Deciding the Future

Deciding the Future
File:Forging Bonds Deciding the Future.png
Event Characters
Bonus Accessories
Start time	2023-02-17T07:00:00Z
End time	2023-03-03T06:59:59Z
Previous: Emblems, Heroes Next: Her Shining Future

Availability

This Forging Bonds event was made available:

• 2023-02-17T07:00:00Z – 2023-03-03T06:59:59Z (Notification)

Rewards

Points	Reward	Points	Reward	Points	Reward	Points	Reward
10	Lucia's C Conversation	10	Elincia's C Conversation	10	Bastian's C Conversation	10	Geoffrey's C Conversation
25	50	25	50	25	50	25	50
50	300	50	300	50	300	50	300
75	50	75	50	75	50	75	50
100		100		100		100
150	50 1,500	150	50 1,500	150	50 1,500	150	50 1,500
200	10	200	10	200	10	200	10
250	50 1,500	250	50 1,500	250	50 1,500	250	50 1,500
300	Lucia's B Conversation	300	Elincia's B Conversation	300	Bastian's B Conversation	300	Geoffrey's B Conversation
350	50 1,500	350	50 1,500	350	50 1,500	350	50 1,500
400	1	400	1	400	1	400	1
450	300	450	300	450	300	450	300
500	50 1,500	500	50 1,500	500	50 1,500	500	50 1,500
550	300	550	300	550	300	550	300
600	50 1,500	600	50 1,500	600	50 1,500	600	50 1,500
700	50 1,500	700	50 1,500	700	50 1,500	700	50 1,500
800	Lucia's A Conversation	800	Elincia's A Conversation	800	Bastian's A Conversation	800	Geoffrey's A Conversation
900	300	900	300	900	300	900	300
1,000	10	1,000	10	1,000	10	1,000	10
1,100	300	1,100	300	1,100	300	1,100	300
1,200	5 1,500	1,200	5 1,500	1,200	5 1,500	1,200	5 1,500
1,300	300	1,300	300	1,300	300	1,300	300
1,400	300	1,400	300	1,400	300	1,400	300
1,500	Lucia's S Conversation	1,500	Elincia's S Conversation	1,500	Bastian's S Conversation	1,500	Geoffrey's S Conversation
1,600	2	1,600	2	1,600	2	1,600	2
1,700	300	1,700	300	1,700	300	1,700	300
1,900	300	1,900	300	1,900	300	1,900	300
2,100	300	2,100	300	2,100	300	2,100	300
2,300	300	2,300	300	2,300	300	2,300	300
2,500	1,500	2,500	1,500	2,500	1,500	2,500	1,500
2,750	300	2,750	300	2,750	300	2,750	300
3,000	10	3,000	10	3,000	10	3,000	10
3,250	500	3,250	500	3,250	500	3,250	500
3,500	10	3,500	10	3,500	10	3,500	10

Special conversations

Deciding the Future

Deciding the Future - Opening

Elincia	The stress that must come with being under constant threat of invasion is almost more than I can fathom. Lucia, Geoffrey... I would like to aid the Order of Heroes in their important work protecting Askr.
Of course. As always, your wishes are our commands, Your Majesty. You need only give the word.		Lucia
Geoffrey	No matter the world, Lucia and I are devoted to seeing your every order be made reality.
Thank you both. It is heartening to have the two of you here by my side. You are like family to me. Ah! Princess Sharena! As you may have overheard, we three will spare no effort aiding you in your cause.		Elincia
Sharena	That's wonderful news. Thank you! I'm sure we'll need your support sooner rather than later.
It is truly humbling to be in the presence of such unflinching devotion—it touches my heart! I fear I could not adequately express my joy at your joining us in words... It would simply take too many!		Ash
Sharena	I seem to remember there being another Hero who was summoned along with you? He had a funny little mustache, if I recall...
Ah, you mean Bastian. He hasn't been back since setting off to take care of something this morning.		Lucia
Geoffrey	He mentioned wanting to take in all the sights and sounds that Askr and the Order of Heroes have to offer. He may be on the...unique side, but he, too, is a loyal retainer to Queen Elincia. He will surely lend his aid.
I have heard only praise about all those who accompanied you here, so I look forward to meeting him.		Ash
Bastian	I have returned once more! My thanks for granting leave to wander as I will, Your Majesty.
Welcome back, Bastian. I would hear it from the man himself: What sights did you witness out in Askr?		Elincia
Bastian	This land is one of bounty, truth be told. The kingdom's people place full faith in the Order of Heroes. Though it is a land of many differing ways of life and ways of thought, all those here work in harmony. The sights I have witnessed are like visions from a future Crimea, a dream here made real.
That is high praise! This is surely not just any kingdom we've found ourselves in...		Geoffrey
Bastian	I could expound upon its many qualities for hours and hours—I need but word from Queen Elincia.
While I understand the good Count Fayre may have all the time in the world, she, unfortunately, does not.		Lucia
Bastian	Alas! A shame indeed... If you desire a shortened tale, I shall present my view abridged! To speak in simple terms: Askr's kingdom stands deserving our most fierce allegiance. I fully endorse Her Majesty's choice to lend our aid to Askr.
That puts my heart at ease. Let us then devote our full effort toward assisting the Order of Heroes.		Elincia
Bastian	Ah, first, my queen, I would offer a humble read of the Order's tactics... In truth, if they maintain the present path they tread, defeat will surely come for them in the days ahead...

