Anje placed her hand on the leather sack, touching it to keep it secure. It had only been a few days since Chrom had ordered the Shepherds to depart from Ylisse to Regna Ferox on a diplomatic mission. The weather had been fair at first, but with each proceeding day, Anje grew silently more disquieted by her surroundings. The sunny days had transformed into a frigid overcast that seemed to only pick up as hints of hail and snow could be felt occasionally. It was beginning to remind her too much of home.

The group had only one encounter with the risen; the second day on the road. Anje hated the insipid creatures, which made killing them all the easier. They were a perfect target for her rage that had been bubbling within her stomach since learning more of this strange world. With magic, flying horses, and seemingly endless possibilities, it soothed the former acrobat to simply drive a knife into the creatures' rotting flesh. It was simple and straightforward.

Soft snow began the crunch underneath Anje's feet. She slowed her stride to observe the frostbitten dirt path. Have we really traveled that far north? Anje thought, Or is this just how this world works?

"You're slowing down my dear!" Virion said, patting Anje on the shoulder as he gracefully walked by. "Are you feeling ill, or is it perhaps you are captivated by the majesty of the beautiful snowflakes?"

"Snow isn't beautiful, it's cold and gets in the way," Anje huffed as she increased her pace. The snow was always the precedent for hard times from a lack of food and warmth. A reminder of her childhood days that she longed to distance herself from.

Virion hummed for a moment before shrugging. "I suppose that's one way to see it. Snow does have the habit of overstaying its welcome in Regna Ferox from what I've been told. Snow from where I'm from is light and fluffy, while this is much icier and sharp to the touch."

"I figured it would be chilly, but exciting! Plus there is the wall!" Sumia said. The petite pegasi rider's travel pack jingled loudly as she trotted up to Virion and Anje. Her grace outside of battle baffled Anje, as she half suspected that Sumia's little act was a plot. Or perhaps merely a lack of focus.

"Chrom said it was a giant wall. Hardly that impressive," Anje remarked. "Lots of people build walls. Big ones too."

Sumia tugged on Belfire's reins. She had decided to travel on foot today to try and not get Belfire's wings cold and not get shot down by any random bandit archers that may be patrolling the northern roads. The horse was ornery and elegant, though the wings still consistently caught Anje off guard when she would glance at the well-groomed alabaster steed. Still hard to believe it had warmed up to Sumia in only a couple of days.

"Yeah, but it's the wall!" Sumia said, playfully nudging Anje in the shoulder. The blonde tensed up and sharply inhaled, but said nothing. "You've got to be a little excited to see one of the wonders of Archanea?"

"Not in the slightest," Anje dryly replied. "I'm sure it's big, gray, and full of soldiers."

Sumia's expression deflated a bit as Virion loudly cleared his throat. "I believe what Anje is alluding to is she would rather see the other cultural wonders of Ferox. Like fighting or dancing." Virion took out a handkerchief from his breast pocket and lightly dabbed away the snowflakes that had settled on his forehead. "I know that's where my interests lie. Besides, I've heard Feroxi women are quite salacious and bold."

Sumia frowned and crossed her arms, regarding the archer skeptically. "Is that all you think about, Virion? Women?"

"I occasionally think about men too, but usually only the pretty ones," Virion said.

"T-that is n-not what I-" Sumia stammered as her cheeks turned a shade of crimson.

Anje smiled and giggled under her breath. "I think that's much more entertaining. How are they dressed, Virion?"

"Half-naked to naked to my understanding."

"Is that for the fighters or the dancers?" Anje asked, still smiling at the display of a red-faced Sumia trying to control her breathing.

Virion cracked a smirk. "Yes."

"I'm not sure what I can say to that," Sumia mumbled, settling down from her fit. Belfire trotted up and nuzzled against her neck, managing to get a squeak from her. "Stop it, you! Your tongue is so rough and wet!"

Virion sighed. "It's like you're inviting me to make more base commentary, my sweet carnation. Fortunately, I'm above such low hanging fruit."

"Yeah, but I'm not," Anje said. "I'm sure if the dancers are naked, there will be more wet and rough tongues to go around."

Anje could swear steam was escaping from Sumia's ears as her frozen expression was nearly the shade of her riding armor. Virion and Anje's light chuckling cut short as Chrom shouted up ahead. Anje had made a point to be near the back as it meant she'd be away from Frederick and Miriel. Miriel because magic still seemed insane and dangerous and Frederick because of his everything. Merely thinking about the man threatened to instantly sour the acrobat's mood.

