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Post by Neo on Apr 13, 2016 14:27:46 GMT -6
Prologue: Of Dreams and Revelations
The Shadow raced through the rafters of the great temple, barely more than a blur of darkness against the unlit ceiling. Ominous chanting rose and fell all around her, echoing throughout the empty halls of the temple, easily reaching the high ceiling above. Rows and rows of benches along every aisle were filled to the brim with hooded figures praying to their silent god, their voices rising to a crescendo. The Shadow ignored them, as her target was the hulking figure kneeling at the main altar- Emperor Darius, a giant of a man, crowned from head to toe in glistening crimson armor. In one hand, he held the mighty blade Gurgurant, and in the other, a beautiful golden crown with a single brilliant jewel set into the middle- the fully realized Fire Emblem, radiating a golden glow unlike anything else in the world.
Knowing the crown's divine radiance would banish any chance she had of remaining concealed, like the Sun banishing the murky darkness of morning, the Shadow leapt from her hiding place in the rafters, nocking a single arrow mid-leap and, in a single fluid motion, let the arrow fly.
With impossible speed, the Emperor of Pharos bolted to his feet and swung around, bringing up his mighty sword like it weighed nothing and cleaving the arrow in two before it could reach him. Unfazed and unimpressed, the Emperor merely stared wordlessly at the would-be assassin, as she landed gracefully on the floor, rolling to her feet.
Without a word, she grinned slightly, and, surrounded by enemies, she fearlessly raised her bow and nocked another arrow.
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Every choice we make, every decision we make throughout our lives... Are they all predestined? Is everything we do meaningless? Are we merely puppets, swaying to an unseen wind, dancing to an unrecognizable tune?
"No. I refuse to believe that. If that were true, I wouldn't have made it this far. I made it this far only because of all the people who put their faith in me- faith in just a child. I refuse to let all the sacrifices we've made be meaningless."
Then prove to me, Knight of Lanchester, that your faith can overcome the bleak reality of this world.
Suddenly, you find yourself standing on a platform made entirely of stained glass, hovering above a void of total nothingness, an endless sea of black. Beneath your feet, a giant mural covers the platform, depicting a beautiful golden haired girl in a flowing white dress. Directly in front of you are three doors, each bearing a different emblem, and a tall standing mirror. Your legs move on their own accord, carrying you right up to the mirror.
Look into the mirror, my child. What do you see?
"I see..."
A: Maxwell Lionheart, Prince of Lanchester. A strong, golden haired youth with a dazzling smile and an accomplished horseman. While he is often called lazy, and likes napping more than studying,he has an eye for tactics that's second to none. Starting Class: Cavalier.
B: Shira Pharos, Princess of the Empire. A thoughtful leader prone to worrying too much, and a prodigy of the spear. For some reason, Wyverns really, really don't like her. Wants what's best for her people. Starting Class: Lancer.
C: Lucius Morningstar, young head of the disgraced Great House Morningstar of Elmine. A caring, but pragmatic young man and student of magic, music, and swordplay. Will do anything to restore his house to its former glory. Starting Class: Bard.
D: Reyna Sol, the youngest daughter of the legendary Phoenix General of Daram. A gifted mage, but often ditzy and prone to bouts of cluelessness. Has a horrible sense of direction. Starting Class: Thunder Mage.
Note: Each character has their own unique little perk. Maxwell has the Hawkeye ability, which lets him see hidden tiles on the battlefield. These tiles have varying effects. Shira gains weapon experience at double the rate and deals +5 damage when wielding a Javelin or other throwing lance. Lucius gains double experience for singing, and can take another action after he sings for a unit- including attack. Reyna has the ability to find items strewn across the battlefield at the start of every turn(The chance to Proc and type of item depend on her Rating).
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Post by Deleted on Apr 13, 2016 15:05:31 GMT -6
Hmm B or D.......
I vote D because Thunder Mage and horrible sense of direction remindes me of Linkle.
