Hello! Today's chapter will be following the first group of brave infiltrators as they ride into the heart of the enemy's territory, Draconis!

Severa: Hey, what are we doing?

Lucina: She makes a good point, 7. I certainly wouldn't leave something like this alone.

7: That will be covered in due time. First things first.

Severa: You'd better. Last thing I want is Aunty getting into trouble.

Lucina: Severa, Aunt Nowi always gets into trouble. She got scolded more than we did before Nah was born.

Severa: True…

7: *Clears throat* While this is fascinating, we should move on. Positions people!

The Festival

No one spoke the night they left.

Their cloaks whipped about them in the cold air of Ferox, the chill biting at every inch of exposed skin. The first leg of their journey would be the shortest, traveling from Regna Ferox to Ylisse, but it would in turn be the most bitter.

Frederick felt none of the cold, his discipline allowing him to ignore it. Instead, he thought on what little information he had about the province of Draconis and any allies they could find to aid their cause.

The only one I know that came to Ylisstol regularly was the Bishop of Gariel, head of the Grand Cathedral. He was Lady Emmeryn's teacher when she was learning the ways of the church and inducted her into the Ylissean Sages. If we could meet with him, he would make a powerful ally. Besides him, most of the Draconis citizens in positions of power want little to do with the outside provinces.

The thud of another horse's hooves came from beside him. "If you're thinking about possible contacts, I already got some. Got a couple guys that can get us into Gariel without issue, give us a base at that. Question is whether your sense o' justice will let them live afterward."

Frederick snorted, his gaze turning to the oddly serious Gaius. "Those who help can be pardoned, though I cannot guarantee that mercy to the hand of these rebels."

Gaius shrugged, his hair whipping about his ears. "All I can ask. These guys saved my hide more than once, so I can tell you they're trustworthy. Question is whether or not the nobles have gone after the Chain yet."

Frederick frowned, vaguely recalling the term. "The Chain?"

Gaius tapped the side of his head. "It's what we thieves call the underworld, away from all the justice and blue blood. Everyone's an informant for someone else, so if you rattle the Chain, everyone knows it."

Frederick shook his head, a roaring gust making him raise his voice. "Then let us hope this Chain doesn't give us away! I refuse to have this mission end so poorly."

Gaius cracked a smile for the first time that day. "Aw, it ain't that bad. These guys aren't part of the Chain, that I know of. They won't tell anybody unless we really screw them over."

Frederick huffed and that was the end of the conversation. Gaius pulled away from Frederick's side and started moving between the others, likely telling them the same information. With at least something of a plan in place, conversation returned to the grave until they reached the Longfort.

They were halted, as expected, but were soon waved through the main gate. They galloped for three more leagues after they entered the snowy forest of northern Surperius. Then they turned down a small path. Vaike led the way through the undergrowth, their speed a fraction of what it once was thanks to the uncertain footing.

Frederick kept enough of his wits to follow Vaike's horse, but his eyes continually trailed to Nowi. Her hair was hidden under her cloak's hood, but she went the extra mile by tying her long locks into a bun and a braid that circled her head.

Vaike and Gaius may have chuckled when they first saw the styling, but Frederick could only think of how he'd ruined her gift. Of how, with a single answer and no chance to explain, he'd essentially ruined his friendship with her.

How… he'd strangled any chance of something more.

Frederick shook his head. Now wasn't the time to be dwelling on a broken heart, that was best saved for later.

Nowi was the first to break the silence. "So… after we meet Gaius's contacts, what next?"

Libra kept his voice low. "We will attempt to gather information, discreetly. Gaius will be doing any infiltration necessary, but I've been to Gariel several times in the past. "If it remains unchanged, there are a number of local gossips."

Gaius chuckled. "If you're talking about the local watering holes, most of them are shut. Some ordinance passed by the Duke got permission from the majority of the priesthood and banned a lot of the commoner taverns."

Vaike guffawed at that news, but he somehow kept his voice low. "Really? That's a recipe for disaster if you ask me. Everyone wants a pint at some point, the commoners especially. That's bound to make the locals angry, and stir up a number of unofficial meeting spots."

Gaius shrugged. "It's been going on for a while. See, I worked out of Draconis for a long time, but after the old Archcleric died, the church and nobility started passing all kinds of laws. Most of them were pretty inane things, like marking an official time where everything closes, but they've escalated as time's gone by."

Libra sighed. "Then much as it pains me, we will use their folly to our advantage. Vaike, how long does this trail go?"