Deciding the Future - C

Lucia	The Order will be defeated? Are you certain of this?
Yes, explain yourself, Bastian. Their barracks are full of an impressive array of Heroes from other worlds. Need I remind you that among their number is the ever-reliable Ike—AND his band of Greil Mercenaries? I have even heard that they enjoy the support of beings who rival the gods themselves!		Geoffrey
Bastian	And that is why I have arrived at such a position as I have. Listen well, dear Geoffrey... We know the Order welcomes in stronger allies with quite some frequency, Heroes all. Yet what progress is made abating their long state of distress? To state it brief, none at all, it seems.
Then, you believe the specter of war that looms over Askr is inescapable?		Elincia
Bastian	Heroes come to Askr by way of their gates, brought by the summoner, one and all. If some ill fate befell the summoner, Askr soon would suffer, their well of might run dry.
Then the solution is obvious. We four need only ensure that no harm comes to 【Summoner】.		Geoffrey
Bastian	The logic is sound, my queen. Yet...another issue does beg our attention. We have of course already found one fatal flaw in the Order’s path, but there is one more to think on still. In truth, it may be this that will demand more of Askr’s strength to overcome than the first...
Out with it already, Bastian!		Lucia
Bastian	Each Hero who now serves Askr is little more than the Order’s aid. All hail from home far away; none call this world their first, true home. As we have a duty to our homeland Crimea, so, too, do they hold their lands and folk above all else. Believing Heroes here will put their their lives at risk for Askr as they might their comrades is a risk... We have, in our time, seem firsthand how one’s devotion to a cause must be complete lest victory be at risk.
I see... I will need to think on this.		Elincia
Bastian	The Order is balanced on the edge of a blade. In the end, my worry may be over nothing. But if not, what then?

Deciding the Future - B

Elincia	Hmm...
Here are the reports you requested, Your Majesty.		Lucia
Elincia	...
...Princess? Ah, I mean, my queen... Is something troubling you?		Lucia
Elincia	Forgive me, Lucia. My mind had begun to wander...
Ah... Think nothing of it. If anyone’s behavior needs to be excused, it is mine, surely. Old habits are difficult to break, but you are my queen now, and I must address you as such. Was it Count Fayre’s words that disturbed you? Bastian may have spoken...more that he ought to.		Lucia
Elincia	I would be lying if I said I have not been preoccupied with his words since he spoke... The future of Crimea depends on my safe return. I cannot in good conscience put my life at risk here. And yet, Askr is facing the same crisis here and now, before our very eyes...
Indeed. It would be inhumane to turn a blind eye to the suffering the people face, wherever they are. Bastian’s overindulgence aside, I suggest we redouble our focus on the situation we’re in.		Lucia
Ash	Ah! Hello, Queen Elincia, Lady Lucia. How are you two fairing on this lovely day? I do hope you are both well! And how are you adjusting to your stay here in Askr? Please, if there is any way I can help you, do ask...
Thank you for your consideration, Ash. We have been treated only with kindness since we arrived.		Elincia
Lucia	As the days pass, it has become more and more apparent just how much we Heroes are relied upon. Her Majesty and I were just in the middle of discussing how we might best contribute.
I have to admit, I am delighted to hear that! It brings me such joy to have Heroes work so hard for Askr. This is surely what Father—or, rather, what Lord Askr would have hoped from our visitors from other worlds. Your dedication gives the people hope—hope that tomorrow will be a better and brighter day than today.		Ash
Elincia	Ah, yes, I had heard you are the retainer to the Divine Dragon who founded this kingdom. To be so close to such a divine figure, you must be someone of a lofty stature yourself.
Oh, no, I’m afraid I do not see myself like that... “Divinity” is far too much for someone like me, truly. I am merely a servant—one sincerely devoted to this kingdom, to which every other world is connected.		Ash
Lucia	Every other world... Hmm... Ash, may I ask you a question?
Of course! I will happily provide any answers I am able to! It would be my pleasure to share anything I can. Though, if it is a question about why I get drowsy after eating, I’m afraid to say I do not have that answer...		Ash
Lucia	Actually, my question is whether it’s possible for the forces that threaten Askr to enter those other worlds.
Hm... Well... Askr has always kept its gates open for anyone and everyone, without exception. Though, it is possible to imagine a scenario in which malevolent forces were to use the gates...		Ash
Elincia	So, you‘re saying that, if these forces were to be left unchecked, the threat could spread even to Tellius?
Yes... Lord Askr’s intention when opening connections between worlds arose from his exuberant optimism. We must hope his vision for this land is not taken advantage of by those seeking unsavory ends...		Ash

