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>>4883824
As the Gaspard soldiers approach, you look towards Ashe. He points to your Torch and signals you to drop it by the tree you’re taking cover behind. He follows up with another hand gesture, a thumb across his throat. You recognize this one all too well, and the grim look on Ashe’s face signifies that you did not misinterpret him. He waves over to Petra to follow him, while you place the torch standing upright against your tree. Caspar and you then take cover behind some nearby underbrush.

“What could that light be?” You hear a different man than before say out loud.

“I don’t know but let’s find it and get out of here. This fog is giving me the creeps.” Says the woman you first heard.

The soldiers look young, and you confirm your suspicion that they’re with the Gaspard Army. The lead one, upon spotting your lone discarded torch, walks up to the item and picks it up.

“What the hell is this thing do-?”

His words are cut off as an arrow flies by and firmly lodges itself in the throat of his female companion, sending her reeling to the ground.

“What?!”

You emerge from your hiding spot. You aren’t sure when you brandished your spear, but it’s in your hands and you’re charging straight for the leader of the pack. He turns around from his friend to see you running towards him but it’s too late. Your spear firmly collides through the young soldier’s chest, and all he can do is let out an impotent, guttural gurgle. You extract your spear and let the body fall to the side, terrified look still etched upon his face.

>30xp gained! (95/100)

“We’re under attack!” You hear one of the soldiers in the back yell, an archer from the looks of it. As he pulls out his bow, he peers down to find a sword suddenly sprouting through his chest. Petra’s work no doubt.

Caspar is engaged with a sword wielder who managed to get a hold on his bearings. His friend was unfortunately not so lucky, head cleaved down the middle by Caspar’s axe. The enemy Myrmidon is able to dodge and parry Caspar’s swings, and even manages to nick him once with his blade. He dances around Caspar for a few seconds more before your spear finds its way through his torso. The man screams in agony, directly in your face, before his head is lopped off by Caspar’s axe.

>10xp gained. Level Up!

Blair d'Rusalka
Level 6 Fighter (5/100)
HP: 28 (80%) +1 = 29
STR: 11 (45%) +1 = 12
MAG: 9 (50%)
DEX: 5 (45%) + 1 = 6
SPD:11 (55%)
LCK: 8 (30%)
DEF: 8 (50%)
RES: 4 (25%)
CHARM: 9 (40%)

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>>4883826
The last Gaspard fighter left is facing Petra and breathing heavily, already cut up badly from her sword. He suddenly drops his Axe and gets on his knees, pleading for mercy.

“I yield! Please don’t kill me! I’ll tell you whatever you want!” The man cries. As you look at him closer, he doesn’t strike you as a part of Gaspard’s traditional army. His “uniform” if you could call it that, is ragged, and patched through with holes. He resembles something closer to a conscript or a militiaman than an actual trained soldier. Ashe walks up to the man.

“It’s okay, we won’t hurt you. Tell me, how many more soldiers ahead are there? Our group is seeking to parley with Lonato and end this before any more blood is shed.”

The fighter is trying desperately to catch his breath and looks lost in thought. For a second you wonder if he can even count before he finally speaks. “T-twelve. There are two more parties like us patrolling the forest. Both further up ahead. T-the rest are fighting t-the church. We were supposed to make sure no one came through here. This place is pretty secluded, and with the fog it would be hard for the enemy to find or maneuver through. I thought we’d be safe on guard here…b-but you knew…” The man’s voice trails off as he studies Ashe closer.

“Tell me, do you know what the cause of all this is?” Asks Ashe.

The man shakes his head. “I-I don’t know. Lonato told us that the Church of Seiros had been…corrupted. Taken over by the Infidel, Rhea. He riled up all the townspeople to attack the local clergy…oh Goddess what’s happening…I just want to go home…”

“Twelve more men ahead could become trouble.” Chimes in Petra.

>“Agreed, and we may still need to face off against Lonato and Gaspard’s actual soldiers.”

Ashe addresses the man, who is currently still on his knees, staring at the corpses of his deceased comrades. “You’re free to go. Get up and get on out of here.”

“Ashe you can’t be serious!” Interjects Caspar. “He might alert the others that we’re here!”

“I can’t just kill an unarmed villager that was dragged into this!” Retorts Ashe

“Ashe?” Asks the man, staring at Ashe with a renewed glance, before sputtering “M-milord, please! I won’t tell the others, I swear!”

“Blair, what thinking does your head do?” Asks Petra.

Your mind thinks back to the bandit girl you killed back at Zanado. How the hell do you keep finding yourself in these situations…

>A) Kill him. We can’t take the risk of him alerting the other patrols ahead.
>B) Release him, I agree with Ashe. He clearly can’t fight us.
>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.
>D) Write-in

>>4883829
>>D) Write-in

I dont trust someone this flighty not to tell of us but we could just knock him out or tie him up, no need for WAR CRIMES just yet.

>>4883829
>>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.

>>4883888
+1 to this. Tie him up and come back for him after the battle. He's a prisoner of war who legitimately surrendered. Killing him would be immoral.

>>4883829
>D) write in

Tie him up or knock him out like the other anon said

>>4883829
>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.
A chance to avoid bloodshed and not get bogged down by fighting? It's risky, but I'm willing to take it.

>>4883829
>>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.
Knocking people out safely is basically impossible. And tying him up while leaving him conscious and able to shout is basically the same as option C.

>>4884009
Just gag him.

>>4883829
>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.

This or knock him out and gag him

Considering our still rather limited Tactics rank I fear that option may backfire, anons.

>>4883829
>>A) Kill him. We can’t take the risk of him alerting the other patrols ahead.

>>4883829
>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.

Times running out, and either fighting 12 men or dodging them through this mist aren't ideal, especially since dodging them means we'll need to put thr touch out and thus waste more time picking our way through the fog. Plus we have no idea where the hell the magic fog man is - with out mainly physical party running into a mage would be bad news.

If it works we basically get a straight shot to Lonato's camp unimpeded. If it doesn't its not worse than picking option B

>>4883829
>>4883888
>D) Knock him out
I think knocking him out is best, and are you guys really choosing the rank D plan?
also nice to see this continue, let's make Blair the bestest genericus in all of Fodland

>>4883829
>>D) Write-in

Immobilize. Perhaps knock out.

>>4883829
>Tie him up, gag him.
We can probably do so with his fallen comrade's clothes or something, in case we don't have rope and rags.

>>4883829
>>4883829
>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.
Every other option here means we've got to avoid 12 men in the fog while trying to beat the main army to Lonato (who absolutely won't surrender peacefully if he has an entire army breathing down his neck). If this pays off it will pay off big time.

Plus everyone going on about tactics D - are you seriously saying you're gonna pass on every tactics choice until we reach, what, rank B/C? That's like two missions away. If C is enough to lead a battalion then D isn't complete garbage.

>>4884313

Its not only the rank, to me it also sounds like kind of a harebrained idea, which makes me think its another "use a skill youve barely developed" trap.

>>4883829
>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.
>D) Write-in: Offer to use a Vulnerary to heal the man's injuries, tell him we need his help to get past the patrols and speak with Lonato to end this with as little bloodshed as possible

He recognized Ashe as the (adopted) son of Lonato, calling him "Milord" after we mentioned his name. If we actually tell him the reason we need him to distract the patrols (so that Ashe can speak with Lonato and try to get him to stand down and reduce the amount of casualties), I feel he'll have less reason to object or betray us. We use a Vulnerary to heal him as a gesture of goodwill to boost this further.

I know we just murdered his squad in cold blood a second ago, and therefore our words might ring hollow, but if Ashe backs us up here with his clout of being Lonatos (adopted) son we might just get through to him.
Worst case scenario is he betrays us and we'll be forced to 4v13, best case scenario is we fast track it to Lonato unopposed. It's honestly a though choice, but I believe it would be best to at least take this opportunity to kill as few Gaspard soldiers as possible, for Ashe's sake.

>>4883829
>C) (Tactics Rank: D): Perhaps we can use him to lure the other patrols away. It’s risky, but we may be able to get through the forest without any more fighting.
Rank D implies that without it we wouldn't even get this choice, it would be a kill/spare choice like the Red Valley bandit.
>>4884526
Support this even though we're poor we gotta donate to the cause.

>>4883829
>>4884263

The budding tacticians win by 1 vote. Writing now.

>>4885278
Whoops forgot my name.

For clarification; Tactics Rank: D means the option is available to you because our Authority/Tactics is sitting at D. It's supposed to serve as an indicator that the reason you're even seeing the option is because you leveled that skill up.

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>>4883829
You stare down at the quivering man before you. Last time you were in this situation, you were forced to push your spear through a girl’s heart. Maybe this time, you can do things differently. You kneel in front of the man, take out one of your Vulnerary’s, un-pop the cork, and pour it over the wounds that Petra had left on him.

>Used 1x Vulnerary.

“Blair?! What are you doing?” stammers Caspar.

>“What is your name?” You ask.

“L-Loke.

>“Loke. You don’t want to see any more of your friends die, do you?” You turn your head to the girl with the arrow through her throat. Already a sizeable pool of blood has spread around her. “We don’t want to see that either. But we’ll need your help for that.” You grab the man’s hands and lift him to his feet.”

“W-what do you mean?” Loke asks, worry evident in his voice.

>“You said there are two more patrols near, right? Head west of here and shout that you’ve found the enemy and you require aid. If you did that, they’d come running over, no?”

“T-they should…but what happens when they-?”

>“Tell them you were ambushed and managed to escape. We came looking to finish you off but got lost in the fog and were split up, then you heard us heading south. If your friends are supposed to guard this forest, chances are they’ll pursue towards the south, away from where we are headed, no?”

The man looks as if he wishes to protest, attempting to stammer some rebuttal, but you cut him off.

>“If it doesn’t work, Loke, or you try and tell them otherwise, we’ll be forced to defend ourselves. And I think you can vouch that we’re more than capable of doing that, even when outnumbered. You can still make sure people don’t die today. The choice is yours.”

Loke looks even more pale than he was when he was still covered in wounds. Eventually though, he relents and nods his head. “I-I’ll do it.”

>“Thank you, Loke.”

Caspar stares at you, looking somewhat impressed. “Nice job…I just hope it works.”

“You go away with words!” Cheers Petra

“Thank you, Blair. I don’t know how I can ever repay you for all you’ve done.” Says Ashe.

