Mercenary Matters

Mercenary Matters
Event Characters
Bonus Accessories
Start time	2019-11-07T07:00:00Z, 2020-07-11T07:00:00Z
End time	2019-11-21T07:00:00Z, 2020-07-19T07:00:00Z
Previous: Common Virtues Next: Path to the Future

Availability

This event was made available:

• 2019-11-07T07:00:00Z – 2019-11-21T07:00:00Z (Notification)
• 2020-07-11T07:00:00Z - 2020-07-19T07:00:00Z (Notification)

Rewards

For a list of general Forging Bonds rewards, see Forging Bonds.

Original run

Points	Reward	Points	Reward	Points	Reward	Points	Reward
10	Ewan's C Conversation	10	Tethys's C Conversation	10	Gerik's C Conversation	10	Ephraim's C Conversation
25	50	25	50	25	50	25	50
50	200	50	200	50	200	50	200
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	200	200	200	200	200	200	200
250	50 1,500	250	50 1,500	250	50 1,500	250	50 1,500
300	Ewan's B Conversation	300	Tethys's B Conversation	300	Gerik's B Conversation	300	Ephraim'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	200	450	200	450	200	450	200
500	50 1,500	500	50 1,500	500	50 1,500	500	50 1,500
550	200	550	200	550	200	550	200
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	Ewan's A Conversation	800	Tethys's A Conversation	800	Gerik's A Conversation	800	Ephraim's A Conversation
900	200	900	200	900	200	900	200
1,000	200	1,000	200	1,000	200	1,000	200
1,100	200	1,100	200	1,100	200	1,100	200
1,200	5 1,500	1,200	5 1,500	1,200	5 1,500	1,200	5 1,500
1,300	200	1,300	200	1,300	200	1,300	200
1,400	200	1,400	200	1,400	200	1,400	200
1,500	Ewan's S Conversation	1,500	Tethys's S Conversation	1,500	Gerik's S Conversation	1,500	Ephraim's S Conversation
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	500	3,000	500	3,000	500	3,000	500
3,250	300	3,250	300	3,250	300	3,250	300
3,500	10	3,500	10	3,500	10	3,500	10

Rerun

Points	Reward	Points	Reward	Points	Reward	Points	Reward
5	Ewan's C Conversation	5	Tethys's C Conversation	5	Gerik's C Conversation	5	Ephraim's C Conversation
15	50	15	50	15	50	15	50
25	300	25	300	25	300	25	300
35	50	35	50	35	50	35	50
50		50		50		50
75	1,500 50	75	1,500 50	75	1,500 50	75	1,500 50
100	10	100	10	100	10	100	10
125	1,500 50	125	1,500 50	125	1,500 50	125	1,500 50
150	Ewan's B Conversation	150	Tethys's B Conversation	150	Gerik's B Conversation	150	Ephraim's B Conversation
175	1,500 50	175	1,500 50	175	1,500 50	175	1,500 50
200	1	200	1	200	1	200	1
225	300	225	300	225	300	225	300
250	1,500 50	250	1,500 50	250	1,500 50	250	1,500 50
275	300	275	300	275	300	275	300
300	1,500 50	300	1,500 50	300	1,500 50	300	1,500 50
350	1,500 50	350	1,500 50	350	1,500 50	350	1,500 50
400	Ewan's A Conversation	400	Tethys's A Conversation	400	Gerik's A Conversation	400	Ephraim's A Conversation
450	300	450	300	450	300	450	300
500	10	500	10	500	10	500	10
550	300	550	300	550	300	550	300
600	5 1,500	600	5 1,500	600	5 1,500	600	5 1,500
650	300	650	300	650	300	650	300
700	300	700	300	700	300	700	300
750	Ewan's S Conversation	750	Tethys's S Conversation	750	Gerik's S Conversation	750	Ephraim's S Conversation
800	300	800	300	800	300	800	300
900	300	900	300	900	300	900	300
1,000	300	1,000	300	1,000	300	1,000	300
1,100	300	1,100	300	1,100	300	1,100	300
1,200	1,500	1,200	1,500	1,200	1,500	1,200	1,500
1,300	300	1,300	300	1,300	300	1,300	300
1,450	10	1,450	10	1,450	10	1,450	10
1,600	500	1,600	500	1,600	500	1,600	500
1,750	10	1,750	10	1,750	10	1,750	10

