Fire Emblem: Three Houses Advice Box Answers - how to be the best counselor

by Adam Vitale on 27 July, 2019

One of the activities you can do in Fire Emblem: Three Houses at Garreg Mach during Exploration time is to answer questions at the Advice Box in the cathedral area. During Exploration, you can talk to the Counselor NPC and answer one to three randomly drawn questions.

Answering the questions correctly give you affinity up (Support points) with the person who asked the question, which can be useful for improving your bond in battle or working towards character recruitment requirements. If you're keen to impress and boost the support with a specific character, don't forget to check out our dialogue choices and consequences page, our lost items list and our gift guide.

Anyway, heading to the advice box and playing counselor to the inhabitants of the monastery is an activity that does not take any Activity Points, and new advice box questions will pop up every week, not just once-a-month, so you'll want to check out this NPC every time you explore the monastery. This activity opens up in Month #6 of the Fodlan calendar year

This guide is in progress. Bolded answers shown below are wrong answers that have yet to be corrected.

The Counselor / Advice Box becomes available in Month #6. New notes will be available every week.

Advice Box Answers: Before Timeskip

Here's every advice box question and answer we came across before the timeskip in Fire Emblem: Three Houses.

Let me just ask you straight. What do you think makes a great mercenary?
- The will to fight for those who can’t protect themselves.

I’ve looked at the notes in this box before, and it seems like everyone’s always worried and complaining about stuff! Is everyone really that bad off?
- Worry often leads to growth

Meat and vegetables are both delicious, but some people complain about not liking one or the other. I just don't understand how anyone can snub a good meal!
- A well-prepared meal should be enjoyed by all

I've never been very good at arithmetic, but I can see how it would be a great skill to have when negotiating with merchants. How do I make it easier to learn?
- Ask a friend to instruct you

I wonder if I'll ever find a partner who understands I don't mean any harm when I flirt with others. Does someone like that really exist?
- You're bound to meet someone open-minded someday

I don't like interfering in squabbles between noble brats, but the parents complain if I don't. It's annoying.
- It could be entertaining to make the parents fight instead.

I often hear ridiculous rumors about ghosts appearing in the monastery. It's nonsense and it's disrupting my studies. There aren't really ghosts, are there?
- You have nothing to worry about. There are no ghosts.

I typically decorate with red roses when I host a tea party but lately I am considering the virtues of variety. Do you have any thoughts about other flowers I might try?
- White lilies are pleasant and calming.

I have some experience painting landscapes, and now I’d like to try my hand at a portraiture. Can you think of anyone who would model for me?
- Manuela would be open to modeling for you.

I’m trying to read any book about reason I can get my hands on, but now and again, I’ll come across one that’s written in a foreign language. How can I read those?
- You should start by studying the language.

When I was in the greenhouse earlier, a female student fled from me as if in terror. Why did she do that? I was only tending the flowers.
- Perhaps you unintentionally scowled at her

I’ve slept almost everywhere in the monastery, but lately I’ve been wanting to try sleeping outdoors. Do you know somewhere I could sleep under the stars?
- A courtyard full of blooming flowers.

Nothing surpasses the Hraesvelg Treatise on War as a general study on strategy, but what book best covers local tactics?
- Try reading Cichol’s General Treatise on Mercenaries.

My fellow students have called me dour. They say I should joke around more often. But what's the point in that?
- It can help settle prebattle nerves

If you feel overwhelmed by teaching, just ask me for help. I predict that guiding these imps through their teenage years will be IMPortant for Fodlan's future. Get it?
- I’ll let you know if I have any concerns.

Despite my appearance, I have long wished to be a Pegasus Knight that I may indulge in the lofty view. Yet that dream has always seemed out of reach. Can you guess why?
- Because heights make you uneasy.

I'm not good at talking to others. I can talk to birds, horses, and other animals just fine, but when it comes to people, I freeze up.
- Try pretending the person you're talking to is a horse.