>You gained a C-Support with Ashe!

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>>4885474
Loke takes his leave, running off to the west, stopping only to spare a glance at his fallen comrades. The rest of you wait around, cleaning your weapons and patching up, when you hear a voice from far away.”

“Help! I need help! Please! Come quick! It’s the enemy!”

“That was Loke, let’s go.” Says Ashe.

You and the group head towards the east, away from the direction Loke ran. You can hear the sounds of armor clanking and shouts from somewhat ahead. If your deduction is correct, it looks like the plan work, and both enemy patrols are heading to where Loke had ran off. You take care to move slower, trying not to rush into them. Eventually though, the sounds fade away, and all that is left are the sounds of birds, wind, and battle from far off.

“The exit should be just up ahead.” Whispers Ashe.

“Look! The fog is fading!” Says Petra.

Petra is right. You notice the fog that was previously blanketing the woods is vanishing at a remarkably fast rate. It looks as though the cause was indeed magic, and the culprit or culprits behind it had the misfortune of running into the Knights of Seiros.

“That’s fortunate, now we should have no issue finding where Lonato is amid the enemy’s forces.” Says Ashe.

You slow down as you reach the exit, and take cover at the forest’s edge, peering outward into the enemy encampment. Ahead of you, you see Gaspard soldiers running back and forth, in front of a raised platform. On said platform is an older looking man, with white hair and radiant looking silver armor. The way he barks orders as scouts come up to him make it clear that this must be Lonato.

“Our Mage Commander has been slain?! Hold your ground!” Lonato shouts. “We have the Goddess on our side, and knowledge of the terrain! We can stop them here!”

“Lonato…” You hear Ashe mutter next to you.

>“It sounds like the Gaspard army is getting pushed back. We have to move now.”

“Yes but…how?” Asks Caspar.

Good question. You’re able to make out six soldiers ahead who seem to be serving as Lonato’s personal guard. And unlike those conscripts you slew earlier, these seem to be full-fledged soldiers in a professional standing army.


>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.
>B) Remain in the forest for now and see what happens. It’s too dangerous.
>C) Everything you’ve seen and heard of this Lonato paints him as a madman. Tell Ashe we need to strike him down now while we have the element of surprise.
>D) Write-in

>>4885476
>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.

Maybe things will be different in this timeline.

>>4885476
>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.
We won't have a better chance than this.

Also Ashe you can repay us by giving a glowing review of us to Dimitri (and Ingrid)

>>4885476
>D) Leave the choice between A and C to Ashe to decide
Be it tongue or arrow, he's our best shot (hah) at ending this quickly. Let's leave it for him to decide, even if I'm sure what his choice is.

>>4885476
>>C) Everything you’ve seen and heard of this Lonato paints him as a madman. Tell Ashe we need to strike him down now while we have the element of surprise.

>>4885476
>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands

>>4885476
>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.

We came here to try to talk

>>4885476
>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.
Right, lets get it done. Hopefully Lonato realizes it's a doomed prospect, but then again he is mad with grief after all. If negotiations break down, we fight defensively until Cahterine can break the Gaspard lines.

>>4885476
>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.

I have my doubts but we pretty much gave our word.

>>4885476
>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.
Let's make sure negotiation goes smoothly.

>>4885476
>C) Everything you’ve seen and heard of this Lonato paints him as a madman. Tell Ashe we need to strike him down now while we have the element of surprise.

>>4885476
>Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.

>>4885476
>>A) Have Ashe approach forward and call out to Lonato. It’s what we came for after all, but if negotiations fail, we’ve got a fight on our hands.

This is extreme metaknowledge but if Ashe pulls this off, how do we make sure he stays far away from """""""Tomas""""""" and """"""Monica"""""? Lonato was pretty much a dubstepper plot right

>>4887771
Dubstepper plot to distract everyone from them trying to rob the tomb yeah.

If Lonato isn't going be excecuted anyway for lynching the priests the dubsteppers can teleport so we probably can't do much to avoid his death if they really want him gone.

The more extreme meta knowledge is are we going to try to interfere with Jeralt's death or not.

>>4887948
I don't see how we possibly could, short of tailing Monica all the time to see if she ever slips up, which would be hard to justify.

>>4887971
It's plain to everyone with eyes that Monica is sus even some of the NPCs mention it. No one says anything because she sticks to Edelgard like a burr and Edel and Hubert don't protest, I can see Blair thinking it's weird enough to do something.

We could also '''''happen'''' to stick very close to Jeralt after the fight so we can parry any assassins daggers and pray that the divine pulse is enough to stop us getting shanked maybe.

Man, I feel like when we're done with this mission Ashe will come a running straight to join the Black Eagles, we fucking left a hell of an impression on that boy.

>>4887771
In character, we have no reason to suspect Tomas of anything. Monica however just fucking shows up in the catacombs when Flayn is captured after being missing for a whole year, and no one fucking bats an eye. While we have in character reason to think something is up with her, we have no concrete evidence against her.

>>4888052
>Monica however just fucking shows up in the catacombs when Flayn is captured after being missing for a whole year, and no one fucking bats an eye
That's because several students had gone missing before, Flayn's kidnapping was just the straw that broke the camel's back and got the church to invest fully into the investigation.

>>4888052
Ashe's a good boy. Maybe we could.....

>>4888841
Hear him out as he tries to recruit Blair to the blue lions? I suppose we could do that~

Still holding out for some unlikely event to fly out of nowhere that leads to the recruitment of Lysithea

>>4888880
>Felix one day approaches Blair, trying to pass off a cake

>>4888880
You hold out for that, im still banking on Gatekeeper supports.

Invest in Keepercoin bros, to the fucking moon.

Strange. No update today…..orr yesterday…..orrr the day before…..yeah this quest died didn’t it. C’mon man if your gonna end it just say so.

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>>4890720
Nah it's coming today. Was supposed to be yesterday but my motherboard died and I had to get a new one.

>>4890828
>Rip QM's Motherboard

>>4890828
Well, QM's curse had to manifest in someway at some point. Surely this means it's out of the way and you'll be free from misfortune from now h-haha

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>>4890828

>>4890828
Thats an expensive way for the curse to manifest, but I suppose it beats the multiple car accidents I can remember and the one I had to drop because I caught Covid and then broke my leg in the same day

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>>4885476
The soldiers gathered ahead don’t exactly look like they’re ready to give you a warm welcome. You knew the risks when you accepted this mission though, and now’s not the time to back out.

>“We’re behind you Ashe. If negotiations go south, we’ll have your back.” You tell him.

Ashe nods. “I’m ready.” The four of you then move out of the forest, and towards the platform that Lonato is currently commanding from.

You aren’t noticed immediately at first. It’s clear that Lonato and his troops were not expecting to meet any resistance from the direction of the forest. But eventually, one of the soldiers spots you, and lets out a cry.

“It’s the enemy! Defend the Lord!”

“Wait! We don’t mean you any harm!” Ashe yells.

As Lonato’s guard begins mobilizing, the elderly knight turns his gaze away from the battlefield to glance towards your direction. Upon seeing Ashe, his mouth drops in surprise.

“Ashe? What are you doing here?! Did that wretch Rhea think to send my own boy to collect my head?” He motions towards his guards, waving them down. “Hold your attack!”

“Lonato, please listen! I’m not here to fight! I came to find out why this is happening?” Ashe says, moving closer to his former guardian.

As the enemy general adjusts his horse to face in Ashe’s direction, his soldiers by his side inch closer. It’s clear they don’t intend to let Ashe just waltz by.

“This is happening because of that false prophetess. For years I had to live with the knowledge that she ordered the unlawful execution of my only son. The one thing in this world I cherished! I struggled in utter anguish while that deceiver masqueraded as the Goddess’ envoy, enjoying all of Fodlan under her thumb. No longer! I am a Knight, and I’d rather die fighting for what I believe in than continue to standby while that harlot pretends to speak for the Goddess!”

Ashe, at a loss for words, stammers out. “But the townsfolk! The people of Gaspard! So many lives that you were supposed to protect, they’re all dead!”

Lonato shakes his head. “I forced no one into this boy. I simply told them the truth, and afterwards they were all willing to throw down their lives against that woman, even with the odds stacked against them. Don’t sully their honor, they are martyrs, one and all.”

From afar, you can hear the sounds of battle intensifying and drawing closer. You can’t make out who’s winning, but you’re quite certain Catherine and the Knights should be making quick work of the enemy.

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>>4890919
“Now then Ashe, if you are not here to fight, I ask that you stand down. I must destroy these evil-doers by any means necessary.”

The boy takes a step further forward, clearly lost in his emotions. Lonato’s knights also inch closer.

“Please surrender! Whatever your reason for doing this, we can still talk it out!”

“Enough!” Lonato screams. “Did you not hear me, Ashe? I am a knight, and knights stay true to their convictions. Did you not you head off to that den of sin known as Garreg Mach because you wished to become a knight?”

“Y-yes but-”

“Then consider this your first lesson!” The elderly Paladin brandishes his spear in Ashe’s direction. “You can run back through that forest all the way to your little school, or you can stand here and fight. Tell me Ashe, what would a knight do?”

There are a few tense seconds that pass. Despite the cool temperature in Gaspard, you’re absolutely drenched with sweat as you stare down the seven opponents in front of you. You think back to all the opponents you have faced since coming to the academy so far, and you realize this is the first time you’ve felt that your life is in genuine danger.

After what feels like an eternity, Ashe wordlessly walks back to your group, before unstrapping his bow, taking an arrow from the quiver, and taking a fighting stance.

“Hah.” Lonato lets out a soft chuckle. “Now that’s the Ashe I remember. Men! To Arms!”

>A) Stand your ground and engage the Armored Knight and Fighter heading your way.
>B) Back up Ashe against the Fighter and Soldier heading his way.
>C) Try and maneuver through their front line. If you can kill Lonato, the battle should end.
>D) This is bad, we’re outnumbered. We need to retreat.
>E) Write-in

>>4890922
>A) Stand your ground and engage the Armored Knight and Fighter heading your way.

>>4890922
>D) This is bad, we’re outnumbered. We need to retreat.

If we can make it to the treeline we will get rid of a lot of their advantages.

Lonato by himself probs outspeeds (except for maybe Petra) and outbulks us. Is Caspar the only one with enough defense to survive two hits from him?

>>4890922
>A) Stand your ground and engage the Armored Knight and Fighter heading your way.

