Hero

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

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Tomai hadn't given the students any attention once they were dismissed, eyes focused on the words and symbols in the book in front of him. He had scarcely turned a page when Lienna approached him, even if he was a little surprised, but remained relaxed. Once the young woman had finished speaking, Tomai had sat up just a little--there was obviously very few topics that would gain his interest, but Lienna had definitely chosen the right one.

"That's correct, Miss Orhneaht," He said, giving zero attention to her previous pause and instead moving on with the conversation. "Even before my days at the academy crests have always held a peculiar interest for me, and once the position was offered with free reign over my study subject, I agreed to it."

Closing the book, his finger lightly scratched at Michail's writing, though underneath was a clearly printed title: The Father of Crestology's Top Theories. The book was plain otherwise, but when Tomai opened it again, a familiar crest to Lienna was shown with miniscule writing outlining the borders. "Crest research noticeably slowed down in the last few centuries, only to reveal new possibilities in the last few decades and throwing nearly everything to the flames. I intend to find the reason why," He tapped the Gautier crest before looking up at Lienna. "Is there anything in particular you had in mind? Or did curiosity and boredom lead you today?"

Meanwhile, the quivering blonde girl had done as promised and stared directly at the desk, almost refusing to look at anyone. Her nerves eventually calmed down, but she felt tired. Once the rustle and bustle of the other students moving came around, Isolde stood, fully intending to go straight to her room and hide. Well, that wasn't entirely true, she was a little hungry. Maybe she could grab a snack and work on her sewing? The seamstresses did a good job on her uniform, but she felt her sleeves were a little on the long side.

As the thought crossed her mind, a too-loud voice called out to her, and Isolde nearly cried. She was being invited somewhere? Oh, right, the...fight? Was it really a fight? Challenging a Knight was bold, yes, but she couldn't say it was wise. She had seen their strength firsthand, and while she wished it had been under better circumstances, she was acutely aware that messing with one was usually bad news. Isolde had half a mind to decline, but it'd be awkward if she didn't considering she had no good reason to decline. With a tiny sigh of defeat, Isolde shuffled towards the arena.

Kaira frowned as she watched Isolde, initially reaching out for her, but hesitated. She thought it best not to disturb the student, although she was a little alarmed at how many of them had instantly followed Michail. Some of them weren't even in the unit! Rubbing her temples, she felt it best to also go to the arena. She sincerely hoped no one would get injured and couldn't condone any of this, but at the very least she could step in if things got too dangerous.

Deciding to quickly make her way as well, she nearly bumped into Derec. "So sorry, Derec," She immediately apologize, lightly tapping his shoulder before running off.

Derec only offered a small wave before taking his own leave. As tempting as it was to watch the fight, he knew Auberon wouldn't let him live it down if he missed it. Oh well, the outcome was obvious. Instead, Derec let his mind wander as he walked to the church, missing out on Kellen's subtle escape and Auberon noticing the former's absence. Truthfully, Derec wondered if he could speak to Lord Ioannis again before the day would end, preferably alone. By the looks of it, however, both the captain of the Knights of Seiros and the archbishop's right hand man wouldn't leave his side not even for a moment. Not during the sermon, and not after, either. Tedious, but he supposed it wasn't surprising.

Ioannis finished speaking with a nun when Clarissa approached him. He watched the girl curiously, his head following hers as she curtsied. His eyes lit up at her name, nodding as she finished talking. "Yes, Clarissa von Edmund of the Rose Unit. Or did we decide to call it the Rose Class? Either way, it's a pleasure to meet you," His manner of speaking fit an adult rather than the child he was, and while his energy didn't match hers, it was obvious he was just as happy to talk to her as she was talking to him. "I'm so very pleased you have come, surely the Goddess is just as enthused as you are to have you here."

Auberon's arrival had surprised Ioannis a little, but he still shared his warm smile. "It's no trouble at all, and the honor is mine," Ioannis asked, bowing his head as well. "Thank you for attending, I know the first day is full of excitement and disorientation, but hopefully Her words can bring you some strength to get through the day."

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2020 Highlights?

I got a PS5 and a 3080 so I'm pretty sure I've used up all my luck for the decade. Silver linings!

