#ch: byleth

[strawberrychevalier]

byleth is pretty and i like her

[reimulin]

drops the most insane kin list known to man and dips

[eisbyl]

reading byleth fics where ops make byleth blush and fumble and stutter when shes in love.........none of you GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[fellstcr]

⚔️ //  the  sword  of  the  creator  glowed  like  embers  alight  as  byleth  cut  down  one  foe  and  plunged  the  sacred  blade  through  the  chest  of  another.  they  were  GROTESQUE  ,   monstrous  creatures  a  mix  of   humanoid  and  twisting  foliage.  none  of  which  quite  acted  or  moved  on  their  own.  like  PUPPETS  on  a  string  ,  the  spriggan’s  movements  were  jagged  and  erratic.  easily  defeated  ...  were  it  not  for  the  sheer  scale  of  their  forces. 

             byleth  dispatched  of  another  creature  and  growled  ,  frustrated  ,  as  another  took  its  place.  her  footsteps  danced  backwards  across  the  dilapidated  castle  floors  ,  retreating  towards  her  house  leader  ,  who  was  similarly  occupied.  in  the  distance  ,  a  LOOMING  SHADOW  wove  between  the  ruined  castle  pillars.  enemy  commander.  but  as  byleth  turned  her  head  to  inform  her  ally  ,  she  found  only  him  surrounded  by  the  viney  wraiths.  one  was  closing  in  from  behind  ,  and  the  other  ...               the  spriggan’s  arm  extended  into  a  thorny  mass  of  razor-sharp  branches  and  clay.  its  body  coiled.  dimitri  roared  and  raised  his  lance.                      it  speared  through  dimitri’s  chest  first.

                                                    (  a  familiar  COLD  froze  byleth’s  veins. )

            were  time  a  tapestry  ,   then  it  was  the  will  of  the  goddess  that  tended  the  loom.  and  so  ,  like  so  many  times  before  ,  byleth  reached  out  and  unraveled  the  thread.             ethereal  flames  engulfed  her  sword’s  jagged  edges  ,  glowing  amber  and  gold  as  the  fight  played  out  once  more.  she  dodged  the  strike  of  an  incoming  attack.  spun  between  the  bodies  and  cast  divine  light  upon  their  enemies.  cried  out  as  the  monster  coiled  backwards  to  strike  at  her  student  once  more  ,  and  cast  forth  the  sublime  rage  of  the  heavens.  this  time  ,  her  sword  struck  first  ,   striking  the  light of  the  creature’s  pulsating  heart.  like  the  others  ,  it  crumpled  to  the  ground  with  a  clatter.

            “pull  back.”  byleth  ordered  ,  ducking  underneath  the  swing  of  dimitri’s  lance  only  to  knock  back  the  second  spriggan  that  dared  to  take  target  of  the  prince’s  back.  “they  have  a  leader  ,  but  i’ve  lost  his  position.”  FOOTSTEPS  THUNDERED  ,  and  byleth  swung  back  around  ,  positioning  HERSELF  between  dimitri  and  the  oncoming  onslaught. 

            “we  need  to  reorient  ;  find  higher  ground.”

@areadri​ / —  DOWN YOU GO .

[jackienautism]

[sorrowmarked]

THEY’RE CREEPY AND THEY’RE KOOKY. || accepting

“i want to assure you i remain as cold and heartless as the first day we met.” -- @heartwilled (claude & byleth)

Byleth looked over at him, both eyebrows raised. “Oh I never thought you were cold or heartless,” she said, rolling up the map they were looking over. “Truthfully, I never even felt you were particularly good at hiding that you didn’t care about others.” She told him. “People who want to change an unjust system, so rarely are cold and heartless. If anything they care too much. Care so much about it, that they can’t sit there and do nothing while an unjust system harms people. People they know, people they don’t. And from the start you were never particularly good at hiding that you didn’t like the way the system worked. Hiding your comments as jokes might have been enough to fool others, people who wanted to be fooled, people who didn’t want to have to think about what you said,” she tied the map off. “But not me. I continue to think your hear too big Claude, so I suppose it is a relief to know I am and have always been right.” 

[fireemblems24]

Golden Wildfire Ch 11

On we go to ch 11. Things are . . . uh . . . interesting.

MAIN STORY

So if you didn't see ch 10, I failed to recruit Byleth. I retried the level a few time, but honestly I just want to finish this game so I didn't bother.

Plus, the reason I failed was that Claude just sat there instead of moving forward on the escort mission, which got really frustrating, and honestly I didn't want to bother.

Ugh, I don't want to fight the Kingdom.

So those Houses that wanted to defect to the Kingdom didn't because Claude's battle was that bloody in that fire map.

Poor Dimitri and co seems like he's just betting bullied for no real reason by two imperialistic maniacs.

I love how Arval is getting snooty over Shez getting credit for their tactics lamo.

Man, this dialogue is dragging.

So Nadar is going to cause diplomatic chaos by utilizing the Almyran army without getting real permission.

Wait, Claude riled up Sreng? So much for "ending racism" lamo. Wasn't having two cultures not be prejudice against each other like his MO? The writers really just threw him in the trash, hunh.

I feel so bad for Claude fans. He's really a piece of work in this.

MAP/SIDE STUFF

Everyone missing Judith has a lot more punch than Randolph. Even Monica was like "get over it" to Fleche (but nicely).

So, let me make sure I have this right. Mr. I Want to End Prejudice Between Cultures just provoked Sreng into attacking the Kingdom so Edelgard can take it over because Rhea is the reason for everything bad. Did I get that right?

Unlike SB, GW is entertaining as hell, but man is the logic here is just non-existant. And poor Claude RIP.

Like, I know I'm biased and all, but I don't see how you're supposed to be the heroes and not Dimitri here. The people just defending themselves are getting attacked on all 3 fronts for the crime of *existing.*

Not going to lie. I kinda wish Claude didn't side with you in AG either. It would've been hype to kick everyone's ass as Dimitri after getting cornered by all these land-grabbers.

GW!Claude is really just the mean girl's sidekick. 😂

If Felix and Rodrigue die in this chapter I swear to God . . . (I just remembered Rodrigue is dead in SB now 😭 - LET THIS MAN SURVIVE).

I had to fight Felix in a side mission. Lysithea said they had to "defend this place" - like, girl, you are invading.

When the challenge is "you can't dodge" but you're using Lorenz 😌👌 (FYI, he just does not take damage in this game)

SHEZ & HILDA A SUPPORT

They're talking about how Hilda exerted energy in a battle because she worried about Shez.

Hilda claims it's just self-defense bc she was cheering for Shez on the front lines and enemies were there (honestly, this is pretty boring so far)

It's the same-old Hilda claiming she's weak but that not being true.

SHEZ & CONSTANCE C SUPPORT

I know she's an Empire character, but whatever.

She wants to create new magics to restore her noble house and wants to research Shez bc of their weird magic

Lamo, Constance low-key called us dumb

Shez suggests she get her house back through military accomplishments.

Constance refuses to train right now, she wants to at night (it's her dual personality thing, right?)

CLAUDE & LYSITHEA B SUPPORT

Their first one. Claude's unhappy Lysithea charged in the last battle. But Lysithea kicked ass, so she's upset with Claude.

Claude calls her plan dumb and that he thought Lysithea was smarter than that. Lysithea still argues it ended earlier bc of her.

Lysithea doesn't back down.

Honestly, I side with her here. Claude's being patronizing. And it's rich of him not to care about all the other deaths dragging out the battle would cause and only Lysithea dying because she's *important*

CLAUDE & HOLST A SUPPORT

Oof, this one hurts. Claude accuses the church of creating all the systems to serve their own interests, because he doesn't know the truth here. That the Empire actually created most of it, and that all the church ever did was protect a genocided race from being murdered by more power-hungry humans.

It's also hysterical to hear Claude talk about wanting to improve foreign relations while instigating a war between two cultures.

Oof, Holst doesn't care about any of this. He's only worried Claude's going to send Hilda to marry a big, brown, scary foreigner. NOT a good look.