Are we able to get to the treeline from here?

>>4890922
Hmm, the main fighting is getting closer. Even if his words regarding the will of the people ring true, perhaps finishing the main man could demoralize out foes enough to cause a route?
>C) Try and maneuver through their front line. If you can kill Lonato, the battle should end.

>>4890922
>>D) This is bad, we’re outnumbered. We need to retreat.
Yeah if we stand our ground we're gonna get overwhelmed real fast, time to beeline to the treeline behind us for some extra dodge and to seperate the group.

Going against an armored knight is a bad idea considering we don't have access to magic, Lonato will turn Blair into a bloody smear in 5 seconds flat if we gun for him personally and Ashe being ranged means we need to get him into a good position for him to do chip damage.

Caspar and Blair's main roles are to soften up the mooks enough for Ashe to snipe them down or for Petra's personal to trigger.

>>4890922
>>D) This is bad, we’re outnumbered. We need to retreat.

>>4890922
>B) Back up Ashe against the Fighter and Soldier heading his way.
Let's stand our ground until the others can give us a hand. Killing Lonato likely won't make the other troops stop fighting. Let's rout the enemy!

>>4890922
As much as I'd think that retreating is the best option here, Ashe is sure as shit not going to back down after getting fucking rustled by Lonato like that. Yes, we came here to see if we could end this diplomatically, but Ashe has already shown that he has the resolve to kill Lonato. Any attempts to retreat here would be refused outright by Ashe, so we have to either fight or knock him out and carry him away, and I ain't so keen on throwing that Support we gained with him away. He's also technically the Commanding Officer, so we kinda do need to stand and fight for now. Maybe he has a plan?

>A) Stand your ground and engage the Armored Knight and Fighter heading your way.
One round of combat. I'm giving it that, and if we start showing signs of getting our asses beat we're pulling out whether Ashe likes it or not.

This is the gameplan. Us and Caspar together should have the raw bulk to handle the Armored Knight + the Fighter between us. Armored Knight is tanky as hell but slow as fuck and if we can take out his supporting Fighter, he's open for combo attacks from the both of us. We sic Caspar on him first, as he has the raw damage output to get through the armor, while we dance with the Fighter. Hopefully Caspar won't do anything too stupid while we're busy. Meanwhile Petra and Ashe handles the Eastern Flank with it's lightly armored units, they shouldn't have too much difficulty with that.

The problem is Lonato. We have to work under the assumption he One-Shots at least Ashe and Petra, and if he actually engages right away we're fucked six ways from Sunday. The plan then becomes scrambled regroup and pulling out towards Catherine in force, though it might be too late by then.

If he doesn't engage, and we manage to clean up the first row then maybe we can take him? We have to be extremely careful with any attempts though, he's a tough nut to crack for a small group of Students.

>>4890922
>B) Back up Ashe against the Fighter and Soldier heading his way.
Hoo boy, time for some slaughter, I think we should stay close together and hold on in hopes of the rest coming to bring us some backup.

>>4890922
>>B) Back up Ashe against the Fighter and Soldier heading his way.

>>4890922
>>C) Try and maneuver through their front line. If you can kill Lonato, the battle should end.

I wholeheartedly implore anyone who's voted for or thinking about voting for Option C reconsider their choice immediately. We can not fucking Solo Lonato under any circumstance, much less when he actually has backup and we'll be completely surrounded by his Generals. It is 100% going to lead to a BAD END where our whole Squad gets wiped. Literally any other Option is preferable to Option C.

>>D) This is bad, we’re outnumbered. We need to retreat.

No cowardice to moving to the treeline. We'd be foolish not to take the tactical advantage now that negotiations have broken down.

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Current Tally:

A: xxx
B: xxx
C: xx
D: xxxx

Damn this is tight. I'll leave voting up till 13:00. If anyone has any questions let me know.

Gives me more time to beat Shekinah

>>4890922
>D) This is bad, we’re outnumbered. We need to retreat.

D wins. Writing now.

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>>4892173
Ashe is raring to go at his adopted father, however it does not take a master tactician to realize that the odds are stacked against your group heavily.

>“Ashe! We need to fall back! There’s too many of them!”

“But he’s right in front of us! I need to see this through, even if it costs me my life!” He retorts back.

Any room for debate or discussion is over as Lonato’s soldiers rush you. Leading the pack is a Fighter that slams his axe in a downward strike that you are only able to narrowly block with your spear, though your arms scream in protest (-5 HP, 24/29). You jump back from your opponent and thrust your spear outward. You catch the man in his cheek and deliver a grievous wound, though before you can follow up, with a kill stroke, he pulls away, and you only manage to clip his left shoulder.

>10xp gained (15/100)

As the enemy fighter reels back, clutching his wounds, an Armored Knight is slowly lumbering towards you, shield and spear ready to skewer you. Fortunately, this man isn’t as mobile in his armor, and you’re able to maneuver towards supporting Ashe. Caspar and Petra are busy fending off a Fighter and Soldier that were gunning for the boy, but now another Soldier and Myrmidon are closing in on him.

Ashe is able to fire off an arrow that slows the Soldier down, but the Myrmidon is quick, and he slashes him across his chest, throwing him to the ground. Before he can deliver a finishing blow, the Myrmidon finds himself gored upon your spear. The Myrmidon screams in agony as the spear punches through his chest. Using the last of his strength, he frantically tries to swipe his sword down upon your arm. The blade connects on your right arm and gives you a nasty cut, (-4 HP, 20/29) but it’s clear this man is on his last legs. You grit your teeth and twist your spear, before pulling out and leaving him on the ground in a heap to die.

>30xp gained! (45/100)

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>>4892541
>You extend your hand out to Ashe. “We need to head back towards the tree-line! The Professor and everyone else will be here soon to help.”

Ashe moves to take your hand, but suddenly cries out. “Blair! Look out!”

You quickly turn around and put your spear up expecting to find an enemy, only to spot a Javelin sailing towards you, quicker than you can react. Your armor fortunately stops the spear form impaling you, but you take the blow directly on the chest. The wind is knocked out of you, and you’re sent flying back to land hard on the ground with a thud. (-9 HP, 11/29)

“Ashe! Did that expensive school of yours only teach you how to cower behind a woman!?’ You hear Lonato yell.

As you struggle to get to your knees, you see the Paladin getting ready to move on Ashe. At his side is a soldier, limping along after being shot earlier by Ashe. To your left, Petra and Caspar have finished off their respective enemies. They are now engaged with the lumbering Armor Knight from before, who is keeping both of them at bay. Your comrades look like they’ve taken some damage, but they aren’t in danger of falling anytime soon. Beyond them, you can see the Fighter who you struck earlier, attempting to shakily pour his Vulnerary out on his wounds.

And from even further ahead, you can hear the signs of the main battle drawing closer and closer to your location. Ashe seems to have dropped any pretense of commanding your unit further this fight, and it seems it’s up to you to decide what your next maneuver is.

>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>B) Help Caspar and Petra take out that Armor Knight.
>C) Break around and try and kill the fighter before he is finished healing.
>D) Try and take command and get everyone to pull back
>E) Write-in
ALSO

Use a Vulnerary to restore 10 HP?
>Yes
>No

>>4892542
>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>Yes

That was a rough damn turn!

>>4892542
We're lucky Blair is a tough cookie, this could have gone way worse.
That said, we're still facing some serious odds.
>yes to vulnerary
Now it's not the time to cheap out.

>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.

I would have suggested a defensive approach before, retreating slowly and picking off the attackers, but now that's no longer an option: the numbers have evened out, but Lonato is already upon us.

>>4892542
>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>Yes

>>4892542
>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>Yes
We should hide in the woods next to that soldier before attacking. Let's hope Lonato won't be too rough on us! I'd have liked to take care of the fighter, but that'd leave both us and Ashe open and vulnerable to Lonato and the soldier.

>>4892542
>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>Yes
He's also wounded. With both Caspar and Petra on the armor knight hopefully they can whittle his HP down enough for Petra's personal to trigger.

But we gotta drag Ashe to the treeline both for extra dodge and to make sure that fighter doesn't get an ideas.

>>4892542
>>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>Yes

>>4892542
>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>Yes

We must ensure the future of our bloodline

>>4892542
Shit. Well, we're stuck in now.
>A
>Yes

>>4892542
Welp, as I said Ashe wasn't gonna back down. Chosing to stand and fight would've probabaly resulted in a better outcome for us. But hey, we're not dead at least.

>A) Ashe is outnumbered and against a superior foe, back him up.
>Use a Vulnerary to restore 10 HP? Y

In for a penny, in for a pound as they say. Petra and Caspar are doing good on their own, we have to stop Ashe from dying while they finish off their opponents, and then maybe ganging up on Lonato would be enough to finish him. Catherine is breaking the Gaspard army next turn, so we can expect reinforcements after that. We just have to hold on.

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>>4892542
There’s not much more you can do to help Caspar and Petra against their foe, and Ashe needs your help badly. You uncork one of the vulneraries attached to your belt and pour it over the cut you received on your arm. It stings like hell, and you don’t have the time to administer healing to the blow you took to your chest, but it’s better than nothing. (+10 HP, 22/29)

Lonato
Class: Level 8 Paladin
HP: 35, STR: 15, MAG: 8, DEX: 13, SPD: 7, LCK: 10, DEF: 14, RES: 10, CHRM: 12
Equipped: Iron Lance (+6 Damage), Javelin (+2 Damage, 1-2 Range)
SKILL: Canto

“Here I come, Ashe! Brace yourself!” Lonato yells, galloping straight towards Ashe. He rolls out of the way of Lonato’s spear at the last second and manages to avoid finding himself on the end of it.

The remaining Soldier sets his sights on you, running full speed with his spear outstretched in your direction. He is still hampered by the arrow he took from Ashe earlier, and it seems almost a trivial thing to sidestep his attack. As the man’s lunge carries him forward, you find yourself behind the soldier. You unleash a brutal kick to the back of the leg that Ashe had hit, sending the man painfully on his knees. Without a second thought, you push your spear through the back of his neck, killing him.

>30xp gained! (75/100)

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>>4893411
Extracting your spear, you quickly look around for signs of Lonato, only to find another javelin sailing towards you. This time though, you’re able to avoid it hitting you. As he readies another javelin, an arrow finds its way into his right arm, followed by another one bouncing off against his chest plate. They slow him down but are clearly ineffective against his armor. (-4 HP, 31/35)

Lonato launches the javelin that was intended for you towards Ashe instead, and the boy takes the blow head on, knocking him back. Turning his attention back towards you, the Paladin pulls out his lance and gallops your way.

