The cold evening air graced Anje's exposed forearms as the heavy wooden door opened up. The night sky was clear and the stars and moon shined brightly. Small puffs of smoke could be seen around the stone battlements, marking little fires for the guards on duty trying to fight off the biting cold.

Anje marched across the stone courtyard toward the stable, where she saw Sumia brushing Belfire. The magnificent white pegasus held perfectly still as his rider gently took the large bristled brush down his neck, the great beast's wings twitching every so often. Anje smiled at the display as she walked up to the pair.

"Easy, big guy," Sumia cooed as she stroked Belfire's main. The pegasus moved a bit as Anje approached, drawing Sumia's attention. "Ah, good to see you. Take it you've had your fill of Feroxi hospitality?"

Anje returned Sumia's smile, though it felt forced. "Sure, uh-yeah I guess you could say that." Anje shifted up to Sumia and Belfire, petting the pegasus gingerly. "Can I ask you something?"

Sumia blushed. "Uh-yeah. I-I mean, of course, you can."

"Why the Shepherds?" Anje asked. "What keeps you bound to doing this work? Would you ever go anywhere else?"

"That's a...difficult question," Sumia hummed, her brushing slowing. "Well, it's because I like helping people."

"Lots of ways to help people," Anje said. She continued with stroke Belfire's long ashen colored mane. "Plenty less dangerous ways too, I figure. But why follow the prince around who likes to play 'hero'?"

"He doesn't play 'hero', Anje." Sumia let out a sigh and set the grooming brush aside. Shaking the build-up of snowflakes from her brunette hair, Sumia looked back to the acrobat pensively. "Do you...not like this?"

Anje sighed. "It's not that I don't like this, it's that I don't really get it." Anje glanced over to Sumia's hurt expression. Why do her looks make me feel guilty? Anje rolled her shoulders, focusing back on Belfire. "It just seems...weird. I don't know. Doesn't your country have a military? Why does your leader let her brother run through the countryside like some silly folk hero? Even listening to him is-"

"Please stop," Sumia said softly. "I know you may not see eye to eye with many of those in the Shepherds, but I cannot stress enough that Chrom is a good man. He is trying to make the place a brighter place. He gives the Ylissean people hope. He gives the Shepherds hope with his gallant acts."

"What happens when that hope goes away?" Anje whispered. She wasn't looking at Belfire anymore, her eyes transfixed somewhere beyond the great pale steed. Swallowing hard, Anje tried to steady her voice as another gust of icy wind blew into her face. "Giving people hope just makes it hurt more in the end when they're gone. I don't believe in heroes, Sumia. That girl hasn't been around for many years. I just want to be somewhere that makes sense, as I feel lost all over again."

Sumia placed her gloved hand on Anje shoulder. "Talk to me about it then. I'm not sure how things were in your country, but you can trust in the Shepherds. We look out for each other. The world isn't all that bad, and we are making it better."

"Can we just go for a ride?" Anje stressed. Her glassy blue eyes met Sumia's own, but only for a moment as Anje looked back at Belfire. "I'd just rather...not think about things for a bit."

"Yeah." Sumia nodded and gave Belfire a push to get him out of the stable. "But you'll tell me later, right?"

Anje hesitated. "Y-yeah. Sure."

Anje took in a deep breath. Don't give me hope, Sumia. I just want answers to why.

"Good. Gimme a boost?" Sumia asked.

Anje knelt beside Belfire, interlacing her fingers in front of her. Sumia backed up and gave Anje a nod before starting a little run with Anje lifting her fellow Shepherd's cold boot. Belfire bristled slightly as his rider deftly landed in his saddle. Sumia extended her hand and helped haul up Anje, who slid in seamlessly behind her.

"The snow and wind aren't too bad, so we shouldn't be thrown about."

Anje nodded, squeezing the pegasus rider tightly around the waist with her cheek pressed up against Sumia's armor, some of her blonde stray locks serving as a small barrier between her cheek and the cold steel.

Sumia snapped the reins. "Here we go, hold on tight!"

Belfire's wings beat as he galloped through the stone courtyard, drawing the eyes of a few nearby Feroxi guards. With a large gust of air, Belfire lifted from the ground and Anje's heart fluttered for a moment. The thrill of riding such an improbable beast, let alone flying, had not lost its novelty. She felt a kinship with the animal as both sought refuge in the skies. A place of freedom from the earthly struggles.

"How's it feel up here?" Sumia shouted. Snow lightly pelted the two as Belfire gained more altitude, his wings beating furiously.

"Fine!" Anje replied, keeping her head and shoulder pressed against the rider.

Sumia steered Belfire with practiced precision and authority through the light snow until she reached a spot in the sky that overlooked all of Longfort and the rest of the snowy North. Belfire's wings flapped rhythmically as he treaded air to stay aloft.

"Wow! I don't think I've ever seen so much snow!" Sumia gushed as she relaxed her posture. She looked over her shoulder, smiling. "A bit better?"

Anje felt a warmth in her cheeks, looking away. "It's really nice. I'd stay up here forever if I could."

"I feel that way sometimes too." Sumia patted Belfire on the neck, running her fingers through his mane. "Though, I'm sure this big guy would get tired eventually. It's so calm though. You ever ride?"