Holst says he cares more about Hilda's future than the whole Alliance. Yikes.

HILDA & HOLST A SUPPORT

They're preparing a feast.

Oh, it's nice to see Hilda's insecurities about Holst's "perfection" come up in this, bc so far she hadn't said much.

After that last support though, Holst is actually a pretty shitty leader.

Holst wants to make the feast all about Hilda instead of himself though. Hilda likes the attention.

Hilda basically had to set up her own feast lol.

HILDA & LINHARDT A SUPPORT

Hilda's cleaning, and Linhardt's honestly upset that he's lost a fellow lazy person.

Hilda claims she never pushes work on people. That, is a lie.

Linhardt is mostly worried how bad it'll look if he's the only one not working instead one of two.

All this support confirms that Linhardt is by far the superior lazy.

LORENZ & LYSITHEA A SUPPORT

Their only support.

So, not related to their support (and watch it counter it), but I find it pretty amusing how getting a leadership position faster matured Felix and Sylvain, but Lorenz is still a bit of a joke and the butt-end of every support he's in.

He's just bragging about how awesome his position and power is.

Lysithea says she's not inheriting her house. She claims it's because she doesn't like what comes with nobility, but we all know why.

She worried that the land will go to chaos without it's leaders though. Lorenz offers help (which, imo, he's actually mature here!)

Lorenz suspects she's turning it down for another reason and encourages her to rely on others to help.

RAPHAEL & LEONIE B SUPPORT

Raphael keeps snapping bows in half when he uses them. Leonie's shocked.

Leonie seems to actually make one and invites Raphael to test it while on guard duty with her.

IGNATZ & MARIANNE B SUPPORT

Marianne found his picture. He puts it down, but she likes it (it's a horse, well a pegasus, but of course)

Ignatz gets carried away talking about it, but Marianne finds it cute.

Ignatz finds Marianne loving pegasus cute. She blushes.

He wants Marianne's help, helping him paint a pegasus bc they don't like men, but if Marianne is around he can get closer and get a better painting. She's happy to help.

Honestly, this whole support is really cute.

MAIN BATTLE/STORY

It sucks having to attack the Kingdom over and over again when all they want to do is exist in peace.

Oh, joy, Nadar wants to plunder Faerghus. I can see why Fodlan is so evil for not wanting to let them do what they will.

GW really had a chance here to finally do something interesting with Almyra. It even marketed itself as a route that WOULD. But instead it's just doubled-down on Almyra being a one-note lawless place full of barbarians. At least we have Brigid and Duscur so the only brown country isn't some racist stereotype. Since it's only 1 of 3, it's not AS bad of a look.

Fuck. I don't want to kill Felix and Rodrigue. It would be one thing if the Kingdom actually provoked this, but Felix and Rodrigue haven't done anything to deserve this.

I get to recruit Ashe again. Is he miserable here too?

Ugh, I was hoping Felix and Rodrigue weren't here. It seems vastly unfair that it's only Kingdom characters who die for reel in this.

Wow. Claude's really an A-class asshole. He told Ashe to surrender because Dimitri wouldn't want him to die. Maybe don't invade for no reason then?

Is Claude also going to single Felix out as a citizen of Faerghus who deserves to live? Or does only Ashe count and not the nobles and unnamed grunts he's slaughtering because he decided to team up with the person who plans on taking over his rule? (not hate to Ashe at all, I honestly feel awful for him in this game)

Ok, so fighting Felix is just a side quest. I'd rather fail a side quest than fight Felix so, going to try to avoid having to kill him. Ugh, he's attacking the engineers. And he's damn right saying he has every right to kill the people who are invading his home.

Thank God, he just retreated.

I still love how Claude got bent out of shape over Ashe, but Lorenz alone has killed 500 citizens of Faerghus this chapter so . . .

Felix is so worried about Rodrigue. I swear the writers wanted you to feel like shit playing this route.

Oh, fuck. Just when I thought I was finished killing people for defending themselves, Daddy Gautier shows up :( He's sacrificing himself to safe Felix and Rodrigue, isn't he?

Oh, fuck. He died for real 😭

It's really hard to like these characters, making mindless chit-chat after killing Sylvain's daddy. I hope Sylvain fucks them up a new one.

I've never wanted to slap a character more than I'd love to slap Claude right now. The moron has the audacity to be surprised people are going to die while he's invading a foreign country. What a fucking stupid moron.

He's also blaming - get this right - chivalry.

I'm like. I'm speechless right now.

That's right guys. Margrave Gautier died defending his king, his country, his home, and most importantly one of his fucking best friends from an asshole invader. But it's CULTURE'S fault he died.

I'm really confused what the hell Claude thinks he's doing. Does he REALLY think killing Rhea will magically allow people to live as they please? Didn't he grow up in another country where they had princes and shit and NO Rhea?? All he's doing is making Edelgard's take over easier.

This is starting to feel like a borderline spoof. Look at us end the war by invading another nation!!! I mean???

What's his plan? Kill everyone in Faerghus - profit - "freedom" from Rhea - Edelgard takes over - no profit???

The writing in this route has gotten really fucking stupid. Like, I LIKE the idea of evil!Claude. Either a Claude who wants to take over all of Fodlan or one who's ruthless and will do anything to preserve Leicester.

But what I don't like is really fucking dumb Claude, which is what GW's devolved into.

Oh, God, now we get a flashback between father and son. Sylvain and Gautier :(

Sylvain better not be fucking recruitable in this route.

Now Sylvain's in charge 😭😭😭😭

I'm convinced someone who's a major Edelgard stan wrote the larger plot of this, but then a Dimitri stan wrote the actual dialogue 😅

We really go from one moment Claude being like - it's Rhea's fault Gautier died bc Kingdom culture bad because church bad to Sylvain being like, naw, he died defending his friends.

At the very least, I'll give Hopes credit here. At least they didn't write anyone opposing Edelgard as either evil or like they're idiots for resisting invasion, but I almost feel like they made the Kingdom especially too sympathetic which makes Edelgard look more interesting (since SB is more honest than CF) and Claude just look like a bozo. Rhea just doesn't look like anything since she's not even here.

Though, I REALLY wish Claude didn't side with us in AG. I really wish we got to see Faerghus backed into a corner and kick everyone's asses. They've very much the underdog and watching them do that would've been awesome.

Felix and Rodrigue are beating themselves up over this.

See, this is what I mean - Sylvain just said he's reserving all his hatred for the foreign invaders who take everything for no reason - I really feel like a Dimitri fan saw how everyone collectively decided to take a dump on the Kingdom in the big plot and got revenge by making everyone look like villains (or morons in Claude's case) for doing so in the writing.

xxx

[mousegard]

Hello! I'm a big fan of your Edelgard fics, especially An Eagle Among Lions. I'm almost halfway through my first re-read of it, and I had a burning question about one of your plot points that I could never properly make sense of my first time through.

When Desdinova Claude died in his world, and his consciousness was shunted permanently into 'Fodlan Alpha' Claude's body, eventually causing full ego death for Fodlan Alpha Claude, why or how did Desdinova Claude then have his white hair and the Crest of Flames in Fodlan Alpha Claude's body? It's inconsistent with Edelgard's consciousness transference in that way. I had assumed that the difference in consistency with these two phenomenon is in the fact that Desdinova Claude had died in his world, but I'm just not certain that's the case. An Eagle Among Lions can be intensely cerebral at times, and I think perhaps I missed a detail somewhere? I love this story, and I want you to know that this prodding isn't just seeking to throw a plot hole up in your face, rather it is from a genuine desire to understand your work better. If you do not wish to explain this to me, simply informing me if I missed something or not would would be deeply appreciated, as I am currently rereading this fic (im at ch 38!)

