore, I'm still around to help him if he falls on hard times. And just to make it perfectly clear, it's not that I don't want to attend the exhibition. I decided not to go because if people were to think that Bhen is associated with a moneylender like me, it would ruin his good reputation. But if he insists that I go, perhaps I can make an appearance without drawing too much attention. Tell him I'll think about it, would you?
The road to Hell and so on. He drags his own name through the mud to ensure his friend can work in peace and relative safety. I'd feel bad for him, but he takes advantage of those that are most vulnerable with astronomical interest rates. Thank god Ul'dah is too static to ever see a revolution, because he'd be first against the wall if the lower classes ever rose up!
Back to Bhen we go!
So, what did he say? Whatever the outcome, I'm very grateful for all you've done. And I'm sure you'll be pleased to hear I've saved you the perfect spot from which to view the event!
The children are back with presumably their parents!
And out on stage comes...
Citizens of Ul'dah! By my words be transported to the days before the Calamity, a time when all hope seemed lost. As the lesser moon hung low in the sky, a wave of terror washed over this fair city, turning neighbor against neighbor, brother against brother. There, in the midst of chaos, she stood defiantly. And so our tale begins. Hearken now to "The Sultana's Seven..."
This is the wandering minstrel. We're still at the start of our adventure, so we don't really have much cause to meet him yet. He plays much more of a role at higher levels, so we'll see him whenever the LP gets to the end of the A Realm Reborn content. He's apparently an in game representation of Naoki Yoshida, the game's producer.
The crowds disperse.
Astonishing! I could see the events of that fateful day in my mind's eye as vividly as I see you now! Such a profoundly moving performance would surely have touched the hearts of everyone in attendance.
And here comes Astin!
Astin! You came after all!
An artist you may be, but subtle you are not. "Now is not the time to take from your neighbor, but to proffer him the hand of succor." A message to all of Ul'dah, I'm sure, but also one meant specifically for me. I have to admit, the sultana made a good point, and it still stands to this day. Maybe it's time I thought about earning an honest living...
I knew you'd come around sooner or later! And Astin, I can take care of myself now, so you needn't go to such lengths to support me.
I'm glad to hear it, but let's get one thing straight: I didn't become a moneylender just to cover your expenses while you carved out a career as an artist. I just didn't want you to compromise your ideals and the quality of your work for the sake of keeping a roof over your head. Now you can concentrate on doing what you do best: bringing joy to people through your art.
As for me, I should find a better use for my skills. Perhaps I could go back to being an art dealer. That way, you can create whatever works you please while I seek out potential buyers. It certainly beats making commissioned pieces for some pretentious buffoon.
You're suggesting we go into business together?
Yes, unless you have any objections to working with a very recently reformed moneylender?
Of course not! And I know just where to start: producing more panes featuring the sultana and her seven trusty followers! Imagine the streets of Ul'dah lined with stained glass depicting its illustrious history. The sparkling jewel of the desert will shine brighter than ever!
This is more than I could've dreamed of. Of course, none of this would've possible without your kindness, Ginger. You probably hear effusive words of praise quite often in your line of work, but I sincerely mean it: Thank you for all you've done.
Oh, and there was one other thing I meant to tell you. The wandering minstrel was ah... wondering if he could have a word with you. In fact, he has a present of sorts to give you. He should be somewhere nearby. Best of luck finding him!
The minstrel is hiding by the elevator just up the street.
Ah, you are come, as I knew you would. J'Bhen Tia speaks very highly of not only your skill at piecing together broken glass, but of your loyalty and compassion. Your virtues are many and varied indeed.
Were it not for your contribution, the festival would have been without its centerpiece. My accompaniment of song was naught but a garnish to the fine dish that was our mutual friend's glorious work of art. Perhaps you will allow me to express my gratitude with another piece I have composed?
The minstrel's playing is so bad it gives Ginger a headache.
