[X] Sumia
[X] Destiny is a river with a strong current
Lucina's Dexterity raised from D- to D
Riding skill acquired (rank E)
Sumia quickly closes the distance between you two, and once again you're caught in another very welcome embrace, while Chrom gets distracted welcoming his pega-pony-princess rushing right behind you.
"Lucina! My, you've grown beautifully!"
You grin, trying to blink through unshed tears. The scene you dreamed so many times these last months is now finally a reality.
"Welcome home, mother, father."
Chrom, still holding Cynthia, ruffles your hair, an approving expression on his face. Everything about him is exactly as you remember, down to the slight lump that plagued him since he escaped an assassination attempt.
"It's good to be home. And I see you took care of your sister well!"
You nod. If those last two years were hard on you, they had been worse for your younger sibling, who had a hard time dealing with her parents prolonged absence. During that period, you took upon yourself to be there for her, despite not quite knowing how. You can only take comfort in knowing you did the best you could.
"Well, let's not just simply stand there. Come on in! We have two years to catch up to!"
***
The afternoon came and went in the blink of an eye, spent on the lap of your parents, telling you and Cynthia of the wonders of Valm, from the hot springs of Chon'sin to the volcano of Demon's Ingle, not to mention the sacred Mila Tree – though you can't help but be a bit disappointed that your request to learn more about the war itself was met with a good natured 'maybe later'. Still, it's been a long time since you ever felt so light.
Right now, you're finishing dressing up for the celebratory banquet held in honour to Ylisse's victory. All the Shepherds will be in attendance, along with their families ; you admit you have rather hazy memories of most of the people who fought alongside your parents during this campaign, though you know most of them through the tales of their sons and daughters, whose company you grew up with. Besides, they were all heroes! You could only hope that your accomplishments would one day be worth remembering alongside theirs.
It was with no small amount of trepidation that you finally joined the dining halls, under the careful escort of your maids. As far as celebrations went, this one was rather informal - you've heard your tutors bemoaning your father's 'lack of etiquette' often enough to expect this, though you're not quite sure why this is a bad thing. All around you, you can see the familiar faces of your playmates, along the less familiar ones of their parents. Your own are each deep in conversation, Chrom conferring with Sir Frederick, while Sumia is busy chatting with Wing Commander Cordelia, while Cynthia is listening to the two of them with rapt attention.
You hesitate for an instant, not quite sure who to go to. You don't know most of the Shepherds all that well, and while it might be an occasion to learn about them, it's also a rather intimidating prospect. Maybe it would be better to seek the company of your younger friends? Speaking of which, you can see your cousin waving to you in the distance.
Whose company will Lucina seek this evening? (pick three) Is there a specific topic you'd want to discuss?
[] ...
- [] talk about...
[] ...
- [] talk about...
[] ...
- [] talk about...
Alternatively, you may...
[] wander through the crowd
[] stay by the buffet
[] stick with your family
[] write in
[X] Robin
-[Q] How can I become a Grima cultist?
-[X] Tactics! How did Valm fight? How did you counter them?
[X] Say'ri
-[X] How swording is done in her country. (Basic differences, principles behind it, etc.)
... Well damn. I just realized the only Sworders are Lon'qe, our age, or completely new faces. If they even came here. Sai... something, the princess swordmaster. Which means she probably isn't here and we can't get into a conversation on what swording is like in her land/her style of swording. ...Sword.
And talking to Tiki or Nowi about "What's it like to be a dragon?" isn't as interesting by half without being part Grima.
... *Scowls* Instead we got miss "can't walk five feet without tripping over her own feet" as our mom. Seriously, literally anyone else would have been better than that. ... *Shivers* No Mpreg.
Sai... something, the princess swordmaster. Which means she probably isn't here and we can't get into a conversation on what swording is like in her land/her style of swording. ...Sword.
Say'ri is actually there right now, though you're quite right that she won't stay in Ylisse long. In fact, you'd better expect many Shepherds moving across the world, even if they'd remain on active duty, and ready to be recalled if needs be.
(leaving aside the fact that Say'ri isn't technically a Shepherd)
Well, she does have a high Skill and Speed stat in game... So her tendency to trip is more likely a trait. Thankfully, you managed to avoid inheriting it. Cynthia wasn't so lucky.
Say'ri is actually there right now, though you're quite right that she won't stay in Ylisse long. In fact, you'd better expect many Shepherds moving across the world, even if they'd remain on active duty, and ready to be recalled if needs be.
(leaving aside the fact that Say'ri isn't technically a Shepherd)
Well, she does have a high Skill and Speed stat in game... So her tendency to trip is more likely a trait. Thankfully, you managed to avoid inheriting it. Cynthia wasn't so lucky.
[X] Say'ri
-[X] How swording is done in her country. You must be really skilled Say'ri! So COOL.B(Basic differences, principles behind it, etc.)