Special conversations

Mercenary Matters

Mercenary Matters - Opening

English

Nameplate	Text
Background image: 002_PlainForestInside
Ephraim	I've been thinking, Lyon. We were summoned here to fight for Askr's peace, but at the same time, I wonder...am I being tested?
Lyon	As unlike you as this manner of introspection is, Ephraim...it pleases me to see.
Ephraim	That is why I've decided to serve Askr not as the prince of Renais, but rather as a humble mercenary.
Lyon	I thought you might have something like that in mind. You want to test your potential as a soldier, without politics getting in the way. But are you not concerned about neglecting your royal duties?
Ephraim	When I carve out my future, it will be with my lance. Not with my title. I hope that, when history remembers me, my noble birth will be only a footnote to my strength. Askr presents the perfect opportunity for me to become the strongest fighter in all Magvel. I dare say I feel as if I have been summoned here for that very reason.
Lyon	Be mindful to whom you say such things, Ephraim. These words could invite misunderstanding...
Gerik	Strongest fighter in Magvel, you say? And as a mercenary, no less? I had no idea you were so ambitious. Sorry. Couldn't help but overhear.
Lyon	Commander Gerik! Might I suggest you keep what you have heard in the strictest confidence?
Ephraim	Why should he have to do that? I've no intentions of secrecy.
Lyon	It will not sit well with Eirika.
Ephraim	Hmm...
Gerik	If you're interested in the mercenary life, Prince Ephraim, just say the word. My crew will gladly have you.
Ephraim	Gerik's Mercenaries are operating here in Askr?
Gerik	That's right. In fact, we're setting out from the castle for a reconnaissance mission tomorrow. We're looking to see what Askr's up against. With Commander Anna's approval, of course.
Lyon	Mercenaries live or die by the quality of their information. Wise of you to make that a priority.
Gerik	I'll take that as a compliment. So, how about it, Prince? Want to come along?
Ephraim	Absolutely. However, I insist that you think of me as one of your own. I want no special treatment on account of my title.
Lyon	Ephraim! Surely a weighty decision of this kind warrants a little caution!
Gerik	Done deal. And look at that—seems your new crewmates have arrived. Listen up, everyone! This is Ephraim. He'll be joining us tomorrow on a trial basis.
Ewan	Hey, he's got the same name as the Prince of Renais! Kind of looks a bit like him too.
Tethys	What an interesting development! I'm Tethys. Welcome to the crew.
Marisa	Hello.
Ephraim	Good to meet you. I intend to give this my all, but don't hesitate to put me in my place if I deserve it.
Lyon	I'm sorry, friend, but I can't let you do this alone. I'm coming with you.
Ephraim	Are you sure?
Lyon	Someone has to help you figure out how to explain this to Eirika.
Gerik	Welcome aboard, then, both of you. And with introductions out of the way... Let's prepare to move out.
Ephraim	Now to see just how far I can get in this world with lance alone...

Japanese

Nameplate	Text
Background image: 002_PlainForestInside
エフラム	リオン、俺は思うんだ。 俺たちは、 この世界に平和をもたらすために アスク王国に召喚された。 しかし同時に…自分の新しい可能性を 試すために、この世界に 呼ばれたのではないか…ともな。
リオン	珍しいね、エフラムがそんな哲学的… いや、自分の考えを口に出して 聞かせてくれるなんて。
エフラム	だから俺は、アスク王国一の 傭兵になろうと思う。
リオン	うん…いつものエフラムだね。 自分の可能性を試したい… そういう理由で話してるんだろうけど その結論に至るまで いろいろなものを 飛ばしてしまっていない？
エフラム	…俺はもともと、ルネス王国の 王子としての肩書きとは関係なく 槍一本で人生を切り拓きたい… マギ・ヴァル大陸一の傭兵に なりたいと、そう思っていたんだ。 もしかすると、この世界で 俺の願いは叶うかもしれない。 いやむしろ、俺はそのために アスク王国に呼ばれたのでは…？
リオン	お、落ち着いてエフラム。 いきなりそんなことを言い出したら まわりのみんなも困ってしまうよ。
ジスト	へぇー、大陸一の傭兵ね。 エフラム王子には そんな野望があったのか。 …おっと、すまないな。 立ち聞きするつもりはなかったんだが。
リオン	ジスト団長…！ その、先ほどの話は内密に…
エフラム	なぜ内密にする必要がある。 俺は誰にもはばかることなく 自分の夢を語りたい。
リオン	…エイリークが怒るよ。
エフラム	…………
ジスト	エフラム王子… 傭兵に興味があるのなら ウチに来ないか？
エフラム	ジスト傭兵団に？
ジスト	実はな、俺たちは明日から 遊撃部隊として城を離れるんだ。 アスク王国を取り巻く状況を 自分たちの目で確認しておきたくてな。 アンナ隊長にも許可をもらっている。
リオン	なるほど。傭兵にとって情報は命… アスク王国においても 独自の情報網を作るつもりですね。
ジスト	無論、なにかあったら すぐに城に戻るという約束でな。 どうだ、エフラム王子。 俺たちにつきあわないか？
エフラム	是非頼みたい。 ルネス王国の王子ではなく 一人の傭兵として… 俺も同行させてくれ。
リオン	エ、エフラム！ そんな簡単に…！
ジスト	よし、なら決まりだな…！ おっと、団員たちも来たようだ。 みんな、紹介するぞ。 今日からジスト傭兵団に お試し加入したエフラムだ。
ユアン	エフラム？　ふーん… ルネス王国の王子様と同じ名前だね。 あれ、なんだか顔も似てるような…？
テティス	私はテティス。よろしくね。 ふぅん、今回の旅は面白くなりそう。
マリカ	…よろしく。
エフラム	足手まといだと思ったら いつでも解雇してもらっていい。 覚悟を持ってついていく所存だ。
リオン	…君だけじゃ心配だよ。 僕もついていこう。
エフラム	いいのか？
リオン	あとでエイリークに謝るための 言い訳も探さなくちゃいけないしね。
ジスト	ま、仲良くやろうぜ。 それじゃ準備ができ次第出発だ。
エフラム	試してみるか… 俺の槍がどこまで通用するかを。