"Could you repeat that?" Virion shouted back. He motioned for the group to catch up as he jogged ahead, hands hovering near his stowed bow.

Sumia ambled up to Belfire and mounted her stead who shook some of the snow off his wings. Anje looked over curiously, her eyes darting between Virion and Sumia.

"Hey, would you like to ride-"

"Yes," Anje quickly replied. She darted around the steed and nimbly hopped up onto the saddle, fitting snuggly behind Sumia.

"Most people are usually a bit more apprehensive about joining a pegasus rider," Sumia mused. "Is this your first time?"

"It is, but I'm not afraid of heights." Anje smiled as Sumia glanced over her shoulder.

Besides, being up here keeps me away from all the others, Anje idly mused as Belfire's wings began to kick up dirt and snow.

Anje felt a fluttering rush through her chest as the magnificent beast lifted into the snowy air, kicking up more of the frozen dirt around. She couldn't fight away the child-like grin as Sumia held the reins tightly and expertly maneuvered Belfire through the gaps in the treeline, and out into the open sky. The air was cold but fresh, and the rest of the Shepherds looked like tiny little ants on the path below, shrinking more and more as Belfire gained more altitude.

"You doing okay back there?" Sumia shouted. Anje securely wrapped her arms around the knight's waist, pressing the side of her head against the cold armor. "Just let me know if you are freaked out! Lots of people get frazzled on their first ride."

"I'm fine!" Anje shouted through the frigid air, her voice almost being lost in the wind. "Keep going!"

Anje couldn't believe such a creature of mythic proportions could maneuver so casually, slipping through air currents and gliding around like a graceful dancer on the wind. There was a serenity to the movements that felt natural, and even looking down at the frosted landscape gave her no pause. Freedom, Anje thought as she peered over the side of the mount, her adrenaline overriding her need to shiver. This must be why Sumia rides and craves this experience. To fly away from all your fears and problems, and for it to just be you and the open sky.

Sumia reigned in Belfire to a hover, similar to treading water except with the rhythmic beat of giant pegasi wings. "Do you see it?" Sumia pointed northward. "It's difficult through the snow, but you can see the Feroxi wall up ahead. On foot, they should reach within the hour."

"How can you tell?" Anje asked.

"I've been riding for a while, and you eventually get a feel for the distances," Sumia explained, continuing to point at various landmarks amongst the thickets of trees and the rolling hills dusted with frost. "My job is to serve as a secondary long-distance scout. While someone on the ground is watching nearby for bandits, I'm usually up here looking for things out in the distance." Anje swore she could hear a subtle giggle underneath the sound of Belfire's thrumming wings. "Plus, it's just nice up here. Gives you time to think, you know?"

Anje could hardly disagree as she found herself nodding to Sumia's words. "It is nice. How you maneuver up here is an art itself. Perhaps I was wrong about you."

Sumia looked over her shoulder. "Wrong? What do you mean?"

"I thought you were some stuffy knight that had been sheltered," Anje admitted. She paused as she noticed Sumia's expression falter. "But, I know that's not the case. I can see why you fly up here. It's the opposite of being beholden to people. It's freedom. This is your domain. It's the same reason I enjoy dancing and acrobatics. It's a stage that you don't need to share with anybody."

"I m-mean." Sumia blushed furiously, nearly bobbling the reigns. "Maybe that's right. I don't know. I'm not always alone, since there is a pegasi riders division, but thank you. I think if you said more things like that people would think you're kinder."

"Who said I'm not kind?" Anje asked with a dangerous edge to her tone. "I want names."

"Oh-uh, nobody! Silly me! Just saying random things again! I must-"

"Sumia," Anje chuckled, "I'm joking. I don't care. Let them think what they want. They'll either come around to appreciate me or not. I would prefer it to be one over the other, but that's just it; I value my freedom, and I want them to do the same. Be like the wind, and roam without care."

"So you were kidding about the names?"

Anje gripped Sumia's waist tighter, managing to get a squeak out of the pink armored rider. "Maybe. But now I know some think less of me. More people to prove wrong."

Sumia forcefully laughed, much to the point Anje rolled her eyes. "I think we've scouted enough! Let's go meet the others!" Sumia stammered as she tugged on the reins, motioning Belfire into a slow gliding descent.

Going back to the other Shepherds didn't appeal to Anje in the slightest, but the cold was starting to chill her fingers. Curiosity and quiet contemplation overtook her as she pondered who was speaking ill of her, but that paled in comparison to her other more pressing thoughts.