Thanks for taking the time to read this! Have a good day!

thanks for asking! according to eal's timeline hopping mechanics, when the dead half of a time traveling pair takes control of the remaining living body, they are capable of manifesting the physical traits of their dead body. for example, if edelgard died in fodlan alpha and erased ellie after the lizard boot camp arc, it would be possible for her to manifest traits of her dragon form in fodlan beta. on the opposite end, if ellie were to die while in fodlan beta before the crest removal procedure, she would likely be able to manifest edelgard's twin crests in fodlan alpha just as desdinova can.

it's not confirmed that the dead half always causes the ego death of the live half, that was just claude's experience and he's the only data point. desdinova is "trust nobody, not even yourself" personified so it stands to reason that the two claudes ended up in a situation where the two minds couldn't coexist.

i suppose it's possible that a time traveling pair in this situation could end up in a sort of yami yugi situation instead or even a sothis/byleth or arval/shez situation depending on the state of mind both halves of the pair are in at the time. but it's a crapshoot and unfortunately desdinova just spends the entire fic drawing the worst possible hand all the time from a stacked deck until he can be freed from the cycle of the time loop that engineered his existence.

enjoy your reread! have fun with lizard boot camp!

[wolfraven80]

Ch 18: Edelgard and Byleth each face the aftermath of recent events.

[bayalexison]

[FE3H Fic] The Azure Queen, Ch 5

Snow Queen AU for Dimileth Trick or Treat. After their father was murdered, twins Byleth and Reus Eisner travel around Fodlan to investigate. During their search, they got ambushed by two demons and kidnap Reus.

Several years ago Prince Dimitri was sentenced to death, but that was a lie to the public. Instead he's a demon working for Cornelia until he reunites with Byleth. He joins with her group and they go rescue Reus together.

In this chapter, Byleth and her group made it to Fhirdiad and confront Cornelia. While there, they learn what her plans for Byleth and Reus are.

Excerpt: They eventually stopped and Dimitri gestured to the cell in front of them. Byleth's chest tightened as there was no one there. She glanced over her shoulder to see Balthus and Hapi's confused expressions as Dimitri's face stiffened.

"The cell is empty!" Balthus glared at Dimitri. "Are you sure this is the right cell, pal?"

"I am certain," Dimitri said with an unwavering voice.

"Are we too late, then?" Byleth asked.

"Sometimes the guards take Reus to another room for experiments. I have an idea which one. We should--"

"Halt, who goes there?"

You can read Chapter Five over at AO3!

[sevarix-blogs]

y'all know that engage byleth is pre-ts right??? I keep seeing stuff like "oh he's totally from vw/cf/etc" no he's absolutely not. he's from pre ts and he knows who that one side boss is in ch 26 bc he had dreams about him pre ts. there is literally no specific route he's from. he's just a professor. never saw the war happen.

in fact i think he came from right after the night of the ball before that Tragic Event happens.

[lilyway]

Heart of the Sea {Dimitri x F!Byleth} CH 1

Summary:

In Dimitri's youth, there were stories of merfolk along the coasts of Fodlan. Creatures of power that controlled the oceans. With a twist of fate, he manages to find himself saved by one. Unknown to him, they keep meeting time and time again. All through his youth, he kept meeting the girl with long pointed ears with eyes that reminded him of the ocean.

She's always there every summer, always as mysterious as the ocean, always fiddling with something. With her disappearance in their early teens, all the prince has is the jewel she left him. He's determined to find her and she's determined to kill the human she found accidentally tangling her fate with. Warnings: Child Endangerment. *Sylvain, Ingrid, Glenn, Dimitri and Byleth are children at the start*

Chapter 1: The Dangers of the Sea 

As the warm winds of summer swept through the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus, the house of Blaiddyd made the trip to their coastal manor by the northern coast. Their manor was in Fraldarius territory, the Duke Rodrigue Achille Fraldarius, was a close friend of the king and they often spent the summers together as one big family. Of course, it was just a refuge from the rigors of their royal responsibilities.

This summer was particularly rough on Faerghus and it made Lambert unable to walk away from his royal duties for a week or two. Such was life when it came to being a king of a nation. Sacrifices had to be made and as much as it bothered his son. Deep down, the crown prince would understand in time. When you’re king, your kingdom comes first before your family. 

That’s what King Lambert would’ve expected his son to do. However, Dimitri was over the moon to have the manor to himself and his closest friends. They would have the manor to themselves until this father appeared in three weeks' time. Until then, Dimitri would be under the care of Duke Rodrigue. Who would bring his two sons, Glenn and Felix. Count Gunnar would bring his daughter Ingrid. Their carriages would arrive days apart, however only Duke Rodrigue would stay as he waited for Lambert’s arrival. Gunnar trusted Rodrigue enough to entrust his daughter’s safety. Margrave Matthias, begrudgingly allowed his youngest son Sylvain to come – he couldn’t deny a request from Lambert. 

Crown Prince Dimitri was the last one to arrive at his family's summer manor. The air carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers, now that they were finally free from the thick layers of snow. Dimitri had his eyes glued to the window of his carriage watching the scenery slowly change to a similar one. 

The large manor quickly came into view as Rodrigue waited outside for the prince with the children waiting a few feet behind him. Ingrid was standing in front of the boys waving at the carriage as it approached. Sylvain quickly joined in and started yelling that his carriage was so slow that he could probably outrun it. His comment made Glenn snicker as Felix seemed ever so stoic. 

The children quickly ran off when Dimitri officially arrived and greeted Rodrigue. They’d hardly spend any time apart outside of getting their needed sleep for the night. Studying, training, and exploring the area around the manor together. The kids were inseparable. Especially Ingrid and Glenn who were engaged by the time Ingrid was born. Sylvain was glued to Felix and Dimitri as the boys led the group. 

During the evenings the children would sit around the fire of the reading room and tell stories. Myths, scary stories, or just whatever fun story they read. They’d take turns every night to spin their stories however they liked and often they were always stories of heroic knights. However, tonight Sylvain had something different in store. The tale Sylvain had spun was one of horror, man-eating monsters that lived around the shores of Fodlan’s coasts. Creatures that ate the flesh of men and made wives into widows. Explaining the dangers of traveling by boat and how the ships were wrecked or abandoned without a soul on board. It had left the trio of younger children shaking and jumpy. 

The children wanted a happy story to lull them to sleep and Glenn was happy to oblige them with the original tale. Glenn gave Sylvain a good headlock squeeze until the poor boy was apologizing to the group. 

The tale went like this. 

During Fodlan’s founding years, there were sightings of merfolk along the shoreline of Adrestia. Powerful creatures were born with an excess of power and an appearance that seemed to lure people into the sea. They were powerful enough to stop any ship from crossing the ocean and controlled the shorelines. 

However, when Nemesis started his war against the cruel and wicked gods of the land the merfolk aided him. They created relics that slayed them with ease and disappeared. Even with their disappearances, they had left them the relics and prayers for their success. 

Sometimes, those with a pure heart may see a merfolk on the coastline of any of the three major powers. 

Glenn's maturing voice seemed to lull most of the children to sleep as Sylvain let out a dramatic yawn. “ Annd , everyone’s asleep. Glenn the sleep master strikes again !” 

The older boys went to their routine of finding something to keep their friends warm and comfortable as they laid on the fluffy rug. “I wouldn’t call myself a ‘sleep master’,” Glenn replied with a goofy smile. “It’s already late and they were already tired.”

“So, you told them that lame story?” Sylvain wasn’t fond of the original tale, it made the idea of beautiful mermaids too appealing. 

Glenn let out a heartful chuckle. “Perhaps, if someone didn’t frighten them. I wouldn’t have to.” 

Sylvain had a grin plastered on his face and it told Glenn he was going to be subjected once again to Sylvain’s mischief. "So, Glenn, do you really   think there are no blood-sucking mermaids out there?"

Glenn chuckled, his perfect knight persona never cracking as he picked up Ingrid. "What proof do you have, Sylvain?"

"The shipwrecks off Leicester’s coast! Survivors said they saw mermaids luring their men into the sea," Sylvain retorted, his eyes sparkling with excitement. Glenn sighed, he really thought that was proof enough to convince him. 