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

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Veronica made careful note to keep track of all the relevant people. She had to admit she was surprised there were maybe only a handful she wouldn't bother giving the time of day; a majority of the students were from relevant families within their nations. It would definitely make the school year easier, even if she was sure that the faculty could use some culling. The blond professor in particular was laughable, making a claim to knighthood when no one in their right mind would believe that for a second. Still, the rest weren't nearly as impressive, and she wasn't thrilled about the idea of essentially being used as a guinea pig.

All the other students had finally finished introducing themselves, including the coward prince and the less-than-pertinent Eagles. Oh well, she was used to having to be the bigger person and make sure she was properly presentable. If she had to drag this idiotic trio across the finish line, so be it.

Standing tall with her chin held high, Veronica's expression made her disdain for the entire ordeal crystal clear. Still, she would at least try to be civil. For now, anyway. "I am Veronica Berenike von Gerth, future princess consort of Adrestia," She stated clearly and concisely. "My likes include horse riding and art. My dislikes include ignorance, indecisiveness, and those who would run from confrontation like cowards." She pointedly threw a glare at the back of the prince's head, taking her seat promptly and crossing her arms.

Each professor was equally pleased at everyone's participation, from Kaira's gratefulness for Auberon's piety, Michail thrilled to have his art recognized, and Euphemia unable to prevent herself from bringing a hand to her forehead. Once it was clear that all the introductions were finished, there was a quiet murmur among the professors before Michail would clap his hands. "Wonderful. Absolutely wonderful," He was all too giddy at this point but kept himself relatively under control, but it was hard to deny that he was definitely enthused by Valerian's challenge. So much so, in fact, that he added, "I'll be at the arena after this. If you'd like to put that to the test, I'm more than happy to oblige."

"I agree with Professor Michail on the...first part," Lysander cleared his throat. "Once again, we thank you for your understanding and patience and look forward to our year together. I suppose with all that out of the way, we'll dismiss you once again. Feel free to get comfortable with your dorms--I believe the assignments are on the bulletin board outside--and lunch will be served soon. Lord Ioannis is just about to begin the midday sermon as well, and while optional, I highly encourage everyone to attend! Most of the other Knights will also attend, I believe Captain Kalliope will be there, and--"

"All those looking for a show can come on over to the arena," Michail winked at the class.

"--if there are any questions or concerns, our doors are always open," Lysander sighed, shaking his head. "Dismissed."

That was all the permission Michail needed, giving his fellow professors a bow before striding between the desks, whistling at Valerian. "Come on, Little Aegir, let's see if that bark has any bite to it," The blond beckoned for Valerian to follow, throwing open both doors and hiking it to the arena.

Tomai seemed wholly disinterested, albeit he did immediately go towards the nearest empty seat and open up his book, choosing to read. By how he made himself comfortable, it was obvious he had no intention of moving for some time. The remaining trio lingered for a moment before deciding to go to the church together.

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A variety of student and commoner gathered in the resplendent cathedral, quietly offering prayers before taking their seats. Some would offer up charity to the statue of the goddess before leaving, and a few of the clergy spoke in low voices as they lit up candles along the benches. Archbishop Ioannis was primed and ready to begin, offering a wave to the passerby and responding in kind. The same man stood near him, patting his shoulder before walking away a few paces to speak with a woman. Unlike a majority of people, she commanded respect with every movement, her blank expression betraying her true nature. After a brief interaction, she offered the man a bow, taking a seat towards the front.

"Calamity Kalliope attending a midday sermon? It must be a slow day for the Knights of Seiros," A man in the crowd muttered to himself.

"There's quite a few of them around," The one next to him spoke, gesturing to the same bench Kalliope sat at. At a second glance, it looked like he was right as there were an assortment of knights seated patiently and either conversing among one another or just waiting for the sermon to begin.

Once it looked like everyone was settled, the Archbishop read from one of the scriptures. The enthusiasm he had was somewhat infectious, lifting the spirits of those who attended. The gentle sound of the church's organ rang through, encapsulating the holy spirit. As the image of the goddess smiled down at all from the glass pane, the sermon concluded. The cathedral was shortly filled with the buzz of quiet conversation, and the Knights scattered to different areas of the church.

Sirius returned to Ioannis' side, his expression hardening a touch as Kalliope joined them. Despite the momentary tension, it dissipated as quickly at Lysander's arrival. "Forgive the intrusion, but I thought I'd let you know things went well," Lysander spoke slowly, looking between the two. "...am I interrupting?"

"Not at all, Professor," Sirius replied, giving Kalliope a weary look.