I am occasionally asked to attend tea parties, but in truth, I do not care for hot beverages. I have considering waiting until it cools to drink, but I fear that would seem rude.
- You should just be honest with your host.

When I get into a Rhythm while cleaning, I always end up singing a song that I make up on the spot. It's so embarrassing when someone hears me! What should I do?
- I bet people really enjoy your songs

I found a wonderful painting at a shop in town. What a shame keeping this masterpiece all to myself! Can you think of an art lover in Garreg Mach I could share it with?
- You should show it to Sylvain.

I am an only child. Because of this, I am worried that my parents will have to adopt a child or do their best to have another of their own if I don't carry the family title.
- Relax. You can think it over before you graduate.

I have always despised the heat, even as a child. Still, one must be prepared to fight anywhere, no matter the conditions. Have you any advice for enduring the heat?
- Look for clothing and armor which breathe better.

There are many citizens of the Empire who are currently in despair. I think it's time for a change in leadership. Perhaps someone new should ascend the throne.
- You would do well as a ruler, Ferdinand.

It's my turn to clean, but I'm feeling under the weather. Even writing this note is a strain! I need to get someone else to do my cleaning for me. Who should I ask?
- Mercedes might be willing to help.

What can I do to ensure than an independently-minded young woman does not fall into harm's way?
- Keep an eye on her from a distance.

Life would be so much easier if no one had to talk face-to-face. Isn't written correspondence like this really the best form of communication? Or face-to-door chats?
- Occasional human interaction is good for you.

You can always put on more clothing when it's cold, but you can only remove so many layers in the heat. How does one survive a hot summer?
- Focus on reading to occupy your mind.

I am always looking to assist His Highness, but sometimes I find myself at a loss. What more can I do?
- Guard him with your life.

There's a new place in town I hear has some really tasty food. I asked them to hold two seats under my name, but I don't know who I should go with.
- I would be happy to join you

Song and dance live on in our memories, but there's no real record of them. Even memories fade over time. Will anyone remember me when I'm gone?
- I'm sure you'll live on in someone's heart.

Whenever I go for a walk, I get this strange feeling that someone is watching me. Who could it be?
- The goddess is watching from on high

I often overhear people commenting about how strange I am. I don't really get it. Shouldn't it be expected that everyone has their own unique perspective on life?
- Just follow your own path and don't worry about them.

The library is a place I favor, but I am having a problem. It is lacking sufficient information about Brigid! I have the hope that I can be fixing this problem.
- You should add to the Traveler’s Journal

Being a bit older than everyone else, I want the others to rely on me like an older sister. Is there anything I can do to make myself more approachable?
- Don't worry, you already are.

I usually enjoy sweets, but the traditional cakes from Enbarr are a bit much for my taste. How could those possibly have become a traditional desert?
- Who cares traditions are meant to be broken.

It's been a turbulent year.
- Steel yourself by spending some quiet time alone.

There is a person with whom I do not get along. Childish as it may sound, we always end up quarreling. Is there nothing I can do to remedy this?
- Try treating them like you would a friend.

You know, I don't even care when people say I'm short. But I'm definitely open to suggestions if you know of a quick way to grow!
- Getting plenty of sleep might help

I am trying to settle on a gift for a certain young lady who has experienced tough times as of late. Any suggestions?
- An academic textbook

I want to be able to enjoy my hobbies, but there's not enough time when I have to wait for everyone to go to bed and clear out of the common areas.
- I'm so sorry. That sounds like an impossible situation.

Even if I find love, I won't be able to live without money. I would like to get married someday, but I refuse to go back to being poor. What should I pursue?
- Love and money aren’t mutually exclusive. Strive for both.

Everyone treats me like a child. Please do something about it.
- You shouldn't feel pressured to act older than you are.

(There's just a drawing of what looks like a student throwing trash on the ground.)
- Let's add trash bins around the monastery.