"Those same people claimed they saw sea dragons. Those aren't mermaids, Sylvain. Those are sirens," Glenn calmly explained. There was a part of the squire, who wished to have his friend’s childishness. 

Sylvain dismissed the distinction with a pout, "Who cares? There's no difference."

"There's plenty," Glenn insisted. "I remember my father saying they investigated those deaths."

"Were their bodies ever found?" Sylvain inquired, leaning in with a glint of curiosity. Glenn had to step back to keep Sylvain's face away from Ingrid. 

Glenn, his gaze serious, replied, "No bodies were ever found.” 

“Told you! Mermaids got to them!” Sylvain’s triumphant grin made it impossible for Glenn to respond, telling him how incorrect he was. 

“Just help me get them to bed.” They were about to leave to fetch a servant to help them. When Rodrigue was at the door about to knock, when they opened it. 

Rodrigue took the young prince and left his youngest to Sylvain to carry back. Even though Sylvain was walking a few steps behind Rodrigue and Glenn something was bubbling in his core. Something vile that made him feel incompetent when he stared at Glenn. But, when his eyes shifted to Ingrid there was envy or maybe it was jealousy that she was so close to him. 

All of his friends idolized him, hell, he did too. Glenn was the perfect knight in the making and he was born lucky to have his crest. The crest that was ruining his life, made Glenn even more perfect. Sylvain hoped, maybe the morning would be kinder to him and make him forget his shortcomings. But, Glenn made them difficult to ignore. 

♣

The morning came with promises of taking a trip to the beach with everything it had to offer. This trip to the beach wouldn’t be a normal one, it was an adventure skywards on the backs of pegasuses. Traveling up to the clouds to the caves of the cove. It would be a memorable adventure that’s for sure. 

However, Dimitri and his friends soon discovered these creatures were known to be fickle. Particularly, when it came to men. The preference for female riders was evident, but the children, undeterred, sought to befriend the winged creatures.

Rodrigue, recognizing the need for supervision, took on the responsibility of guiding the children on their Pegasus-riding expedition. Explaining in detail how to gain the animals trust and affection. That it would take time and he'd half expected it to take a few hours. 

It served as a momentary escape from his duties, a chance to indulge in the simple joys of the beach near the manor. The soft sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters created a picturesque backdrop for a cup of tea and a good book.

As the children approached the pegasuses, each displayed their unique approach to gaining the creatures' trust. Ingrid, with her natural affinity for animals, effortlessly mounted her pegasus, showcasing an instant connection. Sylvain, though gifted with horses of the grounded variety, struggled to appease the fickle creature beneath him. Dimitri, embodying a surprising softness, worked diligently to build the trust of his companion. 

Glenn chose to stay by Sylvain's side, a decision rooted in their desire to protect the group. As the oldest amongst them, they felt the responsibility to protect them. Recognizing that they made their decision and chose to delay their fun. As the best swimmers in the group, they positioned themselves closest to the water and chose to act as potential lifeguards. 

Ingrid and Dimitri, with bright wide smiles, sat atop their pegasuses, radiating joy that warmed Rodrigue's heart. The sense of accomplishment was evident as Rodrigue held onto the reins, watching over the children with a sense of pride.

“Felix, are you coming?” Dimitri called out to his friend, who stood on the sidelines with his arms crossed, a clear sign of his reluctance.

Ingrid, always trying to encourage her friends, motioned her steed toward Felix. “Come on, Felix! Stop sulking ,” She scolded, leaning over to offer him a hand up on her pegasus.

Felix, however, remained steadfast in his refusal. "There's no way I'm getting on one of those things," He spat, a stubborn scowl on his face. Even the animal felt bad for the child and nudged him with her snout. 

Ingrid, determined to change his mind, insisted, “She's more than gentle. You're not going to fall, I promise.” 

Before Felix could retort, Glenn, demonstrating his supportive nature, jogged over. “She's right, Felix. You'll be fine. I'll be right behind you.” With that, he effortlessly lifted Felix and placed him behind Ingrid.

"You'll have fun," Dimitri chimed in with a carefree smile, trying to lighten the mood. "Ease up a little, Felix."

“Shut it.” Felix's poor behavior made Ingrid shoot him with a dirty look. 

Felix’s words made Dimitri’s smile widen. “Trust me. You’ll have fun.” 

“Whatever.” 

Felix grumbled but begrudgingly held onto Ingrid as the Pegasus began to move. In the air, surrounded by the gentle beat of wings and the expansive view of the beach below, Felix's initial resistance seemed to fade. Ingrid shot him a look, silently urging him to relax and enjoy the experience.

Ingrid, leading the way with grace and confidence, guided her Pegasus through the open skies. Dimitri closely trailing behind, trying to not be left behind. The older kids watched, their eyes filled with a mix of awe and anticipation, knowing that they too would be able to join in the fun. Sylvain and Glenn, with promises made, prepared to return to their horses and went back to the endless fight to gain their trust. 

As Ingrid and Dimitri soared over the water, they chose the scenic route, the vast expanse of the ocean stretching out beneath them. The horses, if the children were tall enough, they might have been able to graze the surface of the ocean with their hands. The smell of saltwater hung thick in the wind, blending with the excitement of soaring through the sky.

The two Pegasuses raced each other, their powerful wings slicing through the air. Dimitri, focused and occasionally glancing back to check on Ingrid and Felix, as he urged his horse to go faster. The competitive spirit between them made them unable to notice their recklessness. As they traveled further into the open sea, the shoreline seemed to vanish behind them. 

Ingrid had managed to help Felix overcome his initial fear. He was no longer clinging to her waist in terror and looking around him. The group's laughter and shouts echoed over the waves as they reveled in their fun. The group seemed completely unaware of the danger they were actively flying into. 

The once-clear sky began to darken ominously, too quickly to be natural. The black skies formed quickly to consume the bright blues. It was a clear sign to most that the weather was changing and changing quickly. However, the children being too immersed in their fun and giggling failed to notice. 

Finally being able to soothe their mounts, Glenn and Sylvain were quick to mount and chase after their friends. They had to call them back and tell them their trip to the beach was cut short. There seemed to be a nasty storm rolling in and that made travel by Pegasus dangerous. 

The urgency in the older boys' voices cut through their fun. “Your Highness! Felix! Ingrid!” Their voices reached Ingrid and Felix's ears as they raced through the skies. “Turn around! Go back to the beach! It’s not safe!”

The warning reached them successfully,  prompting Ingrid and Felix to turn their Pegasuses around. Dimitri, a few yards ahead, was blissfully unaware of the impending danger as the others desperately tried to get his attention. Dimitri glanced back and realized that his friends had stopped. They had their hands cupped over their mouths, hoping that their voices would reach them. There something was wrong and Dimitri couldn't help but looked up to see the storm quickly rolling in and stopping his mount. 

Dimitri was quick to turn back around and fly back to his friends. The closer he got the clearer the warning became. Dimitri finally saw the concern etched on his friends' faces. Although he couldn't hear their words, the urgency in their gestures made him urge his Pegasus to fly faster. The skies, once clear, began to darken at an unnatural speed, a foreboding sign that echoed Sylvain's tales from the night before.

"Ingrid, turn around!" Dimitri shouted, remembering the stories of mermaids and the potential dangers they might face in the gathering storm.

Ingrid always steadfast kept her pegasus from returning to safety. Waiting for Dimitri even with her own fears telling her to leave. 

Felix, equally alarmed, insisted, "We should go back." The darkening skies and the ominous wave approaching heightened the sense of urgency.

Dimitri, speeding back, noticed something swimming under the waves following him. Whatever, it seemed interested in what was happening above the water. Its presence only seemed to scare the young prince. His mind was already focusing on Sylvain’s story. Made the prince pray that it wasn’t one of those horrific monsters. 

Ingrid, torn between her concern for Dimitri and the impending danger, hesitated. "We have to wait for His Highness," She insisted, Dimitri was on his way back to them and they could go back as a group. 