Vaike tapped a tree as his horse walked by. "Goes for another five leagues. It'll end just outside of a town called Menagerie, one of the big festival grounds. In fact, one of the bigger ones should be going on about now."

Libra hummed. "Ah, the Festival of Earth. There should be a number of merchants selling everything from crystals to granite blocks. Should be a good place to start before we head out again."

Gaius pulled a stick of rock candy from his coat and started sucking on it. "What do you say, big man? You get final say in this."

Frederick stroked his chin, rolling the information in his head. His gaze once again turned to find Nowi, but his decision was made when he saw interest spark in her eyes. "Very well then. At the very least, there will be less scrutiny for any travelers coming to the town. We can learn some general knowledge and work out a way into Gariel from there."

The logic made sense. Sure, Gaius said he had some contacts that could get them in, but it was always better to have multiple options. Acting as curious outsiders in a small town on their way to the big city would draw less suspicion anyway.

If it gave Frederick the chance to try and find the jewels he'd accidently destroyed, then all the better.

Hearing no dissenting opinions, they fell into a tense silence. Everyone was on high alert for any and all sounds that could signal an ambush. Their nerves were nearly shot from paranoia by the time they reached the end of the trail.

Gaius took point, glancing over the field they found themselves in. Seeing nothing, he waved the others forward and they galloped to the road that cut a clear line in the grass.

Vaike pointed to a spot of light steadily growing on the horizon. "Dawn. We should probably take a break."

Frederick disagreed. "And risk a patrol finding us unprepared? I'd prefer we make the village."

Nowi spoke for the first time in hours, her voice strangely stern. "We are not animals, Frederick. A short rest isn't uncalled for when we've made it this far in one night."

Wide eyes flew between everyone not named Frederick or Nowi, Gaius discreetly signaling his question.

What's with the lovebirds?

Libra responded with a shake of his head and another signal.

I'm unsure, but whatever it is, they need to put it aside.

Vaike grunted, not wanting to try and figure this out. "Make a decision big guy. We can try for the village now or take a break, your choice."

Frederick seemingly didn't hear, his eyes trained on Nowi's stoic face. The expression sat a little too well on her features, forming a hard, beautiful mask that radiated something akin to authority.

But this was also the woman who had happily stolen his steak and gave it back to him piecemeal with promises of tag. With that image in mind, Frederick was unintimidated. "We will continue toward the village for a little longer. I agree that showing up at the crack of dawn is not the best way to avoid detection, but I would prefer a more visible area further from the woods. They may be able to see us, but we can see them should a patrol break off to confront us."

Frederick looked around to see no disagreement, even if Nowi's silence continued to worry him. "We are agreed then. We'll ride for another half hour, and then we'll rest."

He spurred his steed on, hearing the others follow close behind. As expected, the land was grassy hills with stretches of flat terrain every so often, the only sign of humanity being the village they'd spotted after exiting the forest.

True to his word, Frederick signaled a stop a half hour later, reigning his horse in on a small knoll. It wasn't the largest of the surrounding hills, or the most defensive, but it was better than nothing. That, and it provided some nice shade as the sun made its appearance.

As Frederick swung off his horse, his hands dug through the saddlebags and produced a feedbag and bowl. "Here you go, eat up. I'll put the water here."

His horse snorted, but let him wrap the feed around her snout. Frederick pulled a flagon from the limitless depths of the saddlebags and poured out some water.

Satisfied, Frederick looked around. Vaike was checking his weapons while Libra and Nowi were having a quiet discussion, the only things Frederick could hear having to do with elixirs. The only one not working was Gaius, who was walking up to him. "Do you require something?"

Gaius beckoned him closer, pulling the knight's head down so he could hear Gaius's whisper. "I don't know what you did, big guy, but you need to have a talk with our lady friend over there. This silent treatment and aggression needs to be nipped before we get somewhere really dangerous."

Frederick glared at the assassin. "I'm well aware that it needs to happen. Why do you think I agreed to stopping at this town? Besides, she refuses to speak with me right now; I'd have to kidnap her if we were to talk."

Gaius remained stoic. "She's no stranger to kidnapping, may I remind. As it stands, you two need to at least make a truce until we're done in Draconis. After that, I don't care if you kill each other."

Frederick glared harder, letting some of the rage he'd been harboring show itself. "Watch your tongue, lest I remove it. I know this mission takes priority, and I plan on making that truce the moment I can. Do not think I am so blinded by duty that I cannot think."

