Between the Lines

Wednesdays 8PM - 10PM Central Time USAMateus - Shirogane - Ward 9 - Plot 46Teleport Anchors Available By Request

Are you in search of a rare tome or knowledge lost to the ages? Perhaps a relic of unknown properties has come into your possession, and you wish to have it appraised and potentially sold to the highest bidder? Or maybe you desire an item of antiquity? We also offer translation and restoration services.Between the Lines is a library of rare (and not so rare) books, esoterica, and antiquities. The library is open on Wednesday nights (Central Time USA) or by appointment for discerning individuals who can afford the wares.And remember, not all things may be bought with gil...

Feature Collection

Hearts Entwined – A Celebration of Romance

This Valentione’s season, indulge in tales of passion, devotion, and love that defies time itself! Hearts Entwined showcases a curated selection of romance novels, from star-crossed lovers and daring courtships to enchanted trysts and fated soulmates. Whether you seek the thrill of forbidden love, the charm of lighthearted flirtations, or the aching beauty of love lost and found, this collection offers stories to stir the heart... or the nethers. Featuring Eorzean classics, Hingashi poetry, and even Mhachi epics wrapped in mystery, these books promise to enchant and inspire.


About

Between the Lines is a library role play venue open on Wednesday nights from 8-10 PM Central Time (USA) or by appointment! While there are multiple branches of the library, the main branch is on Mateus. Appointments might take place at other locations.Please understand that we run on a shoestring staff; it's literally myself and a couple of others when they are available. We cannot be everywhere all at once. Yes, I am usually dual boxing the proprietor and the doorman. If you wish to interact with the latter, please send that character a tell.Between the Lines may be a largely self-guided experience for visitors, but we will do our best to interact at least minimally with every patron who steps through our doors. If you have any questions about the layout of the venue (i.e., where the various genre sections are located), please reach out to the staff, and we're happy to give you directions so you can role play accordingly.Between the Lines is also a Free Company on the Mateus server of the Crystal Data Center (North America). Interested in joining a creepy occult "library" FC run by a suspicious figure with the tag <BOOKS>? Let me know, and I'm happy to give your character an IC interview.

Staff

The Majordomo

Sokhor, as most know him, serves as Qaelemont's Majordomo, managing the Elezen's estates and affairs with a quiet, authoritative presence whenever Qaelemont is otherwise occupied. This tall, enigmatic Xaela is the senior-most member of Qaelemont's staff, with all others deferring to his judgment in the absence of their master. His age is indeterminate, though he appears to be in his thirties, yet there is something unsettling about him—particularly his eerie, thousand-malm gaze that seems to pierce through the veil of the mortal realm and into something far beyond. His presence is most often felt during the night, when he oversees the household in the hours of darkness.

Naohiro

The second in command among Qaelemont's staff is Naohiro, a Raen whose near-silent efficiency rivals that of Sokhor. Though he occasionally engages in conversation, it is always with measured brevity, revealing only what is essential to address a question or convey important information. While Naohiro may not exude the same unsettling aura as Sokhor, there is an unmistakable peculiarity about him that can be disconcerting. His watch is typically during the daylight hours, ensuring the smooth operation of the household under the sun's gaze.

Deryk

A familiar face in the library, Deryk greets everyone with a warm smile and a cheerful wave. The ginger-haired Hyurzen, rarely seen far from Qaelemont's side, can occasionally be found tending to various parts of the estate when his master is away. In his early twenties, Deryk’s emerald eyes sparkle with youthful energy, and his smile could melt even the coldest heart. Always eager to assist, he takes pride in helping others find the perfect tome, though one should be careful what they wish for—Deryk is more than willing to escort anyone to Qaelemont for such requests.

Devin

Devin, a loyal servant and companion, is frequently seen bustling about the grounds, always eager to lend a hand. With a bright smile and an upbeat demeanor, he takes joy in assisting everyone, especially Qaelemont and Deryk. But don’t be deceived by his innocent appearance—Devin is well-versed in the arcane arts, and while he may blush easily, he’s a formidable protector of those he holds dear. A lover of romance novels, Devin enjoys spending time in the library, though his passion for helping often sees him taking on nearly every chore in the house.