[X] Virion
- [X] How are you Uncle? Wat'cha gonna do when you go back home?
[X] Cherche
- [X] You and Minerva are SO cool! Were can I get a Wyvern? (ask the basics of Wyvern caretaking, how they met, more about Wyverns, more about Auntie Cherche)
more minerva
all the time
[V] Cherche
-[V] fangasm over wyvern.
[V] Cherche
-[V] attempt to regain compsure.
[V] Cherche
-[V] fail.
[X] Cherche
-[X] "You and Minerva are the coolest things ever how can I ever get so in tune with such a majestic creature like you do with her" etc
[X] Say'ri
-[X] Sword arts are interesting. Those of Valencia are interesting twice over because we have not seen them before. "How does your swordfighting style work?" etc pull a begface omg. It is the mystery!!!!!111!!1
[X] Owain
-[X] Cousin time is win time. Right and left hands, that's who we are! no cynthia doesn't get to count
Lucina's interests are sadly war because her extended family and comrades just got out of one, so her natural curiousity would be wondering about what they've been doing and thus her interest at present lie with those things. Poor... poor.. Lucina....
Maybe she would be a bit reclusive as a result. *shrugs*
[X] Say'ri
-[X] How swording is done in her country. You must be really skilled Say'ri! So COOL.B(Basic differences, principles behind it, etc.)
[X] Virion
- [X] How are you Uncle? Wat'cha gonna do when you go back home?
[X] Cherche
- [X] You and Minerva are SO cool! Were can I get a Wyvern? (ask the basics of Wyvern caretaking, how they met, more about Wyverns, more about Auntie Cherche)
Well, since the writing is moving along quite nicely, votes locked!
In other news, I reworked the skill section a bit. First, they're now subdivised in several categories for clarity (war, leadership, social, learning and miscellaneous), Lucina is now the proud owner of a sword specialty skill (Ylisse Royal style, rank E), one theology specialty skill (cult of Naga, rank E) and two riding specialty skills (Horses and Pegasi). She no longer has a Leadership E skill, on account of it not existing anymore, but do have a History E scholar skill added (can't believe I forgot that one).
The sheet also has a Social Relation section, so far including a few of the older Shepherds (mostly family) and the younger generation. I'm not entirely happy about it so far, but still it's here. Might be subject to further modifications later.
[X] Say'ri
-[X] How swording is done in her country. You must be really skilled Say'ri! So COOL.B(Basic differences, principles behind it, etc.)
[X] Virion
- [X] How are you Uncle? Wat'cha gonna do when you go back home?
[X] Cherche
- [X] You and Minerva are SO cool! Were can I get a Wyvern? (ask the basics of Wyvern caretaking, how they met, more about Wyverns, more about Auntie Cherche)
You end up making your decision when you catch the sight of a woman with pink-redish hair standing at the buffet, glass in hand, apparently waiting for someone. Truth be told, you don't really know her all that well – your memories are a little hazy, but you believe the war with Valm started soon after her arrival to Ylisstol – yet you don't think you'll ever forget the first time you saw that impressive armoured woman wielding an axe twice your size and riding a dragon.
Well, you learned since then it wasn't actually a dragon, but to a five year old girl, it might as well have been.
Back then, you had been far too intimidated to approach her. But now? Now you were all grown up, you could do this. You straighten your back, take a deep breath, and walk forth to meet her. Her eyes catch yours a few instants before you stand before her, and she turns a welcoming smile your way.
[X] Cherche
- [X] You and Minerva are SO cool! Were can I get a Wyvern? (ask the basics of Wyvern caretaking, how they met, more about Wyverns, more about Auntie Cherche)
"Oh, you are princess Lucina, are you not? I am glad to finally meet you!"
You hesitate a bit as you attempt to think of the best way to respond, frantically trying to recall your etiquette lessons.
"The honour is all mine, lady..." a blush spreads upon your face, as you realize you're missing one important piece of information here. "I'm deeply sorry, I do not remember your name."
That last part is almost whispered, and you can't help but ashamed of yourself. That woman fought besides Ylisse and your father, she could have saved his life during the last campaign for all you knew, and you couldn't even remember her name? What could she be thinking of you? Well, if her widening smile was any clues, nothing ill, at least.
"Ah, it's quite alright, this is the first time we talk, after all. My name is Cherche, and there's no need for formalities between us, I think?" You hesitantly nod. "Great! Now, Lucina, did you want to talk about something in particular?"
You nod once more, this time more decisively.
"Your dra- your wyvern."
"Minerva? What about her?"
"Well, this was first time I saw one. And I wondered... what is she like? Is it hard to take care of her? How did you two meet? Where? I..."
The questions come flooding, your usual composure and trained politeness washed away by the sudden surge of enthusiasm. And Cherche, for her part... Cherche is beaming.
