#“there's Claude” look i know there's Claude. I'm grateful for Claude

[pegasusknightsonly]

probably the biggest lesson intsys should have taken away from fates is that without sufficient pretty boys in the game it will be DOA but did they learn this?? did they????

[k-s-morgan]

Hi Katrin! I hope you are doing well.

I was reading your previous posts and I saw that you said Ciel realizes his love for Sebastian just before he attempts to take his soul. I just thought that is so soul-crushing and sad for Ciel. Imagine feeling love, an emotion the poor boy isn't familiar with, and having it be during your last moments before the one you love kills you. With everything they've been through, I can imagine Ciel must have had a little glimmer of hope that Sebastian might change his mind? I feel like that might be a little out of character for Ciel, but I feel like he would be in pain and Sebastian might sense this change in him?

I remember you also said Sebastian would have eaten Ciels soul if Claude didn't interfere. I just feel so bad for the poor boy :(( even Sebastians expression at the end shows nothing but hunger and I can imagine that Ciel would think he is nothing but a meal to him. I'm so curious to know Sebastians POV before he was going to take his soul. Do you think he was just overtaken by hunger?

Thank you for listening to my rambling 🩷

Hi!

That's exactly how I feel about this, too - it's such a bitter irony for Ciel to fully realize and acknowledge his love when he is seconds away from being killed by the one he loves. And while I'll know for sure when I get there, I think he would be fine with Sebastian killing him - what tortures him is the thought that for Sebastian, it's just the end of yet another contract. Sebastian looks so predatory in that scene, Ciel will likely feel like he is glad to be rid of him.

Not sure if Sebastian will sense anything because Ciel's emotions seem to be all over the place there. He doesn't feel happy and liberated from getting his revenge; he's hurt physically, he's endlessly tired, and he's emotionally drained. His bitterness is absolute, and Sebastian's own feelings are probably a total mess at that point. Amidst the mad rush and emotional turmoil, he'll be focused on bringing their contract to the end and savoring what he's been longing for-for so long. He won't be paying attention to nuances, which is why he won't notice Claude's presence until it's too late.

As for why Sebastian intended to take Ciel's soul despite all the feelings he developed: I think in his eyes, all the changes he experienced paled against the millenia of following the same formula of making a contract, eating a soul. He's still a demon, and his grasp on emotion remains limited. Sebastian could fully learn from his mistake only after committing it - in fact, he shows this pattern time and time again, underestimating Ciel, being surprised, then looking down on him again for something. He was always destined to consume Ciel's soul, and he was always destined to regret it, like he did in Yana's Red Valentine.

Which is why I personally am very grateful for S2 ending :D That's the surest way to make Sebastian confront his attachment fully and irrevocably.

So, basically, I think a demon cannot change quickly, and even if they do, it'll take them ages to come to terms with this fact and to learn to accept these changes, not ignore or fight against them.

[terrortwinunicorn]

Junior Prom

Damian's POV

Y/N has officially moved into my place. Her house is on the market. We are hanging pictures that she had had hanging in her house. One of the last pictures was of us at my junior prom, the other two were our senior proms. I went to her senior prom and she mine since they were on consecutive weekends with mine being first. I picked up the photo of my junior prom. It was the typical prom pose. Her back to my front. My arms around her, our hands resting on her stomach. Our faces turned to the camera. We are both smiling. I wore a black tux and a tie that matched y/n's mauve colored dress with black lace overlay. Her cousin's wife was a seamstress and custom made her gown so she had been coming to the Bronx once a month for a fitting and she had plan on taking the dress back to the opposite end of New York but then plans changed. My date decided to go back to her ex and y/n didn't want to be in the same zip code as her ex because he absolutely destroyed her emotionally. Our junior proms happened to fall on the same day so I asked if she'd come to mine. Pops kindly paid for her flight to New York City. Her cousin still having material from y/n's dress made me the matching tie in one day.

"This night was special," I said as I hung the picture.

Y/N smiles at me as she rested her head on my shoulder "Still one of my favorite memories of us. And still one of my favorite dresses Claudine has ever made me," she said as I wrapped an arm around y/n's shoulders.

Demi who along with her husband, Matt was helping us unpack y/n's stuff and arrange it looks at the photo.

"Cute. So how did that all come about?!" she asked.

"Yeah," said Matt.

Y/N looks at me "Well we do have to take time to eat. So how about we take a break, eat and tell em about your junior prom," she said.

"Sounds like a plan," I said.

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Narrator's POV

June 3, 1999.....

Sixteen year old Y/N stood on a small stool in the living room of her cousin Bruno and his wife Claudine's house. Luis, also sixteen sat on the sofa watching as Claudine was putting the finishing touches to y/n's prom dress. Y/N was singing along to the radio as As Long As You Love Me by Backstreet Boys began. She was also dancing.

"Y/N. I suggest if you don't want blood on your prom dress stop dancing," scolded Claudine.

"I kinda like my private concert," said Luis as y/n giggles as a strand of her chocolate brown hair fell from her messy bun and into her face. She blew it out of her face but it fell so she tucked it behind her ear.

"Luis. You're not helping," said Claudine holding onto y/n's swaying hips "Y/N hold still. You can sing but no dancing!"

"Wouldn't it be smart to see if she can dance in it?" asked Luis.

"Not while I am pinning it!" said Claudine as she grabbed y/n by the waist as she sang Fun, Fun, Fun by The Beach Boys began "Y/N Y/M/N! STAND STILL!"

"Sorry Claude," said y/n.

"It's fine. But I'm trying to pin this to fit you like a second skin like you want it. So hold still," she murmured as she put a pin in her mouth.

Luis sat back watching his best friend getting the dress of her dreams made as Truly Madly Deeply by Savage Garden began. He smiled at her and she gave him a grateful smile back. She had asked him to come over for lunch and she was happy he came. But all she had to do was send up the bat signal and he would come like he had for the last six years of knowing each other. She just wanted her best friend there. She had just been cheated on and just needed the comfort of her best friend. She was now going to be attending Luis's prom as she sure as hell didn't want to go to her own which fell on the same night and Luis's date dumped him to go back to her ex. So this was going to be last minute and Claudine was trying to repair a few seams that were damaged by the family's cat but y/n now wanted her dress more form fitting as well. Not that Luis was complaining. He definitely had to admit she had the body for it and the sexier the dress the more his buddies at school would be jealous and his bullies even more with y/n walking in on his arm.

Claudine smiles as she saw the way Luis looked at y/n. Meanwhile y/n was completely unaware as as she sang along to Escapade by Janet Jackson. Claudine put one last pin into the dress.

"Okay," said Claudine "Have a look in the mirror see if it's to your liking."

Y/N steps off the stool and walked to the full length mirror in the corner of the living room. She checked herself in the mirror. Luis watching her every move. His heart skipping a beat as y/n glanced in the mirror at him.

"Luis? What do you think?" she asked.

"Me?" he asked pointing to himself.

"You're the only Luis here," giggles y/n as she turned to him "It's not to sexy right?"

Luis gulps and shook his head 'no' even though he found it incredibly sexy on her "No. Just right. I can't wait to have you on my arm walking into that country club. Everyone will think I won the lottery of dates."

She giggles as Claudine shook her head "Do you like it y/n?" she asked.

"Love it," said y/n as Bruno and Claudine's son Angelo, also sixteen came home. He was one of Luis's closest friends.

"Woah," said Angelo as he saw y/n "Cuz. That dress makes your ass look amazing!"

"Angelo Michael!" scolded Claudine.

Angelo laughed before smacking Luis on the back "I bet Luis agrees," he smirks knowing Luis has a massive crush on y/n even if Luis didn't want to admit it.

"Ange. That's your cousin!" said Luis angry that Angelo is selling him up the river.

"And I know my cousin is drop dead gorgeous. Our friends and enemies are all going to be slack jawed when they see you walk in with y/n on your arm," said Angelo.

"Y/N let's go get you out of the dress so I can fix it. Luis, would you like to stay for dinner?" asked Claudine.

"Thank you Mrs Ottomano. I would love too," said Luis as Claudine helped y/n to her sewing room.

"Perfect and after dinner I can measure your neck to make the tie to match the dress," she said "Angelo set the table and then call Bianca downstairs."

"Do I have to set the table?" groans Angelo.

"I can help Mrs. Ottomano," said Luis.

"Thank you Luis," said Claudine as she shut her sewing room door.

Damian's POV

"I can help Mrs. Ottomano," Angelo mocks me "Dude. Seriously. Why butter my ma?" he asked.

"I'm being a polite guest," I said.

"Dude it's not going to win you any brownie points with y/n. She pretty much already thinks you hung the moon," he said with a smirk.

"What are we talking about?" asked Bianca, Angelo's fourteen year old sister coming into the living room.

"Luis trying to score brownie points with y/n," said Angelo as we head to the kitchen to set the table.

Bianca laughed "Oh please she already thinks he hung the moon," she said as she grabbed silverware.

"Oh come on. She does not think I hung the moon," I said as the backdoor opens and the oldest of the three Ottomano siblings, Salvatore enters. Sal is about five years older than Angelo and I so he's about twenty one.

"Who doesn't think you hung the moon, Luis? " asked Salvatore.

"Y/N," I said.

Salvatore smirks "Oh she does though. Just as much as you think she walks on water and have a massive crush on her," he said.

"I do not! Y/N is just my best friend!" I said.

Salvatore, Angelo and Bianca exchange looks before laughing as Mr. Ottomano walked through the back door.

"What is so funny?" he asked.

"Luis. Saying that y/n is just his best friend," said Bianca looking at her father.

Mr. Ottomano smiled and chuckled lightly "They are best friends," he said. I breath a sigh of relief at least one person beside me was sane "But," shit "Luis. I have seen how you look at my little cousin. It's not a crime to have feelings for her."

I blink at him "I don't have those types of feelings. I love her yes. She's been my best friend since we were ten. She's my ride or die. I am not repeat NOT in love with y/n."

Mr. Ottomano smirks "Okay son. You keep telling yourself that," he said patting me on the back.

Y/N and Mrs. Ottomano came into the kitchen. Y/N back in street clothes.

"Hi Bruno. Hi Sally," she said hugging them quickly.

"Y/N. The older you get the prettier you become," said Salvatore cupping her face before kissing her forehead.

"No. Sally!" she said.

Salvatore smirks "Don't believe me ask Luis," he said shooting me a look.

"Luis. What's Sally talking about?" she asked looking at me.

I opened and closed my mouth a few times but not a single word came out. Angelo elbows me in the ribs causing me to gasp.

"Angie why would you do that?" said y/n rushing over to me as she placed a hand on my chest "Are you okay?" her eyes met mine and it was like a lightning bolt struck me.

"I'm fine," I said "Don't worry. We will be dancing the night away tomorrow."

"Seriously not worried about that. I am more concerned about you being hurt!" she said "Angie why would you elbow Luis like that?!"

"Y/N it is okay. I am fine," I said "It was an accident. Right Ange?"

"Yeah," said Angelo shooting me a look before mouthing 'chicken shit' to me.

I cupped y/n's face and kissed her forehead "And Sal was right. You do get prettier each passing year," I said looking at Mr. Ottomano, Salvatore and Angelo. I gave them all a look "And honestly I can't wait to walk into that country club tomorrow with the prettiest date at the dance."

Y/N rolls her eyes and smacks my arm lightly "Stop!" she blushed.

After dinner Mrs. Ottomano measures my neck and quickly got to work making me a matching tie to y/n's dress as she and I sat on the stoop. The radio plays This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) by Natalie Cole.

"Y/N?" I said.

"Hm?" she hummed as she sways to the song.

"Thanks again for being my date," I said.

She looks at me. A smile on her face as she put a hand on my cheek.

"No te preocupes Luis," she said. (Don't worry, Luis) "Gracias por invitarme al baile de graduación." (Thank you for inviting me to the prom)

I smiled and pressed a kiss to her forehead "No hay problema,” I said.

"What is the theme for your prom?" she asked.

"Dancing Through The Decades," I said.

She smiles "Better then Under the Sea," she rolls her eyes.

I chuckled as Mrs. Ottomano came outside "Luis please stand," she said as we turned to see her have a tie matching y/n's dress right down to lace overlay which she had expertly cut the flowers out sewing them to the purple tie in her hands. I stood as did y/n and she took the tie from Mrs. Ottomano. She faces me before she wraps it around my neck. Her eyes meeting mine as she ties it.

"Perfect. Claude. This tie is amazing!" she said looking at Mrs. Ottomano.

"Thanks y/n," she said "But Luis. You best head home. Even though it's half a day for you. You still have school. Shoo," she waves me off the stoop.

"But Claude!" said y/n.

"Just because you're not going to school. You still have to go to bed. Come on," she put an arm around her shoulders and steered her into the house. She waved to me over her shoulder. Both of us not wanting to say good night but was forced to.

The next day... June 4, 1999

Y/N stood on the porch as Angelo, Bianca and I went to school in Angelo's car. She waved goodbye to us. Angelo, myself and the rest of Class of 2000 were getting out half a day so we could get ready for prom. My pops was picking up y/n's corsage for me and my boutonniere for y/n at the florist while Mrs. Ottomano took y/n to get her hair and nails done.

Around three that afternoon Pops and I headed next door. My mom and step dad, older sister and two younger brothers had arrived and were already at the Ottomano's residence. I climbed the stairs in my tux and I was about to knock on the door when Bianca opened the door.

"Come on in, Luis. Wait until you see y/n. She's a knock out," she grins brightly as the music from y/n's favorite movie Dirty Dancing is on as Be My Baby by The Ronettes was playing. I chuckled. As Bianca stepped aside allowing Pops and I in. Pops was ahead of me and he let out a low whistle.