"Normal horses? Sure," Anje said. She leaned back on the saddle a bit, gripping Belfire tightly with her toned thighs. "Something like this? Not in my life. This is new, and yet oddly familiar. I can feel my adrenaline spike every time we lift off and turn in the air. There's nothing else to think about other than the moment. It's your moment."

"This is what you did before, right? I think Virion mentioned acrobatics."

Anje nodded, letting out an exhale of cold air escape from her mouth. "It's what I was trained in. Trapeze was my specialty, but I did a lot of things. Beast taming, knife throwing, dancing, and some other things."

"Wow, what made you choose that?" Sumia exclaimed as she held an excited grin from over her shoulder.

"I didn't choose it. It chose me." Anje shrugged, looking down at the small structures below through the snow-laden sky. "It was survival. It was an escape." She shifted slightly in the seat, closing her eyes. "And it was my hell," She whispered as the wind picked up.

"What?" Sumia loudly said, leaning back more towards Anje. "Belfire is so loud! What was that?"

"Nothing," Anje sharply replied. "I-can we just stay up here a bit longer. Please?"

"Of course," Sumia replied, her gentle voice riding with the sound of the blustering wind. "I think we both could use the time."

7 years ago

Anje shivered as she got off the transit bus, the cool springtime breeze of Sevastopol still hardly above zero degrees celsius. Anje shuffled away from the larger adults filing off the bus behind her, a long ponytail nearly hitting her in the face as she looked back and forth down the street for her grandmother.

Mother said she'd be here, Anje thought as she walked over to the bus stop post. She'd always imagined Sevastopol as some kind of grand city with large buildings, wide streets with food vendors, beautiful textile markets, and a bright sun overlooking the bay.

This was not that. Instead, she saw a gray world around her with boxy buildings and broken street lights. People around her with unkempt hair, disheveled clothing, and a haunting look behind many of their sunken, darkened eyes. Mother had said it'd be fine, and only temporary. Father would be released from the accident in Chernobyl soon, and she'd be able to come back. Why mother had packed her backpack to nearly overflowing seemed like she wanted Anje to be prepared. Anje hummed quietly as a sliver of sunlight pierced through the dark clouds above, though even the sunlight seemed dull as it reflected off the slate warehouses in the area.

"Ey, kid. Are you going to board?" a raspy and airy voice said from Anje's side.

She tilted her head and smiled at the gruff-looking woman wearing a large overcoat and jeans that were terribly frayed at the bottom. "I just got off. My grandmother is coming to get me."

The dark-haired woman sniffled, wiping her nose with her sleeve. "Sure, kid." She crouched down at Anje's eye level, a strange glimmer in her eyes that seemed off to Anje. "You know, not a lot of kids usually just hang out at bus stops, and that bag looks awfully heavy. Why not let me hold that for-"

"Back off!" A stern and matronly voice called out. The odd woman in front of Anje looked up abruptly and let out a cough before walking away.

Anje felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up. A tall slender woman who looked like an older version of her mother stood beside her, a long leather satchel hanging off her shoulder being gripped tightly and sharp eyes glowering at the other woman that was stalking off. The woman's face was more gaunt and had more lines than her mother's, but the body shape resemblance and stark blonde hair were undeniable.

Her grandmother gripped Anje's thin arm, squeezing just hard enough for Anje to bite her cheek as she was pulled close. "Didn't your mother tell you not to talk to strangers? Foolish girl."

She talked to me first though, Anje tried not to frown and nodded. "Yes, grandmother. I'm sorry." She knew Mother would be disappointed if she started her visit complaining. She knew better than that.

"Seems she taught you some manners at least," Grandma huffed. "Now come, we have a stop to make before I take you to my home."

Pulling Anje along with a vice grip, Grandma led Anje down the fractured sidewalk of the outskirts of the gray city. Anje avoided eye contact with the strangers that trudged by, holding the straps of her leather backpack tightly as she let her Grandmother tug her along like cattle. She shivered as the sunlight disappeared behind the seemingly endless expanse of clouds. This place was nothing like home.

Grandma led Anje down a zigzag pattern of nearly identical-looking blocks deeper into the city. Anje squinted up at the sky as the sunlight seemed to be fading faster as the sky teetered on the edge of dusk. She felt the grip on her bicep disappear as her grandma had stopped in front of a blocky store with a sign in the window that read 'GLASSBLOWING' in front of the closed blinders.

"Wait here, and don't move an inch."

Anje nodded as Grandma quickly opened the worn wooden door, closing it behind her with a quick slam to prevent Anje from getting a better look at the inside. The buildings around the area felt like they were looming over the street with their tall and sharp geometries, perfectly cut cubes meant for a mathematical purpose, not expression.

What would Grandma be getting? Why would she just leave me out here?

A simple tune slipped past Anje's lips. A low and mild hum to distract her from the weirdly empty street, not merely painted gray but seemed stained, like the rainwater itself didn't wash away the grime, but the colors as well. She kept humming, a bit more loudly as she twiddled her fingers.