The mountain of horse, man, and armor in front of you arrives much quicker than you expected. In a desperate attempt, you thrust your spear out attempting to unseat him. Putting all of your strength and rage behind it, you strike true and hit him square in the breastplate. (-7HP, 24/35 HP). You manage to throw off his blow, but the horse still collides with you. The Goddess smiles on you and you fortunately are not trampled to death, but your insides feel like they’ve been liquefied from the amount of weight behind the impact. (-13 HP, 9/29 HP)

As you shakily get to your feet, Lonato is already turning his horse and getting ready to attempt skewering you again. As he’s galloping towards you, lance outstretched, an arrow strikes his horse square in the eye! The beast topples and you manage to narrowly avoid another collision. Lonato curses as he is caught up in the beast’s thrashing, hitting the ground hard. (-9 HP, 15/35 HP)

The Paladin is trapped underneath his horse and is struggling to free himself. As you gather your surroundings, you see Caspar and Petra still fighting against the Armor Knight, who now sports a rather large dent in his chest. The Fighter from earlier has finished healing and is now running to assist him.

>A) Finish off Lonato now while he’s trapped under there.
>B) Leave him to Ashe, go and aid Caspar and Petra.
>C) Now’s our chance to run while Lonato’s recovering. Yell for retreat.
>D) Write-in

>>4893417
>D) Run up and bring your spear to Lonato's throat while he's down and demand a surrender
One last chance, but as much as I want to leave the kill to Ashe if it comes to it, let's not hesitate if it becomes necessary.

>>4893417
>D) Run up and bring your spear to Lonato's throat while he's down and demand a surrender
As much as I want to claim that sweet sweet EXP this is Ashe's decision to make. But Lonato's not out yet so might as well make sure he doesnt try any funny business.

>>4893417
>D) Run up and bring your spear to Lonato's throat while he's down and demand a surrender
As good as we can get it, he should be in no position to fight back in this condition. Last chance, old man.

Ashe is 100% in love with us after this mission. We're his Knight in Shining Armor. Husbando route locked in.

>>4893417
>D) Run up and bring your spear to Lonato's throat while he's down and demand a surrender

Hopefully we will not be murdering our future father in law

>>4893417
>>D) Run up and bring your spear to Lonato's throat while he's down and demand a surrender
We can probably use holding their lord at spearpoint to get the mooks bothering Petra and Caspar to leave them alone.

But I'm cackling at this because at the start Blair gave her ''''word''' that Ashe and Lonato will have a chance to talk, and by Serios they'll talk even if she has to hold a spear to one of their throats kek

>>4893521
>>4893536
Catch me holding out for Dimitri until the very end. Probably will have to flip a coin to decide between Ashe and Felix if he's off the table

>>4893521
>>4893536
Sorry, Blair is a bit too pale for Ashe's tastes :^)

>>4893572
Dimitribros we can do this

>>4893417

>A) Finish off Lonato now while he’s trapped under there.

We gave you a chance, old man.

>>4893417
>D) Run up and bring your spear to Lonato's throat while he's down and demand a surrender

>>4893417
>>A) Finish off Lonato now while he’s trapped under there.

>>4893601
I was about to say, if they hit it off Ashe is gonna take Blair outdoors a lot more

Dude's clearly got a type

>>4893417
>>D) Run up and bring your spear to Lonato's throat while he's down and demand a surrender

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All this talk about the blue boys, and yet you guys forget-
I wonder how Blair would even handle him. I look forward to it.

>>4894021
Hahaha is this OC or did you find this? It's pretty great nonetheless.

>>4894104
Just found. Here's the source.
https://www.pixiv.net/en/artworks/83230481

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>>4893417
You run up to Lonato while he’s incapacitated and put your spear against his throat.

>“Call your men off now! Or your life ends here!”

Lonato barks a harsh laugh. “Hah! You’re tougher than you look girl, but not too bright. Do you really think I expected to live through this? Do your worst and get it over with.”

“Lonato!” Ashe limps into sight. He’s clutching his chest from where he previously was struck, but the boy is still standing on two feet. “Do you really intend to die this way?”

“Ashe…” Lonato manages to turn towards Ashe’s direction. The elderly paladin is unable to move his dead horse off him and at this point, seems content to lay there.

“Lord Lonato!” You turn to see the two guards that Caspar and Petra were fighting earlier run towards their downed lord, weapons in hand.

“Stay back!” Lonato yells. “No more fighting…Ashe…come closer.”

Ashe limps towards his adopted father and kneels by his side, throwing his bow away.

“That was…quite the shot. I’m proud of you, Ashe. You’ll make a fine knight, someday.”

“Lonato! Please!” Ashe fumbles into his pockets for a vulnerary. “There’s still time to save you! Blair! Caspar! Help me get this thing off him!”

“Don’t be foolish, boy. Even were I to survive here, my fate is already sealed. Ashe…you’ve always been like a son to me. Please fulfill this selfish old man’s final wish.”

“W-what do you mean?”

“I don’t want to be killed by that contemptible whore-spawn Cassandra. Nor do I wish to stand a false trial in front of that demagogue Rhea. Ashe, I ask you to kill me here now instead.”

You feel your heart skip a beat. The heated battle you were embroiled in a moment ago has ceased completely, and all you can hear now is the tell-tale signs of the Knights of Seiros inching closer to your location.

“W-what are you saying?! I can’t do that! Lonato, please!”

“To be killed in battle by my son…to be spared from the indignity of facing the false church’s judgment. Nothing would make me happier. End my life, and please spare the soldiers of mine that remain.”

You suddenly hear the shouts of men screaming in victory behind you. You’re sure of it now, The Knights have routed the Gaspard Army and will be here momentarily. You’re quite certain that the meaning of those screams isn’t lost on Ashe either, but you currently aren’t keen on rushing the boy to commit to the deed he’s been asked to.

“Hurry!” Lonato rasps.

Ashe remains tense for a few more moments, before drawing a dagger that was attached to his belt. “Thank you…for everything,”

“Give my regards…to your brother and sister…”

“I will.”

For one who is already no stranger to killing, you find yourself surprised when your eyes instinctively close shut as Ashe plunges his dagger into his adopted father’s throat.

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>>4894411
The battle is over, and the Gaspard Army has been routed. The remaining soldiers that were at Lonato’s side throw down their arms and surrender. Ashe is sitting silently by his father’s side, so you take it upon yourself to tell the enemy soldiers that remain to run into the forest and not to look back. Better they are not here when the Knights arrive, you tell yourself. No sooner than when they leave, do the Professor and Catherine spot you, along with a retinue of Black Eagles and Knights of Seiros.

“Are you four alright?!” Asks Byleth. “Where’s Lon-…” She trails off upon spotting Ashe sitting by the body of the enemy commander. “Oh…I see. What happened here?”

>“Negotiations fell through. We were forced to fight the enemy commander and slay him.”

“You four took down Lonato and his guard?” Asks Catherine, somewhat incredulously. You notice that she’s holding Thunderbrand, and it’s completely covered in blood.

You nod and find it best not to get into the details of Lonato’s death, at least for Ashe’s sake.

Catherine sighs, staring at the scene in front of her. “I wish things could have gone differently, but in any case, excellent work you four. This was no small feat.”

The two of them walk towards Ashe, but the boy is in no mood to talk. He ignores their prodding, continuing to stare at the corpse in front of him.

You plant your spear against the ground and lean against it, suddenly feeling just how tired you are now that the adrenaline has run its course. Its all you can do to hold yourself up right now.

>A) Seek medical attention, you have never been more wounded in your life.
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.
>C) Check in on Caspar and Petra.
>D) Check in with one of the Black Eagles and see how the battle went. (Speak to Dorothea or Bernadetta)

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe
He's probably the most shaken one. We can always talk to the others on the way back to the Monestary.
.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.
Yeah he needs the support more than anyone right now, poor guy.

Also I'm still in awe that Blair tanked Lonato like that, she's one tough cookie.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

>>4894413
>>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

He deserves some closure.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

>>4894413
>>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

>>4894413
Wew, that's one way to end it. Poor guy.

As much as I want to talk with Caspar and Petra, if nothing else to check how they handled the armor knight, Ashe needs a friendly shoulder.

>>4894413
Oh, I forgot: I know this is a bit callous, but did we get XP from our round of combat with Lonato?

>>4894594
Huh, Ashe probably got one whole level since he got the last hit on a promoted unit

Sucks that it had to be Lonato but hey

>>4894600
We gave it our best shot, in the end Lonato prefered to go out this way rather than fall on Catherine's blade. All that's left is to give Ashe a shoulder to lean on if he needs it.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.

>B) Stay and wait for Ashe

I cannot believe we somehow made this more traumatic for him. Poor fucking guy, let's at least see if Blair can help.

Blair apparently has a thing for archers as her friends, between Bernadetta and Ashe. And yet she has no contact with the Golden Deer so far!

>>4891909
Oh shit you playing Strange Journey Redux? Good choice man, unless... what route you doing? Don't worry, there is only 1 wrong answer.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.
>>4894921
I do wonder how we would mesh with Claude, does he pity us? Do we think he's a prick? And why does looks so good in yellow?

>>4895127
I think she would be more curious as to how he's constantly inverted.

>>4894413
>B) Stay and wait for Ashe.
See if we can't signal for a healer though, we've both been pretty roughed up.

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>>4894413
Caspar and Petra approach you, both look pretty beat up themselves, each of them sporting fresh cuts and bruises.

“Great work out there, Blair. I can’t believe you‘re still standing! That horse rammed right into you! You’re really something else, huh?”

>“I’m glad you…enjoyed the show…” You rasp out.

“Blair, you do not look beautiful.” Says Petra, a hint of concern in her voice. “Shall we accompany you to the medical tent?”

>“I’ll go there soon…I want to just…check up on Ashe first is all.”

“Okay, but don’t take too long.” Says Caspar worriedly. “By the way, we heard what you told Catherine. Don’t worry, we won’t share the details either.”

>“Thanks Caspar…I’ll see you at dinner.” You say.

Caspar and Petra give you an odd look before limping off in another direction.

