Ser Celestine de Valois

"No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear"

Ser Celestine Marie-Madeleine de Valois, née Montaire, is a respected Highborn Temple Knight of Ishgard, whose composed exterior belies a profound inner turmoil. Beneath her poised demeanour and elegance lies a woman silently grappling with overwhelming sorrow stemming from her losses during the Dragonsong War.Once a beacon of warmth and optimism, Celestine now privately contends with persistent melancholy, resisting the seductive allure of despair. Her enduring devotion to the Fury has become a guiding force, offering solace and steadying her resolve to persevere, despite the heavy burden upon her heart.Stepping cautiously back into the world after prolonged seclusion, she frequently accompanies Ishgardian dignitaries beyond city walls, confronting her grief in the hopes of reclaiming a sense of purpose. Though scars of the past remain raw, she continues to search for something, perhaps someone, to offer the strength to carry on, and finally restore the peace she so desperately seeks.

  • ㅤNameㅤㅤCelestine Marie-Madeleine de Valois

  • ㅤTitlesㅤㅤDame / Lady / Ser

  • ㅤAgeㅤㅤ51

  • ㅤRaceㅤㅤElezen

  • ㅤNationalityㅤㅤHighborn Ishgardian

  • ㅤMarital StatusㅤㅤWidow

  • ㅤOccupationㅤㅤTemple Knight

  • ㅤPatron DeityㅤㅤHalone, The Fury

Personality

Once a woman whose warmth and gentle smile illuminated the hearts of those around her, Celestine now remains but a shadow of her former self with weariness etched upon her features, and a quiet struggle ever-present behind her eyes. Yet, these sombre truths remain hidden beneath a veil of serenity and benevolent smiles, a dignified façade that masks the quiet ache within her heart.

Following the profound losses she endured during the Dragonsong War, maintaining hope or even a simple smile became increasingly difficult. Celestine’s very outlook on life was altered dramatically, burdened by a melancholy so deep it left her feeling isolated and adrift.

Each dawn, once filled with promise, now only ushered in another day of solitude, loneliness creeping into the recesses of her mind. Yet, despite it all, she holds fast to a slender thread of hope, longing quietly for someone or something to restore her faith in life. Each day is spent upon the precipice, contemplating the purpose and meaning of her existence. Beneath this solemn demeanour lies the brilliance of an accomplished strategist and gifted swordswoman. Joining the esteemed ranks of the Temple Knights from an early age, Celestine dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her homeland, quickly earning distinction and admiration. Her exceptional status and prowess brought honour and prestige both to her noble House and to Ishgard itself. Yet she never succumbed to arrogance nor indulged in pride, choosing instead to remain humble and pious.

To her companions and friends, Celestine exhibits a certain maternal warmth, offering steadfast and compassionate support. Above all, she remains a paragon of gentility and grace, her refined etiquette and poised demeanour a testament to her noble heritage. Celestine is a proud daughter of Ishgard, embracing the duality of her identity - both a noblewoman of exemplary standing and a devoted Knight in unwavering service to her nation.

Appearance

Despite her long years of devoted service as a Temple Knight, and the inevitable marks they have left upon her, Celestine retains an appearance of delicate elegance and refined beauty, perfectly befitting her status as a Highborn lady.

Standing exceptionally tall, even among fellow Elezen, Celestine carries herself with distinguished poise. Her hair, pale blond streaked subtly with strands of white, often mistaken for premature ageing but truly a consequence of prolonged stress, is meticulously arranged in an elegant bun or, on occasion, a gracefully swept-back ponytail due to its considerable length.

Her eyes, a luminous deep blue inherited from House Angelique, frequently bear signs of exhaustion. Yet, despite her evident fatigue, Celestine’s gaze remains captivating, and her delicate femininity commands respectful admiration. A distinguishing feature unique to her visage is a small beauty mark situated below her lips on the right side.