"Looking sharp Ange," he said as I stepped into the living room. Angelo and his girlfriend Ginger was there but y/n wasn't there. I looked around.

"Don't worry Dude. The strap on y/n's dress popped. Ma is fixing it," said Angelo as the sewing room door opened and my mouth dropped as y/n walked out.

Pops chuckled "You're gonna catch flies son," he said as he pushed my mouth closed.

"Hi Luis," smiled y/n as Bianca was right y/n was a knock out.

"The words you're looking for are Hi y/n," said Bianca.

I looked at her because I must have been standing there like a absolute moron.

"What?" I said before shaking my head "I mean Hi y/n. You look you look wow," I said silently cursing myself.

Y/N giggles as Pops hands her my boutonniere and me y/n's wrist corsage.

"Gracias Señor Martínez," said y/n.

"Right. Thanks pops," I said taking the clam shell package the corsage was in. I swallow as I fumble to open the clam shell. Bianca took pity on me taking the clam shell and opening it. She held it to me. I nervously took the corsage from the package and y/n offers her wrist as Bianca took the boutonniere. I am not even aware of the pictures or video being taken as my eyes were solely on y/n.

"Thank you Luis," said y/n as Bianca hands y/n my boutonniere and y/n stepped forward and placed the flower onto the lapel of my jacket and pinning it to it.

"Uh," I said as my brain fails to remember two simple words.

"Thank you," whispered Bianca.

"Right. Thank you y/n," I said.

Bianca rolled her eyes before shaking her head as she stepped out of the way so pictures could be taken of Angelo, Ginger, our friends Charlie and his date Meg, Michael and his girlfriend Lucy and Michael's twin sister Michaela and her boyfriend and Lucy's twin Dale. After pictures the limo bus picked us up and we headed to the country club.

Brookhaven County Club

I walked into the country club with y/n on my arm. People milled about but heads turned when we walked in. I see people whisper and point as we walked to the class president and vice president sitting at a table with our class advisor and my football coach. Coach Hayden smiles at me as I hand him the tickets Love Man by Otis Redding was already blaring from the ballroom.

"Coach Hayden this is y/n y/l/n. Y/N this is my football coach, Coach Hayden," I said introducing them to one another.

"Hi Coach Hayden," said y/n with a smile and Coach Hayden extended his hand and shook y/n's hand.

"Pleasure to meet you y/n. I have heard a lot about you from Luis," he said as Do You Love Me by The Contours started and y/n grins.

"LUIS. Please can we go dance?" she squeaks.

"Of course," I said as we walked into the ballroom and I immediately lead her to the dance floor where couples were already dancing and she took me by the hand and we began dancing.

"Follow me!" she said over the music. I did as I was told and she began moving and my body naturally followed.

I was already having a blast and we had only been there for about ten minutes. Other couples watched as y/n did her best impression of Penny on the dance floor and I did my best Johnny Castle but was failing miserably.

Present Day....

'Luis it did not happen like that!' said y/n 'I was not dancing like Penny and you sure the hell weren't trying to dance like Johnny Castle. Tell Demi and Matt the truth.'

'Okay. Okay. Let's go back to us entering the country club,' I said.

'Better,' said y/n.

'Okay we entered Brookhaven County Club.'

"It looks like we were one of the first to arrive," I said as classmates were hanging around the closed doors of the ballroom. Our class advisors, my football coach, Coach Hayden and his fiancee Miss. Stanley were sitting at a long table collecting the tickets.

"Coach," I said as I hand him the tickets "This is y/n y/l/n. My best friend," I said with a smile.

"Pleasure to meet you y/n. Luis has told me so much about you. Nice to have a face to the stories I have heard," he said. Y/N blushes lightly.

"You told your coach about me?" she said.

"I mean he asked me who I was bringing," I said.

"Martínez I have been hearing about her for the past three years," said Coach Hayden. I laughed nervously as I looked at y/n with a sheepish grin "I mean I had to tell everyone about my best friend."

Y/N smiles and kissed my cheek.

"Practically every one knows about you too," she said with a small blush "I mean you're plastered all over my locker any way."

I chuckled "Bye coach," I said as we walked towards the photographer where everyone was already lined up.

"Martínez who's the chick?" asked Kelvin Brody one of my bullies who had decided when I first moved back to the states I was an easy target for his cruelty "And why is she with you?" His eyes roamed y/n's body and I felt her shrink into my side.

I squeeze her hip and she gave me a grateful smile.

"Baby. Leave this loser and come to the dance with me," said Kelvin.

"I-I don't think so," she said "I'm here with Luis. He is my date," she moved closer to me.

"How much is he paying you?" he asked reaching out to touch y/n and she smacked his hand away from her.

"Nothing!" she said "Luis is my best friend. I'm here for him."

Kelvin smirks "Baby. He won't show you a good time. I will though," he grabbed her arm causing her to yelp.

Present Day....

"Please tell me you dropped that asshole where he stood!" said Demi.

"Well," I said looking at y/n.

"I did," she said.

Matt chuckled "Why can I just picture that?" he said.

"Can we get back to the story now?" asked Demi.

"Where was I?" I said.

"Kelvin," said Matt.

"Oh right. Kelvin....

Kelvin grabbed y/n's arm. She yelped and tugged her arm from his grasp.

"Don't touch me!" she said as Kelvin stepped towards her.

"I don't think you un-" he was stopped short by y/n slapping the taste clean out of his mouth. He held his jaw before advancing on y/n "You stupid little bitch!" I stepped in front of y/n.

"Lay a hand on her and I will kill you where you stand," I said.

Coach Hayden came over and hooked Kelvin's arm "Brody. You're gone," he said.

"But coach the bitch hit me and Martinez threatened me!"

"After you put your hands on her. I was sitting right there Brody. I saw and heard the entire thing," said Coach Hayden.

"Oh come on Coach!" said Kelvin as Coach Hayden escorted him from Brookhaven.

Y/N looks at me with a smile before she pressed a kiss to my cheek "Thank you for protecting me Luis," she said as she hugs me. I hugged her back. I felt that damn lightning bolt again. I swallowed hard as the photographer called us as the doors to the ballroom opened music was already playing as we stepped onto the backdrop.

The photographer's assistant arranged us "And in three-two-one," said the photographer before snapping our picture. And like any picture we blinked after the photo was taken. We waited for Angelo, Ginger, Charlie and Meg. As Michael, Lucy, Michaela and Dale had already taken their pictures and they were waiting by the ballroom entrance when we got our picture.

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The prom was in full swing. The music was definitely eclectic. Everything from the fifties to new stuff on the radio. Y/N and I are currently dancing to a song Ginger had requested I Always Was Your Girl by Jennifer Love Hewitt. It wasn't slow slow or fast paced but it was definitely a hold your dance partner in your arms type song. She smiled up at me.

"Let me guess the others were trying to give you two a hint?" asked Matt.

"Yes. But neither one of us had a clue until last week when Angelo actually admitted it to us when we he visited to help pack my place," said y/n.

"Okay. Now back to the story!" said Demi "And by the way. You're telling us the stories of the senior proms too."

I looked at y/n who just laughed shaking her head.

"Where was I?" I asked.

"Dancing," said Matt.

Y/N's POV

We had been at the prom and on the dance floor for about an hour and half when they actually served dinner. We sat at a table with Angelo, Ginger, Charlie, Meg, Michael, Lucy, Michaela and Dale. They had the most delicious steak and chicken. Just like we have done since forever Luis and I split our meat because we had the same sides. I had chicken. Luis had the steak. Anyway...

Damian's POV

"So y/n. Ange tells us that you have known Luis since you were two were ten," said Ginger as Just One Look by Doris Troy played as we dined.

"Yeah. I used to come visit Angie's grandparents who were my great aunt Francesca and great uncle Salvatore and well Señor Martínez had been their neighbor since I was like four or five. I started visiting by myself when I was six. Well uncle Sal would come pick me up and we would fly back together. Then my fourth year of visiting Luis had moved back to the states. Aunt Fran was babysitting him while his dad worked," she explained as the DJ plays As Long As You Love Me by Backstreet Boys "and that's how we met and well," she smiled at me.

"We became instant best friends. She helped me with my English. I taught her Spanish," I said "The summer of 1993 was amazing. Six years later not much has changed except for our height."

Y/N rolled her eyes "Dweeb," she playfully teased as I smile at her. I saw how the others at the table exchange smirks and she did too "What is with the smirks?"

Angelo looked at the others "Nothing cuz. Just it's sweet."

"What?" asked y/n.

"Yours and Luis friendship," said Michaela "Even though the guys think otherwise," she explained.

"What's that supposed to mean?" asked y/n looking at Michaela.

"The guys are convinced Luis has a massive crush on you," she said. I felt like I had been hit by bus and it backed up only to run over me again.

Y/N giggles nervously "That's silly. We are friends. Close friends. Like brother and sister," she said looking at me "Right Luis?"

"Right," I said as I caught Angelo and Charlie out of the corner of my eye smirking.

"I think ya'll read to much into things," said y/n as the waiters took our plates and the dance floor was reopened.

I grabbed y/n's hand "Come on let's dance," I said pushing my chair back as the DJ plays I Only Want To Be With You by Dusty Springfield.

"Yeah," said y/n as she laced her fingers with mine as she and I head to the dance floor.

"I'm sorry about my friends," I said.

"Don't worry about it Luis," she said as What a Girl Wants by Christina Aguilera began "Angie is an idiot. I don't know the others but Angie is an idiot. Has been since we were kids. I know we're best friends. We always will be. We know we will be there for each other through thick and thin."

I smiled as we danced "Exactly," I said as the DJ played Take My Breath Away by Berlin. I swallowed hard as I took y/n into my arms. She smiles as she wrapped her arms around my neck. I placed my hands on her hips and we began swaying. Our eyes met and once again it felt like being hit by a bolt of lightning. My expression must've changed as y/n looked at me with concern.

"You okay?" she asked.

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Present Day.....

"I in fact was not okay. That was definitely the day I began to realize my feelings were a lot stronger for you than just being my best friend," I said looking at y/n.

She blushed softly "Same. I just sorta kept denying it. Hell Laura and Melissa called me out on it. They knew I had feelings even before senior year when you came to our prom. But obviously it was deny, deny, deny. I couldn't be in love with my best friend because he didn't feel the same way," she said shaking her head "To think of all the years we wasted because the both of us were to scared to admit the truth."

I nod "We could've just celebrated our twenty fifth anniversary this past summer had we just been honest with each other in the summer of 1999."

She laughed lightly "Well we were two dumb kids who didn't want to throw away our friendship even though our relationship would have had a strong foundation because of the mutual love and respect we had already built between us."

"I still can't believe you two took this long to finally admit it to one another," said Demi shaking her head.

"You and me both," I said "but now."

"Now. We have finally been honest and nothing will ever come between us," smiles y/n as she caressed my cheek.

"Por siempre y para siempre. Eres el amor de mi vida y/n," I said leaning in kissing her lips. (Forever and ever. You're the love of my life y/n.)

"Eres el amor de mi vida Luis. Te amaré por siempre jamás," she said. (You are the love of my life, Luis. I'll love you forever and ever)

I smiled at y/n and she back at me.

"Okay. Now what about the senior proms," said Demi handing us the two frames of our respective proms.

We looked at each other and then at the pictures.

"Now?" asked y/n looking at Demi.

"Duh!" she said sitting on the love seat across from our sofa.

We both laughed "I guess we will start with mine," I said "Since that was first."

Tag List: @eringobragh420 @magicalbuttertarts @madhatterbri @keekee-23 @loki69zowens @caramara3 @bloodlinesbabe93 @miss-kuki-nz @surdelcielo

[gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan]

Survival

Previous =-= Next

Author's note: Thank you @sleepyfan-blog, for letting me borrow Cedric. :)

Summary: Claude survives, and panics, finds Cedric and calms down. Somewhat.

Warnings: Panic ... Let me know if I need to add more.

Tagged: @barn-anon, @bleedingichorhearts, @c-u-c-koo-4-40k, @egrets-not-regrets, @kit-williams

Tagged: @sleepyfan-blog, @whorety-k

Claude had been very grateful that Cedric had managed to find him, trying to use Psykery on this planet had been very difficult and had nearly took more energy than he had left in his body. As it was he'd been informed by a fussing Cedric that he'd been in a Coma for several months, recovering from Warp Overuse, while his body's wounds had been slow to heal, as for some reason, one of the Psyker cousins, a Librarian said that even while in such a deep state of sleep, for some reason his Psyker powers were still slightly active and in use doing… something.

Claude hadn't a clue what it was that they were still being used for and had told Claude and the elder Cousin as such. He had been filled with un-Astartes-like emotions when he'd first woken up and seen strange First-born cousins surrounding him and his first thought was to find somewhere to hide.

It had taken hours of searching to find him as he'd found the nearest shadow and had sunk into it using the shadows to hide and be nearly intangible and had only revealed himself when he'd found Cedric. He hadn't meant to jump scare and had clung to his brother-now-cousin fellow Primaris and had half tried to drag him into the shadows to help hide his fellow Primaris Marine.

It had taken Cedric a while, longer than Claude cared to admit, to have been calmed down properly and actually listen to what he was saying. After learning where, and most importantly when they were, and that these older cousins were not as… as harsh as the older cousins that they know in their time. He'd stared at Cedric with surprise, as Cedric explained what sorts of punishments, they used, and what punishments were Not Allowed.