The macabre task of unpacking the battlefield begins. Soldiers from both the Knights of Seiros and the Black Eagles begin the task of carting off the bodies of the fallen. Ashe remains at the side of his former lord until eventually, he is also carted off by the knights. The boy gets up to walk away when he spots you.

“Oh…Blair. You’re still here?”

>“You did the right thing, Ashe.”

“Did I? Would you have done the same if you had to kill the Count?”

In the silence that follows, you find that your heavy breathing has not slowed down. It’s not like you haven’t thought about Ashe’s question before. Its actually come up a surprising number of times actually ever since hearing of the boy’s plight.

>“Were the roles reversed…If the count was…endangering innocent lives in a war that was meaningless…Yes. I would do the same as you.”

“Even though he was the man that took you in? Provided for you? Saved you from poverty and ensured you and your siblings lived a life better than you had any right to?” Ashe asks, his voice rising as he speaks.

You grip your spear, still planted in the ground and holding you up. You’re woozy, you aren’t sure if you truly believe what you’re saying right now or if it’s merely to make Ashe feel better. But you stand your ground, both figuratively and literally.

>“Yes…even then.”

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>>4896806
The boy’s face softens a little upon hearing your answer. “I’m…sorry. I had no right to ask you that. Everything that’s happened today…this is something I never dreamed in a million years would ever happen. There are still a lot of questions I have. What drove Lonato to do this? It couldn’t have just been what happened to Cristophe. Something else had to have happened, and I won’t rest until I discover what it is. I’ll become a knight, and I swear upon my name that I’ll discover the truth. It’s the least I can do for Lonato’s memory.”

>You smile. “I think…he would like that very much, Ashe.”

“Thank you for everything, Blair. If it weren’t for you and the others, I’m not sure I would have been able to see this through.” He grabs your hands. “I swear it, if there’s anything you ever need, I’ll do all I can to help.”

>You feel a stronger bond growing with Ashe!

>”That’s…nice.”

“Uhh…Blair?”

Upon having your hands snatched from your spear, a few thoughts race through your head.

>How long have I been standing here? Did I get run over by a horse? I wonder what Damian is doing. Maybe getting medical attention wasn’t really a suggestion. I don’t think that Vulnerary worked uh oh.

Fortunately, you don’t vocalize these embarrassing thoughts, and you merely crash to the floor, landing on your face. As you hear Ashe frantically yelling and calling for help, and the world around you darkens, you wonder one last thing.

>What am I going to focus on at the Academy this month?

>Select options for the following:
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month.
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month

PROFICIENCIES:
Lance: C-
Authority/Tactics: D
Axe: D
Flying: D-
Sword: E+
Reason: E+
Bow: E
Cavalry: E
Brawl: E-
Faith: E-
Heavy Armor: E-

https://fireemblem.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_classes_in_Fire_Emblem:_Three_Houses

>>4896813
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)
This brings us to the requirements for both Pegasus Knight and the promise from Byleth to make us a Junior officer. We still have 4 levels to go before we can become a Pegasus Knight, good to see we're ahead of schedule. After this month we can shift main Priorities to Reason and Secondary to Sword/Authority/Flying to ensure we hit the requirements for Dark Flier at Level 20 and have some work done on Sword for Falcon Knight.

>He grabs your hands. “I swear it, if there’s anything you ever need, I’ll do all I can to help.”
>You feel a stronger bond growing with Ashe!
>Fortunately, you don’t vocalize these embarrassing thoughts, and you merely crash to the floor, landing on your face

Holy shit we knocked ourselves out due to embarrassment over handholding. This is hecking cute.

>>4896828
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)

WHAT THE GUY ABOVE ME SAID

>>4896828
Yeah that was cute

>>4896813
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)
I prefer to pick duty over honor. Hopefully Count Rusalka doesn't start kicking puppies or anything and make us go back on our word.

>>4896873
Well Blair did have a probable concussion when she said that.

>>4894594
Yeah but only 10. I forgot to add it. I'll apply to the next status update.

>>4895110
Neutral, and getting raped by Shekinah.

>>4896828
> Support

>>4896813
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)

Not using the new drawing for Blair?

Wait, what's going to happen to Ashe's siblings?

>>4896813
>>4896828
+1

>>4896995
I used it earlier and was too lazy to resize it

>>4896999
Relegated to off-screen hell

>>4897021
Well I hope Ashe has enough saved that he can send something back for them to survive

>>4896813
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)

>>4896828
Pretty much, but I'd like to take lances to B before we drop it for other things because B gives us swordbreaker we'll only need to raise it by one more grade after this month.

>>4897185
>“Were the roles reversed…If the count was…endangering innocent lives in a war that was meaningless…Yes. I would do the same as you.”
I don't think this is '''all''' the concussion speaking - behind her pragmatism Blair is turning out to be a pretty kind and caring girl. Plus it's becoming more apparent that she dislikes unnecessary bloodshed and would rather end things without lives being lost when she has the choice.

>>4896813
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)

>>4896813
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)

>>4897185
>Pretty much, but I'd like to take lances to B before we drop it for other things because B gives us swordbreaker we'll only need to raise it by one more grade after this month.
Yeah, sounds reasonable. One main focus + one secondary focus would take us to B Rank, so two more months after this one. We'll probably be at around Level 9 at that point so it'd come just in time for our Promotion to Pegasus Knight.

>>4896813
>A) Pick two Proficiencies to raise by one grade this month. (Lance/Flying)
>B) Pick one Proficiency to raise by two grades this month (Authority)

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>>4896813
>Chapter 4: White Clouds, Blue Sea Moon, The Goddess’s Rite of Rebirth

As you start to come to, the first thing you realize is that you’re no longer on the ground, but rather lying in a warm bed. There is a ceiling over you, and you can hear the familiar noise of the church bells of the Goddess Tower, which must have woken you from your slumber. You’re definitely not in Gaspard anymore, but how did you get back to the academy so quickly?

“Blair! You’re awake!”

You turn to your right at the sudden noise to spot Dorothea, sitting in a chair at your bedside. In her hands are a scarf that she appears to have been knitting and judging by its length she’s made quite some progress. Just how long were you out?

>“Dorothea? What happened? When did we get back to Garreg Mach?”

“You don’t remember? You poor thing. You passed out shortly after the battle. The healers said you were really hurt. Something about taking a lot of internal damage that your Vulneraries couldn’t fix.”

You begin retracing your steps, remembering the blow that you had taken from Lonato’s warhorse. It must have rattled something inside you fierce.

>“Right, I guess I should have probably seen a healer after the battle.”

“Probably is an understatement, Blair. You were knocked out for the entire five-day trip back. We only returned yesterday.”

>“Five days?! Well, at least I didn’t miss class.”

“You know, that Ashe boy was by your side every day. The medics had to send him away after a while. Hey, do you two have something going on? I think you’d make a cute couple.”

You pull your covers over your head. It’s embarrassing enough that you passed out for five entire days, you certainly don’t need Dorothea prodding into your love life.

“Hey, come on! You can tell me!”

As the two of you begin playing tug of war with the covers, you don’t notice the door opening.

“Err…Are we interrupting something?”

Peeking your head over your covers, you spot Edelgard standing in the doorway, with Hubert at her side as always.

>”Lady Edelgard! H-how are you?” You stammer out, returning the covers back to normal.

“I told you, you can just call me Edelgard. And I’m the one who should be asking you that question.” Edelgard pulls up a chair next to Dorothea at your bedside, Hubert opting to stand behind her.

“Lady Edelgard thought to pay you a visit and check in on your health. She received word that you and your unit were the ones that managed to slay the enemy general. A most impressive feat, for sure.” Says Hubert, icy eyes looking right through you.

>You nod. “I was merely fortunate to have good soldiers at my side.”

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>>4898804
“Don’t be so modest.” Says Hubert. “Lonato was a trained Knight of Faergus. You’ve proven yourself as a capable fighter. I would have rather enjoyed having you in my unit again during that battle.” You recognize an unmistakable hint of dryness in Hubert’s voice as he made that last remark.

Edelgard nods. “Hubert’s right, you should take more pride in your accomplishment. If only the Empire had a thousand soldiers with the tenacity and courage that you, Caspar and Petra share.”

>“I appreciate your kind words. I will do continue to strive to do my best.”

“Tell me Blair, what are your goals in life?” Asks Edelgard.

You think to yourself what a difficult question that is to answer, let alone when it’s being asked by the future leader of the Adrestian Empire.

>”I…wish to become a knight and pay back my master, Count Rusalka, with my service.”

Edelgard frowns upon hearing your answer. “A noble goal indeed. I have no doubt you’d serve Rusalka with great honor. But is that really what you want in life?”

>“The Count took me in after my father died. Were it not for him, I’d not be anywhere near where I am now.”

“I don’t necessarily believe that’s true.” Edelgard smiles. “I think you possess exactly the type of resourcefulness and skills needed to stand out amongst the crowd. The Count may have given you a noble upbringing, but even if he hadn’t, you’d still find a way to excel despite your class status.”

You’re not too sure that’s the case. No one’s ever told you that you standout. But you can’t deny that hearing praise from your future ruler feels good.

>“Thank you…Edelgard. I’m pleased that you feel that way.”

“Of course, I meant every word. Get well soon, Blair. The Black Eagles need you.”

With that, Edelgard and Hubert take their leave.

You’re able to be discharged from the infirmary later that same day, and Dorothea escorts you back to the dorm. That night, you pen a letter to the Count detailing recent events, before heading to sleep. As you drift off, Edelgard’s words remain in your head.

As the first week of the month begins, the entire monastery is abuzz preparing for the Goddess’s Rite of Rebirth that will take place at the end of the month. As pilgrims from all around Fodlan gather at Garreg Mach to pay their respects, you remember that Felix told you a small exhibition would be held at the Training Ground this month. You’re not sure if you’re in tip-top shape after Gaspard, but you did tell Felix you’d want to compete.

>A) Compete in the Exhibition
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Select either Ashe, Bernadetta, Caspar, Dorothea, Felix or Petra.)
>C) Head to the Chapel and see the preparations for the Rite of Rebirth.
>D) Head to the Fishing Grounds. You could use some relaxation after everything that happened.
>E) Go to the Marketplace and see if there are any jobs you can do for extra money (Current: 500g)

>>4898805
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
As much as I'd like to spend time with one of our supports....I want that rematch with Petra, along with seeing just how far we can get.