Much has happened since being sent away by Mother just a few days ago. The explosions. The screams. The sirens and high pitched ringing. Oh, the ringing, Anje let out a brief sporadic shiver. She'd never seen Mother act so scared. Aimless in the sea of darkness with sirens. She always knew what to do, but that night she only called out for Father. On the phone, crying and dialing the number over and over again until he answered. And then came the packing, and hurrying out of the house. Neither of them looked back, though now she wished she had. Why hadn't they waited for Father?

Grandma bolted out of the store, the door swinging violently on its hinges as the sharp-featured elderly woman shuffled away. Anje stopped humming as Grandma's head quickly looked down both sides of the street, and then that vice grip once again seized her bicep.

"Time to head home, Anje. The militia is heading this way soon," Grandma said in a ragged tone, as she had just been running.

"Why are they a problem? Aren't they supposed to-"

"Don't question your elder, child. Thought that mother of yours taught you better manners."

Anje remained quiet as Grandma pulled her along like a pack mule, having to quicken her pace every few steps to compensate for the stride difference. She knew her arrival was abrupt, and Grandma was being kind to house her while Mother tried to get Father back. Anje still frowned though, as small nips of irritation entered her mind.

It's not like I chose to be a burden.

Large churning and grinding boomed in the distance. Anje felt her body want to jump, but Grandma only gripped her tighter. "We'll have to take the back way. Stay close, child," Grandma warned as she sharply dragged Anje into a side alley.

Anje fought the urge to roll her eyes. As if I have a choice. 'Respect your elders, Anje. Do it!', Anje mimicked the worn and demanding tone of her Grandma inside her head.

This alley's sheer stone walls loomed tall and dark as Anje continued to be dragged behind her grandmother, caught in an uncomfortable pace somewhere in between a walk and a jog due to her shorter legs. The sharp corners of the alleyway felt labyrinthian as Grandma took sudden turns, Anje's body lurching as she trailed behind. And then the momentum stopped.

She braced herself against her grandma's backside as the older woman stopped abruptly. Anje rubbed her nose as it had smooshed roughly into her back. "Grandma, what-"

"Quiet, child," Granda hissed through her clenched teeth. Anje peered around her grandmother to see two men propped up against the alleyway walls; the larger, more round of the duo held a metal pipe in his hands.

"Walk down there the wrong way, lady?" The taller, more slender man spoke up. He grinned, revealing yellowed teeth that seemed too small for his long and dropping face. "With the militia about, lotta o' us are down in the dumps." He gave a knowing nod upward toward the grinding noise in the distance. "From 'em."

"We were just moving by, step aside," Grandma said with a strong and even tone, though Anje tried not to wince or make a sound as the grip around her arm tightened. She bit her lip to try and distract from the pain.

"Of course, babushka," the fat one said, wearing grease-stained overalls and white shirt, "But perhaps you should give a little donation to those in need?" He made a quick gesture between him and his long-faced friend. "Ya know. We're hungry out here. People are suffering."

Grandma's eyes narrowed. "And you dare try to rob an old woman trying to get home?"

The taller man shrugged, resting the metal bar on his shoulder. "Ain't robbing if you're giving freely. It's donating. A truly altruistic act."

"What he said," The fat one said, nodding along. Anje could tell he didn't understand what his friend had meant. Neither did she, other than the fact they were trying to rob her Grandma in a rather odd way.

Anje tugged on her grandmother's overcoat. "Can we just let them have what they want and leave?" Anje whispered.

Grandma looked down at Anje, a dangerous gleam in her eye. She wasn't going to fold to these men, clutching her satchel with the hand that wasn't causing Anje's left arm to begin to bruise. Why won't she just let it go? Anje thought, Why is it so worth it?

The distraction was enough, as a loud hollow sound rang out through the alleyway. Anje's arm felt alive again as the grip loosed, followed by the sight of her grandmother slumping to the ground.

Her chest felt hot, and her mouth felt dry. Blood could be seen leaking from the back of her grandmother's head. Anje felt her eyes drawn to her grandmother, the scavengers already pillaging the satchel. "Any money in there?" The fat one asked as his accomplishment was already rummaging. "Could use something for food ya know."

"You're always hungry, you fatass," The tall man growled as he tossed the bag aside, holding up a brown paper bag. "Only found this. We can trade it for food. Didn't take the ole' lady for an addict though."

"What about the kid?" The fat one asked, pointing a grubby finger at Anje. Suddenly she felt much smaller as both the looming men turned their attention to her. She heard the tall one curse under his breath.

"Goddamnit," The taller man grunted, looking back to Anje's grandmother. He gave the woman a rough nudge with his boot, but she didn't respond. "Shit, I only wanted to knock her out…"

Anje felt her hands shake, unable to remove her eyes from her grandmother's unmoving body. "Why?" She said, her voice sounding as fragile as she felt. A tear began to bead in her eye. "Why?"

"Maybe you should wack her too," The fat one suggested. Anje's skin went cold, the air in her lungs becoming heavy.

She heard a shove, her eyes still locked onto her grandmother. "Piss off, she's just a kid. She ain't gonna do anything." That was the voice of the taller man with the metal bar. "Besides, I'm fucking hungry. Let's go to Maksim and trade away this crap."

"Or we could smoke it up ourselves?"

