Reimian Empire

Not an option. I don't need non-blockability that much (although non-parry is good), and I don't need the damage; I need to compensate for the loss of agility, accuracy, and survivability. I could also use more willpower, but it seems like that's not possible.
And in terms of roleplaying, a new branch is better. A new life means a new, more evil branch. Besides, while I have the opportunity, I should write in the quest log that I found a teacher, instead of searching for one.