"My, I see Chrom raised a fine daughter indeed! Or maybe I should thank Sumia in this case? So you like wyverns, Lucina?"
You acquiesce, emboldened by the clear approval you can see in her eyes.
"Yes. I mean, when I saw you on Minerva two years ago, it looked so..." You pause, trying to find a more dignified word than 'cool'. "... cool." You fail to. Cherche doesn't seem bothered by it anyway, far from it.
"Isn't she? Not many people can appreciate the beauty of Minerva, but I'm glad the princess of Ylisse is one of them!"
"Where can I get one?"
You almost blurt the question, eyes shining. Cherche takes a pensive expression.
"Well, it wouldn't be easy. As far I know, there's no wyverns in Ylisse or in Ferox. I heard there are some nests in Plegia, but I seem to recall they have been rather difficult neighbours as of late."
You can't help but agree. While you only have the faintest clues of diplomatic affairs, you can only remember that the only time you ever saw your father truly angry was while he was talking about the Mad King Gangrel. For that man to deserve your kind father's hate, things certainly should have been bad. He was dead now, of course, but still, you could see the unease the simple word 'Plegia' could cause your parents sometimes.
"Ah, but I'm sure it would be possible to arrange something out. There are a few places in Valm that I can think of. But for now, I seem to recall you asked how I met Minerva...?"
The next half hour goes in a flash. You gape at the tale of a young Cherche wrestling, then befriending a wyvern – barely older than you were, even! You listen with rapt attention at what she has to say about taking care of those beasts, or the tales of her exploits as a wyvern-knight.
She is in the middle of retelling an engagement she had against one detachment of Valmese heavy cavalry when, to both your disappointment, she is interrupted by the arrival of her liege lord.
"Cherche, I wondered if I could to you about... Oh, my apologies, I didn't see you had company. How fares you, princess?"
You return the bow with all the grace you can muster.
"I am well, lord Virion. Lady Cherche was telling me about her most recent accomplishment"
"Lucina seems to have taken an interest in wyverns. It felt only right to oblige her."
"Oh oh! No wonder you two seem to get along so well! I wanted to talk to you about some business in Rosanne, but I suppose that can wait. Shall I take my leave?"
[X] Virion
- [X] How are you Uncle? Wat'cha gonna do when you go back home?
You only have the slightest hesitation before shaking your head.
"Actually, lord Virion..."
"Ah ah ah! I seem to recall telling you there was no need for titles. Uncle Virion would be perfectly fine, though!"
You smile, before correcting yourself.
"Sorry, uncle Virion. I wondered how you were doing. Your lands are freed from their invaders, are they not?"
The nobleman seems slightly surprised, before giving you an appreciative nod.
"You are quite attentive to details, aren't you? I didn't expect you to remember those kind of things."
"Yes, maybe you could learn a thing or two from her, milord."
Cherche's interjection draw a loud gasp and a pained – and, you suspect, faked – expression from the archer.
"Milady, don't undermine me in front an allied nation's representative! What would Ylisse think of that, I wonder?"
Before you can reassure him that you would certainly not think less of him for such an innocent comment, he offers you a roguish smile – what for, you're not quite certain – while Cherche simply sighs lightly.
"But yes, you are quite right. Rosanne is free, which means I will have to go back soon enough. In fact, I am only here to discuss some points of details with your lord father about an alliance treaty. But I won't bore you with all the boring parts that it will entail."
He let out a deep breath, and for a moment, his face seems tired, and maybe a bit... afraid? But the expression is quickly replaced by a look of confidence and determination, more suited to his station.
"Truly, rebuilding a nation is a daunting task, one I hope you'll never have to take. I believe the coming months will prove to be quite exhausting. Still, I have a duty to the people of Rosanne. That is something your tutors must have impressed unto you, am I right?"
You can only agree. "A ruler's duty is to its people" was perhaps the first lesson you learned when it came to prepare you to the position of Exalt.
"Truthfully, I believe I'll miss those days of campaigning with your father and his Shepherds. Never a dull moment among them, that is for sure."
Once again, Cherche can't help but raise an eyebrow.
"Oh? I seem to recall you were singing a different tune during those weeks spent walking through the swamps of the southern marches. Or maybe it was just my imagination? Milord."
Virion can't help but to raise his hands in surrender.
"Peace, my dear Cherche! Truly, your cruelty knows no bound! Do you see what I have to deal with every day, princess?"
You're about to take the defence of the wyvern-knight – in your opinion, anyone would be lucky to have someone so amazing as a vassal – but Virion pre-empts you once more with a sudden raised finger.
"Ah! I just got an idea. Tell me, Lucina, I seem to recall you rather fancied swordsmanship before we left for Valm. Is that still the case?"
You nod, not quite sure where this is going.
"Then there is someone you have to meet. If you would follow me?"
You hesitate a bit, unwilling to leave the company of Cherche, but she nods approvingly, apparently knowing what her liege has in mind.
