0. The past two years have flown by in but the blink of [cdb]an eye.
1. And while they felt short, they were certainly [cdb]eventful.
2. The Empire has come far since we removed Arundel [cdb]from power.
3. We reformed the government, remedied our [cdb]diplomatic troubles, and bolstered our military.
4. And most significantly, we gave strength to the Southern Church, creating the perfect wedge against [cdb]the Church of Seiros.
5. A shame our bishop has become the target of [cdb]relentless censure as a result. Why, the Central Church even targeted him for assassination!
6. Poor Count Varley. It could not have happened to a [cdb]finer man.
7. And then there's the matter of Lord Arundel. What are he and his minions up to now?
8. Slithering in the shadows of Fódlan, much as they [cdb]have done for centuries.
9. It will not be easy to drag such adept skulkers into [cdb]the light.
10. Perhaps not. Then for now, let's remain focused on [cdb]the formidable adversary ahead.
11. Did you call us here, Edelgard? It's good to see so [cdb]many familiar faces.
12. Did you call us here, Edelgard? It's good to see so [cdb]many familiar faces.
13. I did—and thank you for coming.
14. This may be the first time I've seen all of you in the [cdb]same room since the Officers Academy closed.
15. Likely, yes. We have all been rather busy marching [cdb]down the separate paths life laid out for us.
16. Or most of us have, anyway. Others such as myself [cdb]managed to eschew work in favor of a more [cdb]leisurely existence.
17. H-hey, I was working hard. At staying in my room, [cdb]but still!
18. Father's been dreadfully busy, so he's never home. Which has been pretty nice, actually...
19. I was returning home to Brigid. I finished my task and [cdb]now I have been returned here.
20. Well enough. Now, as you know, the Empire will [cdb]launch its attack on Garreg Mach in the coming days.
21. Emperor Edelgard will lead the invasion personally, [cdb]and wishes for those present to form the backbone of [cdb]her army.
22. And as it has been some time since Adrestia had an [cdb]army under the direct command of the emperor, I fear we currently lack for officers.
23. I trust each of you, and can think of no candidates [cdb]better suited for the job. Will you do this for me?
24. So you've got other plans for my father's army, I take it?
25. Well then count me in. I'm ready to go whenever.
26. I would've been happy with a life serving you here [cdb]in the capital...
27. But if war is coming, I want to see it through myself.
28. I'll go wherever you go, Your Majesty!
29. Accept the offer enthusiastically.
30. Hesitate.
31. I'm always ready. Plus, it's good to know I haven't [cdb]been training this hard for nothing.
32. I'm always ready. Plus, it's good to know I haven't [cdb]been training this hard for nothing.
33. Are you sure you want me? I've kept up my training, [cdb]but this is an important battle.
34. Are you sure you want me? I've kept up my training, [cdb]but this is an important battle.
35. We are not such fools as to squander a powerful asset [cdb]such as yourself.
36. I've high hopes for you, and trust you will prove the [cdb]wisdom of my decision.
37. Just you wait. I'm gonna hurdle clean over those [cdb]high hopes and show you what I can really do!
38. Just you wait. I'm gonna hurdle clean over those [cdb]high hopes and show you what I can really do!
39. Right. I'll do my best.
40. Right. I'll do my best.
41. Be certain to save some of your hopes for me, [cdb]because I most assuredly have what it takes to [cdb]succeed! And with that...
42. New Empire Army! Move out!
43. Ferdinand? Kindly leave the commanding— [cdb]and naming—to me.