Jel's Dialogue

Hellloo... I am Jel Omiata.

Yes, Omiata, as in the House of Omiata.

You know... the most renowned fashion empire in the whole Bahari province.

You haven't heard of the House of Omiata?

...well, I suppose you DID just materialize out of thin air yesterday. So you have a valid excuse.

Tell me, what do you think of the fashion on display at this shop?

There you are, my most discerning customer.

You'll find a few new custom pieces in the back.

Do you like my latest collection?

I was inspired by the color of autumn leaves.

It's strange how sometimes death can be just as captivating as life.....

Inspiration can come at any moment. Best to be working when it finds you.

Did you know that I have five sisters?

Yes, my mother has accepted all of them into the House of Omiata. I am the only one in my family still on their pilgrimage.

But you know what they say, the last lily of the summer to bloom is often the most beautiful.

When you try to choose the perfect outfit, think of the life you want to lead, and then picture how that person dresses.

I believe you can have any life you set your mind to...as long as you dress the part.

Growing up with five sisters was no easy feat, though I count myself rather fortunate to have spent my formative years surrounded by such strong women.

No matter how many times I return to them, the stars and the seas will always hold inspiration for me.

Seabreeze, Stargazed, many successful lines have started with these simple joys of nature.

My sisters have always been my biggest supporters. I received my first negative critique of a piece I had made at the age of five and they had thoughts about it.

I distinctly remember the sight of all seven of them lined up in a row outside the professor's door. Arms crossed, brows furrowed and a look of simmering rage on their faces.

Historically, warriors wore armor into battle. After all, one must wear the right clothes for the job.

Luckily, we now live in a time of peace. But I do find so much inspiration comes from history.

It is through history's lens that I interpret my designs: our modern clothing is armor for the everyday, and I am helping prepare my customers with the confidence they need for their lives.

Alas, I cannot control when inspiration strikes. Sometimes, it hits long after midnight.

Many famous creatives would go to bed whenever mood struck and rise whenever the mood struck!

If only I didn't have to open the shop every morning, them maybe I could sleep in for once...

I have been longing to see this new clothing line that has begun to appear in major cities. Embrasque, I think it's called?

The designs are inspired by the Phoenix and the legends that accompany her!

In fact, they say the designer is Human themselves. Fascinating! It warms me to know you and your people are finding success in this world.

Style is not always about who you are, but rather who you wish to be. Make sure to keep that in mind when you're picking out your next outfit.

And remember: if you can wear it, you can be it.

Oh there's nothing so beautiful as a Bahari sundown surrounded by Paper Lantern Bugs!

One day, I would love to make a collection that glows just like these little creatures.

I wonder what I could use for this effect. Other than Flow, of course. I wouldn't want to risk an audit from the Order.

Sure the commission I get from each creation is nice, but I'm not in it for the gold.

The look of excitement on a patron's face when they see our vision come to life is priceless.

Knowing that I helped someone show who they are to the world? That is what makes it all worthwhile.

If you see Tish, could you ask if she's upset with me?

I wrote her a letter this morning, but she hasn't responded yet.

Oh dear, silly me, the letter it is still in my pocket, it seems I have forgotten to send it.

When I was young, right after I selected my Path as a tailor, I traveled around the continent. I need inspiration, you see.

Fashion, well... I knew I wanted to make clothes to express myself, for others to express themselves, but I had no idea what I wanted to express.

I knew I wanted to be part of the Omiata line, trace the same footsteps as my mother and sisters, but I would only be worthy if I could contribute my own voice.

Unfortunately, I returned with many new ideas and no new direction. All I could do was keep designing and hope my vision would one day form.

Just between you and me, I feel Reth would have quite a bit of success as a model if he were to put his mind to it.

He exudes an air of competence and mystique that can make any designer's clothes look good.

If only he did not dress himself in soup-stained tatters!

Hmm... perhaps Tish could make him more amenable a makeover?

I find aquatic animals to be such a source of inspiration. Their diaphonous colors both under and above water is something I have longed to capture in fabric.

I've gotten close! You can do some impressive things with layered silks and satins.

But as for fish I enjoy eating... it has to be the plain old Oily Anchovy! It may not be much to look at, but it certainly tastes wonderful. Especially with tomatoes on afternoon toast.

When I was a boy, there was a promising young designer who studying under my mother, an apprentice seamstress within the House of Omiata.

I thought she would stay with us forever, but by the time I grew up, she chose to leave and start her own line.

Rosalyn Rouge has become a success in her own right. Even I carry her pieces in my shop sometimes!

On one hand, I admire her bravery to make something all her own.

And on the other... and I am a little ashamed of this... I am deeply envious.

Want to know what the secret for the perfume I use for my store?

It's stinkbug musk.

Yes...I know its musk may seem unpleasant at first.

But when combined with some wild roses, the scent can be intoxicating.

Well, if it isn't my favorite farmer.

