Eithne Cuinn
Closest Allies
Minfilia, Tataru, Alphinaud
Likes
Hydaelyn, Recognition
Dislikes
Beast Tribes, Eikons
2.0
Fresh-faced and desperate for clues regarding her purpose, Eithne arrives in Gridania. Surprised by the people's kindness and willingness to help a new and, self-admittedly, awkward adventurer helps solidify her resolve to chase the Mothercrystal's voice to wherever it may lead. She's no longer the little kernel here, Mother Miounne's eyes show not the pity nor exasperation Eithne has long become accustomed to. Instead, Eithne sees hope in them; and perhaps, she thinks, even a bit of pride. She'll do anything to prove herself.
Meeting the Scions, and Minfilia's acknowledgement of the Mothercrystal's blessing-- the Echo, as she called it, is the last piece Eithne had been searching for. Finally, she's been validated, her blessing acknowledged, her abilities empowered. This is where she was meant to be. She had even been blessed to encounter like-minded allies! Eithne keenly feels the warmth of Hydaelyn's light guiding here way, comforting her, despite the growing losses left in each calamity's wake.
After the siege on the Ultimate Weapon, Eithne cannot imagine she was destined to do anything else. The title of Eorzea's Champion fits her like a glove, and she relishes the feeling of comfort it gives her. To risk her life is an honor, her scars proving her worthy of Hydaelyn's love.
2.1 -> 2.5
Despite all of her victories, the religious fervor of the beast tribes quickens, and Eithne cannot help the burning she feels in her heart at the sight of all. The land continues to be bled dry, and the opposition she feels growing causes her nothing but confusion. Still, she is comforted in the brilliance of her allies, who all seem to excel in all the ways she fails at. She must get stronger, for it is the only thing she has to offer. If it wasn't, then why would Hydaelyn have crowned her Her Champion.
With the Crystal Braves established, Eithne's confidence grows. She will have time to focus on her duties, her righteous path, thanks to Alphinaud's plans. As they grow closer, she knows that in order for the Scions to succeed, she must protect him too. For all the good he puts forward in the world, he deserves it back tenfold. Hydaelyn always rewards the virtous, and as the embodiment of her will, Eithne shall see it done.
Minfilia as well, whom Eithne knows is filled with as much righteous fury as her own. If there is anyone whom Eithne trusts, it would be the two of them. Moenbryda's heroic sacrifice will not be for naught; Hydaelyn will win.
2.5 -> 2.55: Before the Fall
Despite the grief, Eithne feels as if she has reached heights she had never before dreamed. Not only did this strength, which Eithne knows is only here thanks to the Mothercrystal's blessing, fulfill her own dreams, but they also allowed others to reach their own. All of her allies, her dear friends... They stand so proud, they call her a hero! Never had she felt more joy, than in the moments when she looks back, battered and bruised, at their triumphant smiles, their kind eyes, their warm words...
However, this brief taste of fulfillment is quickly expunged. Tragedy strikes, and the ever so strong and proud Eithne is unable to do a single thing to stop it. She had tolerated their politics, their schemes, all to see Hydaelyn's will come to fruition. She had raised her cane, mended their wounds, exhausted her body to the limits! Yet, when she closes her eyes, all she sees is Nanamo's tears, her small hand reaching out to the so called hero, who could do nothing but watch.
Even beyond that, there was nothing but the screaming, and then the quickly fading footsteps, all those who she had thought to be allies abandoning her and her loved ones amongst the snakes, the blood. And then— Piercing blue eyes, her lovely voice the thread keeping her tattered heart together.
"As long as your flame continues to burn, the light of the dawn may ever be relit!"
Was it not enough, Hydaelyn? Have I failed you?