Ah, it feels good to update. Now if I can actually keep up with my other stories . . .

C

Robin: Thank you for your input at the strategy meeting today, Laurent. I would never have thought of those types of formations.

Laurent: Thank you, Father. Your praise is invaluable.

Robin: I think it's time we give your ideas a field test. I'll tell everyone to follow your lead in the next battle.

Laurent: Um, is that entirely necessary? Your skills are more than adequate enough.

Robin: Well, they are your ideas. It seems only fair for you to be the one to enact them.

Laurent: Forgive me, Father, but I'm afraid I must decline.

Robin: Why is that?

Laurent: I don't think I have the competence to lead the Shepherds as you can.

Robin: Didn't you strategize for Lucina and the others in the future?

Laurent: The two circumstances aren't exactly comparable.

Robin: I'd beg to differ. You helped pull your friend through in perhaps the worst circumstances a tactician could find themselves in. You're more than ready to help command the Shepherds.

Laurent: I humbly disagree. You haven't seen my failures. Ones that got many killed. Our mission is far too valuable for any rookie mistakes.

Robin: But, Laurent-

Laurent: No, Father. This is the best option. Now, if you'll please excuse me.

(Laurent leaves)

Robin: . . . . .

B

Robin: Laurent, I have an assignment for you.

Laurent: Oh? What do you require?

Robin: We've gotten reports of a bandit gang harassing a nearby village. Chrom asked me to pick a team to go take deal with them. I'm assigning you as tactician.

Laurent: Father, we've discussed this before. I lack the proficiency that you have.

Robin: And I think you have more potential than I could ever hope to have. I know you have your reservations, but I think this will be good for you.

Laurent: But if I fail then-

Robin: Then we learn from it and do better, but I don't think you'll mess up. I trust you.

Laurent: My inclination is to tell you your trust is displaced. However, I know better than to believe you would arbitrarily choose me for this task.

Robin: You're right. I didn't. I have every confidence in you. Feel free to take any of the Shepherds you feel may be helpful.

Laurent: Understood. I will leave at the first opportunity.

A

Robin: Laurent, I've been hearing some very good things about that mission you led. Everyone who went with you said your strategies were brilliant. Your mother and I are very proud.

Laurent: Thank you, Father. For the praise and the opportunity.

Robin: So, how was it?

Laurent: It was distressing at first. I kept running all possible ways to fail in my mind. However, I came to the realization that time I spent cowering was time wasted strategizing.

Robin: That's the same mindset I try to keep. I'm glad you came to learn it yourself.

Laurent: It was more like relearning actually. I used to try and think like that at all times but after seeing so many people die because I couldn't save them . . .

Robin: I understand. That would be discouraging for anyone. That's why I sent you on that mission. To restore your confidence.

Laurent: Well, I can confidently ay you succeeded. I still have some reservations but I feel like I can actually overcome them now.

Robin: I'm glad to hear it. And remember that I'm always here for you if you need advice.

Laurent: I will. Thank you, Father.

Thanks for reading. Hope you enjoyed.

Next time: Cynthia