The Librarians

Tea and Tentacles

Welcome to our book club—yes, it’s that kind of book club.Between the Lines presents a one-of-a-kind experience: Tea and Tentacles, hosted by Scarlett Clover. Time to be announced!We showcase writers from all corners of Eorzea and beyond. Sip on Scarlett’s handpicked teas while enjoying an evening of poetry, short stories, skits, and more on our open stage. After the performances, there will be a brief Q&A session, followed by an informal "signing" of their works. (Tipping is encouraged but not required.)We can't wait to see you there!

Floor Plan

Between the Lines utilizes the Sharlayan Decimal System for the organization of its collection. The Reference Page mammet is always glad to assist patrons in finding the perfect book if they're unable to navigate the card catalogue at the center of the library by themselves.

Application

Interested in joining the Between the Lines team? We invite you to join our Discord server, where you can get to know our community, explore the atmosphere, and discover the various roleplay opportunities available. Within the server, you'll find a staff application link, and note that an in-character interview is required for all potential employees.Please be aware that Void Hunter-type characters are generally not considered for employment. Lawfully aligned characters may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Between the Lines is managed by a villainous character and staffed by the same. It is an occult/dark/horror-themed RP community that maintains a facade of civility and normalcy. We expect all staff members to be at least 18 years old (preferably 21+) and to conduct themselves in a mature, respectful, and adult manner.

Rules

1. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this venue. While business hours are Safe For Work, there may be Mature IC themes (occult, horror, etc.) discussed during library hours pertinent to in game subjects.2. Be polite and respectful. No attacking allowed. If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all. Disagreements are allowed, but keep them civil or take them to private channels (party, tells, etc.). While intellectual debate is allowed and encouraged, hostilities are not permitted on the premisis.3. No politics, no religion, and no conspiracy theories about real life subjects. Want to theorycraft and discuss in game politics, religion and conspiracies? Have at it. But leave real life issues at the door.4. No hate speech. This is a sex, kink, and equality positive space. Between the Lines is not an ERP venue, but we acknowledge that people are allowed, within reason, to be free to express themselves. Please no nudity or any sexual behavior which might offend non-consenting parties.5. No trolls allowed.6. Nothing underaged allowed in an NSFW form. This is to include loli and shota images/writings. Anything under 18 years old is considered underaged. The caveats to this rule are historical and factual artistic and literary references to such art and literature may be discussed (but NOT in detail) and that ageplay can be discussed as long as it is abundantly clear that the participants are consenting adults. Characters which appear to be minors are also not allowed. Lalafells are welcome to participate in the venue, but may not interact in an NSFW manner.7. No harassment will be tolerated. Treat the staff and fellow patrons with respect.8. Do NOT request money, subscription time, in game gil, items, etc. from other people here. We are all adults and should be financially responsible for ourselves in and out of game. All transactions are strictly IC RP only. Nobody will ever ask you for money or items, either in game or real life. If this occurs, please report it to a member of the staff.9. Consent is still vital, even in role play. While noncon RP scenes may take place, please be certain OOC that such a scene is welcome among all participants. Understand that no means no and if someone does not want to participate in a role play with you, respect their no and move along.10. Please treat everyone with kindness and respect. This is a safe place for roleplay and for people to have fun. IC sassiness and villainy are fine, but expect IC consequences for your character's IC actions. "It's just RP" is not an excuse to trample on people's consent, and if it is brought up in OOC that it isn't really welcome, we ask you to please respect that. This venue is a place for FUN RP. If you wish to engage in conflict RP here, you MUST seek OOC consent of the staff and all participants before doing so and, again, expect IC reactions to disruptive behavior.For any questions or concerns, please reach out to any staff member.

Kugane Night Market

06 Feb 2025 - 7:00pm CDT - Coeurl - Kugane, Rakuza District

Rumors have reached you... it's a rare opportunity. Beyond the watchful eyes of the law, a renowned dealer of rare books and antiquities is preparing to offer an exclusive selection of items for discerning collectors...

Books

If you're looking for the more mundane literature to be found at Between the Lines, you might be sadly disappointed. Only select esoteric volumes have been brought for sale for this night. One might find what they seek, be it fame, fortune, power, or glory, but there is always a price to pay...