"It's best we leave our discussion for another time," She seemed to agree before giving Lysander her full attention. "Although I will say that I'll be a lot more common around here."

Lysander frowned, a little confused by her statement. "For lack of activity or for safety purposes?" He asked.

"Insightful as ever," Ioannis giggled. "I think I'll take advantage of the presence of so many knights and roam the cathedral." He gave the trio a nod and a smile, deciding to mingle among the people.

Chionne made her exit rather quickly, deciding to head back to the stables, though she nearly bumped into a less-than-pleased Euphemia. "Sorry Ginger, needed to get out before Theo sees me," She apologized. "I swear, every time I look over my shoulder, he's just there, looming."

"Probably because you keep sneaking out at night and scare the heavens out of the night guard," Euphemia rolled her eyes, having no sympathy. "Have some tact, Chionne."

"What, you mean with those rumors?" Now it was Chionne's turn to roll her eyes. "The night attacks have happened on the ground, and I have been in the sky. I'll be fine."

"That isn't what I meant," She shook her head. "Whatever the case may be, caution should be exercised. Or at least anything that lets me sleep better, I'm going to have my hands full with my students and Michail this year. Could you kindly explain to me why you couldn't teach the Golden Deer again?"

"I wasn't going to get suckered into teaching a bunch of spoiled brats. Michail kindly fell on his sword for the rest of us, and for that, I appreciate him. Hang in there, Ginger," Chionne patted Euphemia's shoulder, resuming her walk to the stables.

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Become Anime Girls, Destroy Robots

I didn't read anything beyond this but I'm interested

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

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Why were there so many nobles?

Isolde slowly blinked as she tried to unravel everything, but that one thought seemed to dominate. This entire 'class' was strange, from being the only people having to go somewhere to the circumstances around it. All of the professors showed up, they're told the archbishop himself chose them--but all it did was raise several alarms in Isolde's head. Professor Roland hardly gave any real answers, too. Unity? A test of faith and morality? Why now? There were only so many reasons one could pick that didn't point to the inevitable bad end to those sorts of questions!

In a quiet panic, the blonde tried to subtly look around. Everyone else seemed calmer than she was, and almost eager to introduce themselves. Was she overthinking? Was she looking for an enemy where there were none? Her stomach was starting to hurt, as if telling her that she was stressing herself out. Of course, by the time she realized this, all of the Blue Lions had introduced themselves as well as the other Golden Deer. So really, she barely registered everyone's name and had a stomachache and wanted to quietly melt into the ground. Oh dear...

Forcing herself to stand on shaky legs, Isolde drummed up every etiquette lesson she had to stand tall. Or at least try, anyway; she was sure she probably looked like she was about to faint. Okay, all she needed to do was introduce herself, take a seat, then wait for the bell to dismiss them and lay down in her room. Except her voice was caught in her throat. "...Isolde Ordelia..." She managed to squeak out, clearing her throat as she felt a lump forming. "...I like knitting and sewing and...I don't like this..." She muttered, hastily taking her seat and keeping her eyes planted firmly on the table in front of her as she hugged her stomach.

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Current Mood in One Gif

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

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The extra class spot had already given Derec a bout of nervousness as it was, but it intensified somewhat at the sight of all five professors gathered. For a moment, he almost thought the class was in trouble, but looking around they didn't seem like the type to get in trouble. Well, that wasn't entirely accurate, but no one could deny there was a polish among most of the students that couldn't be ignored. It made Derec feel a little out of place, but that wasn't anything he wasn't used to. The 'lecture'--or should he call it some words of wisdom?--that Professor Roland gave put some unneeded weight on the students. At least, it definitely put more weight on Derec.

Fortunately, the lackadaisical Professor Kalonic--Professor Michail decided to have everyone introduce themselves. Unfortunately, Derec was thrown right back into his previous discomfort. Would he be recognized? He wanted to think that since Auberon Galatea hadn't, it meant that he was essentially incognito. It would be nice to lay low and enjoy the year while he could. On the other hand, if he was outed, it could reflect poorly on him.

Despite being buried in his thoughts, he was able to keep a tab on matching names to faces, raising his eyebrows at a few--the Golden Deer in particular seemed like a rambunctious bunch. Kellen Fraldarius' introduction did make him chuckle a little, but he remained polite. After all, it was imperative to get along with those he was going to stay close to, and he seemed like a decent kid. Auberon was...Auberon, even if it was good to see him stay consistent. The dual-wielding-prayer-and-weapon part did surprise him a little, though. Lienna did nearly break him, however: how one from the cooler Faerghus disliked the cold was puzzling. But hopefully they could get along, too.