Gaius backed off at the fire in Frederick's eyes, a grimace pulling at his lips. "So long as it's out in the open. I don't like offendin' people when they don't deserve it, but I had to be sure. This whole thing's too important to mess up."

Frederick leaned back, cold stoicism returning to his face. "Do you speak as a Shepherd, or as one intent on seducing the Heiress of Themis?"

Gaius's eyes lit with anger, but Vaike had seen them getting testy and jogged over. "Alright, that's enough. You two can sort this out in a sparring match later; I'm thinkin' we should be on our way."

Gaius and Frederick kept glaring at each other, but Vaike's words were able to pierce their anger. They didn't say anything, but turned and went back to their horses.

Vaike exhaled through his nose, silently wondering if this group was the best idea.

After that, no more words were given and they cantered back to the road, ignorant of the shadow that had been watching them since they left the forest.

The shadow scribbled on a piece of parchment, adding details to the portraits. "I should report to Dame Catherine. I have a feeling she'd like to know about this."

The shadow vanished, the Shepherds none the wiser. They reached the town just as the sun parted the horizon.

Vaike gave a low whistle as they trotted up to the gates. Even from where they were, the preparations for a big party were easy to see through the gates. "Man, what was the festival's name again? Last time I was here, this place was a lot less lively."

Libra let a gentle smile rise on his face. "The Festival of Earth. It's a grand celebration for most farmers, since they ask for Naga's blessing for peace and Titan's blessing for healthy land."

A hearty laugh greeted that explanation, a man in a tabard walking up to them with a genial smile. "That's right! We also ask for Viridios's blessing, to receive a bountiful harvest."

He looked them over, eyes sharp even though his smile remained. "You lot travelers? Should probably tell you the provincial borders got closed recently, so I hope you weren't planning on leaving Draconis."

Libra, the least threatening looking of them all, answered. "That's quite alright. We'd heard that the festival in Menagerie was quite the spectacle, so we came to visit. After that, we'd like to see the Grand Cathedral if at all possible. Mt. Prism after that, right?"

He looked back to Frederick, who nodded. It was a good story, even if the timing seemed a little convenient.

"Well why didn't you say so? We gladly board any pilgrims, and since I like the look of ya, I'll point you to the best inn we got. Trust me, the real party starts at night."

Libra bowed his head. "Thank you for your kindness. May we ask your name, sir?"

The man tapped his head. "Name's Mack, I'm in charge of the guards. As for the inn, it's called 'Blue Scale' and I'm friends with the owner. Just mention me and he'll give you a discount, same with the tavern down the street. Enjoy your stay."

Libra's head rose and he spurred his horse. "We will, good sir. I hope you have a pleasant rest of your day."

Libra led the others into the village, their eyes peeled for anyone that may be looking at them and whispering. Thankfully, many were simply curious and more than a few called greetings. Those that weren't…

Well, Gaius had their faces memorized.

Besides that, Frederick was keeping an eye on the stalls that were being set up. So far, he'd spotted several that had pieces of jewelry, but he had yet to see one that sold loose gems.

The ones that sold food would at least give him an excuse to talk to Nowi, but he really needed to try and hunt down those gems. Oh, and get a pie for Gaius, that argument was too petty to leave untreated.

Shaking his head, Frederick called them to a stop. "Alright, I'll go rent out rooms. I'll try and make sure they're secure, but would you mind giving them a once over?"

The question went to Gaius, who only nodded. Was he still mad at Frederick? Yes, but that wouldn't interfere with his work.

Frederick next looked to Vaike and Libra. "Vaike, you know these people. Head over to the tavern and ask around, though try and be discreet. Libra, do you know if there's a chapel in this town?"

Vaike scoffed while Libra hummed. "I believe there is. One of my brothers came this way to minister before we set out for Plegia."

Everyone suppressed a grimace. While not common knowledge, most of the Shepherds had heard the story of how Libra's fellow priests had gone with him to Plegia. He was the only one who made it.

Frederick cleared his throat. "Then please go ask around there. If we're lucky, they can tell us about the Bishop."

Libra bowed and lowered himself from his horse. "Lady Nowi, would you mind keeping an eye on our horses?"

Nowi shook her head. "Sure, I'll take them to a stable. I think I see one… there."

She pointed to a squat building a short ways down the road, hay spilling into the street.

Frederick sighed, silently cursing a missed opportunity. "Very well, at least it's close. Nowi, I want you to meet with me and Gaius in the rooms, just ask for us."

Nowi huffed and lowered herself off her horse, grabbing the reins of the other two from Vaike and Libra. She set off down the road without another glance.