How do I get one of these flying horses for myself?

Anje let out a long exasperated gasp as she removed her dagger from a Feroxi guard's ribs. Yes, Chrom told the Shepherds not to harm anyone fatally, but when they are bent on killing you there would be some accidents. Anje flicked the blood off her dagger, giving the cold cobblestone steps a new macabre paint job.

If I get my hands around that woman's neck before Chrom can see me. Anje's hands trembled with anger and trepidation. The fact that a simple border guard captain couldn't recognize a foreign leader baffled Anje. Let alone Chrom saw fit to play 'soldier' with his merry band throughout the countryside, the notion struck Anje as odd to have the border post immediately be hostile. Where was the shakedown? The interrogation? Frederick had said they were barbarous, and while she'd seldom agree with the knight, she was inclined to agree here.

"We need to pave a way to the upper battlements!" Chrom shouted. He quickly parried a spearman by knocking the weapon to the side and stomping on the spear. Anje smiled as the splinters seemed to explode out of the weapon's haft as the defeated Feroxi soldier thrust his arms out in defeat.

"Don't let them proceed!" A soldier shouted from the battlements.

Anje grunted as she kicked the archer's corpse down the western staircase, the body nearly colliding with Robin who hopped over it. Robin watched briefly as the body tumbled into the snowy courtyard before looking back to Anje. She shrugged as Robin jogged up the stairs, his oversized clothing making him have to take larger steps to avoid getting tangled.

"Sorry about the mess, I know Chrom didn't want casualties," Anje said, though her voice remained curt and even. An apology purely for apology's sake.

Robin smiled, showing a bit too many teeth like someone who had not practiced enough of the art. A smile could be comforting in the right situation, but here it unnerved Anje as she tried not to grimace at the tactician's attempts at reassurance.

And Virion calls me awkward…

"No need to apologize, I already accounted for the variability of everyone's mortality figures before the battle started. You are in the higher percentile, but you're still within acceptable parameters as to what could be excused under Chrom's orders," Robin explained.

"Great," Anje replied, not sure of what Robin meant. "Could you stop smiling at least? You're freaking me out?"

"Lissa told me people are comforted when people smile," Robin mused, his face morphing back into a neutral expression. "I really wish I hadn't forgotten so much." Robin snapped his fingers and whispered something quick and unintelligible under his breath, and then looked back up to Anje. "Just more research I suppose. We shall use formation and stratagem Z-4 up ahead as I have an inkling to what the enemy formation will be, do you comply?"

"Uhhh, just tell me where to stand and who to hit," Anje replied. She wanted to say more but thought against it. Whether Robin was a genius or insane made little difference if his weird ideas led them to victory.

Robin nodded, gesturing for Anje to lead. "I'll be right behind you. Specifically ten meters, or what I like to think of as two 'squares of threatened space'. You may call-wait why are you already going up?"

"Because we need to fight, and my brain can't handle your nerd talk. Save it for Miriel or someone else who cares."

Robin brought his hand up to his chin, contemplating the last of Anje's words. "...An excellent suggestion. Lead on!"

Anje rushed up the stairs to the upper battlements, seeing several archers learning over the ledges trying to fire upon Chrom and some of the other shepherds that hadn't gone up the eastern staircase. Behind the archers posted in front of a large wooden door, she could see the foolish woman from before; the captain of the Fexoi soldiers, barking orders at her guards.

Anje readied her dagger and crouched low. "Alright, time to go-

A hand had grabbed Anje by the wrist, and she turned back to see Robin holding her back. "If you intend to charge, which I predicted, I advise you to move northwest by exactly five meters. It will not draw out the other guard to attack you while Sully, Miriel, and Virion ambush from the other side."

Yanking her wrist free from Robin's surprisingly sure grip, Anje nodded. "Fine. Are you going to tell me how to stab too?"

"Would you like me too? I have a number of suggestions-" Robin's mouth made an 'o' as he observed Anje's glare. "I see that was sarcasm."

"No shit. So are you going to do the weird magicky thing and back me up or not?" Anje said.

Robin withdrew his pale green book, and lightning began to crackle from the fingertips of his right hand. Anje paled a bit at the display of power, before turning away. "Of course. All part of the plan," Robin said. "Now get out there and do your thing. We already are at a 71 percent win chance with no casualties and rising so I don't see why-oh, and you're gone."

Anje stayed low and crept up on the distracted lancer who had his attention fully concentrated on the eastern staircase. Vaike served as a great distraction with his hoots and hollers. She smirked as Robin's voice petered out in the frigid wind.

