Cooling Down

Chapters

A Warm Welcome
Meetings and Matches
Strong Competition
Duty Calls

A Warm Welcome

“WITNESS MY SPLENDOR!”

Velvet’s voice echoed around the stadium from a swirling pillar of wind and snow: only her silhouette was visible until she leaned out to throw a flurry of icicles at a pink doe.

“But you look better ven I can’t see you!”

Vixen dodged them all in a dance, with bursts of wind aiding her despite Velvet’s gale as she ducked, weaved, and jumped between attacks.

As she landed, a mound of icy spikes slid across the ground towards her, but she jumped just in time to avoid it.

Seeing an opening, Velvet lifted herself in the wind and raised her hooves, sending a rain of icicles in a line as she threw them down.

But Vixen twisted in the air, shifting her position again with a whirlwind and catching one of the icicles in it: spinning rapidly and flinging it back.

Velvet formed a barrier of ice to block, sliding from the force of it as the spiraling air dissipated and Vixen took her turn to attack.

Giant snowflakes spun into the air as she advanced in dramatic steps, bursting into white clouds on the ground as Velvet dodged with practiced agility.

Vixen spun on her hind legs to change their trajectory with a gust, hoping to catch Velvet off-guard, but was foiled when she had to dodge a speeding ice ball.

But before Velvet could begin her next attack, a whistle blew.

“Time!” Linen called. “The match is a draw.”

Velvet’s first winter sprite flinched at a stare from her reindeer, but it was quickly dropped.

“Very well, it vould seem that I played with my food for too long.”

“You ver tapped out.” Vixen chided as they walked together. “Admit it, you’ve met your match.”

“I had you on ze run!” Velvet raised her voice. “You barely had ze time to launch any of your... feeble little attacks.” She waved a hoof dismissively for emphasis.

“I’m just smart enough not to vaste energy!” Vixen shouted. “Precision instead of your simpleton brute force!”
The argument kept escalating in volume and detail, as Linen knew it would. She sighed and left to get Velvet’s post-training gingerbread coffee.

As soon as the door was closed, concern replaced haughtiness on Vixen’s face.

“Are you okay?” She followed Velvet into the hot tub. “You did not seem like yourself out zhere.”

“I am fine.” Velvet took a deep breath and closed her eyes. “You simply fought better zhen usual. Your training is paying off.”

“Flattery won’t get you out of zhis.” Vixen moved over to her, looking her in the eyes as she opened them. “Somezhing is bothering you: it vas too easy to dodge your attacks.”

“Zhen I do not wish to talk about it.” Velvet sighed. “Let us just enjoy ze moment.”

“In zhat case,” Vixen leaned in with half-lid eyes, “maybe somezhing else can help?”

They kissed, wrapping their forelegs around each other in the soothing water - until a knock ruined the moment.

“VHAT?!” Velvet yelled.

Linen cracked the door open with her eyes averted.

“Your father wishes to speak with you.”

Velvet took a quick breath, then stormed out of the water.

“Tell him I vill be there shortly. And have my coffee ready vhen we’re done!”

Stronghoof stood at the best seat in the stands: alone aside his omnipresent sprite, Vetr.

But Vetr found somewhere else to be as Velvet stomped up the stairs.

“You wanted to see me, father?”

“Yes.” He turned to her. “I admire how seriously you are taking your training, and the fury of your ice storm was a wonder to behold! And yet, I cannot ignore that you were…sloppy.”

He let the words hang in the air.

“I only needed a warm-up.” Velvet glanced to the side. “And Vixen’s dodging makes everyone’s aim look bad.”

“Do not try to fool me, daughter. I have seen you both fight too often.” He leaned in. “This is about the cow, isn’t it?”

Velvet’s flinch and glare gave it away before she could stop herself.

“Please,” Stronghoof stroked his floof, “elaborate.”

“I lost to a foolish, crude, baby of a bovine!” Velvet clenched her teeth. “Me, the great Velvet Hoofstrong! Greatest fighter in Reine, master of the Winter Arts, Champion of the Tundra! Foiled and humiliated by a bumpkin with a rope!” She sobbed. “I don’t think cows even have magic!”

Stronghoof brought a hoof down on the stone.

“Enough! This self-pity is unbecoming of you, as is this degradation of such a fine warrior!”

“A fine - she’s a cow.” Velvet’s eye twitched. “And a little one at that.”

“She is full of bravery and strength!” Stronghoof stomped again. “In her eyes I see the spirit of a true warrior, a hero who will never give up! And what’s more, I know her name: Arizona.”