"Not even a minor beating?" Claude had asked quietly, and almost disbelieving, "The- the Captain's and Chaplains don't … aren't… supposed to do the floggings and whippings?"

He had listened to Cedric's response, "I mean… you're an Apothecary, so of course the rules are different for you, they don't want to break you, so they are softer on you… normal battle brothers have to take your punishments and the punishments of are more specialized brothers. For we are to soak up the damage and are the hammer to batter our enemies to break them."

What Cedric and Claude don't know is Scout Sargent Ash'val had located the pair of Primaris Marines and had been quietly listening in. He was not likely what he was hearing from the pair of Primaris Marines.

"… I am starting to believe them," Cedric says. "At least in regards to the punishments that the dole out. I know that the Salamandrs tend to be soft, but this is primarily an Imperial Fist base."

"Chores aren't a harsh punishment," Claude says thoughtfully, "Although being stuck in the base for months without being able to go out is… deeply unfortunate. I'm… sorry that I asked you to break out of punishment to free me. If there is any way I can ease the… the extra punishment that you get will for disobeying then I will."

Cedric has a stubborn look on his face and starts to say something, "No! I asked for your help- and well. Perhaps they might be more understanding if they knew it was a life-or-death situation."

"… I don't have armor or a vox on me Claude," Cedric says quietly, hesitantly, "They will ask how I knew where you were or… or how you contacted me. When I don't have even a primitive radio on me."

"… I've always been able to contact you if we are on the same planet," Claude says curling in on himself. "Just.. a Primaris thing. Yes. That's what we can tell them. It's… true? After a fashion."

"We need to get you back to the infirmy," Cedric says firmly.

Claude grumbles but nods and leans into Cedric who starts to guide him back to the med-bay, Ash'val had stepped back and out of the sightline of the younger pair of Space Marines and had sent the other space marines who'd still be searching for the wounded younger Raven Guard that he's been found and being returned to the med-bay. Also, he'd learned more about the Primaris, or at least how their First-Born brothers and cousins treat them, and it does not fill him with good emotions, and he wonders why they are treated so poorly, when they are such good, loyal, and a bit too obedient, younger brothers and cousins.

[haru-natsuka]

The fate (Anastacius x Female Reader x Claude)

Chapter 4 : An angel

Pain was not something he was not familiar with whether it is in physical or emotional form. He was hated by the empress and his own father. His bestowed name was proof of it. His body was hurting so much and whatever he tried to do, it just never went away. This is it, maybe his body had finally given up to fight and yet he received help to let him survive. He could barely open his eyes but he recognised that radiant light shine in front of him. Claude, for the first time, witnessed an angel...

Female reader will be named as Celestrial

I know it is Athy but let's pretend for this to be Claude😌

After three days Celestial passed out, only then did she regain consciousness. Ethan, her personal bodyguard did convey to her that the crown prince kept on visiting her every day as whenever he had free time, he would stay by her side the entire time. Might be out of responsibility as she did help Claude before. He even wanted to call for the royal physician but Ethan never let him, which was a great decision as no one should know the power she held. It might be used as her weakness one day.

Celestial woke up and the only person accompanying her was her bodyguard and the crown prince still yet not paid her a visit due to his tight schedule for the day. It was not like she wanted to meet him anyway as she desired to do the opposite. She wanted to avoid the endless question about her power or what she did for Claude. No, she never wanted to share the information at all. She did save the second prince out of humanity and sympathy so the other side should only be grateful right?

With a new set of floral dress that just reached up to her knees, the princess went to the garden filled with a field of white flowers which happens to be part of the view of her room. She laid down on the ground where the height of the flower was enough to cover her tiny body. Somehow, the scent from the white flowers were followed by the scent of serenity. Having time for yourself sometimes was just a good feeling to have. Celestial closed her eyes to appreciate the cozy warmth of the sun more which unconsciously drove her to the dreamland.

Although the princess fell asleep, she still had a high sense of her surroundings. Being born royal just turns you to be alert of your surroundings in case danger would approach even if Ethan would always be around her. It is just better to be as careful and cautious as possible. Therefore, when she heard a rustling sound near her, her pair of violet eyes immediately opened, only to find someone was staring back at her.

The intruder bore the same crystal blue eyes of the royals as Prince Anastacius. Celestial almost thought it was the second prince if it was not for the braid hair. The doe eyes of the person in front of her keep staring back at her like she was scanning her entire being. Was there another illegitimate child of the emperor? An abandoned princess perhaps?

"Angel..." The child whispers quietly as her hands reach out for Celestial's face. Her fingertips caress the cheek part lightly as she admires the said angel who appeared to be around the same age as her. As if she was finally out of her trance, she pulled back her hand in flustered.

"I'm sorry for being so rude. Forgive me"

"It's fine though. I don't mind, princess" Celestial sat up so the girl had no need to look down at her and yet as their gaps became closer, the little girl tried to back away from her. It looked like she wanted to run away from Celestial but at the same time she wanted to stay. This little girl had low self esteem and there was only a way to approach someone like this.

"Your braids look so pretty. Does the maid do it for you?" Complimenting someone's appearance was the best way to boost the confidence of others. Celestial compliment was never a lie as indeed she admired the little girl's cute looks. She always loved anything that was cute looking in her eyes and this girl was one of them.

"No, it's my bro-" The little girl averted her eyes to the side as she fiddled with her fingers while trying to communicate with Celestial. Her words were cut short when another intruder came into the place. The person who the Selene's princess tried to avoid from.

"Claude, you are running too fast and it's good to see you again, Princess Celestrial." The crown princess lightly jogged to join the two.

"Same goes for me, Prince Anastacius." Celestial greeted the prince back out of politeness as in truth, she just wanted to hide herself or her effort to avoid the prince today would be in vain. She could only hope he would not mention it at all. The little girl from before hid herself behind Anastacius as she peeked her head a bit to look at Celestial.

"Now, Claude. Dont be shy to greet the princess. She is kind, I assure you." Anastacius tried to persuade his little brother to introduce himself by changing the position of him and his brother so his brother would be in front of him.

"This is your brother? I mistaken him for your sister for a while there, Prince Anastacius"

"Is it because of his hair? I played with my mana before and tried to style it but somehow it turned into braids and princess, in this kingdom there is only both of us. Claude, I will change your hair back to normal." Anastacius explained the situation.

"No, I don't want to. I would like to keep it." Claude distanced himself with his brother a bit so his older brother could not change his new hair style.

"Don't you hate it? You even run away because you are mad at me."

"Not anymore..." Bashfully he uttered the words while sneekly glances back at the princess.

"Let it undone by itself then. Now, Claude, introduce yourself to the princess."

"Greetings, Princess Celestrial. I'm the second prince of Obelian...." There was a long pause as the little brother was contemplating his decision to tell her his name. He was very embarrassed of his own name as it did not share the meaning as great as Anastacius, instead his name meant something to be looked down to, crippled.

"...Claude de alger Obelia. Nice to meet you. You can just call me second prince" He chose to still let the princess know. Sooner or later should find out eventually his big brother even addressed him that before. However, he still did not want himself to be called by his name. Bad names like his should not be remembered after all, especially someone as radiant as her.

"I'm sorry if this sounds impolite but may I call you by your name, Your Highness? You have such a great name as in my country, your name has the meaning of strong willed." Celestial was not dumb to notice Claude reluctant in mentioning his name so she just encouraged him that his name was wonderful by stating the truth. 

"Look Claude. I told you, your name has a great meaning!" Anastacius tried to motivate his brother more.

"Uhhh...sure, the princess can call me Claude." The redness on his cheeks brightened more as he was shy and it might become worse as time goes by.

"Thank you, Prince Claude" Celestial just wanted to pinch that cute chubby cheek of the second prince. She was glad she could be a help during the difficult time for the prince. A feeling of protectiveness filled her heart the more she looked at the boy.

@fluffy-koalala

Chapter 3 << Previous, Next >> Chapter 5

[lovely-lauren-arts]

more questions (if I'm annoying you pls tell me)

1.) how are you cats?

2.) how would your characters react to seeing a weird middle school boy (like the kind who yell "skibidi toilet rizz" with no repercussions. the fucking annoying kind.)

3.) how would freddie react to someone giving him a gift (like a plushie, flowers etc.)

4.) not a question but older dolly looks like she would smoke weed

5.) again, not a question but we share a birthday month (my birthday is June 7th and I will be 13 this year🔥🔥)

6.) how would isabella react to seeing this image (I will haunt you with this image)

1. They're good. Smudge won't stop headbutting my hand 😭

2.

Beatrice - Would walk away.

Isabella - Would tell him to stop being annoying.

Madeline - Would give him a disgusted look before walking away.

Daisy - Would attack him if he wouldn't stop.

Penelope - Would just stare at him to make him uncomfortable.

Elizabeth - Would walk away.

Audrey - Would stay quiet, hoping he'll go away.

Oliver - Would frown at him and tell him to stop.

Claude - Would tell him to calm down but if the boy wouldn't, Claude would get frustrated with him.

Catherine - Would think about killing him but instead would act unhinged to scare him away.

Sophia - Would become upset and go away.

Chester - Would tell him to go away.

Dolly - Would tell him to stop but if he doesn't, she'll threaten to punch him.

Kev - Would push him away and tell him to leave.

Freddie - Would be twice as annoying and try to fight him.

3. He'd be grateful but he's not used to getting gifts so he wouldn't know how to react. He'd keep it somewhere safe. If it was food, he'd eat it all instantly.

4. She wouldn't but I understand why you'd say that.

5. Happy (early) birthday. Jfc I'm a decade older than you 😭 make the most of being young.

6. She'd be very confused and a little disturbed.

[fireemblems24]

Golden Wildfire Ch 14

Almost done guys. I can stick with it.

STORY

Oh no, The Empire is in danger. Anyways . . .

They're all shocked Edelgard is asking for help because she's putting her in debt to them.

Haha, they're considering just leaving her there and letting the Empire die. Lorenz came up with it. Based.

I know Claude will go bail her out, which is really stupid for a guy who claims he wants to end the war.

So . . . how does killing Rhea and sparing Edelgard cause the least amount of bloodshed? I knew that's what was going to happen, but it makes no sense. Claude even admitted he knows that Edelgard doesn't give a shit, she wants to conquer Rhea or no Rhea.

I really fail to see how on earth this is ending in 2 chapters. Unless Edelgard is so grateful to Claude she just gives up her ambitions? And Dimitri is equally OOC also suddenly gives a shit about what Claude thinks??

I've actually LOVED how they're written Edelgard and Dimitri in Hopes so far, and if GW ruins that with its shit writing I'm gonna be pissed.

Edelgard better not turn into some soft sissy who is all "oh, you saved me, Claude, now I'm going to play nice and make big eyes at you! Now that Rhea's dead and you did something nice, I'm going to give up the most core part of my character." Double gross if it's implied that she's flustered by his good looks.

And Dimitri better not not be pissed off that Claude invaded him for no reason and be like "You were so right, I wanted Rhea gone this whole time, thank you for saving me from her, please ignore Sylvain stewing in the corner, he'll just get over that you murdered his dad, just like I suddenly don't care how you murdered my citizens!"

If that happens, I'm calling this Claude's bizarre fanfic where he thinks his masterminded Edelgard and Dimitri so hard that now they're both hard for him no matter how OOC that makes them or how stupid Claude's been this whole time.

CAMP/SIDE MAPS

Haha, Shamir doesn't want to help the Empire. She wants revenge against them for the war with Dagda lol.

I don't think Holst has had an interesting thing to say in this entire game.

Oh yeah, I forgot. In GW and SB we're saving Bernie's father and helping him maintain religious power. Only in AG is he the enemy we're replacing. I swear, did nobody look at this and wonder if they made the Blue Lions unambiguously the only good guys?

Haha, right after I wrote this, some NPC was like wtf are we doing putting an Imperial noble in charge of the Monastery and religion?

Meanwhile, Lorenz is like, if we just let Edelgard die, the war ends right. But they must go save her because they're former classmates! For, like, a month! And Claude's like, Dimitri is too. And then crickets. I swear to God GW is borderline self-aware of how reaching and desperate the writing is to have Claude want to join the "I want to suck Edelgard's toes" gang for no logical reason.

Ouch, someone just compared Claude to Hubert. Like, I love Hubert, but he is NOT someone I want to be compared to.

I forget how boring GW is to play. Lorenz takes no damage from anything, so I just mash buttons. He isn't particularly strong either, so he's not nearly as fun to play as Dimitri and Hubert are with their ridiculous strength and magic stats, respectively.

So if I ever replay GW (lol, sure /s), I would def not pick Lorenz again. Lysithea seems like a way more fun character more suited for my play style but she's too far behind with class unlocks and etc . . .

Haha, Shez is like "if I ended up on another side, they would've been suspicious of my powers and thought I was an enemy" - side-eyeing Edelgard and SB.

Lamo, where did Claude get the idea that the church doesn't like people from other places or that aren't religious? Last time I checked, they didn't care?

Lamo, Shez is saying she might just leave Claude when the war ends. Same, Shez, same.

I had to fight Gustave :( And after that Sylvain :(

Guys, I'm feeding Claude recipes he dislikes. I've run out of supports to grind this round so . . .

I did the same to Holst too, because fuck you too, Holst

I'm giving my merc whistle to Lorenz. He basically did everything this route. And ohhhhh, he's right in front of Claude and Hilda too, haha. That means they're going to watch me give Lorenz a present and none for them.

And now to dump every stat boost on Lorenz too. I literally use no one else unless I absolutely have too. Hubert and Dimitri will get the same treatment. Probably also the 2 getting my merc whistle too. Which is hilarious since Hubert is pretty openly hostile to Shez.

