Elder

Elder is the de facto leader of the village of Mars, attaining his position by virtue of age and reputation. Elder presides over the village council of elders, responsible for the duties traditionally assigned to mayors. Additionally, Elder is responsible for a private collection of Heraldic materials, including the Book of Exorcism and The Book of Secrets.

While Elder is political and community leader, he is not Mars' leader of Heraldic Arts; the role of Heraldic leadership seems to be allocated among spellcasting masters.

Story
During the events of Star Ocean 2, Elder is first seen holding council over a ransom crisis. The children of Mars have been kidnapped by bandits, and the town is desperate for their return. Elder made the decision to hire the legendary mercenary, Dias Flac, to kill the miscreants and save the children.

Claude, Rena, and optionally Celine, arrive at Mars in the middle of talks between Elder and Dias. Elder is happy to allow the party to attempt to kill the bandits as well, but keeps his contract with Dias as well.