Owing to her profession, Celestine typically favours practical and comfortable attire, predominantly comprising the formal uniform of the Temple Knights with her trusted longsword ever present at her side. Beyond civilisation’s safety, she insists upon donning armour without exception, fully aware of the perils inherent to travelling. Nevertheless, Celestine takes great pride in her femininity, gladly embracing the chance to adorn herself in exquisite gowns and tasteful jewellery whenever occasion permits.

Knighthood

Born into the venerable House Montaire, a lineage renowned throughout Ishgard for producing exemplary military leaders and valiant warriors, Celestine was destined to serve within the ranks of the Temple Knights. No other path was contemplated for her, the woman's future had been meticulously determined from the very moment she took her first breath.

From a young age, Celestine received rigorous instruction in hand-to-hand combat and fencing, honing her skills to impeccable standards. Her comprehensive education further encompassed military strategy, arithmetic, geography, history, music, dance, and the skilled handling of chocobos. Equally important were lessons in etiquette, courtly decorum, and refined graces, carefully shaping her into a poised and accomplished noblewoman whom House Montaire could proudly introduce into the highest circles of Ishgardian society.

At nine summers old, Celestine entered service within the Order as a squire, apprenticed under the seasoned guidance of Ser Roland. Her responsibilities ranged from meticulously caring for the Knight’s chocobo, weapons, and armour, to serving as his loyal attendant and diligent student.

Through unwavering determination and dedication, her talents blossomed; and finally, at the age of twenty-two, Celestine received the honour of Knighthood, having distinguished herself magnificently through martial prowess and tactical brilliance at the Grand Tournament.

Celestine’s life has ever since revolved entirely around her unwavering devotion to Ishgard and its people - a dedication that endures to this day. Foreign lands and their political intrigues have never held appeal for her, particularly given her upbringing and the lifelong preparation she underwent for service in the Dragonsong War. From childhood, Celestine fully embraced and accepted her duty, prepared and willing to offer her life in service to the Holy See.

Combat

Trained rigorously from childhood for a life of Knighthood, Celestine’s expertise in swordsmanship is both impressive and widely acknowledged. Her preferred approach involves the traditional pairing of sword and shield; however, she is equally formidable wielding only a longsword.

Though trained to handle a spear or lance should necessity demand, she generally avoids these weapons, mindful that they require strength beyond her natural capability. Instead, Celestine’s true mastery is found in the disciplined martial style of a Knight - whether engaging foes in fierce close-quarter clashes behind the protection of her shield, or executing decisive, sweeping cuts with the elegance of the longsword. Recognising the limitations posed by her slender frame, she compensates through exceptional agility and precision, demonstrating remarkable skill as an adept fencer. Her accuracy is capable of effortlessly penetrating chainmail or exploiting vulnerabilities in an opponent’s armour. Striking with accuracy at small, exposed areas such as the face or joints, Celestine frequently employs half-swording techniques, gripping the blade nearer its point to enhance thrusting precision. Additionally, when unencumbered by her shield, she incorporates grappling manoeuvres, employing tactical trips and throws to swiftly disable her adversaries.

Mounted combat is well within her skillset as well. Having trained extensively in chocobo riding since youth, she frequently participated in jousts and tournaments, skills which later proved invaluable during the fierce Dragonsong War. She holds in high regard the importance of a disciplined, well-trained chocobo, recognising the immense tactical advantage it grants upon the battlefield.

House de Valois

"Virtue is the only nobility"

Whilst no longer bound by the ties of matrimony, Celestine refuses to relinquish her acquired House and title, still carrying proudly 'De Valois' despite the untimely death of her late husband.A cadet House to House Durendaire, known to have produced many members who served Ishgard primarily as Temple Knights as well as members of the Inquisition, favouring male offspring due to this very reason, with women being married off to Houses with similar militaristic pursuits. it never was a House to push for political or mercantile power, and despite its evident martial focus, it remains a House of good repute with respectable members. However, following the end of the Dragonsong War, the House suffered greatly and is struggling to recover following the aftermath despite Celestine's best efforts.