“And why does that matter?” Velvet barely kept herself from rolling her eyes.

“Because she is the daughter of the legendary Texas! One of my old rivals. All the more reason she will be an excellent rival for you.”

“Rival?” Velvet looked up in surprise.

“Yes, a rival.” He said that word like it was something wonderful.

“Why, that reminds me of my greatest rival.” He started to smile.

Velvet made herself comfortable in a chair: she knew she’d be here for a while.

It’s not that I don’t care about my mother, but I was never old enough to know her.

“I boarded the pirate ship alone with Vetr, we fended off the ambush - and then she appeared.”

He sniffled.

“She was beautiful and strong, and I did not have the strength left in me to overcome.”

Tears began running down his eyes as he closed them.

“The day she spared me, I knew we were rivals for life. I had found a worthy opponent!”

He curled a hoof in emotion.

“I am not going to date ze cow, dad.”

Stronghoof bellowed in laughter.

“Rivalry and romance are a delightful mix, but you already have that in Miss Vixen.”

Velvet nearly fell out of the chair.

“Da - wha - you -”

“I know my daughter, Velvet. I see the passion in your eyes when you fight. But this is beside the point!”

He stomped again.

“You should savor your rivalry with Arizona, and let it drive you both to greater and grander heights!”

He pointed a hoof dramatically.

“And that begins with respecting her strength, so that you may respect your own. You did not lose to a baby, you lost to a mighty champion! And that will make your victory over her all the sweeter.”

Velvet finally smiled at that, narrowing her eyes.

“I think I see your point. The cow must throw her soul into training if she hopes to keep up with me!”

“That’s the spirit!” Stronghoof shouted. “There is no room for complacency in a rivalry with a Hoofstrong!”

Stronghoof lowered his pose at a tap on the shoulder and a whisper from Vetr.

“I have urgent business to attend, but I bid you to continue your training. It may be needed sooner than you expect.”

“I will. I won’t let anyone outpace me!”

As Velvet walked down the stairs, Vixen moved to walk alongside her from eavesdropping at its base.

“So, you have a new rival?” She bumped Velvet’s hip with a wink. “Should I be vorried?”

“Blegh!” Velvet gagged, “Shut up and fight!”

Earlier that day a ship approached the harbor carrying a very excited alpaca bouncing around a crowded room.

“What do you want to do first? Sledding? Snowfolk? Hot springs? Ooo, I’ve heard about Reine but now I’m finally here!”

“Let’s calm things down a notch.”

Arizona double checked her bags on the bed.

“We’ve gotta visit the museum first for the clue, remember? They wanna copy it, and we need someone who can read it.”

“Oh, right.” Paprika briefly stopped bouncing. “So museum tour first!”

Arizona chuckled at her excitement.

“Tell ya what, ah’ve already been to Reine, so you can pick what we do. Ah’m sure it’ll take ‘em a bit to figure everything out anyway.”

Paprika pulled her into another sudden, but not unexpected hug.

“Ooo, this is going to be so much fun!” She suddenly pulled away with a gasp. “That reminds me, you need your gift!”

“Gift?”

“I made you a sweater!” Before Arizona could process the words, she’d pulled it out and started to button it onto her. Suspiciously, it was the exact color of Paprika’s fleece.

“Now we match!”

Paprika showed off the red bandana around her neck.

“It’s the least I could do since you gave me this, and I hear it’s cold in Reine!”

“I, ah, thank ya kindly!” Arizona blushed at the cutesy matching outfits. “When did ya make this?”

“Oh, while I was waiting for you to wake up.” Paprika zoomed around checking the fit. “If it’s too tight I can make another real quick.”

“It’s perfect.” Arizona stretched to test it. “Feels warm, too.”

They left for the deck with their saddlebags packed, with Paprika somehow squeezing hers through the doors, and watched the ship pull into port sitting in the open air.

A cold wind blew across the ocean as they approached, reminding Arizona how much she regretted not bringing something to wear last time.

“Thanks again for the sweater.” She smiled up at Paprika. “Forgot how cold it gets here. Hope ya didn’t lose too much fleece.”

“Anything for my friend!” Paprika lit up. “And don’t worry, I made that from my extra fleece bag.”

“Extra fleece?” Arizona asked.

“Yep!” Paprika nodded. “I like to make stuff for my friends. And I can always sell extra to ships when they pass by: alpaca fleece is great for travelers because alpacas are great travelers!”

“Guess that makes sense.” Arizona tilted her head. “Is that how ya got the salt for flour and whatnot?”