>You pull your covers over your head.
Gosh Blair is fun

>>4898805
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorothea)

Exhibition is running all month no? We just woke up from a 5 day nap after being injured. I think we can afford a week off to rest up a bit and we haven't actually spent much time with Dorothea lately. She's come to check on us, let's see what she's been up to.

>>4898805
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorothea)
She was with us while we were knocked out, so we may as well. We can always compete in the tournament a bit later.
(Still holding out on when we'll be able to meet Dimitri... Maybe at the end of the exhibition matches if we participate?)

>>4898805
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)
What a cutie being by our side all this time, we need to thank him for that. Plus I want to check in on how he's doing now that everything has had time to sink in.

Also I want to see if we can push him to B rank with this visit.

>>4898805
>>A) Compete in the Exhibition

>>4898805
>A) Compete in the Exhibition

>>4898805
>A) Compete in the Exhibition

>>4898805
If this is the only chance we get then
>Compete in the Exhibition.
If it lasts longer, and we have a second opportunity later
>Spend time with one of your supports (Dorothea).
It's been a while since we had some time together. I'll accept Ashe as a possible substitute, though.

>>4898805
>>4898880
Switching to
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
Because Blair is just shy of another level up and maybe all the spear swinging will give her the needed EXP.

Also Dimitri do you want to join in the festivities too maybe...?

>>4898805
>>A) Compete in the Exhibition

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uuoohhh

>>4898805
>>A) Compete in the Exhibition

>>4898805
>>4898805
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
If we do shit at we have the excuse of being run over by a horse
Joining the Dimitri summoning circle too kek

>>4898805
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorothea)
We've neglected best friend material for too long, and I'm not keen on going straight back into the fighting ring after we got our insides scrambled by Lonato just days ago.

>>4898805
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorothea)

>>4898805
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
If this wasn't a one-time thing I'd totally go for Dorothea, but she'll unfortunately have to wait until next opportunity to hangout. I'll just excuse it as Blair not being interested in being teased again since it's still fresh

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The Exhibition will run all month, sorry if that wasn't clear earlier.

>>4899412
Oh? Well that changes things. I'll change my vote >>4899369 to
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorothea)
And give Blair a *little* more time to recover before she gets back into action. Just hope when she joins won't affect who she'll encounter too much.

>>4898805
>C) Head to the Chapel and see the preparations for the Rite of Rebirth.

>>4898805
>A) Compete in the Exhibition

>>4898805
B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorororororothea)

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>>4898805
>>4898812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorothea)

Changing my vote then, as much as I'd like to protect this smile I feel like we barely talk to Dorothea, even if she's our roommate.

Next vote Tie Breaks

>>4898880
>>4899574
>>4898805
If it gets you writing changing my vote(again) to
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Dorothea)
Blair can have a little break as a treat before we force her into all the combat for those EXP gains.

Also we still need to get Dorothea up to B rank for a chance at her and Ingrid's paralogue.

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>>4898805
A combat exhibition sounds…less than savory right now. You decide to give yourself some time to fully recuperate before throwing yourself in the heat of battle again. If you do compete, you don’t want anything holding you back from performing at your best.

You begin your first week of classes for the month, focusing once again on studying dusty tomes and manuals detailing battlefield tactics during a famous military operation in Almyra. In particular, one of the manuals you’re reading contains information on Pegasus Knight flight formations that catches your eye. It all seems complex to you still, but you hope that as you get more comfortable with riding a Pegasus, you’ll be able to apply some of this knowledge in practice.

Your first week of class ends and you decide to spend some time with Dorothea. Despite being roommates, the two of you seem to be on differing schedules, and rarely spend time with each other outside of sleeping in the same room. After class is over, you decide to take a walk through the Greenhouse together and unwind.

“That was quite the conversation you had with Edie the other day.” Says Dorothea, stopping to observe a group of plants labeled “Nordsalat”.

>”What did you think? I’m not used to receiving such praise, let alone from someone as important as Edelgard.”

“I think she has a point. You should be more confident in yourself, Blair. You’ve achieved a lot since coming to the academy. Those stuck-up nobles may have had their nose turned up when you first got here, but these days I doubt they’ve got much to laugh about.”

“I am confident!” You retort back.

“Oh come on Blair, you were hiding under your covers like a little girl when I mentioned that Ashe kid. Do you have a crush on him?”

>You feel a familiar sensation of warmth creeping over your face before answering, “No! I don’t have a crush on any boys.”

“So then…a girl?!” asks Dorothea, a flair of drama in her voice.

>“Would you knock it off?!”

Dorothea laughs. “Okay fine, but seriously, have you at least considered dating? There’s plenty of eligible bachelors here you know. And most of them come from families that are loaded!”

>“I…haven’t given it much thought.” It’s true, you hadn’t. You’ve thought about studying and honing your skills and earning a knighthood, but finding a lover was never something that ranked high on your priority list. And why would it be? It’s not like anyone’s ever complimented you on your looks. Your mind recalls the Count’s heir, Rex, once referring to you as “The plainest looking girl” he’d ever seen.

“Well, you should! There are so many fairy tales about students finding love here. Stories about confessions of love at the Goddess Tower and couples that stay together forever. Ugh, why can’t that be me?” Dorothea asks, dejectedly.

>“Cheer up, I’m sure you’ll find someone soon! Faster than I, in any case.”

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>>4900941
“See! There we go again. Honestly, how can you be so confident when it comes to sticking holes in people, but not yourself? Even forgetting boys for a minute, it would go a long way when you’re eventually leading your own unit.

>You sigh. “Well, I guess you’re right. I’ll do my best to be a little more…assertive.”

“That’s the spirit!”

>You feel a stronger bond growing with Dorothea!

Despite the ongoing buzz and excitement surrounding the upcoming Rite of Rebirth festival, the shadow of Gaspard’s recent religious rebellion hangs over Garreg Mach. A letter had been found in Lonato’s possession that detailed an existing plot to assassinate Archbishop Rhea. As such, the Knights of Seiros are on much higher guard than usual, and you can’t turn a corner in the monastery without almost bumping into knights standing guard or walking patrol. The monastery gates are wide open to the public during the ceremony, and concerns are mounting regarding Rhea’s safety.

This month, the student’s mission will be to stand guard at Garreg Mach, watching areas of high value that could be a target for suspicious parties or assassins that make their way into the monastery while the gates are open. After class one day, Professor Byleth circulates lists containing the names of students and the areas of the monastery they will oversee defending.

“The Holy Mausoleum?” Asks Dorothea. “Sounds spooky. What did you get, Blair?”

>“Tauros Village?” You say, confusion evident in your voice. “Professor?”

“The Knights of Seiros have asked us to delegate some students aside to help with the escorting of villagers and clergy that will be making their way to the monastery.” Says Byleth, walking over. “Ordinarily, the Knights would oversee this task, but given the…ongoing threat, the majority of the knights will be staying here, instead. You’ll be working alongside some of the other houses under the supervision of a Knight to escort Tauros Village’s pilgrims and resident priestess, ensuring they aren’t accosted by bandits or worse along the way here.”

An escort mission? Well, you suppose it beats standing around guarding dusty rooms and antiques.

“Yoohoo! Blair! You’re going to Tauros Village too? How exciting! I was worried I wouldn’t be with anyone I knew!”

You turn around to spot Corrine, waving at you, a bright grin on her face.

>How will you spend your day of free time?

>A) Compete in the Exhibition
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Select either Ashe, Bernadetta, Caspar, Felix or Petra.)
>C) Head to the Chapel and see the preparations for the Rite of Rebirth.
>D) Head to the Fishing Grounds. You could use some relaxation after everything that happened.
>E) Go to the Marketplace and see if there are any jobs you can do for extra money (Current: 500g)

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
Okay we're rested up now let's gooooo

>You’ll be working alongside some of the other houses
Nice time for some mystery box support opportunities.

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
Gotta hand over the week to the Exhibition bros this time. I think one week is enough to recuperate, so it's time to get our ass beat like a bongo drum.

Okay so we get escort duty with Corinne and most likely some other NPC chumps, possibly someone of importance from another house. Honestly could be worse, Corinne seemed the least whack out of Hubert's whole squad. Lets hope she stays that way.

>>4900943
>Spend time with one of your supports. ( Ashe)

>>4900943
>>A) Compete in the Exhibition
Corrine seems like one of the more slightly okayish psychos to talk with

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition

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Blair attempts to study while totally not thinking about Ashe. Yep, completely focused on her education, nothing else going on here.

>>4900943
>>A) Compete in the Exhibition
If Dimitri's there we should try and be assertive like Dorothea told us to. I'm sure we could ask Corinne for fashion tips, too!

>>4900943
>>A) Compete in the Exhibition

>>4900943
>>Spend time with one of your supports. ( Ashe)

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition

Next free time, we hanging with ashe attack or Bernie baby. But for now, lets work the rust out of our joints

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
An inter-house mission? I have a feeling there won't be many of the big names, but color me intrigued even if we have to share it with one of Hubert's goons. And yeah, I think a week of relative rest ought to be enough.

>>4901429
Im down to spend time with Corinne.

She checks my boxes

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition

As much as I'd like to spend some time with Ashe, there's a lot of fights with certain characters that are going to be in the exhibition that I want to see. Namely fighting Felix when he uses his crest and getting a rematch with Petra.

>>4901087
Where did you even get this lmao

>>4900943
>Your mind recalls the Count’s heir, Rex, once referring to you as “The plainest looking girl” he’d ever seen.

Yeah we're part of the generic gang but jeez ouch dude

>>4901643
Plain still beats ugly, and even stands out among all the unreasonably pretty people around us.

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition
Yeah I'm happy for the last free time session to be with Ashe.

>>4901643
Rex couldn't have burned Blair better if he hit her with Meteor kek

>>4900943
>>A) Compete in the Exhibition
Also maybe we could ask Corrine to also participate? But I think she might have already signed up for it.

>>4901563
Don't stick your dick in (relative) crazy, anon

>>4900943
>A) Compete in the Exhibition

>>4901814
You mean don't scissor someone who might stab you with scissor in the throat.

Corinne is an OC who's part of Hubert's squad, huh?

Could be a stepper. Handle with care

>>4902134
Both really, though I gues yours is more relevant

>>4901814
You're a few years and a felony too late anon, I got it bad.