Prelude ~ Discoveries
I strongly advise you to not read the comments. (On any video really, but this one especially.)
Ginger pops into character creation space and looks around.
Oh... I see Dalamud is back.
Greetings, Warrior of Light. You needn't be alarmed.
It's the Sultana's Seven! We've actually already met six of them: the five Cocos and Papashan. The seventh is someone, I shit you not, we will not meet until one of the very final updates of this LP. His name is Pipin and he's Raubahn's adopted son. I tell you this now because if you aren't familiar with FFXIV, then you won't probably remember anyway when that time actually comes around.
You can always tell who Pipin is because his hair is fabulous.
And out from behind them comes... someone wearing Gunbreaker armor.
And Nanamo to boot! The gang's all here!
This is a world that exists outside your reality. Could it be a dream? A flight of fancy conjured by your weary mind? Perhaps...or perhaps not. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Naoki Yoshida. It gives me great pleasure to finally meet you, brave soul who has chosen a life of adventure.
Your travels have taken you to lands far and wide, and you have encountered people of all walks of life, each with their own ideals, hopes, and dreams.
As time flows onward in a never-ending spiral, the course of history is guided by mortal hands. Though our existence be brief, our deeds echo for eternity. Seven years have passed since the lesser moon descended. Seven years since mankind rose from the ashes. 'Twas a spectacle none shall ever forget, and that they live to tell the tale is cause for both celebration and reflection.
This update is "in the present" as it were. We'll be finding out in the next update that where Ginger is at timeline-wise, the city-states are about to celebrate the fifth year since the Calamity!
When we cast our minds back, it is not sorrow that fills our hearts, but joy. For we have been afforded a second chance, that we may learn from the lessons of the past. As we set forth towards new horizons, those with a thirst for adventure will lead the way. While there may be hardships and strife on the road ahead, there is no obstacle that we cannot overcome if we believe in ourselves...and each other.
Countless kindred spirits share our journey, and it is through mutual respect and understanding that we may create a better world. The future is what we make it, by our words and deeds, and we will forever be at your side, brave adventurer. You have our undying gratitude, now and always.
...The time has come for this vision to end; time for your eyes to open from this waking dream. Ever will we be watching over you and your deeds. Guide the realm unto peace and happiness, Warrior of Light...
From one Yoship avatar to another.
And lo, you are returned. Pray tell, are you left with pleasant memories, fleeting though they may be?
*smiles and nods*
That is well, for such visions are wont to fade all too quickly, as the morning dew in the light of the rising sun. Mayhap another of my verses would make a suitable gift ere we part?
In the wake of calamity, Light descends once more,
To illuminate a world reborn, risen from fires of war.
'Neath the eyes of heaven, deception crumbles to dust,
Those divided by malice, united by bonds of trust.
On fields awash in crimson, battle raged far and wide
In the name of liberty, the courageous few turn the tide.
Unto a distant realm, drowned in radiance unrelenting,
Strides forth the harbinger of night, iron will unbending.
*sound of a distant explosion*
...For the sake of their loved ones, there are those who take to the battlefield. And yet, those who remain behind have their roles to play. Protectors and the protected, providers and the provided for. Principles upon which every nation is built.
It is the duty of those who rule to ensure that these elements are kept in balance, even if they must face great peril. The words of the sultana ring as true in the here and now as they did on that fateful day. May each of us take them to heart as we face the new dawn as one.
Ginger smiles but doesn't have anything to add.
Sometimes you don't need to say anything.
I was gonna end the update on that peaceful note, but after I got out of the cutscene, something kinda neat happened!
Meeting a fan of the LP in the wild was pretty cool! Nobody knew I was recording this afternoon, so this was 100% a chance encounter. If you play on Ultros (or are on Primal) be sure to keep an eye out for Ginger! I may not have much to say at the time, but I'm always open to say hello regardless!
Anyway, that's all for now. Next time, we see just what happened while Ginger had her little episode at the banquet!