“They also buy pots!” Paprika bent her neck down to talk at eye level. “Adobo always said it was too dangerous to make a trip down the mountains just to buy stuff, but some things are worth it.”

“Your cooking sure is.”

“Aww, thank you!”

They sat together until the ship finally arrived and the captain approached to greet them.

“We are ready to disembark. Please, follow me to the museum.’

Paprika somehow kept walking in a straight line as she craned her neck to look at everything, and Arizona couldn’t help but share her enthusiasm.

Travelin’ together sure is more fun than goin’ it alone.

As they walked Paprika pointed to a sign.

“What does that say?”

“Aw, Pap, do we have to practice now?”

Paprika responded with a growl until Arizona sighed and stared at the letters.

“S…H..P. Shop?” She looked up to the alpaca.

“Yes!” Paprika patted her head. “See, you’re getting it!”

Stoically ignoring the conversation behind him, the captain led them through the museum’s doors and to the front desk.

“I need to speak to the director, it is a matter of utmost urgency! I have -” he glanced back, “delivered valuable information regarding the Key.”

“Right away, sir.” The docent nodded and walked off. Shortly after an older reindeer walked through the door.

“The Key, you say?” He leaned in to look at the visitors behind him. “Have you already contacted the Jarl concerning the bounty?”

“I sent my sprite first thing.” The captain nodded as Arizona stepped up.

“Hold on, bounty?”

“On information.” The director explained. “Finding the Key is a top priority for Reine and Foenum as a whole, so Jarl Stronghoof put a bounty on delivering relevant information.”

The captain tried to hide his alarm. “I can split it with you, of course.”

“Nah, keep it.” Arizona waved him away, with a nod and affirming purr from Paprika. “A good deed is its own reward.”

“But first,” the director said, “I’ll need to see what you uncovered.”

“Here!” Paprika fished out the sketchbook and sat it on the desk.

The director handled it with much more care than she had as he slowly turned the pages, eyes widening as he studied it.

“This is an excellent recreation! You have a talent for archaeology: speak with me if you’d be interested in a position.”

“Aw, thanks! But I’m kinda busy.” Paprika drooped a foreleg around Arizona. “We’ve got to save the word!”

He closed the book with a nod and turned his attention to them.

“Ah, the Champion of the Prairie. Apologies for not addressing you sooner. You put up an impressive fight! Thankfully outside of the museum.” He chuckled.

“Thanks.” Arizona said as she broke eye contact, not sure how to respond to the praise as he turned to Paprika.

“So I take it that you were her guide?”

“She’s more than that,” Arizona grinned, “she’s the Champ’een of the High Plains!”

"Champions working together…" The director spoke under his breath. "Interesting."

He cleared his throat and spoke at a normal volume.

“Honored to meet you then. Now with your permission, our finest archivists will copy your work for our own study so we can return the original. When the translation is done, we promise to share what we learned. Is that a deal?”

“Deal!” Paprika bumped his hoof a little too enthusiastically, leaving him shaking it off.

“So how long’s this gonna take?” Arizona asked.

“Oh the copying should take a several hours, at least.” The director smiled. “I would recommend enjoying the city in the meantime.

“No, I mean, how long’s figurin’ this out gonna take?” Arizona corrected.

The director paused to think, running through estimations in his head.

“Days, if we are very lucky. Maybe weeks, probably months.”

“Months?!” Arizona recoiled. “This can’t wait months!”

“I’m afraid it may have to.” The director asserted. “This is a dead language, and we will need to get every scrap of it we can find from our sister museums if we hope to interpret it. It will have our full attention, but under normal circumstances this can take years.”

Arizona’s eyes widened. “So what are we supposed to do ‘till then?”

“How about a tour?” Paprika suggested.

“Be our guest!” The director smiled again, happy for the change in subject. “I’ll call a docent.”

He rang a service bell, and a familiar face greeted them at the desk. “Oh, it’s you! Please, follow me!”

Paprika seemed fascinated by everything as they made their way through the museum, seeming to appear in front of different exhibits whenever they turned their back.

Arizona pointed out some of her favorites, but the worry of being stuck in their quest weighed on her.

When the docent paused for a break, she took the opportunity to whisper to Paprika in private.

“Ah’m not sayin’ ya shouldn’t be, but how are you so carefree an’ happy? The predators are comin’ back and we’re stuck here waitin’ on a lead.”

“That’s one way of looking at it. You could also say that we’ve got so much extra time to relax now! Let’s just have fun and worry about that when we get to it.”