Mercenary Matters - C

English

Nameplate	Text
Background image: 002_PlainForestInside
Gerik	All right, everyone, ease up. After a thrashing like that, they won't be back anytime soon.
Tethys	Phew! Even mere bandits can be a fearsome challenge in these numbers. Excellent work, all!
Ewan	Are you hurt at all, Prince Ephraim?
Ephraim	Doing just fine, thank you. And please, it's just Ephraim. I'm a mercenary, right now. Not a prince.
Ewan	You got it. You should have just told us you were a prince of Renais in the first place, though.
Tethys	You're not the only one who noticed, Ewan. It was obvious to most of us. He wasn't exactly hiding it.
Ewan	Yeah, but it's not every day a prince decides to fight as a mercenary, is my point.
Gerik	True. You're young, Ephraim, but your strength and skill with a lance are very impressive. Most nobles are more worried about their looks than their effectiveness, but you fight like you mean it.
Marisa	Of the lancers I've seen, you may be in the top five.
Ephraim	Glad to hear I'm not holding you back, at least.
Gerik	You were a great help, too, Lyon. Your ability to see the enemy's strategy at a glance was invaluable. It's a shame you're bound for the throne. You'd make a fine tactician.
Lyon	Thank you, Commander Gerik. Now, these bandits... Their intention was to take advantage of harvest season?
Gerik	Seems like that's the idea. Let the farmers do the work, then swoop in and take the yield. This is why isolated farm villages love to hire mercenaries this time of year.
Tethys	That's true. Jobs like this keep us busy more reliably than fighting for any flag.
Ephraim	Good to know...

Japanese

Nameplate	Text

Mercenary Matters - B

English

Nameplate	Text
Tethys	This was quite the workout. Good work, everyone.
Ewan	Hah! Did you see me out there, Sis?
Tethys	I certainly did. Your magic is becoming fearsome, Ewan.
Ephraim	...
Marisa	What is it, Ephraim?
Ephraim	I'm wondering why no country's soldiers came to these people's aid.
Tethys	Ah... It's probably because this village has been politically abandoned.
Lyon	What do you mean?
Tethys	This is just tavern talk, but... The land here used to be fertile, providing many bountiful harvests. But since it stands on the border of two countries, it was constantly fought over.
Ephraim	Go on...
Tethys	Embla eventually claimed it, but... The fighting left the land barren. Without crops, the village lost its perceived value.
Ewan	I can relate to this place.
Lyon	When a kingdom claims a territory, they assume responsibility to defend it in exchange for taxes. If the territory provides no resources, the ruling kingdom stands only to lose by protecting it...
Tethys	And other kingdoms are powerless to help. If Askr were to intervene, it would start another war. As horrific as it may be, a monarch has to look at the bigger picture.
Gerik	This is why mercenaries shouldn't thoughtlessly sell their services to the highest bidder. When no one else will step in to help these people, it becomes our job. We're their swords and shields.
Ephraim	Their swords and shields...
Gerik	The people here deserve a chance at life, like anyone else. Even if no one else will give it to them... We can.
Ewan	This is why you're the chief, Chief! You'd never stand by and ignore someone in need. That's why I'm proud to follow you.
Marisa	Well said.
Tethys	While I understand that we need money to get by... I appreciate that being a part of Gerik's Mercenaries means fighting for more than just that.
Ephraim	There is so much more to mercenary life than I first thought. Faith... Resolve... Compassion...

