#dedue x byleth

[chiyu-japanese]

IKEAのサメ乱獲するドゥレス

[mortyvongola2-0]

hi could I request some first time with dedue headcanons? maybe touching on any kinks of his as well? this man needs more love </3

I agree, he does need more love! He's such a sweet man, he deserves the world.

Thank you for asking, I hope its not too short for you.

Dedue is a very patient man. He's steadfast and kind, as long as it doesn't go against his position as His Highnesses vassal, he'd be willing to do whatever it takes. He is an excellent man to be with for someone's first time.

He'd prefer to be told beforehand about whether or not it is his partner's first time. It would help him understand exactly what needed to be done so that he and his lover could both have the most enjoyable experience possible.

He's not a super kinky man, but he does have a few things that he really enjoys.

He's definitely the type to enjoy taking his time, to go slowly, whether its the first time or not. He likes the buildup, the subtle sounds. He likes to know that his partner is getting the most out of the experience as well. His patience and want to pleasure leads a lot into overstimulation.

He'd rather over perform than underperform.

Dedue also enjoys oral sex, he prefers to be on the receiving end. It makes him feel accepted and so attractive. He doesn't like to finish in his partners mouth though, he'd prefer to see it somewhere else. Like on his lover's chest of thighs. He's not totally into marking but he enjoys the view every once in awhile.

He likes to hear the sounds of his partners. A lot. He may not make much noise but he loves to hear them make it. Especially during a first encounter, it tells him that he's doing a good job and depending on the sound it can also let him know if they're in any pain or not.

He's a sweetheart so there's a lot of kissing involved. Soft kisses, pecks of reassurance and a mumble of "you're doing so well," every so often. Dedue is large, and he knows he's large, so he feels the need to give as much reassurance and reciprocation as he possibly can.

He'd distract from pain with those loving kisses, with tender touches along the sides and waists of his partner, and pay special attention to where he knew they loved to be touched after his entry.

First times with Dedue are slow, tender, and loving. He makes sure to be as delicate as he would be with the many flowers he loves to care for. Its a wonderful time.

tagged list: @therantingfangirl @skydaddy01

[fe-fictions]

Any soft Dedue perhaps ? Like maybe just the morning after with Byleth ? I crave stories for him and other faves of mine ☺️😭

(How about Papa Dedue taking care of the baby while you're off to a meeting? :'D )

It was another late night of meetings, go figure. Dedue assured you that he could handle the little one, so you needn’t worry about returning to your quarters until everything was taken care of.

It was a landmark council meeting, after all. The union of the former Adrestian Empire and its subjects was coming to a head, and if this talk went well, then Fodlan would finally be united, once more.

Your one trouble with going to this meeting so late was your son. He was still so new to the world, only a few weeks old, and you worried that leaving him without your care would be difficult for Dedue to handle.

He was busy enough as the captain of the Knights of Sothis. What would happen if he came home exhausted and had to care for the baby, too? Of course your husband dismissed this passionately. It was his son, after all; he would take care of him as long as he needed to in order for you to get your work done.

So with a lingering kiss goodnight, and the promise of a swift return, you left your dear son in the hands of your beloved knight. 

He was more than happy to spend the time with his little one. The child was still so small, barely bigger than his father’s hand, and was asleep more often than not.

Dedue held his son while he read in bed, baby snoozing happily on his father’s broad chest.

It had been a peaceful night, as he thought. After all, he was an observant man. He knew full well how his child would act, he’d known him his whole life (three weeks).

Eventually though, Dedue felt the lull of sleep pulling at his own eyes, and knew it would still be a while yet before you returned to him.

“Come, son.” He carefully shifted out of bed, deftly moving to sit up and then from bed to the bassinet just a few feet away. “It’s time to go to sleep, for both of us.”

He rocked the baby a little while, humming a Duscurian lullaby softly. The rumble of his father’s voice soothed his son, guaranteeing a good night’s sleep for at least the first few hours.

Once the child was mumbling no more, Dedue swaddled him up in his blankets (knitted by the captain), and nestled him into his bed.

“Goodnight, little one. Papa will be here when you wake.”

Dedue beamed at the baby, his heart swelling with pride. How could one human being be so very perfect? It defied all logic and sense.

But his visage of perfection didn’t last long. Dedue barely took a step away from the crib when a sharp cry rang out. 

He was wide awake, all of a sudden.

Brow furrowed, Dedue returned to his boy, finding him struggling in his blankets and his face scrunched and pink with distress.

“My, my...what’s happened?” He wondered aloud, quick to scoop up the child and bring him back to his chest.

He rubbed his son’s back soothingly, humming the lullaby again, waiting for the crying to subside. Little hands were clinging to his nightshirt, which was precious and meant the baby wanted to be nowhere but in his father’s arms.

Who was Dedue to deny him?

“There, now, no need to cry. You were sleeping so soundly, before. You mustn’t wake up so suddenly. What if Mama was here and you woke her up? She needs her rest too, son. Especially after tonight.”

All he received in response were muffled sobs, slowly giving way to sweeter mumblings. Dedue continued his comforting ministrations until the sounds came to a stop once more.

Convinced that he was asleep, for certain this time, Dedue returned to the bassinet. He held the baby to his chest as long as he could until he was completely leaned over the bedding, then settled the boy back in once more, making sure he was still warm and snug in his blankets.

His hand lingered on the baby’s chest, feeling the steady breathing of a child fast asleep.

Mission accomplished.

He straightened back up, turned to go back to bed, and-

Dedue cringed when a louder cry erupted from the bassinet. Now he was just confused. He quickly returned to the child’s side and scooped him back up; what was he so upset about? Going from sleeping so soundly with his father one moment, to angrily crying the next.

“What’s gotten into you?” He asked with a far gentler tone than he’d have used with anyone else. The baby was quieted quickly once more, put back to sleep...but this time, Dedue watched him.

He set him back down in the cradle, and leaned over its side, watching and waiting for the baby to cry out.

Sure enough, the second Dedue’s hand was off him, that boy was crying.

He was starting to piece together the culprit.

“Little one…” He lifted the baby once more, hugging him to his chest. “Could it be that  you won’t sleep without me?”

Dedue warmed at the thought, though it did present a few issues. How was he to sleep if his child couldn’t without him?

He couldn’t very well fall asleep while holding the baby, and risk turning over or smothering him by accident.

You definitely wouldn’t let him live if such a thing happened.

But if his son wouldn’t sleep without him, then…

“Ah, perhaps this is what parental sacrifice is all about.” He smiled to himself, snuggling the baby close as he returned to bed. He sunk back into the pillows once more, drawing the blankets up to cover the baby properly, and warm himself back up.

“If it helps you sleep, darling...I will forgo rest for the night.”

Dedue kissed the top of his little head, relishing the child’s cuddling into him and seeking out that warmth only a parent could provide.

Sure enough, that baby boy was out like a light in no time. 

It was a sight you never thought you’d see, coming into the bedroom and finding the candle sputtering, almost out, but illuminating your husband, dozing off in bed with a baby cradled in his arms and fast asleep.

You wished you could encapsulate that moment forever. 

Dedue woke with a groggy noise when you gently lifted the baby from his arms. You resisted the urge to laugh; such a protective father.

“Go back to sleep, my love.” You whispered, kissing his cheek.

Dedue hummed, rubbing at his eyes. “I didn’t mean to fall asleep...it’s not safe for the baby.”

“You didn’t move a muscle, not to worry. He’s just fine.” You assured him, gently tucking the baby in to his bassinet once more. 

“I tried to put him to bed a few times,” Dedue yawned, “But he would cry if I wasn’t holding him.”

“It takes a few tries, sometimes. I think he just loves his Papa so much he doesn’t want to leave you.”

“Ha.” Dedue blushed, touched by the mere thought.

“It’s late, dear. We both need to get some rest. He’ll be up in a few hours, anyways.”