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Post by grayjack on Apr 13, 2016 15:09:54 GMT -6
C. I wanna be a Bard.
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Post by GX1997 on Apr 13, 2016 15:56:11 GMT -6
Gotta support a potential MC who can fight and is cultured enough to use music on the battlefield. Bards are awesome. C.
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Post by The Big Cheese on Apr 13, 2016 17:30:55 GMT -6
I'll vote B.
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Post by Neo on Apr 13, 2016 17:41:34 GMT -6
As you stare into the mirror, a sculpted, handsome face perfectly framed by shoulder length pale blond hair and dark, reddish brown eyes stare back at you. Your hair is smooth and straight, and pulled back in a small, single braid that's popular with nobles in the Elmine Theocracy. You wear a long, knee-length white coat with a high-neck collar, a burgundy button down dress shirt, and dark brown dress slacks tucked into surprisingly worn brown boots. At your waist, you wear what appears to be a noble's Rapier, and a dark brown pack large enough to fit a couple books, both attached to a black utility belt. You remember the belt is called a Sword Belt, and is usually worn by accomplished swordsmen, Fencers, and Mercenaries. You open the pack and find a magic tome- Elwind- and a Vulnerary inside. The symbol of a red rose is emblazoned on the left breast pocket of your coat, with the symbol of a black morningstar just below it- the crest of your noble house.
"I see... Myself. I am Lucius Morningstar, head of one of the four Great Houses of Elmine."
Is that all you see? No matter. The image will become clearer in time. Now, it is time for you to choose your emblem.
"My emblem?"
Yes, your emblem. Your emblem is the physical manifestation of who you are- your deepest feelings, your most private thoughts, your dearest goals. It will determine your path in life, as well as the people who are drawn to you. But be careful, my child. Once chosen, it cannot be undone. Now, choose a door and walk through it. Then your story will begin.
A: The middle door, bearing the emblem of the Lion. You are proud and noble, and your strength is your greatest asset. Effect: Strength growth is increased by 20%. Your first companion will be a Lioness, and you will walk the path of Lanchester.
B: The right door, bearing the emblem of the Dragon. You are fierce and stalwart, but solitary in nature. Tread carefully upon choosing this path my child, as it is fraught with danger. Defense and Resistance are your greatest assets. Effect: Defense and Resistance growths are increased by 10%. Your first companion will be a Dragoness, and you will walk the path of Pharos.
C: The left door, bearing the emblem of the Goddess. You are caring, devout, and strong, a true Paladin of justice. Your greatest wish is to right the wrongs you see around you. Your greatest asset is your magical talent. Effect: Magic growth is increased by 20%. Your first companion will be the heavenly maiden, and you will follow in the footsteps of Saint Elmine herself.
Important Note: This is a very important choice, and decides a whole heck of a lot more than just growths and what character you get first. There are two parts to this CYOA- the first is entirely dependent on your choices. Where you go, what the plot is, all that is decided here. The second part is the war, which intertwines and joins all paths together. The Lioness, Dragoness, and Maiden all refer to certain royals who will join you early on, instead of in the second part like they would otherwise. However, one of these characters will ONLY join as a playable unit AT ALL if you pick the relevant choice here. I've left plenty of hints in the Discussion topic, so you shouldn't have that much difficulty figuring out whom the "Lioness", "Dragoness", and "Maiden" titles refer to.