“That makes sense, I guess.” Arizona idly kicked a hoof on the floor. “Just don’t like sittin’ here while everyone's countin’ on us.”

“You worry too much, silly.”

Paprika ruffled her head fur, getting a look.

“If you’re always thinking about the hard stuff in life you’ll never appreciate the good things: you can’t wear yourself out like that. So take a rest when you can so you’re ready for the harder stuff when it comes.”

“That…sounds pretty wise, really.” Arizona smiled.

“Adobo put it a little differently.” Paprika shrugged. “It’s worked for me so far.”

The docent came back shortly after.

“Sorry for the wait. Now, these Huacayan Pots…Nevermind, you probably know all about them.”

“Ooo, wherever made these did a good job!” Paprika spun around them. “Used an eeensy bit of the wrong clay here, though.”

She tapped the side of a pot, getting a flinch from the docent as it wobbled.

"Please don’t touch the exhibits."

Paprika gasped at the wall painting artifact, and started copying it until the docent showed her a souvenir scroll.

“This is an exact replica. Just take it, please.”

Their docent seemed increasingly nervous about having the excitable alpaca in the museum, but Arizona insisted on seeing her favorite painting one more time.

As they finally left, they found a massive buck and a burly winter sprite waiting for them, both of whom Arizona immediately recognized.

“Welcome, brave champions!”

He greeted with a booming voice.

“I hear that you have recovered a valuable clue in your search for the Key, no doubt facing perilous predators on the way!”

“Pretty sure we’re the perilous ones.” Paprika struck what might have been a battle pose.

“Hmph!” Stronghoof chuckled. “You said it, my friend.”

He cleared his throat to compose himself.

“In gratitude and respect for fellow warriors, I now invite you to stay at the Hooftstrong Family Lodge! You will not find finer room and board in all of Reine.”

“Uh,” Arizona shared a glance with Paprika. “How much would that cost us?”

“Cost!” Stronghoof laughed, though Vetr seemed less enthusiastic.

“Don’t be ridiculous! It would be my honor to host you free of charge and to reward your efforts. Even a champion’s quest needs salt for some things, am I right?”

“Sure, and we appreciate it,” Arizona tried to think of what to say, “but don’t ya already have a champion? Why help us?”

“The glory of Key Keeper, Supreme Champion of Foenum can indeed be held only by one!”

Stronghoof struck a pose with his hoof up.

“But that must be earned by deeds, not favoritism. And while the Key remains hidden, that contest is premature, is it not? So let me do what I can to aid your quest. Oh, what I would do to take your place!”

“Just don’t wanna be a burden. You sure ya don’t mind?

“I said it would be my honor.” Stronghoof grinned. “And our lodge hosted the entire Foenum Council of Elders: it will be no trouble at all. Now come! You must be weary from your travels.”

With Paprika’s smile and Stronghoof’s insistence, and thoughts of absurd inn prices, Arizona gave it up and followed him to the outskirts of the city.

The Hoofstrong Family Lodge was a massive structure, with double doors that could comfortably fit an elephant under a wall sconce lit, ruby stained glass window: all flanked by two enormous wood sculpture antlers that towered above the roof.

“We get to say here?!” Paprika bounced more enthusiastically than Arizona had ever seen. “This is amazing!”

“Please,” Stronghoof smiled, “enjoy yourselves until the translations are done and it is time to face the wilds again. Now, let the sprites handle the packing as we share a meal: you must be hungry!”

With that Vetr stomped twice, and a swarm of winter sprites poured out of the house.

The fastest three of them zoomed over to Arizona’s saddlebags and carried them off while the rest hovered around Paprika’s mountain of supplies, murmuring something Arizona couldn’t understand.

“Uh, multiple trips?”

“How’s she even carrying this!”

“She’s not even a reindeer!”

“Stop talking and start lifting.” Vetr gave what sounded like instructions. “Team lift if you must.”

He grabbed the top bag by himself as the rest struggled with five to one: but soon the guests were relieved of their burdens and following Stronghoof into the hall.

Stronghoof had ordered a feast, and neither Arizona nor Paprika had seen anything like it in quantity or variety of food.

“Please, sit.” Stronghoof lowered himself onto a table cushion. “And regale me with your tales of valor!”

Winter sprites moved constantly around them as they ate, serving them anything they desired.

Paprika looked like she could hardly contain her excitement as she tried everything, somehow speaking the sprite’s language to ask questions on different dishes between eating noisily.

Meanwhile Arizona felt content in a way she’d rarely experienced, and quickly got along with the Jarl as he urged her to continue her story.