“I’ll take the first watch.” He welcomed you into bed after you changed, resting his head atop yours. It was far more comforting to sleep with the warmth of someone he held dear, in his arms.

“You’re a wonderful father, Dedue. He’s lucky to have you.”

“I’m lucky to have both of you.” He murmured into your hair. 

You fell  into blissful sleep together, everyone sound and quiet in the Archbishop’s quarters. When you did end up waking again, it was a whopping six hours later (the most you’d slept in weeks), when Dedue informed you the baby was in need of a proper feeding. 

Something that he was  unable to provide, unfortunately.

[astrangefrog]

My deduelyth piece for a coloringbook zine!

Feel free to color in (but please do credit me if you decide to post the finished piece)

[rorah]

Blaiddyd Family | Addams Family AU

Dimitri is a cursed man who can speak with ghost and is married to a demon.

Byleth is a demon summoned by Dimitri's uncle and Corny to get take Dimitri's soul to hell. She instead, marries him (and also glows in the dark 👁️-👁️)

Edelgard is Dimitri's stepsister who can't remember to be part of this family and dislikes to be there (yet, stays because she has access to "stuffs" to do "stuffs").

Rufus is Dimitri's uncle who very much hates his nephew and tries to get rid of him passively (ie, poisons and traps). Dimitri still loves his fam members very much.

Cornelia is a witch and Rufus partner (Only interest because she wants something the Blayddids have). She very much tries to get rid of everyone of this family.

Dedue is Dimitri's Best and most loyal friend but decided to serve him. He doesn't talk much.

[asperrusual]

3H x Tumblr

[fiction-box]

Blood From A Stone

Blue Lions Boys X Fem!Reader

Hello, my lovelies! I wrote this in an attempt to psyche myself up for these next few days as I will be traveling for a job interview. I hope you all have been staying warm these past few weeks (the temperature has been consistently negative where I am now). I will attempt to start working on my inbox once I return. This work was not originally going to go this far in-depth, but this is where the story wanted to go. Nonetheless, please enjoy!

Requests are open. The story will continue under the cut.

After what might have been a ten minute walk, Professor Byleth halted her Blue Lions in the middle of the woods surrounding the monastery. You felt the warmth of the late spring sun shining through the trees; an experience made more pleasant by the soft breeze rifling through your hair.

You and Ingrid had been speculating what exercise you might be coming outside to do, taking an opportunity to make conversation during the walk. Each Friday, the professor enforced some group activity - shopping relays in town, competitive hunting, blindfolded sparring matches - to let everyone better learn the strengths of their classmates.

Sure enough, you watched the former mercenary pull the infamous blindfolds out of the satchel sitting on her waist. A hefty exhale resounded next to you.

“Aw, come on! Not this again…” Annette whined.

No one could blame her; Dedue had hit her uncharacteristically hard in the confusion of his blindness during their match. She might even still be sore from last weekend.

“Now, now - repeating the same exercise two weeks in a row wouldn’t be much help to us. This is meant to build our sense of camaraderie, not our dread for the end of the week,” Byleth corrected. “Line up, please.”

You did so, shuffling into a spot between Annette and Ingrid as your teacher scrutinized the class.

Dimitri caught a green bandana in the same second Dedue was handed a brown one. Green for Ashe and Mercedes, brown for you and Annette.

“Teams,” Dedue noted.

“Please tie them around your foreheads. I’ll explain in a moment.”

A brown scrap of fabric landed in Felix’s palm, the bluenette bringing it to his forehead before Ingrid and Sylvain received their green cloths. Silently cheering, you watched Professor Byleth fix the final brown textile to her own head.

“Today’s activity focuses on both stealth and strategy. Everyone received a color responding to their team. Your objective is to steal all of your opponents’ headbands - the first team to lose all of which will lose.”

Immediately, Sylvain reached over Ashe’s head to pull Felix’s bandana off his head, dangling it in the air.

“One down, everyone!”

“You know damn well we haven’t started yet!” the swordsman snapped.

Dimitri grinned, “I must say Felix, I never saw you as someone to be so easily caught off your guard.”

Ingrid hardly held back a snicker, Ashe’s body practically trembling with a similar sentiment as he reflexively moved out of the way of the two nobles.

Felix clenched his hands into fists, “I’ll tear that cloth into tatters while it’s still wrapped around your insolent-”

“That’s quite enough.”

Professor Byleth eyed Sylvain, prompting him to quickly return Felix’s band. Not without receiving a moderate punch to the arm in retaliation, of course.

“The forest will be split down the middle in regards to starting positions. Those with green bands will begin on the east while brown will start on the west. Each team will be given one minute to conceal themselves, come up with a plan, and do anything else they see fit before I sound the whistle.”

“Your opponents’ accessories can be taken by any means necessary. While use of stealth is encouraged, feel free to use weapons and other advantages as you see fit. The goal is to win, first and foremost. Once you are eliminated, you are to return here until we finish.”

“Prepare to sit on your ass for fifteen minutes, boar.”

You couldn’t help the sound that came out of you at that. Dimitri’s eyes flashed over to discern your reaction before his face promptly flushed a light hue of pink.

“Wh- Sylvain took your headband, not me!”

The redhead frowned, lightly ghosting his hand over his new injury, “Throwing me to the wolves so quickly, your Highness? Maybe-”

“Oh, enough already,” Byleth huffed. “Off to the woods with you all. Right now. Sixty seconds!”

Newly motivated by the time constraint, everyone shifted to group up before rushing to their respective sides.

You weaved between the trees, Professor Byleth following close behind as you trailed Dedue and Annette. Not long after you reached a central-western location, Felix instantly pulled the two in front of you aside.

“...-ce at the northern end of the forest where the dirt is…”

A bit confused, you shifted your eyes to meet those of your professor. Apparently, neither of you were invited to this strategy meeting.

That meant you weren’t needed then, right?

It was all the same to you. Better than the same, actually; an archer flying solo on a stealth mission in the woods didn’t sound like a terrible assignment in the least.

To top it all off, Professor Byleth on her own elsewhere in the forest at the same time? The anticipation would surely kill you. Maybe you would even see her skills more personally than you had on the few traditional battlefields your class fought on so far.

You were brought back to the present as your professor turned to you in real life, nodding at you before slipping into the shadow of a thick tree.

Sticking around just a little longer, you gathered enough snippets of Felix’s conversation to understand his plan. He wanted to make a hole in the ground on the northern side large enough to hold as many members of the opposing side as possible. It sounded a bit ambitious, but you supposed that was nothing new concerning the second son.

In any case, your team seemed to masquerade as the better part of a mess. You wondered how things were with Ingrid…

…45, 46, 47…

After a moment, you strengthened your resolve. The best way to see what the other team was up to would be to go see for yourself, right?

Swiftly working your way counterclockwise around the forest, you snuck over to the eastern side, crossing over only upon hearing a shrill note knocking against the trees. It was now imperative to stay hidden in whatever darkness would conceal you. Having a bow certainly made this easier in terms of mobility since you could just sling it across your body.

Even the animals seemed quiet. Accordingly, you were on high alert. Your movements became more careful, more deliberate as your heart began to race in anticipation. No stepping on branches or leaves; just grass and dirt. No bumping against the trees or sudden movements; just liquid flow and shady cover. Soft, swift, and silent.

Once you believed yourself to have rounded the terrain far enough, you stopped, climbing the tree with the best vantage point in the area and scanning the shady path where your opponents must have started. That is, if the ruined leaves on the ground served as any clue. Prepared for action, you took your bow off your back and pulled an arrow out of the slim training quiver you had been given. Patience was a game you were sure to win, especially in such a good position.

Nothing happened, though. You detected no movement, no flash of colors, and you eventually concluded that the other group must have had a similar idea. After all, most people are right handed, so they might have felt more comfortable countering on the northern side than from the south.

