Winters waved a cheerful hello as he approached the gates of the village. As agreed, Veera was waiting for him. She returned his gesture with one hand, shielding her eyes from the rising sun with the other. They’d decided to go to the festival together, allowing an hour or so for things to get going. It was easy enough to see the excitement on Veera’s face. It only magnified Winters’ own.

“My lady.” Winters genuflected before her. “May I have the honor of escorting you to this festival?” Veera rewarded his over the top gallantry with an enchanting look.

“Mmm, that sounds wonderful my human. I accept.” Her possessive was not lost on him. She offered him her hand, which he took before standing again. Io was chortling at their antics. For her part she’d changed into a pair of slim fitting athletic gear, showing off her digitally perfect body. It was pretty clear to Winters that she had two goals in mind. First, look pretty, which would bear some explanation later. Second, help him win every game she could. It was endearing to see her getting into the spirit. “What would you like to do first?” Veera asked.

‘Sir, I’ve arranged an optimal order of events for you here. This should allow for ideal recovery time and rotation of strained muscle groups.’ Io informed him, showing him a list on his visor. Winters laughed.

“You have that little faith Io?” He joked. “Concerned I’m not all that without the Aegis?”

‘I simply wish to destroy the competition.’ She informed him.

“You really are my woman, aren’t you?” He agreed, looking at Veera. “She partially developed her personality by mimicking me.” He explained, knowing that without context the phrase could have been taken in a very different way.

“You know, that explains quite a lot. At this point I’ve learned to just take things at face value as far as humanity is concerned.” Veera smiled, stroking the underside of her chin with a claw. “Your technology really is amazing. Shall we get moving? I think before you do anything today you should eat. That’s definitely what I’m looking forward to!”

“Agreed! I could use a bite myself. Let’s go…feather kitten.” Winters whispered the last words, enjoying the fluttering of plumage and bashful look in her eyes. He took her by the arm and led her through the gate, nodding with appreciation at the lone guard who remained on duty there. He was sure Antoth had devised a rotation so as not to leave anyone high and dry. “Hey, Veera?”

“Yes Russell?” She asked as they joined a small trickle of villagers walking toward the town center. He could see even at a distance that most of the village was already there.

“What happens if a guard is of age for courtship, like Xan?”

“Any guards between the ages of sixteen and eighteen are allowed to fully participate in the festival. Older than that and they join their fellows as officiants and on gate duty. You’ll see when we get there.”

“I’m sure. Thanks for satisfying my curiosity.”

“Mhm!” She snuggled up to him as they walked, more excited than she’d been in years. There would be no gnawing worry about what the village boys would say to her when she approached them, no demanding hunger to satisfy. As far as she was concerned she was already attending on the arm of the best man in the village. She decided to be bold and voice her opinion, firing her first volley in the game that Winters had begun when he greeted her that morning.

“I’m a very lucky woman.” She purred, looking up at him.

“That so?” He cocked a brow at her and flashed a winning smile, his pale blue eyes fixated on her own.

“Indeed. We don’t need to cause a stir or anything, but I already know I’m making out better than any of the village maidens this year. I’ve got you.” She told him.

“I’m a HEL Jumper Veera, I don’t mind making a scene you know.” He paused to consider her before chuckling. “You really aren’t a shy one, are you?”

“No, not anymore. And you love it.” She pressed. He nodded, conceding the point.

“Guilty as charged. For what it’s worth Veera, I feel the same way. Not that I really consider myself to be a part of the pool of eligible Cauthan bachelors.” He told her, feeling a light flush in his cheeks. If this was how the festival was going to go…he’d have to make his decision soon. That distracting thought prevented him from going full hand on back of neck. Their light-hearted flirting was the tip of the iceberg, and the rest demanded his consideration. “Besides, I wouldn’t want to be counted in the company of those who have proven themselves incapable of appreciating beauty.” He reasoned.

‘Ooooh, one point for the Lieutenant!’ Io had erected a scoreboard. They each already had a score of one. He was now in the lead. Winters briefly considered making Veera a visor so she could share in Io’s increasingly outgoing sense of humor. Then he remembered that Io had every scan of him imaginable; at least every scan of him ever taken by HEL medical personnel and still considered relevant.

“Incapable of…what?” Veera asked, thrown for just a moment. Winters made a point of looking her up and down, sparing no part of her from his gaze. Her feathers began vibrating with pleasure. “Oh…” She whispered, glancing away from him. He began rubbing small circles on the outside of her hand with his thumb, letting her know he was simply pleased to be with her.