Deciding the Future - A

Bastian	So, Askr’s fate is linked to ours and to Crimea’s... This is what you have concluded then, Your Majesty?
If what Ash said is true, the foes Askr faces do not threaten Askr alone... Should the Order fail or fall, their enemies will be free to threaten other worlds beyond this one.		Elincia
Lucia	So ensuring Askr’s success also keeps the people of Crimea safe by extension. The final outcome of the conflict here, if not in Askr’s favor, could expose our people to great suffering. We must not allow that to happen.
Aha... Intriguing indeed! This news reveals facets of the Order I had not yet considered myself. The missing piece explaining why the Heroes fight so stalwartly for Askr has now come to light!		Bastian
Geoffrey	My vow is to ensure Her Majesty’s chosen path lies clear before her. That is how I can show my devotion.
As you have said, Bastian, the threats to Askr grow by the day. I believe that, if the Heroes can work together, we can overcome any obstacle that confronts us. And by aiding Askr, we aid Crimea. That is reason enough to lend all our strength to their cause.		Elincia
Bastian	Bravo! I believe I stand corrected, Your Majesty... You’ve become a queen now, strong and wise! My doubts dispelled, I feel we ought to raise a cheer to our sure victory!
If Crimea is the treasure, then Askr is the vault. As leader of the Royal Knights of Crimea, I will guard both. It is a great duty that rests upon our shoulders, but my lance is ever at the ready. I will not fail here!		Geoffrey
Lucia	We are not alone in this. I have no doubt many Heroes share similar hopes for their kingdoms.
Once again, I must ask each of you to lend me your strength. Let us join together to ensure that no more blood of the just is spilled within our beloved homeland. We not only protect Askr, but all the nigh-uncountable worlds to which it is connected.		Elincia

Lucia: Tireless Advisor

Lucia: Tireless Advisor - C

Velouria	Mmm-mmm! Nothing like a good, solid meal to raise your spirits!
Oh? Why, hello there. You look to be enjoying yourself. Those ears... Are you a laguz child from Tellius?		Lucia
Velouria	Laguz? I’m no “laguz”, I’m a wolfskin. My name is Velouria.
My apologies, Velouria. It seems you are different from the laguz I am accustomed to in my world. I am Lucia, of the kingdom of Crimea. I have only just arrived in this place called Askr. Well then, with introductions out of the way... Might I ask what that is you’re feasting on?		Lucia
Velouria	Oh, it’s a lamb shank. I got lucky— this one has so much meat on the bone!
A lamb shank? Hmm... Why do I feel like I’ve heard someone mention a lamb shank before...?		Lucia
Ilyana	Now that our bellies are filled to the brim, we can begin this month’s meeting of the Heavy Plate Corps. Why don’t we start by going around the room and hearing the latest from each member?
This binder contains the dossiers we’ve compiled on the newest restaurants in the castle town!		Ingrid
Effie	Commander Anna requests that we consider reducing our food intake... again.
Motion denied! Food is our fuel. How can we be expected to win our battles without it?		Rinkah
Ilyana	Raphael sent back some things he’s scavenged on his trip so far. They all look especially delicious...
OK, that’s everyone, right? Your attention, please. I have an important proposal to put before the group. Someone who I believe would serve us well as an honorary member has recently arrived in Askr...		Ilyana
Rinkah	Huh? Not a full-fledged member?
You see... Though she herself is not a gourmand, her cooking skills are second to none. The Heavy Plate Club would benefit greatly from her culinary expertise, don’t you think?		Ilyana
Lucia	Forgive me... I did not come to Askr to pursue a career as a chef.
Oh. I see... That’s... I...		Ilyana
Ingrid	Keep it together, Ilyana! The shock of rejection on top of your usual hunger pangs is causing you to tremble! We’re sorry to have troubled you, Lucia. Please, don’t mind us.
You must understand... I made the trip here in order to serve Her Majesty, Queen Elincia of Crimea. With things as they are, I daresay my sword is more valuable than my spatula. Would you not agree?		Lucia
Ilyana	B...b...but...

Lucia: Tireless Advisor - B

Rinkah	I see... Well, it’s not like I can find any fault in her logic. She seems to have a clear goal in mind.
Yes, and she isn’t willing to bend in pursuit of that goal, either. This may be a lost cause...		Ingrid
Ilyana	Aww... I was hoping to sneak a taste of some of the cooking my future self will be able to enjoy...
I wanted her to whip up some snacks that Lady Elise and I could nibble on together...		Effie
Rinkah	We’ve returned with empty stomachs, and that’s that. Let’s not dwell on this one grievous failure. We eat ferociously and in return, fight ferociously. It’s our job to keep up our end of the bargain.
Urgh...		Ilyana
Ingrid	That’s odd. I could have sworn I saw her heading this way...
Hello, Ingrid. Are you looking for someone?		Effie
Ingrid	Ah, Effie! Perfect timing. Have you by chance seen Ilyana?
Erm... Which one?		Effie
Ingrid	Uh... Not the one who attended the harvest festival, or the child...
Oh, in that case, I was just with her on the battlefield, but she seemed a bit out of sorts...		Effie
Ingrid	I knew it! I saw her stumbling around a while ago. She was headed in this direction.
Ah! Look over there... I think someone’s lying in the shade of that pillar.		Effie
Ilyana	Oooooo...
Oh no! Ilyana, are you all right?! Say something, please!		Ingrid
Ilyana	Phew... Much better, I’m stuffed! I haven’t been laid out like that in a while. I’m glad you were there.
It was a first for me, at least on the castle grounds... You must have been pretty ill.		Ingrid
Ilyana	In a sense, yes... My appetite just wasn’t what it used to be...
Could have fooled me. You did just down a full five plates of food, you know...		Rinkah
Effie	Even so, there’s no mistaking that her condition isn’t normal.
Imagine... You follow a little trail of crumbs, fully expecting to find a scrumptious cookie at the end... But the trail just continues on with no end in sight... At some point, it simply becomes too much!		Ilyana
Ilyana	I think this may have something to do with not getting any of Lucia’s cooking...
What do you mean?		Effie
Ilyana	I’m too young to have had the opportunity to try her cooking for myself, but... For some reason, I’ve been stuck thinking about it day and night!
Sounds like you two have some sort of subconscious attachment to her cooking.		Rinkah
Ingrid	With Lucia now here in Askr, Ilyana’s hunger for her cooking must be going into overdrive. Being denied that seems to be having an adverse affect on her health all the while!