1. The Perfumed Whispers of Ser Vaillant - SOLDAppearance: Bound in crimson-dyed leather, its cover is adorned with gilded ivy filigree curling around a raised, embossed dagger with a rose entwined about its blade. The pages are vellum-thin, with pressed lilies and violets hidden between certain chapters. A faint but lingering fragrance of rose, clove, and myrrh emanates from the book, as though it remembers the tragic love affairs it holds within.Description: This scandalous Ishgardian legend tells of Ser Vaillant, a hopeless romantic who allegedly discovered a perfume infused with magic that made all who inhaled it fall desperately in love. The tale follows his doomed love affairs and eventual downfall, cautioning against using alchemy to manipulate hearts.2. The Maiden’s Bloom: Alchemical Love in the Age of Mhach - SOLDAppearance: A deep violet tome with a wax-sealed clasp bearing the sigil of Mhach, the pages are aged but shimmering. Some are stained with alchemical spills, giving hints of past experiments. The edges of the book are slightly charred, as if someone once tried to destroy it but failed.Description: A collection of long-lost Mhachi recipes for elixirs designed to inspire desire, devotion, or even obsession. Some formulas are marked with dire warnings, detailing the fates of those who failed to understand that love, when forced, turns to poison.3. A Hundred Petals, A Hundred PromisesAppearance: This book takes the form of an exquisite silk-wrapped scroll, its ivory paper infused with Thavnairian saffron and sandalwood. The title is hand-painted in gold, Hannish calligraphy, with delicate floral illustrations blooming along the margins. The ends of the scroll’s rod are capped in mother-of-pearl intricately incised with the Watchful Eye, a mark of its Thavnairian craftsmanship. A red ribbon braided from enchanted rose petals secures the scroll—those who untie it often swear they hear a faint sigh upon release.Description: A poetic treatise on the Thavnairian practice of binding fates through floral rituals. Some of the methods are benign, using petals and prayers to encourage mutual affection. Others—like the infamous "Lasting Devotion" ritual—are far more dangerous, weaving an unbreakable bond that not even death can sever.4. Cages of Silk: The Art of the Love-Knotted SpellAppearance: A thin, black leather-bound volume with crimson silk bookmarks delicately placed between certain pages. The cover is smooth yet unnervingly soft, as though it were bound in something more than mere hide. A faint scent of jasmine and burnt candlewick lingers on its surface, hinting at the rituals performed in its name.Description: A rare Hingashi manuscript detailing the practice of "love-knot magic," an ancient technique using enchanted silk to bind two souls together. Though the book offers methods for weaving mutual affection, there are whispers that some knots cannot be undone—turning love into a curse rather than a blessing.5. The Rose That Would Not WiltAppearance: A faded green book, its cloth cover embroidered with a rose that never loses its scent. The gold lettering on its spine is faintly worn, suggesting it has passed through many hands. When left untouched for too long, the edges of the pages seem to curl slightly, as though yearning to be read again.Description: A fairytale of a lonely alchemist who created a rose that would never wither, hoping to preserve love beyond time. Those who held the flower fell deeply for its creator—only to discover their affections faded the moment they let it go. A melancholic fable on the impermanence of love when forced by unnatural means.6. The Binding Oath of Saint BrianouxAppearance: An aged, leather-bound tome with a lock requiring a Valentione’s token to open. The spine is adorned with silver inlay, forming a forgotten holy sigil. The parchment within is heavy and gilded at the edges, though a few pages bear scorch marks, as if once threatened by purging flame.Description: A heretical text hidden away by the Church, describing the ancient Ishgardian Saint Brianoux, who allegedly performed “divine unions” that transcended mortal barriers. Some accounts claim he blessed lovers across different lifetimes—others whisper that he cursed them to find and lose one another again and again.7. The Enraptured Moon: A Guide to Lunar Love Magic - SOLDAppearance: A midnight-blue book with silver-inked pages that shimmer under moonlight. The front cover is inlaid with polished moonstone, glowing softly at night. When flipped through, some pages emit a faint chime, like wind whispering through silver bells.Description: A guide to love spells performed under different phases of the moon, offering harmless charms for attracting partners, spells for deepening connections, and, in its final, hidden chapter—a forbidden rite to bind two souls together for eternity, with no guarantee of happiness.8. He Who Stole the Sun: A Tale of Devotion and DesperationAppearance: A weathered, travel-worn book with faded gold lettering and a sun emblem that grows warm to the touch. The pages are cracked at the edges, and a lingering scent of sand and spice clings to the binding.Description: A tragic love story of a mage who, in desperation to win the heart of his beloved, stole the light of the sun and sealed it within a ring. Though his love was returned, his theft angered the gods, dooming the couple to eternal pursuit, forever reaching but never touching.9. Echoes of the Heart: The Spoken and the UnspokenAppearance: A lacquered wooden box containing a set of enchanted parchment sheets, each page appearing blank until held in candlelight. The box’s latch clicks open on its own when held by lovers.Description: A Hingashi book of love poetry and coded phrases meant for secret courting rituals. Some pages bear whispers of past lovers, voices of the enamored and the forsaken, lingering echoes of those who once longed for their affections to be known.10. Forbidden Verses of the Lost Nymian Courtship Rituals - SOLDAppearance: A seafoam-green tome, its water-damaged pages seeming to shimmer when touched. The binding smells faintly of salt and aged parchment, and, if left open, the ink appears to shift like ripples in water.Description: A reconstruction of ancient Nymian courtship rituals, believed lost with the fall of the Nymian people. While most of the book details gentle customs—like love letters cast upon the tide—one particular section warns of an unnamed ritual that, if performed incorrectly, may tether souls beyond the reach of the Lifestream itself.