“Will you show me what’s good to eat? Are there stalls with things one can only get at the festival?” He asked, allowing both of them a chance to climb down from their flirtatious peak as they arrived.

“Oh yes! Of course! Let’s see…there we go!” She pulled him to the right as soon as they hit the square. He noticed Vash standing on the steps of his temple addressing most of the populace. Fortunately, the portly priest was wrapping up what Winters was sure was a load of tripe. He said nothing though, it wouldn’t do to ruin Veera’s day by starting a fight. Using the temporary distraction to their advantage, Veera steered them to the front of the line for what appeared to be a stall for the town baker. An array of delicious looking breads and pastries were laid out before them, many laced or powdered with what looked like ground bark or herbs. Winters noticed a handful of puffed pastries in the back that appeared to be filled with some sort of cream. He wasn’t sure if the Cauthan had sugar or sweetener, but he knew they could at least do something with eggs. He pointed at them.

“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”

“Oh yes my human, you have excellent taste!” Veera informed him, earning a full rub of his neck for her comment. Io made a flourishing gesture and incremented Veera’s tally. The two of them were getting hungry just from the smells wafting toward them. The baker and her apprentices soon returned to their stand from listening to the opening speech and they began taking orders. A few moments later Winters and Veera departed with a cream puff and a swirled pastry each. The latter looked a bit like a cinnamon roll to him. Finding an open bench, they sat and began to eat.

“So everyone just gives things away like that?” He asked, finding it a bit unbelievable.

“No, not exactly. You saw the one taking down marks on that piece of leather?”

“Yeah, some sort of list I presume?”

“She was taking notes on who ordered what. It’s all optional to repay, since everyone contributes during harvest time, but it’s meant to ensure no one abuses the system. Don’t worry, I’ll bring them a few extra slices of fish or eggs or herbs when I visit them next. That’s how we do things.” Veera reassured him. Satisfied that he wasn’t stealing anyone’s food, Winters took a bite of the puffed pastry. It had clearly been baked that morning. He let out a rather sensual groan of surprise and satisfaction. The taste and texture were wonderful and unexpected. The cream, as he thought, was egg based. Inside it though was seasoned minced meat, which gave the creation a decidedly savory flavor.

“Now I know why you enjoy the festival so much.”

“Of course you do, and no talking with your mouth full!” She elbowed him gently, making sure not to dislodge any of their breakfast.

‘I never thought I’d be envious of taste buds…’ Io sighed.

“Sorry Io.” Winters and Veera replied, feeling bad for the VI.

‘Oh don’t mind me you two. Enjoy the festival! I can assure you that all of this social interaction is keeping me well occupied. The nuances of your feathers, Veera…it’s quite lovely actually. It’s little wonder your species communicates so well without touch.’ Io remarked as Winters began his next bun.

“Well, I think that’s as close to cinnamon as I’m going to get out here. You’re the best Veera, this is great!” Winters told her happily as he devoured the roll. Veera couldn’t help but feel that warmth in her chest again. He was adorable, so caught up in his food and tastes that faintly reminded him of home. With a small smile, she noticed that sensation didn’t feel heavy anymore. It made her feel light and free. She bit into her own roll with a contented sigh. Yeah…today’s going to be great.

“Hello young ones! Do you mind if I join you?”

Did I say great? I meant embarrassing to no end. Veera groaned internally as Gentia joined them on the bench, sitting next to her. Remembering the discussion she and Winters had shared in the alley, she took a deep breath and calmed herself. Gentia is a friend. Russell wants the real me. Winters gave a nod of greeting to the elder and extended the translator, taking over the conversation.

“Good morning Gentia. Taking a break from the chaos at the temple?” He asked.

“You’re kind to ask young man, but you give me too little credit!” She reached across Veera to tap him on the knee with her cane. “I’ve been doing this for more years than you’ve been alive! Besides, I’m no longer an acolyte. Most of the tedious accounting is out of my hands now. What about you, human? My mate tells me that you’ve come through quite the storm yourself. I hope you’re able to enjoy yourself.” Winters looked at Veera in confusion. She mouthed a name at him.

“Thantis is your mate?!” Winters exclaimed, louder than he’d intended. After a moment he gave her an embarrassed grin. “You know…that actually makes a lot of sense now that I think about it. I guess you know the story then?”