And lol at the anon who wanted fashion advice from Corinne, blood is not an accessory.

>>4902321
It is if you know how to rock it

>>4902457
If you say so, Corinne

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>>4900943
(Pardon the new IP. I'm away from home this next week)

You quickly scamper out of class, pretending you did not hear Corrine calling your name. The exhibition at the Tournament Grounds is still ongoing, and you decide that you’re feeling healthy enough to compete. You head over to find the grounds bustling with more activity than usual. Students have been competing against each other and outside visitors to the monastery for a week now, under the supervision of the Commander of the Knights of Seiros, Catherine. While you’ve missed the first week of competition, you can still get in some practice matches. Upon entering the grounds, you spot Catherine and walk over to her.

“Blair, was it? Good to see you out and about. I had heard you fell unconscious shortly after the battle. Are you feeling well enough to compete?”

>You nod. “I am. I was hoping you could match me against an opponent.”

“Well, if you’re up to it, of course I can. I’m eager to see what the girl that helped take down Lonato can do.” Catherine begins scanning the field for a suitable opponent for you when another student walks up.

“Is that you, Blair? What a surprise!” You turn to see Byron greeting you. Why is the Goddess attracting all these freaks to you today?

“Byron, I thought I had you dueling with Cedric?” Asks Catherine.

“Well, that’s just it, it seems that our duel ended…more abruptly than you might have expected.” With a grin, the boy steps aside and points a finger to a nearby during circle. Inside lies a smaller Black Eagle student, rolling on the ground crying. His nose is gushing blood as a medic casts a healing spell.

“I was hoping you might give me someone a little closer to my skill level, and then I saw Blair here! What do you say, Blair? I’ve been wanting a spar with you ever since our time in Zanado.” Byron says.

Well, why not? You can’t stand this creep, but if he’s giving you an opportunity to kick his ass, who are you to say no?

>You nod. “I’d be happy to.”

Byron smiles. “Great! I was beginning to worry you were more of a Blue Lion than a Black Eagle these days, but good to see you’ve still got some guts.”

“Take the stage once they clear Cedric out, I’ll be watching.” Says Catherine.

Heading over to the practice area, you take your practice spear up and face off against Byron. The boy has a wooden sword and shield in his hands and is staring at you with a look you don’t appreciate. Judging by what you saw happen to his previous sparring partner, you don’t expect this to be a friendly exhibition.

“Three! Two! One! Begin!” Yells Catherine

Byron
Class: Level 7 Soldier
HP: 32, STR: 12, MAG: 4, DEX: 9, SPD: 6, LCK: 8, DEF: 12, RES: 4, CHRM: 6
Equipped: Training Sword (+3 Damage)
Skills: Daunt: (Reduce enemy hit/avo by 10)

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>>4902810
Byron begins moving forward towards you, shield up. It looks like he plans to play it safe with you, but you have no intention of playing along. You’ve seen him in combat before, and while the boy is definitely sturdy, he’s overly fond of that armor his father bought for him. You unleash a barrage of spear jabs that keep the boy hidden behind his shield. Along the way, you clip him twice in his armor, dealing damage. (-6 HP, Byron 26/32)

Growling, Byron lashes out with his sword and catches you on the arm (-5 HP, 24/29). Before he can raise his shield back up though, you kick him square in the chest. As the boy’s guard is completely dropped, you decide to take out some of your pent-up frustration. You slam your spear twice into Byron’s midsection so hard, you fear the weapon will splinter in your hands. (-14, Byron 12/32)

You’re unsure whether Byron is regretting his decision to challenge you, but the stupid grin he had on his face has been replaced with one of abject scorn. Tossing his shield aside, he grips his sword two-handed and charges you. Byron has tossed all caution to the wind and swings his sword in a horizontal arc at your head. It’s almost comically simple to duck underneath and catch him in the legs with a sweep of your spear, knocking him on his ass. Before he can respond, you slam the butt of your spear into his head. Once it appears he isn’t ready to surrender, you slam the spear again, this time knocking him out. (Byron, KO)

>40xp Gained. Level up!

>Blair d'Rusalka
Level 7 Fighter (25/100)
HP: 29 (80%)
STR: 12 (45%) +1 = 13
MAG: 9 (50%) +1 = 10
DEX: 6 (45%)
SPD:11 (55%) +1 = 12
LCK: 8 (30%)
DEF: 8 (50%)
RES: 4 (25%) +1 = 5
CHARM: 9 (40%) +1 = 10

“That wasn’t…quite what I had in mind for a friendly spar.” Says Catherine as you walk out of the dueling area and by her. “But nicely done.”

Heading back to your dorm, you find this month’s stipend from Rusalka waiting for you. (+500g, 1000g total). That’ll come in handy, though if this month’s mission is really just a simple escort, you imagine you won’t need to prepare as much.

Another week begins and you hit the Pegasus Stables, gaining further training with your mount. You’re able to more confidently fly, and the instructor says that if you continue to practice, you should be able to soon pass your Pegasus Knight examination, and receive your very own mount. After wrapping up training, you’re given some final free time to prepare before heading to Tauros Village.

>A) Compete in the Exhibition again
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Select either Ashe, Bernadetta, Caspar, Felix or Petra.)
>C) Head to the Chapel and see the preparations for the Rite of Rebirth.
>D) Head to the Fishing Grounds. You could use some relaxation after everything that happened.
>E) Go to the Marketplace and see if there are any jobs you can do for extra money (Current: 1000g)

>>4902812
Nice to see Charm still getting the luck, soon it's gonna be one of our best assets at this rate.
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)
It took me a while to decide who to go with but I want more of Ashe, his touch shall make us faint once more.

>>4902812
A) Compete in the Exhibition again

Reeeeeee fightan

>>4902812
Nice, that's one of Hubert's bloodthirsty lackeys knocked down a peg. Now, I'd like to see if we can meet someone new, we haven't interacted with anyone from the golden deers if memory serves. Sadly, the library and food hall are the most likely places but those don't seem available so let's check...
>C) Head to the Chapel and see the preparations for the Rite of Rebirth.
Gives a chance to delve into Blair's thought on the faith perhaps, maybe meet some nice people (like Mercedes, Marianne or Flayn for example). Also, *very* nice level up.

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)

Need to thank him for watching over us, and show off the scarf I assume Dorethea was knitting for us

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Bernadetta)
I think we should spend more time with Black Eagles.

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Bernadetta)
I concur with spending more time with our house. Plus, Bernie is best Friendo.

>>4902927
Yeah we need to hang out with Bernie to at somepoint to, before she thinks we died and became a ghost or something

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)
I want to protect this smile.

Also, how many chances do we have to compete in the exhibition? Looking to fight Felix and rematch with Petra.

You know. I wonder what post time skip Blair will look like

>>4902949
Probably generic. The green unit legacy must live on.

>>4902812
>>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)

All things considered, I am happy that of all the stats, the one stat that we are getting a little screwed in is Dex.

>>4902812
>>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports.

> Ashe

It just hit me that we're going to be a flyer and whether we stick with the empire or betray it we're probably going to have at least one unhappy archer friend.

>>4902995
Not unless we recruit them

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)
If this pushes him to B then we've secured his paralogue, nice.

That is a nice level up, finally some speed and res. Thank you for sacrificing yourself to the cause Byron.

Also what does charm even do now that battalions aren't a thing?

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)
It is time to spill Spaghetti all over Ashe. We have to at least thank him for staying with us when we were unconscious.

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Bernadetta)

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Bernadetta)

>>4902812
>B) Spend time with one of your supports. (Ashe)

>>4903172
It's a Story/Narrative stat mostly. The higher she gets, the easier it is to interact with certain characters without dropping spaghetti, etc. And vice-versa.

>>4903419
But Blair dropping spaghetti is so cute!

>>4903756
But with higher Charm we can pretend to drop spaghetti! That way Ashe, or any person of interest, will find us endearing. Kinda like how Charlotte pretends to be ditzy to seem appealing.

>>4903803
Bah, without it being genuine it lacks the soul of a true, cute spaghetti dropping!

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>>4902812
You decide to check in on Ashe. It has been a few weeks now since the battle in Gaspard, and you’d like to make sure he’s been doing okay since then. The last you’d heard of him; he’d been at your side when you had collapsed. After asking around, you find the silver-haired youth at the Knights Ground, watching some of the Knights of Seiros running their practice drills. The boy looks lost in thought, but upon noticing you approaching, a bright smile overtakes his face.

“Blair! You’re awake! How are you feeling?”

>“Much better, fortunately. I guess I overdid it during the operation. Thank you for ensuring that the medics came to my aid.”

“Of course! What else would I have done? You were amazing out there, Blair. How long have you been training?”

>“The last five years or so, it was pretty much all I did. I practiced almost every day with the Man-At-Arms at Rusalka’s court. It was strict at times, but I was told that if I wanted to be a knight, I’d have to endure far worse one day.”

Ashe’s eyes light up. “You’re training to be a knight too?”

>You nod. “Yes. I’m not a noble after all. So, training for a knighthood is the next best thing I can strive for.”

“Ahh, I’m the same!” Says Ashe. “I’ve always dreamed of becoming a noble knight, like the ones you’d hear about in the stories growing up. A valiant defender of the weak, saving those in distress. It’s why I came to the Academy. Lonato…” At the mention of his adopted father’s name, the boy’s voice trails off.

>“How have you been feeling lately, Ashe?”

“I still have a hard time believing it’s all real. That Lonato is dead and I’m the one who killed him. I killed the man that paid for me to even be at this school. It’s all so…hard to believe.”

>“All we can do is move forward. Become the knight that Lonato knew you could be and find out the truth about what actually happened.”

Ashe smiles. “Gee, there you go cheering me up again. I’m starting to feel kind of bad about how much you’ve been helping me out.”

>“That’s what friends are for, right?”

“Right! Oh, I know!” Ashe digs into the bag sitting at his side, before taking out a book. “You’re training to be a knight, so have you ever read the story of Dame Alma?”

>“No, I don’t think I have. I only learned to read upon being adopted by the Count, and even then, it wasn’t really for leisure purposes.”

“It’s a book I just finished. Dame Alma was an Adrestian Pegasus Knight. She was so fearsome in battle, her enemies called her the ‘Witch of the Skies.’ But despite her moniker, she was a caring and brave soul who risked her life to save her comrade from the clutches of an Almyran ambush.”

>“She sounds like quite the character.”