Japanese

Nameplate	Text

Mercenary Matters - A

English

Nameplate	Text
Lyon	Another successful job, and no losses to report. We should arrive at the castle shortly, Ephraim. Those villagers were grateful for our help. It was a heartwarming sight.
Ephraim	Lyon... I'm not sure I'm ready to call myself a full-fledged mercenary yet.
Lyon	No? Why is that?
Ephraim	The mercenart life is about so much more than skill with a lance... I don't feel I've developed the quality of character necessary to do the profession justice yet.
Lyon	I don't understand. Your strength is practically without equal. Employers would no doubt be falling over themselves for the privilege to hire you.
Ephraim	Thoughtlessly selling my services to the highest bidder is not the path to the future I want. To become the greatest mercenary on the continent, I will need to be a sword and shield for the people. Someone who protects those who cannot protect themselves. It's not enough to train my body. I must train my heart, as well.
Lyon	You may be onto something...
Gerik	Ephraim. Lyon—thanks for the assist back there. If every mercenary were as quick and efficient as you two, we'd all have a lot more time off.
Lyon	We were happy to help.
Gerik	Happy to get paid, too, I expect. Here—catch.
Lyon	Ah! To be honest, I'd forgotten all about the coin.
Gerik	Not the most lucrative job in the world, this one, but that's your cut. You earned it.
Ephraim	The value is more sentimental to me than practical. I'll treasure this as my first ever mercenary pay. Thank you.
Lyon	This job has taught me lessons more valuable than gold. It's got me thinking about the issues a king must face, trying to protect the people and minimize bloodshed. The issue is more complex than any book portrays it, and there are no easy answers. When I am a statesman, grappling with difficult decisions, I will call upon the experiences I had here.
Ephraim	Commander Gerik, if I may... What moved you to invite me to join your company in the first place? There must be more to it than merely hiring another lance.
Gerik	Truth is, you remind me of a friend. Wanting to be the greatest mercenary the world has ever seen... That was the kind of thing he used to say.
Lyon	Interesting. What sorts of things does this friend of yours say now?
Gerik	None. He's dead. Taken from this world before he could live his dream. I guess when I saw that same spark in you, I couldn't let it lie.
Ephraim	...
Gerik	Anyway... If you're ever looking to join a company for real, just know you're always welcome.
Ewan	Did I hear that right? Is Ephraim gonna sign on with us full time?!
Tethys	I, for one, would welcome that. My rhythm and his lance make a powerful combination.
Marisa	I could use a sparring partner.
Ephraim	Thank you all. When I feel ready to be a sword and shield for the people, we will meet again. Until that day comes, I'll continue to train my heart and body.
Gerik	Looking forward to it, Ephraim!

Japanese

Nameplate	Text

Ewan: Eager Student

Ewan: Eager Student - C

English

Nameplate	Text
Sharena	Hey, Ewan! How are you? Settling in well to life in Askr, I hope?
Ewan	Hi, Princess Sharena! It's going pretty well, I'd say. The Order of Heroes is making me feel right at home. There are some differences to get used to, of course, but that's part of the fun.
Sharena	Good to hear. If you have any questions or concerns, you know where to find me.
Ewan	I do! In the meantime, I'll wander the halls of this amazing castle and see which great Heroes I run into. The magical power here is so strong you can feel it crackling in the air! Reminds me of my mentor, Saleh.
Sharena	Right! That would be all thanks to our ability to summon Heroes! Er... [Summoner]'s ability! And now you're one of those Heroes! We're expecting great things, Ewan. But no pressure!
Ewan	Ha! Putting it like that just lights a fire under me, you know. Say, one thing I did notice... A lot of Heroes here are related to each other by blood, aren't they?
Sharena	True. We have groups of siblings among our ranks, as you know, but parents and children as well.
Ewan	Going into battle with your parents at your back... That must be... Must be great...

Japanese

Nameplate	Text
ユアン

Ewan: Eager Student - B

English

Nameplate	Text
Sharena	Hello, Ewan. Do you have a minute?
Ewan	Sure, but if this is about a job, you should probably talk to Gerik.
Sharena	No, nothing like that. I've been thinking about something you said when we last spoke. More the way you said it, actually. When you talked about having your parents at your back in a fight...
Ewan	I guess I sounded lonely, didn't I? Truth is, my parents abandoned me when I was young. It was so long ago now, I can't remember their faces. I don't remember much about my life with me in it, either.
Sharena	Ewan, I'm so sorry.
Ewan	It's OK. Even after all they put me through, I don't hate them. I've always had my big sis to look after me. She basically took over as my mom. It's thanks to what happened to us then that our bond is so strong today.
Sharena	That's wonderful. I admire your positive outlook in the face of all that hardship.
Ewan	Don't get me wrong, I'll still be jealous to see a father and son fighting side by side. A sight like that will make me wonder what could have been. At least until I think of Gerik's Mercenaries. They're my real family.
Sharena	I see...

