"This exotic construct...pray tell, does it not invite your superstition?"
Drifters often come from sketchy histories, but few are more suspicious than those who simply claim to not remember their own. Ethius is one of these shady sorts, driven primarily by an almost obsessive interest in lost technologies in remote areas... or even those who possess them. He claims to be unsure as to what end this entails, exactly, but nonetheless conducts himself with a degree of level-headed professionalism and a sense of distance from those he would otherwise consider allies. In a tough spot he wields an archaic quarterstaff for self-defense, but his true proficiency lies in Symbology. Wielding manifestations of heat, electricity, and dust through this sorcery, their destructive potential against technological constructs appears to run counter to his interests. That the many patterns tattooed upon his body do not match those of typical Symbology practitioners upon Filgaia invites yet more questions as to who - or what - he really is.
Technology Hunter - Even if he claims not to understand the hows or whys, advanced technology in all its forms rarely escapes his notice. It is not uncommon to find him shadowing someone holding any interesting technology, but there appears no rhyme or reason for why - or for how long - he might pursue someone.
Symbology - Identifiable through his tattoos, although they do not match up with the styles employed by others of the same school of sorcery upon Filgaia. He appears to have sway over the elements of fire, earth, and lightning in specialized forms. Contrary to his interests, they seem very capable of destroying technological constructs...
Melee Combat - Ethius is competent in the use of polearms as a means of self-defense, allowing him to hold his own in hand-to-hand. Quarterstaves are his favored type.
Spectral Lens - A tool used in exploring dungeons, in the form of a monocle. With a shock from an electrical spell, Ethius can observe energy lines (or the lack thereof) between objects and spaces, allowing him extra insight in situations where the way forward may not be clear.
Powder Grenade - A tool used in exploring dungeons, in the form of small satchels. With help from an earth spell, fills an area with dust and smoke to help obscure the movement of allies when beset by hostile enemies.
Hot Air Sack - A tool used in exploring dungeons, in the form of a larger sack with a harness attached. With help from a fire spell, fills the sack with enough hot air to allow Ethius a lift over gaps and dangerous terrain.
A Metallic Stone? - Whatever it is, whatever it does, he seems unwilling to say anything about it... or even be willing to share so much as a peek at it.
Being A Horrendous JRPG Cliché - Has he no shame about his lack of narrative envelope pushing, going down the same tired storytelling tracks of our real world 1990s era video games? Sadly, he does not.
For those presently on the man's mind, in whatever capacity. (Last updated: June 12, 2017)
Ambrosius (06/17): "A mutual awareness of being diametrically opposed concerning that crystal ensures there will be no discreet resolution."
Arleph Ardan (06/17): "His scrutiny appears to stand from an elevated position of knowledge. I need not answer the inquiry."
Catenna (06/17): "I would allow the creed to go undisturbed and unchallenged."
Cyre H. Lorentz (06/17): "The noise has become recognizable in a short timeframe."
Fei Fong Wong (06/17): "I am witness to a deception. I do not comprehend the nature of it, beyond its existence."
Elhaym van Houten (06/17): "There is a troubling likeness to the scenario that has led to this point."
Gwen Whitlock (06/17): "Subtlety is impossible. An opening may yet present itself for inquiry."
Jacqueline Barber (06/17): "The circumstances are not to my preference, but it is no longer possible to disengage. I have no choice. It has gone far beyond mere curiosity. It has become a responsibility."
Kourin (06/17): "Her adjustment appears tumultuous, without anchor in which to observe. I cannot be this."
Matilda Whitehead (06/17): "I can scarce afford to be treated as a constant."
Neriah Parringer (06/17): "There is a matter of undefined importance, but worthy of alarm. The character of which, at present, eludes me."
Noeline "Carver" (06/17): "The Crimson Nobles must as of yet have an undefined stake and complicated relationship between the humans and the Metal Demons."
Riesenlied (06/17): "This hesitation must be deciphered. I cannot allow this to go without answer. The answer must be decisive and unwavering."
Rudy Roughnight (06/17): "I cannot yet parse the existence of an atmosphere of dread that surrounds the person, and yet the person themselves exudes a warmth. Which one is the answer I act on?"
Sephilia Lampbright (06/17): "The surviving innocence is, for the present circumstances, acceptable for its inconvenience."
Seraph Ragnell (06/17): "An unseen presence appears to be maintaining irregular pursuit. I believe they are a singular entity, as the cues of their presence remains consistent."
Sorey (06/17): "I have no choice but to accept their word, at present, no matter the disbelief of my observations."
Tesni Inoue (06/17): "Their accumulations appear incongruous with their hands and eyes."
Zed (06/17): "His mastery of discretion and hidden movement is unsettling. He conceals himself so completely as to be invisible in almost any situation..."
Legacy
For those who have lapsed in contact, but were otherwise notable.
Ainetta Rockwell (03/17): "Hers will be charmed, left to isolation."
Layla (03/17): "The working relationship appears to prove seamless."
Nightburn Acklund (03/17): "I may yet weigh against the higher risk, if circumstances are favorable."