SHEZ & CLAUDE A

It's funny. In SB, no one trusts Shez. In GW, Shez doesn't trust Claude. In AG, Shez . . . yep.

Wait, whut? Shez is like "we need to end the church to end the war." And Claude is like "right, because they they can try something again." My brother in Sothis, what the fuck? Did he just forget that Edelgard started the war? Rhea didn't do shit.

Also, didn't Claude say earlier he knows the church is just an excuse for Edelgard to make a land grab? Did he magically forget that?

SHEZ & BALTHUS B

Don't remember if I saw this yet.

Balthus wants to make a bet on battle. Shez doesn't want to.

Balthus likes to live on the edge and adding a bet makes battle more fun. Shez disagrees.

SHEZ & HAPI B

Still don't remember if I saw this or not. But it's another support about Shez's mysterious origins that go absolutely no where.

And I have a strong suspicion that we won't actually learn anything about who Shez really is unless her mom is like Arundel or something.

I think I may have seen this before. But Shez has more than one support like this so . . .

CLAUDE & MARIANNE A

Weird. They only have 1 support and its A.

Marianne gets a letter that implies that he wants Marianne to rule House Edmund and she's intimidated by it.

Claude shares that he worries too.

Claude says Marianne needs more resolve.

Sorry, that was boring as fuck.

CLAUDE & LYSITHEA A

Lysithea has a message from her father, who's taken maybe the worst beating in this game.

Her father doesn't want to complain, but to thank him for ending TWSITD chaos.

Poor House Ordelia really does get the shit end of the stick.

Claude is worry that Lysithea works too hard.

Lysithea doesn't really listen.

CLAUDE & LEONIE B

Their only support.

The crops of the territories that are at war are suffering because armies are trampling fields.

Common people are mad at Claude because of the battle making them starve.

Glad this game is acknowledging, even a little, how it's poor people who get screwed over the most when nobles bicker.

Leonie admits she could care less about this war. Which just make her not being in AG (so far) weirder. Since she's probably one of the one who cares the least.

This is more interesting than I thought it was going to be, because it's about how the commoners suffer in war, and how Claude needs a common born perspective. So that makes Edelgard the only one who never asks common born people what they want - and the one thinking she has the right to decide everything for them.

CLAUDE & CONSTANCE C

Claude is interested in Constance's experiments

Constance invented a spell that can change hair color and style, which Claude wants to use to escape but not to be her first test subject

She gives him a hard and sharp style, like literally - he complains, she's not happy

I don't know if she turned it back or not, if she didn't I'm tempted to not view their B so Claude is stuck with silly, awful hair for his final chapters because then his looks will match his clown behavior

HILDA & IGNATZ B

Hilda doesn't recognize Ignatz without his glasses on. So . . . she's an idiot?

Ignatz is basically blind without glasses, yet forgot where he put them. So . . . he's an idiot too?

Hilda thinks he's hot without his glasses. I . . . question her taste.

IGNATZ & HAPI C

Hapi finds his sketch book and there's a picture of her with cats in there, and she's disturbed that someone drew her without telling her

She figured out that it's him

She's mad he lied, but liked the picture

And . . . the Chicago Carolina game is more entertaining than that was (who may be the 2 worst teams in the NFL, for those who don't know)

SHEZ & IGNATZ A

Aw, that's sweet of Ignatz. He's like, we talk too much about me, talk about you!

And Shez teases him about a crush, lamo.

Shez only has 2 dream options: I don't know or easy going mercenary life

Ignatz asks Shez to be a bodyguard ones he's done being a knight and going after his dreams

Shez says she'll charge a lot lamo

Claude & Constance B

Oh, right, the hair magic stuff.

Constance doesn't appreciate his lack of enthusiasm

She turned his hair frizzy and uneven, lamo - like a bird's nest, and honestly, deserved Claude, you've sucked this route

He has a beard too

LORENZ & IGNATZ A

Their only support, weird.

Lorenz didn't make much of Ignatz when they meant, but now is impressed.

The improvement it because Ignatz is painting in his free time, helping his mental health

Lorenz feels bad because he realizes Ignatz wants to be an artist, not a knight, like he assumed

Ingatz is still grateful towards Lorenz for giving him a purpose after the school closed and he felt directionless

RAPHAEL & MARIANNE B

Bummed they only have 1 support. I like their chain in Houses.

Marianne can't get a horse to the stable bc it's sick (the horse told her, Raphael doesn't seem to care that a horse talked to Marianne)

Raphael offers to get the horse to the stable by putting it in a cart

He lifted it, Marianne is impressed, but now her horse can get the medicine and rest needed

Dumb horse ate bad fruit, honestly, accurate, they're all secretly pigs in horse-shaped bodies

Raphael . . . also eats rotten food. So, I guess Dimitri has competition for who has the most iron stomach

See, this was cute too. Marianne just feels naturally open with him

RAPHAEL & LEONIE A

They're out of arrows and surrounded by wolves

I think Raphael beat them back with her bow

He credits her for making such a strong bow (it didn't break)

So now Leonie will keep making bows until there's one Raphael can't break, and Raphael will keep working on muscles so he can keep breaking them

MARIANNE & YURI B

Oh, God, Yuri's always so mean to people in the beginning of support chains. I wonder how on earth this is going to go . . .

Yuri takes her off guard and asks questions, which just makes her more guarded and feel judged.

Marianne assumes he hates animals and herself. Because she saw Yuri glaring at her once. Girl, you have issues, but I love you.

Understandably, Yuri's a bit confused.

Marianne keeps assuming things are her fault and apologizing, and Yuri keeps getting more and more annoyed until she runs off.

A lot of this support felt pretty random, but let's see where A goes.

MAIN BATTLE

This battle is titled . . . salvation. You know, that may be the most clever bit of writing in GW so far (as in the ONLY clever writing)

Haha, Edelgard is surrounded by the Kingdom and Rhea.

Even Holst is like, are you sure about this Claude?

I really don't understand the logic of rescuing Edelgard if Claud doesn't want war. Like, Claude acknowledged that Edelgard only used Rhea as an excuse for expansionism. He knows she's just going to find another excuse for war, so all he's doing is making her enemies weaker.

Ok, that's enough. I forget that applying any sort of logic to this plot line is pointless.

Cut scene is cool though. Lamo, is this like the 5th time Edelgard needed someone to rescue her in this game? She looked really pathetic in cut scenes in this game. Like, I don't even like her, and I'm annoyed because one of the things I did like was her being a bit of a badass, not always needing saving from Shez, Byleth, from assassins all the time, etc . . .

Guys, there's a save Monica side quest. Should I just . . . not? You know what? I'm going to have fun with this. I want to see what happens.

Fuck, Ingrid appeared :(

And now they want me to save Bernie's dad. This chapter is really "rescue the most fucking annoying characters" and "kill the best ones."

Thank FUCK, she retreated this time. I wouldn't been livid if they made me kill her twice for no reason.

OMG, again, lamo, Edelgard is useless this chapter. She keeps getting caught. That's the 3rd time in 1 chapter she's needed to get her ass saved by Claude and co.

Now I have to fight Dedue :( He's better not fucking die. This route isn't worth it. Edelgard called him Dimitri's most loyal retainer though.

Oh, thank God, he retreated.

Now I'm going to have to fight Dimitri, I'm sure :( I'm really fucking glad Lorenz can't take damage. I'd be shitting myself otherwise. He better retreat too.

Why can't we let Edelgard die, Claude? Wouldn't that fix all the problems?

Oh, Rhea! Fighting Rhea will actually be a little cool, since you never get to see her or use her.

Dimitri retreated at least.

WTF Claude? "I'm just determined to see what the world would look like without you." Idk, maybe Almyra??? The writers really gave Claude nothing with that line lamo.

Took Rhea out. She retreated too.

Now Byleth is here and I think she's dying for good this time. Feel a bit bad about not recruiting her. Claude doesn't deserve Byleth's support on this route, but she doesn't deserve to die either.

Cut scene time. I wonder what's considered more cannon, recruiting Byleth or not?

Also, isn't it thematic that you kill Sothis on routes where you oppose Rhea and side with Edelgard?

Arval's way too happy about this, lamo. Shez is bummed. Honestly, I think I ship Shez with Byleth the most.

Edelgard was so lame this chapter.

Claude tries rubbing it in Edelgard's face that she owes him, and she threatens not to honor the debt. Like, Claude, my boy, if this person is willing to turn on you because you teased her . . . that isn't an ally you want, but whatever.

Claude is like, can we not destroy Faergus. Edelgard's like, no.

"We never spared a thought for Dimitri's motivation." Uh, how about "stop killing my people you bloodthirsty idiots." Also, not surprised. These two really are idiots. They can't fathom why Dimitri's . . . defending himself.

Claude sounds so pathetic in this chapter. He's like, sooooo desperate to be like, remember I did you a favor, Edelgard, remember! Like she gives a single shit, lamo.

x

[deliverred]

After seeing old teammates - both Shamir and Claude - Hugh finds himself searching for the last member of the crew that the four had first assembled to take on the beasts some time back. He wants to ensure that Lukas is still alright, too, and when he spots the other still alive, Hugh lets out a sigh of relief that he didn't recognize he was holding in. "Hey, long time no see!" Hugh's...fairly bandaged up, but that doesn't stop him from trying to shake off any of Lukas' worries by giving him a wide grin. "I know you're doing better, but I'm still concerned about that bite."

Hugh gives Lukas an Energy Tonic! "The market said it'd be good for this kind of thing, so hopefully it'll ease up, yeah?" That said, Hugh knows that Lukas can handle it. He's handled Way worse injuries, and way worse monsters. But like. What if it gets infected, you know?

While he hadn't managed to make it through the supply run completely unscathed, it had gone better than previous missions. Still, considering some of their comrades had taken worse hits to help Mark and himself try to scrounge up as many supplies as they could, it does sort of burn as a failure in the back of his mind that he hadn't been of much help in combat.

Lukas doesn't see Hugh approach at first, but he does hear the relieved noise and turn to face him.

"Ah, Hugh, I suppose it has been a bit since we last spoke," he replies, red eyes taking in the bandages the other man is sporting. "Oh, are you quite sure you can't make use of this yourself...?" It looked like Hugh had been seen to by a healer or teammate already, but Lukas was still hesitant to take the medicine if the other might have need of it. "Considering his size, Fluffy was rather gentle with me; I assure you, the wound is healing well."

Still, it was a kind gesture that Hugh cared enough to set aside healing for him, so Lukas accepted the tonic with a grateful bow of his head.

"Thank you, Hugh. I'll make sure to put it to use. Should we not be side by side in the conflict that awaits us, I hope that you will fight to live and make it through so that we might have that game of cards we spoke of. Live, and make safe those you care for here."

[reunionatdawn]

My Analysis of the Best Paired Endings in 3H (Part 15: Cyril/Nobody)

Cyril: You must think I'm pretty weird, huh, Professor? I'm always on about Lady Rhea, and I'm not even from Fódlan. I bet most people around here think I'm kinda weird. But I'm real grateful for everything Lady Rhea's done for me. Byleth: I don't think it's wrong to live for another. Cyril: That's nice of you to say. Real nice. Thanks, Professor.

No, I don't dislike Cyril. In fact, sometimes it feels like I might have been the only person who actually liked all the characters in 3H. Cyril was just the odd one out, since he was left unpaired after I paired everyone else up. They all just had better paired endings with other people. And Cyril was actually the only character whose solo ending was more satisfying than his paired endings.

Seteth: While it is good to make peace with the past, it is also essential to look ahead to the future. What kind of future do you see for yourself? What can you do to work toward it? I would like you to think about what might make your future brighter. Cyril: I don't know if I understand you right. See, when Lady Rhea took me in, it was the first time I ever thought maybe I had a purpose. And I don't know what else I could wish for than that, ya know?

Most players apparently found it annoying that all he ever talked about was Rhea. But that was the point. Seteth always thought he was squandering his potential and told him that he had his whole life ahead of him. He didn't want him to feel indebted to Rhea, doing chores for the rest of his life.

Cyril: Lady Rhea, thank you…for everything.

Cyril's death quote in CF showed what a waste it was for him to die. Even Claude didn't want to make an enemy of Rhea if he had to make an enemy of Cyril. He was one of the few named characters you had to kill in GW, which made it feel like a betrayal of VW's values.

Cyril: I wanted to do so much more for Lady Rhea, but she wouldn't let me. She said I paid my dues already. More than I owed, she said. Told me to live for myself now… Byleth: What do you want to do? Cyril: I don't know. Up till now, she's all I've been living for. That's the way it's always been, so I don't have any good ideas about what I oughta do next. I've got nowhere else to go. Not even back to Almyra. Byleth: Why don't you stay here? Cyril: What am I supposed to do here? Can't stay when there's nothing for me to do. Byleth: So there's nothing you desire? Cyril: Desire? Huh… I don't know. Only thing I ever really wanted was to serve Lady Rhea. I guess that's what I want. Someone I can help. I don't think I can live my life just for me.

Much like with Rhea, the S-Support with Cyril really gave closure to his character arc. This was a conversation that needed to happen regardless of whether Byleth proposed afterward. if Rhea lives, she will tell him to live for himself. And that's exactly what Cyril needed to do. But he doesn't need to marry Byleth for that.

Cyril (Solo) Having lost his pretext of protecting Rhea, Cyril considered leaving the Church, but after being persuaded by those around him, he decided to participate in the reconstruction project of the monastery. Thanks to his dedicated efforts, several years later, the Officer's Academy resumed its operations. Among the new students gathered in the grand hall, Cyril could be seen, ready for a new beginning.