Frederick sighed again, this time looking to the inn. It was fairly standard as inns went, two stories, wide, windows on the second floor, and the smell of old wood.

Gaius grunted next to him. "Pretty nice, far as I can see. The front's clean at least, and I don't see anything that looks like a blood stain."

Frederick snorted, drawing a curious look from Gaius. "What?"

Frederick smirked. "A fine observation. Mayhaps I needn't apologize if anger makes you so sharp."

Gaius rolled his eyes. "Apologize with custard, and then I'll let it go. Come on, the sooner we do this the better."

He swept up the steps while Frederick clanked after him. Even in cloaks, it was hard to ignore the strange looks they were getting from their armor banging into itself.

The inside wasn't much to write home about, a simple reception area with a number of rooms ringing it and some stairs going up to the second floor behind a simple desk. Sitting at the desk was a reedy man with quill in hand scribbling over a thick book.

The man didn't even look up as they approached. "How many?"

Frederick let Gaius take the lead, his need to be proper a poor habit in these circumstances. "We've got five, my man. Mack said this was the best place in town."

The man looked up at Mack's name, his beady eyes staring at Frederick. "I...see. How many rooms will you need?"

Gaius felt a smirk rise on his face, "Two rooms. One with three beds – the other with just one. We got a couple that prefers their alone time."

Frederick's eye twitched painfully and he stepped forward, crushing Gaius' foot under his boot. Gaius whimpered and limped back a step. "One room with four beds, and a single will do just fine!" Frederick interjected.

The innkeeper eyed them both but then turned back to his book, "I see … alright then, I can't fulfill either request to the letter but," He glanced cautiously at both men again, "I can give you one room with three beds and one room with two." Frederick gritted his teeth and nodded. Gaius smirked, it was a smaller victory than he'd intended but a victory none-the-less.

The innkeeper made a few notes in his book, "Alright, the room with three beds is number four, to your left. Two beds is room 15, second floor on the right. Numbers are on the doors, you can't miss them."

He held out two iron keys, his other hand showing a bare palm. "That'll be fifty silver all told."

Frederick bit his lip, not sure. "That's for a single night, yes?"

The innkeeper nodded. "It is. Normally I charge sixty for that many, but since Mack recommended you, I'll give you a deal."

Frederick sighed and reached into his satchel. "We'll have to take two nights then. Will this cover it?"

He produced a single gold coin, making the innkeeper choke a bit. "Is that… a gold coin?"

Fredrick nodded. "It is. If I remember correctly, it's one hundred silver for every gold, correct?"

The innkeeper nodded vigorously. "It… it is, but we just don't see much gold here! I only charge so much since my inn's the oldest and the best around!"

Gaius nudged Frederick. "It's true. Most of those pastries outside might cost a single silver at most, three copper at least. That sack of yours could buy the finest piece of jewelry here and still be able to clean out the food."

Frederick snorted. "I didn't think Draconis was so bountiful as to charge such low prices. It's three silver for a bushel back home. Anyway, this should cover two nights."

He placed the gold piece into the innkeeper's hand, taking the keys from slack fingers. "We would like to see the rooms. After that, we'll head out for a while, but we would like to know when the stalls open."

The innkeeper nodded reverently. "They start selling at noon, milord. They have plays and dancing when the sun sets too."

Frederick smiled in thanks. "Very well. Gaius, you go see Room 15, I'll check Room 4."

He glanced to his hand and found the room 4 key gone. Turning to his left, he spied a shock of orange disappear behind a door with the number four on it. Frederick felt a foul curse rise to his lips, but he swallowed it. "Looks like I'll be taking the other room then. Good day, sir."

Frederick bowed shallowly before marching up the stairs to the room. It was at the end of the hall, and the key slid into the lock smoothly. Opening it, he sighed.

There were two beds, as promised, but they were separated by only a small nightstand. In the corner, two chairs and a table were poised just beside a large window looking out over the main street.

All normal, if it wasn't for the red sheets and candle arrangements. It was very much a couple's room, even with the separate beds, and it made Frederick groan while running a hand down his face. "Damn you, Gaius. I'm putting salt in your next pie if it kills me."

"And why would you do that?"

Frederick would have jumped out of his skin were he a lesser man. Instead, his brow just twitched and he turned to see an unimpressed Nowi staring at him. "Take a look, you'll see what I mean."