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Post by grayjack on Apr 13, 2016 17:47:28 GMT -6
B.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 13, 2016 18:56:35 GMT -6
Seriously a bard people la sigh >_>
Anyways I vote C
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Post by Neo on Apr 13, 2016 18:59:27 GMT -6
Seriously a bard people la sigh >_> Anyways I vote C What do you have against Bards? Stop being Bard-cist. |
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Post by Deleted on Apr 13, 2016 19:04:37 GMT -6
Seriously a bard people la sigh >_> Anyways I vote C What do you have against Bards? Stop being Bard-cist. I just dont like then as a unit. For me they really don't do much same thing with Dancers or Songstress or whatever singing unit. They got good support but they seem better as suport type characters amd less frontline characters. (Again this Bard can actually be incredibly useful and a powerhouse capable of soloing an entire army later on) Just as personal preference i just avoid Bards |
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Post by Neo on Apr 13, 2016 19:12:23 GMT -6
What do you have against Bards? Stop being Bard-cist. I just dont like then as a unit. For me they really don't do much same thing with Dancers or Songstress or whatever singing unit. They got good support but they seem better as suport type characters amd less frontline characters. (Again this Bard can actually be incredibly useful and a powerhouse capable of soloing an entire army later on) Just as personal preference i just avoid Bards Just FYI, this Bard can use both swords and tomes, in case you missed that. He's more like Azura than FE7 Bards. Out of all the potential MCs, Lucius has by far the most utility as a unit, at least at the start. |
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Post by Neo on Apr 13, 2016 20:01:13 GMT -6
Gimme moar votes! Since this is an important vote, I'll keep it open until tomorrow morning. I'll be happy no matter who wins, tbh. Though I am a bit torn on who I want to win the most...
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Post by Deleted on Apr 13, 2016 20:24:53 GMT -6
I just dont like then as a unit. For me they really don't do much same thing with Dancers or Songstress or whatever singing unit. They got good support but they seem better as suport type characters amd less frontline characters. (Again this Bard can actually be incredibly useful and a powerhouse capable of soloing an entire army later on) Just as personal preference i just avoid Bards Just FYI, this Bard can use both swords and tomes, in case you missed that. He's more like Azura than FE7 Bards. Out of all the potential MCs, Lucius has by far the most utility as a unit, at least at the start. Mehhhh we will see where this goes. Still very Tepig about the Bards in general |
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Post by The Big Cheese on Apr 14, 2016 0:33:47 GMT -6
...Tank Bard.
B.
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Post by Neo on Apr 14, 2016 7:02:55 GMT -6
Tank Bard wins. I'll go boot up the character database topic and update when I get the chance.
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Post by Neo on Apr 14, 2016 11:39:42 GMT -6
Instinctively, you're drawn towards the right door. Again, your legs carry you forward unbidden, but before you reach the door, the voice stops you. Are you sure? Once done, this cannot be undone. Your path will be full of trials and hardships."I'm sure. The easiest path is often the least rewarding. And I will not shy from danger."So be it. Then step forward, my young hero, and embrace the dawn of a new day.Without hesitation, you do as the voice commands and reach out to grasp the door. It swings wide at your touch, and a blazing white light pours forth, momentarily blinding you. You step into the light. It has been 1200 years since humans first settled the rich land of Bastion during the Great Exodus. Lead by the Divine Saint, Elmine, and her small band of heroes, humankind once again found a home after the Cataclysmic Flood buried most of the world under the sea. However this newfound home was not without its troubles. Viewed as invaders by the native race of the new land, humanity once again found themselves battling for their very survival, this time on the bitter battlefield of war. The War of the Races- as history later dubbed the conflict- raged for many years until, with the help of the Bard Taliesin, Saint Elmine successfully brokered a peace treaty; humanity would be allowed to settle in four nations on the Northern half of the continent, and the remaining land was to go to the Beast Tribes. The native tribes were also allowed to come and go in human lands, and so a mutual agreement was reached and the four great nations of Bastion were