My cruel barbs which trample all over Jacob's young adult soul
Basically, you claimed that you can't see why other don't think of Quistis the same way that you think (This fantasy "empress" of yours), when pointed why, you only get all apologetic about her failures. To put it simply, she gives off the appearance of this hot teacher, but it's basically just a facade. To be fair, since I invoked the writing rule, I have to admit, that Quistis having a prodigy background but retarded personality in the story is a of good character concept. But still, your fantasy empress doesn't exist anywhere in the story.
Fashion points which simply fly over Jacob's head
Really? Seems like you're avoiding my point and started talking out of your ass here. I didn't even comment on how she acts in combat, just the costume choice. What? She dropped the glass and wear something practical in combat? Sure, but remember everyone else often wear something impractical too. Which is my complain in the first place.
Also, why do you have to write "Japanese combat"? Is just "combat" not enough? Do the Japanese have their own style of combat that we gaijins know nothing about? Enlighten me here.