House Montaire

"Praise be to Halone"

Celestine's maiden House, originating from the old yet prestigious and well-connected House Angelique, which by some may be seen as rather infamous.Following the ideals and core values of House Angelique, it is a House of fervent patriots, dedicated to the nation, church and military. Its views still are heavily centered around the late Theocracy and view the newly established government under a rather scrutinizing light.While forever a daughter of Angelique at heart, Celestine had to cast away her House name in light of her politically-advantageous union to House de Valois - a union which brought profit to both Houses in many aspects as both were fervently against the changes set in Ishgard and would seek to revert the nation's state.

House Members

PATRIARCH
Lord Eric De Valois (deceased)

MATRIARCH
Dame Celestine de Valois

HOUSE KNIGHT
Ser Levoix Puissant

HOUSE KNIGHT
Ser Perceval de Galois

CHIEF OF STAFF | HEAD BUTLER
Jean-Luc Allard

RP Hooks

Common

  • ㅤTemple Knight of Ishgardㅤ - Her refined bearing and well-worn blade mark her as a veteran Temple Knight. With over two decades of service to the Holy See, Ser Celestine is regarded as a paragon of knightly virtue - respected both for her battlefield prowess and her sense of duty

  • ㅤVeteran of the Dragonsong Warㅤ - Celestine fought with distinction throughout the Dragonsong War, her name known among those who endured its harshest campaigns. Though she bears the scars of great personal loss, none could ever claim she faltered in her service

  • ㅤHighbornㅤ - She carries herself with all the grace expected of an Ishgardian noblewoman. Her manner of speech and effortless elegance reflect a life steeped in etiquette and tradition. Whether in the presence of commonfolk or high peers, she represents the dignity of her station without ostentation

  • ㅤLady of House de Valoisㅤ - Following the death of her late husband, Celestine assumed the mantle of Head of House de Valois - a respected cadet branch of House Durendaire. Though diminished by wartime losses, the House remains honourable and devout, known for producing stalwart knights. Under her guidance, it seeks to reclaim its place within Ishgardian society

  • ㅤGuarded by Loyal Knightsㅤ - Rarely does Celestine travel unaccompanied. Often at her side are Ser Levoix Puissant and Ser Perceval de Galois, both of whom have sworn their blades to her House

  • ㅤSquire under her Tutelageㅤ - Impressed by the girl’s skill and spirit, Celestine took Ophelia Baptiste under her wing. Their bond - part martial, part maternal - is evident to any who observe them. The young squire now walks closely in her mentor’s shadow, ever eager to learn and prove herself worthy of the Valois name

  • ㅤIn Need of Retainersㅤ - With House Valois rebuilding, it seeks honourable knights, attendants, and aides to bolster its ranks. Loyalty and good character are valued far more than lineage

Uncommon

  • ㅤLonesome Spiritㅤ - Even if her smile is polite, there is a certain sorrow that clings to Celestine. Those with a keen eye may catch glimpses of it in her gaze - a lingering emptiness born of long summers spent in solitude and sacrifice. She rarely speaks of her own burdens, but listens attentively to the stories of others, as if hoping their words might soften the ache within her own heart

  • ㅤUnyielding Ireㅤ - Beneath her genteel demeanour lies an unshaken hatred, born not of cruelty, but of history and grief. Celestine bears an ingrained distrust of dragons and all bearing their likeness, including the Au Ra. Though she makes every effort to remain civil, her gaze grows cold at their presence

  • ㅤStrained Relationship with Faithㅤ - Though pious and dutiful, her faith has been tested beyond most. The war's hypocrisy and the corruption revealed within the clergy, as well as her own doubts, have led her to a more conflicted relationship with the Fury. At times, she questions whether Her silence was ever just