“I do not young one. My mate has always respected the privacy of the grieving.” She stated with pride.

“Then please extend my thanks to him. He performed his duties well, and has been a good friend to me.” He said seriously.

“I will child, though I expect you’ll see him around here at some point. You are well?”

“I am.” He placed a hand on Veera’s in the space between the two of them on the bench. “I’ve had Veera with me.”

“You’ll not find yourself a better woman in the whole village.” Gentia nodded in agreement.

“Gentia!” Veera whispered, feeling her blood rush to her feathers.

“She’s right you know?” Winters reassured her before looking a piercing glance at Gentia. “Though I must say, you think highly of her.”

“Now now young man, save it for the ones who deserve it. I readily admit I was wary of Veera’s mother too, but she quickly proved herself to be a wonderful friend. Our time together was far too short. I see much of her in her daughter, and it warms my old heart to see that someone else has noticed too.” The priestess confided, the sorrow in her voice turning to happiness.

“I see. Now, why don’t we skip to a new topic before Veera implodes from embarrassment eh?” Winters suggested, feeling a creeping blush himself. Unlike Veera, he had no fur to hide it. He wanted to hug her outright, ensure her that yes, Gentia was right and that no, it was nothing to be embarrassed about. He was worried about straying too far outside of Cauthan protocol during the festival however. It would have to be up to Veera to initiate significant contact, in public at least, for now. The Cauthan in question was staring intently at her knees. He leaned in close to her. “Hey, feather kitten, wanna go shoot a bow with me?” He asked, noticing that the small archery range was currently unoccupied. She perked up immediately and smiled at him before turning to Gentia.

“You’re worse than a grandmother, you know that?” She asked pointedly, unable to contain her smile. Winters was still gripping her hand tightly.

“Of course I do child! How else am I to find amusement in my old age? Now go, run along and have fun. I promise when next we speak I will try to make it of mundane things. Take care of her now human.”

“I will Gentia. Enjoy the festival.”

“So, have you seen Zolta around yet?” Winters asked as the couple threaded their way towards the range. The crowed milled about them, many taking part in breakfast and light conversation. There were only a few individuals engaged in any of the physical events yet. They had two days and no one seemed over eager.

“Mmm no, not yet.” Veera replied, casting her eyes around in an attempt to locate the young smith. “You don’t think he’d…”

“No, I’m sure he’ll be here. I just…” Winters trailed off, scratching his head.

“Just what?”

“I’m not sure he’ll be able to talk to her as he wants to. That was something I was never able to discuss with him, other than him telling me that the two of them have had precious little time of late, even for conversation. He’s into her for all the right reasons from what I can tell. He has her best interest at heart but…” Veera nodded, acknowledging his concerns.

“I understand, but I’m not sure what else we can do. For now, let’s have a little fun and if the situation calls for it, I’m sure we’ll think of something. That’s your whole job, isn’t it?” She asked lightheartedly.

“What? Drop into shit storms and sort it all out before things go too far south?” He cocked a brow at her.

“Exactly!” She replied, bouncing on her feet as they reached the shooting line. They each grabbed a bow from a rack and a bundle of eight arrows before taking firing positions. Winters guessed the targets were maybe forty feet away, not a bad set up.

“You say that, but…” He began, rotating his hand at the wrist and getting a feel for the simple wooden short bow. “Usually when I ‘drop into’ a problem it’s a situation that can be resolved with superior firepower. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I’m pretty sure no aspect of your species’ courtship calls for a literal guns blazing approach?” He tested the draw weight as Veera threw him a look over her shoulder. He noticed she had a good stance and didn’t seem to be a complete stranger to the bow, likely something she picked up from her father.

“Literal? No. Figurative, why not?” She asked, nocking her first arrow. They were basic projectiles, wood with a stone head and typical fletching. Winters figured they would do well enough for competition. Veera continued. “Some women are impressed by that sort of thing, you know? It doesn’t all have to be subtle. I certainly enjoy your direct approach to romance.” She informed him with a relaxed flick of her tail that drew his eyes to a most distracting portion of her anatomy.

“I’ll leave that to the experts.” Winters responded absent-mindedly as Veera stilled and took her first shot, giving him plenty of time to indulge in her profile. Her leg muscles were tensed and her legs parted slightly, forming a solid foundation for her shooting stance and an attractive sight for him. Io tisked in his ear, but didn’t seem too intent on reprimanding him. She was watching too. “So how does this work exactly?” Winters finally asked.