Cyril's solo ending perfectly completes his character arc, so it doesn't really matter if he isn't paired with anyone. It's okay that he can't live only for himself, because he can still help others. His moniker is "Limitless Potential". I think he absolutely has a bright future ahead of him, but I prefer it to remain a mystery. He still needs to experience his own school year at the Officer's Academy first.

[esylveon]

Day 2 of FE OC week! I have a list and brief explanation of Vivian and her major relationships!

I'm gonna shove em all under a cut again because I'm worried it's gonna be a little long lmao

Vivian and Vesper

(I do not have a portait drawn of Vesper, so please enjoy my little doodle of the two of them <3 )

Vesper Timurovna is Vivian's older half brother. Vesper was instilled with a deep fear of loosing his family after the death of his father and mother, so he cares deeply for Vivian and her ailment. He goes to any length to ensure her health and safety. Vivian looks up to and cares for Vesper. She often worries he pushes himself too hard, and over his inability to let people in.

Vivian and Hanneman

Hanneman is Vivian's mentor. She's beyond grateful for his wisdom and kindness about letting her work under him. It's also possible that she's allowed to work alongside him for the reason that the crest of Noa presents for her, but Hanneman's identifying machine tends to malfunction afterwards...

Vivian and Manuela

Vivian enjoys her time learning magic from Manuela. Oftentimes, when Vivian wants company, she will find Manuela just to listen to her opera stories and love life struggles. Though, once Manuela gets started on that, Vivian will tend to tune her out. She mostly just like the background noise as she works.

Vivian and Dimitri

When Vivian fled Adrestia, she sought refuge in Faerghus. Vesper found a job as a stable hand for the castle, and Vivian was allowed to live on the grounds with him. They lived that way for many years, eventually forming a friendship with Dimitri. Growing so close that Vivian came to see Dimitri as another brother. When the Tragedy of Duscur happened, Vivian and Vesper recognized some of the black mages from when they lived within the Empire, leaving Dimitri behind without so much as a word. She finds it hard to be around him now.

Vivian and Constance

Despite being cousins, Vivian doesn't have any particularly strong feelings towards Constance. They didn't see each other often enough for Vivian to form any close connections. Upon learning that Constance is alive after the fall of her house, Vivian wants to make a better effort to get to know her.

Minor Relationship footnotes

Vivian and Edelgard

Imperial Princess (Derogatory)

Vivian and Claude

Nosy pest (neutral)

Vivian and Dorothea

Knows of Dorothea from some of Manuela's stories. Happy to finally meet her.

Vivian and (Dedue/Sylvain/Felix/Ingrid)

No strong feelings. Happy they are there to support Dimitri after what he went through when she left.

[peterlorres21stcentury]

@noirgasmweetheart replied to your post “Yaaaay, Toady appreciation! 😊 I have to wonder if...”:

I'm positive that the "Casablanca" parallels are deliberate. Near the end there's a really obnoxious scene that rips off Bogie's moment of forcing the villain to officiate some documents to save the lady...but Burt Lancaster just looks like a preppy underwear model trying to be Bogart. It was very groan-inducing for me. Toady's Ugarte ripoff however was a delightful treat. Because it was still Peter Lorre in the role, not some generic pretty-boy.

​I'm still chuckling at "preppy underwear model" because you're not wrong. I'm re-watching the film now (this will be the third time?? And the first twenty minutes of plot are still rather opaque to my tiny brain). I think both leads, Burt and Corinne, are rather badly miscast. Corinne is beautiful and I think she had the beginnings of a good character but... how shall I put this delicately... she's kind of annoying?? Claude Rains really has no reason to humor her pathetic attempt at blackmail and I'm amazed she didn't get murdered at some point in this sleazy town for attempting it before. Not saying it's right, but she's taking a huge risk all the same.

Edited to add: hey stupid me, you forgot the first rule of old movie plots: if something doesn't make a lick of sense, the reason is censorship. They couldn't say that she was a prostitute looking to pick him up, so she """blackmailed""" him, wink wink. That's how I choose to interpret this, anyway.

Oh, and her enunciation is terrible and wildly distracting to me for some reason. I know I'm being unkind, but Hollywood was filled with international actors of all accents and fluency and none of them were this grating. It's like she's trying her damnedest not to sound French and failing miserably. I'm trying to put myself in the perspective of Burt Lancaster's dull character and wondering what on earth I would find compelling about her, apart from "wow, she's hot." Maybe that's all some losers men need, I guess.

Petition to re-write this whole movie to be about Toady and Martingale plotting to steal diamonds and/or kill Vogel, fuck everything else, don't need it.

[platonic-qpr-selfshipping]

13. “I don’t really want to get up. I’m so comfortable right now.” for whoever you think fits it best? :D (@eveningshards)

gsjsb THANK U FRIEND this was nice to go through but it also gave me more Claude thoughts than I was prepared to BXKSJSK *sigh* I love him your honor, thank you again and i hope this new week treats you nicely !

Helios stirred a little, probably because of the rays of sunlight that had started to get through the modest window. They unconsciously tried to stretch their arms, and the act made them notice the weight that was lying on one of them. Perhaps that woke them up better than any sunlight could ever do.

They got a bit closer to Claude's face, which took no effort. Their friend had been hiding on their chest all night long after a bad day, so his body still remained close— close enough to have an arm around Helios' waist, too.

"Hey," they whispered, tracing his forehead with a single finger. "It's morning. Claude, morning. Morning to Claude."

The other only squinted his eyes, refusing to open them yet. Then, the grip around Helios' waist got a bit tighter and he tried to hide his face between the pillow and their shoulder. Helios held in a smile, heart touched by the gesture.

"Do you feel a bit better?" Claude seemed to nod from his little hiding place. "That's nice to know, but I'm afraid I need to remind you that you have a meeting today, so..."

"Ugh..." Claude groaned before turning to Helios, pressing his face onto their body to try stay hidden somehow. "But I don't really want to get up. I'm so comfortable right now."

Helios couldn't help but chuckle. "Is that what you'll tell everyone as an excuse if you don't show up? I feel like it's kind of my responsibility too, to help you attend your duties."

"Can't you be one of those duties, then? So I can stay here with you."

The comment took them by surprise, their heart skipping a beat. Helios answered taking a hand to Claude's ear, softly caressing the side of his face to then play with his curls a bit.

"Is that a yes?" he dared to ask right after Helios snuggled a bit closer. And the smile that accompanied his words made them feel so, so grateful. To have him there, to feel him so close, to witness his teasing tone once more, especially after all he had gone through the day before.

Helios smiled with their lips only centimetres apart from Claude's skin, head nuzzling almost on his. Claude's hug only got tighter, although with a bit more hesitation than any of his words had shown before. Helios' arms were cradling his face at that point, and he felt like melting.

"Claude..."

"Call me Khalid."

The request was just a whisper, but Helios would always hear him loud and clear. They nuzzled his forehead with their nose before speaking again, copying his murmur: "Khalid, as much as I love being here with you, the day must begin. We should go so you don't skip breakfast just to rush to the meeting. And you know you can come back here anytime."

"Will you bring breakfast to the council room if I skip it?"

"You bet I will."

He looked up, challenging Helios' eyes, but they stared back. A chuckle left his mouth. They looked beautiful from that close, trying to keep a serious expression despite the teasing tone of his question. However, knowing them, Helios' answer was probably not a joke.

"Okay, okay," he admitted defeat with a smile. He slowly sat on bed, but not without leaving a kiss on Helios' nose. "I assume you'll come have breakfast with me?"

[randomnameless]

Okay, this is probably my fault for getting too curious but I was surfing the Ron The Death Eater page and look at this nugget. "The Savior King, the Master Tactician and the Queen of Liberation: The author outright states she hates The Flame Emperor/Supreme Leader, and so in addition to ramping up the character's existing negative traits, new flaws are created wholecloth to further turn the audience against them. For example, Supreme Leader canonically never disregarded Dimitri as an out-and-out madman as done in this fic (I guess they have forgotten the King of Delusion line or they're outright admitting Tru piss is not canon), nor did the Emperor consider him naive, guileless, or stupid. The author also adds mundane racism to the Emperor's Fantastic Racism (at least they admit Supreme Leader is racist) by disparaging Claude for being mixed-race, a sentiment never once hinted at in canon." (So her suspecting Claude's origins after the Miklan fight doesn't count ig). I know it's tv tropes but this is just peak comedy. 🤡

I remember back then when people/teachers/lecturers said "don't go on the wiki you can never trust who edits the wiki" etc and I'm thinking this can be so applied to TV Tropes for fandom related things lol

(i mean, all FE16 related wikis are hit with the same issue !)

Some devoted fans have a lot of time on their hands (hand?) and we have this, and it's still one of the first fandom i've been in where all fan-content, even the one that's supposed to be neutral like the wikis and/or TV Tropes* (I said supposed ^^ ) are so heavily biased that you basically... have to take everything with a grain of salt.

That's why I'm so grateful to the person (persons?) who made the Fe datamine website, it's the script, just the script (and audio) and you can use it to write/build whatever you want, but it's the most objective source out there to talk/discuss/build FE16 related works.

Now as for that fic, I didn't read it and I don't intend to, but there's still something funny thinking that little by little more and more people on the fandom will find canon!Supreme Leader a "Ron the Death Eater" version of fanon!Supreme Leader as the game grows older and less and less people will remember what they played - if they even played FE16!

*Add Serenes to the list, as a honorary member because of the horrid NoA lolcalisation/advertisment for the game, that already sets a tone that is, just, not present in the JP version or all the EU ones (Fodlan is a land controlled by the CoS!)

[banditcoyote]

He nodded and kissed his finger tips several times to blow them her way, immensely grateful that she would do so for him when she very much didn't have to, and he shook his head, reaching for the phone once more. "No, I'm his and his alone....though I do covet that, I don't want to be passed around like the others. I don't mind waiting, I just want to make sure it's him." "I'll grab a brush and a comb." he said smiling and went to the bathroom to find the proper tools to assist, just as Bastien was coming out of the closet with very little black material in hand, He laid it out on the bed for her and then fluttered to retrieve her purple robe that Echo had gifted her that matched his own so she could wear the skimpy lingerie with some modesty in the halls of the chateau. Coyote texted back. "I'll wait in our room, let me know if you're going to take longer than an hour?" Claude appeared again and moved to Sasuga's side to start fussing with her hair, taking down small pieces and brushing or combing it and rearranging it on her head so it looked playfully mussed instead of a walk of shame. Soon enough he was done and after making sure she had eaten enough on her plate he gently took it away to offer his hand so the fairies could help her dress.

Blood and Moonlight

Sasuga woke in what was at first an unfamiliar area but as she blinked fully awake she realized it was their closet that Coyote had decorated for them. She smiled and took a careful kiss from her mate who was still sound asleep next to her. It really had been an amazing night with the family and then with her husband. As she slipped from his arms, she took a moment to look at her reflection in the mirror, her fingers dancing over the fresh marks on her neck and hips. She couldn't have asked for anything more from the night and it was with some reluctance that she dressed. She picked out a pair of warm leggings and a short little skirt to pull over them with some knee high boots and a thick sweater. She slipped from the closet and moved to the bathroom to comb her hair and brush her teeth and get ready for the big day ahead. She gave a stretch and headed downstairs only to find a familiar face waiting for her. "Raphael..." she smiled and moved to greet him with a hug. "I see you are still alive." she smirked. "Want some tea? Coffee?"

@banditcoyote

[mournmento]

bones  littered  the  workspace  ,  odd  femurs  ,  too  scratched  or  cracked  or  worn  ,  marrow  not  thick  enough  ,  a  small  crook  .  only  the  perfect  picked  out  and  laid  on  the  table  in  a  tableau  of  the  full  human  skeleton  .  minus  a  pelvis  .  he  still  needed  to  find  a  perfect  pelvis  .

                     𝐀𝐓𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐒: 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐓𝐒                     @blightworn : ' what have you done? ' (from claude)

  he  looked  at  the  creator  ,  looked  down  at  his  work  .  matched  his  eyes  .  was  it  not  obvious  at  this  point  .  did  he  have  yet  another  critique  ?  he  was  open  to  constructive  criticism  ,  but  the  criticism  tended  to  be  more  vulgar  with  this  one  .  more  grating  .  his  patience  did  often  wear  thin  only  from  time  to  time  .      (  and  that  blue  moon  was  rising  .  )

❝  sculpting  a  new  host  for  a  wisp  .  after  a  recent  movement  in  the  necropolis  ,  there  is  a  new  servant  needed  for  those  in  the  libraries  ;  there  is  a  curious  little  wisp  in  need  for  the  body  to  do  its  job  ;  and  its  so  very  excited  for  it  .  ❞      (  said  with  such  joy  ,  this  was  a  service  he  took  pride  in  .  )      ❝  yes  i  do  know  its  missing  a  middle  ,  but  these  are  donations  i'm  working  with  ;  and  i  have  yet  to  find  the  perfect  -----  ❞

he  took  from  the  chest  below  ,  wrapped  in  a  chiffon  ,  delicately  ,  the  most  perfect  of  tailbones  ,  and  thus  his  masterpiece  was  finished  .  and  with  an  exclamation  of  'aha'  he  fitted  it  to  the  sculpture  .