Lucia: Tireless Advisor - A

Lucia	In summary, you’re saying that Ilyana’s condition will only improve if she eats some of my cooking?
That’s the idea. I’m glad you catch on so quickly!		Ilyana
Lucia	When I first met her during the struggle for Crimea, she was barely able to stand on her own two feet. I treated her to a meal simply out of concern for her health. After all, I could hardly leave her in that state.
If she really was on the brink of death, the memory of that meal must be seared in her mind.		Ingrid
Lucia	She seemed pleased with it... Happy enough to eat more than anyone I’ve ever seen, at least. In any case, I can’t worry about that now. If her condition is that bad, it must be addressed straight away. There’s no time to waste. I assume you know where she is... Please, take me to her.
Oh... Hello again, Lucia... I’m sorry to still be such a burden...		Ilyana
Lucia	It’s quite all right. Listen... Do you remember when I told you that you had to stay fit and battle ready?
Yes... When you first introduced yourself...		Ilyana
Lucia	When last we spoke, I told you that I came to Askr to fight, not to cook. This still holds true. However... One could argue that keeping our allies in good health with a proper meal is just as vital to the cause.
You mean, keeping us safe and keeping us full are equally important?		Ilyana
Lucia	Exactly. Here, this soup should help lift your spirits. It’s made to be easy on the stomach.
Oh! It is...*slurp*... I mean, it was delicious.		Ilyana
Ingrid	Blink and it’s gone, huh? To the last drop, no less...
Proof enough that she’s returning to normal! Now that I caught a whiff, it does smell pretty enticing...		Rinkah
Lucia	I was going to warn you to be careful not to burn your tongue, but I suppose that’s no longer necessary.
This is it! This is the flavor that I’ve been missing for so long... I feel...whole again!		Ilyana
Effie	I can see the light returning to those dead eyes as we speak. She’s almost overflowing with vigor!
They were only half-dead, not full dead.		Ilyana
Ilyana	I’m so happy! Lucia, you make such delicious meals. You’re so beautiful and strong... I would eat anything...everything that you cook for me...
Erm... I see. Am I to take this as a sign of your happy recovery?		Lucia
Ilyana	I feel we’re making good progress! I think another ten bowls or so should do the trick...
Ten bowls?! That’s not fair! How will there be any left over for us?		Ilyana
Ingrid	I must agree. This seems like a wonderfully delicious opportunity to expand out palates.
Very well. I’ll make sure that there’s enough to go around. Wait here a moment, would you?		Lucia
Eat up while it’s hot! I hope the Crimean-style seasoning is to everyone’s liking.		Lucia
Ingrid	Thank you for the meal. I can’t believe it’s finally time to dig in! *slurp* Oh... Oh my!
Delish! But...it’s not just hitting my tongue... My muscles feel like they’re bursting!		Rinkah
Ingrid	As do mine! What a strange sensation... It’s like my entire being is shooting toward the sky!
Mmm... I think I’ll need another bowlful or two, just to be sure...		Effie
Lucia	I’d better watch myself, lest they try to take a bite of me... In any case, there’s plenty to go around. Enjoy.

Lucia: Tireless Advisor - S

Rinkah	Whew, that was some feast! I feel totally nourished, in body and spirit!
Now I see why my future self is so fixated on your cooking...		Ilyana
Ingrid	That was indeed a welcome treat. Thank you very much.
Likewise. I enjoy seeing how much my cooking is appreciated. It wasn’t easy to prepare such a large amount, but your smiling faces make it all worth it in the end.		Lucia
Effie	I’ve eaten all kinds of delicious food from all over, including here in Askr... But this may be the first time I’ve eaten something that makes me feel truly happy.
I wonder... What if the reason Lucia’s cooking is so special... Is because she keeps the person she plans on serving it to in mind as she makes it?		Ilyana
Lucia	Hmm...
It’s more than the flavor itself... It’s imbued with a genuine desire to nourish the spirit.		Ilyana
Lucia	Well, it’s true enough that my goal when cooking for you is to ensure that you’re well-fed...
There’s more to a good meal than the ingredients alone, right?		Ingrid
Rinkah	It all makes sense. This is why she nominated Lucia as an honorary member of the Heavy Plate Corps.
Cooking is caring. It’s good to be reminded of that simple truth.		Effie
Ilyana	This isn’t our last meal, right? It would be so wonderful if I could have your cooking again...
Wha— Don’t look at me with those puppy dog eyes!		Lucia
Ilyana	There’s no turning back now, Lucia... Heehee...
Bah. Fine, then... But do not forget that my duty is first and foremost to Queen Elincia, now and forever. When she does not require my attention, I suppose... I can spare some time to cook.		Lucia
Ilyana	Really? I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you ever so much. I don’t need breakfast, lunch, AND dinner. Just one out of the three should be enough...
Er... Every day? Now wait just a minute here...		Lucia