In a sudden jerking motion, and squelching sound of the blade finding the gap between helmet and armor, Anje buried the dagger into the unsuspecting lancer's neck. A nearby archer turned around just in time to have a large bolt of lightning impact his chest, sending him careening over the battlements. Anje glanced over her shoulder to see Robin looking at her with a much too eager smile on his face, giving her a thumbs up.

Still creepy. Even if it is helpful.

The soldier in Anje's arms flailed his arms briefly, but she had delivered the knife into the core of the jugular vein. Blood spewed forth as she released his limp body, landing softly in the snow-packed ground.

A large gust of wind billowed through the upper battlements as the guard captain readied her spear as Sumia descended from the cloudy sky with Chrom riding on the rear of the saddle, Falchion held high and pointing at the guard captain.

Anje caught her breath as the two exchanged words. Chrom hopped off of Belfire and engaged the heavily armored woman in melee combat, showcasing his superior speed and power as he used Falchion more as a large club to swat away the woman's spear. While heavily protected from strikes in her armor, she couldn't outmaneuver Chrom as he stepped inside her guard to deliver a brutal pommel strike to her face. She stumbled back a step while Chrom kicked the spear from her hands before pressing Falchion to the warrior's throat.

"Then your claims were...true…" The woman huffed as her eyes flickered towards Chrom's shoulder brand.

"Tell your men to stop fighting, and then we can continue," Chrom ordered, still holding Falchion to the woman's throat. "I'm sorry this had to come to bloodshed."

Robin walked over to Anje, arms crossed in front of him with a sense of satisfaction. "And the plan worked just like I thought it would."

"You planned to have Chrom fly on Sumia's mount and then have him duel the guard captain in an almost embarrassing fashion?" Anje asked skeptically.

Robin shrugged. "It was a possible deviation from my fourth plan of attack. It didn't register high, but it was still accounted for. Good job by the way in staying under the estimated mortality range I estimated you'd put out."

"Your welcome?"

Robin nodded and walked toward Chrom where many of the other Shepherds had begun gathering around. Anje crossed her arms and shivered. Well, looks like if we hit the barbarians enough they listen to reason, Anje mused as she noticed Virion jog over to her.

"A bit chilly my lovely?" Virion said, wiping some blood splatter from his cheek with a white handkerchief. "Quite the introduction to Regna Ferox, wouldn't you say?"

"As long as the woman isn't a representation of the rest of the people that live here," Anje grumbled. She and Virion began to walk past the remaining soldiers tending to their dead and wounded, Anje and a few guards exchanging cold glares. It's not my fault they're dead. Better them than me.

"I think we've deserved some tea and blankets, don't you think?" Virion mused as the pair shuffled into the rear of the group of Shepherds entering the fort. "I'm curious to see what platters they might bring."

"As long as it's something warm, I'm interested," Anje replied. She glanced one more time looking over her shoulder at some of the guards looking over the last soldier. One looked to be quietly weeping.

Anje felt her bottom lip tremble, but bit down hard on it and turned away. I'm not that scared little girl in the circus anymore. It was me or them, Anje told herself. This wasn't like fighting the Risen. It felt too real, and the rush of battle was gone far too quickly and replaced by another less welcome feeling. She ground her teeth as she marched past the threshold of the fort, warm and stale air meeting her skin. Despite the warm air, she still felt cold.

The leaders of the Shepherds met with Khan Flavia while the rest of the rank and file waited in a large common room within Longfort. Anje kept herself occupied with simple knife tricks as the rest of the Shepherds waited to hear the news.

The fort itself was well insulated with large pelts covering the walls, gleaming weapons mounted, and sturdy and practical furniture. A spartan room and tone fit for those of a warrior's culture. Anje didn't mind it; she'd rather take practical over frilly any day, though she had no doubts many of the Shepherds would disagree. Despite being soldiers, she saw many of them as dandys.

The large double doors to the conference room swung open, revealing Chrom at the forefront with Khan Flavia close behind him. Robin and Frederick could be seen behind them as well, looking stern and composed. Anje huffed and quickly sheathed her knife. There was work to be done now.

Khan Flavia, a blonde-haired tanned woman with impressive musculature and height rivaling the already impressive Chrom stood confidently in her slightly dinged up red and white plated cuirass. The armor was clean, but as Anje peered she noticed that the superficial damage on the armor was most likely intentional. Reminders of one's hardships and mistakes.