However, before they could react further, a large wave emerged from the turbulent sea, terrifying the already skittish horses. The sudden appearance of the wave spooked the Pegasuses, causing them to rear up, throwing Ingrid and Felix off their backs. 

The sudden assault of the large wave left Ingrid and Felix struggling in the open sea, their Pegasuses now gone, carried away by fear. Dimitri, too, found himself in the merciless grip of the ocean as a massive wave nipped at his Pegasus's legs, sending it and him plunging into the churning waters.

The young prince, now in the heart of the tempest, fought against the fierce currents, swimming with all his might towards the distant shore. The waves, however, seemed determined to drag him under, testing his resolve and strength. In the midst of this struggle, something elusive swam beneath him, a shadowy presence that avoided his gaze.

As Dimitri pressed on, the ocean threatened to consume him. Felix emerged from the turbulent waters, providing a glimmer of relief. However, Ingrid was still missing, lost to the depths of the sea. The desperation took hold of Dimitri as he screamed her name, his voice carried away by the howling winds.

The older boys couldn’t get there fast enough as they watched their friends struggle. Glenn in his bravery fought the terrified animal and kept moving forward. Sylvain did his best to follow, but he had more trouble controlling the terrified animal. 

"Ingrid! Ingrid?" Dimitri called out, the worry etched across his face. 

Without a moment's hesitation, Dimitri took a deep breath and dove under the waves in search of her. Felix was following behind before Glenn scooped him into his arms and hugged him tightly. He could feel his older brother’s trembling body and couldn’t help looking up at his face. Glenn’s reddish-orange eyes made Felix freeze. He’d never seen the look of pure fear on his brother’s face.  Felix attempted to free himself from his brother's grip, but when he looked back at his brother's eyes – he froze. 

The chaotic dance between the ocean and its unwilling guests continued, each wave carrying the weight of uncertainty and the hope for Ingrid's safe return. Sylvain was kicking himself for telling that stupid story. It felt like the world was punishing him for scaring his friends. It didn’t help that he was terrified and unable to think clearly. 

Sylvain’s guilt only increased when Dimitri disappeared under a wave. He was there a moment ago and now he too was gone. Dimitri went after Ingrid and decided to search for her. They were both nowhere to be seen disappearing into the deep blues of the ocean. 

Glenn, feeling the urgency of the situation, took charge and shoved his brother towards Sylvain's horse before plunging into the sea himself. Sylvain, scrambling to get the wet and shaken Felix onto his horse, could only watch as Glenn swam further out in search of their missing friends.

“Glenn!" Sylvain shouted desperately. "Where do you think you're going?"

Glenn paused for a moment, pointing back to the beach. "Take care of my brother. I'm going to find His Highness and Ingrid." With that, Glenn swam away, following the direction Dimitri had disappeared into.

"I could come with you too..." Sylvain offered, but Glenn had already set his course. 

With a heavy heart, Sylvain returned to the beach as Rodrigue checked over any injuries Felix may have sustained. The fleeting reassurance didn't last long, and Felix could feel his father wrapping him in a cape. Rodrigue leaving his son in Sylvain’s care rushed after the missing children. Leaving Sylvain with his guilt and only being able to keep Felix with him. Fighting him to keep him on the beach with him and not chasing after his father.

♣ 

In the depths of the sea, a curious mermaid gazed up at the surface, her eyes reflecting a certain detachment. It was like she never had experienced any emotion in her life, not even her curiosity was shown on her face. Her grandmother's warning echoed in her mind—never to involve herself in the affairs of the surface world. Yet, a spark of curiosity ignited within her, propelling her to disregard the cautionary words. She quickly found herself following the shadows above. 

She raced through the dark waters, following the trajectory of the pegasuses, oblivious to the invisible barrier her grandmother had woven to protect their underwater realm. The young mermaid swam deeper and deeper, her fascination driving her to breach the boundaries that separated their world from the surface.

As she observed the group above, the mermaid's expression remained inscrutable. She couldn't fathom why these beings would be so foolhardy, venturing deep into the ocean. There were stories of what her grandmother did to fools who trespassed on their territory. The storm that brewed above only intensified her confusion. The mermaid, caught between her curiosity and the wisdom of what was unfolding made her unable to pull herself away. 

It was an unfortunate affair as she watched their struggles from above, unable to aid them in any way. She half expected something larger to fall into the depths and be dragged further under. Instead, a girl, slightly younger than the mermaid herself, with golden hair, was being pulled down into the depths of the ocean.

The helpless girl struggled against the relentless currents, fighting for her life as the ocean threatened to consume her. The mermaid, detached yet not untouched by a sense of empathy, watched as the struggle continued, and the girl eventually succumbed to exhaustion, slipping into unconsciousness.

Intrigued and concerned, the mermaid swam closer, her ethereal form moving effortlessly through the water. The unconscious girl, with her long golden hair, loosened out of its braid, made her seem like she had a halo of her own. The young mermaid couldn’t help admiring her beauty as she approached. She was gorgeous and beloved by the gods to be born with her appearance. Well, she didn't have any other human girls to compare her to. But, she was pretty. 

Don't help her, Byleth. Don't help her. Grandmother will lecture you, Byleth. She was wrestling with her moral compass and the long lecture that would come from helping a human girl. Despite every reason to not help the girl, Byleth chose to. Her empathy and curiosity pushed her to assist and hope she didn’t die by the time she managed to get her to the surface. She did fear her grandmother's wraith when she returned home. But, that was a problem for later. 

As Byleth reached the mysterious girl and grasped hold of her arm, a remarkable change occurred. The relentless current that had threatened to claim the girl's life suddenly dissipated, leaving them in a tranquil pocket of the vast ocean. Byleth's had successfully intervened. But, she wasn't able to celebrate yet. She still had to get her to safety. 

The mysterious girl, now free from the perilous pull of the ocean, floated in the calm waters. Byleth observed her with a mixture of curiosity and concern, wondering about the implications of her actions and the potential consequences that might follow. Her grandmother must've felt her interference with her magic and there would be hell to pay. 

Byleth, swimming towards the surface with the rescued girl in tow, was met with a shocking sight as she breached the water. A young boy, with the same golden hair as the girl and the darkest sapphire blue eyes she had ever seen, stood before her. The currents seemed to have favored him, allowing the girl to be freed but now asserting their force around the boy.

There was another boy following after him with dark blue locks that seemed to almost match the shadows of dark blue sea. That’s when the idea struck her and using a similar current that her grandmother was using pushed them upward. Pulling the pair back to the surface and keeping them there. It allowed her to rescue their friend without the worry of more joining into his potentially watery grave. Byleth would rescue this boy and maybe, tell her grandmother a piece of her mind. This was too cruel even if her actions were justified. 

Byleth, propelled by a mix of determination and urgency, chased after the golden-haired boy. With a hand outstretched to grasp his, she reached him just as the relentless currents threatened to continue pulling him under. However, a strong hit to his hand, the boy’s hand felt limp along with the rest of his body. Momentarily dazed her, it was a harsh hit to the head too. The boy's now limp form was dragged deeper, leaving the taste of iron in the water.

She had to save him quickly. Byleth knew the imminent danger of sharks that would be drawn to the iron in the water. She fought against her grandmother's lingering magic, which sought to keep the boy submerged. Byleth's efforts prevailed, and she managed to release the boy from the grasp of the underwater current. Pulling him into her chest, she heaved upwards, determined to bring him to safety.

Byleth’s powerful tail propelling them towards a hidden cove nearby. The rocky sands provided some semblance of safety against the unpredictable ocean. Struggling against the weight of the unconscious boy, Byleth dragged herself onto the rocks. Byleth struggled to carry him farther, he was heavier than he looked.

In the hidden cove, where the storm's tempestuous reach was held at bay, Byleth took a moment to catch her breath. The boy, now safely on dry land, showed no signs of recovery. Panic crept into Byleth's thoughts as she observed his lifeless form, his condition worsening by the moment. 