born. Saint Elmine and her husband founded the holy theocracy of Elmine- a name she was adamantly against- as a center of peace and prosperity, to worship the goddess who lead them to this bountiful land and protect the rights and safety of all so that both races could coexist in peace. The great hero Pharos, Elmine's stalwart companion and greatest champion, founded his Empire in the rocky region of northern Bastion, laying the foundation for what would eventually become the greatest nation in all of Bastion. Some sources claim he married the daughter of the Beast Tribe's chieftain- and that she was a dragon. While this is more in the realm of myth and legend than fact, it would explain how Pharos was able to tame the mighty Wyverns native to the region. The legendary Bard Taliesin, Elmine's faithful friend and mediator, proved ever the voice of reason and equality and founded a nation built around those sacred principles; the Republic of Daram. After helping to establish the first people's Senate, which later came to be known as the Council of Five, Taliesin left to wander and roam the vast land of Bastion, bringing music and smiles to everyone he came across. Some scholars believe he eventually made his way into the uncharted Wilds of the south and became the leader of another new country. However, as no successful expeditions into the Wilds have been recorded, this has remained unconfirmed. But even so, many young Bards desire to travel the Wilds in search of Taliesin's lost secrets. The last of the four great nations- but certainly not least- was founded by Saint Elmine's younger brother, the Steadfast Knight, Maxwell. It is said that such was Maxwell's ferocity in battle and unwavering commitment to justice, that he was given the title of Lionheart by the Beast Tribe Chieftain himself. Regardless of the true origins of the name, it is the surname all his descendants have used to this very day. This kingdom he built on the very principles he held so dear has stood tall and strong over the centuries, becoming a font of life and joy for all people, and the knights of this great kingdom became guardians of everything that Saint Elmine and her younger brother stood for. This kingdom was called Lanchester. Now, many centuries later, our story begins anew, this time in the bustling holy capital of Elmine, Grandia. Here, a young Bard is about to unknowingly set off a chain of events that will forever reshape the land of Bastion... |
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Post by Neo on Apr 14, 2016 14:20:36 GMT -6
Chapter 1: The Holy Capital "Young Master! Young Master, where are you?! It's almost time for your appointment with the Queen! YOOOOOOOOUNG MAAAAASTER!!!!" Lucius sighs and opens his eyes, squinting against the bright glare of the morning Sun. He raises his arm to shield his eyes as they adjust to the light, then turns to look down from his perch on the tree branch. Below the great tree, Garth Valastair, longtime servant of House Morningstar and Lucius's personal retainer, paced around the cobblestone courtyard. Like always, Garth failed to simply look up. "Always shirking your responsibilities..." Garth grumbled, not realizing Lucius was well within earshot. I've done more for this house than you will ever know, old friend."Lazy boy, doesn't even take his Fencing lessons seriously anymore..." Ha. If only you knew. I can run circles around my "teacher"."And now, he's going to be late for the most important meeting of his life..." Lucius scoffs and rises to his feet, easily balancing himself on the thick branch. He shoves his hands into the pockets of his coat and leans against the trunk of the tree, as a cool breeze ripples through the leaves. "Is that any way to talk about the head of your house, old man?" Garth's sharp eyes quickly snap upwards, and his wrinkled mouth twists into a stern frown. "WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?!" He bellows up at the tree. "I can hear you fine, old man." Lucius effortlessly drops down to a lower branch, and then another, until he could safely drop down to the ground, landing only a couple feet away from his surly retainer. "First of all, it's an informal lunch meeting, Garth. And it's not even ten yet." "But there are protocols one must obey-" "Informal, Garth. Key word here. Lady Dianna and I are friends. I'm simply meeting her to ask a favor from a friend. Nothing more, nothing less. Perhaps my... Social skills are a bit rusty, but last time I checked, there are no protocols in having lunch with a friend." Garth sputtered in disbelief. "My-my lord! This is the Queen you're speaking about! Even your relationship with her will not be enough to excuse such a breach in-" "Relax, old man. You're going to give yourself a heart attack. I'll handle it, stop worrying so much. In the meantime, I