"You should go with him, I think you might be interested. And don't worry, I will still be in Ylisstol for several weeks. If you wish to come see me and Minerva, it would be our pleasure!"
With a grateful smile, you bid your adieux to the wyvern-knight and step behind Virion, your curiosity picked, as he guides you through the crowd. It isn't long before you come face to face with a regal-looking woman sporting long black hairs held by a headband, her face and garbs giving away her Chon'sin origins. As she gives you a curious look, the duke of Rosanne steps in.
[X] Say'ri
-[X] How swording is done in her country. You must be really skilled Say'ri! So COOL.B(Basic differences, principles behind it, etc.)
"Please allow me. Princess Say'ri, it is with great honour that I introduce you to princess Lucina of house Ylisse ; princess Lucina, I am glad to present you princess Say'ri of Chon'sin. … though I suppose it will be queen Say'ri soon enough."
Virion's voice had grown hesitant at the end, as if realizing he said too much. And Say'ri herself seems to grow distant at the word "queen". There was a pregnant silence in the conversation, before the foreign princess straightens up and break it.
"... aye, I suppose it is so. I am glad to finally make your acquaintance, princess Lucina. I have heard much from your father."
His moment of uncertainty apparently over, Virion once again takes the initiative.
"Young Lucina here shows not small amount of promise in the art of the sword. As one of the finest, and, shall I dare to say, fairest blade to grace our assembly tonight, it is my belief you might be interested in each other's company."
You widen your eyes as the nobleman's intent becomes clear. Say'ri, for her part, seems half amused, half exasperated by Virion's antics, but looks at you with an approving glance.
"Fie! Flattery will get you nowhere, Virion. And skilled blades are dime a dozen among the Shepherds."
"Yet I shall stand by my words. That practice duel with Chrom was one of the finest display I ever saw, and believe me when I say I have seen a lot of swordfights in my life."
Slightly embarrassed, the swordswoman is forced to concede the point, and you can feel your interest rising.
"So is it true that the Chon'sin style is entirely different from the ones of this continent? I've read a bit about it, but it's the first time I meet someone who uses it... Wait, maybe Lon'qu does, but he doesn't talk much, so I'm not sure. And I don't think he likes me. But you do! So, how does it compare? I read that a proper master could draw so fast that the eye can't keep track. Is this because of the shape of the blade? I saw a picture once, but never got to look at one from up close. Ooh, and lord... uncle Virion said you fought father? Who won? And what..."
Say'ri can't help but laugh at the sudden onslaught, and you suddenly become more self-conscious. This is already the second time today that your facade as a proper princess slips today, what would your tutors say? Yet despite the self-given mental reprimand, you can't bring yourself to care too much.
"Truly, 'tis a rare thing to find someone as passionate in the art of the blade! A pity that I left mine in my quarters, or I would have gladly let you observe it. Let us see if I can satiate thine curiosity, then?"
Once again, time literally flies as you question the foreign princess on which techniques her styles favour, and of the philosophy behind it. You don't even notice when Virion steps out of the conversation, only realizing he left when you try to ask him if Rosanne saw some Chon'sin swordmasters on its land. You kind of feel bad for having ignored him so, and vow to apologize at the closest opportunity, but right now, you can't bring yourself to leave the company of Say'ri, utterly engrossed by her words. The way she describes it, the Chon'sin style is more than a way of fighting, it's a state of mind, a way to discipline oneself. Somehow, this feels right to you ; it reminds of those time where you managed to lost yourself entirely in your sword practice, until some worried instructor came to "let you rest".
Still, while the theory is fascinating, you're eager to observe a demonstration. Say'ri doesn't seem to mind, and it is a simple matter to extract a promise from her to show you some of her forms the next time you'll seek her out. To your mild disappointment, though, your parents finally come find you, uttering the dreaded 'bedtime' word. Your attempts at calmly explaining that you don't feel tired in the least are met by an amused, but firm refusal.
The end of the evening finds you exhausted (ok, so maybe you were tired ; still unfair), but content. You couldn't be more glad for the people you got to meet today, and hope you'll get to learn more in the coming weeks. As Chrom carries you to your chamber, while Sumia does the same with Cynthia, you listen to your sister happy chatter abut Cordelia and the pegasus knights. You can't help but smile ; apparently, she too did find someone to entertain her. Slightly shifting positions in your father arms, you finally succumb to sleep's embrace. For the first time in two years, you feel like everything is right in the world.
End of Prologue
Future opportunities gained
seek out Say'ri to learn about Chon'sin style swordmanship
The arrival of autumn finds Ylisse in a cheerful mood. People drink to the health of their Exalt all around the country, and enjoy this new-found, hard-fought peace. As for you, you feel energized. While your parents were away, you did your best to do what was expected of you, but it was often hard to truly put your heart into it, as worried as you were. But they are here now, and you're resolved to do the best you can to impress them.
