Whittling away the hours
Starter for @minorindech
A recent snowstorm at the base of the Oghma Mountains has blown a group of lumberjacks into Garreg Mach’s castle town. The Society of Axe Personnel (proudly referring themselves as “SAP”) are grateful for the assistance that the Church has offered, and in return they decided to put together a lumberjack skill competition! Practice climbing trees, logrolling in the fishing pond, and carving wooden statues with your axe! [Grants +1 Axe]
Byleth ventured down to Garreg Mach’s castle town once she’d finished writing her student’s report cards for the week. She’d heard over breakfast that a group of lumberjacks had just arrived and set up camp. She had run across plenty of woodsmen during her time as a mercenary and found them to make for pleasant company and their skill with the axe was a sight to behold.
The streets had a festive atmosphere as she reached the marketplace. Stalls lined the perimeter of the courtyard, merchants shouting to advertise their wares. She wondered about purchasing a small gift for Jerlat who had been away on a lot of missions recently. With a goal in mind she began perusing the items on offer but nothing stood out. Looking towards the central area she noticed the groups of students and townsfolk sat together hunched over offcuts of wood. Taking a closer look she saw that a wood carving workshop was taking place, members of the SAP were walking between groups offering advice.
On the edge of one of the groups she spotted Bernadetta. The quiet social recluse of the Black Eagles had her head down as she worked on her own piece. Byleth had yet to encounter the girl outside of her room so went over to her thinking she could use the opportunity to have a conversation face to face.
“Excuse me, is this spot taken?” She asked pointing to the spare seat. An idea was forming in her mind of a gift for her father. It would be a nice touch to create it herself even if her effort would pale compared to a professional. She was sure he’d appreciate the effort. “Would you mind me joining you for a spot of wood carving?”