You'll find some hats in the back that will not only keep the sun off your face while you harvest your crops...

...but they'll help you look good while you do it.

Good timing!

I got some new silks in from the Akwindu province the other day that I think will do wonders for your complexion.

You may notice that the fashion here changes daily.

I don't know about you, but I crave variety.

I find every day is another chance to be someone new.

Choose your look wisely.

Style is a way of telling other people who you are without having to whisper a word.

The Elderwoods is quite an inspiration for my art.

I find the flora and the fauna there sets a certain...vibe, that I very much appreciate.

I missed you, my muse. Next time, don't be away so long.

Sometimes, I feel I am opening my soul to the world when I make a collection.

Every stitch, every fold, is the manifestation of some small hope, some small anxiety.

And I am drawing from this well day by day to meet the demands of my customers. It makes me happy to make them happy. But...

In the end, what will be left for me? What is at the bottom of the well? Will I burn this candle out too fast?

There is something that weighs on me, and I think it will forevermore. It was was a foolish childhood mistake, but thinking on that day still upsets me.

When I was a child, even younger than our dear Auni, I yearned for our mother's approval, to feel like a member of the House of Omiata.

You see, my sisters were all so talented from the very beginning, even before any of us had selected our Paths.

But Sekai... she is closest to me in age... I snuck into her room and took one of her sketchbooks. I showed it to our mother and

Of course, they all could tell who really drew it, and I got the talking-to of a lifetime.

They forgave my youthful indiscretion quite quickly, but it's a moment I will never forget It's one more reason why I feel I must prove myself.

The sounds of the waves are beautiful, are they not?

I've always thought that when I die, I'd like to die by drowning.

That way, I'll at least be surrounded by the beauty of the sea when I go..

A. B. C. Always be creating. It's a good mantra to have when you live for art.

There are many ingredients in the Valley that allow you to make beautiful dyes.

You just have to look hard enough, and you'll find beauty in the most unexpected of places.

I never got the chance to ask. Are you an artist?

Excuse me if I look stunned, but the halo created by the light hitting your hair is exquisite this morning.

My head is always so foggy at this time in the morning.

Do you ever awaken from a dream that felt so real that you question whether or not reality is truly the dream?

Morning's have never been my forte.

Just say what you've come to say and leave me to mourn the moonlight in peace.

Today I watch the dawn with dread.

I awoke this morning to find my mind wrapped in a blanket of melancholy and despair.

But still I move forward, hoping tomorrow will bring a better dawn.

The sound of the waves are beautiful, are they not?

I've always thought that when I die, I'd like to die by drowning.

That way, I'll at least be surrounded by the beauty of the sea when I go..

Did you know that every grain of sand here used to be part of some sort of shell or coral?

I find it's important to remind ourselves that change is an opportunity for a new sort of beauty.

The way the crickets sing at night reminds me of a symphony.

Do you like the symphony? My mother used to take me and my sisters all the time when I was younger.

The music was beautiful. But, alas, still not as beautiful as the songs of nature.

The fire of the Phoenix moon has been brighter since the Humans emerged.

I think that has to mean something.

Having you around in nights like this makes the pain of life just a little duller.

Thank you for that.

After work, I like to take long walks in nature to look for inspiration.

After all, no one artist is greater than the dragon himself.

I swear I saw the most beautiful creature roaming the outskirts of the Elderwoods the other night.

Others are afraid of it and call it a monster.

But I believe it is just misunderstood.

I have always wanted to make a dress that looks like the night sky -- deep purple with shiny stones.

But every attempt I make, the real dress falls short of the dress I have in my imagination.

Some days I fear that when I go to sleep I will be so lost in my dreams that I will never wake up.

...And some days I wish for it.

I'm out looking for materials for my latest creation.

Let me know if you spot any spiral shells.

They make the most interesting buttons.

Fashion often purports to change with the times, but I believe there's plenty of success to be found in Majiri tradition.

That's why both Hearth Haven and Simply Classic have done so well from their founding to this very day.

I mean, I admire them. They make people happy and look good while they're at it.

But... it's not the style of clothing I want to make, you know?

Dear friend, I have found myself in the worst predicament. I have too many things to do and am paralyzed by the sheer weight of it all.

Where do I even start? Sometimes, it is better to be bored than be so busy!

You know, it's not every artist that has a patron as generous as you.

I don't know what I did to deserve to have you in my life.

But I hope I continue to be worthy of all that you give me.

Please stay with me just a moment longer if you can.

I do fear where my thoughts might go if I linger here alone too long....

As one of my closest friends... I think... I think can ask you this.

Will you help me? Tell me, what might inspire my next collection?

I always hope that every garment I make to be better than the last. But sometimes, that isn't true, and what I've sewn is well... utter garbage.

I know that success is never a linear upward trajectory. But for every disappointing dress I make, I can't help but wonder... what if that was my last success?