❝  now  you  cant  find  anything  to  criticize  ------  ❞

[grandsonoflightike]

Grey Three Houses/Hopes P6: The Blitz of Light Riegan

Background Music Announcement: The Ashen Demon Cover With Lyrics by The Muses’ Mire

*Somewhere in Light Riegan Territory*

Light Claude: So we've lost Light Gloucester. Unavoidable, perhaps, but it still stings all the same. Fortunately, I haven't been sitting on my hands this whole time. If we smash the imperial reinforcements and stop them from breaking the siege, Count Light Bergliez will have no choice but to give up. We're going to face that challenge, and we're going to face it with the Light Alliance's latest and greatest—which is why I've asked all of you here.

Light Lysithea: Did you really just say "latest and greatest" with a straight face?

Light Hilda: Oh, he said it, all right. And while I can't swear we'll have that, we do at least have numbers on our side.

*The camera pans over to Lysithea, Hilda, Raphael, and Marianne.*

Light Raphael: Yup! More than half of the old Golden Deer house is here!

Light Marianne: Some of us may not be quite as "great" as you say, but... Well, you know best.

Lighr Claude: I'm grateful to each of you for answering the call. It's more than I can say for some of our classmates.

Light Raphael: Yeah, Light Ignatz and Light Lorenz both sided with the enemy...

Light Lysithea: … About that. It pains me to say this, but House Light Ordelia has made its allegiance to the Shadow Empire clear. It was against my light parents' protests that I came here in the first place. If this battle doesn't unfold the way you're hoping, I may be forced to leave as quickly as I arrived.

Light Hilda: That's OK, Light Lysithea. You're not the only one who's here with strings attached.

Light Marianne: Yes, my adoptive father has also insisted I return home at once should the tides turn against us.

Light Claude: Sounds about right. (sad) Three cheers for that good old Light Alliance solidarity!

Light Raphael: I'll fight with you to the end, Light Claude! Uh, unless it puts Light Maya in danger. Then I'm out.

Light Claude: Look, what matters is that you're all here—and that we settle this war with the next battle. Also, for full disclosure, I may have sort of brought along some extra professional muscle. Come on in!

*Light Claude looks to his left as Grey Bileth enters the room.*

Grey Bileth: It's good to meet you. I'm the acting Representation of the Kingdom.

Light Claude: Our guest here is fresh off another battle with the Shadow Empire on L8ght Kingdom soil. From what I gather, remaining in the Light Kingdom was no longer an option with us being their allies. And that's when our paths crossed here in Light Alliance territory.

Light Hilda: Oh, hello. I know "reliable" when I see it, and you are definitely that!

Grey Bileth: I'll do whatever you ask as long as we're allied. I won't fail you.

*At The Shadow Imperial Camp, Shadow Edelgard meets with her commanders in the conference room.*

Shadow Edelgard: All right, let's begin our council. As you've no doubt heard from our scouts, the path from here to Light Derdriu will be fraught with difficulties.

Shadow Hubert: The Light Alliance has constructed fortalices and palisades, and laid other traps to slow our progress. In addition, they are plotting ambushes at key positions along the way. Needless to say, we will not be able to avail ourselves of the direct route.

Shadow Dorothea: But if we try to dance around all their traps, we'll never make it in time.

Shadow Linhardt: Yes, but this is Count Shadow Bergliez we're talking about. He could probably stretch his soldiers a few extra days through sheer force of will.

Shadow Hubert: I would normally write off such an idea as lunacy, but sadly, it will likely come to that. We have made attempts to smuggle provisions to Count Shadow Bergliez through holes in the enemy lines, but this has met with little success.

Shadow Bernadetta: They must be so hungry... I know just how that feels. The struggle to get food when all you want to do is hide under the covers? Hello, old friend.

Shadow Ferdinand: I mean no offense, but if time is truly so short, why do we waste it dithering in council? We should embark on our rescue mission straightaway!

Shadow Shez: Yeah, what're we waiting for? We're their only hope!

Shadow Caspar: I agree! Less talking, more saving!

Shadow Edelgard: Calm down, all of you. Such rash action is exactly what Light Claude is counting on.

Shadow Monica: So we must take the safe route, but do so as quickly as possible. A "best of both worlds" situation, I suppose. Understood.

Shadow Edelgard: Good. With that decided, let's move on and discuss our preferred formation...

*After The Council Meeting, Shadow Shez talks to Shadow Edelgard.*

Shadow Edelgard: Light Claude has been causing me no end of trouble. He truly is a cunning adversary. Come to think of it, that particular quality stretches back to his student days. He appears suddenly and with an easy smile that reveals nothing, yet the entire time he is scheming to outwit you. Tell me, what's your impression of the man.

Shadow Shez: He seems like a nice, easy-going sort of fellow—especially for a noble.

Shadow Edelgard: A positive evaluation indeed. But perhaps not all that surprising.

*Shadow Shez then talks to Shadow Hubert.*

Shadow Hubert: Honestly, my greatest concern right now is the situation on the Kingdom side of matters. Especially as my reports claim Count Light Rowe gives no indication of further betrayal. Also, General Shadow Randolph appears to be doing well. The man has ambition to spare, and is beloved by his subordinates. He rather reminds me of yourself.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Ferdinand and Light Lorenz.*

Shadow Ferdinand: Light Lorenz, I am simply overjoyed that you have decided to fight on the side of the Empire.

Light Lorenz: Still your joy, Shadow Ferdinand. A defeated man makes no decisions—he simply does as he is told.

Shadow Ferdinand: Even so, you were clever enough to read the winds of war and stop fighting before it was too late.

Light Lorenz: To fight in vain is to bring suffering upon one's people. That is a thought neither I nor my father could ever stomach.

Shadow Shez: No need for the false humility. Not many people could make the call you did.

Shadow Ferdinand: Exactly! And now, we two will henceforth show the world the true spirit of the nobility!

Light Lorenz: Delightful words. I will return the favor of my life by fighting alongside you all.

*Shadow Shez talks To Shadow Linhardt.*

Shadow Linhardt: I recently received an unusual letter from my father regarding the Minister of Military Affairs. He says this is an opportunity to have the man in my debt, and entreats me to do my utmost to rescue him. I find the whole thing quite odd. They dislike each other as much as ever, yet still maintain a deep concern for one another.

Shadow Shez: They seem like a rather cunning pair—maybe their whole "not getting along" thing was just for show.

Shadow Linhardt: I can't fathom what purpose deceiving so many people would have. Why go to the trouble? Well, it's nothing to me. If they wish to play politics, they can have their fun.

*Shadow Shez then talks to Shadow Caspar.*

Shadow Caspar: I've gotta get stronger—but I also need to start using my head more! War isn't just about two sides smashing into each other—much as I'd like it to be. You've also got sieges, rescues, logistics, defense, and so much more.

Shadow Shez: Good point. I better sharpen my thinking as well.

Shadow Caspar: Say, why don't we do it together? We'll work our bodies with hours of training and our minds by reviewing battle tactics. Whaddya say?

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Bernadetta.*

Shadow Bernadetta: You know what? I kinda like sieges. I mean, think about it! You get to stay nice and cozy in some castle of whatever? It sounds great! Oh, but then there's the part where the enemy cuts off your supply lines and tries to starve you out, huh... Nope! Never mind! Go away, sieges!

Shadow Shez: Uh...OK then.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Dorothea.*

Shadow Dorothea: Sometimes I wonder if this war is merely some grand opera that takes place on the stage of Grey Fódlan. It's a dramatic portrayal of life and death where everyone's hopes and dreams come crashing into one another. It's almost like we're part of someone else's script.

Shadow Shez: Yeah, I dunno. I don't think we'd fight as hard if we thought the outcome had already been decided. Sure, there's a lot of drama and action going on, but we're the only ones who can determine how this whole thing is going to end.

Shadow Dorothea: Well said. In truth, I think I wanted you to disagree.

*Shadow Shez then talks to Shadow Petra.*

Shadow Petra: I am sensing little unity in the Light Alliance. What could be the reason? They are having many lords, but each of them are doing whatever they please. I am wondering if a region requires a leader such as an emperor or other monarch in order to function.

*Shadow Shez Then talks to Shadow Monica.*

Shadow Monica: As one would expect from the territory of the house that leads the Light Alliance, Lighr Riegan is well-prepared for any and all possibilities. They've even shown signs of preparing for an invasion of the Empire. You think Light Claude is plotting something else? Because if so...

Shadow Shez: Didn't Edelgard tell you to stop overthinking things? Let's just deal with the problems we know are in front of us and save the "maybe" stuff for another day.

Shadow Monica: That's...not really what I expected you to say, actually. But good advice regardless!

*Shadow Shez Then talks To Light Ignatz.*

Light Ignatz: ...

Shadow Shez: Gotta say, having you House Gloucester types back on our side again is reassuring.

Light Ignatz: It's an honor to hear that. I look forward to fighting at your side.

*Shadow Shez Then talks to Grey Balthus.*

Grey Balthus: Well, look who it is! The big bad sellsword folks just can't stop talking about. Heard the shadow emperor went and made you a shadow general, yeah? Bet that put some coin in your pocket!

Shadow Shez: Funny thing about money—the more you have, the more you seem to find yourself spending.

Grey Balthus: Haha! You sound like me! I love it! Now let's make sure we both get outta this mess in one piece so we can spend that coin, eh?

*Shadow Shez then talks to Grey Constance.*

Grey Constance: This has nothing whatsoever to do with me... But I was incredibly relieved that House Gloucester did not meet with ruin.

Shadow Shez: This have something to do with your house?

Grey Constance: please don't shout it aloud for the world to hear! Though yes, you have seen to the core of me... Still, I feel certain that my house will see its own revival one day.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Grey Hapi.*

Grey Hapi: I think this might be my first time going into Light Alliance territory. It's fun to discover new things. Like, did you know there might be some trees that only grow here?

Shadow Shez: You like trees?

Hapi: Sure do. Or to be more specific, I like the berries that fall off of them—or anything else that tastes good.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Manuela.*

Shadow Manuela: *Practicing singing* Oh, dear. So terribly sorry. Just checking the condition of my throat, is all!

*Shadow Shez Stares at her unblinking.*

Shadow Manuela: Er, you're not saying anything. Are you all right? Do you need medical aid, perhaps? Or perhaps you were transfixed by my beauty and lovely voice! It happens a lot, I'm afraid.

Shadow Monica: *sees this and her heart jumps in her chest, Making her Think…* Why did my heart jump?

*Shadow Shez then talks to Shadow Jeritza.*

Shadow Jeritza: Some say Count Shadow Bergliez is the strongest man in the Empire. Perhaps he can slay me if we cross blades.

Shadow Shez: Uh, our job is to help Count Shadow Bergliez, so maybe slow down on all this duel talk.

Shadow Jeritza: Only a jest, I assure you.

*Shadow Shez then talks to Shadow Ladislava.*

Shadow Ladislava: I thank you for your assistance on the Great Bridge of Myrddin. I volunteered to take up the vanguard, yet ended up deceived by the enemy's actions and was cut off. I do hope that troublesome Count Gloucester remains in quiet retirement going forward.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Grey Anna.*

Gret Anna: Hello there, friend! What are you looking for today? Not sure I've got anything stocked in the way of "tools for breaking a brutal siege," sadly. Still, I'd be in a real mess if I lost a valued customer like you, so take your time and look around!

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Arval.*

Shadow Arval: She wants to change the world, does she? How amusing. And what do you think of this idea of hers?

Shadow Shez: I definitely wanna try and make it happen, if we can.

Shadow Arval: Is that so? But even if you manage to change things, there's no guarantee such actions will bring about the bright future you desire.

*Shadow Shez then talks to The Shadow Imperial Soldier near the Common Area.*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: You the commander I've heard about? The one lifted up from the commonfolk and given authority? Some folks say you aren't even from the Shadow Empire. Regardless, your being here is good news for me—means a rought-and-tumble lady like myself might actually end up with a promotion someday!

*Shadow Shez then talks to the Grey Mercenary by the Campfire.*

Grey Mercenary: Heya! I'm from Grey Abyss, the place under Grey Garreg Mach. Basically, I crawled outta the same hole as Grey Hapi and Grey Constance. I'm here 'cause the Shadow Imperial army's recruitin' bodies. But the pay's good and the rations are plentiful, so you won't hear me complain!

*Shadow Shez then talks to Light Alliance General in the Marketplace.*

Light Alliance General: I am a knight of House Light Gloucester. Lord Light Lorenz ordered me to come here and join your ranks. The previous count, Light Erwin, has long desired to stand above the ruling House Light Riegan. Though we now serve the Shadow Empire, it seems were are fated to share a relationship with their house.

*Shadow Shez Then talks to the Grey Gatekeeper.*

Grey Gatekeeper: Greetings, Commander! Nothing to report! Count Shadow Bergliez's forces are right in front of us, but our march is going to still take a while longer. It's driving me up the wall! Sure wish there was something I could do. Well, guess I'll just hunker down and keep on keeping on. No enemies are getting in here, I swear it!

*Shadow Shez then talks to the Shadow Imperial Soldier in the Command Center.*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: I was dispatched from the capital as a messenger. And honestly, the mood here at the front is much better than I expected it to be. I was pretty worried about the Shadow Minister of Military Affairs being in such a tricky spot, you know? But now I can return to the capital with my mind at ease. May the tides of battle flow in your favor!

*Shadow Shez then talks to the Shadow Imperial Soldier near the Blacksmith.*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: I've found myself wondering if Her Majesty couldn't have us advance at greater speed. And yet we continue our careful, plodding pace, holding both banks of the Airmid as we do. Perhaps she is more cautious than expected. Or perhaps... Ah, no. Forget I said anything.