"Attention Shepherds!" Chrom shouted, immediately garnering the attention of the entire common room. "We've come to an accord to gain the Khan's help with Plegia. I shall be entering the arena contest against Khan Basilio's champion. Each side is permitted five adjuncts along with the champion." Chrom steps aside, allowing Robin to amble to the front. "He has compiled a team."

Robin scanned the room briefly before taking out a piece of parchment. "Those who will be joining Chrom in the arena are me, Frederick, Sully, Stahl, and Lissa. All named shall immediately go to the training room to work on tactics, while the rest of you are encouraged to join us, you may explore the fort and rest from the journey. The tournament is tomorrow within the main arena, and we expect you all to show up." Robin rolled up the parchment, handing it to Frederick. "How was that for 'authoritative'?"

"It was exceptional," Frederick noted as he took the parchment and placed it inside his pant pocket. "You heard our tactician, let's move to the practice arena."

Anje sighed. It wasn't any surprise that the leading Shepherds would play favorites with the natives and those who had spent the longest time with them. She clenched her fist and let out another deep breath. It's fine, it's just Frederick picking and choosing. Like children playing ball.

Anje watched Virion and Miriel follow the combatant group out into the main hall, seemingly deep in conversation. What could he possibly want with that witch? Anje thought as she tapped her foot against the ground. Her closest confidant would be at the practice arena, and despite wanting to explore with Virion she'd much rather avoid being near Miriel and Frederick. Already embarrassing enough to not get chosen to compete in the first place.

Anje looked around the room at the remaining Shepherds. Was there anybody else to talk with that wouldn't drive her insane? There was Sumia, but she was currently speaking with the Khan. That only left-

"Hey, blondie!"

The loud one. Vaike.

Anje rolled her eyes as she kept a guarded posture as the raucous nearly half-dressed warrior jogged up to her. Certainly, he was a bit easy on the eyes with his exposed torso showing off muscles that reflected hours of training, but his attitude spoke volumes of his personality. Not to mention his actual volume, as Anje would wince slightly when the man would suddenly say something that came to mind when they traveled up on the trail.

"Ey, The Vaike is talking to ya, missy!" Vaike hollered as he placed himself in front of Anje, legs shoulder-width apart.

As if I could mistake you for talking to anybody else.

"I can see that, Vaike. What do you want?" Anje said, eyes still lingering on the tail end of the group exiting for the training grounds.

"To fight, obviously," Vaike snorted, resting his arms behind his head. Anje took note of his flexed biceps and sighed. He was showing off. While she could understand wanting to show off, the posturing here didn't impress her as she idly shook her head.

"And why would I spend time embarrassing Chrom's shadow?" Anje taunted, glancing past Vaike to check on Sumia. She was still talking to the Khan. Perhaps she would take her on another ride on Belfire?

Vaike stepped up closer to Anje, mere inches from her face. "You saying The Vaike ain't good enough for ya?" He cracked his knuckles, and Anje struggled to keep a straight face as his breath smelling of beef and potatoes hit her face. "Ole' Freddy says you're talented, and I wanna see for myself."

Frederick said that? Anje mused, looking toward the door again to perhaps see Frederick, but the group had already left. Why would he have any kind of praise for me? Is it some kind of joke?

Anje clicked her tongue. He was mocking her. Trying to goad her into fighting by throwing her off. Anje smiled as she returned her focus to Vaike's intense and eager expression. It'd be rude not to indulge him, wouldn't it?

"You said you wanted to fight?"

"Heck yes, let's do this! I've been waitin' for-"

Vaike didn't finish as a loud crack echoed through the room. A thin trail of blood was smeared upon Anje forehead as Vaike stumbled back holding his nose, eyes wide.

"Did you jus' headbu-"

Another hard thud echoed through the common room as Anje booted foot met Vaike's face in a quick roundhouse kick. To his credit he didn't fall to the ground as he stumbled again, barely keeping his footing. Anje glanced over to Sumia and Flavia, who both had stopped their conversation to look at the action. Sumia looked ready to intervene, but Anje held her hand out. Flavia grabbed onto Sumia's shoulder and whispered something as Vaike began to get his bearings, another crackle emitting from his face as his hand hovered near his nose.

Did he really just reset his broken nose? Anje thought, mildly impressed. Maybe he was more than just someone who flailed around with an axe. He could also double as a punching bag.

Vaike let out a chuckle, rotating his arms as if to stretch them. "I was askin' for that I s'pose. Good thing you hit like a daisy."

"I broke your nose, dumbass."

"Ey! Lotta people have broken The Vaike's nose! It ain't nothin'!"