The sound of a slap echoed out, followed by a hiss of pain from the fat one. "Think! No point in getting it on when we're hungry!" The taller man reprimanded.

Anje finally looked over to the two men, her locking eyes with the two men. An icy calm washed over her. Were they going to hit her too? Would a scream even matter? Why did they fear the military so much? Anje grit her teeth. And why didn't Grandma just give the bad men her bag?

The tall man broke off his gaze, looking down the other end of the alley. "Let's just go, Sergey," He said in a distant tone. It didn't sound remorseful or even sorry, but somewhat detached.

"But the kid-"

"Forget the kid." The tall man waggled the metal pipe at his fat accomplice. "Let's go get some grub and a drink. I'd rather forget about killing an old lady."

Anje's stomach dropped as she felt her knees shake. They killed her. One sudden hit from a pipe and she stopped moving forever. The woman hadn't been particularly kind to Anje, but she couldn't hold back the tears. She was family and was supposed to make her feel safe while Mother tried to help Father back at home. Her mouth opened, but no noise came out, though she desperately tried to scream. For anything to come out.

She turned and ran down the alley. So many random paths that looked all the same and Anje took each one on a whim. An escape from that scene, hoping that the further she ran the less real it would be. Even the pain in her arm that was beginning to purple didn't feel that bad anymore.

Anje had no idea for how long she ran, only that she eventually collapsed next to some crates near an exit to a larger street. Shallow ragged breaths escaped from her trembling lips as he wrapped her arms around herself. The darkness of night was beginning to settle over the city, and a chill ran down Anje's spine. She wanted to weep, but her face clenched in anger as if paralyzed by the decision to shout out in hatred or to give in to sorrow, so she remained quiet and slowly rocked back and forth.

From the opening of the alley, she could see people walking by, even some cars drove by, but nobody looked into the dark tunnel. She wanted to ask for help, but the thought of what had happened previously kept her from doing so. Too soon, Anje thought.

She felt weak and helpless. What was she to do? Fight back? Demand her grandmother hand over her bag, like the unruly child she believed Anje to be? Anje shook her head. It was humiliating for her to know she couldn't do anything, her sadness giving way to hatred. The hate for those men, being there and greedy, for her grandmother not just giving them the bag, and for herself. For knowing she couldn't do anything.

"You lost there?"

Anje's head jerked up. She instinctively wiped away the dried snot and tears from her face. When did that happen?

At the entrance of the alley, she saw a man and a woman. The man held a cane, wore a top hat, and a nice suit that seemed slightly too big for his gangly body that didn't quite match his puffy looking face and soft green eyes. The woman beside him wore a brown overcoat and was tall, wearing three-inch heels and wearing bright red lipstick that seemed to contrast her bright blond hair perfectly.

The man approached slowly, the sound of his cane hitting the ground with a sharp sound with every step. He leaned down. "You lost, child?"

Anje dumbly nodded. Words felt so far at the moment.

"Unfortunate," He said softly. His eyes flickered, seemingly to take in the surroundings rapidly. "Can you stand?"

Anje stood without question. It was a simple request, and it felt better than wallowing. The woman behind him watched with a sharp gaze, her arms crossed over her modest chest.

"Good. Raise your arms?" The man suggested with a kindly tone. Anje frowned but followed along. "Good. You play sports?"

"Sometimes. Told I was quick," Anje replied, though as the words left her mouth she frowned. Why does this stranger care?

The kindly stranger nodded as if seriously considering Anje's words. He rubbed his finely shaved chin. "Do you have somewhere to sleep?" Anje shook her head, and the man clicked his tongue. "Ah, well that's a shame. Would you like to?"

What? Anje thought. Why would he offer that? He doesn't even know me.

"I can see you're skeptical," The man said, removing his fanciful tophat to reveal a thin brown tousled mess of hair. "I'd be too, but, how about we make a deal? A promise if you will. I take it you're familiar."

Anje nodded again. The woman at the entrance of the alley shook her head and tapped her foot on the ground. Her patience seemed to be wearing thin as the man knelt before Anje, offering out a white-gloved hand and a soft smile.

"Tell you what. I'll let you sleep at my place for the evening if you promise to show me some of those sports moves of yours. Perhaps some cartwheels and somersaults?"

Anje tilted her head to the side. "O-okay, but why?"

He smiled and his eyes seemed to focus more on her, shining like emeralds in the dim streetlight. "I'm curious. Of course, you can refuse, but does that sound like a good deal?"

"...yes," Anje said. "I'll do it, but you won't-"

"Nothing too weird," The man chuckled, holding out a hand for Anje to take. "My family is quite large by the way, so I hope you're not shy." He looked back to the woman at the end of the alley; she was now smoking a cigarette. "Tell me, what's your name?"

"Anje," She whispered. She took his firm hand and let him gently lead her out of the alley. "Who are you?"

The man chuckled again, ignoring the glare from his blonde companion. "Just call me The Ringmaster. It's what everybody calls me anyway."

"Another stray?" The woman bluntly stated, flicking away her cigarette. "You're actually taking the kid?"

"Of course," Ringmaster said in a jovial tone. "We made a deal, and it shall be honored. Besides, you know I have an eye for talent." He laughed again and gestured for the woman to take the lead. "Instincts and all, my dear."