Elincia: Devoted Queen

Elincia: Devoted Queen - C

Elincia	It seems the bandit force’s right flank is falling apart. Follow me! We will end this here and now.
W-wait, Queen Elincia! You shouldn’t push too far ahead of the front line!		Sharena
Elincia	Do not fret, Princess Sharena. I am more than capable of taking care of myself.
Look! The enemy is on the run. We’ve already won!		Reginn
Elincia	Not quite. Any bandits who escape us here will be free to terrorize villages elsewhere. We cannot let this foolish cycle of violence continue. They must be disarmed and dispirited.
As you wish... Princess Reginn, it’s time for one final push!		Sharena
Reginn	I hear you. I’m in this fight for the long haul!
Your Majesty, we have confiscated all bandit arms and armor. They no longer have the means to fight.		Geoffrey
Elincia	Well done. Now the villagers can rest easy knowing that no more danger lurks in the shadows. I am also heartened to hear that our allies suffered no casualties. Come, let us return to the castle.
Whew. I really put my Gullinbursti through its paces today, huh?		Reginn
Sharena	You fought hard, Princess Reginn. You and your armor were a blur on the battlefield! And Queen Elincia’s command ensured that we came out on top without a scratch.
I hardly recognized her. She was so confident... You could really sense that queenly strength!		Reginn
Sharena	Agreed! Her resolve was certainly heartening to see.
I want to learn everything I can from her so I can be an amazing future queen for Niðavellir!		Reginn

Elincia: Devoted Queen - B

Sharena	Good morning, Princess Reginn!
Morning, Princess Sharena!		Reginn
Sharena	We don’t have any training sessions scheduled for today, right? Where are you off to at this hour?
I’m hoping to sit down with Queen Elincia for a bit, actually. There’s so much I want to ask her!		Reginn
Sharena	Oh? Do you have something on your mind in particular?
It’s just... I’ve never known her to be the type to lead the charge on the battlefield.		Reginn
Sharena	That’s true. My image of her has always been someone who commands from the back.
Right? But now she’s leading by example, doling out orders with a fire in her eyes.		Reginn
Sharena	I think it’s brought out more in the other Heroes too. Almost like her presence helps them dig deeper.
It’s clear that something’s changed, and I can’t help but wonder why...		Reginn
Sharena	Oh, now you’ve got me curious too! Why don’t we find out together?
Sharena	Could you possibly be...undergoing some manner of head-to-toe, mind- over-matter ascetic training?
That’s gotta be it! Now that your spirit is sharp as a tack, you’re feeling ready to take on the world!		Reginn
Elincia	You two have colorful imaginations. Alas, I’m almost reluctant to say that I have not undergone such training.
Huh?! You’re...you’re sure? But there’s definitely something different about you... I can tell!		Reginn
Elincia	I see. Well, Princess Reginn, if you insist that I’ve changed, and I had to venture a guess... I would say that I don’t have myself to thank for that, but my subjects in Crimea instead.

Elincia: Devoted Queen - A

Elincia	I have only spoken of this to those closest to me, but...initially I had no desire to become queen.
Whoa, really?!		Reginn
Sharena	Oh, that’s not what I expected! Looking at you now, I see the very picture of grace and courage... On top of that, you are kind and compassionate. You’re everything anyone could ask for in a queen!
When the kingdom of Crimea fell under Daein’s ruinous thumb, I became a princess in exile. Even so, with the help of devoted retainers and brave heroes, we were able to wrest back control. We rebuilt, but the scars of war were left to fester, and voices clamoring for revenge grew even louder.		Elincia
Reginn	So...kicking Daein out wasn’t enough to put a stop to the conflict?
Unfortunately not. The people were one thing, but that wasn’t all... The nobles had their own ideas. From dawn until dusk, they jockeyed for authority, eventually devolving into rebellion, right under my watch. I was unaware of my potential as a strong leader for Crimea...and that only served to unnerve everyone.		Elincia
Sharena	I see. I had no idea that something like that happened...
At the time, I was desperate to avoid conflict for fear of alienating those who looked to me to set an example. If I was not queen, then I would have a plausible excuse to avoid the power struggle consuming the palace.		Elincia
Reginn	I get it. Wanting to avoid conflict is only natural for someone as kind as you.
However, I came to realize that certain wrongs could not be made right with kindness alone. Some decisions must be made in spite of the pain they cause. As the leader of my kingdom, I learned that lesson at the cost of innumerable sacrifices.		Elincia

Elincia: Devoted Queen - S

Sharena	So...you think some decisions must be made in spite of the pain they may cause?
Do you recall the skirmish with the bandits earlier? My older self would have let them escape. They had already given up the fight. Why cut down those who had no will to continue resisting?		Elincia
Reginn	Yeah, that makes sense.
In the moment, perhaps. But we must remember that, if given the chance, they may later attack again. It may seem cruel, but unless evil is excised at the root, it will only fester and spread. As ruler, it is my responsibility to ensure that does not happen. Even if it requires painful decisions...		Elincia
Reginn	You’ve thought about this a lot, haven’t you? I can tell it’s coming from someplace deep.
I can only speak of where my path has led me. You two must find and forge your own. Fear not. I have complete faith that you are capable of leading your people into a wonderful future.		Elincia
Sharena	In spite of the pain... I get it! It’s like, not being afraid to dish out some tough love, right? You need the courage to say someone’s in the wrong when you catch them in the act!
Sharena	Alfonse! You shouldn’t skimp out on sleep just to get a bit more training and studying in!
Oh, uh... Right. I suppose I’m not doing my health any favors. Thanks, Sharena.		Alfonse
Sharena	Resting well is a job in and of itself. Be sure not to push yourself too hard out there!
Sharena	Commander Anna! You shouldn’t be auctioning off collectible portraits of the Heroes to the highest bidder!
Huh? Why not? They’re big sellers, you know. Really help beef up the Order’s budget.		Anna
Sharena	Even so, I’m sure we can find alternate sources of income if we try! I’m counting on you!
Uh...what’s gotten into her? Is it just me, or is she not going to take no for an answer?		Anna
Reginn	She might have, uh, misunderstood some things...
Princess Sharena... That forward- looking attitude of yours will surely provide encouragement to many. We all journey through our lives from one decision to the next. Some are large and others small. So long as we are not afraid to make painful decisions as needed, the future will remain bright. Please do not forget that the path we royals must walk is built upon a great many sacrifices.		Elincia