"We fighting, or talking about how badly I'm going to break that nose of yours again?" Anje said, settling into a narrow fighting stance. Light and quick. If she survived lion taming at the circus, then avoiding a muscled jock shouldn't prove much of a challenge she hoped.

Vaike assumed a wider slightly staggered stance with his hands out. He wants to grab me, Anje considered as she tensed her leg muscles. If his technique was anything to go off of; it's a lot of power in a straightforward fashion. It's like the man has never heard of finesse or grace.

Vaike lunged for Anje with a quick yet visibly telegraphed movement. Anje slid to the side of Vaike, letting him pass by her like a charging bull. She went to kick at his ankle to trip him up but nearly flipped herself in the process as she stumbled back.

Is he made of rocks?

Vaike charged all the way to the wall, pushing off it and turning around like a swimmer doing laps. "You ain't the first to try and trip The Vaike! Now C'mere so I can teach ya a lesson!"

One of Anje's blonde strands of hair dangled in front of her face loosed from her ponytail. She resumed her agile stance, blowing the stray hair out of her vision. "Bring it."

The blonde fighters this time both rushed each other, both seeking to do damage. Anje didn't step to the side as she watched Vaike's eyes widen as he crouched forward to try and grapple her legs. His neck snapped back as his face met Anje's bony knee, followed by a quick blow from her elbow delivered to his face. Another crack resounded from Vaike's face, but this one sounded more like someone stepping on dry leaves than a snap.

Vaike mumbled something under his breath as he held his ground and grabbed Anje by the wrist and waist, weathering another knee to the gut. Anje grit her teeth as Vaike's grip held her firm as he lifted her into the air and heaved her over his shoulder, vaulting her like a ragdoll.

Anje collided with the wooden wall, shoulder first; the one Vaike nearly charged into moments earlier. She hissed in pain, but nothing felt dislocated, though it would probably leave a nasty bruise. Scrambling back to her feet and positioning, she could hear Vaike charging her once again.

Time slowed for her as she pivoted to the side, barely ducking underneath Vaike's grasp and grabbing the back of his chained harness. She used Vaike's incredible momentum to guide him headfirst into the wooden wall. Splinters erupted as Vaike's noggin made a hole, sticking completely through the hardwood.

"Mind the property!" Flavia called out, her hand still firmly on Sumia's shoulder who looked desperate to intervene.

Vaike tried to pull his head out, but with a grunt and two tries to dislodge himself still found his head stuck in the hole. "Alright, we'll call this one a draw for now," Vaike's muted voice echoed from within the wall. "Mind helping ole Teach out?"

Anje sighed and rolled her damaged shoulder. She was surprised he barely flinched at being hit, let alone tossed her like she weighed nothing, granted Anje knew she didn't weigh much anyway. "Fine, but take back what you said and I'll help you out."

"The daisy bit?"

"Mhmmm."

Vaike laughed. "Sure. You hit like a really strong daisy. Better?"

Anje giggled and positioned her hands around Vaike's shoulders. "Fine, I'll take it." With a 'pop' Vaike head came free from the hole, shaking his head and brushing off splinters.

"Much appreciated," Vaike said. "So, you want to get some grub or something? All this action has got me starved."

"Are you two insane?" Sumia cried out as Flavia released her hand from the pegasus rider. "I thought you two were going to kill each other!"

"It was jus' a little fight," Vaike sheepishly replied, rubbing the back of his head. "Ain't nothin' to get worried 'bout."

Anje nodded in agreement. She did feel a bit better and relaxed than she had been before. The tense animosity toward Frederick that had settled over her head like a storm cloud was gone, and the arena fight seemed so...distant now. Maybe Vaike had a point to just needing to fight.

Sumia shook her head, a disapproving look etched upon her face as she looked between Anje and Vaike. "Seriously, maybe give me a little warning?"

Flavia clapped as she approached. A wry smile upon her face. "Not bad kids. Ferox has a way of bringing out people's warrior spirit." She flashed a predatory grin at the group. "Almost jumped in there myself. Meetings can be so boring."

"I think that did help though. I feel a bit better," Anje said, patting Vaike on the shoulder. "Not to mention I look better than you too."

"Whatever girly, you jus' jealous of The Vaike's resilience!"

"I broke your nose. Twice."

"Yeah, and what of it? I tossed you into a wall and you almos' crumpled up like a rock."

Sumia made a strange face and turned to Vaike. "Um, I don't think rocks do that…"

Vaike waved her off. "You know what I meant. So we gettin' grub or what?"