Anje followed beside The Ringmaster, trying to study his lazy and happy face. Looking for something that he might be hiding. He laughed at the small insults the woman jibed and took Anje deeper into Sevastopol, where the lights of buildings seemed brighter and the air lighter. They disappeared into the night through the smog of cars and dark clouds. The strange encounter had almost been enough to distract her from the fear and hatred she felt just a few hours earlier.

Almost.

The sounds of the arena roared in the distance through the frigid air. Warm-ups had begun, and soldiers and civilians alike were filing into the vast domed woodwork. It reminded Anje a bit of some of the grand tents she had performed inside of while she was still with the Crimson Circus, a small feeling of longing fluttering inside her chest along with something else that she immediately dismissed from her mind.

"Quite the rabble, isn't it?" Virion mused as he and Anje stood to the side of the quick-moving line of people. "While they lack a certain grace, they certainly make up for it in enthusiasm."

Flavia had asked her to wait so she may talk more with her during the bout, and Anje had finally managed to pry Virion away from the rest of the Shepherds since he disappeared with Miriel last night.

"What did the witch want with you last night?" Anje asked, her attention focused on the barracks across the courtyard.

"Oh, a little this and a little that," Virion said easily. "Though she was rather interested in my fortune-telling. Academics like her are always baffled by the unknown. It's relatively fascinating, wouldn't you agree, my lush, beautiful primrose?"

Anje turned her head, raising an eyebrow. "Primrose? I think that's the wrong color."

"Ahem." Virion coughed into his gloved fist. "You misunderstand, Anje. It was more of an acknowledgment of your striking beauty-"

"Can't you just call me pretty? Or hot? Or anything less confusing?" Anje mused, looking to Virion with her arms folded across her chest. "You do know I don't know about half the things you say, right?"

Virion's cheeks flushed slightly. "I didn't mean to incite that I was trying to make you feel insecure! My sugary words are meant to have a certain linguistic flavor, and are at the very least-"

"Virion," Anje cut in, "I know you're complimenting me, it's just I have to really think about whatever your words mean. You don't have to disguise your compliments." Anje felt a pulling at the corners of her lips. "Besides, it's not like I'm asking you to stop."

"Ah. I see," Virion hesitantly said. "Then how about, I think you look lovely in this winter wonderscape."

"In clothes that you picked out," Anje dryly noted.

"Precisely. The burgundy and lighter reds really do bring out your complexion."

Anje rolled her eyes, but she smiled regardless. Of course, he figured a way to compliment himself. She had never met someone who said so little with so many words, though they did have a way of relaxing her and making her smile.

"Is this a technique that I should endeavor to use with other ladies, Anje? Have my approaches been too obtuse?"

"No," Anje replied. Too quickly. She gritted her teeth and let out a sigh. "No, I don't think so. I'm just saying what works for me."

"I see," Virion hummed. He rubbed his chin as if in deep thought. "Perhaps that was a hint of jealousy that I heard in your gentle voice?" He chuckled to himself. "Not surprising, considering that I am-"

"Virion?"

"Hmmm? Yes?" Virion replied suddenly, returning his attention to Anje.

Anje gave him a wide faux smile, batting her eyelashes. "Do you want to get stabbed?"

Virion appeared to consider it for a moment before closing his eyes. "Point taken."

"I haven't stabbed you yet."

"Is that a promise or a threat?" Virion asked, returning to his suave and confident demeanor.

Anje shrugged, lightly tapping on the knife strapped to her thigh. "Haven't made up my mind yet." She flashed Virion a smirk. "More flowery apologies might help though."

"Ahh, there's the feisty one," Flavia announced, almost causing Anje to jump a bit. She didn't even hear the warrior approach. Virion gave Anje a sly smile, and she immediately returned a glare saying 'keep quiet'. "And, I see you've got the Rosannian here too." Flavia lowered her voice to a dull grumble. "Great."

"I'm ready to see this match," Anje said, stepping between Flavia and Virion.

"As am I. Hope your lord is good with that legendary sword as I hope he is," Flavia commented as she gestured for the two to follow. "Basilio keeps talking up his mystery champion, and I want to be able to rub it back in the big oaf's face."

"Chrom is quite the talented swordsman, as the rest of the Shepherds are quite a capable bunch," Virion said. "Though, they will be sorely missing my archery prowess today. A pity, really."

"Yeah," Anje huffed, suddenly feeling drained. "Just...yeah."

Flavia patted Anje on the back, pulling her in closer. "Don't mope too much, kid. Just enjoy the show. Half of a good fight is being able to enjoy it, whether that be on the field or the sidelines."

"I'm not 'moping'," Anje retorted, though she didn't fight against Flavia's arm that had now wrapped around her shoulder. "It's fine."

"Sure, kid. You're about as convincing as Virion is humble."

Anje grunted. Virion didn't say anything, but she could see a smug smile on Virion's face as they entered the tunnel to the stands. Of course, he'd think that's funny, Anje grumbled.

The chatter of the crowd grew louder as they reached the end of the tunnel. A familiar sound to Anje that lifted her spirits as Flavia motioned to some Feroxi guards to clear a path to her seat. Virion offered Anje a hand to help guide her up the narrow stairs, which she took easily. He may annoy her slightly, but she found it a struggle not to smile at the small things he did when he wasn't talking.