“Simple!” Veera replied, turning to face him. “The outer ring is one point. The middle ring, where my shot just landed is two. The center is three. First one to fire their arrows gets an extra two points!”

‘Oh, she’s quite devious that one.’ Io remarked approvingly, changing her scoreboard with a snap of her fingers to reflect the status of the current competition.

“Whose side are you on Io?” Winters demanded, hurriedly nocking and firing his own arrow. He’d not shot for many years. While the HEL valued the sword and shield as weapons thanks to their balanced nature and unlimited ammunition, the bow was relegated to antiquity and recreation. That lack of experience showed as his first arrow landed in the outer ring. Veera had already landed another two point shot. Figuring the day was likely lost already and unwilling to turn a competition with Veera into anything too antagonistic, Winters rotated his bow ninety degrees, firing his next arrow with the bow parallel to the ground. “So what do I get for style points?” He asked as his second arrow also found the outer ring.

“What do you get for what?” Veera asked in confusion, turning around after firing her third shot; a bullseye. “Russell, what are you doing?!”

“What? Just having a little fun is all.” He replied casually, attempting to draw his bow behind his back. “I don’t think I’ll beat you in straight skill, so I was thinking I might as well look good while doing it.” He said, attempting to line up a shot. Veera just stared at him as his grip on the string failed and the arrow went sailing off to the left, embedding itself in the sloped wooden roof of the temple of Seil. “Hrrrm. How many points for that?” He pointed at the arrow, looking very pleased with himself. Veera was having trouble controlling her amusement, hunched over slightly with her hand over her mouth, trying to hold it in. Soon enough she failed and the range was filled with laughter. Winters joined her.

‘I’m not sure if you just committed petty vandalism, heresy, or a declaration of war. In any case, nice shot sir.’ Io remarked with an approving nod. Winters held up his hands.

“I think I’m just going to concede defeat here and now. Your father taught you well Veera. Nicely done.” Winters ventured. Veera looked at him with a radiant smile.

“Yes, he did. Though, as you say, I’m not sure I won in terms of…style points?”

“I’ll take it! Io, we’ll call it a draw!”

‘No sir, we will not.’ She informed him.

“Not even a little draw?” He asked, holding his fingers just apart for effect.

‘No.’ She put her foot down, literally. Veera, only hearing the VI, just shrugged as her laughter returned. With a sigh and a smile Winters relented and retrieved their arrows from the targets, returning them to the guard who seemed relieved he’d not be causing any more trouble. Taking Veera by the hand, Winters led her back into the square.

“How long do you think it’ll take Vash to notice?” He whispered conspiratorially.

“He can’t even see his own manhood, how’s he going to notice that?” Veera replied calmly. They shared a poignant look. Winters eyes were wide as he nodded in fierce approval. Io was quite enthusiastic about the insult.

‘That was straight fire. Nice one Veera.’

“Thanks Io! So where to next, mister human?” Veera asked sweetly.

“I think I preferred big, stupid, and noble.” Winters muttered. “As for your question, I’m not sure. Want to check out some of the crafts? We might find Zolta.”

“That sounds lovely. Lead on then…darling.” She purred at him, rubbing briefly against his arm before pulling back to gaze up at his eyes. She gauged his reaction as he turned slowly to face her, a playful wisp of a grin on his lips.

“I think I like that a lot better.” He murmured.

For the next couple of hours, the two made a leisurely half circle around the fairgrounds. Beginning on the southern side, at the archery range, they proceeded counter clockwise in a path that brought them first to various displays belonging to the temples associated wholly or partially with crafts: the twin goddesses, Valta, and Tyrdus. They stopped first at a table filled with leather goods, staffed by Zolta’s master and another member of the temple. Winters was relieved when the Cauthan greeted them both professionally and asked if they had need of anything. Winters took a moment to look over the few leather sheaths, belts, scabbards, and the like. None would fit his blade, but he wanted to know which artisans had crafted them. He was surprised to hear that one of the pieces was actually Zolta’s work. He handed over his translator.

“Your apprentice does fine work. It’s a testament to his master’s teaching.” Winters stated evenly. His compliment seemed to achieve the desired result, a look of pride gracing the master’s face. Veera looked at him out of the corner of her eyes, paying close attention as she tested a leather tunic beneath her fingers. She wondered where he was going with this. Winters spoke again. “When does his apprenticeship end?”