Just as he thought he had made up his mind on how to introduce himself, however, the last student revealed themselves to be the crown prince of the empire. Any doubt in Derec's mind suddenly vanished--nope, he was going to lay low and go with the flow. No need to expose himself to any potential enemy.

Deciding to take his chance, Derec stood up. "I'm Derec Ballard," He introduced himself with a smile. "I like making weapons and accessories, and as for dislikes, I prefer cooler temperatures and don't do as well in the heat. I look forward to working with you all."

Short, sweet, and to the point. After giving a bow, Derec reclaimed his seat, feeling satisfied. As he smoothed out his jacket, however, he caught Professor Michail's lingering stare, a tiny smirk on his lips. The redhead blinked slowly, confused, though Professor Michail gave his attention to the next student with the same smile he wore before. Was he trying to tell him something? He was a knight, but as far as he was aware, he didn't come from any major noble house. Maybe Kalonic was a minor noble he hadn't heard of? Maybe Derec was just being paranoid? Exhaling a short breath, Derec tried to put it out of his mind, focusing on the rest of the unit he'd be spending the next year with.

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Of Blood and Magic

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Oh Lilie was mad. So mad that she definitely considered just walking out the door and going back to her room to cry. The only thing stopping her was that she was pretty sure someone would notice, and after lingering in the hall for a few seconds, she rejoined the group in the seating room. Plopping herself back down in her old spot, she ran a finger around the edge of her cup, watching as the water followed it. She tried to pay attention to the conversation at hand, but all her brain could do was replay her cowardice over and over again. The soul crushing disappointment at her chickening out at the last second was gonna haunt her for the whole weekend.

Maybe it was for the best? Aaron was all "butler mode" and it wasn't like he could really do or say anything aside from a token response. Ha, that was rich, she was assuming she'd get any reaction at all! And even if she did, it wasn't like it would be in her favor--she was optimistic, yeah, but she felt a lot of doubt that Aaron felt the same way. Then again, this was the first time the shoe was on the other foot; back home she was the one that was always asked out. So many movies and stories always made the ordeal romantic and easy, too--maybe she was just bad at this, too.

Realizing she had been quiet, Lilie tuned back to the conversation, quietly taking a sip to excuse herself from not talking. It looked like some of the teachers were a little loopy, and that much interested her. Esi was nice, so fortunately they didn't have any problems, but she did have a lot of energy. Not that Lilie minded at all! It helped with her own enthusiasm, so she appreciated it.

"I like Esi," Lilie decided to rejoin the conversation. "She does prefer to go by her first name, so I guess some people think that's eccentric? But aside from that, she's really nice."

Lilie took another sip of her drink, stopping when she remembered their first meeting. "Although...when we first met, she came out of the sea. And she forgot to, um..." Hm, was this something she was supposed to share? Now that she thought about it, it was kinda inappropriate, wasn't it? But she couldn't just stop, someone was gonna ask what she was going to say! "...she forgot to form her swimsuit." She finished quietly.

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Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

Twelfth Bell, 3rd of the Great Tree Moon

The first day of orientation had finally come to a close with the sound of twelve bells singing from the cathedral. Students were free to roam the grounds and better acquaint themselves with their surroundings--after all, Garreg Mach would be their home for the next year. Many were eager to take on the sights, what with the dining hall, the cathedral, and the marketplace all being attractive options to explore. And for those that still held some discomfort, the dormitory was still somewhere they could retreat to.

Of course, the exception came for one class unit that was instructed to meet in the Blue Lions Classroom. Thirteen students were expected, and waiting for them seated patiently behind a larger desk was Professor Lysander. He rested his chin on his hands, eyes staring at something that wasn't there. Once the students started to gather, however, he straightened up immensely, wearing the same kindly expression he always did. As the last student took their seat, Professor Kaira closed the door, joining the other three house professors at the front of the classroom with her hands together.

Lysander got up from his seat and stood in front of the students, taking a gaze at all of them before he cleared his throat. "Thank you all for coming. My name is Lysander Roland and I am honored and humbled to meet you all," He said with a soft voice, giving the class a short bow. "As some of you are already aware, this year the Officers Academy is choosing to--well, to be honest, this year I am choosing to do things differently. While tradition has long since guided our way, I feel that a little change can do no harm."