Flavia crested the top of the stairs, stretching her arms out. "Here we are, dead center and a perfect elevation to watch the action," Flavia said. "I had the liberty to have the boys clear some extra space from the box."

Anje nodded and followed Flavia up the small flight of wooden steps into the sturdy private box. It was spacious with the side walls raised to help mute the side chatter with a wide opening in the front to give a perfect vantage over the dusty arena. Inside the box, Basilio sat on the far end in a sturdy cushioned wooden chair, and beside him the quiet swordsman from the evening prior; Lon'Qu.

"Finally made it?" Basilio rumbled as he sat up in his chair. " Figured you'd keep me waiting!"

Flavia flashed her fellow Khan a playful grin. "And to spend less time basking in my inevitable victory? Dream on."

Anje's eyes scanned the suite box and noticed only one extra chair. She turned back toward Virion who smiled and shrugged. "Tis a pity you won't be able to listen to my scintillating commentary," Virion dramatically mused. "Though, I'm sure the Khans will serve as an adequate substitute. I shall find the Shepherds and let them know where you are."

"Uh, sure. Thanks, Virion." Anje grimaced as Virion stepped down the steps and back into the bleacher lanes of the stands. She didn't really want him to tell the Shepherds about where she was but figured it'd be more suspicious to lie. She watched Virion disappear into the crowd before turning around and fully entering the box.

Anje sat in the open seat beside Flavia, both Khans near the center and Lon'Qu hid on the other side of Basilio. The man didn't talk much, so Anje didn't worry about him. She was content to let him be and just focus on the fight. Even though her boss was technically fighting, she didn't feel really beholden to root for him. Or to see him fail either...but more of just to see what would happen. Anje sighed as she tried to settle better into the slightly cushioned seat. Maybe the results would inspire something within her as for a decision; the thoughts of Flavia's offer the night prior danced across her mind.

"Like what you see, Anje?" Flavia nudged Anje in the side with her elbow. She pointed toward the gate on the south end of the arena. "That's where your folk will be coming out. How do you think they'll fare?"

Anje shrugged. "They're capable, and I'd rather not bet against Robin."

"The shaggy white-haired guy? That oddball?"

"Yeah," Anje said, "That'd be him. He's weird," and one of those freaky mage people, "but he's smart. Like...scary smart."

"Well, let's hope your friend's blade is as sharp as their mind," Flavia said as she motioned to someone in the crowd. Anje peered over the edge of the box walls; a mead vendor was rushing toward them, nearly knocking into other bloodsport patrons.

The vendor entered the booth hastily, a pitcher in one hand, and a tray with goblets in the other. The young man looked excited but slightly worn as if he'd been running around all day. Anje nodded to the man as he passed both the Khans a brimming goblet of mead each. Anje reached her hand out for one but immediately retracted it.

Would it be rude to take one, or should I ask? She thought. I'm never the one in the stands watching.

"No mead for her," Flavia intoned with an authoritative glance. She leaned over to Basilio, whispering something that Anje couldn't quite hear, and then turned back to her. "So, have you thought about my offer any more?"

She had thought about it more. Ferox was nice, simple, and catered to Anje's strengths. It felt strangely familiar, but also held a sense of wonderment of what she could become here. Flavia exuded a confident aura around her and seemed to give warriors around her purpose, while the Shepherds offered her something similar. Sumia wanted her to stay, and Virion seemed to enjoy her company, but he didn't come out and say for her to stay. She didn't even want to bring it up for fear of causing a rift between the first person who showed her kindness in this strange land and yet not telling him felt dirty.

Anje looked once more at the arena, filled with patrons of people shouting and cheering. Was this what she wanted? To go back to-

She shook her head. No, Anje chided. Not like last time. My choice now. She looked over to Flavia who waited for her answer with a lazy smile, her goblet of mead already half drained and dangling precariously between her calloused fingers. Flavia didn't need her, but Anje craved the order and purpose of being in Ferox. She could always find another weird magic person to give that letter to, right? A place to fit in and call home.

"I think so," Anje quietly replied. "I'll...do it. Yes. I'm in."

Flavia sagely nodded, as if expecting the answer. "Atta' girl. Now, that settles the end of my bet." Flavia turned to Basilio, who was muttering something to Lon'Qu. She lightly slapped Basilio on the thigh. "Our exhibition is on! Have one of your runners tell the scorekeepers!"

"Excellent! This match just keeps getting better!" Basilio bellowed, gesturing for Lon'Qu to stand up.

Anje felt confused, looking between the Khans. "What now?"

"Exhibition, kid. Yesterday Basilio and I were trying to put together a little match to get the crowd's blood pumping before the main event. And then I got a brilliant idea when you stuck blondie's head in the wall." Flavia smiled a predatory grin. "You want my guard? Here's your challenge. Show your worth against Lon'Qu, and I'll have you. Simple as that."

Of course, it would be a challenge. Anje wouldn't have it any other way. An arena with her future contemporaries to watch her? Some might get nervous at the prospect of a large crowd, but the feeling fueled Anje. This was her show now.