Bastian: Crimea's Keystone

Bastian: Crimea's Keystone - C

Fae	Hurry, Eir! You gotta see this guy. His tricks are the coolest thing EVER!
Slow down, Fae, or you’ll trip over the carpet. You wouldn’t want to get injured, would you? We’re almost—		Eir
Midori	Oh, hello, Princess Eir! Have you come to see what the street performer has up his sleeve today?
So you’re interested as well, Midori? What could be so enthralling about this street performer?		Eir
Bastian	Well now, who do we have here? Skin as pale as the shimmer of water illuminated by moonlight... Do my eyes deceive me, or are you the hauntingly beautiful maiden of death, Princess Eir? Though my heart already belongs to my beloved Lucia, I would be remiss to ignore your loveliness. Pray allow me to dedicate this meager-but-earnest display to your ethereal beauty. Ta-daaah!
How did you produce a bouquet of flowers out of thin air?		Eir
Nowi	Oh, wow! This guy’s hands are practically a bed of petals!
I am Bastian, the count of Fayre, come from Crimea at the behest of 【Summoner】. May these flowers serve as a symbol of our newfound friendship, ever and always in the fullest of bloom.		Bastian
Eir	Thank you. I must confess, that is quite the mesmerizing trick.
I am pleased beyond words to have earned such high praise. Alas, I am unworthy of your honeyed plaudits! Oh, but do not think that I have forgotten about my excitable little audience. Perish the thought! For you, mere flowers will hardly suffice. Watch my hand carefully, and you will soon behold...a treat!		Bastian
Fae	Hooray! I love candy! Gimme, gimme! Oh, and thanks!
Phew. I see that my performance skills are as sharp as ever, even in this strange new world. Well, I did toil endlessly to ingrain those tricks into every fiber of my being...and there they remain. Forgive me, but has the gentleman skulking in yonder shadows come to witness my spectacle as well?		Bastian
Volke	Hmph. You’re pretty popular for a guy who’s just arrived.
Well, well, if it isn't the Fireman himself. What a coincidence that we should reunite in Askr. With the Greil Mercenaries together, it’s little wonder that you, General Ike’s very shadow, are here as well.		Bastian
Volke	You know more than you let on, pal. Guess you’ve been sniffing around here from the start.
What do you take me for, a hound? Gathering intelligence is only natural. Does your own trove not run deep?		Bastian
Volke	Pay me ten thousand and I’ll answer that question. The information itself will cost you ten times that, though.
Alas, you haven’t changed a bit. Even in Askr, the Fireman operates under his own set of rules.		Bastian
Volke	Look who’s talking. It’s clear that you already have a big bag of tricks at your disposal... But you may just learn something from a guy I know. As a jester, he’d give even you a run for your money. Don’t judge a book by its cover, though... He’s a lot sharper than his getup would suggest.
A clown on the inside AND out is merely that: a clown. However, if what you say is true... I do hope that you will be generous enough to proffer a name, at least?		Bastian

Bastian: Crimea's Keystone - B

Bastian	According to the Fireman’s intel, he should be loitering somewhere in this vicinity... Aha, you there!
Huh? Ain’t seen you around before. Must be a new Hero, right? Gotta say, diggin’ the ‘stache and hairdo.		Xane
Bastian	Oh ho, what a splendid costume! You are the spitting image of the traditional trickster, my boy! I am Bastian, the count of Fayre. Under the guise of a traveling performer do I ply my trade. But how better to demonstrate such than with a surprise show! Fly free, my pretties!
Ooo... The old doves-from-the-cloak bit, eh? Not bad, not bad at all! The name’s Xane. I only put on this getup for a festival. I ain’t some pro entertainer or nothin’. That said, I guess I can’t deny I like to clown around every now and then. Kinda like this!		Xane
Bastian	What is the meaning of this?! It is as if I were staring into a mirror of the purest glass!
I am Bastian, the count of Fayre. I do hope the three of us—me, you, and my mustache—get along.		Bastian
Bastian	Hoho, a perfect imitation, down to my vocal chords! I must say, I am beyond impressed. Bravo!
Thanks, though it ain’t some kinda act. It’s just somethin’ I’ve got a bit of a knack for.		Xane
Bastian	Aha, then shape-shifting comes naturally to you? Most intriguing. Even so, I should think it takes great skill to imitate someone with such authenticity. I wonder... Is this unique talent of yours not wasted in a sideshow? It belongs on the battlefield! Why, think of how much discord you could sow by impersonating an enemy commander or two!
Discord... Right... You humans are all the same. Power’s gotta be used. Wars gotta be won. Thanks, but I’ll pass.		Xane
Bastian	Pardon? Where are you— Wait, friend! Blast. Perhaps this bears further investigation...