Euphemia frowned at Lysander, but he continued, "In truth, Fódlan is experiencing an instability that hasn't been seen in centuries. The Black Plague sweeping the Empire while they navigate relations with Dagda is enough to upset the balance, but both Kingdom and Alliance have had their fair share in trial and tribulation as well. Because of this, it is prevalent to do what we can for the people of Fódlan. For your people, for your brethren, to offer a hand to thy ailing neighbor as the scriptures dictate...the time will come sooner than later where faith and morality will be tested."

There was a heavy, odd silence that followed Lysander's words. Tomai let out a muted sigh, shaking her head at the dark haired man. As he caught his eye, he cleared his throat, a little concerned. "That was more ominous than intended! I sincerely apologize," He chuckled nervously, shaking his head. "What I meant is--what I mean to say is that now, more than ever, reaching across borders and taking your neighbor's hand is important. That is the reason we have split the classes into 'units' as opposed to separating them by house. By combining the three, it is my hope that relations between students will see through nationalism."

Another pause followed, but it was more comfortable and mostly because Lysander forgot what he was going to say next. He snapped his fingers as he remembered. "I thought I had more to say, but honestly, I think that about covers it," He said, missing Euphemia's facepalm. "Well, this group in particular does have a small advantage over the others. Lord Ioannis in particular picked this unit out! That's neat, isn't it?"

"Y-Yes, Professor, but I believe you had more to say..." Kaira piped up, trying to steer Lysander back in the proper direction.

"Did I--? I did. How bothersome, my memory is just not what it used to be," He sighed. "This unit will be looked after a little closer than the others. Aside from a few heirs and some royalty among you, some classes and missions will be handled differently. Students participate in requests given by surrounding villages as a way to both give back to the community and to give the students experience. In addition to those, there will be the odd mission here and there that will take you to the other churches to offer your assistance. Think of it as a trial for future generations!"

Lysander seemed satisfied, taking a seat back behind the desk. The other professors avoided exchanging looks, but were a little more confident. Euphemia nodded, deciding to say a few more words. "All of us here--that is, Professor Michail, Prifessor Malathice, and myself included--implore you to reach out to us if you ever need a guiding hand as well," She told the class with a smile, though she noticed Kaira's delated look. "And Professor Kaira, too, of course!"

Michail chuckled, deciding to join Euphemia. He motioned for Tomai to join him, but the man preferred to stay where he was. For now, Michail decided to focus on the students. "On that note, how about everyone here go ahead and introduce themselves?" He suggested. "I'll start it off. I'm Michail Kalonic, Knight of Seiros turned professor, and I'm from the Kingdom. I like horse riding and fighting, and I dislike people telling me what to do. Explains why I decided to teach, right?" He joked.

Euphemia was less than thrilled at Michail, but Lysander loved it. "That's a great idea!" He agreed, much to the chagrin of the blonde. "Oh, but I already introduced myself. Why don't the rest of you go ahead, that way each student knows us all?"

Tomai seemed to disagree, but relented. "Tomai Malathice. I like crest research. I dislike Michail," He replied plainly. Michail's smile never left his face, but he did look over at Tomai.

"I am Euphemia Kalonic--the Goddess blessed me with only one brother but could only do so much with Michail--and I like books and nature. I dislike bugs, though," Euphemia followed suit obediently, giving the class a playful wink.

The three then looked to the green haired girl, who seemed to forget she was a professor for a moment. Considering the gap in age, it was probably understandable. "Oh! I am Kaira Simeon, and I like...praying? Oh goodness, I feel like I could give a better answer than that..." Kaira furrowed her brow, trying to think. "I like a lot of things, and I don't like some things, but that is...not very specific. Oh dear..."

"While our lovely Kaira decides, who wants to introduce themselves first?" Michail asked as he smoothly transitioned attention to the classroom, looking at the students. "Don't be shy! Just stand up and introduce yourself!"

Why Is No One Joining My RP (General Advice Thread)

"what does success mean for me as a GM/RPer"

@BangoSkank

Honestly, even if the rp dies, so long as I had fun and had good memories, I consider it a success? Idk in my head a rp dying =/= failure per se, though I guess you can argue it depends on when it died. Failure to launch rps are easy enough to discern I think