Japanese

Nameplate	Text
ユアン

Ewan: Eager Student - A

English

Nameplate	Text
Sharena	There you are, Ewan!
Ewan	Yup, just finishing my training for the day. What's got you in such a good mood?
Sharena	You said that Gerik's Mercenaries are like family to you, right?
Ewan	Yeah. What about it?
Sharena	I was hoping you might come to feel the same about the Order of Heroes!
Ewan	Sounds like my family's about to get a whole lot bigger, then...
Sharena	Since you said your sister Tethys took over for your mother... I wonder how you'd feel about having a big brother step in as your father. What do you think? Take your pick!
Bartre	Hello, young man! The name's Bartre, but call me Dad! Don't be shy—it's manly to share your feelings! Hiyah!
Dorcas	I've lived that mercenary life, kid. Been there, seen it all. There's a lot we can talk about, you and me.
Arthur	Stand aside, gentleman, for I shall be the one to introduce this dear young man to the warmth of a loving father! Come to me, dear Ewan! Step into the embrace of a man who swears to think of you as his very own son!
Sharena	As you can see, we have some very enthusiastic candidates.
Ewan	Er, yeah, I can see that. This is all... kind of sudden... I appreciate the concern, everyone. It's flattering. But really, I'm OK.
Bartre	If you say so, boy, I'll take your word. But you don't have to put on a tough face for anyone. Real men cry too.
Dorcas	If you ever want to talk, we'll be here.
Arthur	Whether as your father or as a role model, rest assured that you may always rely on me to be your hero!
Ewan	Thanks, everyone! This really... It really means a lot to me...

Japanese

Nameplate	Text
ユアン

Ewan: Eager Student - S

English

Nameplate	Text
Ewan	Hey, Princess Sharena. Thanks again for what you did the other day.
Sharena	Ewan! Your timing is perfect. I'm nearly finished vetting the second round of candidates.
Ewan	Um, that won't be necessary!
Sharena	No? Are you sure? Since all my last picks were muscleheads, I'd hoped to show you some more refined men.
Ewan	I'm sure, I'me sure! I know you mean well, but... Really, you don't have to do this. Trust me. I've been thinking a lot about what drove me to become a Mage. At first, I did it to repay my sis for all she went through to raise me. Now, though, I have a whole family to think about. And that family keeps getting bigger.
Sharena	Ewan...
Ewan	I'm going to do whatever it takes to support my family. That's what motivates me every day.
Sharena	You're absolutely right. Family is not decided by blood. It is decided by the people you care about most. Your new family will always be there for you, Ewan. I promise you that.
Ewan	Thank you, Princess Sharena... That means the world to me.
Sharena	Of course!
Ewan	Look at us, Tethys! Can you believe how far we've come? Such a great big group of friends... A family to call our own... Chief, Marisa, the Order of Heroes, all of them... Who knew the world could be so full of kindness? Thank you for bringing me this far, sis. Now it's time to do my part. I'm going to become a great Hero and protect this family of ours!

Japanese

Nameplate	Text
ユアン

Tethys: Beloved Dancer

Tethys: Beloved Dancer - C

English

Nameplate	Text
Tethys	One, two, three... Two, two, three... Palms, two, three... Up, two, three! Phew! Yes, that's much smoother than before. Arms were far too busy. ... You there—behind that tree. Why not come closer, and watch in the open?
Fjorm	Ah! Pardon me! I'm very sorry. It was not my intention to interrupt.
Tethys	You're Princess Fjorm, aren't you? To what do I owe the pleasure? Is it a message from Commander Anna?
Fjorm	Oh, no—nothing like that. I just... Well, um...
Tethys	What is it?
Fjorm	Please forgive the intrusion! I will see myself out!
Tethys	Princess?! I—nope, gone already. What could she have wanted? Maybe just looking for some womanly advice. I guess she's at that age. Ah, well. I'll get to the bottom of it next time...

Japanese

Nameplate	Text
テティス

Tethys: Beloved Dancer - B

English

Nameplate	Text
Fjorm	Tethys? Might I speak with you for a moment?
Tethys	Of course, Princess Fjorm. I've just finished with my rehearsals for the day. But you already knew that, didn't you?
Fjorm	My deepest apologies for intruding on you previously.
Tethys	I took no offense. But you looked as if you had something to say to me then, just as you do now.
Fjorm	About that... I wished to say only that I found your performance utterly captivating.
Tethys	For a dancer, there can be no higher praise. And from royalty, no less! I am beyond flattered.
Fjorm	To capture such dynamic energy in your steps, without losing elegance or fluidity in your movements... Your craft has clearly been refined through both natural talent and persistent effort.
Tethys	Well, I suppose that's half right.
Fjorm	I see... And what of the other half?
Tethys	While true that I spent much of my younger days working hard, ending days sore and covered in blisters... I must confess I have no innate talent for dancing at all—as much as I love it.
Fjorm	Given your popularity as a performer, I find that difficult to believe!
Tethys	Whatever brought me to this career, I can assure you it had nothing to do with a desire to be popular. The truth is, I had a far stronger and more urgent motivation that that: the survival of my brother and me.
Fjorm	Ah...

