I like the look of 3x3 spokes is it as strong as cross three? It is supposed to be harder to change a broken spoke, but if you use a flexy spoke maybe it doesn't mater.

Fenders?

32 spoke wheels in 700c is lightweight. I've never broken a 32 wheels spoke, but I have only had them on 26s. I'm not saying it will be a problem, and it probably won't be if you are light.