have a few errands to do beforehand. Give me a hand and go down to the Post Office and see if my package has come in, will you? I don't trust the Courier to be on time." Garth grumbled under his breath- something about a certain someone being a pain in the neck- but inclined his head. "I'll see to it, Milord. But I caution you against keeping the Queen waiting. Your friendship with the Queen is already controversial enough." "I hear you, old man." Satisfied, Garth takes one last moment to straighten his master's coat and brush off a few leaves, then locks the Manor house and heads out. Lucius lingers for a bit longer, looking around at the estate, as he always did every morning. Looking at it, you would never think this was the estate of a disgraced noble house...The old three story manor house was just as impressive as it had been the day it was constructed. Dark red wood, white cobblestone brick, and polished marble combined to create a beautiful piece of architecture. The colors, style, and design blended together the old and new, the traditional and the modern, in the Architect's hope that the manor would exist outside of time; last forever. In a way, the Architect's wish had come true. No matter who the current head of the family was, or the state of the family, the manor remained proud and strong, every bit the sight it was in its youth. The courtyard garden out front- where Lucius stood now- was alive and brimming with rows of rosebushes, and all manner of flowers. The great tree in the center stood unwavering through the seasons, its branches lovingly caressing the roof across from it; a reflection of the manor's fortitude. Out back, the estate stretched on for several acres of lush green bushes, garden mazes and sculptures, archery, riding, and fencing practice areas, their own private stables, even their own Theatre. It was a beautiful little piece of Elysium carved right out of the bustling metropolis that was the Holy Capital, Grandia. The sounds of the Noble's Quarter and the neighboring Merchant's Quarter never seemed to quite reach here. Another light breeze rustled through the garden, returning Lucius from his wistful thoughts. Well, I suppose I should get going... Only question is, where to first? I need to stop by Helga's shop to see if she's ordered my Levin Sword yet, and I need to check in with Old Man Ogrim and see how his granddaughter's doing... If her fever hasn't gone down yet, it's possible my diagnosis may have been wrong, in which case, I'll need to stop off for more medicine... Or even hire an actual Priest myself. That's definitely the more urgent priority, but it will also likely take some time, especially if I have to see about hiring a Priest. Checking in with Helga shouldn't take very long, and I might not have time afterwards. If all goes well with Lady Dianna, I may be setting out for the Wilds very soon... Hmm. It would help if they weren't both in the opposite directions.*Codex Entries unlocked: Queen Dianna, Lucius Morningstar, Garth Valastair, The Great House Morningstar* A: Swing by Helga's shop first. Your Rapier alone won't be much help out in the Wilds. B: Go check on Old Man Ogrim's granddaughter first. You'll have time to fetch your shiny new sword later. |
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Post by grayjack on Apr 14, 2016 16:12:43 GMT -6
B. We gotta help sickly (possible waifu?) girl.
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Post by GX1997 on Apr 14, 2016 18:22:27 GMT -6
B
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Post by Neo on Apr 15, 2016 15:32:08 GMT -6
I better visit old man Ogrim first and check on Erin. The sword can wait.
Stifling a yawn and stretching slightly, Lucius shoves his hands back into his pockets and heads out into the city proper, locking the front gate of the estate behind him- and immediately gets splashed with muddy water from a passing carriage. His face completely impassive, Lucius sighs and wipes his face on his sleeve, then wrings his robes out.
Great. Now I'm going to have to change. Oh the joys of living in the famous city of water.
The flurry of sudden church bells made his eyes wander upwards, scaling the vast silver towers and white marble structures that dotted the holy capital. Hmm... Morning mass is ending then. Bunch of arrogant fools. They wouldn't recognize the will of the Goddess even if She appeared in a blaze of glory and screamed it at them.
Lucius hailed the next carriage that passed by- making sure to stand well clear- and tossed the man a few gold coins. "Take me to the Lower Quarter."
The driver stared at the coins, then back at Lucius, and quickly nodded. "R-right away, milord. I'll be sure to get you there straight away. Gee up now, girl."
Poor sod. He's likely used to being underpaid by nobles, if at all. Good-for-nothing leeches.
