I don't have any idea whether the game will get to E8.  XD  It would actually only have to get to E6, and then you can use certain cheaty charms to pick up E8 charms without meeting the prerequisites.<br/><br/>As for figuring out your soulsteel equipment, just PM empyrean for permission.  As long as your character doesn't set off his crazy buttons, you'll likely get your free gear.