[X] Sword training (basic)
[X] History and customs of Ylisse
[X] Etiquette lessons
Right now, though, those lessons still leave you with a lot of free time. You are only seven, after all, and your tutors don't want to overwork you. How to best spend it, now, that is a difficult decision. (choose 6 actions)
[] Ask your father to train you : so far, your fencing lessons have been... frustrating. Instructors have been overly careful with the heir of Ylisse, and all in all, you don't think they believe those lessons to really be important for your education. You tend to disagree, and which instructor could be a better fit than your father, hailed as one of the finest blades of the Halidom? Plus, some father-daughter time appeals to you.
[] Ask for new teachers : you don't have anything against lady Armelle and sir Ogham, really, you don't. But those tutors, appointed in your parents absence, have trouble keeping your attention. Maybe you could ask if someone else would be available to teach you?
[] Meditate at Naga's shrine : you actually visited the place more than once these last years, always with the same prayer in your heart. Well, it seems that Naga heard you, for your wishes have been granted. Surely saying thanks is in order?
[] Spend time in the library : while books never quite held the same appeal as swords to you, you also know that knowledge is a necessary tool for any ruler deserving of the name. And at the very least, you are decided not to be a disapointment on that front
[] Any specific topic in mind? (no extra action)
[] Seek out Say'ri : she promised to teach the basics of Chon'sin style, and you're always eager to learn new things when it comes to swordplay. And given the fact that she'll go back to her homeland in a few weeks, it might be a long time before the next chance.
[] Seek out Cherche and Minerva : Cherche said she would show you how to properly take care of wyvern, and getting close to one fills you with excitement. As an almost unknown specie within Ylisse, this is a prime opportunity!
[] Flying lessons with your mother : Ylisse most famous unit, after the Shepherds, is without a doubt its Pegasus Flying Corps, who distinguished themselves during the campaigns against Plegia and Valm. Having one of its member as a mother means you're quite familiar with the winged horses, but maybe you could learn more?
[] Frederick's Fitness Day : one frustrating thing about being seven : being so small. Yet, in your eyes, that's no reason to slack off. It is only natural, then, to seek the stern guardian of the Shepherds for some early training. Still, you wonder why everyone seems terrified when you tell them about your plan...
[] Double down on your lessons : studying is one thing, but things worth doing are worth doing well.
[] Sword training (basic)
[] History and customs of Ylisse
[] Etiquette lessons
[] Quality time with your sister : Cynthia idolizes you, and you couldn't ask for a better sibling yourself. Yet, you feel like you spent the last months trying to be her mother during your parent's absence. Now that they're back, perhaps it is time to relearn being her sister as well.
[] Spend time with the other children : during the Valm campaign, most Shepherds sent their child to the safety of Ylisstol palace, where you learned to know them. Somehow, they apparently came to look up to you as their unofficial leader, probably due to you being the eldest. Dealing with so many diverse and colourful personality is a handful, yet you couldn't ask for better friends. Yet you fear now that peace has come, some of them might leave Ylisstol, depending on where their parents might bring them.
[] As a group : while you have no doubt you'll see them all again, it probably will be months before you have a chance to all be together once more.
[] Pick one (warning : others might invite themselves!)
[] Write-in : thinking hard about it, maybe there's something else you could do?
[] Special - slack off : some of these lessons are... hard to bear. Surely no-one would mind if you were to take it easy on some of them? Or even miss them? (doesn't take a chice, but instead gives one extra choice or each lesson you pick with this option.)
Wohoo, double update. And quadruple post. Hmm, not a good sign, that. Criticism are welcome!
[X] Ask your father to train you : so far, your fencing lessons have been... frustrating. Instructors have overly careful with the heir of Ylisse, and all in all, you don't think they believe those lessons to really be important for your education. You tend to disagree, and which instructor could be a better fit than your father, hailed as one of the finest blades of the Halidom? Plus, some father-daughter time appeals to you.
[X] Meditate at Naga's shrine : you actually visited the place more than once these last years, always with the same prayer in your heart. Well, it seems that Naga heard you, for your wishes have been granted. Surely saying thanks is in order?
[X] Seek out Say'ri : she promised to teach the basics of Chon'sin style, and you're always eager to learn new things when it comes to swordplay. And given the fact that she'll go back to her homeland in a few weeks, it might be a long time before the next chance.
[X] Seek out Cherche and Minerva : Cherche said she would show you how to properly take care of wyvern, and getting close to one fills you with excitement. As an almost unknown specie within Ylisse, this is a prime opportunity!
[X] Flying lessons with your mother : Ylisse most famous unit, after the Shepherds, is without a doubt its Pegasus Flying Corps, who distinguished themselves during the campaigns against Plegia and Valm. Having one of its member as a mother means you're quite familiar with the winged horses, but maybe you could learn more?