“An’ then after spittin’ a rain of poison at me, that slitherin’ scoundrel swung his tail all across the divide! While ah was landin’ from jumpin’ it he lunged, like he was tryin’ ta swallow me whole. ‘Course he only ate dust when I dashed on outta there an’ gave him a good kick to remember me by, and while he was dizzy ah finished him off with a big stomp!”

“Excellent!” Stronghoof pounded the table. “A battle worthy of this hall!”

Arizona failed to notice Paprika’s concern as he continued.

“But tell me, how is your old bull? Still slinging those bells?”

“He’s still the best -” Arizona paused with a glance backwards, “er, maybe second best fighter in the prairie! Ah’ve beat him in trainin’, but it weren’t formal or nothin’. And ah think his back was actin’ up.”

“Your humility is admirable.” Stronghoof sighed. “Alas, age catches up to us all eventually. But it warms my heart to hear that he still fights on: I shall have to arrange for a rematch.”

“Ah've heard his stories about throwin’ down with a big strong reindeer; guessin’ that was you.”

“Indeed. He stopped in Reine frequently in his adventuring days, and I would not let him leave without another match! Those were good times.”

As conversation paused for another round of chewing, the main doors opened.

“What’s for lunch? It smells good, and I'm - YOU!”

Velvet rushed over to the table as Arizona swallowed and Stronghoof cleared his throat to speak.

“This is my daughter, Velvet.” He motioned to Arizona. “I believe you two have already met.”

“I'm Paprika, nice to meet you!”

Velvet barely glanced at her before turning her glare to Stronghoof.

“Why are zey here?”

“Manners.” Stronghoof stared. “They, like you, have a great journey ahead of them for the good of Foenum: it is the least I could do to host them. And they brought back a valuable clue on the key's location.”

“Vhat?!” Velvet looked between them.

“Uh,” Arizona started, not sure how to gauge the situation, “you were right about the High Plains. We found a big monument with the Prophet's story written all over it. So, uh, thanks.”

Velvet's mouth hung open before she took a breath to regain her composure and took a seat.

“Very well, I vould expect nothing less from my rival.”

“Rival?” Paprika asked around a mouthful of food.

“Yes!” Velvet looked to Arizona. “Arizona of ze Prairie, I challenge you to a rematch! I vill not be outdone!”

“Uh,” Arizona looked around at the food, “can it wait a bit?”

“Fine!” Velvet took a serving of moss salad from an ice sprite server.

“We vill battle at ze stadium tomorrow zen, so that all may witness my victory!”

She pointed a hoof at the cow.

“But I expect you to train for a worthy fight.”

Arizona was about to make a retort when Stronghoof spoke.

“Excellent idea!” Everyone turned to him.

“With three Champions in Reine, there could not be a finer time for a tournament! I will make arrangements immediately!”

“I will inform them, then.” Vetr said. “What should I say?”

“Grand prize, 10,000 salt!” Stronghoof declared: his guests stared in disbelief. “Second place 4,000, 2,000 for both semifinalists, and catered meals for all brave enough to attend!”

“Very well.” Vetr nodded and left.

“Ten thousand salt?!” Arizona exclaimed in disbelief.

“That's a looot of plushies.” Paprika seemed lost in thought.

Even Velvet seemed concerned. “I vill vin, of course, but isn't zat excessive?”

“Bah,” Stronghoof scoffed, “what's the point of wealth if you can't enjoy it? This tournament will inspire valor in the hearts of Reine!”

Ah think i see where she got the drama from. Arizona thought.

“But vat if ze cow…” Velvet stopped herself and pointed to Arizona again. “Nevermind! I vill see you in ze grand finals! Do not disappoint me.”

Arizona leaned in as they stared at each other from across the table.

“Ah'll be happy ta bring ya down to earth again, miss high an’ mighty.”

They both missed Stronghoof's smile at their antics before he interrupted.

“Well, it would seem we all have some training to do! But please, accept some salt from me to enjoy the city before you go.”

A winter sprite nodded and left to fetch some salt bags.

“You are welcome to use our practice yard, and to stay here for as long as you find yourself in Reine.”

He stood up from the table.

“I will begin my training now: be ready for me.”

Once he'd left, the guests turned to Velvet.

“Don't vait on me, I'm hungry.” She waved a hoof.

Arizona took a few last bites before standing up.

“Well, thank ya for sharin’ your home with us.”

“Um,” Velvet blinked, clearly surprised by the gesture.

“You are velcome. My rival must be at her absolute best before her inevitable defeat!”