Items

1. The Lover’s VeilAppearance: A halfmask of gossamer lace, delicate as a spider’s silk, embroidered with arcane sigils so fine they resemble veins of gold running through the fabric. The lace itself is an ethereal shade of blush ivory, shifting to rosegold under candlelight. At the temples, a pair of silken tassels hang, weighted by tiny quartz teardrops that shimmer with an inner glow. A faint trace of nightblooming jasmine lingers upon it, as if infused with whispered promises.Description: Worn by lovers seeking to conceal their true hearts while still tempting fate, this veil is said to bind the souls of those who meet eyes through its filigree lace. When donned, the wearer’s voice becomes as soft as a sigh, yet unmistakably clear to the one they desire most.2. The Eternal Bloom - SOLDAppearance: A silken rose, impossibly real to the touch, its petals shifting between deep crimson, soft blush, and ghostly white, as though caught in an eternal twilight of love and longing. The stem is wrapped in golden threads of fate, woven so tightly they appear to be part of the flower’s natural structure. Beneath the bloom, nestled among its emerald leaves, rests a tiny glass droplet, rumored to be the crystallized sorrow of a love held too tightly.Description: This enchanted bloom never wilts, yet it thrives on emotions—deepening in color when cradled by a devoted heart and paling when held by one who has forsaken love. It is said that if placed in the palm of a beloved and whispered to, the flower will remember those words forever.3. The Whispering PendantAppearance: A heartshaped locket of polished rosegold, its surface etched with filigree script that shifts like ink in water. The chain is woven from silver and copper strands, entwined like fated lovers. When held to the ear, the locket emits a faint hum, like the heartbeat of someone far away. Opening it in moonlight reveals a tiny mistfilled mirror, only clearing when the wearer is ready to hear the truth.Description: A pendant that carries the echoes of longing, murmuring the last words spoken by a lost love whenever it is opened. If given freely, it allows the wearer to hear the unspoken thoughts of their beloved, but should it be taken in deceit, the voices become a haunting wail of regret.4. The Silkbound VowAppearance: A pair of gloves woven from Hingashi silk, softer than the breath of a whispered promise. The left glove is a silvered moonlight hue, embroidered with delicate starlit vines trailing up each finger. The right is of midnight blue, stitched with the image of an unfurling lotus at the wrist. When held together, the embroidery aligns to form a perfectly entwined knot, a symbol of unity.Description: These gloves are given in pairs to lovers or fated companions, ensuring that when they hold hands, their bond is strengthened. The warmth of another’s touch ignites the silk, making the gloves glow faintly. If one betrays the other, the gloves will stiffen, refusing to move.5. The Moonlit MirrorAppearance: A hand mirror of antique silver, its surface rippling like moonlight upon water. The frame is shaped into the phases of the moon, subtly shifting throughout the night. Upon its back, an engraving of two lovers in an eternal embrace shimmers faintly, their features blurred by time. When turned at the right angle, the mirror casts an opaline glow, revealing glimpses of halfremembered visions—faces seen in dreams.Description: The Moonlit Mirror does not reflect one’s image but instead shows the true heart’s desire of the viewer. For some, it reveals their fated