Bastian: Crimea's Keystone - A

Bastian	My good Sir Xane, I humbly beg your pardon for such a callous appraisal of your considerable talents.
No need to apologize, pal. I’m not about to bite your head off for the thoughts that go through it.		Xane
Bastian	You should know that I inquired of Commander Anna, Princess Sharena, and Prince Marth about you.
You did, did you?		Xane
Bastian	Their stories reminded me of the laguz dragon tribe from my home, the continent of Tellius. You are a manakete, one who possesses the power to change their form into that of a dragon.
Technically, yeah. But I ditched my dragonstone a long time ago. There’s no turnin’ scaly for me now.		Xane
Bastian	I was informed that in your world’s distant past, there transpired a war between humans and manaketes. In the midst of that conflict, you refused to take a side, and instead simply watched events unfold.
Well, I was rootin’ for both human and dragon at first. That’s what the Divine Dragon Naga wanted, actually. Problem was, the human population just kept growin’ and growin’, along with their arrogance and greed. Eventually they decided they didn’t want to share with us anymore, and that’s when the blows started flyin’.		Xane
Bastian	Yes, indeed...
Don’t get me wrong... It’s not like every human was out huntin’ down manaketes, and vice versa. In fact, Naga believed that humans were the future, and that we should guide them on their journey. That said, I can’t really blame Medeus for the fight he and the other Earth Dragons picked. He was just actin’ in self-defense. In the end, a decent option never came my way, so I stayed out of it.		Xane
Bastian	That may be so, but I also heard that you aided Prince Marth long after that war came to a close.
Eh, princey’s special. Too straightlaced for his own good. Had to make sure he stayed outta trouble, y'know?		Xane
Bastian	Then he was the rare exception to the rule... May I take this to mean that you yet abhor humanity?
Well now, who can say? Only thing I know for sure is I’ll never get tired of teasin’ the Order of Heroes and their friends.		Xane

Bastian: Crimea's Keystone - S

Bastian	I see. So that is why you yet don the outfit of a jester so long after the festival has passed.
Speak for yourself, buddy. There are two jesters here. Right side up, upside down, the authentic and the fabricated... We wear many deceitful faces. The more layers you peel away, the harder it becomes to know where our true faces are.		Xane
Bastian	A pointed observation indeed. I daresay your experience ever so slightly overshadows mine.
You’re the complete opposite of princey. Heart’s too hard. But that’s fine... Keeps things interesting.		Xane
Bastian	Tricksters operate on the fringes of society, making their living from sideshow performances. The multitude of conflicts that Askr faces, however, demand the earnest and dedicated effort of all involved. We would certainly welcome the contributions of a stalwart ally such as you to this noble cause.
Hate to break it to you, but how much I get involved depends on how you humans decide to act.		Xane
Bastian	The Order of Heroes has managed to build a roster of allies whose power defies traditional measure. Working out a way to put that talent to use would do wonders for our battlefield performance. Ah, but listen to me... Yet again my thoughts turn toward the sordid endeavor of warcraft. Sir Xane would surely twist his face in disgust again were he to hear me. I must focus on peace. But even then, it is no easy thing for the powerful to manage their own power. That being the case, it falls to tricksters like me to support them from the shadows. Should we each play our part, our mutual support may yet bear fruit in due time...

Geoffrey: Realm's Protector

Geoffrey: Realm's Protector - C

Geoffrey	Hiyah! Heeeyah! Not enough... Not nearly enough! This effort is not satisfactory.
Geoffrey, you’re really working up a sweat with all this training. Do you not deserve a rest?		Alfonse
Fjorm	The sun is about to set, and I could have sworn that I saw you begin at the crack of dawn...
It is kind of you to show me such consideration, Prince Alfonse, Princess Fjorm. However... We Royal Knights of Crimea cannot shirk our training if we wish to avoid a second stinging defeat.		Geoffrey
Alfonse	Yes, Sharena has apprised me of what happened in Crimea. Truly a mournful fate...
Reduced to ruin and misery, its people left in a deplorable state. All because we were overcome.		Geoffrey
Fjorm	I know too well the pain of losing your homeland. It can cut deeper than any battle wound. Seeing the land of your forebears and the bodies of your beloved subjects reduced to cinders and ash...
Indeed, and that is why milady Queen Elincia is determined to never allow such a tragedy to transpire again. To do so, she must remain safe, and yet...in Askr she may only call on a handful of retainers, including me. It falls to me to shield her from harm in the stead of the Crimean people, so that she may return whole.		Geoffrey
Alfonse	And to better shoulder that heavy burden, you’re pushing yourself this hard... I see.
That is not all. Interacting with the Order of Heroes has revealed to me that I must grow. At the very least, I must ensure that my lance skills are sharp enough to overcome any battlefield eventuality.		Geoffrey
Fjorm	If there’s anything that we can help with, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Agreed. You are a friend of the Order of Heroes, so your success is our success. We’re here for you.		Alfonse
Geoffrey	It heartens me to hear that. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must train to live up to both of our expectations!