You were somewhat discouraged at your failure to help, but it was no big deal. Especially not when you heard the sound of branches snapping back the way you came. Felix’s strategy must have worked - there was nothing else you could imagine that might make that kind of sound. It must have been effective, too; you recalled an offhanded comment he made about Leonie teaching him something about traps.

Resigning yourself to picking off any stragglers that might have strayed from the group near Felix, you lowered yourself from your tree. Perhaps enough time remained for you to return to your side and assess the damages to see who was left.

Progressing back the way you came would be simple enough. Although you were intent on remaining undetected, you heard several branches snapping and some shouting up ahead.

Felix must have really gotten to them.

You grew close enough to the commotion to recognize Dimitri and Ashe’s voices as the ones yelling, but it made no sense. You had hardly moved a few paces past the tree you were in, and you were still circling the southern side of the forest.

Why were they being so loud? Did they lose, or did they forget this was meant to be a stealth exercise?

But that didn’t make sense, either. They were the best listeners in Professor Byleth’s class, barring Annette; there’s no way they would slack off now of all times.

Silently, you crept toward their shouts until you were brought to a wall of greenery. If you went through…

You didn’t have enough time to hide before they came barreling through the bush.

“Woah!” an ambush? And you fell for it, no less?

Ashe’s eyes widened, his natural agility allowing him to dodge you just in time. Dimitri, with no such skill, slammed into you. The two of you crashed into the ground, the prince scrambling to the weapon you knocked out of his hands as Ashe pulled you onto your feet.

“Come on, get up!” the archer begged you.

 Dimitri frantically shot off the dirt while Ashe started to guide you in the direction they were running. You didn’t have a moment to collect your thoughts or ask questions.

The crown prince’s longer legs carried him past you before he grabbed your left arm with his free hand. Your right hand still connected to Ashe, the three of you formed a chain for a moment as Dimitri lent you his momentum.

A terrible roar emanated from the bush where the boys appeared, prompting you all to detach and pick up the pace. The sounds of three sets of feet slamming against the dirt bounced off the trees in the forest. 

Two crest beasts barrelled through the shrubs, snapping branches in their pursuit of you and your friends.

“How?” you pleaded, your legs moving impossibly faster with the new adrenaline rush.

“No clue,” Dimitri weaved between the trees, his breath heavy, “where they came from.”

A wave of terror pulsed through you. All you felt were eyes on your back, on your friends, and there was nothing you could do about it. They approached, so much larger and covering so much more ground.

Naturally, your smaller size and unfamiliarity with the area caught up with your group. The demons pursuing you could simply demolish the forest in their path, but Dimitri could only get so far before his height forced him to fumble through a group of low-hanging branches.

Unable to slow down, you crashed into him, sprawling to the forest floor. Ashe had once again been attentive and agile enough to change course, but you and the prince lied prone on the ground.

A sound of anticipation came in the form of an unearthly squeal from one of the monsters trailing seconds behind you. If you did nothing here, you would surely die. 

Upon noticing Dimitri had again dropped his lance in his fall, you snatched it and flipped over to face one of the beasts, contesting a well-timed snap of its jaw by holding the weapon up and angling it to act as a pike. It worked just well enough to force the creature’s mouth open…

…until the beast’s maw clamped down on the training weapon, struggling over it with you before it splintered and snapped.

Knocked backwards, your shoulders never got the chance to hit the ground. Dimitri had been given enough time to stand, placing his hands under your arms and dragging you back while Ashe shouted from another direction.

The archer’s cries were enough to split the horrific hunting party, though the only thing you and Dimitri did was continue running.

This is hopeless. All our weapons are meant for training, Ashe is on his own, there are no other fighters with us…

“We can’t keep running,”  you breathed, looping around a tree to throw the monster off your trail, “something has to change.”

…Felix…

You curved around the forest, switching to head back to your group, “Follow me.”

The two of you determined that zig-zagging was the best way to outrun the monster, though if you slowed down, you would no doubt be back on the ground again.

Intuitively, you followed the path you were fairly certain Dimitri’s teammates must have taken to get to the western part of the forest. All the while, you silently prayed that your legs would continue to carry you at a pace fast enough that the beast wouldn’t gain too much ground.

Not that it could be helped; you took two strides for every one of the beast’s.

“Felix! Felix, where are you?”

“Felix!” Dimitri followed your lead.

A figure appeared in the distance, his fair skin and blue hair giving him away, “Why the hell are you two-?”

The shriek from the beast trailing you and the prince drowned out the rest of his sentence.

“Felix, where’s the trap?!”

“Shit,” he cursed, though you couldn’t hear. “This way!”

Pushing yourself just a bit further, you forced your mind to ignore the screams of protest from your body. Felix sprinted just ahead of you, his lack of fatigue allowing him to match pace with your adrenaline spike before he rounded a bush.

“Get the professor!” your teammate ordered someone you couldn’t see.

Dimitri rushed past you to follow the bluenette. Upon leaving the beast’s line of sight, however, he was yanked into the large shrub. You recognized Felix’s hand wrapping around your arm before you stumbled into him, entering the branches as well.

“Thank you, Dedue,” you heard Dimitri’s voice next to you, the phrase uttered out between gasps for air.

It was in the split second before the beast rounded the shrub that you turned your head and recognized the trick. The covering on the pit was placed in the path next to the bush you four were in. If someone hadn’t known to stop and take a route through the hedge, they would have fallen through the dirt.

And upon seeing Professor Byleth appear at the other end of the pit, creator sword drawn to lure the crest beast toward her, you recognized how smart your teammates really were.

The pit wasn’t big enough to hold a crest beast by any means, but it certainly did the trick to immobilize it as the monster lost its footing. A well placed strike to the crest stone on the back of its neck shattered the source of its power. You could only stare at the crumbling animal, its bony limbs reduced to dust. The only thing lying in the crater at the end was…

“A person?” Dedue balked.

You moved to get a closer look before realizing Felix still had his arm around you.

“Um…”

Absentmindedly, he released you, throwing an apology over his shoulder before going to examine the woman lying dead in what very much could have been her grave.

Unbeknownst to you, your body was beginning to shut down. Running all that way left you exhausted, and having done so at a sprint certainly didn’t make matters any better. Yet the second you sank to the ground to truly catch your breath, you remembered.

Ashe.

“P-Professor,” you coughed, “...Ashe-”

“...What?”

“Damn, we left Ashe in the forest!” Dimitri agonized.

Byleth’s eyes sharpened, “Understood. I’ll go find him.”

“I’m coming, too.”

“What?” Felix questioned. “No, there’s no way - you’re way too tired.”

“Dimitri and I are the only ones who know where he is!”

At this, the prince attempted to rise from his position bracing on his knees “Then I’ll go.”

“Are you kidding me? You’re a worse candidate than I am - you’re still bleeding from the trees!”

“Bleeding? I’m not-”

“Your highness,” Dedue cut him off, “your chest.”

Certainly, his uniform was ripped in places, blood pooling out from the cuts he received when he scraped himself on the branches, earlier.

“You must not have felt it due to the adrenaline. We should get you to Mercedes.”

Sure of yourself, you began to walk backwards in the direction you came from, “Professor, there’s no time! You have your sword, so if push comes to shove, I’ll be fine. Ashe doesn’t have a proper weapon, though, and he must have been running for a long time!”

Professor Byleth wasted no words, “Fine then. Lead the way.”

As the two of you picked up the pace, she turned to call out, “Be sure to clear that girl out of the pit! Get her to Mercedes!”

The dull ache in your legs became impossible to ignore once you ran back into the forest. Still, through a mix of retracing your steps and following the sounds of roaring and trees snapping, you managed to get close to where you and Ashe had parted ways.

Sure enough, several trees had been reduced to splinters and fallen trunks. The damage created a small clearing, through which you could see your friend. He looked really out of it, the forest around him a mess from the beast’s rage. 

“Ashe! Over here!”

The professor hit the creature a few times with her sword, extending its reach to divert its attention to herself. Recognizing her attempts to hurt it, the beast reared its head and focused its efforts on Byleth.