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Tethys: Beloved Dancer - A

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Tethys	My brother, Ewan, and I were abandoned by our parents when we were young.
Fjorm	...
Tethys	I hated them for it, at least at first. But I quickly realized that hatred alone would not feed us. As I wandered the streets, desperate to find a way for my brother and me to live on our own... I came upon a dancer performing on a corner. I had never danced before, but in that moment... I knew what I had to do.
Fjorm	So that was how you began...
Tethys	My first years of dancing were pure misery. I wasn't a coordinated child. I didn't even have real shoes. I danced in rags until my feet bled. I fell so many times I was covered in cuts and bruises. I worried constantly that I would not be good enough. That Ewan and I would starve. That fear was my first and cruelest dance partner.
Fjorm	But you never let it steal the show. You never gave up.
Tethys	Certainly not. My partner danced me half into my grave, and the dance was the only way to get back out again. I didn't do it for me. I did it for Ewan. To fill his plate. To see him smile.
Fjorm	I finally understand why your dance captivates me so. Its power comes straight from your heart, from your need, rather than from blindly following tradition. Your fear, your hope... When you dance, it's as if they are laid bare before me...

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Tethys: Beloved Dancer - S

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Fjorm	Tethys... I wonder if I might ask you a favor.
Tethys	What do you have in mind? I'm happy to help however I can.
Fjorm	I'm glad to hear that, because you are the only person capable of fulfilling my request. When this war is over, if you are willing... I would like you to teach me to dance.
Tethys	Me? Teach you? My style of dance is meant for inns and taverns, Princess. I'm afraid it's not well suited to royalty. Surely there is an instructor out there who would be better able to prepare you for the ballroom.
Fjorm	No, Tethys. I'm certain that I want my instructor to be you. Your form of dance is the only one I care to learn.
Tethys	...
Fjorm	You stared your death in the face... You danced with fear itself, and came out smiling. I know this may seem selfish of me. My life has been privileged compared to yours... But I do understand all too well how it feels to want your family to be happy more than anything.
Tethys	If that's truly your motivation, how can I refuse? I'll do it. When peace comes to this world, and my dance is no longer needed on the field of battle... You and I will dance together, to bring smiles to the faces of the people we love.
Fjorm	Ah! Thank you! I look forward to that day with all my heart!

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Gerik: Desert Tiger

Gerik: Desert Tiger - C

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Gerik	So, Gerik's Mercenaries get to form up a world away from home. Sounds almost too good to be true.
Ewan	Wouldn't have it any other way! This world will take some getting used to, but if we stick together, we'll be fine.
Tethys	You've been in Askr longer than any of the rest of us, haven't you, Marisa?
Marisa	I know my way around, yes.
Gerik	Good to know. Information's what we need right now, so anything you can tell us would be useful.
Marisa	Understood, Chief. Within this castle, you'll find many Heroes summoned to Askr from different worlds. Of those, many are mercenaries.
Gerik	Competition, huh? Well, at least it's something we'll have in common.
Tethys	We mercenaries have a certain air about us, don't we? Yes, I think I can actually smell it!
Ewan	Pretty sure that's your perfume, sis.
Gerik	Aromas aside, we should get to know our new colleagues. Physical ability, quality of character... We'll want to get a sense of them with our own eyes.
Marisa	In that case, Commander Anna would be the one to speak to. You should ask her to show you around.
Gerik	And I suppose she expects to be compensated for her time. Think this much'll be enough to entice her?
Marisa	Probably. Hopefully.
Gerik	Good enough. I'll start putting out feelers. The rest of you... Be ready to deploy.
Tethys	Try not to get into any fights on your first day, OK, Chief?
Gerik	Relax. I've got this.

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Gerik: Desert Tiger - B

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Anna	Yup! The Order of Heroes does employ quite a few mercenaries. In fact, I think they're outnumbered only by the nobles. This here's a pretty popular spot for training, so we might even...yep! There's one now!
Ogma	Hello, Commander Anna. Is there something you need?
Anna	Just an introduction. Ogma, I'd like you to meet Gerik, the commander of Gerik's Mercenaries.
Gerik	That's me. Seems we'll be working with Askr for the foreseeable future. Hope that's all right by you.
Ogma	I'd heard that some new Heroes had recently arrived. Honor to meet you.
Gerik	Likewise. You must be strong. Not many gladiators make it out of the fighting pits to become mercenaries.
Ogma	Who told you I was a gladiator?
Gerik	The scars did. They're not the kind you see on anyone who fights with even modest equipment. Scars like that only come from being forced to fight for your life, tooth and nail, like a caged animal. The wounds weren't even properly dressed. You have my sympathy.
Ogma	Very perceptive, Gerik. I am beginning to see how you earned the name Desert Tiger. But you have your share of scars. The one on your face, for instance... How did you come by it?
Gerik	This beauty? A reminder of my young and stupid days. I was arrogant enough to believe no one could best me. I was wrong. The knight who inflicted this lovely scar crushed me effortlessly. Then he spared my life.
Ogma	...
Gerik	Every time I look in the mirror, I'm reminded that I owe my success as a mercenary to that knight. Now I've got my own command, and I'll never fail them by letting my pride get the better of me.
Ogma	The words of a trustworthy man. It seems Askr has found itself another valuable ally, Commander Anna.
Anna	Agreed! Anyone who thinks so much of those who follow him is bound to be a good leader. You should give battlefield command a try sometime, Gerik.
Gerik	Let's not get ahead of ourselves. Maybe we should just move along with the tour...