  • ㅤSurvivor’s Guiltㅤ - She walks among the living, but carries the names of the dead. Celestine lost family and countless comrades during the Dragonsong War - all losses for which she holds herself accountable. Mentions of the fallen may stir a flicker of haunted guilt which she masks with a swift change of subject

Rare

  • ㅤShattered Lineageㅤ - While she bears the title of Head of House Valois, the lineage lies in fragile condition. The war claimed many of its scions, and whispers remain as to the true fates of several kinsmem. Celestine speaks little of her family and pressing her on the matter may be met with polite evasion

  • ㅤInheritanceㅤ - With no known heir nor surviving close kin, the future of the House hangs in delicate balance. Some speculate Celestine may adopt, others suggest marriage may secure the bloodline. But until such a course is confirmed, the fate of the House remains clouded by in uncertainty - its legacy resting entirely upon Celestine’s shoulders

  • ㅤBroken Vowsㅤ - Celestine was once married. The union ended in tragedy during the war. Those who delve deep enough may discover the tale of a young knight-widow who never removed her wedding ring, yet she does not speak of the man she lost

OOC

I am happily commited to my loving partner and entirely uninterested in OOC flirting or any other attempts at turning roleplay into something beyond the game. Please keep IC and OOC separate. I am here to enjoy storytelling and character writing - not to act as anyone’s therapist or emotional dumping ground. Respect boundaries, communicate like an adult, and we will get along perfectly well.

  • ㅤCharacter Inspirationsㅤ - Jeanne D'arc (Patron Saint), Oscar Francois de Jarjayes (Rose of Versailles), Valkyrie Lenneth (Valkyrie Profile), Kisara (Tales of Arise), Olivier Mira Armstrong (Fullmetal Alchemist), Artoria Pendragon (Fate Series)

  • ㅤThe Crystal Ruleㅤ - All of my RP preferences can be found contained within The Crystal Rule - which I follow very closely

  • ㅤLore Boundariesㅤ - I'm happy to bend lore a little for the sake of good storytelling. I am, however, probably not the right partner for secret Ascians, forgotten Convocation members, demi-gods, dragon royalty, reincarnated Ancients, personal confidants of every Scion, hidden heirs to Allag, or characters who have saved the star so many times that Hydaelyn should frankly be paying them a salary. And, if you're reading this wondering whether your character falls into any of these categories, the answer is, most likely, yes

  • ㅤRP Styleㅤ - I write in paragraph-style and enjoy RP with detail and thought. I don’t expect perfect prose, but I value effort. However, if replies are consistently short or lacking substance, I’ll likely drift away and wont' bother RPing with you again. I also strongly dislike AI-written RP - it’s usually obvious, and yes, I will notice. Likewise, I'm not a fan of purple prose or people trying to flex their vocabulary. Clear and immersive writing will always impress me more than generic or over-engineered prose

  • ㅤPlot-Driven Roleplayㅤ - I love creating intricate, long-term storylines filled with intrigue and darker themes. I'm a very proactive writer and genuinely enjoy crafting stories for others just as much as my own. All I ask in return is engagement and initiative. I thrive on collaborative storytelling, not one-sided plots where I'm expected to provide all the momentum while the other person simply follows along

  • ㅤNarrative & Consequencesㅤ - I'm drawn to realism within fantasy. Politics, inner conflict, tradition versus change, emotional growth and meaningful character development are what I enjoy most. I favour long-term stories where actions carry lasting IC consequences, helping the world feel alive. If something particularly major is on the horizon, I always appreciate a quick OOC check-in to keep everyone on the same page

  • ㅤNo Romance or ERPㅤ - Celestine will never be available for romance or ERP. Out of respect for my relationship, I do not engage in such roleplay. Everyone has their own ideas about loyalty and fidelity- I happen to take both seriously. My boundaries are not negotiable, and my blacklist is equally generous towards those who fail to respect them

  • ㅤIC ≠ OOCㅤ - Celestine is a fictional character - I am not her, and she is not me. Please respect that boundary