I'd like to borrow a book from the library, but there are so many to choose from that I can't decide. Do you have any recommendations?
- A History of the Founding of Faerghus

I have as many worries as anyone else, but I must always feign dauntlessness. It can be rather taxing at times.
- Find time to relax every now and then

Classroom learning isn't enough to become a strong knight! There's got to be someone around here who can teach me how to get as strong as possible!
- Dimitri would be a good resource.

Flayn is an interesting young lady, but keep your distance. Seteth's quite protective, and you wouldn't want to fan the flames of his wrath - or should I say, fan the Flayns!
- A hedge between keeps friendships green.

If I told you I was searching for someone who might like to share a cup of tea with an elegant noble, whose name would come to mind?
- Ferdinand would be good company

Lately I feel myself growing tired and out of practice. I wish there was someone around here with whom I could dance fervently and intensely.
- What about Dorothea?

Words cannot express my disgust with the students here. So many of these fools rely on their noble status or their Crest's power as an excuse to shirk their training.
- You should spar with them

There are as many men in this world as stars in the sky, but you meet so few good men during your time on this planet. How does one meet a worthy partner?
- Man or no man, lots of people care about you.

I have great love for the sea, but Garreg Mach has too much distance from it. I am needing to be in the water soon. Where is the best place for swimming?
- You should visit a sea to the south

I feel like the tough fighters who become legends mostly use swords and lances. Are those really the weapons you have to wield if you want to make your mark on history?
- You should fight with the weapon the best suits you

I try to hold back when swinging a weapon, but sometimes I misjudge my own strength. I’ve broken so many weapon this way. Is there anything I can do to remedy this?
- Take care to repair weapons in between training sessions.

It’s standard practice for a general not to stand on the front lines. What should I do if I see him deliberately ignoring this rule at the risk of his own life?
- The “standard practice” isn’t always the best practice.

I see it all the time. Someone falls for a scheme and then gets angry about it. But rather than being mad at the schemer, shouldn’t they be busy plotting their revenge?
- That sounds like the logic of a schemer

There’s someone whose Crest I wish to study. I’ve asked many times, but I can’t get them to consent. There must be some way to persuade them.
- Nothing beats sincerity

I’m not good at cleaning up. I try my best, but before I know it, everything’s messy again.
- Cleaning is easy when you have a plan of attack

A professor’s job seems so repetitive. It’s the same thing day after day. I used to be interested in teaching, but it seems way too boring for someone like me.
- I’m too busy to be bored

I wish to make new friends, but my brother always interferes. How can I get him to back off?
- I’ll persuade him to stop

There’s someone I just can’t seem to beat. What’s a quick and easy way to make them give up and say uncle?
- ”Quick and easy” never works

(There’s just a drawing of what looks like a broken vase.)
- If you broke a vase, you should apologize to the owner.

I’m supposed to write a letter to my brother to let him know how I’m doing. But there’s nothing that I want to write about, and on top of that, it’s just too much work.
- Why not tell him about your friends?

The tea here does absolutely nothing for me. I could send for some supplies from home, but is there truly not a soul in this place with tea fit for a noble?
- Lorenz would be a good source.

I am more than capable of protecting myself from ruffians, but those around me tend to worry, and so I am often denied the pleasure of a private stroll.
- You're too important, so I'm afraid it can't be helped.

I want to make somebody change his boorish behavior, but he doesn’t seem to care no matter how much I urge him to reconsider his actions. I’m at my wit’s end!
- It’s probably time for your professor to step in.

I’m hesitant to invite a girl to my room in the middle of the night with You Know Who living right next door.I’m terrified of the scolding I’d get the next day.
- Maybe I’ll rethink the room assignments.

I want to get better at cooking, but I don’t know where to start. I wish I knew someone who could help me.
- You should cook with Ashe

I've reunited with my daughter after years of being apart, but I'm the one who left her in the first place. I don't know what to say, or even how to speak with her.
- Just love her and treat her with kindness.