Lucius stared absentmindedly out the window as the tall spires and grand palaces of the Noble Quarter went rolling by. The city of Grandia was both a fantastical marvel of beauty and a depressing sight at the same time. It was known as the City of Water, as it was situated on the edge of the Southern Sea, and surrounded by the River of Thanes which served as a natural moat for the city, giving it the appearance of a fairy tale castle-city. Winding all around the city were waterways of varying size and width, and Glass Boat rides were a popular tourist attraction. Granted, not as many tourists these days.
The waterways of Grandia were mainly used to ferry cargo to and from the port however; Foreign Trade was the only form of contact the Elmine Theocracy had with the other nations now, and since the Church still technically had a monopoly on most medicines, trade was always booming. It was why the nobles could afford to continue lining their own pockets. However, while the people in the Noble Quarter lived a life of continuous luxury, and the middle class and business owners in the Merchant Quarter got by by catering to the pompous Nobles, the less fortunate stuck in the Lower Quarter struggled merely to survive. Disease and sickness were widespread, and people barely had enough money for the most basic essentials. It was appalling.
The carriage hit a bump in the road, propelling Lucius headfirst into the cieling. He merely grunted and rubbed his head. Tsk... That will leave a mark. This really isn't my day today.
"O-Oh! Milord, I am so very sorry! I'll try to avoid the potholes-"
Lucius waved the man's concern away. "Easy, I'm not upset. You aren't to blame for the state of these roads. Just focus on driving."
The man nodded meekly and turned back around, and Lucius sighs. The Wilds will be a pleasant change of pace after living in this city for years...
They passed out of the Noble Quarter and into the Merchant Quarter, which was just as bustling as ever. Throngs of people lined the cobblestone sidewalks, each wearing a more colorful outfit than the last. In the bright Sun, the sight was enough to give anyone a headache. Rows and rows of carriages moved slowly along, their drivers having to reign their horses in every few feet so people could cross.
"I know a shortcut," Lucius piped up, motioning to a back alley just off to the left of the main roads, just wide enough for a carriage to fit. "Turn here and head straight. You'll reach a fork. Turn right and follow the alley. It will lead you straight down to the Lower Quarter."
"Y-Yes, Milord. At once."
Lucius leans back in his seat and turns to look out the window again. The Lower Quarter... How he despised that name. It declared to all that those living there were somehow less, somehow beneath everyone else because they didn't possess land, titles, or money. Because they couldn't 'contribute to society'. For a place called 'the Holy Capital' to care so much about material possessions... There was no greater insult to Saint Elmine's legacy.
Lucius's eyes suddenly snapped up towards the sky. Just now, there at the edge of the roof above... He could of sworn he saw someone. Just for a split second, he thought he saw a girl with blazing red hair... Who... Who was that? Did I just imagine it?
He shakes his head at himself. Great, I'm going senile before my twentieth birthday...
A couple minutes later, the Lower Quarter finally came into view; a ring of damaged wooden roofs and tarnished gray stone that sat in the bowels of the city, at the very lowest point, surrounded by sloped gray walls, as if the people living there were infectious and needed to be quarantined. The small street sloped downward, eventually leading to a small guard checkpoint manned by two Holy Knights- because we simply couldn't have the diseased wretches from Low Town sneaking into the Upper City. Someone might get infected!
Lucius's jaw twitched as the driver obediently stopped at the checkpoint- Lucius would have just driven on through. To hell with the bastards.
A young Knight- He couldn't have been older than sixteen for crying out loud!- walked around to the back and peered through the open window. Lucius put on his best haughty look.
"What business do you have in Lowtown, sir-"
"My business is my own," Lucius snapped coldly. "I will not repeat myself. Now let us through- or do you wish to be known as the knight who delayed a member of a Great House on errands, and caused him to be late to his appointment with the Queen?"
The boy's eyes widened to comically large proportions. "N-no, of course not Milord! Please, go on through."
Lucius waved the driver to continue, and settled back in his seat. Only a few minutes later, he was climbing out in front of Old Ogrim's house and thanking the driver for his service.
Well, let's see if anybody's home... Now that I think about it, Ogrim might be out in the market...
He walked up to the door and knocked.
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