My Battle Ballot for CYL8

It's already time for the Choose Your Legends (CYL) event, and the FEH community is extremely excited to choose their favorite characters from across the Fire Emblem franchise - whether not released in the game, or due for an alt by popular demand. The top 2 heroes for each gender will be released in a Brave Heroes banner in August, where the game's meta will be changed drastically, with the introduction of new mechanics and skills. Additionally, there will also be a free summon version where players can choose any one of the new units for free.

This is the 8th voting event that happens simultaneously with the 1st year anniversary celebration of Fire Emblem Engage, which launched in January 20th last year. To commemorate this occasion, I went on voting for characters exclusive to Engage, and those I anticipate having a full Engage CYL this year. As submissions have come to a close, I'm eager to share my ballot for Choose Your Legends 8.

My Full Ballot

DAY 1: Alear (F)

The main protagonist of the game, also whom the community likes to refer as "Pepsi-chan" in her initial debut, due to the distinct red and blue colorations on each side of her eyes and hair that resemble the Pepsi logo. I've voted for the female version since it is the default gender, and in my opinion, has a better design than her male counterpart. A single vote for Alear gives me a fresh start to represent the Engage ballot. However, I could see other more popular girls competing for her spot, so even if she didn't win the CYL event, she may get an alt in some other form like summer or workout (if fitness banner becomes a thing in FEH).

DAYS 2, 4 & 6: Diamant

I considered voting for different Engage characters until the interim results have been released, and it includes Diamant and Ivy, who are even more likeable and popular candidates. Therefore, I have to allocate 3 votes to each of them. 

Diamant, the Crown Prince of Brodia got my vote due to his great design and an earnest, charismatic nature befitting the king. His high appeal within the community grants him a strong chance of winning the men's division. Expect him donning an attire reminiscent to his father, King Morion. In case if you're wondering, some previous CYL winners had given costumes that resemble their parents. Seliph, for example, won CYL 6 about 2 years ago and he wears Sigurd's attire.

DAYS 3, 5 & 7: Ivy

The Crown Princess of Elusia captivates most players with her serene and dignified attitude, which completely deviates from what we'd expect for a seducing character concept. Not to forget that she has somewhat a "love interest" towards Alear. Because of this, she has raised a lot fans and besides Yunaka, an another Engage character whom I feel confident of winning CYL8. I can see her donning a garb that resemble King Hyacinth's, adding a regal touch to her honor.

To wrap things up,

If we can get a full Three Houses banner 4 years ago, why not do the same for Engage? Well, the game does not receive that well as its predecessor. I could see one or more more popular non-Engage characters like Felix, Sigurd or even Bernadetta (after Gullveig robbed her spot previously) sneaking into the lineup. That's okay, because it's supposed to be an event to show off your favorites. In the meantime, I can't wait for the winners to be announced in FEH's 7th Anniversary Channel. 

R.I.P Sommie who isn't votable. It would be hilarious if we have an actual animal for the first time. I guess violence against puppies will not be tolerated

Credits to Nintendo & Intelligent Systems for the official artwork.