She had provided enough of a distraction that Ashe could make it to you. Allowing himself a moment’s respite, he braced himself on his knees similar to how Dimitri had earlier. Breathless, the two of you watched your mentor’s skills at work.

The creator sword would wrap around the wild creature’s neck; Byleth’s obvious attempt at trying to break the stone. Each time, the tether was countered by a snap of the beast’s teeth, or her attack missed entirely. The angle was impossible from where she was standing.

“Fall back, you two - I’ll be right behind you!”

Ashe began to protest, “But-”

“You’re both tired, you’ll need whatever headstart I can give y-ngh!”

Her opponent had grown impatient, swiping its claws at the chain of her sword before her next attack could connect. The weapon was yanked to the side, knocking the professor off balance for a moment and sending the weapon flying out of her hand.

“Just go! I promise I’ll be right there!”

Willing your legs to move, you grabbed Ashe’s wrist and pulled him up, guiding him the first few steps of the way. Once he managed to find his footing, you took a position to lead him back to the group in the west.

You didn’t think you would be able to do much of anything tomorrow, after this. The taste of blood stained your every breath, your throat felt dry to the point it hurt, and you were surprised you could even lift your legs anymore. The adrenaline had worn off by the time you left Dimitri with Dedue.

The noise increasing behind you cut off your train of thought. The pounding of paws much heavier than your own feet thundered against the forest floor. Leaves crushed so loudly you could have sworn they were snapping logs, and the veil of the safety you thought you still had was quickly torn away.

What about Professor Byleth? She should have been on her feet, should have caught up to you and Ashe by now if-

“Keep moving!”

The voice next to you startled you almost enough to make you lose your footing, but a steady hand at your back and the sight of a flash of green hair at your side kept you upright.

“Over here, Professor! This way!”

Annette waved her arms over her head, signaling a new location nearby. They must have created a separate trap in the time you had been away.

But why…?

A snap at your backs inspired the three of you to round this new shrub at record speed. This time, you were ready when Dedue pulled you into the bushes.

“Woah!”

You supposed you had forgotten to warn Ashe.

Sure enough, everything else was the same story, just with different people. The Professor pivoted out of Sylvain’s hold in time to pull the sword she retrieved from her hip. The beast fell in the trap upon rounding the hedge, giving her a more advantageous angle to properly fracture the stone, reverting the creature to the body of a young man.

“I don’t understand,” Felix’s brow furrowed, Ashe ducking out of his hold and falling to the ground to finally breathe.

You were beginning to feel similarly. Were it not for Dedue, you doubted you would be standing. Your classmate seemed privy to this knowledge, as well.

“I will bring you to Mercedes.”

A nod was all you could muster while Dedue bent to put an arm beneath your legs, lifting you off the ground. The air you were practically drinking filled your lungs with more oxygen than you thought they could hold, and your resulting breaths sounded almost raspy. Respectfully, you ensured that your head was turned away from Dedue (though it was also to ensure you could get as much air as possible).

Even still, you managed to catch the final words of those behind you.

“Why didn’t you just take that girl to Mercedes and reuse the last trap?” Professor Byleth wondered.

“Well…” Sylvain, “there wasn’t really a point...she was already dead.”

“...then…this boy…?”

You tried not to focus on the silence that followed her final question.

A few paces later and Dedue had made it to the outskirts of the woods. It was where you all met at the beginning of the exercise.

Mercedes approached the two of you before you cleared the trees, guiding Dedue to set you down on a patch of soft grass in the shade next to three green scraps of fabric. She must have anticipated your arrival.

“Will she be alright?”

“Oh, yes,” Mercedes assured him, though her light tone didn’t match the furrow of her brows. “She’s mostly dealing with fatigue, but the strain on her lungs should be soothed before she tries to go anywhere.”

A moment of silence.

“Where is his Highness?”

The glow of soft magic hovered over you before you felt inclined to close your eyes. You tried not to focus on the strange feeling coursing through you - you still weren’t used to healing spells, yet.

“He and Ingrid went back to the monastery to consult Lady Rhea about all this.” She sighed, and you felt a pause in the flow of her enchantment, “I don’t really understand everything that happened today. It all feels so wrong.”

“I agree. There should not have been any crest beasts this close to the academy. The knights should have noticed.”

Another pause led to a stronger wave of magic passing through your lungs; it was all you could do to focus on breathing next to this weird feeling, but you opened your eyes just to make sure you were still okay.

 “I will head back to the monastery as well.”

The healer nodded, “I’ll let the professor know.”

“Let me know what?”

It seemed the rest of your class made it out of the forest. Professor Byleth approached at the lead, followed close behind by Annette, and finally by Felix and Sylvain supporting a pale and winded Ashe.

As Dedue filled your teacher in on everything, Mercedes abandoned you to go help Ashe. Annette replaced her, kneeling where her friend sat just a moment ago to continue her work. Fortunately, you didn’t feel like there was much left to do.

“Right. You can head back. Take some of the training weapons with you, please - I have a feeling everyone else will have their hands full by the time we head back.”

Dedue removed the brown band wrapped around his forehead, adding it to the pile lying about a meter away from your feet. Picking up the discarded wooden lance, bow, and sword lying in a pile closer to the woods, he turned and wordlessly took the path leading back to Garreg Mach.

“My bow…” you remembered, testing out your voice from your position on the ground, “I think…I dropped it somewhere in the forest?”

Felix scoffed, “With the amount of trees those beasts managed to fell, I don’t think a bit more wood lying around would hurt anyone. The Church can just buy a new one. They replace training weapons all the time.”

“Take it from Felix, they’re used to broken weapons,” Sylvain grinned. “Repairing a broken bow can’t be much different than replacing a missing one.”

A small huff of air came from the swordsman’s nose at his classmate’s remark. Rather than respond, however, he just turned back to you.

“How the hell are you still awake after all that? I expected you to have passed out by now.”

“Me? Shouldn’t you be more worried about Ashe? Whatever running I did, he ran and then some.”

“He did pass out.”

Turning your head to where Mercedes knelt, you found your friend sleeping on the grass, uneven breaths heaving from his chest.

After everything he went through by himself, you could only think that he deserved to rest.

“Professor? What is it?”

Annette’s inquisition immediately led your mind to drop the subject, turning instead to see Professor Byleth lost in thought.

“I’m just…trying to understand something. Those people that came from those monsters - did I kill them, or were they already dead? How did this happen so close to the monastery without anyone coming to help us? And…”

No one knew what to say. You hadn’t recognized the people that died, not their clothing or their faces.

“Nevermind. We need to head back in case anything else unexpected is looking to find us.”

“That should be just fine, Professor,” Mercedes agreed. “I’ve made sure these two are stable. The best thing for everyone now would be to rest.”

“Very well,” your teacher began circling around to everyone, collecting their headbands to place in the bag she had left here earlier.

Annette extended her hand out before Professor Byleth made her way over to the two of you. Taking it, you attempted to get up only to be frustrated by the fatigue of your legs. A sharp inhale followed by a hiss of pain accompanied the feeling of Annette lowering you back to the ground.

“Yeah…might not be ready for that yet…” you gritted your teeth.

Byleth walked over, tugging the brown textile off your head in a fluid motion, “Sylvain, please help her get back to the monastery. Felix, you can carry Ashe.”

“What?!”

Sylvain barely contained his laughter, approaching you with easy footsteps and lifting you off the ground bridal-style.

“You’re sure you want Sylvain of all people carrying the woman that can’t walk? Or fend for herself right now, for that matter?”

“Don’t worry, I’ve got plenty of experience with this sort of thing.”

“...with carrying people?” you raised a brow.

Sylvain winked, “...with carrying women that can’t walk.”

Professor Byleth hit him on the back of the head so hard that Sylvain dropped you on the ground.

You landed, reeling with a small squeak and a light curse. Your breath came labored through your teeth from the incidental blow to your legs. Not that it could have hurt as much as whatever she just did to Sylvain.