lover; for others, a fleeting moment of happiness lost to time. Those who fear the truth may find their own reflection warped, unable to gaze upon themselves.6. The Crimson Candle of DevotionAppearance: A slender candle of deep red wax, poured into the shape of a gently twisting ribbon, as if forever entwined with an unseen partner. When unlit, it is cool to the touch, but when held by a lover, the wick smolders faintly as if stirred by longing. The wax emits a fragrance of myrrh, wild roses, and aged parchment, evoking passion and nostalgia.Description: This candle only burns for those who truly love, its flame unwavering in the presence of honest devotion. If set alight by one with a fickle heart, the wick will sputter, the flame flickering uncertainly before extinguishing itself. Some believe that a love confessed beneath its glow can never be undone.7. The Lover’s Oath RingAppearance: A delicate band of rosegold, engraved with an everchanging script—words of oaths never spoken aloud. When held up to the light, the engraving shifts, revealing lines of poetry lost to time. Inside the band, a crescent moon is etched so finely it is almost imperceptible. If worn during a moment of true confession, the script glows with a warm radiance.Description: A ring crafted for lovers who dare to speak their hearts. It is said that the words one cannot say aloud will appear upon its surface when worn. Should a promise be broken, the letters will darken, fading into nothingness, as though the vow never existed.8. The Forbidden Quill of DevotionAppearance: A quill of dusky violet, its plumage iridescent, shifting between shades of twilight blue, deep wine, and shimmering gold. The tip is eternally stained in moonstone ink, which gleams like liquid stardust. Along the shaft, faint arcane sigils pulse with quiet energy, whispering forgotten love letters in the silence of the night.Description: This quill writes only the truth of the heart, revealing emotions one may wish to keep hidden. If used by a deceiver, the ink will vanish upon the page. If wielded by one who loves truly, the words will glow and never fade.9. The Lark’s Enchanted MelodyAppearance: A music box of polished rosewood, adorned with inlays of motherofpearl depicting a pair of birds in flight. Inside, the mechanism is crafted from crystalline gears, resembling the inner workings of a heart. When opened, a faint mist rises, carrying the scent of spring blossoms and distant laughter.Description: The Lark’s Melody plays only for those who hold love in their hearts. If given as a gift, it will forever echo the voice of the giver, singing lullabies in their absence. If placed in the hands of one whose love has faded, the melody distorts, playing only a sorrowful hush.10. The Binding Ribbons of Saint JiatianneAppearance: A pair of silk ribbons, one of rich crimson, the other of purest white, embroidered with arcane sigils of devotion and binding. The fabric pulses with warmth, as though infused with the heartbeat of an unseen force. Silver threads shimmer faintly, infused with the prayers of past lovers.Description: When tied around the wrists of lovers, these ribbons bind their fates together, glowing softly when love is true. If worn in deception, the fabric grows cold and brittle, unraveling at the first touch of a broken heart.

Antiquities

These are the most extraordinary items offered at tonight's Night Market. Rare and powerful, they cannot be obtained easily. Mastering them will demand strength, determination, and dedication. Suggested quests for role-play flavor are included.