[X] Spend time with the other children : during the Valm campaign, most Shepherds sent their child to the safety of Ylisstol palace, where you learned to know them. Somehow, they apparently came to look up to you as their unofficial leader, probably due to you being the eldest. Dealing with so many diverse and colourful personality is a handful, yet you couldn't ask for better friends. Yet you fear now that peace has come, some of them might leave Ylisstol, depending on where their parents might bring them.
-[X] As a group : while you have no doubt you'll see them all again, it probably will be months before you have a chance to all be together once more.
[X] Ask your father to train you : so far, your fencing lessons have been... frustrating. Instructors have overly careful with the heir of Ylisse, and all in all, you don't think they believe those lessons to really be important for your education. You tend to disagree, and which instructor could be a better fit than your father, hailed as one of the finest blades of the Halidom? Plus, some father-daughter time appeals to you.
[X] Meditate at Naga's shrine : you actually visited the place more than once these last years, always with the same prayer in your heart. Well, it seems that Naga heard you, for your wishes have been granted. Surely saying thanks is in order?
[X] Seek out Say'ri : she promised to teach the basics of Chon'sin style, and you're always eager to learn new things when it comes to swordplay. And given the fact that she'll go back to her homeland in a few weeks, it might be a long time before the next chance.
[X] Flying lessons with your mother : Ylisse most famous unit, after the Shepherds, is without a doubt its Pegasus Flying Corps, who distinguished themselves during the campaigns against Plegia and Valm. Having one of its member as a mother means you're quite familiar with the winged horses, but maybe you could learn more?
[X] Quality time with your sister : Cynthia idolizes you, and you couldn't ask for a better sibling yourself. Yet, you feel like you spent the last months trying to be her mother during your parent's absence. Now that they're back, perhaps it is time to relearn being her sister as well.
[X] Spend time with the other children : during the Valm campaign, most Shepherds sent their child to the safety of Ylisstol palace, where you learned to know them. Somehow, they apparently came to look up to you as their unofficial leader, probably due to you being the eldest. Dealing with so many diverse and colourful personality is a handful, yet you couldn't ask for better friends. Yet you fear now that peace has come, some of them might leave Ylisstol, depending on where their parents might bring them.
-[X] As a group : while you have no doubt you'll see them all again, it probably will be months before you have a chance to all be together once more.
Small precision, this lesson, along with the two others, is actually pre-selected, you don't have to vote for it. (you can, however, vote to slack off in it, but... somehow, I don't see that happening )
Small precision, this lesson, along with the two others, is actually pre-selected, you don't have to vote for it. (you can, however, vote to slack off in it, but... somehow, I don't see that happening )
Mostly agree. Mostly because all the training options double up as social links. However, may you please change the Chrom action? Learning the basics of two swordstyles at once is quite the stretch, especially since fighting is built on muscle memory. But wait, who can help us with managing this multitude if responsibilities, who can both prepare us physically and mentally for what is to come?!
[X] Plan veekie, Frederick Edition
[X] Frederick's Fitness Day : one frustrating thing about being seven : being so small. Yet, in your eyes, that's no reason to slack off. It is only natural, then, to seek the stern guardian of the Shepherds for some early training. Still, you wonder why everyone seems terrified when you tell them about your plan...
[X] Meditate at Naga's shrine : you actually visited the place more than once these last years, always with the same prayer in your heart. Well, it seems that Naga heard you, for your wishes have been granted. Surely saying thanks is in order?
[X] Seek out Say'ri : she promised to teach the basics of Chon'sin style, and you're always eager to learn new things when it comes to swordplay. And given the fact that she'll go back to her homeland in a few weeks, it might be a long time before the next chance.
[X] Flying lessons with your mother : Ylisse most famous unit, after the Shepherds, is without a doubt its Pegasus Flying Corps, who distinguished themselves during the campaigns against Plegia and Valm. Having one of its member as a mother means you're quite familiar with the winged horses, but maybe you could learn more?
[X] Seek out Cherche and Minerva : Cherche said she would show you how to properly take care of wyvern, and getting close to one fills you with excitement. As an almost unknown specie within Ylisse, this is a prime opportunity!
[X] Spend time with the other children : during the Valm campaign, most Shepherds sent their child to the safety of Ylisstol palace, where you learned to know them. Somehow, they apparently came to look up to you as their unofficial leader, probably due to you being the eldest. Dealing with so many diverse and colourful personality is a handful, yet you couldn't ask for better friends. Yet you fear now that peace has come, some of them might leave Ylisstol, depending on where their parents might bring them.
-[X] As a group : while you have no doubt you'll see them all again, it probably will be months before you have a chance to all be together once more.
Actually, your plan is Plan Aurakid, Frederick Edition (veekie did not pick Cynthia, and went looking for Cherche instead). Just thought I'd point it out to avoid surprises.