“Yeah, whatever.” Arizona rolled her eyes. “Meet ya outside, Pap.”

The reindeer and the alpaca ate in silence for awhile.

“And vhat are you supposed to be?”

“Her friend.” Paprika stretched her neck across the table as Velvet leaned away. “You should be nicer to her.”

“Is zhat a threat?” Velvet forced her face forward.

“Nope!” Paprika got up. “Just advice. See you in the tournament~!”

She added in a sing-songy voice as she strutted away, humming as she walked.

For some reason Velvet couldn't explain, she felt nervous.

With a concrete goal to focus on again, Arizona was eager to train for the tournament.

But her friend was currently set on making snowfolk, so she found herself looking for matching sticks to add horns.

It was the first time either of them had tried it, but Paprika substituted enthusiasm for experience.

“Done!” She stood in front of it for the final presentation.

“Okay, done.” Arizona presented her blocky cow once the horns were in.

“Like how ya did the neck.”

“Ah, yours looks just like you!”

Arizona wasn't sure whether to feel complimented or offended, but that thought was cut off by another voice.

“Not bad!”

They turned to see a young, brown buck fawn and a freckled doe fawn with darker fur approaching.

“Especially since I doubt you get much snow where you're from.” He added.

“Howdy.” Arizona walked up to them with Paprika. “Yeah, ah I think we're both pretty new to this. Ah've only been in Reine once, an’ not for long.”

“First time! What's your names? I'm Paprika! And this is Arizona!”

She grinned, pulling the cow towards her.

“Oh, we've heard of you.” He said. “I'm Dasher.”

“Dancer.” The doe followed. “And before you ask, yes, we're twins.”

“Wait…” Arizona paused to think. “Yer in the Elite 7, right?”

“Basically grew up in it.” Dasher nodded. “We heard you were staying here, and were wondering if you'd like someone to show you around.”

“He wants you to train him.” Dancer smirked, getting a look from her brother.

“Train?” Arizona tilted her head.

“Well,” he looked away, “it's not everyday someone beats Velvet in a fight. Just wanted to…well, I'm a fan.”

Paprika and Dancer shared a glance that Arizona missed.

“Sure, ah’d be happy to! Are y'all joinin’ the tournament too?”

“Uh, yeah!” he said. “Gotta train. But, we can give a tour if you'd like first! That is, if you'd like to hang out.”

“Best start with that.” Dancer nodded. “Else you'll have too many bruises for it.”

He stared at her again as Paprika laughed.

“How about ice skating first?” She suggested. “I can show you how.”

Dancer started skating before they reached the lake, forming a layer of ice in
front of her hooves ending on a ramp: she flew off it and landed in a confident spin.

“Whooa-!” Paprika gasped. “Let me try!”

Paprika's first attempt lead to her sliding face first on the ice, but she was up again just as quickly.

“Here,” Dancer chuckled and moved to steady her, “Let's cover basics first.”

Arizona was more cautious, but nearly fell several times before Dasher steadied her and helped her off the ice.

“Your hooves may be a bit broad for this, but I've got an idea. Can you raise a leg?”

“Uh, sure.” Arizona said, not sure where he meant.

Dasher touched the hoof as his horns glowed, and a blade of ice grew over the rim.

“Is that too cold?” He sounded uncertain.

“Nah, feels like steppin’ in snow.”

Arizona held the hoof up to examine it.

“But how's this gonna help skating?”

“Skating works by cutting the ice a bit as you slide on it. It's easier with narrower hooves.”

He explained.

“Let me do the other hooves and I'll show you.”

Arizona struggled to walk to the ice as he half-carried her, but once she was on it and steadied she felt an immediate difference in traction.

“Okay, let's take it slow first.” He said. “You can lean on me.”

She wobbled on the ice as she adjusted to the skates, frequently needing his help to avoid falling, but soon she was sliding forward on her own: she was going slow, but she was skating.

“You're right, this is better!”

“Glad you like it!”

Dasher was content to slowly slide around with Arizona, steadying her and periodically resharpening her ice skates.

Meanwhile Paprika zoomed around the ice trying to keep up with Dancer, seemingly unphased by her frequent falls.

“Love the enthusiasm,” Dancer helped her up again, “but you should be more careful.”

“I'm fine, but I appreciate the concern! Now can you show me how to do a spin?”

“Fine, but take it slow at first, okay?” She skated off. “Now, it's all in the center of mass.”

As she demonstrated a basic spin, a pink deer slid up to Arizona and Dasher.

“Having fun vith our guests?”