Nowi huffed and pushed him aside, but her jaw dropped at what she saw. "Uh…"

Frederick shook his head, hand mussing his hair. "This would be Gaius's fault. Rather than order a room for the men and one for you he managed to orchestrate this buffoonery."

Nowi's teeth ground together, the action audible. "Excuse me, I need to speak with Gaius."

She turned to try and storm down the stairs, but Frederick caught her arm. "Not so fast. You and I need to talk, now."

Nowi grit her teeth some more and pulled, her strength dragging Frederick, in full armor, along with her. "What do… we… have… to talk about?"

Frederick rolled his eyes. "What do you think? Nowi, we need to speak about what happened in Ferox. If there's any way I can convince you to sit down and let me explain, I will do it."

Nowi stopped, her face hidden from Frederick's view. Silence stretched for a few minutes before Nowi spoke. "There's no point… you'd just leave me alone again if Chrom was in trouble, just like everyone else."

Frederick felt his hand go slack, but Nowi didn't free herself. "But… I guess I'll let you pamper me. I want to go to this festival and enjoy myself, no matter what. Is that too much for you, or are you so set on helping your lord?"

Frederick's hand slipped to his side, a deep breath filling his lungs. "Nowi… I'll… I'll try my best, but I have to do some reconnaissance. If not for the mission, then at least so I'm helping the others."

Nowi folded her arms, face still hidden from him. "I suppose. It'd be rude to make them do all the leg work while I enjoyed myself."

Frederick sighed in relief, even as he started counting the money they'd be losing during this spree. "Thank you. I will do all that I can, you need only ask. If it helps, the stalls open at noon."

Nowi flipped her hair and started walking, not once turning to see him. "I want to eat something. Let's go find somewhere."

It was truly impressive that Nowi had such command in her voice, Frederick noted as they left the inn. She'd never once displayed such ability, not even as a dragon. It was rather harrowing and more than a little worrying, but he hoped his explanation could bring the cheerful Nowi back to them. Back to him.

All the while, as he wondered, Nowi slowly dug trenches in the skin of her arms. She could have ripped her silk gloves to shreds, tearing the ring from her middle fingers when they were gone.

But she didn't. She knew, after she'd had time to calm down, that Frederick was willing to explain himself. She just didn't want to let him, preferring her jealousy of Chrom.

Maybe being pampered will help me out. I decide if he can talk or not, but I won't! I don't care if this is the best day ever, he won't convince me!

Or so Nowi told herself. In truth, acting so cold and haughty was almost physically painful. It just wasn't in her nature to be cruel or arrogant, but anger had done strange things and she could feel it burning in her breast.

Along with that sick feeling of jealousy that had taken root the moment he chose Chrom over her.

Shaking her head, Nowi looked over the bustling town with a frown on her face. It was tiring to frown for so long, but she needed to keep appearances for now. "Alright, the guy at the gate mentioned a tavern, right?"

Frederick glanced down the road. "I believe he said it was down the road from here. I'm guessing… that way."

He pointed down the road and they set off. With Nowi's hood down, she received many an interested look, though thankfully she'd remembered to hide her ears, but most turned away when they saw Frederick escorting her.

A man in full armor only a step behind a beautiful woman screamed nobility, after all.

There were a few that didn't care, curses muttered under their breath, but Frederick and Nowi ignored them until the tavern came into sight. It wasn't that hard to spot, what with Vaike chugging a pint in plain view.

Frederick felt the urge to remand the berserker, but thought better of it when he saw Vaike conversing with a set of merchants. If he was going to get information here, Frederick was going to let him. "See anywhere you'd like to sit?"

Nowi scanned the open bar, the main room open to the street where they stood. "…There, next to the pillar. Prefer to see the street, make sure I can see the stalls, all that."

Frederick only dipped his head and procured the table next to the designated pillar. No one was there, thankfully, and Frederick courteously held the chair out for Nowi. "Do you have a preference for food or drink?"

Nowi shook her head, not really caring. "Just, no beer."

Frederick bowed and set off for the bar, Nowi settling into her seat with a sigh. She could already hear the other patrons whispering about her, the wonders of having such sharp ears, heh, but one conversation caught her interest.

They were three tables away, a pair of guardsmen on break, and discussing something of interest.

"What's the point of sending soldiers to shut down the border, we're nowhere near Plegia."

"Haven't you heard? The big wigs of the church ruled Prince Chrom ain't fit to rule. Said they were gonna put Carlen in his place."

The other guardsman snorted. "That rat? He hasn't the guts for something like ruling. You ask me, it'd be Lady Diane, Lord Dunwall, or Lady Catarnia. They rule their lands well, so why not them?"