When I see the students enthusiastically eating together in the dining hall, I sometimes wish to join them. I wonder if that would be a bother.
- I'm sure the students would be happy to share a meal.

Everyone seems to believe I only ever think about the buying and selling of things, but I'm very multifaceted! I also offer advice on longterm investment opportunities!
- Worrying is a waste of time, and time is money!

The only physicians willing to work underground are ones who charge exorbitant amounts for their services. For the sake of the sick and dying, how do I correct this?
- Ask the church for help

All my problems boil down to not having enough gold. It's gotten so bad that even when I actually get my hands on some, I don't know what to do with it.
- Next time you've got gold, I'll help you decide.

So I write my problems here, and you fix them for me? Yeah, right. This is just a setup for some hokey self-help nonsense, isn't it?
- You could at least write me a good joke

I could say I have no concerns, but of course I would be lying. My ambitions are endless! Soon I shall bind the very firmament to my will. The clouds will obey my commands!
- That may actually be too much, even for you.

Advice Box Answers: After Timeskip

Things change a fair amount in the world of Fire Emblem: Three Houses with the passage of time, but the worries and concerns of characters at the monastery do not, so you've plenty of time to be a counselor and deal with the advice box. Here are the questions and answers for it we've found thus far. Of course, which characters are available to ask for advice depends on which route you chose and which characters you've recruited.

Growing out my hair was not intentional. I was busy with other things in life, so I never thought to get it cut. It hurts that others thought I grew my hair out to be fashionable.
- It looks good on you.

What’s the difference between killing someone and calling for their death instead? In both situations, their blood is on your hands, so isn’t it all the same?
- Like all things, it’s about context and perspective.

I fear that I will not be able to achieve my dream within my lifetime. Therefore, I must find up a worthy successor. Wherever will I locate such a fervent youth?
- It will be easy after we rebuild the Officer's Academy.

I hope to improve my riding skills before our next battle. Any suggestions for where to begin? I want people to see me on horseback and say, “He reins supreme!”
- Start by befriending the horse you’ll be riding.

People used to believe the goddess once fell here from the Blue Sea Star, but according to astronomical research, the light from that star takes millions of years to reach us.
- Lies about the goddess abound.

No joke, I lost the book where I write all my puns. I can’t ink of anywhere I word have left it. Quill you help me recover it?
- You’re probably just not searching the write places.

I understand the risk of fighting on the front lines, but I simply must be out there to lead my troops. Is there some way I can reduce the danger?
- It’s said that the best defense is a good offense.

My dream of becoming a proper knight still feels so far off. What can I do to realize my full potential?
- Be honest and stick to your convictions

Every day is filled with the harshness of war. My only solace is eating sweets, is that childish of me?
- Everyone finds solace in different ways.

All we do is battle. The fighting never stops, and it’s turning everyone’s disposition dour. Even the ladies! We should throw a banquet to lift everyone’s spirits.
- Good idea, I’ll see what I can do.

Garreg Mach is surrounded by the abundance of nature, but securing provisions during times of warring can still be difficult. The is different from the land of my home.
- Yes, this place is quite different than Brigid.

Nobles must never lose their composure. We must always exude an aura of grace. That said, is it necessary for us to be graceful on the battlefield as well?
- In battle, survival is all that matters.

I thought being a noble meant having some sway in life. I thought if I told people I wanted to stay locked up in my room, they’d leave me be.
- One day everyone will listen to you...and leave you alone.

I appreciate ruined buildings. They symbolize that no home is permanent.
- They remind us that life is impermanent as well.

What are all these knight lovers talking about when they go on and on about chivalry? Maybe I don’t get it because I don’t care about being a knight.
- They’re referring to strength and courage.

I have a burning ambition, but making it come true would mean betraying my parent’s wishes. I’m not courageous enough to persuade them. What should I do?
- Nothing will change unless you are honest with them.