[X] Ask your father to train you : so far, your fencing lessons have been... frustrating. Instructors have overly careful with the heir of Ylisse, and all in all, you don't think they believe those lessons to really be important for your education. You tend to disagree, and which instructor could be a better fit than your father, hailed as one of the finest blades of the Halidom? Plus, some father-daughter time appeals to you.
[X] Meditate at Naga's shrine : you actually visited the place more than once these last years, always with the same prayer in your heart. Well, it seems that Naga heard you, for your wishes have been granted. Surely saying thanks is in order?
[X] Seek out Say'ri : she promised to teach the basics of Chon'sin style, and you're always eager to learn new things when it comes to swordplay. And given the fact that she'll go back to her homeland in a few weeks, it might be a long time before the next chance.
[X] Seek out Cherche and Minerva : Cherche said she would show you how to properly take care of wyvern, and getting close to one fills you with excitement. As an almost unknown specie within Ylisse, this is a prime opportunity!
[X] Flying lessons with your mother : Ylisse most famous unit, after the Shepherds, is without a doubt its Pegasus Flying Corps, who distinguished themselves during the campaigns against Plegia and Valm. Having one of its member as a mother means you're quite familiar with the winged horses, but maybe you could learn more?
[X] Spend time with the other children : during the Valm campaign, most Shepherds sent their child to the safety of Ylisstol palace, where you learned to know them. Somehow, they apparently came to look up to you as their unofficial leader, probably due to you being the eldest. Dealing with so many diverse and colourful personality is a handful, yet you couldn't ask for better friends. Yet you fear now that peace has come, some of them might leave Ylisstol, depending on where their parents might bring them.
-[X] As a group : while you have no doubt you'll see them all again, it probably will be months before you have a chance to all be together once more.
[X] History and customs of Ylisse
[X] Etiquette lessons
While you're certainly putting in more than a token effort to please your tutors, you know your heart isn't really in it right now. Still, you're quite aware that the duties of an Exalt aren't always pleasant. So in a way, that's training?
No change... for now.
[X] Sword training (basic)
[X] Ask your father to train you
When your usual sword lesson is once again interrupted just as you feel you're getting the hang of it, your decision is made. The following hour sees you walking on your father's office, and request with all the aplomb of a seven year old girl that he'd help you in your sword training. To your absolute delight, he agrees pretty much instantly. Robin tries to warn him that such commitment could leave him with less time for his other duties, but Chrom replies that a man who doesn't have time for his own children would make for a poor ruler. Your father is the best.
You find him the day after in place of your usual instructor, and you spend a good part of the morning working through various forms, most coming from his own fighting style. While you're of course not allowed to handle an actual steel blade yet, you can't help but notice the new set of wooden swords is noticeably heavier than what you're used to. By the end of it, you've never been so tired after a session, but you're determined to keep it up. Through the weeks, you come to an understanding of the style practised by the royal house of Ylisse. It is an extremely taxing form, putting an emphasis on a combination of blinding speed and overwhelming strength, and your own stature makes it hard to really exploit its whole potential – for now. On the other hand, you're pretty sure this training regimen my help with your physical condition.
More importantly, you get to spend a lot of time with your father. After being separated for so long, you are willing to savour each moment. You don't even realize that you also start to mimic his posture and mannerisms until an amused Owain points that out to you. Once you realize he is right, you decide to keep doing it anyway.
Sword training (basic) became Sword training (Ylissean royal style) ; progress rate increased
Skill : swords raised to E+
Skill : Ylissean royal style (swords) raised to E+
[X] Meditate at Naga's shrine
Naga apparently listened to your prayers and brought everyone back home safe and sound. For that, you are well decided to show your gratitude. Once there, you are surprised to find a new figure in attendance ; you admit you only know sir Libra from what little Noire could tell you, but he manages to quickly put you at ease. Your first conversations are about his daughter – while it was necessary, he nonetheless regrets the need to stay away from her for so long, and is interested by anything you can tell about her ; it isn't long, though, until he questions you on your apparent devotion to Naga, and you feel no shame explaining it.
While he gently disabuses you on the notion that "everyone" was saved – the war has been brutal and bloody, and Ylisse's staunch allies, the Feroxi warriors, paid an especially heavy price, he nonetheless commends you on your dedication. In turn, you ask him about his work as a priest. Turns out it seems surprisingly simple. Most of his time is spent healing the sick and wounded, sometimes simply listening someone in distress. In the end, he says, the will of the gods isn't so hard to understand, it is just difficult to follow. It is an endless job, but somehow he doesn't seem to mind.
You still manage to find some time to meditate and commune with the Divine Dragon, which was the whole point to begin with. While you wouldn't say you're particularly devout, you were raised to respect Naga for the blessings she bestowed upon the Halidom, and on your family in particular. Also, you have to admit those moments of introspection are a balancing influence, especially after a hard day of training. A presence seems to loom at the edge of your consciousness...