“Agh- What the hell, Professor?!”

“You and Felix have done an excellent job of changing my mind. I think we would all feel better if you volunteered to carry Ashe back with us, instead.”

Now it was Felix’s turn to fight a smirk, though he was hardly trying. After making sure you were okay from your slight fall, he picked you up in much the same way Sylvain had mere moments ago.

Meanwhile, Sylvain seemed to be making a point to carry Ashe over his shoulders.

The seven of you headed back to the monastery together, Professor Byleth calling off her lessons for the beginning of next week just to make sure everyone was well rested. Annette tried to reason that taking the weekend off would be plenty of time for most of the Blue Lions. After all, you, Dimitri, and Ashe were the only ones that really suffered any fatigue. Your teacher countered that if she were holding class, you three were the most likely suspects to insist on attending regardless, no matter how badly you were injured.

Perhaps you left too good of an impression on the professor today for her to think such things of you. Regardless, you agreed with her, if only to save Annette from the pointed glares of Felix and Sylvain at the idea of rejecting a day out of class.

[pistachio-pierrot]

CRINGETOBER DAY 10-- Ship Dynamic

If I had a nickel for every ship I have that's exactly like this, I'd have two nickels, which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice.

To the A x C or B x C shippers: I see you; I totally understand where you're coming from-- but A x B just calls to me.

[justrandomselfships]

SECOND PART OF MY SCUFFLE SILLIES!!!

Commission status is in my pinned post!

taglist utc!

@lovehollyberry

@resident-cake-anon

@maynope00

@princesheepish

@n1rolankisser

@lapinbunwrites

[blehbet-arts]

Hi! I know it's old, but I just stumbled upon your fe3h x genshin au recently. It seems really interesting, so I was wondering if you could elaborate some of the lore 👉👈

oh!! of course!!

this will be a lil long because of how character focused it is, so feel free to look at whichever one interested you the most. the yapperning, shall now commence :3

Byleth Eisner - ☆☆☆☆☆

Vision: Anemo Delusion: Pyro Weapon Type: Sword Region: Sumeru (formerly Snezhnaya) Affiliations: The Akademiya, (formerly the Fatui)

An ex high ranking Fatui officer, Byleth escaped the clutches of the Fatui upon the discovery that their father was killed by one of the Fatui Harbingers (feel free to guess who did it...). Finding easy mercenary work in Sumeru, they worked their way up from an escapee to a trusted hired sword for the Akademiya. On request, they're also willing to teach scholars basic combat. Because of them and their strange, but effective teaching methods, there's unsubstantiated rumours flying around that the Sages are considering the implementation of a new Darshan.

Currently in their possession is the Sword of the Creator, a heroes' relic passed down into their grasp from civilisations of old - an object in which they stole in the midst of their retreat.

Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd - ☆☆☆☆☆

Vision: Cryo Weapon Type: Polearm Region: Snezhnaya Affiliations: The Fatui

Adopted by the Tsaritsa under mysterious circumstances, Dimitri was raised in accordance of the Fatui's ideals. Growing up to be a capable fighter, he'd then take on the role as one of the Tsaritsa's military generals and plays a critical role in her personal vanguard. As of now, he is currently on the hunt for traitors of the Fatui, and that just so happens to include a certain professor...

Currently in his possession is Areadbhar, a heroes' relic once wielded by upstanding Khaenri'ahn soldiers. It was given to him by the Tsaritsa.

Edelgard von Hresvelg - ☆☆☆☆☆

Vision: Pyro Weapon Type: Claymore Region: Mondstadt Affiliations: Knights of Favonius, (Khaenri'ah)

Born and raised amidst the Mondstadtian uppercrust, Edelgard has led an uneventful life as a Knight of Favonius. However, beneath this seemingly unshakable visage is a secret that even she is yet to fully grasp. In her spare time, she can often be found surveying ruins, most of which have been prescribed to the ancient civilisation of Khaenri'ah. Her curiosity is sourced by her dissatisfaction with the current ways of Teyvat.

Currently in her possession is Aymr, a heroes' relic that she found on one of her personal expeditions. Even so, she can't help the feeling that its placement, upon being discovered, was notably purposeful.

Claude von Riegan - ☆☆☆☆☆

Vision: Anemo Weapon Type: Bow Region: Sumeru, Fontaine Affiliations: Corps of Thirty, Temple of Silence

A free spirit - Claude takes to new environments well and is rarely seen stationed in one place for too long a time. As a dedicated member of the Corps of Thirty, he maintains Sumeru's security, albeit in his own unique ways. While relations between the Akademiya and the Temple of Silence have improved, he also secretly acts as an undercover agent for the Temple should this bout of trust prove misguided on the Akademiya's part. As of now, he is currently on vacation leave, which he is using to travel around Teyvat. Residing in Fontaine, he is accompanied by one Hilda Valentine Goneril and Lorenz Hellman Gloucestor.

Currently in his possession is Failnaught, a heroes' relic that was gifted to him by his grandfather. Though mysterious, he trusts that he'll wield it well should the time of its use come.

Yuri - ☆☆☆☆☆

Vision: Electro Weapon Type: Sword Region: Inazuma Affiliations: The Shuumatsuban

Like many Shuumatsuban ninjas, Yuri's past is shrouded in mystery, but this fact has never hindered him from his job. Specialising in undercover work and assassinations, Yuri is thorough while maintaining a casual air that would ease many away from suspicion. Even so, there is a part of him that yearns for a better life for him and his fellow ninjas.

Currently in his possession is the Fetters of Dromi, a heroes' relic that was salvaged from Fatui supplies on one of his missions. While its use is unknown to him, he keeps it close in the case that it one day becomes useful.

Seteth and Flayn - ☆☆☆☆☆

Vision: Geo and Anemo, respectively Weapon Type: Polearm and Catalyst, respectively Region: Fontaine, (formerly Liyue) Affiliations: Adepti

In the wake of Rex Lapis' death, Seteth and Flayn took to travelling, which eventually led them to Fontaine. In the current day and age, they live a quiet life in the Fontainean countryside, caring for the surrounding wildlife and tending to their farm. In the past, however, Seteth and Flayn were devout Adepti who fought by Rex Lapis' side during the Archon War.

While not much has occurred in the peaceful life they currently lead, Seteth senses an incoming global change. Any measures made to further seclude themselves is for the sake of Flayn's safety.

Shez - ☆☆☆☆☆

Vision: Electro Weapon Type: Sword Region: No set region, encountered in Sumeru Affiliations: Treasure Hoarders

A prolific member of the Treasure Hoarders, Shez is renowned for his many escapades in locating and finding treasure. While being a Treasure Hoarder often gives people a bad impression of him, those who know him are well aware of his intentions. Likewise, his past is also shrouded in mystery. Not even Shez himself is fully aware what landed him in this position as a notable Treasure Hoarder.

Currently in his possession is the Asura Blades, a heroes' relic that Shez found (stole) from Khaenri'ahn ruins. Upon closer inspection, he too found it suspicious how it was positioned - as if the intent was for it to be found.

Dedue Molinaro - ☆☆☆☆

Vision: Geo Weapon Type: Claymore Region: Sumeru Affiliations: Aaru Village Guard, (the Fatui)

Reliable and steadfast, Dedue is a formidable member of the Aaru Village Guard. In truth, he also harbours a secret connection. Taken in by the Sumeru division of the House of the Hearth at a young age, Dedue was raised and eventually recruited by the Fatui. Proving his worth, he was then brought into Dimitri's vanguard, which then led him to being stationed out in Aaru Village for the sake of tracking down 'the professor' and maintaining safe passage for fellow Fatui personnel to pass through.