Ashe hands you the book. “Take it! After reading it, I think you remind me a lot of her.”

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>>4905057
>You bow. “Thank you, Ashe, I look forward to letting you know my thoughts!”

The two of you spend the rest of the afternoon, talking and watching the Knights at work.

>You gain a B-Support with Ashe!

You’ll be heading out to Tauros Village in a few days, and as usual, you head over to the Marketplace to do any last-minute shopping before your mission. You’re not really sure what to expect. By all accounts it’s just a standard escort, under the supervision of a trained Knight of Seiros. Still, who knows what danger could potentially waylay you?

Proficiencies:
Lance: C
Authority/Tactics: C-
Axe: D
Flying: D
Sword: E+
Reason: E+
Bow: E
Cavalry: E
Brawl: E-
Faith: E-
Heavy Armor: E-

Gold Available: 1000g
Items Available for Purchase:
Iron Sword: 300g
Iron Lance: 300g
Iron Axe: 300g
Javelin: 450g
Hand Axe: 450g
Steel Sword: 650g
Steel Lance: 650g
Steel Axe: 650g
Torch: 200g
Vulnerary(x3): 100g
Iron Shield: (+2 Def, -2 SPD): 700g

Items Available To Sell: Iron Sword (200g), Iron Lance, (200g) Vulnerary(x7) (50g each)

Choose any combination of the following:
>A) Select something to buy.
>B) Select something to sell.
>C) Do nothing.

>>4905060
>Buy a Javelin (450g)
Ohhh, a book! I wonder what we can learn from it

>>4905060
>Javelin: 450g
Yeah, buying a Javeling is a good idea if this quest functions like the game and we're allowed to swap weapons in-between combat rounds. Always nice to have something ranged to fall back to just in case.

>>4905060
> Buy javelin

Also thanks qm that interaction gave me diabetes.

Do we need to raise our sword ranks to qualify for any of the classes we're planning to promote into?
Cause if not there's no real reason to keep it, and might as well use the extra money to get the javelin.

>>4905207
We need to have Sword at Rank C to qualify for Falcon Knight, but that's far in the future.

>>4905060
>Javelin: 450g
Since we're protecting NPCs it'll be good to be able to snipe people from a distance.

Also Ashe paralogue get, nice.

>>4905207
C for Falcon Knight, if we up it earlier we might have the chance to run a levin sword during our pegasus Knight phase (needs C rank too)

>>4905060
> Buy javelin

>>4905060
>Javelin: 450g
I'm tempted to also sell the Iron Lance to buy the shield, but it's probably for the best to have some gold available for later

>>4905060
> Buy javelin
So, becoming the new Witch of the Skies?

>>4905060
>Buy a Javelin (450g)

File: Annette and Mercedes.jpg (674 KB, 3264x2609)

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>>4905060
You settle on purchasing a Javelin from the shopkeeper, before heading back to the dormitory.

>Javelin Obtained! (550g left)

That night, you begin reading the book that Ashe gave you, entitled, “The Life and Conflicts of Dame Alma.” In the book, Alma is described as a beautiful and regal woman who was born to a peasant family in Adrestia. One day, while picking berries in the woods, she encounters an injured Pegasus that she nurses back to health. She returns to the forest every day to bring the Pegasus food and water, until one day, her village is razed to the ground by enemy soldiers in what would become the First Mach War of 721, where the empire of Dagda invaded Adrestia.

She is found by Dagdan soldiers when she returns, but before she is captured by them, the Pegasus she healed comes to her aid, allowing her to mount him and fly away. She then joins the Imperial Army as a Pegasus Rider, eventually working her way up from a mere common soldier to Commander of the Empire’s Pegasus Squadrons. The book goes into detail of her many conflicts, including a famous battle with a powerful Almyran Wyvern Knight, where Alma wins by the skin of her teeth after launching a javelin that strikes true at her foe’s weakpoint.

You fail to see the similarities between you and Alma, but it’s still a nice thing for Ashe to say. You do find that you are feeling pretty inspired after reading the book though, especially the part regarding Alma’s fateful throw.

>+2 Dex!

You awaken early the next morning, strapping on your boots, armor, and double checking your vulneraries and weapons. Not forgetting to equip your new Javelin, you heard out towards the front gates of Garreg Mach, where you’re to meet the Knight of Seiros who will be overseeing the mission, along with Corrine and the rest of your unit.

Upon arriving, you spot Corrine first, seated on a nearby barrel, looking at herself in a pocket mirror and applying some sort of makeup product. If you hadn’t seen her eviscerate several bandits at once back at Zanado, you’d think she was some sort of handmaiden.

“Hey Blair! I’m so excited to be working with you again!” Corinne says, putting down her mirror to address you.

>“Yes, I’m looking forward to it.” You manage to say somewhat convincingly.”

“Oh, I heard about what you did to Byron the other day! He was so mad about it, some of the other students had to restrain him from going after you after he regained consciousness. You must have really roughed him up bad, Blair!” She says, laughing.

>“It was…just a friendly spar.”

“He didn’t seem to think so. Better watch out, Blair. Byron can be quite the hothead, as I’m sure you know. I’d hate to hear about him doing anything…uncouth to you.”

You notice that there are two other girls at the gate, staring at you. The symbols on their uniforms denote them as Blue Lions. Both girls approach to introduce themselves.

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>>4906473
“Are you heading to Tauros Village too? That means we’ll be working together! My name is Annette Fantine Dominic, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” The first girl says. She’s a short, cheery lass with a bright smile and even brighter orange hair.

“Yes, and my name is Mercedes Martritz. Happy to meet you!” The other girl says. She’s taller, with light blonde hair and a pleasant demeanor.

>“I’m Blair d’Rusalka. Nice to meet you.”

“You’re the girl Ashe was talking about!” Chimes in Annette. “You helped him out back in Gaspard. Thank you so much! Ashe is a dear friend, we were devastated when we found out we wouldn’t be allowed to accompany him on his mission, but I’m glad that he had you looking out for him.”

At that moment, you spot a mounted knight slowly approaching the gate. The man looks to be a model Knight of Seiros, with immaculate white plate armor and an impressive steed. As he approaches, he gets off his horse, before addressing the group.

“This is who I’ll be working with? Surely there must be some mistake. Your four look like you belong knitting fancy dresses in some decadent manor somewhere. Goddess, what did I do to deserve this duty?” The man moans.

An awkward silence follows before the man speaks again.

“A daft lot, aren’t you? Let’s hope you can fight better than you can gab. My name is Leopod von Deltz. I am a Knight of Seiros of over 10 years serving under Archbishop Rhea, and I will be commanding this operation. Follow my orders and do as you’re told, and there won’t be any problems, understood?”

“Sir, yes sir!” The four of you shout.

“My understanding was that there would be two more students on this mission.” Says Leopold. “Where are-“

“Sorry we’re late!” You hear someone call out. That voice sounds familiar. It’s Raphael. The large boy is running towards your group, buttoning his uniform as he does so. At his side is a much smaller, bookish looking boy with glasses, who also appears to be a Golden Deer.

“And you are?” Leopold asks.

“My name is Raphael Kirsten, and this is Ignatz Victor!” Raphael chimes in cheerily, answering for his friend.

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>>4906478
“And why are you late, Mr. Kirsten?” Asks Leopold, quietly.

“Ahh, sorry about that, it’s my fault. I spent all day yesterday training. I guess I overdid it and overslept. It took Ignatz here longer than usual to wake me-” Before Raphael can finish, Leopold has already hit him hard on the side of the head, knocking the large boy down to one knee.

“I will not tolerate tardiness in my unit, Mr. Kirsten. Your professors may be more forgiving of such foolish behavior, but you’ll find that I am not. Now gather your belongings and get in line. The trip to Tauros Village will take two days.”

Unlike the previous two marches that you’ve been on, the trip to Tauros Village is much quieter. You’re unsure whether that’s because there are only seven of you, or because no one feels particularly comfortable chatting it up around Leopold. At the end of the first night, Leopold calls a halt to the trip and orders you and everyone else to set up camp. After camp has been set up, you find that everyone has gone to their own respective corners. There is still some time left before you go to sleep. Who should you approach?

>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more.
>B): Talk to the Blue Lions. Mercedes and Annette seemed really nice earlier.
>C): Talk to the Golden Deer. You never really got a chance to talk to Raphel after the Mock Battle, and Ignatz seems friendly enough.
>D): Talk to Leopold. The man is a taskmaster, but he’s still a Knight of Seiros. Perhaps he’ll have something interesting to say.

>>4906481
>>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more.
Let’s get to know our local psycho, also I’m still not how to feel about the new captcha

>>4906481
Aww man, I really want to buddy up with best girl Annette but the more we fraternize outside our house the more heartbreak we're bound to end up having during the War phase. But I don't really want to hang with Corrine though, and Leopold is an ass.

Gaaah, fuck it. Shortest girl is bestest girl.
>B): Talk to the Blue Lions. Mercedes and Annette seemed really nice earlier.

>>4906481
>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more.
I don't particularly want to talk to any of them so I'll choose the one from our house.

>>4906481
>>B): Talk to the Blue Lions. Mercedes and Annette seemed really nice earlier.
Hell yes let's talk to the best (and non-psycho) girls.

>>4906481
>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more.

>>4906481
>>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more.
She's the enjoyable kind of looney, let's chat.

>>4906481
>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more.
I'm sure she's a fine lass.

>>4906481
>D): Talk to Leopold. The man is a taskmaster, but he’s still a Knight of Seiros. Perhaps he’ll have something interesting to say.

>>4906481
>B): Talk to the Blue Lions. Mercedes and Annette seemed really nice earlier.
I'm kinda interested in meeting the golden lads too, but that doesn't look it's gonna have a shot at winning.

>>4906481
>C): Talk to the Golden Deer. You never really got a chance to talk to Raphel after the Mock Battle, and Ignatz seems friendly enough.

Might as well try. Also fuck this captcha

>>4906481
>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more.
t89ga

>>4906481
>A): Talk to Corrine. She’s by herself, and she is a Black Eagle. Maybe you should get to know her more

>>4906473
>You fail to see the similarities between you and Alma, but it’s still a nice thing for Ashe to say
>Alma is described as a beautiful and regal woman

Ashe got some serious game

>>4906481
>>B): Talk to the Blue Lions. Mercedes and Annette seemed really nice earlier.