After the war, there will be fewer opportunities to fight. When that day comes, what should I do? How will I keep my sword skills sharp?
- Strive to become the best in all of Fodlan.

Everyone who hears the songs I make up laughs and says they’re funny, but they’re not supposed to be humorous! What’s so funny about my lyrics?
- Don’t fret. They’re great lyrics that are unforgettable.

I want to be helpful, but I lack the self-confidence to do so. Is it OK for someone like me to be here, or should I leave?
- You should stay, you’re more helpful than you realize.

Sometimes I make really, really big mistakes. But I can’t afford to make mistakes on the battlefield, you know? Isn’t there a way for me to fix that?
- Just stay calm and be aware of your surroundings.

In the past, I would nearly pass out if I got splattered by an enemy’s blood. Nowadays I remain entirely conscious, even if my face is drenched in blood. It’s disgusting.
- It’s natural to feel repelled by the horrors of war.

I have concerns about allowing a young woman still on the cusp of adulthood to spend time alone with members of the opposite sex. What are your thoughts?
- Try to prevent it as much as you can.

My dear friend has been behaving strangely. He doesn't seem to have much an appetite, and he's been neighing less often. I'm afraid he may be sick.
- You should seek out an expert opinion, just to be safe.

I really start craving sweets when I am tired or stressed out. I wish there was some king of yummy confection that I could make with the limited ingredients available to us.
- Check the library for a simple, traditional recipe.

I wonder if there will be a day when both the monastery and Faerghus are restored to their former glory.
- That day will come. We'll make sure of it.

Isn't there a way to turn withered, barren land into soil that is rich and abundant with crops? It pains my heart to see people dying of starvation.
- Check the library for books on unique farming techniques.

In an attempt to clean my room, I tried to throw out the things I no longer need, but I can't bring myself to do it. After all, I can't just throw away precious memories, right?
- Meeting new people helps make new memories

I've recently begun to think that ghosts may not exist. But if that's true, I don't know how to explain what I saw when I was a kid.
- It could have been some kind of magic.

How can I convince someone who is working himself sick to take a break?
- Invite him to sit down to a relaxing meal

People always say that my muscles are huge, but I'm still not satisfied! It would be way better if my muscles were even huger, right?
- Huge muscles are a symbol of strength.

I used to think it foolish to cover one's face in battle with a mask or helmet, but it actually may not be that bad. It means you don't have to look your opponent in the eye.
- Never turn a blind eye to your own actions.

I trip all the time, but what if I trip on the battlefield? Will I die? I'm probably going to die.
- Focus on what you'll do if the enemy trips instead.

My hair's longer than it used to be. I don't care what the guys think, but I'm still curious if it looks good on me.
- It looks good long.

I'm weary from this ceaseless fighting. I wonder if I'll ever meet a kind, beautiful young lady who can cure my hardened heart.
- You will one day, I'm sure of it.

Someone I care about has been working so hard that I'm worried they might collapse from exhaustion. Is there anything I can do?
- A nice meal shows support and provides a chance to relax.

Perhaps it is because I am operating with half my normal vision now, but desk work strains my eye terribly. How can I best maintain efficiency like this?
- Have someone acquire eye drops for you.

I don't have time to leisurely wait for the future. Even if it means resorting to violence, I want to end this war as soon as possible. Is that selfish of me?
- The steady approach is actually the fastest, in the end.

I am interested in cooking, but I can't seem to get any better at it. What should I do to improve my cooking?
- Keep practicing and you'll get the hang of it.

I'm so busy working that I don't have time to train. But I want to do my job right. What should I do?
- Just do what you can and try your best.

I hate having to be sneaky and stay quiet when an enemy is in my line of sight. It's not that I can't do it, but I don't think I'm cut out for ambushes and stuff like that.
- You'll get better at it if you train.