His friend shrugged. "Got me, that's what they decided. Wonder why it was one o' the lesser clerics that made the announcement. You'd think the Bishop'd be the one to spill that kind of information."

A laugh met that. "The Bishop? Please, he's wrapped around that little marquise's finger, there's no way he'd actually make a decision without her word."

His friend's face scrunched. "That's… Marquise Meredith, correct? Didn't she try and win the Prince's eye a few months back?"

Another laugh. "Look, my cousin's part of her guard. Said that she went to that big shindig but got spurned by the Prince pretty quick. Threw one hell of a fit on the way back from what I heard."

Nowi blinked at that information. When had there been a big party involving Chrom's eye?

Her mind turned from that conversation as they descended into inane and vulgar comparisons of women. By that point, Frederick had returned with a pair of mugs in one hand and two plates balanced in his other. "I asked them for a sweeter beverage, but honey mead was the best they had. Besides that, I got you some sweet buns and a pair of Themis-style eggs."

Nowi had to keep herself from drooling. The sweet buns looked divine, a golden glaze oozing down the sides, but she stared at the meatballs that laid beside them. "Um, Frederick? Those aren't eggs."

Frederick smiled, a fork appearing in hand. One thing Nowi had fogtten was that he kept an entire set of utensils on him at all times for such an occasion. He pressed the fork into the meatball and grinned at Nowi's curious face as the meat parted to reveal a hard-boiled egg sitting in the center of the meat, the yolk solid.

"That, milady, is a Themis-style egg. They only serve them at festivals, so I thought you'd enjoy the treat."

Nowi licked her lips, taking the fork as Frederick offered it to her. Slicing off a chunk, she took her first bite of the treat and felt a smile rise on her face. "This is good! A little chewy with the yolk and all, but it's still really good!"

Frederick seemed to relax. "Truly? I'm glad then. The buns were just in case you didn't like the eggs."

Nowi shrugged, taking another bite from the treat. "I'll still eat those. I want to wander around after this, see what there is to see."

Frederick inclined his head. "As you wish. The stalls should be opening before much longer."

Nowi focused on her food then, not wanting to let her mind convince her heart to just forgive him. She wanted to be pampered damn it, and heaven if Frederick wasn't doing just that.

Vaike's yells and boasts echoed through the otherwise pleasant air, letting Nowi focus on something else. "He doesn't seem to be gathering information."

Frederick glanced to their companion. "Believe it or not, he is. He's drawing attention to himself and listening to the whispers that come of it. Considering many of these people are rather sedate for tavern goers, even this early in the day, there's bound to be something."

Nowi tilted her head, finger tapping her chin in thought. "I… guess that makes sense."

She glanced down at her plate and found it empty, a quick look at her cup showing it in the same situation. When did that happen? "I'm done. Shall we be off?"

Frederick stood and helped her out of her seat, every bit the perfect gentleman. Nowi took it in stride, but she felt her nails prick skin again as they walked back towards the stalls.

"Is there anything in particular you'd like to find?" Frederick asked when they arrived at the first row of stalls. Several vendors were already hawking their wares, but nothing caught Nowi's eyes.

"Nothing for now, I'll tell you when I see something." She replied, her feet carrying her through the gathering crowd. Frederick remained behind her at all times, even as the crowd thickened and she began jostling with the villagers.

It probably helped he had a head on nearly everyone there.

Nowi did notice Frederick's eyes travel to a few trinkets as they walked. Most of the items were, oddly, jewelry, but he never spent more than a moment looking at them.

Eventually, they came across a stall draped in blue and green cloth, a shining selection of loose gems sitting behind guards and steel. Frederick's interest was piqued, if the almost inaudible grunt he gave was any indication, and Nowi decided to humor him. "Let's look in here."

It wasn't like Nowi didn't want to browse either. She'd been a fan of shiny stones for as long as she could remember, which was probably a millennium at most.

Frederick marched right up to what had to be the stall owner, leaving Nowi to look through a pretty set of red and blue gems. She couldn't hear what Frederick was saying, even with her sharp ears, but he was gesturing to two cases in particular.

Curious, Nowi turned her eyes to the cases he was pointing to. One held a jet-black stone that looked about the size of her fist and the other held a green stone that had pleasant swirls in the grain.

Nowi frowned, confused. Why would he be interested in gems? Maybe he needs them for his pebble collection..? No, they're too big. Maybe Gaius needs them? He has been asking about loose gemstones so he can practice making jewelry.