“Oh, hey!” Dasher turned. “We were, uh, showing them around.”

“He's been nice.”

Arizona spoke up, noticing an odd smile from Vixen.

“Ah'm Arizona, what's your name?”

“Vixen.”

She she offered a hoofshake before tapping the blade instead as she noticed it.

“Nice vork, Dash.” She looked back to Arizona. “I've heard a lot about you. Had to see ze mighty cattlegirl for myself.”

“Really?” Arizona asked. “Ah've only been here once.”

“Vell you made quite ze splash.” Vixen shrugged. “Missed your big fight: looking forward to a good show tomorrow.”

“Ah'll do my best!”

“I hear you're staying vith Velvet. Zhat must be interesting.”

“Well...she's pretty rude to be honest.”

“She's a sore loser.” Vixen rolled her eyes. “Why, she's been obsessed vith me since I beat her once.”

Dasher opened his mouth to comment, but shut it as Vixen glanced at him.

“Ah can understand that, I guess. Feelin’ competive an’ doin’ some trash talk. But her dad's great, so ah reckon she can't be all bad.”

“Nice to hear you’re getting along.” Vixen glanced between them. “Vell I'll let you get back to it. I need to get some practice in.”

“Nice to meet ya, Vixen!” Arizona gave another improvised hoofbump.

“You as vell. Enjoy your time with Dashy!”

She waved and skated away.

“Dashy?” Arizona turned to him.

“It's, uh,” he looked away for a moment, “an Elite 7 thing! We give each other nicknames.”

“Ah like it.”

Luckily, Arizona decided to check her hooves instead of watching his reaction.

“Kinda cute. You can call me Ari if ya want.”

“Um, thanks, Ari.” He moved to her side to help her skate and hide his face.

As they continued skating, Vixen snuck around to the field where she knew Velvet practiced privately.

She heard icicles bursting on stone before she saw her weaving around an imagined opponent.

“Care for a sparring partner?”

“You fight nothing like her.” Velvet briefly glanced at her as another icicle shattered.

“Are you sure she's the one you should worry about?”

“If she does make it to me, I need to be ready. I've beaten everyone else, after all.”

“Vhat about the alpaca?”

“How hard could she be?” The air cracked with the impact of hailstones.

“Sounds a lot like what you said last time.”

“Well I also doubt she has winter magic.” Velvet turned to her. “Look, I appreciate ze company, but I need to focus. So if you have anything else to say, say it now.”

“Fine. I think you should be more welcoming to your guests.”

“What do you mean by that? We are rivals, but that doesn't mean we need to like each other.”

“First off, they seem nice to me. But more Importantly, why do you zhink your father hosted this tournament?”

Velvet rolled her eyes.

“Because he likes fighting, he likes showing off, and he wanted to give me a rematch.”

“Obviously, but I think there’s more to it than that. He hosted the Council of Elders in his home because he wanted to unite the ungulates. I think this is more of the same.”

“They are not officials, though.” Velvet raised a hoof. “Why would they matter?”

“Think about it: two foreign champions visiting Reine invited to stay at his lodge, and to participate in a friendly competition where they are likely to win salt. It sends a message that Reine is happy to work with other tribes. And that makes them more likely to share information with us, so you can find the key sooner.”

Velvet narrowed her eyes.

“So you're saying I need to be friends with them to save ze vorld?”

“No,” Vixen put a hoof on her shoulder. “I'm saying it'd help for you to be friendly. But you might give them a chance: you tend to push others away.”

“Bah! Zhat’s getting too sappy.” Velvet took a deep breath. “But you may have a point on ze tournament. I can…give zhem a chance.”

“Zhat is all I ask.”

“Zhen go!” Velvet pointed dramatically. “Before I use you as target practice.”

“You couldn't hit m-” Vixen was interrupted by her kiss.

“...Very well, you vin this round.”

“Dasher! There you are, and I see you’ve made a friend.”

A large reindeer with a faded blue coat and yellow antlers approached, finding Dasher and Arizona sitting by the lake.

“Ah, Blitzen!” Dasher stood at attention. “Wasn’t expecting you here.”

“Calm down; we’re not on a mission.”

Arizona stepped forward as Dasher tried to relax.

“Blitzen as in the Elite Seven?”

“Indeed! It’s good to hear that our tales have traveled.”

“Actually, I heard it from some fan standin’ around the HQ. She near talked my ear off.”

“Oh. Her.” Blitzen spoke for both bucks as they grimaced. “We have to fog up the windows sometimes.”

“Guess not all fame is good. But what was that about missions? Ah, mean aside that secret one?”