“Next spring. At that point he will become a junior craftsman.” The master explained. His eyes lit up at Winters next pronouncement.

“I see. I’d like to commission a custom piece.”

“But of course! How may I be of service to you human?”

“I would like to hire Zolta, specifically.” Winters continued. Veera smirked, enjoying the look on the master’s face. He tentatively tried to correct Winters.

“I’m not sure how much you know of our customs human, but no apprentice is allowed to take work directly from a citizen until they have completed their apprenticeship.”

“Well, it’s a good thing I’m not a citizen then.” Winters replied coolly, raising a brow. “Now now, I’m not trying to ruin anyone’s day here. I am sure that we can arrange a portion of the payment to be directed to the temple or to you, depending on your custom. But Zolta has helped us out and I’d like to return the favor, get his career off on the right foot, you know? Of course his success would ultimately be your success, would it not? Would be a shame to deny him a chance to prove himself, especially now.” Winters’ argument seemed to have gotten through the moment he suggested public praise and compensation. The craftsman was holding his chin in his hand, thinking. After a moment he looked back at Winters.

“So long as your commission is for you and you alone, I see no problem with it. When you are ready, please find us at the temple after the festival and we can negotiate payment.”

“Excellent. A good day to you.”

“To you as well human, and you Veera.” He gave them a stiff nod. Veera said nothing but Winters figured her feathers would do the talking as she took his hand and moved them to the next stall, this one sporting various wooden carvings, mainly of the gods.

“You’re downright devious when you want to be, you know that?” Veera spoke just loud enough for him to hear over the ambient chatter.

“You said it yourself Veera, I’m a soldier who fights tooth and nail for what I want. I consider Zolta a friend, and I take care of my friends. It’s a bit of a silly system, isn’t it? You’re not allowed to build any business contacts or relationships until you’re on your own?”

“I wouldn’t go that far. Most apprentices are able to use the reputation of their master as a bridge in order to obtain jobs that will allow them to gain status on their own. But you will certainly be giving Zolta a leg up by dealing with him directly. News of that will surely get around.” Veera informed him, admiring his straightforward attitude about the whole situation.

“Perfect, that’s what I was hoping for. See anything you like here?” Winter asked, gesturing to the various carved idols and jewelry. Unlike with the food, it was clear that any physical goods would be bartered for. Veera shook her head, pointing instead to the next stall over. The items there were much more practical, mainly wooden dinnerware. There were even a couple small items of furniture that the various vendors were sitting on, performing a dual function of comfort and marketing.

“I believe someone was in the market for mugs?” She asked cheerfully, moving to inspect the craftsmanship. Winters nodded and followed just behind her, giving a polite nod to the Cauthan manning the stall. “What do you think about these?” She help up a cup for him, carved from a smooth, dark wood. It was unvarnished, but very well surfaced. It had no handle but it was thick enough that he was sure he wouldn’t burn himself. Its diameter allowed a comfortable fit inside his hand.

“You’d know the material better than I would. This is well made?” He asked.

“Yes. That particular wood is not very porous, so it makes for excellent cups, bowls, and the like. It’s rarer though.”

“I see. Will you ask them what they would like for two of them and if they’d accept credit?”

“That depends what you’re promising I’m sure, though I doubt they would…well let’s see.” Veera hailed the craftsman and began discussing the goods in question. Winters listened attentively and ensured the craftsman knew that he too was an interested party. In the end, Veera was able to come to an agreement. The mugs would be kept at the temple, on hold, until such time as payment could be rendered. Veera had looked questioningly at Winters, who assured her that he would soon be on the hunt. Given that he’d already promised Zolta a small compensation for parts and labor on his makeshift sheath, that seemed like as good a time as any. Satisfied, Veera took Winters’ hand again and led him on. The pair got an occasional look or two, but Winters noticed they were glances of curiosity. He was allowing Veera to initiate the contact, so there was no harm and no foul to his knowledge.

As they walked along, focusing on the point where their hands were into contact, Veera was hailed by the female attendant of another stall. They were most of the way around the southern arc, just short of the road that would lead on to the temples of Meylith and Kel. As the two spoke, Winters ascertained that she was one of the priestesses of the twin moons, the temple at which Asha was an apprentice. She had been a member of Veera’s cohort and had apparently found a mate at her second festival. Winters and Io shared a satisfied look between them as it became clear that the priestess was interested in Veera’s dress; the material, weave, and design. Winters nodded, letting go of Veera’s hand. She skipped around to the back of the stall, eager to show off her dress and, as the conversation went on, the craftsman who’d made it for her. Not wanting to seem eager for praise, Winters turned his back to the stall, gazing out over the grounds with a self-satisfied smile.