Alchemia's Essence

Description: Alchemia's Essence is an exquisite alembic, forged from an alloy of rare metals and adorned with intricate alchemical symbols and runes that gleam with an otherworldly luminescence. Its design is both elegant and functional, with multiple chambers and conduits designed to channel and refine magical essences.Features:1. Magical Distillation: Alchemia's Essence possesses the ability to distill magical energies from various sources, including rare herbs, elemental essences, and mystical artifacts. It can extract, purify, and concentrate these energies into potent elixirs, essences, and potions imbued with specific magical properties.2. Transmutation: The alembic is capable of transmuting mundane substances into magical counterparts. Through a precise combination of alchemical processes and arcane incantations, it can transform base materials such as lead into precious metals like gold, or imbue ordinary liquids with mystical properties in small quantities.3. Aura Analysis: Alchemia's Essence has the ability to analyze the magical aura of substances and individuals. By capturing samples within its chambers and subjecting them to alchemical scrutiny, it can discern the nature, potency, and alignment of magical energies present, providing valuable insights for alchemical experimentation and spellcraft.4. Alchemy Automation: Through the infusion of enchanted mechanisms and arcane sigils, Alchemia's Essence can operate autonomously, following pre-set alchemical protocols and recipes. This automation feature allows for the continuous production of magical elixirs and potions, freeing the alchemist to focus on more complex experiments and rituals.5. Temporal Manipulation: In its most advanced configuration, Alchemia's Essence can manipulate the flow of time within its chambers. By harnessing temporal energies and channeling them through its conduits, it can accelerate or decelerate the aging process of substances, allowing for rapid maturation of potions or the preservation of delicate ingredients.6. Ethereal Conduit: As a conduit for magical energies, Alchemia's Essence serves as a focal point for rituals and spellcasting. It can amplify the effects of incantations and enchantments performed in its vicinity, drawing upon the latent energies stored within its chambers to empower magical workings and rites.Origin: Legend has it that Alchemia's Essence was crafted by a master alchemist of Allagan times, who sought to unlock the secrets of the cosmos through the synthesis of magic and science. Through years of tireless experimentation and mystical insight, the alchemist succeeded in creating this wondrous artifact, which had been thought lost to the ages...Limitations: Despite its remarkable powers, Alchemia's Essence is not without limitations. Its abilities are contingent upon the skill and knowledge of the alchemist wielding it, and misuse or mishandling of its powers can have dire consequences. Moreover, the creation of certain elixirs and potions may require rare and exotic ingredients, making them challenging to procure.Quest: Those seeking Alchemia's Essence must embark on a quest of alchemical discovery, delving into ancient texts, consulting with wise sages, and overcoming trials of intellect and intuition. Only those deemed worthy by the alchemical spirits and attuned to the subtle rhythms of magical alchemy will be granted access to its full transformative powers.

The Tear of the Hollow Moon

Description:A luminescent teardrop-shaped gem, cool to the touch and shimmering with the soft silver glow of moonlight. When held, its depths reveal fleeting images of lovers separated by fate—ghostly figures reaching for one another, their hands never quite meeting. The Tear pulses gently when it senses yearning, as though resonating with the unspoken emotions of its bearer.Features & Powers:- Echoes of the Heart: The Tear allows its bearer to hear the whispers of a lost love—words left unsaid, promises unfulfilled, or regrets buried in time.- Guiding Light: If carried with true intent, the Tear glows brighter in the presence of one's fated love, leading them together across time, distance, or even lifetimes.- The Last Embrace: In the hands of the brokenhearted, the Tear grants a fleeting vision of their beloved, offering a final moment to say what was never said, before fading into silver mist.- Bound by Love: If exchanged between lovers on Valentione’s Day, the Tear splits into two, each half glowing softly when the other is near—an eternal reminder that their souls are linked.Origin & History:The Tear is said to have formed from the sorrow of Menphina, the Lover, when she wept for two mortals whose love was torn asunder by war. Moved by their devotion, she captured a single tear in her hands and cast it into the heavens, where it fell to Eorzea as a crystal imbued with love’s undying promise. Those who find it are often souls searching for reunion, redemption, or the courage to love again.Limitations & Dangers:- Cannot Rewrite Fate: The Tear only reveals love’s path—it cannot force two hearts together if they are truly meant to part.- A Lover’s Lament: If used selfishly, the Tear darkens and cracks, burdened by the weight of falsehoods or manipulations.- The Hollow Curse: Those who hoard the Tear, refusing to let love go or move forward, may find their own heart growing cold and hollow, unable to love again.Suggested Quest: "The Moon’s Lament"To obtain the Tear of the Hollow Moon, one must complete the Trial of the Moonlit Promise at the lost shrine of Elpis Noctis. The seeker must navigate a mist-laden labyrinth of illusions, face memories of love lost or unspoken, and confess a truth of the heart before the Tear. Finally, they must offer a cherished token of love—something willingly sacrificed—to prove their understanding of love’s joy and sorrow. If their heart is true, the Tear will glow in acceptance. If they waver or deceive, the artifact remains dormant, and they must leave, burdened with the weight of their unspoken truths.