*Shadow Shez then is forced to talk to The Shadow Imperial Pegasus Knight in the Central Plaza.*

Shadow Imperial Pegasus Knight: You there! You recognize me, yes? Don't tell me you were trying to slip by without giving proper respects! It boggles the mind to think a commoner like you would ignore a highborn baron such as myself. Hmm? You wonder how I pinpointed your baseborn nature? Your aura and stench tell me all I need to know. Hmph!

Shadow Byleth: He and I don't know that.  Shadow Shez doesn't know because he Wasn't born in the Shadow Empire.

Shadow Imperial Pegasus Knight: Sorry then, Commander.

*Shadow Shez then talks to the Shadow Imperial Priest in the Central Plaza.*

Shadow Imperial Priest: Light Claude makes much trouble for us. He oversaw the recapture of the bridge, and commanded the siege of the Imperial army as it attacked Leicester. Though it pains me to do so, I would be a liar if I did anything but acknowledge his ability. I imagine the man has earned a nickname of his own by this point. Perhaps the Light Master Tactician?

*Shadow Shez then talks to the Shadow Imperial General at the Training Grounds.*

Shadow Imperial General: Why aren't we advancing more quickly?! When I think about how Shadow  Leopold and our allies are in danger... Ugh, it really makes me mad! We're going to help them, no matter what!

*Then Shadow Shez goes to Sleep while waiting. Shadow Shez suddenly wakes up in Shadow Arval's dimension again.*

Shadow Shez: Huh? What's... Oh, it's a dream.

Shadow Arval: Why do you always settle for such simple reasoning? You know this is more than a fabrication of your sleep-addled mind! Our first reunion in who knows how long, and you try to write me off as a figment of your imagination? Hmph!

Shadow Shez: Sorry about that—though I was definitely asleep last I checked. Anyway, what do you want?

Shadow Arval: To warn you. Something is troubling me. Eating away at me, actually. I can't quite put my finger on it, but I can sense a presence closing in on you. A dangerous one.

Shadow Shez: The Grey Ashen Demon, right? This wouldn't be your first warning about that one.

Shadow Arval: Mmm, that might be it... Perhaps the two of you will square off in battle soon.

Shadow Shez: Good. Because this time, I'm gonna win. I have to. Fortunately, I'm pretty used to these powers of yours by now.

Shadow Arval: Then I'll let myself stay just a tiny bit optimistic. Just don't forget that your opponent has had as much time to grow as you. Your future isn't the only one at stake here—the Demon could also put an end to Shadow Edelgard's vision with as little as one swing of a sword. Whatever happens, we can't let all our hard work be undone!

Shadow Shez: Since when have you been such a worrier? I've got this, trust me.

Shadow Arval: What do you mean? I'm always worried about you! After all, you're my--

Shadow Shez: Yeah, yeah, I'm your "partner in destiny."

Shadow Arval: *laughs* I finally got you to say it! How wonderful!

*Shadow Shez, Shadow Edelgard, Shadow Hubert, and Shadow Monica meet outside the battlefield.*

Shadow Hubert: I knew Count Shadow Bergliez was formidable, but I clearly did not give the man enough credit. I thought for certain he would've fallen by now, and yet here we are.

Shadow Edelgard: If we're handing out credit, Light Claude deserves some as well. Maintaining a siege for this long takes its own toll on morale. Yet his troops remain disciplined, well-positioned, and ready to engage us.

Shadow Monica: One advantage to a siege is mobility—they can deploy soldiers up and down the line as needed to keep the upper hand. In other words, they are outfitted with many highly mobile units, which means they can respond quickly to enemy reinforcements as well.

Shadow Edelgard: If we rush in blindly and are driven back, it would likely break our allies' spirits for good. Not even Count Shado2 Bergliez would be able to rally them again. Surrender would be the only option.

Shadow Shez: Ngh...

Shadow Arval: Why are they wavering now when we're so close? We're not looking to win the war today—we just have to break the siege!

Shadow Shez: We should attack their lines at multiple positions. We don't need to win the battle—we just need them to break formation long enough for the count and his troops to get out of there.

Shadow Hubert: Well, this is new. You are not often one to give voice to your opinions on tactics. Still, you have struck the proverbial nail on the head. That is exactly how we must proceed.

Shadow Edelgard: Then it's decided. I look forward to your exploits on the battlefield. Today, we free our Shadow Imperial allies and reward their continued valor in the face of impossible odds!

*At the start of battle, Shadow Shez Surprisingly for some reason deploy everyone…*

Shadow Edelgard: Count Shadow Bergliez controls the stronghold in the center of the plain, but the enemy has him completely cut off from aid. Our goal is to break the siege so he and his troops can evacuate safely.

Light Claude: So much for securing a surrender before reinforcements arrive. Well, you all know what to do. Engage the enemy!

Shadow Caspar: There's no time for the delicate approach. Let's tear into 'em from all sides!

Shadow Hubert: There can be no victory this day if we do not rescue both Bergliez and his troops.

*When Light Ignatz encounters Light Raphael)

Light Raphael: I'm itchin' to show what my muscles can do. Now, who... Huh? Oh, hey, Light Ignatz!

Light Ignatz: I don't want to kill you, Light Raphael...so I'm just going to have to knock some sense into you instead!

*When Light Raphael's HP reach <= 50%*

Light Raphael: Ugh, this is rough. My body's crying out for a break!

*When Light Raphael is defeated*

Light Ignatz: You don't have to do this, Light Raphael. Think about Maya! She needs you, remember?

Light Raphael: Hey, no fair! But...all right, Light Ignatz. I'm in, but only 'cause it's you!

Count Shadow Bergliez: *to his generals* Her Majesty comes to rescue us! I know your spirits are weary, but rekindle them now with whatever spark of hope remains in your soul!

*When Light Lorenz encounters Light Marianne*

Light Lorenz: Light Marianne! What are you doing on the front lines? Stand down!

Light Marianne: No! I can't abandon my friends while they all fight for their lives!

Shadow Edelgard: Aren't negotiations with Margrave Light Edmund still ongoing? Perhaps we can win Light Marianne over to our side.

*When Light Marianne's HP reach <= 50%*

Light Marianne: What does it matter if I die...

*When Marianne is defeated*

Light Lorenz: I cannot bear to strike you down, Light Marianne. Please surrender—your father will understand.

Light Marianne: You're right. My adoptive father would want me to lay down my arms, not my life.

Shadow Ferdinand: We have broken through! Continue pushing!

Shadow Edelgard: We must secure an exit for our allies. Taking down those strongholds will drive a wedge into their siege.

Shadow Petra: There are two strongholds. We must deploy our forces with cleverness to be taking both.

*When Shadow Shez And Shadow Monica encounters Light Hilda.*

Light Hilda: Look, I really need to hold this line, so why don't you just leave and we'll call it a day?

*When Light Ignatz encounters Light Hilda.*

Light Ignatz: I knew this was coming, but it still hurts to fight my old friends...

Light Hilda: You serve House Light Gloucester. What did you expect?

*When Grey Balthus encounters Light Hilda*

Grey Balthus: Uh oh! You're not here with... OK, whew! No Light Holst. Now scram already, will ya? Get outta here while you still can!

Light Hilda: Oh, I will, Grey Baltie—right after you explain why you're fighting for the Empire! You know Light Holst is never gonna let you live this down!

*When Light Hilda's HP reach <= 50%*

Light Hilda: I can't mess this up—not when everyone's counting on me...

*When Light Hilda is defeated*

Light Claude: Get outta there, Light Hilda! We can't lose you!

Light Hilda: Yeah, all right... Sorry!

Shadow Edelgard: Our allies are nearly within reach! Clear out the enemy soldiers in those strongholds!

Shadow Monica: A detachment of white mages stands ready to mend our wounded comrades.

Shadow Edelgard: Now! Heal Count Shadow Bergliez's forces!

Shadow Bergliez General: *after being healed* Thank you!

*When Shadow Edelgard and Shadow Byleth encounters Light Lysithea.*

Light Lysithea: All right, here they come... But I came here to fight, and I won't back down!

Shadow Hubert: House Light Ordelia has already offered us their allegiance, which means Light Lysithea is here of her own accord.

*When Grey Balthus encounters Lysithea*

Grey Balthus: Whoa! Hold on! I can't fight you! You're from House Light Ordelia!

Light Lysithea: Well, don't expect me to hold back just because you do.

*When Light Lorenz encounters Light Lysithea*

Light Lorenz: I do not understand your motives, Light Lysithea. Why do you go against your house's wishes?

Light Lysithea: My decisions are my own, Light Lorenz—and there are some sacrifices I simply won't make.

*When Light Ignatz encounters Light Lysithea.*

Light Ignatz: Please, stand down, Lysithea. There's no reason for us to fight!

Light Lysithea: I don't remember asking your opinion!

*When Light Lysithea's HP reach <= 50%*

Light Lysithea: Not bad. No, not bad at all.

*When Light Lysithea is defeated*

Shadow Edelgard: I've heard about what was done to you, Light Lysithea. And as one who understands that intimately, I ask you to join my cause.

Light Lysithea: You, too... Yes, all right. I'll hear you out.

*When a unit reaches Count Shadow Bergliez*

Count Shadow Bergliez: Ah, but it does my heart good to see you! Pray take care of my troops.

Shadow Linhardt: Now then, if they'll just be kind enough to let us escape this way...

Light Claude: The siege is coming apart at the seams... Deploy the reinforcements! Fill those gaps!

Shadow Monica: They're trying to shore up areas where we've thinned their ranks. Don't let that happen!

*When Shadow Caspar approaches Count Shadow Bergliez.*

Count Shadow Bergliez: Well met, my son. For the first time in my life, I thought my end had come for me.

Shadow Caspar: Yeah. I've never seen you in such bad shape. You look half-dead!

*When Shadow Edelgard approaches Count Shadow Bergliez*

Count Shadow Bergliez: I'm humbled you came for me personally, Your Shadow Majesty.

Shadow Edelgard: You can thank me once we're clear of this place. Now ready your troops for retreat.

*When Shadow Petra approaches Count Shadow Bergliez*

Count Shadow Bergliez: It surprises me to see you among the ranks of my rescuers.

Shadow Petra: Do not be having the wrong idea. I am helping the Shadow Empire, not you.

Shadow Ferdinand: Good, they're wide open. Push through! We must reach Count Shadow Bergliez!

*After defeating two of the generals attacking Count Shadow Bergliez*

Light Alliance Soldier near the Farming Village Hut: All right, you asked for it... Target their forts and crush their reinforcements!

Shadow Caspar: They've got catapults! We have to stop 'em!

*When The Farming Village Hut is seized*

Shadow Bernadetta: So, I don't want to panic anyone, but they're still hurling boulders at us!

*When The Devastated Farmland is seized*

Shadow Linhardt: Well, that was a delight. Maybe we can stop and rest for a few here?

*When all of the enemies surrounding Count Shadow Bergliez are defeated*

Count Shadow Bergliez: The siege is broken, men! Your courage and perseverance have been rewarded!

Shadow Edelgard: The way is open! Move as one, and defend the count and soldiers as we go!

Light Claude: You think I'm just gonna let you slink out of here? Ha! I'm already two steps ahead!

Grey Jeralt: Sorry, Light Claude.  Grey Bileth and Light Timmy are fighting.  We will be taking over now through.

*Grey Jeralt and his Grey mercenaries appear to the south and west and They appear to be on a purple side.*

Shadow Byleth: Father, you are your own side now?

Grey Jeralt: Right you are. It is led by Light Timmy and Light Annette.

Light Claude: They Took a coliseum from us for removing Those Who Shadow Slither In The Dark from the territory which is why Light Timmy Took That Territory it turns out. It was Light Tanner was a Those Who Shadow Slither In The Dark Member named Thanaton.

Shadow Scileth: How disgraceful.

*Meanwhile Grey Bileth And Light Timmy are battling far away.*

Grey Bileth: What is your deal, Light Timmy?

Light Timmy: There are Some Evil Doers.  Light Annette, Use The Light Magic To Reveal Them.

*At The Back Of Purple Interlopers Base, Light Annette casts a spell and a third Of Claude's Forces Turn to The Green Team. Tyson The Leader Of The Green Team takes the Northeastern Stronghold And Secures it for The Green Team..*

Shadow Edelgard: They've cut off our escape and... Oh no. Look who's with them.

Shadow Shez: We won't put a dent in Jeralt's company with the numbers he has. I vote we rush Claude's main position or Those Who Shadow Slither In The Dark's Main Position instead.

Shadow Hubert: It would indeed catch All 3 other Sides by surprise—but do we flank from the left or right?

Shadow Monica: Either way, let's choose a path and clear out anyone foolish enough to stand before us!!

Shadow Hubert: The count's soldiers we saved could be of great use if we place them under his command.

Count Shadow Bergliez: With this many troops, I can finally turn the tide. Time to wipe the smug grin off that Alliance kid's face!

Shadow Hubert: So much for choosing which side to flank. It seems we must follow the count's lead.

Count Shadow Bergliez: Her Shado2 Majesty has given us a chance to escape! Rush the enemy and smash the Alliance to splinters!

Shadow Edelgard: I hope the count isn't doing what I think he's doing... Everyone, stay with him!

Light Claude: Wait, what?! They're going the wrong way!

*Count Shadow Bergliez and his troops go northeast and reach what appears to be a dead end.*

Count Shadow Bergliez: No Shadow Bergliez goes the long way round—we smash through and make our own path!

*The Shadow count smashes the wall to pieces with Shadow Járngreipr, opening a shortcut through the mountain straight to Light Claude's base.*

Light Claude: Is he nuts? That's not even a proper path... Is he just coming straight for us?!