"Lon can show you the prep area underneath the arena. You'll be able to chat with your Shepherds as well and let them know the news," Basilio said. "Flavia says you've got moxie, and that's got me curious. She doesn't take in every talented recruit she comes across."

Anje nodded to the Khans and began to follow Lon'Qu out of the stands. She knew what was to be done, and facing the rest of the Shepherds would indeed be awkward, perhaps numbing when thinning about a few, but this felt right. It felt like a step toward something more suited for her. Her heart thrummed with excitement as she followed the silent Lon'Qu down the several bleacher rows and steps. Nothing could compare to the thrill of the performance.

Anje pressed her hand against the iron double doors, pushing them open with a slight flourish. She was focused and teeming with excitement. Lon'Qu said nothing while showing her the way, and that suited her fine. It gave her more time to revel in euphoric anticipation. Others might plan or worry, but that wasn't her. She knew what to do, and she merely needed to act when the time came and be in sync with the rhythm of the fight. Just like when she'd be put in the tiger cage with nothing but a whip, some obstacles, and the beast-tamer to aid.

The confines of the small underground barrack reminded her of a locker room, though with more smells of blade oil in the air. It had a small gear station with racks and benches, a table with a few chairs, numerous weapon racks, and even a small forge and grindstone placed in the far corner of the room for any last-minute touch-ups. Not to mention the people occupying the room; Chrom and the rest of his Shepherds.

Robin was situated closest to the entry door, immediately turning toward Anje. He made a face, much like one if someone ate something strange. "This is...an anomaly. Were you wishing to grant us a good fortune?"

Sully and Frederick were busy near the grindstone chatting, and Stahl seemed to be struggling with his greaves and boots. Lissa and Chrom stood near the exit gate, Lissa bouncing around with happy energy and Chrom nodding along with his arms crossed and a confident expression. The feeling of sporadic butterflies churned inside Anje in the stomach, but she immediately smothered the feeling with thoughts of her goal. No time for that. Just tell them you are fighting Lon'Qu and you have a better offer. Nothing more to it, Anje thought, trying to convince herself. It mostly worked.

"Just need to talk to Chrom," Anje replied to the tactician. "Nothing else."

"Are you sure?" Robin inquired, stepping closer toward Anje. Uncomfortably close. " Your eyes are slightly dilated, your breathing seems elevated, and your vocal levels are slightly elevated." Robin followed Anje's gaze to Chrom and then looked back to her. "Are you...aroused?"

Anje's face turned bright red and sharply inhaled. "Wh-what?!" Stahl looked up with a confused look, nearly losing grip of his boot. Anje tried her best to scowl at Robin. "Why would you say that?"

"It's an increasingly common reaction to females seeing the prince," Robin said matter-of-factly. "Miriel and I have been trading notes on the attraction stimuli and mating practices, and current observations suggest that viewing prince has resulted in a sixty-two percent chance to invoke feelings of-"

"Please, please, for the love that is holy and sacred, shut up," Anje tensely whispered. Thankfully, nobody else besides Stahl seemed to take notice of her presence as of yet.

Robin shrugged, taking out a small notepad and ink quill from his inner coat pocket. Opening up the notepad, he quickly licked the tip of the quill and made a small tally on one of the pages before slipping it back into his coat pocket.

"That's sixty-five percent now. Thank you for the data," Robin replied as Anje groaned and pushed the wiry tactician aside. She was already distracted enough and listening to whatever Robin was thinking about certainly wasn't helping.

Looking ahead it seemed that Chrom was wrapping up whatever conversation with Lissa. Even though he was royalty, she never had felt really intimidated by that precedent. Perhaps because she didn't see him as her liege? He didn't laud his title around either, but he certainly used the perks it came with without hesitation; like running through the countryside like some wannabe knight in a fairy tale.

Is that why I don't like him. Because he gets to live a fantasy while the rest of us are left behind?

She marched ahead, passing Lissa by who flashed her a kind wave; one that she didn't return. Focus on the task at hand. She took a deep breath as Chrom stood triumphantly with his hands on his hips, just exuding an aura of confidence. Soft blue eyes, a tempered physique, and a mythical weapon seemed picturesque. Anje rolled her eyes as Chrom turned his attention toward her, a warm and inviting smile on his face.

"Anje!" Chrom extended his arms out as if to welcome her into a hug. Anje stopped in front of Chrom, her body remaining rigid and upright. She chose to give him a brief salute instead. "What brings you here? Here to wish us off? I haven't seen you since yesterday." Chrom sighed and looked up at the ceiling for a moment. "I try to check in with all the Shepherds, but I've got sidetracked with everything going on."

"It's fine, don't worry about it," Anje said. He offered a weak smile to her, sending a wave of goosebumps to raise on her arms. Why did she just now suddenly feel bad about avoiding him?

"No, I just need to be better," Chrom sighed. "It's my duty to look out for the Shepherds, and I can't help but feel you've gotten lost in the shuffle. I don't want to be a stranger to you."