We've been without Lady Rhea for more than five years. Every time the sun rises, I feel a little more accustomed to her absence. I hate it! I know she's still alive. She must be.
- Don't worry. We will find her and rescue her.

If someone is having trouble falling asleep, you could sing them a lullaby, but you can't really do that for yourself. Is there anything you can do to help yourself fall asleep?
- If you exercise before bed, that's sure to tire you out.

I wrote a letter to my wife back home, but now I can't bring myself to send it.
- I'm sure hearing from you would make her happy.

Some structures on the battlefield are centuries old. They are at once historical relics and works of art. What a shame it would be if any were damaged amidst the fighting.
- You can immortalize them in your art.

I think a change of pace is necessary every so often., especially in times like these. That said, how do you suggest I change my pace?
- You should sample food at various restaurants

A prominent noble ought to possess a few quality pieces of art. What sort of work would best suit me?
- A magnificent landscape

I fear falling asleep at night. I worry that I will not awaken for many years, and that when I do, all my friends will be gone.
- We won't allow that to happen.

Some people want to make a difference by fighting on the front lines, but there are those of us who want to provide support from the back. Don't you think we're heroes too?
- As long as everyone does their part, I'm happy.

I'm writing a letter to my little sis, and I want to send her a present, but I never know what to send. What kind of gift do you think would make her happy?
- Send her some tasty treats.

Sometimes I think that living like I do, single but surrounded by talented youths, might not be such a lonely life after all. After all, I'm not lonely, really.
- If you do get lonely, I can lend you an ear.

A subordinate is down because they failed a recon mission. Making it back alive should be reward enough. How can I convince them of this.
- Say that only the living can learn from their mistakes.

I have been searching for an ideal wife with whom to start a family for years now. How long must I wait?
- After the war, such pursuits will be much easier.

I've always hated exercising and avoided training, but now I'm afraid that I may be holding everyone back. Is there anything I can do to support my allies?
- You can boost their morale with a delicious meal.

I've lived in the slums for a long time, and I saw how the people there suffered from poverty and the ravages of war. There must be something I can do to save them.
- Strive to save Fodlan from the ground up.

I'd like to have a duel with you where we're both giving it our all, but I suspect if we crossed blades without holding anything back, one of us would end up dead.
- Let's just try to survive this war for now.

I am composing a record of our battles, for posterity's sake. When was it that the Flame Emperor first appeared to us?
- The battle in the underground chamber.

It is, of course, necessary to keep one's quarters nice and tidy. I wish that the battlefield could be tidy as well, but I know that is a hopeless wish.
- A messy battlefield helps one appreciate a clean room.

My friend's birthday is coming up, and I want to make her a gift. What would be better, a hair clip or a necklace?
- I'm sure she'd be happy to get either one.

Animals have never been fond of me. Even warhorses and wyverns are put off by my countenance. What can I do?
- If it gives you more confidence, hide behind a helmet

If there were three villages with no watering holes, and one well was dug along the border between the villages, what do you think would become of the people there?
- A war would likely start over dominion of the well.

How can I create a world where everyone is on equal footing, regardless of their place of birth, their bloodline, or whether they have a Crest?
- Lead by example, and show the world what it's capable of

I hate that I couldn't protect Lady Rhea five year ago. I need to get stronger.
- Keep at it. You're getting stronger all the time.

I have attained great skill at writing this language., but speaking it still gives me difficulty. Can you provide me with advice for achieving mastery of this?
- NOT There's no trick, just keep practicing.

Once, as a boy, I struck my father. Now that I think back on it, he must have been upset at the time. I wish that I could go back and apologize to him.
- That's just how life is sometimes.

When I was a child, I feared such trivial things as divine punishment and grudges held by the dead. These days, I fear zealots and grudges held by the living instead.
- In truth, it's reality that is most frightening.

Fishing is what truly calms me, but it is time-consuming. What do you think should I do when a visit to the pond is too inconvenient?
- Write a story about fishing.