Pulling herself upright, Byleth wasted no time. She placed an ear on the boy's chest, listening intently. The slow and weakening heartbeat and the rapidly dropping body temperature heightened her concern. The urgency of the situation pressed upon her, and she knew that swift action was required to save the boy's life.

With determination, Byleth placed her hands on his chest and began compressions, pushing down on his ribs. The rhythmic compressions were a desperate attempt to expel the water from his lungs and restore the breath of life to his unconscious form. Even with all her effort, the boy didn’t improve. 

In a desperate attempt to save the unconscious boy, Byleth drew upon the cherished story of her grandmother saving her father. A tale of a mermaid’s blood being able to save those on the edge of life and death. A mermaid’s blood is stronger than any healing magic. The tale, a favorite from her childhood, filled her with hope that her blood might possess similar life-saving qualities.

Resolute and determined, Byleth cut her palm with her sharp nails, allowing her blood to well up. Holding onto the faith instilled by her father's story, she carefully let a few drops fall into the boy's mouth. As the droplets touched his lips, she could only hope that the mysterious properties of her blood would work their magic and bring him back from the brink.

In a moment of determined resolve, Byleth, drawing upon the intriguing tidbits of human anatomy her father had shared, took a direct and unconventional approach to ensure the unconscious boy swallowed the life-saving blood. With a wry acknowledgment of the practicality in her father's seemingly useless knowledge, she licked her wounded palm, tasting the iron that had accumulated, and sucked on it, preparing herself for the critical task at hand.

Her own discomfort was a fleeting concern in the face of the urgent need to save someone else's life. With a gentle lift of the boy's chin to create a slight tilt to his head, Byleth leaned down and sealed his lips with hers. She had never kissed another person before and the action felt beyond strange. 

As Byleth pushed her blood into the boy's mouth, the culmination of her efforts manifested in a blinding light. A sapphire gem appeared, resting on the boy's chest, radiating an otherworldly glow. It was a moment of enchantment and made Byleth reach out to touch the jewel. The gem was cold and hurt to the touch. However, the boy seemed unaffected. Placing it back into his hands and curling his fingers around it. 

Byleth could feel her magic intertwining with the boy's life, a dance of energies that defied explanation. The jumbled and tangled sensations filled her with a burning feeling in her chest, making each breath a challenge. Enduring her own pain, she watched as the boy's chest began to rise and fall. The magic had worked, and she had somehow managed to bring him back. She really had the same magical blood as her grandmother. 

Pride and joy swelled within her as she realized the success of her unconventional efforts. However, the imminent arrival of footsteps and voices reminded her of the harsh reality that humans were not always kind to her people. With a sense of caution, Byleth retreated to the sea, hiding behind a rock to observe what would happen next. 

An older man rushed to the boy's side, lifting him up and dragging him out of the cove. Byleth, hidden yet observant, slightly followed their route back to the beach. She watched them until they all left the bridge. The older boy was holding onto the golden-haired girl tightly. A younger boy, perhaps a sibling, held onto his brother’s soaked shirt looking at the sea with anger. Byleth watched as another boy with flaming red hair, kept his head to the ground as he jogged up to their caretaker. 

Observing from her vantage point, Byleth noted that they all seemed to be alright. The older boy with dark blue hair appeared overjoyed when the girl regained consciousness. As her eyes scanned the surroundings, Byleth seized the opportunity to make her exit. She swam away from her safety rock, diving back into the ocean with a splash.

Though Byleth's departure didn't go unnoticed, the girl, still struggling to focus her eyes on the ocean, tried to make sense of what had happened. In her shaky vision, she thought she saw a tail attached to a human torso. Coughing and uncertain, she couldn't be sure, and her consciousness faded once again at the lull of her friend's beating heart.

Byleth had no idea what she caused with her good deed. 

If she had the knowledge of what she would cause. 

Maybe, she would’ve left them to drown. 

[ashnwolves]

Last Sentence Tag Game: Write the latest line from your wip (or post where you last left off in your art) and tag as many people as there are words in the line. Make a new post, don’t reblog.

@nowis-scales tagged me in this MONTHS ago. I am so sorry it's taken me so long. This is an excerpt from a FE3H Persona AU I started writing, though I dunno if I'll finish it.

The girl smiles at Byleth, radiant and disarmingly wide. "My name is Corrin," she explains, serene in her green uniform. Her long hair, so blonde that it verges on white, flows over her shoulders and hangs down her back much like a fairytale princess. "My mistress has been kind in lending you the services of this room." Byleth's eyes flit across to Sothis, who stares down at him upon her throne with appraising eyes. "She's your mistress? But she's a ch—" "Go on, say it! I dare you." "If you need more information about a Persona," Corrin continues breezily, carefully-controlled enthusiasm behind her words, "feel free to let me know! That's what this book's for, after all. I can't see the world outside the Velvet Room, so I'd like to help in any way I can." Her offer is a welcome one, though Byleth still gets the nagging sense that she feels out of place. Then again, so does the room existing outside of reality and the mysterious girl with power over time. Nothing makes sense.

Three words there, so I'm going to tag three people who always seem to have some creative work in-progress. @wanderingnightingale @circle-bircle @yupuffin

[jtavington]

Opening of Ch. 11

Not really much going on but the Catholic in me has been wanting to write these paragraphs for a While.

“So, as you can see, the liquid holds great potential. It’s ability to power devices such as forges far outclasses simple firewood.”

“I see.” Edelgard could almost see Byleth’s brow furrow. “You say previous archbishops forbade research into this…oil, was it? Did they give a reason?”

“According to the records, they were afraid we would blow ourselves up or kill ourselves fighting over the deposits. Not dissimilar from the worries about modified saltpeter.”

“I see,” Byleth said again. It was impossible to discern her tone. “We would fight over it as we do farmland or water now. My predecessor was right in that it could cause unbelievable strife.” She paused. However, this oil could alleviate want in other ways. The Goddess created all things in heaven and earth. This was found in the earth. Therefore, it cannot be evil in and of itself. We will praise the good and censure the evil done with this new invention, but the church will no longer forbid knowledge outright. This goes for all previously forbidden research.”

Centuries of tradition changed with a word. Edelgard wished she could see the faces of those in the audience chamber instead of being squished behind the throne in case Byleth needed her. Byleth rarely did these days. Becoming Archbishop in truth had imbued her with fire and certainty she hadn’t had at the Academy. There had been exhortations to welcome the foreigner, and Cyril had become the first Almyran to be laid to rest in the Tomb of the Knights. A vast number of clerics from families of no special distinction had been tapped to fill leadership roles left vacant by the war. Edlegard had been the one to force her to get some sleep as she worked on an encyclical stressing the primacy of bodily autonomy. She was, in short, busy creating the sort of world Edelgard had hoped to forge.

With two exceptions.

The church was not extinct, nor subservient to the Empire. In some ways it was stronger than it had been at any time since Wilhelm. That Empire was beaten. If it hadn’t quite been subsumed into the Kingdom as Rhea had wished, it at least took its orders from Kingdom generals. Its de facto monarch was the head of the church Edelgard had declared war upon in the first place. The world had gone topsy turvy and Edelgard was as lost as everyone else.

[fireemblems24]

Azure Gleam Ch 14

I feel sad knowing this route is almost over :(

NARRATION

As much as Claude is annoying me right now, it's cool to see Faerghus, the Alliance, and the church all team up.

So it looks like we're fighting Caspar and Bergliez again. It's so much easier on me to kill the Empire characters lol.

It's so funny that all the Empire characters know something is weird with Edelgard, but are like "I'm still fighting anyways."

Is there any explanation of what happened to her? Or is this just a cope out so the war keeps going without making her into a flat-out evil.

Bergliez tells Caspar to run away. He's not though. And honestly, I don't want him. Not Hopes!Caspar at least. Brgliez keeps trying though, which guess he gets some dad points? Maybe? I like him more than Holst.

He compares what they're doing to captains that go down with their ship. So needless death. Ship captains have no choice, but they do and they keep fighting. Poor taste.