Characteristic : willpower increased to D
Skill : theology raised to E+
Option unlocked : Help Libra at Naga's Shrine ???
[X] Seek out Say'ri
You're not about to forget the princess of Chon'sin offer. While training with your father is more than satisfactory, there's no such thing as "too much swording" as far as you're concerned, and the prospect of learning an entirely different school of combat intrigues you. When you come knocking at the first opportunity you get, you're lucky enough to find her available, and after being offered tea, you two join the courtyard for a first demonstration.
The exhibition leaves you awed. Say'ri's form is, for lack of better words, mesmerizing. The elegance and control of her swordplay is miles ahead the flailing of you and your friends, and you easily understand how she could have matched the Exalt while sparring (though you refuse to doubt the outcome. Father is the best). You know the point of sword-fighting is to be efficient, not to look good, but in your mind, there's no reason why it can't do both.
You exercise with a bokken for a few weeks, managing a crude approximation of the correct stances. Still, it's a start. The imminent departure of Say'ri, however, is difficult to swallow. You knew it was inevitable, but that doesn't make the prospect any more pleasant – it doesn't help that you genuinely like the other's princess company and the tales of her homeland. She reassures you by reminding you that you can always look out for Lon'qu if you wish to learn more, but you're a bit hesitant about that. The feroxi swordmaster seems rather difficult to approach.
The days of winter are coming to an end when you receive a surprise visitor. As you're about to leave your room to continue Lady Armelle's tutoring, you find a nervous Severa waiting for you outside the door. You try to remember the last time she seeked you out, and come out blank ; that is not something the daughter of Cordelia usually do. As she sees you, she straightens, as if asked to stand at attention,but words still seem to elude her.
"Severa? How long have you been here?"
She only shrugs off the question.
"Not too long. It's not important."
You suspect that this 'not too long' might have been, in fact, pretty long. You can't quite hold back a sigh. It seems she always do things the hard way.
"You know, you could have knocked."
"I know, I know, sheesh! I don't need you to tell me that!"
And now she's getting worked up. You never can't keep up with the mood when she's involved. Figuring out it might be better to let her work things at her own pace, you fall into a comfortable silence while she tries to figure out what to say next. Finally, the words come out.
"So... you spent a lot of time with your dad and lady Say'ri these last months, right?"
You nod enthusiastically.
"Yeah! It's too bad she had to leave, though. I still have much to learn."
"But you did learn. A bit, at least."
Severa bits her lip, clearly reluctant.
"Could you... I don't know, show me? One of these days?"
You blink. Somehow, you get the feeling that something doesn't add up.
"Wait, but didn't you say you wanted to train as a pegasus knight with your mother once she got home? How did that go?"
The young girl grits her teeth, and almost growl her response.
"I don't want to talk about it."
"But I thought-"
"Listen, it's not the point, all right? If you don't want to help me, just say so!"
And here she goes again. It seems you managed to make her angry once again. In fact, you have the feeling that happens most of the time you two talk. Does she hate you? But if she was, she wouldn't be here, right? Severa is... confusing, you think. Still, she asked you a question...
[] Accept : you're only a novice, but surely you could give her one or two pointers if she decides to start training with a sword. And maybe it's an occasion to get to understand her better. [] Direct her to someone else : you're not confident that she'd learn anything with you. Better point her out to someone who can properly teach her. Now, Say'ri is gone and father would probably be too busy, but good swordsmen are aplenty in Ylisstol, right?
[] Sir Frederick
[] Sir Lon'qu
[] Sir Gregor
[] Lady Sully
[] Refuse : you don't think you have the time or the skills, and you're not sure if Severa would appreciate simply being handed to someone else. Better let her find another teacher on her own if she's serious about this. [] Write-in
Split the update in two. You have something to vote for in the meantime.
In other news, since you started progressing in two different sword styles, I began to write a bit about different options for sword users that should be posted soon. Right now, I have full descriptions for the royal style, the Chon'sin style and an arcane blade style (basically, tactician style). Also working on a paladin style (tank tank tank) and a wandering hero style (the 'whatever works' style). If you have ideas of your own - or even want to rename those options, 'cause this was pretty uninspired - don't hesitate to share them with the class.
Also, look forward for the arrival of a relationship meter. Man, work never ends. Every comment and criticism are, as always, welcome.
And... hmm... I'm really not sure what style she would be suited for. I mean the Hero/Merc style is obvious, but that's kind of meta... who's her dad? Cordelia was... a fairly strong pegasus knight if memory serves... I'm not sure I'd trust Gregor to impart good life lessons though, he's... simple. And a mercenary.
She could be suited for royal style, but well, royal style.
Might ask her to wait a... month? And then we can teach her base swording. Teach her, teach ourself, get her a good grounding in swords, and then take her around as we learn some styles see what she wants to learn.