Giving the line of questioning no further thought, Nowi browsed for a little longer before growing bored. "Frederick, let's go. I want to look around more."

Frederick finished handing the merchant some coins and put his purchase away. "Very well then. We've looked through most of the trinket stalls, so what say you to wandering through the snacks?"

Nowi grinned impishly, not able to help the excitement in her eyes. "Yes, that's just what I need! Come on."

She skipped out of the stall while Frederick dutifully followed. They greeted Libra, who was returning to the inn to organize what he'd found, before entering the heavenly realm of roast meats and delicious sweets.

They spent hours there, Nowi sampling every treat that caught her eye while Frederick took the time to catch up on the local gossip. The talk yielded little useful information, but they at least learned that the routine patrol from Gariel had been sent straight to the border.

Considering the size of Draconis, that likely meant most of their troops were tied up in border protection.

By the time Nowi had her fill, and her stomach sported a slight bulge, the sun was going down. She demanded more than asked for them to return to the inn, but a sight drew her eyes one last time.

"Say, Frederick, does that look like what I think it looks like?"

Frederick followed her gaze, a simple smile gracing his lips. "It looks like a dance competition, and anyone can join. Care to try, or do you fear losing all you ate?"

Nowi glared at him, a haughty smirk rising to life. "Oh, you think I can't dance? Well, teacher mine, why don't we use this as a test? We win, I get to dictate one thing from you of my choice."

Frederick looked down at her, suddenly serious. "And should we lose?"

Nowi gulped, taken aback. "Uh… you dictate it, but don't throw the match!"

Frederick scoffed. "Please, milady, I have my pride. It appears they're looking for another pair to join, if that man imploring every couple is any indication. Shall we?"

Nowi glanced down and saw him offering his arm. She huffed, but took the offer and let him guide her up to the man he had spotted. "Excuse us!"

The man turned, stopping short when he saw Frederick and Nowi. "Oh, uh, would you like to join?"

Frederick smiled. "Indeed we do. Is it too late?"

The man shook his head. "Not at all! If anything, I'm glad you've volunteered. Mack, we have the last contestants!"

Frederick and Nowi blinked at the name, looking to see the same man from that morning standing on a stage and waving at them. "Ah, good! Take the spot over there, we'll start up in a minute! In case you didn't hear, the winning couple gets pick of the goods donated for the contest!"

Frederick and Nowi looked to each other before nodding and taking their spot. They weren't truly dressed for this, what with both of them in their battle attire, but a simple dance would be fine.

The players held their instruments ready, launching into a jaunty tune at a signal from Mack. Frederick and Nowi smiled at the sound of the music, recognizing the rhythm that they'd long used in their lessons.

As they swayed and twirled around the open ground, avoiding the other couples with grace born of practice around absent-minded Shepherds, Frederick decided to voice his thoughts. "So, do I get that talk?"

Nowi frowned, even as she spun under his arm. "See if we win, then I'll decide."

Frederick's frown matched her own and they focused on the dance completely. Turns, steps, even aerials flowing between them as the music ebbed around them.

It was simply them and the contact of their hands, both further than either desired and closer than one ever wanted.

Eventually, it came to an end, a stunned silence greeting the panting couple as they held their final flourish. It soon broke with the sound of applause and Frederick pulled Nowi back up so they could take a bow.

"Wow, that was some dance!" Mack yelled as he jogged up to them, a radiant smile on his face. "Y'all won that hook, line, and sinker. So, come on over and pick your prize, I'll get ya something to quench your throats while you look."

He guided them to a long table with a number of items on them before leaving them to look. Frederik glanced to Nowi and gestured to the table. "What would you like?"

Nowi looked over the items carefully, passing over several earrings, necklaces, and other trinkets before her eyes found a simple silk handkerchief. It was embroidered with green and blue lace and had a number of patterns resembling rivers running through it.

She pointed to it. "I'll take that."

Frederick looked at her in shock, hearing similar whispers coming from the small crowd that had stuck around to see what she picked. "Are you sure? There are much finer items here."

Nowi picked up the cloth and held it out to Frederick, her smirk returning. "Well, let's say you've earned the lady's favor. We'll have that talk when we get back, ok?"

Frederick looked stricken, but he took the cloth from her hand and placed a light kiss on her knuckles. "I would be honored, milady."

Nowi only smiled, even as the crowd cooed at them. Mack chose that moment to return, a pair of pints in hand. "Here you are! I got ya some of the clean stuff, don't want our stars retching on something heavy."

