I do like the old people thing, although I have to note that there aren't many women there, are there? I don't think they've even met the standard 3 girls quota! As Del says, an older woman would be nice as I don't think there's been many of those in the FF games. I can only think of Edea and she doesn't really count as a temporary character. Someone like Wynne from Dragon Age Origins would be cool.

As an aside, beards. I approve.