‘That must be nice for her, being able to brag about a man to others her age.’ Io remarked saucily.

“Ok Io, let’s play a little game then. You’re too much of a mischief loving flirt when idle.” He deflected, rubbing his neck. “You estimated this village could support around two hundred people when we got here. Now seems like a good time to test that theory, no?”

‘Oh, that is a good idea. A moment please!’ She changed back into her uniform.

“Really?”

‘What? Would you do science in yoga pants?’

“No. You’re quite the character Io, carry on.” He chuckled.

‘Would it have killed you to wear the Aegis today?’ She asked, putting on a show of struggling to count. He knew she was at least partially faking it.

“And miss all that lewd hand holding, skin on fur? You must be out of your mind woman.” He replied confidently.

‘Glad to see you’re both feeling playful today.’ Io continued, now focusing on her task. ‘It’s a rough estimate sir, but based on what I can see from here I would say the population is close to four hundred.’

“Number of guards?”

‘You’re still worried about how to kill everyone?’

“No, I’m worried what happens if another group of Cauthan decides that all this food is worth trying to get through those walls.” He told her seriously. It was something he’d had on the back of his mind ever since Veera had told him of the nomadic tribes that prowled the plains. He reasoned there could be others as well.

‘Ah, I see. Given that the guards are on rotation, between our many visits to the gate and that scene you caused here on our first visit I estimate we’ve seen them all. If so, the force totals around thirty to thirty five individuals. This would make sense. Seven hour shifts, nine individuals per shift, three to each gate. That leaves a few extra for…whatever else it is they do.’

“Makes sense to me too. Good work Io.”

‘Thank you sir.’

“Hey you!” Veera tapped him on the shoulder, giving him a little twirl as he spun to face her. “Did I ever thank you for this amazing dress?”

“Maybe once or twice, though I don’t mind hearing it again.” He informed her with a wink. She snuggled up to his side for a moment.

“She was fawning all over it. Made me feel elegant and beautiful.” She told him.

“You are.”

“Hmmm, you’re a blunt one.” She whispered, running her fingers over his upper arm. “You’re making this difficult, you know? It’s hard keeping myself under control when I’m next to you.”

“That so? What a shame.” He teased, indicating zero intention of stopping. That was fine by her. To say she’d had fun so far that day would be a significant understatement. Winters was clearly taking his own advice from the prior day. Life was too short. She hoped Zolta would seize the day, as they were.

“Where to next? If we keep going around we’ll hit the food stalls. Did you want to do anything before eating?” She asked, looking around. There had been a definite pick-up in activity since they’d departed the archery range. “Oh, that just freed up!” She indicated the rectangular roped off section dedicated to the test of strength, just to their left. Two older Cauthan men were departing, arms thrown over one another’s shoulder, laughing and panting from exertion. Winters shrugged non-committedly before noticing who was overseeing that particular activity. He grinned like the devil and began marching forward.

“Oy, Antoth! Let’s do this!” He was pointing to the both of them and at the rocks. Veera laughed heartily as she hustled to keep up. She was surprised when, instead of groaning, grunting, or displaying a lack of interest, Antoth developed his own predatory smile.

“Oh I’ve been waiting for this, human. Let’s see how you measure up against a real man, Winters!” The guard challenged, discerning Winters’ dare clear enough.

‘Veera, you said your people place bets on these sorts of things?’ Io asked excitedly in her ear as the two men sized one another up just outside the course.

“Oh yes, yes we do.” Veera could barely contain her excitement, her feathers quivering in anticipation.

‘Then let’s get to it! We have so many targets and so little time…’

“I’m on it Io.” Veera reassured the VI, stepping up on a nearby bench. She cleared her throat and yelled above the din. “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls! If you love the gods, stop everything you’re doing and haul tail because we’ve got a clash for the ages on our hands! The Captain, servant of Uthos, and everyone’s favorite grouchy guard Antoth will be taking on the aspect of Death himself, all the way from Earth, the human Winters in a test of strength!” A small crowd had formed around her, primarily wondering what all the noise was for. They began signaling to friends and family as they realized what exactly Veera was yelling about. She grinned as she upped the ante. “I wager the human wins by a half-length or more!” The crowd exploded.