Shadow Hubert: This strategy makes no sense at all, which is exactly why I think it may work.

*When Count Shadow Bergliez reaches any escape point*

Shadow Edelgard: We're nearly clear of the battlefield. Just one more push and... Oh no.

*Suddenly Grey Bileth warps ahead of the Shadow Imperial Army by Shadow Magic.*

Grey Bileth: How I get here?

*Tyson Chuckles. Suddenly Light Annette Warps Light Timmy To The Eastern Forts.*

Light Annette: You shouldn't Have Done that Tyson.

*Light Timmy Then Slashes his Creator Whip Across The Entire Map removing all green side units except Tyson and Taking their Forts, chuckling after.*

Tyson: Argh. This isn't over. *He Warps out of there.*

Grey Bileth: Ah, that's It eh? Anyway, It won't do to have you slip our grasp now.

Shado2 Edelgard: The Ashen Demon. Clever of Light Claude to keep this little surprise for the moment it would matter most...

Count Shadoq Bergliez: I'll handle the grey mercenary! The rest of you press on. Don't stop, no matter what!

*Light Claude opens the Enemy Base gate.*

Count Shadow Bergliez: You'll never get a better crack at the alliance's leadership, Your Shadow Majesty! Hit them with all you have! Leave nothing on the battlefield!

Shadow Edelgard: Count Shadow Bergliez is keeping the Ashen Demon busy, which means now is our chance to strike at Light Claude!

Grey Jeralt: They're avoiding us entirely and attacking the main position instead. Looks like someone over there has half a brain after all...

Light Alois: Hmm? They're attacking the main position? But that's not... Urgh! I have to go help them!

*When Shadow Shez approaches Light Claude*

Light Claude: So you're the one who's messing up all of my clever plans!

Shadow Shez: Hey, I just work here—but you're gonna make a nice trophy for the Shadow Emperor.

*When Shadow Edelgard approaches Light Claude*

Shadow Edelgard: Light Claude, can't you just play nice until I achieve what I set out to do?

Light Claude: Funny—I was gonna ask you that. But I'm guessing the answer's the same for both of us.

*When Shadow Hubert approaches Light Claude*

Shadow Hubert: While you never fail to surpass expectations, it seems the element of surprise was with Count Shadow Bergliez today.

Light Claude: Right? I hit the guy hard enough to break him a dozen times over and he still kept coming. He's more nightmare than man!

*When Light Lorenz approaches Light Claude*

Light Claude: I'm sad it's come to this, Light Lorenz.

Light Lorenz: And yet even as you speak those words, you seek an opening to strike at me. I know you well, Light Claude.

*When Light Ignatz approaches Light Claude*

Light Claude: Never too late to do the right thing, Light Ignatz. Come back to us.

Light Ignatz: Stop trying to sway me, Light Claude! It's not going to work!

*When Light Claude's HP reach <= 50%*

Light Claude: They've got me cornered! Better think fast...

*When Light Claude is defeated.*

Claude: That's all I can take. Let's see if our new Kingdom Representative is worth all that gold.

Count Bergliez: I must be getting old... Enough! I'm falling back!

Light Timmy: Time to go. (retreats)

Shadow Hubert: We have reinforcements watching the escape route. They will hold The Light Kingdom at bay.

Shadow Edelgard: Which just leaves the Ashen Demon. We're close to the finish now, so let's take whatever time we need and do this right.

Shadow Monica: Their clash with Count Shadow Bergliez has left the Demon weary—this could be our best chance to crush that pest for good.

*When Shadow Shez approaches Grey Bileth*

Grey Bileth: How many times have we fought now? Either way, this will be the last.

Shadow Shez: You're right about that. I'm not letting you leave here alive, Ashen Demon!

*When Grey Bileth's HP reach <= 50%*

Grey Bileth: The Empire has grown strong...

*Shadow Shez, in his Awakened form, attempts to attack Grey Bileth with one of their swords, but Grey Bileth activates Divine Pulse, disappearing for a second before reappearing and punching Shadow Shez in the solar plexus, flinging them backward onto the ground. Grey Bileth, also Awakened, slowly walks up to Shadow Shez and points her sword at them. Grey Sothis begins to speak to through her vessel.*

Grey Bileth: Such vexing arrogance for one so small. Perhaps you truly are one of their descendants. In any event, you labored to destroy my vessel, did you not? That is a deed most foul...

*After another Divine Pulse activation, Grey Bileth appears behind Shadow Shez and attacks.*

Grey Bileth: One you will pay for with your life!

*Shadow Shez dodges the first blow, but Grey Bileth teleports and attacks again.*

Grey Bileth: You cannot hope to win so bound in flesh. Pitiful.

Shadow Arval: *to Shadow Shez* This isn't a fight you can win. Get out of there!

*Shadow Shez stumbles and runs away as Grey Bileth continues to walk toward them.*

Grey Bileth: You can run all you like...

*Grey Bileth begins to resist Grey Sothis' control over them, causing them to double over, clutching their chest*

Grey Bileth: Why do you...fight me...

*Grey Bileth begins to speak in their own voice again.*

Grey Bileth: Why, Grey Sothis?

*In Light Riegan Territory, Light Claude and Light Hilda meet after the battle.*

Light Hilda: I'm sorry, Light Claude. They were too much for us.

Light Claude: It's all right, Light Hilda. Well, it's not, but I knew this was a possible outcome. I was hoping the terrain might let us hold, but against that many soldiers deployed that skillfully... It just wasn't enough.

Light Hilda: You sound sad. It's a little weird.

Light Claude: Can you blame me? Look at how many people have died because I decided to fight this war. Maybe I should've just let the Empire have their way...

Light Hilda: My light father and the others never would've accepted that. You had to throw everything you had at the enemy at least once, or they'd think you were a coward forever.

Light Claude: Wow, Light Hilda. I didn't think you'd picked up on all of that. But yeah, that's pretty much it. Too bad everything I had still wasn't enough.

Light Hilda: Well, the next step is to put our heads together and figure out what to do next.

Light Claude: I hope you don't mind if I lean on you and that brother of yours for support. *looks up at sky* Light Leicester's roundtable is overdue for some big changes...

*On the other side of the battlefield, Count Shadow Bergliez meets with Shadow Edelgard and Shadow Hubert.*

Count Shadow Bergliez: *bows to Shadow Edelgard* Again, Your Shadow Majesty, you've got my deepest thanks for rescuing us. And since my lack of foresight's to blame, let me apologize again for what happened.

Shadow Edelgard: I will not hear of it, Count Shadow Bergliez. Had any but you been in command, I would be collecting corpses right now instead of thanks. I failed to see what Duke Light Riegan and Count Light Gloucester were plotting—the blame is mine alone. So I will hear no more self-reproach from you. Go now and rest those weary bones.

Count Shadow Bergliez: I'm grateful for the kindness, Your Shadow Majesty. Honestly, this experience shook me more than you might realize. I never would've made it through without the brave men and women who serve me. They're the ones who deserve your praise.

Shadow Edelgard: Understood. I will see they are duly rewarded. Shadow Hubert, summon Shadow Monica and have that put in writing as an official decree.

*Shadow Hubert bows.*

Shadow Edelgard: And now, I want to know how we are faring with our efforts in the Kingdom...

*Meanwhile Shadow Shez and Shadow Arval Talk.*

Shadow Shez: And here I thought we'd won.

Shadow Arval: As did I.

Shadow Shez: Who knew the Ashen Demon had that kind of strength? Not that I'm making excuses. You gave me power of my own and it still wasn't close to enough.

Shadow Arval: That's not true.

Shadow Shez: Of course it is! What am I even up against here? It's like I looked away for one second and suddenly I was facing someone else entirely.

Shadow Arval: Hmm, that would explain what was troubling me before. That is the unique danger I sensed. Still, you can win this fight. I know you can! And I'll do whatever I can to make it so. We'll claim victory over that monster together!

Shadow Shez: You know what? You're right. I'll be strong enough one day if I just keep at it. Still, "one day" could be years from now at this rate. We should probably think of a backup plan. And hey, Light Timmy's a mercenary, right? Might be best for the Empire to toss some coin their way and put the rivalry behind us.

Shadow Arval: You want to hire that thing?! Seriously? Fighting side by side with Light Timmy? Are you mad?

Shadow Shez: You make it sound like the worst idea in the world. We have a war to win here, remember. Gotta keep an open mind.

Shadow Arval: Ah, I understand now. You've witnessed your adversary's true strength, and convinced yourself you cannot win. But trust me, you don't need to worry. You'll get stronger soon, I promise. So maybe don't go relinquishing your prey just yet. After all, I desire nothing more than to see you achieve your goals.

Shadow Shez: Nrgh…  No, we just need more allies.

*At The Throne of Knowledge, Grey Sothis meets with Grey Bileth at the Throne of Knowledge, angry at Grey Bileth for resisting her control.*

Grey Sothis: A glove does not defy the hand, and yet you've done just that. Grey Sothis is my name—yet I am also called The Beginning. I am Grey progenitor and mother to all who call Grey Fódlan home.

Grey Bileth: I know who you are, Grey Sothis.  The thing is the power he has Is Shadow Shamabalan In Origin but he is unaffected by the curse and Shadow Edelgard and Shadow Byleth see this.

Grey Sothis: You strike a point. You stand before my throne. If you so wish, then take a seat! But know then that your flesh is mine to wield. You lack the power to resist.

Grey Byleth: My flesh? What are you saying?

Grey Sothis: You should not have interfered! I could have cut that wretch down with a stroke. Oh, that one vexes me so. When next we meet, I must step in and deal with them myself. It is quite clear that you cannot my power safely wield. Do I speak plain?

Grey Bileth: Not in the slightest. I have so many questions...

???: Hey, lazy bones! Get up already!

*In The Light Mountains, Light Alliance Territory, Light Claude wakes Grey Bileth up.*

Light Claude: You sure you're all right? You don't seem like yourself.

Grey Bileth: I'm fine. Just a strange dream.

Light Claude: Like the ones you used to have?

Grey Bileth: Yes. But this time, we talked.

Light Claude: Huh?

Grey Sothis: You fool! That was no dream!

Grey Bileth: Ngh!

Light Claude: What's wrong!

Grey Bileth: Nothing. Wait, didn't you...

Grey Sothis: Do you lack wits? My voice is not for him! Whenever I speak, it is for you alone.

Grey Bileth: On second thought, I think there is something wrong. I mean, my hair's still a different color, right?

Light Claude: Yes, and your eyes, too. How that happened is beyond me. Anyway, we lost the battle, so probably best to wave this place good-bye and find somewhere to rest up.

Grey Sothis: Is that a fact?

Grey Bileth: Actually, I think I'd feel more comfortable staying here on the battlefield a while longer. I just need to swing my sword around, get my head on straight. Don't worry, I'll be fine.

Light Claude: If you say so. But if it gets any worse, tell me or one of your kingdom buddies.

*At The Grey Great Bridge of Myrddin, Shadow Edelgard meets with her commanders outside of the Great Bridge.*

Shadow Edelgard: Shadow Hubert, if you would.

Shadow Hubert: Of course, Your Shadow Majesty. Let me apprise you all as to what is going on. As you know, our talons have been sunk in our little Light Alliance problem for some time now. But now we must deal with the Light Kingdom, which has sent an army to claim the heads of Count Light Rowe and any others who came over to our side. However, Light Rowe is seated at Light Arianrhod, the Fortress City—a citadel as hard to crack as Fort Light Merceus.

Shadow Linhardt: Ah, Light Arianrhod. The Silver Maiden.

Shadow Caspar: Seems sorta weird to call a big, hulking place like that a "maiden."

Shadow Dorothea: That's because she's as hard to get near as the purest of maidens. If you're still confused, that's your own problem.

Shadow Caspar: Yeah, I still don't get it.

Shadow Hubert: Our reports indicate that despite the strength of the Light Kingdom's army, they are still struggling to take the Fortress City. But, given enough time, they will—unless we send reinforcements. Therefore, we must direct our attention to the Light Kingdom once more.

Shadow Ferdinand: Will this constant bouncing between the Light Kingdom and Light Alliance not take its toll on our soldiers?

Shadow Edelgard: Who said we were taking our entire force? We will depart with Grey Garreg Mach with elite troops, then collect fresh units before proceeding west. Simultaneously, I plan to have Duke Shadow Gerth summon the western lords' soldiers and march toward the Fortress City. We will join up at that point and strike at the Light Kingdom's main force together. What say you to that?

Shadow Ferdinand: I would say it is the ideal strategy—at least on paper.

Shadow Bernadetta: OK, let's keep our optimism in check here. I mean, speaking from personal experience, nothing ever turns out the way you want it to.

Shadow Petra: Should we be having concern? If the plan is good, we will find success.

Shadow Monica: And the Light Alliance? They may attempt another one of their schemes while we're distracted.

Shadow Hubert: They will not. Her Shadow Majesty is taking a measured approach to resolving matters with Light Leicester. Count Shadow Bergliez is worn as thin as they are. We will have him set up camp at the Grey Great Bridge and continue negotiations from there. To our advantage, Light Gloucester's new count, Light Lorenz, has decided to join the Empire. Additionally, the daughters of Houses Light Ordelia and Light Edmund have been given leave to fight by our side. Besides, from what I hear, the light roundtable is too busy chewing itself apart to start any more trouble.

Shadow Edelgard: That leaves only the Knights of Grey Seiros to content with. The Minister of Religious Affairs will handle them.

Shadow Bernadetta: My father? But he's not capable of facing the knights.

Shadow Shez: I let the Ashen Demon outmaneuver me in the last battle... That won't happen again.