Hubert von Vestra - ☆☆☆☆

Vision: Electro Weapon Type: Catalyst Region: Mondstadt Affiliations: Knights of Favonius

Earning quite the repute as a Knight of Favonius, Hubert has often been questioned for his motivations. Though he makes it clear that his loyalty is solely towards the Knights and Edelgard herself, there are some who still cannot shake the feeling of something else beneath that cold visage of his. But others yet chalk this up to his role as an undercover reconnaissance mission soloist.

Ferdinand von Aegir - ☆☆☆☆

Vision: Pyro Weapon Type: Polearm Region: Mondstadt Affiliations: Knights of Favonius

A noble, but only in name, Ferdinand is determined to re-prove the worth and mettle of the Mondstadtian nobility in light of the many controversies that have come to darken the region's past. This is spurred further on by his father having gone missing, the trail of evidence leading itself outside of Mondstadt's borders. Right now, he is at a crossroads; should he stay and take on his role as the last remaining Aegir noble, or should he leave Mondstadt to uncover the mystery of his father's disappearance?

Hilda Valentine Goneril - ☆☆☆☆

Vision: Pyro Weapon Type: Claymore Region: Fontaine Affiliations: Spina di Rosula

Hailed as a master of her craft, Hilda is known for her work as a jeweller in Fontaine's fashion sphere. She is also a trusted member of the Spina di Rosula. That all being said, she is also just as well-known for her habit of leaving her projects to the very last minute, if not outright asking her employees or other members of the Spina di Rosula to complete projects for her.

Lorenz Hellman Gloucestor - ☆☆☆☆

Vision: Electro Weapon Type: Polearm Region: Fontaine Affiliations: Spina di Rosula

As an upstanding member of the Spina di Rosula, Lorenz's family has a long history serving the presidential line of the organisation and have often been seen supporting them by way of sponsorships. Though he may hold some qualms over how the Spina di Rosula currently runs, one can trust him to be loyal as a thoughtful confidant to whoever sits at its current head.

Ignatz Victor - ☆☆☆☆

Vision: Dendro Weapon Type: Bow Region: Sumeru, (formerly Fontaine) Affiliations: Akademiya

A Vahumana scholar that was sent to the Akademiya because of his merchant family's encouragement and desire for him to become well educated, Ignatz is reluctant but willing to learn in due thanks to the financial trouble it took for him to travel and apply. As much as he is determined to learn about Teyvat's history, his heart lies in the arts. Secretly, he's a widely renowned artist, known for his landscape and candid painting work. He works under the pen name of 'Verdi'.

[blackhakumen]

Mini Fanfic #1035: Taking the Challenge Head On (Fire Emblem Three Houses)

10:45 a.m. at the Blue Lion's Dining Halls......

Ashe: You want me to take part in the.....(Raises an Eyebrow in Confusion) "No Nut November Challenge"?

Sylvain: (Smiles Brightly) Yep! It's one of the few challenges to test your endurance, patience, vulnerability, and worth of being a true man.

Ashe: Ah I see. (Frowns a Bit in Uncertainty) But....do you really think I have what it takes to complete the challenge?

Sylvain: (Happily Nodded) Definitely. You're practically one of the most devoted and hard working guys I've ever known, besides yours truly of course.

Ashe: (Smiles Brightly) Why, thank you Sylvain. I know I don't say this as much, but I really wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for yours and everyone else's support and guidelines.

Sylvain: And we couldn't be anymore prouder of you, bud. (Wraps his Arm Around Ashe's Shoulder) Now listen, the challenge itself is gonna be a long road ahead and you'll might have a 80% chance of going crazy along the way, but I'm sure you'll have no problems making it through as long as you keep your urges in check and have a clear, neutral mindset. Just like our friendly neighborhood giant, Dedue-

?????: I failed.

Sylvain eyes starts to widens as he slowly turns his head towards to Deude sitting next to Ashe, drinking a cup of tea in a casual like Manner.

Sylvain: .............I'm sorry, you what?

Dedue: The challenge. I've already failed it-

Sylvain: Yeah, you already told me the first time. What I wanna know is how in the hell were you failed so easily? You're a Dedue Molinaro! The right hand man of King Dimitri himself! I figured if anyone in our unit would have a chance of completing the challenge, it would be you, what happened?

Dedue: (Shrugs) The temptations had gotten the better of me last night. (Starts Blushing a Little) I suppose that's.... the price I have to pay for being in love.....

Mercedes: (Happily Makes Her Way to the Boys' Table) Why, hello there, boys!~ I hope we're all having a wonderful morning today. (Uses her Two Fingers to Rub Under Dedue's Chin With a Bit of a Flirtatious Smirk on her Face) Especially you, my sweet gentle giant~

Dedue: (Chuckles Lightly By the Chin Rubs) I'm having a fine enough morning for the most part. As well as a nice and memorable last night, many thanks to you, of course, m'lady. (Gently Brings her Hand Down Before Kissing the Top of It)

Mercedes: (Giggles Softly and a Bit Ticklishly by the Kiss) Oho you!~ There's no need to thank me for that. (Lovingly Hugs her Lover) If anything, I should be thanking you for keeping me company all night~

Dedue: No thanks is needed. I'll always be there for you.

Mercedes: As will I, my dear~

The couple begins to romantically rub on each other's noses while the boys watches.

Ashe: Awwww~ (Suddenly Felt a Hand Covering his Eyes Before Turning to the Culprit) Sylvain!

Sylvain: This is part of the challenge, Ashe. Don't let it blind you.

Mercedes: (Giggles Some More) Alright. I believe it's time for me to get started on breakfast before I embarrass the boys some more. (Kiss Dedue on the Lips Before Placing her Forehead onto His) Try not to miss me too much, you hear?~

Dedue: I'm sure I'll manage to pull through for the time being. Try not to get yourself hurt while you're in the kitchen cooking, okay?

Mercedes: I'll be extra cautious. Promise. (Gives One Last Kiss on the Forehead Before Walking Away to the Kitchen and Waving Goodbye at the Trio) Wish me luck!~

Dedue: (Wave Back at his Lady) Well do. ('Sigh') One of these days, I will marry that woman.

Sylvain: Well, ain't that sweet. Still doesn't change the fact that you disappoint me. (Went Back to Grinning) But no worries though. Cause the next person I have to set an example is none other than my main man, Feli-

Felix: (Takes his Seat on the Trio's Table) I failed the challenge.

Sylvain: (Immediately Gives his Childhood Friend a Deadpinned Look) Seriously?

Felix: Yes, seriously. Last night, in her tent, Annette wanted to try and take the next skip I'm our relationship. So we....(Starts Blushing a Little) did it. And it was nice.

Felix turns to see Annette making her way to the kitchen door in the distance. As she opens it, she sees her boyfriend staring at her before shyly waving at him with a smile on her face and walk inside.

Felix: (Slowly Waves at the Closing Door Before Sighing) Anyways....(Turns Back to Sylvain) Mind telling me why you're bringing up that dumb challenge for in the middle of the morning?

Dedue: He wants Ashe to take part of it for the first time.

Felix: (Groans While Pinching his Nose) ('Ugh') Are you kidding me? Ashe is way too soft and naive to be taking that challenge, let alone know what it really is! (Turns to Ashe) No offense.

Ashe: (Smiles Sheepishly) None taken, I guess......

Sylvain: Hey, I just figured Ashe is now in an age where he could test his might as a man. But now that you and Mr. Gentle Giant over there failed the challenge already, I might as well ask Dimitri to come over here and set an example.

Dedue: About that......

Sylvain: (Starta Pinching his Nose in Annoyance) Oh my fucking-You mean to tell me Dimitri failed too? Really!?

Felix: I always figured the boar would have a better chance at completing it out of all of us here.

Dedue: (Takes a Bit of a Deep Breath Before Explaining) Okay, this is completely speculation and haven't heard anyone of this from, but.....the other morning, when I walked down the halls, writing down the daily routine for the day, I saw the professor sneaking a tray of breakfast into the majesty's chambers, whole only wearing a robe that resembles that of the majesty's.