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Gerik: Desert Tiger - A

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Anna	So, who should we meet next? Oh, I know! The Greil Mercenaries! Their group is one of the strongest we have.
Gerik	I've heard their leader's quite young. Ike, isn't it? He must be something else be in command at his age.
Titania	Ah, Commander Anna, did I hear you require our assistance? The Greil Mercenaries are at your disposal.
Anna	Perfect timing, Titania! We were just about to pay you and yours a visit.
Titania	Who is this you've brought with you, if I may?
Gerik	The name's Gerik. I'm the leader of my own mercenary company. Heard there were lots of us here in Askr, so I thought I'd take some time to do a little networking.
Titania	I see. As Commander Anna said, my name is Titania. I'm the Greil Mercenaries' deputy commander. Right this way.
Gerik	That about sums it up. This world is foreign to us, so any common ground we can find is a plus right now.
Ike	Good. ...
Gerik	...
Ike	...
Titania	Ah... Commander Ike is a man of few words. Please don't misunderstand.
Gerik	It's appreciated, actually. I like when people let their actions do the talking.
Soren	Gerik, was it? Let's be certain we understand each other. We may share common cause right now... But that's mostly coincidence. If our employers were to become enemies, then by necessity so would we.
Gerik	...
Soren	Should that occur, be aware that any information you give us will be used against you on the battlefield. I am sure you will not hesitate to do the same with whatever you happen to learn during your time here.
Titania	Come now, Soren. We're all professionals here.
Gerik	It's fine. He's not wrong.
Ike	Commander Gerik... Would you be willing to tell us about how you became a mercenary?
Gerik	I can do that. Now, where do I start...

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Gerik: Desert Tiger - S

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Gerik	My reason for becoming a mercenary is pretty stupid. I didn't particularly like fighting. Wasn't in it for the fame. When I was kid, a friend from my village got it in his head to be the greatest warrior in all the land. It lit a fire under me. I just couldn't let my friend go off and get killed.
Ike	Your friend still a mercenary now?
Gerik	He went off and got killed. Considering I joined up purely to protect him... There was no reason for me to continue on after that.
Soren	Yet you clearly did.
Gerik	I failed to protect him, and he got killed. If you're in this business long enough, that's bound to happen. But I made other friends along the way, and the thing about me is I can't stand to let friends die. So here I am, after all these years, refusing to abandon them.
Ike	Loyalty's what drives you, then. I respect that.
Gerik	As a sword for hire, I know my clients could ask me to do anything. But I also know that the choice to accept or reject a contract is mine. If a job demands I prey on the weak, or sacrifice my friends, I walk away. That's how I run my crew.
Ike	...
Gerik	...
Ike	... Doesn't look like your concerns are founded, Soren. I don't think we'll ever have to face this guy in battle.
Titania	It seems unlikely, given we share the same values.
Soren	I began to suspect about halfway through this story that it would sway you. I am Commander Ike's subordinate, so I will defer to his judgment. Commander Gerik, please overlook my cynical view of the relationship between our companies.
Gerik	No harm done. The Greil Mercenaries likely owe their strength in part to shrewd insights like yours.
Anna	Glad that's settled! Two mercenary groups at each other's throats would have been a messy inconvenience.
Ike	Looking forward to working with you, Commander Gerik. Let's keep our employer safe and happy.
Gerik	Same. Let's get the job done with minimal losses.

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Ephraim: Dynastic Duo

Ephraim: Dynastic Duo - C

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Lyon	It occurs to me, Ephraim, that your difficulty retaining what we study is not the fault of your intellect. Rather, I think it is because books fail to engage your interests. Is that not so?
Ephraim	You're probably right. But what's to be done about it?
Alfonse	Greetings, Prince Ephraim and Lyon. What brings you to the library today?
Lyon	Ah, Prince Alfonse. We were reading up on the history of your realm, as a matter of fact.
Ephraim	One of us was, at any rate.
Lyon	It is only a matter of effort, and of keeping the right mindset, Ephraim.
Alfonse	I adore books, but I do relate to the struggle of rote learning. Desks and lectures sometimes try my patience. All the same, I understand that I must one day lead my people. It would be irresponsible not to prepare.
Lyon	Listen well, Ephraim. These are the words of a man suited to govern. We should learn from his example.
Ephraim	Indeed. Prince Alfonse, might I ask a favor of you? It would be helpful to me to learn the history of Askr from someone with direct personal experience of it.
Lyon	Let's be mindful not to take up too much of the man's time...
Alfonse	If learning my country's history is your aim, I would be happy to teach you what I know.
Ephraim	Excellent. I find I retain a great deal more from personal stories than from dry historical records.
Alfonse	I understand completely. I'll begin then with my country's founder, Líf, and the Divine Dragon Askr...