Flavia's arms seemed to encompass the entire group into a hug. Anje looked over her shoulder, confused. How did she reach around all of us?

"I think some food would be delicious. Ain't nothing like some food after a good fight, and Feroxi food will keep you warm and ready to go," Flavia said.

Anje nodded. "Sure, what's the food like?"

"Well, it would be rude to turn down a meal with a foreign leader," Sumia mumbled as a slight blush made its way onto her cheeks as she inched her face away from Flavia's grinning visage.

"The Vaike requires meat and mead!"

Flavia released the three Shepherds, each letting out a puff of air from her tight grasp. "Follow me, I'm sure the cooks already got some stuff in the feasting hall. Plus, my company is probably waiting."

"Well, we wouldn't want to intrude..." Sumia slowly said as she began inching away from the group.

"Nonsense! I'm sure Basilio has brought someone, so he wouldn't mind me bringing someone else along," Flavia announced as she grabbed Sumia's hand, managing to get an 'eep!' sound from the pink plated pegasi rider. "C'mon, it ain't that far."

Flavia strode ahead dragging Sumia along behind her. The rider mouthed the words 'help me' to Anje and Vaike, but both simply smiled and waved at her.

"Talk about luck. Already besties with the Khan," Vaike mused as Anje walked side by side with him after Flavia and her human luggage. "I swear Sumia has got it all sometimes."

"She's certainly sweet," Anje replied as she passed through the threshold into a long torchlit hallway. "The Khan seems interesting for a leader of people who only care about fighting."

"They care about more than jus' fightin'," Vaike said, shaking his head as if the answer was obvious. "The Feroxi also care about drinking, eatin', and partying."

Anje smirked. "Think there will be any naked dancers at the dinner?"

Vaike chuckled and patted Anje roughly on the back, nearly knocking her over. "If we're lucky, girly."

Anje found Feroxi food to be tasty and refreshingly similar to home. Meat wrapped in bread, more meat on skewers, potatoes cakes with cabbage garnish, and dark alcohol to wash it all down. Food that would make anybody blimp up if they weren't fighting every chance they got. Still, Anje had to admit it was an upgrade to the food she had in Ylisse. Here in Regna Ferox they actually used seasoning.

"And that's when I ripped the guy's eye out and jammed it down his throat! Ha! You should have seen the look on his face," Basilio chortled as he gestured with a dripping hunk of meat. "Best vacation I've ever had."

Basilio, the hulking man with an eyepatch, proved to be what Anje expected out of a Feroxi at this point; bold, loud, and intense. She rather liked how direct everyone was, as these people didn't act like high and mighty nobles. They too were out on the front lines getting dirt underneath their nails. People who actually saw what life was like, unlike Chrom who went and played vigilante, or Emmeryn who seemed to sit in her castle.

Anje smiled at Basilio's story as she looked over to his quiet tag along. The light-skinned man wore a wool coat and still had a sword attached to his hip, despite it being dinner time. He hadn't said a word since introducing himself as 'Lon'Qu', and he seemed resolute to keep it that way.

"I've heard that one before, you dull oaf," Flavia chided as he took a bit of potato cake. "You're just trying to show off for the newbies."

"Oh, and can you blame me?" Basilio said. "It's a great story, right Lon'Qu?"

Lon'Qu simply nodded his head and took a sip from his cup. Even when prompted he remains quiet. Weird. Anje thought as she took a sip from her own cup.

The alcohol was strong, but she managed to fight down the fiery liquid. She looked over to Sumia whose face was quite flush from finishing her first cup so quickly, much to Flavia's insistence. Vaike seemed perfectly content with all the finger food and listening to the Khan's stories while putting in his thoughts. If she didn't know better, she'd figure Vaike to be part of their crew and not a Shepherd.

"Let's get down to the real issue here," Flavia announced as she set down her cup. "You've got a new fighter, as we know it's custom that they be training right now." She gestured at Lon'Qu who seemed to wilt a bit under her gaze. "That's why you brought him. Don't play coy."

"Oh, I have a new champion alright. Someone who is going to keep my winning streak alive and well. Walloped poor Lon here in thirty seconds flat." Basilio grinned and leaned over the table. "They're going to cream whoever you've got."

Flavia smirked and leaned back in her chair. "Oh, I wouldn't be so sure. My champion has got quite a resume and standing. Something a Khan's champion has never had on their side. Exalted bloodline."

