FFXIV Write: 08 – Tepid
adjective
http://www.dictionary.com
characterized by a lack of force or enthusiasm
“Valeria, why are we here?” Katja huffed as the hyur half-dragged her into the Weaver’s Guild. Even as her boots skid against the sandstone flooring, Redolent Rose looked their way, the massive roegadyn breaking into a beaming smile.
“Well, if it isn’t my favorite little cotton-picker!” The man said jovially as he strode across the room to them. He planted his hands on his hips, looking between the raven-haired young hyuran and the well-known-to-him crimson miqo’te. “I don’t have any work for you today, so what brings you to my doorstep?”
“She is.” The miqo’te replied with tepid enthusiasm, her ears tilted back against her auburn hair. “For Twelve only knows what!”
Valeria refused to relinquish Katja’s arm, figuring the miqo’te would bolt if she dared to release her. However, the half-blood looked up at the taller — much taller — roegadyn with a charming smile. “We need a dress made.” She said simply.
“We… what?” Katja’s ears tilted back even farther, her tail flicking to one side. “No, no, no, I’m not getting fitted for a dress! What kind of somnus have you been smoking, because you’re higher than the tip of the Crystal Tower if you think I’m going to stand around for bells being measured every which way!”
“Oh, come now, Kat.” Valeria chided, tugging again on the miqo’te’s arm. “When’s the last time you spoiled yourself with something nice? In fact, when’s the last time you even bothered expanding your wardrobe? I swear I see you in the same dusty old cloak and boots every time we meet!”
Katja scowled. “I happen to like everything I wear. They’re all comfortable and… and… well-worn, like old friends!” She knew her clothing had seen better days, but the lion’s share of her earnings went to some… personal projects that took priority over looking good. The miqo’te gnawed on her lower lip, once more glancing down at her outfit. It was a little grubby, sure, and several darns dotted it here and there.
“That’s the problem, you need new friends every once in a while!” Valeria countered, tugging the miqo’te forward. Redolent Rose motioned to one of his many tailors, gesturing toward the pair as the darker-haired one pulled the reddish-haired one forward. “I’m sure the Guild will do a wonderful job for you. You’re one of their favorite gatherers, as you’ve mentioned before!”
A grimace of self-consciousness flit across Katja’s face as she allowed Valeria to continue to pull her along. She was guided back to a dressing room and one of the tailors joined them. Resigning herself to her fate, Katja sighed and went behind the changing screen.
“All right,” she said, again with that lukewarm energy. “Let’s get this over with…”