Sylvain: A robe.....(Eyes Suddenly Begins to Widened at the Realization) Wait. Was the color of his robe blue and silky?

Dedue: (Simply Nodded) It was, yes.

Sylvain: Ahaa....See? I knew it would look familiar every time I see Dimitri wear it. (Starts Smirking Teasingly) So the king and teach are already getting busy these pass few nights, huh?~

Felix: (Shrugs) Can't say I'm surprised. Those two has gotten a lot more closer since the day they got see each other again for however long.

Ashe: (Smiles Brightly) Well, I'm happy for the both of them. They've been through a lot these past few years. So I think it's nice to see their bond gradually grow into something more each time passes. (Eyes Suddenly Widens at the Realization) Oh! That reminds me.....(Turns to the Gang) There's something I've been meaning to ask you guys.

Sylvain: What's up?

Ashe: What exactly is a....."Snu-Snu"?

Felix: (Immediately Gets Up From his Seat) And that's my cue to leave.

Ashe: (Watch Felix Casually Walks Away) Oh.... o-okay.....(Waves Goodbye to Felix) See you later, Felix!

Dedue: Uh...Ashe? What..... (Raises an Eyebrow in Uncertainty and Confusion) exactly made you want to know what that word is?.

Ashe: Well, you see, yesterday after we returned home from one of our....(Starts Blushing a Little) many date night sessions, Petra asked if we could ever try doing this "Snu-Snu" session this evening but I'm afraid I have no clue what it is.

Sylvain: (Starts Shaking his Head) Oh sweet, sweet, naive, Little Ashe. Let me tell you a little thing about those two simple syllabl-

?????: MESSAGE F0R SIR SYLVAIN JOSE GAUTIER!

Sylvain: (Immediately Gets Startled) Oh God! (Turns to see the Local Gatekeeper Presenting Him a Envelope) Uhhh....(Receives the Envelope) thanks....

As The Gatekeeper salutes to him before marching off, Sylvain opens the envelope and reads the letter from inside. The longer he reads it however, the more he begins to blush and let out abnormal, goofy like laugh, causing Ashe and Dedue to stare at him weirdly.

Dedue: Uhh....Sylvain? (Raises an Eyebrow) What exactly did that letter sent to you say?

Sylvain: (Immediately Comes Back to Reality) Oh! (Turns Back to the Fup as He Quickly Hides the Letter Behind his Back) N-Nothing! Just some boring.... request letter for a side mission or whatever. (Chuckles Awkwardly) Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna have to head out to see Ingrid at my bed- I mean chambers- I MEAN TRAINING GROUNDS! (Claps his Hand Together) YES! Training grounds! So uh.....

Without any second thought or reason, Sylvain hurriedly runs away towards the door leaving his two fellow Blue Lions behind in the Table.

Ashe: He....seems to be in a hurry.

Dedue: ('Sigh') That he has....We'll just head to the library to find out what this....."Snu-Snu" really is after we finish our breakfast.

Ashe: (Nodded in Agreement) Okay.

The hours has passed since Ashe and Dedue has discovered and learned more about the meaning of the word "Snu-Snu", so the up and coming knight has decided to man up and test this new discovered with his beloved princess of Brigid later that evening. Needless to say, as wild and unexpected as the experience was....He still had a very good time at the end

Blue Lions: FAILED AS A UNIT!

@keyenuta

@ma-lemons

@cyber-wildcat

@caleb13frede

@albion-93

[chiyu-japanese]

舞踏会ドゥレスイラスト3年目！毎年踊ってもろてるので

[emblemxeno]

If we're being honest, I got a lot of issues with Ingrid because I feel like she has the wrong character development

Her support with Dedue is realizing that she shouldn't apply her negative view of Duscur onto every Duscurian indiscriminately

That kind of thing works for Oboro because Nohrians really did kill her parents

But, Duscurians didn't actually cause the death of Lambert or Glenn, so her development should've been to learn that all those years of hatred were misdirected, and she hated them for no reason

It also didn't help that Dimitri states multiple times that Duscur didn't commit the crime, and Ingrid is still ignorant about it

I have this unhinged hatred of the Faerghus Four as a concept because every time, it's like they're consciously refusing to acknowledge the importance of Dedue in Dimitri's life in the present "Oh, these are Dimitri's childhood friends. Of course, they're close." Yeah, sure.... They're totally closer to Dimitri than Dedue is in the present.... *Internal screaming*

Combining these because my answer to both is similar!

In my opinion, it showcases how 3H's writing philosophy is ultimately shoddy in its foundation. The backstories, supports, and character-to-character dialogue itself is great in theory, but execution it clashed with what both FE usually tries to do and what 3H desperately wants to do.

FE typically has characters join chapter to chapter, with important ones having plot moments, while side characters fall to the background once their designated chapter is up. But this isn't at the cost of character interaction, pre-established relationships, and the micro-to-macro worldbuilding precisely because they're not overly important. You can have canon romances, friendships, familial relationships, etc. because that's all supplemental side material.

3H was written in a way in which the characters were all connected to its grandiose world, to the point where Fodlan itself can be almost considered a character. Multilayered backstories that infer key points in the narrative, each character no matter how trivial having opinions on how the world works, shifting dynamics, etc.

The problem though is that these two philosophies clash already at base, but also run into the problem of FE's gameplay integrated story elements.

None of the Faerghus Four can meaningfully comment on their relationship with Dimitri during a story cutscene because they can die. Ingrid can't meaningfully change her perspective on Dedue or Duscur beyond her supports because she can die. Therefore, all you get are (admittedly pretty good) supports, the monastery dialogue, and other tidbits intentionally disconnected from one another so as not to be important enough to write around potential death. The comments they do get in cutscenes were intentionally written in a way to be surface level and easily replaced. Look at the FEdatamine site for example, where conclusions are reached by Byleth, the lord, the unkillable retainer, and other important story figures, with numerous possible instances of "if X character is alive they comment this, but if X character is dead this line is skipped."

That is proof of how sloppy 3H's writing is in foundation when you think about it long enough. The game that has such an intricate world, thorough details, and fascinating story beats, is actually extremely bad at delivering a story, especially an FE story. Being the judgmental and petty cunt that I am, 3H gets a pass most of the time a) most don't care or bother to care about actual stuff like this and b) the game has the aesthetics of being a down to earth, gritty, serious narrative. The foundational issues don't matter when you have Edelgard yapping about "THE CREST SYSTEM", dark character circumstances, and intriguing mysteries to solve in part 1.

People want the appearance of sophistication, especially after Awakening and Fates bent a lot of rules to fuck around with their respective stories. It's why Engage, despite not having nearly as many basic issues at conveying its plot and is actually extremely good at being a Fire Emblem story (e.g. more character being able to actually die, pre-established relationships, chapter to chapter joining, not nearly as much centering on Alear as the ultimate decider on a character's fate compared to Byleth), is panned because... why? Its bright aesthetic? Its good dragon vs evil dragon plot? Its softer or humorous moments?

Hell, even its call backs to past FE games is called cheap, soulless, or a gateway to gacha (one video I saw even described it as something like "when art becomes obligation" or some such nonsense), despite it LITERALLY being the prime anniversary title. The main character is the Fire Emblem, and the writers-through Lumera-wish a happy birthday to Fire Emblem!!! What about that is lacking heart and soul?

But yeah, again, I preface that I'm a judgmental asshole who proudly proclaims that the audience (at least the western one) has for years been too obsessed with yearning for darker serious aesthetics of FE's past (despite said past being wackier than they remember), that when a new game has them in overflowing spades, the many fundamental video game writing issues do not matter as much anymore.

Aesop for the day: Serious tones and aesthetics are not automatically better than lighter, heartfelt, or funny ones. You still have to write well for a story to be good.

EDIT: Funny enough this is also why Three Hopes is a more comfy environment for the Fodlan cast's in terms of tangible development, because the things the writers want to do with that game's story complements its gameplay. Because KT is better at making Warriors plots than FE plots.