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Ephraim: Dynastic Duo - B

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Ephraim	Good. Now, remember to let the weight of the lance work for you as you lunge!
Lyon	Right. Hiya—aaah! Argh... No, that's no good. I feel as if the blasted thing is controlling me, not the other way around. Face it, Ephraim. I am simply not well suited to fighting on the front lines. You and I are just not cut from the same cloth. I will never wield a lance with anything like your skill.
Ephraim	What was it you said about effort and the right mindset?
Lyon	If reading required me to train my eye muscles to lift the weight of a man, I would have held my tongue. Compared to you and Eirika, I have always been the fragile one. But even if I did possess a great physical strength, I would be loath to use it. I despise conflict.
Ephraim	You're too gentle for your own good. I can't always be there to protect you. Battle is chaotic. Sooner or later, circumstances will pull us apart. When that time comes, I want you to be able to defend yourself.
Alfonse	Prince Ephraim, Prince Lyon. Lance training today, is it?
Lyon	Yes, Prince Alfonse. As you can see, Ephraim is getting his revenge.
Ephraim	You've got the better end of the deal. A lance is heavier than a book, but at least you won't fall asleep wielding it.
Alfonse	Hah! That is you in a nutshell, isn't it?
Ephraim	While we're on the subject of lances, Prince Alfonse... I hear your sister is quite formidable in the art. Do you think Princess Sharena would consent to teaching Lyon here a thing or two?
Lyon	No, no—please don't drag the princess into this, Ephraim!
Alfonse	I think she would be delighted. I will ask her, next I see her.
Lyon	Wonderful...

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Ephraim: Dynastic Duo - A

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Alfonse	You two have quite a rare friendship. It's not every day you see two people who so deeply believe in and support one another.
Ephraim	We each visit the other's country often, to get a sense of life there. I think if we could combine the best of Renais and Grado, we could form something truly special.
Lyon	Agreed. A mutually beneficial relationship between Renais and Grado is the key to prosperity for both. Not everyone necessarily sees it that way, however. Trust is an issue. The scars of the past have a way of hindering future alliances.
Alfonse	That is a hard truth.
Lyon	It is all the more reason I am grateful for my friendship with Ephraim.
Ephraim	Lyon... As long as you and I remain friends, we will continue to work for the well-being of both our countries. Consider that a promise.
Lyon	I share that sentiment, and am happy to take you at your word. For the moment, however, Askr's needs take priority. Prince Alfonse, consider us at your service.
Alfonse	I will. Thank you.

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Ephraim: Dynastic Duo - S

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Alfonse	...
Ephraim	Something troubling you, Alfonse?
Alfonse	Not exactly. I was just thinking of a dear friend I once had in the Order of Heroes. There was a time when I saw the two of us as totally inseparable, but... Differences of opinion ultimately drove us to walk separate paths.
Lyon	It sounds as if the natural course of life caused you to grow apart. Ephraim... It pains me to consider the possibility, but our relationship may someday follow a similar trajectory. Some person, event, or change we cannot foresee may drive a wedge between us.
Ephraim	Maybe so. But whatever the future holds, all we can hope to do is focus on the here and now.
Lyon	This is a fair point. No other way to see it, really. No matter what happens, I hope you know that as your friend I will respect the choices you make.
Ephraim	I will hold you to it—and do the same.
Lyon	Prince Alfonse... This friend of yours, if he is anything like either of us, does not begrudge you for your choices. You may have your differences now, but that does not devalue the time you spent together as friends. The bond you describe is not the sort that fades easily with time.
Alfonse	Thank you. I sincerely hope that is the case. For now, I will bide my time, think of how I might help him...and trust he will one day return to me as a friend.

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Story
Previous: Book III: Chapter 13-5: Ruler of the Dead ←		Next: Cormag: Aloof Lanceman →

In other languages

Language	Name
Japanese	傭兵たちの背中
German	Unter Söldnern
Spanish (Europe)	La vida mercenaria
Spanish (Latin America)	La vida mercenaria
French	Vie de mercenaire
Italian	Vita da mercenario
Traditional Chinese (Taiwan)	傭兵們的背影
Portuguese	Vida mercenária