"That's...kind." Anje grit her teeth. This wasn't supposed to be how the conversation was to go. Deep breath. "Look, uh, I came to tell you I have a match against Lon'Qu before yours. He's the fighter that hangs around Khan Basilio-"

Chrom clapped her on the shoulder, his face lighting up with excitement. "That's great! We'll have the rest of the Shepherds cheer you on as you give the crowd something to look forward to! It'll be-"

"I'm planning on joining Flavia. She made me an offer," Anje interrupted a bit louder than she intended. Her head felt like it was spinning from the niceties being spouted by Chrom. She had to say something. "I'm...thankful for your help, but I've made up my mind."

Chrom seemed to be frozen in place like a statue. His expression was staggeringly neutral as he just stared at Anje. Say something! Berate me! Be angry! Anything! Anje fumed as Chrom's mouth opened and then closed. And then again.

Chrom looked over the room before taking a step closer to Anje, and lowered his voice, much like a concerned parent would to a child. "What did we do wrong?" It felt weird to hear this powerful lord's voice quiver. "Tell me how I failed you. Please."

"That's the thing," Anje said, "I don't think you did. It just wasn't meant to be. I just...don't belong."

"Don't belong?" Chrom cast a glance toward Frederick and Sully, who were both now watching the hushed conversation from the forge. "Listen, I know you're a little slow to warm up to people, but that's okay. Don't feel like you're being pushed are good people here, and with us you're free. You're a Shepherd of Ylisse."

"I don't want to be free though," Anje whispered, her eyes drawn to the floor. "I need more purpose than that. Something more strict. Something more...familiar." She looked up at Chrom's steely gaze, the light from earlier gone from his eyes. "Do you hate me?"

"What? Naga, of course I don't. Maybe not understand your decision, but each person is their own in the Shepherds. I won't force you to stay or explain yourself more than you have." A roar from the crowd outside the gate boomed through the tunnel, sounding like someone was announcing something. Chrom held up his hand and nodded. "Do well out there, Anje. You still represent yourself along with the Shepherds, remember that. Until we meet again."

"Thanks," Anje replied, trying to keep a strong visage up. She'd never broken down before a performance, and she'd be damned if she started now. She shook his hand firmly for a moment and then began walking toward the weapon rack.

A hand caught her shoulder, and she turned back to see Chrom smiling. "Hey, I didn't say you had to stop being a Shepherd if you left," The prince said. "If things don't work out, don't be afraid to talk to me about it. I'm willing to listen; you just have to talk to me. Okay?"

Anje nodded. Maybe he isn't just some royal fop after all. She turned around and marched toward the weapon rack, and began to look for a suitable weapon. Something light and agile to match her style. Perhaps a rapier?

"This one." Anje nearly jumped as Robin's voice echoed behind her; heart still racing from talking with Chrom. She whipped her head around to see the strange tactician pointing toward a weapon on the end; a spear.

Anje quirked her eyebrow at Robin. "That? I've used a bo-staff before, but never that. Why not a bow or rapier? Or even a whip?"

"Trust me. I've looked at this Lon'Qu fellow, and he's going to expect a swordfight. A bow is too slow, and I don't think you're ready for dueling with a whip as it's a better support weapon. The spear is the natural choice," Robin elaborated, continuing to gesture toward the pointed stick.

Stepping over to the weapon, Anje cast a skeptical look at Robin. "You sure?"

"If my calculations are wrong, I'll eat my Elthunder tome," Robin said, though Anje couldn't detect any sarcasm. The nutty mage seemed serious.

"Fine," Anje said, grabbing the spear. It was light and well balanced in her hands as she gave it a few spins and twirls. "I suppose this will do."

"Remember to leverage your range against him, and when in doubt use your feminine wiles."

Anje glared at Robin, though the mage didn't seem at all intimidated or perturbed. "I did not just hear you say that."

"It's not against the rules. I triple checked them. Besides, I've observed Lon'Qu as to being averse to the opposite gender," Robin said with a slight grin. "It's only natural to take advantage of a given weakness."

"How do you know this?" Anje scoffed. "You've seen him-"

"Twice," Robin said, holding up two fingers, "For approximately two and a half minutes total. I'm confident in my assessment."

"Do you have this kind of information on everyone?" Anje asked. "How do you remember this stuff?"

"It's my job as the Shepherds tactician to know," Robin casually replied. "And I enjoy my job. Now, I presume you will need to be going shortly. Yes. Mhmmm." He raised a hand to his chin and nodded, as if in deep thought. "Excuse me, I need to plan more contingencies for my group's opponent. The lack of data is aggravating."

Feeling completely lost, Anje simply nodded and watched the strange tactician leave muttering quietly to himself. She didn't quite know what to make of the man. Sometimes he was just smart, and other times just weird.

Yet, the weirdo hasn't been wrong, Anje mused as he gave the spear another practice thrust. A thin smile graced her lips. Time to show Ferox what they've been missing out on.

A/N: Hello again! Another chonky chapter for me, and the first flashback scene for Anje to help give you a feel where she is coming from as a person, not that she's just inherently about as emotionally cuddly as a porcupine. I tried to mix up the mood with some comedy and teasing so it wasn't completely dreary. Also just trying to solidify some characterization for more people, so hopefully it all feels about right for the awakening crew. All the feedback is appreciated and thanks to those of you who reviewed last time.

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Thanks for reading and see ya'll next time.