[frickingnerd]

all the lies we've told them

pairing: dedue molinaro x gn!reader (+blue lions)

summary: dedue and you try to hide the fact that you hooked up. but your friends are smarter than to believe your lies…

tags: silly & wholesome fluff, friends with benefits, smut/suggestive, reader wearing dedue's shirt, blue lions (+ blue lions!reader), academy phase, secret relationship exposed

“by the goddess… wake up, we fell asleep–!”

your slumber was put to an end by dedue, who shook you awake in a hurry. it took a moment before you remembered how you ended up in this situation and why it was so bad that dedue and you had fallen asleep. but when you did, you were wide awake!

“w-what time is it–!?”

you looked around the room, trying to remember where you had thrown your clothes. after dedue and you snuck away to your room, you hadn't really paid attention where you threw your clothes when you were stripping down. but now you wish you had!

“it's almost two! we'll miss professor byleth's class if we don't hurry–!”

finally, you spotted some clothes on the floor. with a blanket wrapped around you, you hurried to pick them up and put them on, as dedue did the same. in the distance, you heard the bell ring. your time was up!

“i can't find the rest of my clothes…”

dedue looked around the room, shirtless. but no matter how hard he looked, his shirt was nowhere to be found.

“we don't have any more time…”

“fine, i– i'll take the window, you take the door! i'll pass by my room and put on a spare shirt!”

you nodded silently.

“see you in class!”

you arrived on the training grounds shortly after the clock struck two. everyone else was already gathered there and you joined your classmates, trying not to let anyone notice how out of breath you were from running late.

“oh, there you are! we thought something happened, when you didn't show up earlier…”

annette smiled at you, as you joined the group. the other blue lions had gathered up already and dedue was the only one missing now. you hoped that it wasn't too suspicious that the two of you were both late…

“is that shirt new? it feels familiar, but i don't think i've seen you wear it before…”

with an innocent smile, mercedes pointed at your shirt. or rather, dedue's shirt! as you looked down on yourself, you realized that you had put on his shirt, without realizing it. both were white and part of your uniform, so you hadn't noticed, while hurrying to get dressed…

“you're right, it is familiar! i think dedue has one just like that–!”

dimitri pointed out, smiling as he pointed at the little details on the shirt. dedue was his retainer, so of course dimitri would know what his clothes looked like. but you wish he hadn't said it. while dimitri might've not noticed the implications of what he said, sylvain, felix and ingrid certainly had!

“is it a shirt that looks like dedue's shirt or could it be that this is–”

before sylvain could finish his sentence, ingrid and felix both slapped his arm, causing the redhead to wince.

and as if matters couldn't get worse, dedue joined the group at the worst time possible.

“apologies for being late! i spilled a drink on my shirt and had to get a new one. what did i miss?”

the other blue lions slowly but surely put together the pieces. and as you could see each one of them have a moment of enlightenment, your face got more and more red.

“d-did i say something i shouldn't have…?”

dedue noticed the tension, his voice quiet, as he glanced at you. slowly, you nodded and sighed.

“i think you did…”

[kitkatopinions]

Permission to ask about your favourite three houses ships?

Absolutely! My absolute favorite ship from Fire Emblem Three Houses/Hopes is Claude x Lorenz. I know a lot of people hate Lorenz, but I love him, and if you put in the work, his supports with Claude are just everything. They really seemed to lean into it for Three Hopes too. I mean just look at them.

LIKE?!?!?! How can they have this much chemistry and not get married?!?!? I didn't originally ship them, but there's some excellent fanart and once I started thinking about it, it felt so obvious and now it's my OTP.

But I have other ships! My other favorites are Dimitri x male Byleth, Caspar x Lindhart, female Byleth x Mercedes, Rhea x Catherine, Catherine x Shamir, Shez x Arval. And this might sound weird but I also ship Hilda x Dedue (because I wrote a fanfic once where Claude and the golden deer teamed up with Dimitri and saved him before the time skip and Hilda wound up harboring Dimitri and Dedue in her house secretly and me and the person I was writing with wound up loving the dynamic we created for her and Dedue,) and Felix x Holst but not as he is in Three Hopes (because that same fanfic was written prior to the release of Three Hopes so I'd invented my own version of Holst and he and Felix hit it off.)

Also I casually like the ship between Dimitri and Sylvain, Caspar and Ashe, Caspar and Ferdinand, Dorothea and female Byleth, and Leonie and Seteth.

So yeah, very few of them have supports where they wind up officially married, but I love them all the same. Also almost everyone in this game is queer and the only reason why only like four of them are canonical is because the writers are cowards.

[calamari-inari]

Playing this game (without the likes) 🫶

1. enemies to lovers, best friends to lovers, lord and their knight ❤️

2. Not sure if these are tropes, but yandere lover (just not a very big fan of yandere), obsessive love (treating their partner as a possession), misogynistic attitudes or abusive power in a relationship (basically a partner defining what their partner, whether it be a woman or man, should do or behave, and the victimized partner finds it hot???)

3. Gradual mutual understanding for one another! I also learn more about the characters' personalities this way!

4. One or both partners experience withdrawal when they're being separated from each other lol. True feelings often emerge from such situations and it's adorable...

5. Multiship! So far, the only ships I really think about now are from FE3H and a few from Engage and TGAA. Here's a list of several multiships I enjoy!

FE3H (Apparently Dimitri is very shippable to me LOL)

Hubert x Ferdinand

Hubert x Edelgard

Sylvain x Felix

Sylvain x Ferdinand

Dimitri x Ferdinand

Dimitri x Felix

Dimitri x Dedue

Dimitri x Claude

Byleth x any lord

Engage

Alear x Alfred

Alear x Diamant

Diamant x Ivy

TGAA

Kazuma x Ryuunosuke

Barok x Kazuma

Barok x Herlock

6. I like both rarepairs and mainstream! Most of the rarepairs I like don't have any canon interaction, so I like to explore the "what could've been" situations.

7. Monogamy. Not much to explain here. It's just my preference lol

8. Using my favorite pair ferdibert, they are reversible, but I have a really strong preference for dom Hubert and sub Ferdinand. However!! I'm not a big fan of where Ferdinand is written or drawn very femininely. This applies to any MxM pair. I'm not against the concept of femininity in males, but when used in a stereotypical fashion, it rubs me the wrong way. Just a subtle depiction of their relationship dynamic is perfect to me! I'm alright with seeing SFW artwork of the reverse and reading said fics, but NSFW is where I draw the line

9. Thinking about the games I've played, I can think of at least one pair I like to see romantically, so yes 😂

10. Not at all important! After all, my favorite is romantic fluff 🥺 Depending on the intensity of my liking for a ship, the NSFW aspect becomes more bareable since I'm still personally embarrassed consuming such content lol. I am vanilla. Ferdibert is highkey the only one I consume NSFW for

11. A lot of my MxF and FxF pairs are platonic to me! This is likely due to my aegosexuality, which is the closest explanation I can identify with. Not everything needs to be romantic. I find close friendships very heartwarming too 🥺

12. My top favorites right now are ferdibert 🖤🧡, sylvix ❤️💙, and diminand 💙🧡!

13. My favorite pairs from fandoms that I'm not really engaging in now are:

Madeleine Cookie x Espresso Cookie (Cookie Run Kingdom)

Victor x Yuuri (Yuri on Ice)

Link x Zelda (Skyward Sword version)

Reyn x Shulk (Xenoblade Chronicles 1)

Chrom x M!Robin (Fire Emblem Awakening)

14. Domestic fluff is really cute, but the official legal bonding of two partners isn't on my "must have" list for any romantic pairing. I really love seeing creations of my favorite pairs marrying though! Gives me the tingles every time and I just feel so happy 😍

15. As someone that made OC fan kids in the past, yes that is totally fine and I love seeing other people's interpretations for the same pair (if they don't have canon children). I've even made some for ferdibert before but I never fully flushed them out lol