They're heading for the monastery. Shocking. I know. /s

I love how in the other routes, I protect Aegir. In this one, I'm sure I'll get to kill him. Feels good.

They talk strategy.

I honestly appreciate that this games goes a bit more into strategy. It's not super detailed, but more than Fire Emblem usually does lol.

Arval is like, ok, it's my turn. The suggestion is to just strike everyone all at once.

She's like, we've got the stronger army, let's act like it. I like that kind of thinking.

Felix calls Shez a boar lol. Says we have too boars in this army.

SIDE BATTLES/MAP

Shez tried to sympathize with Linhardt about possibly fighting Caspar and he's like "it doesn't really bother me" lol.

Felix admires Berlgeiz however the fuck you spell his name because he finds the sense of duty to the Empire despite it being a giant fuck up right now admirable. Coming from Felix, that's hysterical. I wish Shez had the option to tease Felix about it lol.

A scholar just said Dimitri appreciates their input (calculating how much food and raw materials is needed etc) unlike many other leaders. Happy to see more Dimitri praise in this game.

Petra once knocked Duke Aegir on his ass for insulting her father. I wonder if you get to learn this amazing piece of Petra lore in other routes or if this is an AG exclusive badassery.

Ok, so some random church NPC talked about how killing Edelgard would end the Emperor bloodline because there's rumors all her siblings are dead. Her backstory is really so weird. How would people not know about a bunch of dead princes and princesses?

Yuri is religious? He says he has a habit of praying before a big event, something he does because his mother did. I like it when characters add something unexpected to them that the usual stereotype of that character doesn't usually have.

If Hubert came up with "those who slither in the dark" as a nickname, how come everyone uses it? Even people who wouldn't know Hubert at all like Flayn?

Lorenz was just talking up how smart Claude is and all I can think is that GW!Claude isn't smart enough to find his way out of a wet paper bag.

I just got all of Shez's Blue Lions supports unlocked. Now I need to still get Flayn, Seteth, Catherine, Jeralt, and Byleth. I'm not sure I have enough time. But I'm going to try.

Duke Aegir is Thales' puppet. So TWSITD is ruling the Empire.

Edelgard just mindlessly listens to Aegir and Thales.

This lady turned on the Empire big time. Dimitri says he's still throwing her into a cell, lol.

Dimitri believes what she said though. He brings up the evidence he discovered while investigating in White Clouds. And also uses the Tomas situation as more evidence.

Dimitri now knows that his father, the knights, and the citizens of Duscur would all be alive without those mages.

He says they have the right to seek justice in the way they see fit. I love it. Not apologizing for defending themselves, but owning taking the initiative against TWSITD.

And there's a lot of people in the Blue Lions who has a personal beef with TWSITD.

I can finally give Dimitri the merc whistle! He also had a second set of dialogue on the map this chapter. It was about some Empire general we captured.

SHEZ & FELIX A

This one starts on a battlefield instead of training. Still very Felix.

And they're complimenting each other. Felix is complimenting someone. But it's their swordfighting so . . .

Shez is beginning to understanding Felix, saying he assigns a role to himself and carries it out. Which, she's not wrong.

Felix credits Rodrigue for his skill, lol. He also just complimented Rodrigue. Good for Felix.

His style is passed down in Fraldarius for generations. Because they're so tight. Man, the Dimitri/Felix yaoi writes itself.

Shez calls him indispensable to Dimitri and everyone. Felix is the lance and shield. Shez is the projectile like an arrow or stone.

She tells him to be more direct with compliments, Felix gets annoyed, but then says Shez is important to the army too.

Felix says Shez can't stay focused in battle - like she has someone talking to her in her head. More proof on how perceptive Felix is.

Also kudos to Byleth for Felix never noticing the same, which, imo, is perfectly in character for Byleth and Shez.

Shez is actually happy to know that Felix knows her so well that she spotted it. Since she gets sappy, Felix goes tsundere is like "I'm never complimenting you again!" Congrats, Shez, it means you're one of his people now if he's that emotionally fickle with you lamo.

This support was mostly just Shez and Felix gushing over how good the other is at fighting and how important they are to the group as a whole. I loved it. AG!Shez must be so much happier and more grounded than poor SB!Shez.

SHEZ & DIMITRI A

Dimitri is on break, but also depressed. Shez is concerned. Of course, it's because Dimitri can't relax. Other people are working, so he feels bad that he's not.

Shez asks why Dimitri is so insistent on it. Dimitri says it's the only way he knows how to be. That his life has never belonged to him because of his birthright.

Aaaaand of course the tragedy comes up, saying that makes him feel responsible too. So it's rooted partly in trauma :(

I can disagree or sympathize with him. Not sure which. I think I'm going to disagree, that it's not all his responsibility.

Ohh, Shez says he needs to trust people who wants to help.

Dimitri wants to ease the pain of the dead and living. That he'll have to make sacrifices to reach that goal, but doesn't want anyone else to suffer because of his goals. So he must carry the burden alone.

Shez is like, what about you're suffering and pain. That he can't care for others if he doesn't care for himself first.

Dimitri's like, I don't know how to respond to that - but like earnestly doesn't know. He doesn't know how to take care of his own pain nor what happiness would look like for him.

(God, this support is just making me love AM even more in retrospect, knowing that Dimitri gets to learn all of this, an my God wouldn't it be awesome if there was some kind of AG/AM blend that included this support somewhere in the middle)

Shez is like, how can you not know that? Asks what makes him smile? Like defeating a rival or a banquet.

Dimitri doesn't think he has the right to such happiness.

Good, God, Dimitri. He says he can only think of his death and leaving happy citizens and a peaceful kingdom behind.

Lord, nobody knows how much I love this. Like, not for Dimitri, boy needs therapy asap, and I want him to just be happy.

But, as a avid anime/manga and fantasy fan, do you know how many snot-nosed spoiled chosen ones and royalty and nobles I've come across who bitch and moan endlessly about their privileges lives because it comes with responsibilities and how they want to be a commoner with NO FUCKING IDEA what it's like to work day in and day out for someone who doesn't really care about you and will just replace you if convenient but your entire livelihood is dependent on spending most of your able-bodies life slaving away for them? Not to mention - back then - it would likely be some backbreaking work with shitty working conditions and no modern medicine or workers rights? It's so infuriating. Sometime they have a point, like pressure or whatever, but the older I get, the less I sympathize with their whining.

But Dimitri is like the exact opposite. He can't even be an individual away from his role at a leader because he's thrown too much of himself into it with no complaining at all. It's just so refreshing to see something the exact opposite of how this usually plays out, and is so much more interesting to explore than the same old for the xnth time.

Shez is like, you're dismal sometimes, she's not wrong. And is like why is death what makes me happy. Dimitri sounds like he doesn't even get that it sounded dismal while saying it.

She's like, what about partying with friends! Dimitri's like, wasted on me. But he says seeing his friends smile does make him happy.

Shez is annoyed with him lol. And is like, k, I'll just have to work twice as hard.

"You're going to take a break. And by the goddess, you're going to like it." I actually laughed. God, I love Shez.

She's like, you need to leave the office, bud. Dimitri says no words can express his gratitude.

I love their friendship so much. Like, I honestly don't think I ship it? I think they're just really tight friends, which Dimitri is such a shipping magnet, it's nice to see something as just pure friendship.

This is by far my favorite lord/Shez dynamic. Though, I think I ship Shez most with Byleth and I haven't even seen their supports yet.

ASHE & RAPHAEL C

Raphael is eating a lot. Shocking.

Raphael opened an inn??? And he's the cook. But he never gets compliments on his cooking, which makes him think his food tastes bad. He confesses that he doesn't know how to cook.

Ashe volunteers to teach Raphael how to cook.

Ashe thinks one of the best feelings in the world is when someone likes the food you cook.

Ashe test tries Raphael's food, which is just a pile of meat lol. Raphael doesn't understand why people would want anything else.

He describes Raphael's food like bacon wrapped around a salt lick lamo.