What if I have peaked and did not even realize it?

Oh! As soon as you arrived, I had the most wonderful epiphany.

I've been planning to make a cape out of butterfly wings, but I should have been using a Nightmoth design

Oh, do tell me you'll stay longer. I'd love to see if further inspiration strikes.

As much as I love this town, I do wish we had more music festivals. In the bigger cities, you could find a performance almost every night!

Although the silence can help for working, it really does dampen the process of ideation.

The barn? That's not exactly the concert venue I pictured... Well, I do hope Badruu doesn't mind...

Last might I made a small change to my nightly walk and I heard the most magical song coming from the farm. It was quaint... rustic yet charming. I must create something for it.

I am friends with many people in this town, but only Tish is a dear, kindred, spirit who also lives in the realm of design.

I was worried about her for the longest time. I knew hear health was failing, but out of respect, I did not pry.

She did, though, confide in me that her greatest worry was that she would lose the ability to create.

That is, of course, something I can certainly relate to.

I am very thankful that she has had such a miraculous recovery. I don't know what I'd do without her.

Be still my heart. Is that MY pin? I am truly honored to see you feel the same connection I do.

Caleri shared some sketches of some ceremonial garb that you recently found in the Elderwoods.

The detailed thread work is so beautiful, I almost cried.

I reached out to a master seamstress in Nocturne to see if she could train me in her techniques, and to make sure if it was okay if I incorporate some of her ideas into my designs.

The sight of you brings peace to my tormented thoughts, Player.

Player! I was just thinking about you.

I saw this fabric yesterday and couldn't help but think of you, my muse.

The subtle luster of the weave, the vibrant colors...

Take it, but you must not tell me what you do with it! My heart can't bear knowing.

+ 3

You're wearing quite an interesting outfit today. What material is it made of?

My day was dull until you came around, Player.

Oh good. You're here. I'm trying to figure out what to put up front.

Tell me, what is the most captivating thing in this room?

Well...I'd be lying if I said that wasn't the perfect response.

However, I can't exactly put that on display, can I?

I'd rather that particular item be reserved for one special customer.

You have a most peculiar look in your eyes today, Player.

I was up all night, tormented with artist's block.

I must admit, I am getting used to these visits.

Yes, my muse?

Thank you for these chocolates.

Their sweetness shall remind me of the sweet moments I spend with you.

Thank you for these flowers.

Let's hope our relationship will bloom as beautiful as these blossoms have.

Once evening approaches, I will be making my way over to the Maji Market.

If my timing is right, I should get there just as the sun is beginning to dip into the horizon, bathing the market with its warm glow... and painting a sight that'll inspire my next design.

When I first heard about the Maji Market, I was delighted at the opportunity tp showcase and sell my work... but alas, that was not meant to be.

When those fireworks went off, my heart just about burst from my chest!

Then a runaway chapaa crashed into me, nearly sending me toppling into the water!

Thankfully, Tish caught me before I could fall. Had she been a second later, I would have gone for a swim with the fish, possibly for eternity...

My, quite some time has passed since I last stepped foot in a market like this.

The last one I went to was a Maji Market in Bahari City with my mother and sisters.

Maji Markets happen all across Palia. They take place exclusively in the evenings, with cultural sights and activities unique to their respective regions.

They are not to be confused with the average flea market.

The booths were flush with colorful clothes and authentic tapestries from all over the world, along with regional specialties to delight even the pickiest of taste palates.

Though Kilima's Maji Market pales in comparison, it is not without its own charms... One such being the Halo Halo from Delaila's Sweet Treats. I can’t seem to get enough of it!

I imagine you’ve seen Kenyatta's chapaa onesie by now. What do you think about it?

I am doing something different than usual tonight. I will be attending the Maji Market to celebrate the Luna New Year.

I hope to eat some delicious food and gain fresh new design inspirations while I am at it.

Of the plethora of holidays we celebrate here in Palia, Luna New Year is among my favorite.

As I stroll through the market, I am reminded of the Luna New Years of my childhood, which were spent with my dear mother Barinka and my siblings in Bahari City.

I imagine they are all indulging in extravagant festivities at the moment. I, however, prefer the comfortable intimacy a smaller celebration like Kilima's provides.

Kilima's first Maji Market was charming and quaint. This year's is much grander in scale and rightfully so for Luna New Year.

The wish tree is simply delightful, and so are all of the colorful lanterns. I feel a design inspiration coming on already.

I am not ashamed to admit it took me a long time to decide what I wanted to wish for this year.

I found myself at a crossroads, unable to choose between the many paths that lay ahead of me... But among those options, there was only one that truly called my name.

In the off-chance that wish were to come true this year, I would be beside myself with joy.

The Maji Market is usually charming and quaint... It seems that for the Luna New Year, it's much grander in scale.

The wish tree is simply delightful, and so are all of the colorful lanterns. I feel a design inspiration coming on already.