The Cost of Conquest — A play by Amanda DeLalla
"Now, how will you alter the course of history today?"
The protagonist of The Cost of Conquest has a personality shift depending on the choice she makes at the top (and middle) of the play. The main character was directly inspired by the avatar mechanic of Fire Emblem, whose choices also impact the outcome of the game.
A drawing of a young white woman from the waist up, with dark blue hair and fair skin. She is looking slightly to the right. She is wearing an avant-garde-style top with a black cloak draped over the shoulders.
“My lot in life has been good, thank God. If your mother hadn't taken pity on me, well – I would've likely starved to death or been killed by bandits. I owe her a debt... which is why it was an easy choice to stand by her in this war.”
Protagonist I. 2020. Pen & ink on paper. 12 by 9 inches. Image described by the artist.
A drawing of a young white woman with fair skin and long blonde hair. She is smiling directly at us. She has piercing dark blue eyes and red ribbons in her hair. She is holding a scythe in both hands. She's wearing a pink and purple mini-dress with thigh-high purple boots.
"In return, I promise to lead you, my people, into a new age of prosperity – one that is governed not by your birthright but by your own merit. Anyone can be anything in my kingdom. Let us make Edelgard great again."
Villain. 2020. Pen & ink on paper. 12 by 9 inches. Image described by the artist.
A drawing of a young white woman from the waist up, with short sandy hair and fair skin. She is in half-profile but looking directly at us. She is wearing a black hat, with has a veil attached to it, and a corset-like dress.
"Milady, ever since I was a child I dreamed of transcending my commoner birth and being of use to Her Majesty and this kingdom I love. And now that we’re in this situation, I can think of no better way than to fight by your side."
Protagonist II. 2020. Pen & ink on paper. 12 by 9 inches. Image described by the artist.