Unlike the Empire which won't eat their veggies like a bunch of spoiled brats, Ashe is promoting healthy veggie eating and understands food is best when you match complimentary flavors, including veggies, those Empire heathens.

Poor Raphael gets confused. Ashe talks about seasoning, and Raphael thinks like spring, summer, etc . . . and not like garlic.

Ashe is determined to help though.

Fairly wholesome support.

ASHE & INGRID B

They only got 1 support :(

Ingrid's troubled. Ashe notices. But she denies it.

Ashe encourages Ingrid to talk to him.

Ingrid's amazed by how fertile the lands are. And it's Faerghus lands. It's because of lack of snow and lots of fields.

Both Ashe and Ingrid notice things like the wheat fields.

Ingrid basically lives on rocks. So, hard to grow food.

Ashe thinks the effort will pay off later, even if Ingrid doesn't live long enough to see the results.

Ashe was quoting King Loog. Ingrid notices, lol. They start geeking out a bit. I love Ashe and Ingrid geeking out.

Dagda apparently also has soil issues. They have a crop they can grow despite that, but can't remember the name, but thinks Shamir might know. So Ingrid has hope she can learn it.

Ashe says he's just helping her as a friend, not a knight.

He can relate to being hungry because he grew up poor.

INGRID & ANNETTE B

Annette is trying to convince herself to grab something and run. Ingrid accidentally scares her. It's dark outside, so Annette's likely afraid of ghosts or something lol.

Of course, Annette wants a book she left in the mess hall. A woman after my own heart, braving fear because of love of a book.

Ingrid was heading there too. Annette's like this is destiny.

It's so dark even Ingrid gets spooked, but not as much as Annette. Who runs into a pile of crates lol.

Ingrid asks Annette if she's afraid of the dark. And poor Annette is, but really wishes she wasn't.

Ingrid, though, isn't afraid of the dark or ghosts. Annette is fascinated how Ingrid isn't afraid of ghosts.

Ingrid's brothers used to tell her those stories, but Ingrid thinks it's proof ghosts isn't real because you'd run into them more.

Ingrid actually wishes ghosts were real, because then she'd be able to talk to the dead still. But accepts that the dead are dead.

Annette circles that back to living while you're still alive.

Annette decides to walk back by herself to conquer her fears.

Ingrid is impressed with Annette's attitude.

INGRID & DEDUE A

This is a support I'm very curious about. It's their only one, but it's A. Plus, this game has handled Ingrid and Duscur much better.

Dedue has "brought substance" - it's just a cream puff lol.

Ingrid is happy with the timing. She's writing reports on their last fight in the Duscur region. And thinks it'll be a while until things stabilize.

Both Ingrid and Dedue agree that the Kingdom and Duscur have good and bad people. Ingrid gets upset over the innocent people getting lumped into the bad ones.

Dedue says he used to hate Faerghus, but meeting the nice people like Dimitri and others has made him expand his views.

People used to throw stones at Dedue - and Dimitri too :(

Ingrid says she would've remained gnorant about Duscur if she'd never meant Dedue.

Dedue says he finds Ingrid's willingness to change admirable. Ingrid admits she has a long way to go still.

She invites Dedue to go get a snack together and suggests an inn that Dimitri suggested with good food, owned by someone from Duscur. Pretty sure that was mentioned in her support with him.

Dedue is just pissed that Dimitri went wandering around town with only just Ingrid, seeing it as reckless, lamo.

I love all the Blue Lions, man.

YURI & SETETH A

Yuri fell for a trap. Because it was his "second worst" brush with death, Seteth is curious about the first. It was the plague that wrecked Faerghus (and killed Dimitri's mother). Yuri survived without a doctor's help.

An old man saved him. They found some old man on the road, took him in, and then later he saved Yuri. But is dead by now.

Seteth seems to know who it is.

There's a legend that one of the Ten Elites got sick and got healthy after getting a crest from a Saint.

So Seteth thinks Yuri got his rare crest from the actual saint? Or close descendant of.

So that explains why Yuri's hinted at living longer than average, and has a super rare crest.

Seteth is happy to learn one of his old friends may have found peace in his final moments because he got to save a child's life.

I don't know if his House's supports tells you about this lore, but it's cool to learn it here.

It's also nice to see Yuri talk to someone without picking a fight. He was so chill, almost friendly to Seteth rather than sounding a bit like a fanfic edgelord initially (like, I like Yuri, but some of him reeks of baby's first fanfic OC).

SHEZ & FLAYN A

Flayn's upset with Seteth, who told her no about something.

Man, Seteth and Flayn's relationship would be creepy as fuck if they were really siblings. Like, Seteth is extremely controlling of Flayn, and often it looks like the typical icky "my woman must remain pure!!!" Like, not only do they treat the women in their family like possessions, not people, but seem especially interested in owning their genitals and sexuality. It's so extremely weird and gross, and why I pretty much can't stand Holst anymore (he seemed alright at first, but some supports are so ick).

But learning that their father-daughter helps (it's still gross, but less weird because at least he's a legit authority figure in her life and not her . . . brother), but knowing it's actually because TWSITD want to torture Flayn to death, that his people got genocided and turned into super weapons, and that she healed so many people she nearly died too (which would leave him with no family) makes it not offputting. It's actually a pretty smart way of using tropes that seems set up to make us dislike him (over controlling father) and then a big "ohhhhh" once you learn the WHY isn't the typical creepy "my girl is not a whore!" obsession wayyyyy too many men have.

OK, back to the support now.

Seteth is trying to block Flayn from going out entirely. Poor Flayn. But with TWSITD on the move, it does make sense.

Shez is very concerned with Flayn. I love how empathetic Shez is while still being realistically distant enough to be a merc and pretty straight forward. I actually REALLY like Shez. Esp F!Shez.

Flayn is going to listen to Seteth because she doesn't want to make it hard on him.

After the war, they plan on going out together again.

Flayn is grateful it's F!Shez and not M!Shez bc a woman is less sus to Seteth than a man. I wonder how the M!Shez one goes.

Haha, Shez can offer to help Flayn sneak out, or talk her out of it. I totally offered to help her sneak out lol.

MAIN BATTLE

Do we ever learn what happened to Edelgard? Or did she get yeeted from the plot?

She's missing this battle. Aegir lost her. What an idiot. He looks so funny in that armor. I'm glad in this route at least, I get to kick his ass, not save his ass (unlike the other 2 routes).

I do not understand the hype around Caspar's dad. He folds like a twig when I fight him.

Killed Aegis. Such a tragedy. /s

OMG. I beat that chapter in like 4 minutes. Dimitri is so overleveled and stupidly strong. He just kills so fast. It's hilarious and fun. But I also miss S rank because I didn't kill enough. He kills too fast.

They still can't find Edelgard.

It'll be weird if we don't get a monastery chapter.

Byleth insists on looking for Edelgard more because he feels she's nearby.

Byleth and Shez look for Edelgard together. Which makes me hope we get dialogue between them.

Unless this is the start of the special chapter? Ok switching to the next post now.

xxxx

[kaiser-loki]

I made the bio cards for Brother Leir Brutan, Sir Glevus Glow, and Priska Sigeian, the surfacer disguises of the leaders of the Agarthan Resistance from my Fire Emblem Three Houses fic Time Is Not A River. Still no portraits because I still can't draw. So far only Leir Brutan has shown up - first in chapter 13 as his real self, Silenos, and later in chapter 15, both as his disguise and his real self.

Fun facts:

Priska is the oldest and Glevus is the youngest (though he's still around 300 years old), but the age gap between Priska and Leir is *far* greater than the age gap between Leir and Glevus.

All three's true identities are connected to one of the noble houses of the region they oversee. I tried to hint at which ones via their likes and dislikes.

Silenos actually bears a Crest (mentioned in ch.15), but just like how Edelgard's Crest of Flames and Lysithea’s Crest of Gloucester don't show up until they’re revealed, and like Byleth and Marianne's Crests are obfuscated, it's not shown on his disguised bio.