Basilio nearly spat out his drink. Anje and Vaike chuckled as the Khan wiped his face quickly; his singular eye inquisitively looking at the smug Flavia up and down. "You telling me you nabbed royalty?"

"You ain't so old you've lost your hearing now, have you?"

"It's true!" Vaike piped up. "Lord Chrom is going to wipe the floor with whoever your champ is!"

"Ha! Exalted bloodline or not, I've not seen a warrior as good as my champion in years-no, decades!"

"I think I'm full, may I be excused?" Sumia softly said. Flavia nodded to the rider, who quickly departed, but not before pausing by Anje's seat. "Would you like to leave the Khans to their business? I think Belfire needs some food and grooming."

"I'll meet you out there," Anje said, "I'm almost done."

Anje and Sumia exchanged a smile as the rider left the dining area, as Anje returned her attention to the Khan's discussion. She'd been around high rollers and important people before in the circus, back when her life made sense, yet she had never encountered anything like these two. Rival leaders who were drinking pals. It was fascinating and caused her to wonder why couldn't everyone at least try this. No silly politics or lies; just fists, mead, and revelry. It felt right. It felt like-

"So, you two," Flavia said, gesturing to Vaike and Anje. "You're part of the Shepherds, but I've heard how you two fought on the battlements against my guards, not to mention that little brawl. How are you liking the Shepherds?"

"It's like a family to me. Me and ole' Chrom go way back," Vaike happily said. "Ain't nothin' like helping the little guys."

"And you?" Flavia asked, her attention squarely on Anje.

Anje felt a heat within her chest. Was she nervous, or was it just the alcohol? A deep breath. "I'm still...new to it all. I'm not really from around here, and I'm still figuring out things."

"What about joining my group of warriors?" Flavia suggested with a warm smile. "I can see how you handle yourself and throw a punch. So why not?"

"Trying to recruit underneath the prince's nose?" Basilio chuckled. "Awfully bold, Flavia."

Anje looked to Vaike, who was oddly quiet and focused on her. Flavia was smiled but seemed expectant of an answer. The kind of posture a parent would take with a child making a decision. "I-" Anje paused. It was a good offer. Great perhaps considering how quickly the Feroxi had changed her mind about them. Not the savages Frederick made them out to be. They were free people. Then her mind shifted to Vaike.

She didn't care much what Vaike thought, though she was slightly fond of the jock. He had a natural charm about him, and he was direct. She liked that. But what about Sumia? Not having more chances to ride and perhaps get a pegasus of her own worried her. Her debt to Virion still hung over her head, despite him brushing off his kindness. Lastly, she needed answers about that letter. Why she was here in the first place. Why she wasn't dead.

I should be dead, Anje mused as the Khan's eyed her curiously. Still, it's tempting.

"I'll think about it," Anje slowly said. She hated being indecisive, but there was one last thing to check before answering.

She'd need to talk with Virion. Make up the kindness he had shown her or get him to come along. A place to belong and feel at home in this strange world. Leaving the circus had granted her freedom, but now she craved purpose. The right to choose and that meant settling any remaining tethers to others.

"Thank you for dinner," Anje said as she stood up from her seat. "I'll let you know by tomorrow."

"Good, because I don't hand out these offers lightly," Flavia said in a clipped tone. "Now run along. Do what you must, but know this. You got the eyes of a Feroxi."

Anje frowned. "We hardly look anything alike."

"Sure," Flavia laughed with Basilio chuckling along. "Not what I was saying. Look at Lon. Look at me. We all got that look. You know the one." She picked up her cup and shooed Anje toward the door. "Now get going. I'll see you at the match tomorrow."

Anje quickly departed the dining hall, avoiding the awkward stares from Vaike. She didn't know if he'd tattle that she was considering leaving for a better-suited gig. Sumia would still be near the stables with Belfire.

Let's hope a ride will clear my thoughts.

A/N: Greetings folks, another brief update since I've managed to sneak in the time. With my other long fic in the last editing stage before the big finale, I decided to give myself a break by doing more writing lol. Insanity, I know. Also, I wasn't as thorough with edits since I didn't run this by my beta, just ole' me.

Anyways, thank you all for the wonderful feedback, and let me know what else you either like/dislike about the story, characters, etc. as I'm still messing with 3rd person limited past tense PoV as opposed to what I've written in the past year. The transition is weird but feels good.

As per usual if want to find more quality fics in the FE genre or a place to improve your writing check out Fanfiction Treehouse discord . gg / 9XG3U7a I can be found here under my normal user name, so come by and say hi!

Have a good day!