Nowi took the ale gratefully, taking a few gulps. The taste was light and pleasant, her thirst melting away. "Ah, that's good! Come on, Frederick, take a swig!"

Frederick didn't look like he liked the smell of it, but he forced on a polite smile and forced a swig down his throat. "Thank you, Mack. But, I fear we must go back to our inn. The night grows late and we will need to do some actual shopping tomorrow."

Mack shrugged. "Ah, that's fine then. I'll take those mugs though, wouldn't want this ale to go to waste."

He winked at them before happily marching into the crowd again. Nowi took Frederick's arm and leaned her head against his shoulder. "Shall we?"

Frederick nodded and they set off for the inn. It was quiet beyond the stalls, most of the populace taking part in the festivities. Even the inn was quiet, not a sound to be heard when Frederick and Nowi entered the lobby.

Frederick immediately felt a pit open in his stomach. "Libra, Gaius? Vaike? Is anyone there?"

Now that he thought about it, his head felt fuzzy. Like he hadn't slept recently and his body was demanding he lay down and rest.

Nowi swayed side to side. "Hey, Frederick… I'm tired. Can you… carry me to bed, please?"

Frederick's vision grew blurry, his mind struggling to put the pieces together. "Nowi… are you there?"

He didn't hear a response, only what looked like a green mat entering his blurry vision a moment later followed by a dull thud.

Finally, his mind broke the fog long enough to put it together.

They'd been tricked

Sadly, that was his last thought before the drug took full control and forced his mind below the waves of consciousness. As his armored form fell to the floor with a crash, figures surrounded both him and Nowi.

"Looks like the sedative worked. Alright, pack them up with the other two. The Lady wants them in Gariel by tomorrow."

The shadow from earlier sighed as their men set to work binding them. "It's truly disappointing. A paragon of knighthood laid low trying to please a woman."

-Unknown-

When Nowi came to, she felt the cold grip of iron around her wrists and ankles.

Panicked, she fought against the restraints as best she could, but her strength simply was not there. After thrashing for as long as she could, she stopped and panted. Blood pumped in her ears and she could barely make out the sound of rattling chains.

Where am I? What happened?

Nowi's vision slowly cleared and her heart clenched at the sight before her.

An iron door and cold stone, her limbs stuck to chains anchored in the wall.

She was in a prison.

Again.

Nowi felt panic rise in her breast, but she forced it down when she made out voices echoing through the silence.

"…want with her… sister…"

"…nothing…orders…"

The first voice was Frederick, there was no denying it. The other was different, but familiar in the sense that it vaguely sounded like Frederick, if he were a woman. It had that same tone of command and authority.

A scream rent the air and Nowi knew it was Frederick. She struggled against her bonds with a renewed strength, but the iron held strong even as she renewed her ferocity with every scream.

Eventually, the screams stopped and there was only silence. Nowi wasn't sure when she started crying, but she could feel the cold tracks work down her dust encrusted cheeks.

Apprehensive, she gathered her courage and called into the silence. "…Frederick?"

The name echoed through the air, but no response came. Deciding he must not have heard her, Nowi tried again, louder this time. "Frederick?"

Again, silence.

Nowi's panic returned in full force, but a new sound met her ears before she could cry out his name again.

The sound of spurting blood and a body meeting the floor.

Nowi's mind went blank with sheer, primal fear. Her voice flew from her throat, each call growing into a screech.

"Frederick!"

"Frederick!"

"Freddy!"

Ch. End

Man, I'm an evil son of a gun, ain't I?

I gotta run though, the others want my head on a pike.

Here's the old chapter twenty review responses!

Goodralisk: I'm glad you liked it so much! And you're not the only one that thinks that, most everyone on the cast agrees that Severa is far grumpier whenever Lucina's not nearby.

Justkidd: Thank you for putting your thoughts into the review box! Remember, the more I get, the faster I put these out!

Strider Shade: Same as above! Hope you like this one too!

Pkmn2112: I've already PM'd you about this, but thanks for all the help and I hope you enjoy this one!

Warlord40k: It didn't take four people to kill Gangrel, it was two, Cordelia and Sumia left before that fight began. As such, they'll have a bigger role in a final fight later. And yes, I know this pacing is very fast. But I can't stop the train once its moving so I can only hope the chapters continue to entertain.

Andre the kid: Welcome to the show! Hope you've enjoyed this one just as much as the other's!

That's everything, bye!

*Flees like the coward he is*