Geoffrey: Realm's Protector - B

Lucia	Your Majesty, we may be surrounded if we stop here. Let us head southeast where the enemy is thinner.
I understand. Geoffrey, you shall accompany us as well, yes?		Elincia
Geoffrey	In a moment, milady. First, I will act as a diversion to draw their eyes away from our main force.
Fear not for Geoffrey, Your Majesty. He is more than capable of carrying out this task. We should hurry to—		Lucia
Geoffrey	Hold, Sister! I see rustling in the canopy ahead consistent with the movement of cavalry!
An ambush?! The enemy must have anticipated that we would seek the path of least resistance...		Elincia
Geoffrey	Blast it all! If Bastian were here, he would have spotted this trap long before it was even sprung.
No matter what happens, do not leave my side, Your Majesty!		Lucia
Elincia	Fight well, you two. But do not push past your limits.
As you command! There is no time like the present to show you the fruits of my training!		Geoffrey
Lucia	I won’t...back down! Phew... Who would have thought they could keep this many troops hidden?
There are reports of a new group of archers dead ahead. Watch the sky carefully, you two!		Elincia
Geoffrey	The sky? No! Your Majesty, behind you!
Hiyah!		Black Knight
Lucia	He defeated the enemy in one fell swoop... Was the Order of Heroes able to spare reinforcements?
...		Black Knight
Geoffrey	I recognize that armor... You’re the Black Knight of Daein!
Continue southwest to the forest’s edge. Support will arrive shortly.		Black Knight
Elincia	Thank you for your aid, Sir Knight. Come, you two. We should be off.
...		Black Knight
Geoffrey	Wait! Why did you, of all people, deign to help us?
There’s no time for that, Geoffrey! Escorting the queen to safety must be our first and only priority!		Lucia
Geoffrey	Rgh... You are correct, Sister. Very well. We ride with all haste!

Geoffrey: Realm's Protector - A

Geoffrey	Last night’s battle put us in a precarious position...from which we were rescued by the Black Knight. What reason could a soldier of Daein, our mortal enemy, possibly have to risk his life for ours?
Oh! It’s good to see you, Geoffrey. I wish you hadn’t been thrust into combat so suddenly after arriving.		Alfonse
Geoffrey	Do not fret, Prince Alfonse. Pray remember that it was thanks to your reinforcements that we survived. If I had been strong enough, we could have easily turned the tables on our own...
Is something the matter? You look completely crestfallen...		Alfonse
Geoffrey	During the ambush last night, we were rescued by none other than the Black Knight of Daein. He was chief among those who brought Crimea to ruin in the war...so why did he help us now?
Hm... It may be that he’s not the Black Knight you recall from your memories.		Alfonse
Geoffrey	What do you mean by that?
Even if you recognize someone by name and appearance, they may not be from the same world as you. It could be that in another world, their destiny charted an entirely separate and novel course.		Alfonse
Geoffrey	Is... Is that really possible?
Oh, you’ll find that some Heroes have lived very different lives—and may not even be the same gender! One thing is certain, though: any who have pledged to aid the Order of Heroes can be called our allies.		Alfonse
Geoffrey	I do not know where to begin...
Earlier, you said that it falls to you to shield Queen Elincia from harm in the stead of the Crimean people. In that case, why not think of the Order of Heroes as an extension of the Royal Knights of Crimea? There’s no need to shoulder this burden on your own. Whatever you can’t do alone, we can do together.		Alfonse
Geoffrey	You honor me once again, Prince Alfonse. Your kind words have lifted the veil from my eyes. I now clearly see the path forward, in what I must accomplish in Askr and how I must act as a Hero.

Geoffrey: Realm's Protector - S

Bastian	I see.. So that is how events saw fit to unfold. A great deal has transpired since your arrival, hm?
I was only concerned with keeping Her Majesty safe, even as danger yet plagued the Askran people. In my single-minded zeal, I let myself forget how a knight in her service should act.		Geoffrey
Bastian	That may indeed be the case, but remember this: should the queen in fact wish to extricate Askr... then is stands to reason that by protecting Her Majesty, you protect the people of Askr at the same time. You need not reproach yourself so. If you wish to make amends, make them on the battlefield.
You are right as ever, Bastian. I remain in your debt.		Geoffrey
Bastian	Listen, my friend. You would do well to take the young Prince Alfonse’s exhortation to heart. “Your success is our success.” Lucia and I—nay, the whole Order of Heroes—will always stand with you. Let us work together to ensure that harm befalls neither Queen Elincia nor the people of Askr!
Indeed. The burden placed upon the Royal Knights of Crimea may be too much for one man alone to bear.		Geoffrey
Bastian	The Black Knight is my bitter foe as well. Still, you know what they say about the enemy of my enemy... So long as our goals remain aligned, we would be remiss to not make use of such a skillful sword arm.
I see now that those who work with the Order of Heroes can be counted on as present allies, despite the past. After all, we could not hope to save Askr without first putting aside our individual differences of opinion. That being the case, I swear to let bygones be bygones and join hands with the other Heroes as one myself. I pray that, in doing so, we move one step closer to Her Majesty’s vision for the future...		Geoffrey

Story
Previous: Book VII, Chapter 7: Part 5: First Meetings ←		Next: Ludveck: Rebellious Duke →

In other languages

Language	Name
Japanese	未来への決断
German	Gemeinsames Schicksal
Spanish (Europe)	Por el futuro
Spanish (Latin America)	Por el futuro
French	Décision pour l'avenir
Italian	Per il domani
Traditional Chinese (Taiwan)	通往未來的決定
Portuguese	Decidindo o futuro