“Aside the one we won’t talk about,” Blitzen glanced at Dasher, “we are Reine’s elite! We go where we are needed to keep everyone safe, and it’s needed now more than ever.”

Paprika skated over to join the conversation. “But don’t you have walls? I didn’t think Reindeer traveled much.”

“We’re not nomadic, if that’s what you mean. But Reine City depends on trade from outside the walls, and someone needs to deal with predator sightings.”

“Wish ah could stop ‘em for y’all right now, but that inscription’s our only lead.”

“There’s no shame in a well earned rest," Blitzen smiled down on her, "but if this does take longer it’d be an honor to have you join us in a mission.”

“If it means keepin’ folks safe, count me in!”

“Me too!” Paprika seconded Arizona.

“Then I’ll be sure to let you know if something comes up! But in the meantime, how about some sparring to get ready?”

Arizona stretched and took off her coat, handing it to Paprika.

“Ah could use the practice."

“Splendid!” Blitzen grinned.

“Ooh, can I go next?”

He glanced at the bouncing Alpaca.

“I'll take that challenge, right after this cow surrenders.”

“Yer about to eat those words!”

“Then we start at the sound of the whistle. Thundra! Count us down from three.”

The two stared each other down until the whistle blew, and they both rushed in.

Ice coated and extended Blitzen's long antlers as they scored a swipe on Arizona, knocking her off balance and leaving her open to a spinning kick.

“Too easy!”

The cow flew back through the air and quickly righted herself.

“Not a scratch!”

Blitzen narrowed his eyes and charged again with his iced horns as Arizona reared up for a stomp.

The shockwave shook the ground, nearly tripping Blitzen from a range where he thought himself safe.

Crack!

He'd barely readied himself before she was upon him, locking horns to deny his reach.

He shoved forward, expecting strength to be a strong suit, but to his shock he was pushed back: struggling to control his neck as she tried to flip him over.

But out of the corner of his eye he saw the lake riddled with cracks, and made a plan.

Putting all his strength into steadying his head, he breathed ice on the ground in front of him and let himself be pushed back.

Seizing the advantage, Arizona surged forward and slipped.

With the pressure suddenly gone, he lowered his horns before flinging them up as high as possible as he stood: bringing Arizona's horns with them and flinging her into the air over the pond.

CRACK!

She crashed through the ice into the frigid water below as Blitzen and the spectators rushed forward.

He lowered his horns to freeze the hole around her as she tried to get up.

“Okay, ah see your point. You win this round.”

“Victory!” He cheered before catching himself at the looks from the others. “I mean, here, grab on.”

With some help from her and the others, he stomped the ice loose again. He then lowered his antlers to the hole and steadily pulled the cow out as she bit and held onto them.

“T-that's only round one.” She shivered as she took a stance. “Nice trick, but it won't work twice.”

“No!” Paprika shocked everyone by picking her up in a hug. “You were in there too long, you need to warm up!”

“Ah'm fine, ah just -” Arizona's eyes widened as she felt the grip tighten.

“Okay, okay! Ah'll warm up a bit.”

“She's right,” Dasher said. “Cold water is dangerous, and you don't want to risk getting sick before the tournament.”

“I'll take you back to the lodge.” Paprika started to walk on two legs somehow as her friend pushed away.

“Ah can walk there on mah own!” Paprika let her go, but still loomed over her with concern.

“Look, ah'll go straight to the lodge and warm up a bit, you don't have ta worry. I'll meet y’all afterwards: don’t have to cut things short for me.”

“Fine, then sit by the fire till you're dry, then put this on, then sit there till you're warm. And. Toasty! Okay?”

“Uh, sure, yeah.” Arizona glanced back to Blitzen and tried to save face. “Ah'm not gettin’ sick, so ya best be ready for the rematch!”

“I look forward to it,” he said a little too smugly.

Paprika watched her friend jog away until she was a blur in the distance, then turned to Blitzen.

“So, ready for our match?”

Arizona jogged as fast as her cold legs could take her.

With the rush of competition gone and a wind picking up she felt chilled to the bone

As she approached the doors, she saw several sprites chiseling an Arizona-shaped ice sculpture as Velvet directed them: stopping as one of the sprites pointed her out.

“Goodness, vhy are you so wet? Nevermind: get inside and we'll talk by ze fire.”

Arizona followed Velvet to the fireplace and rested as close as she could get to it.

“Linen! Fetch tea for our guest.”

A sprite nodded and zoomed off as others toweled her off and Velvet sat down next to her. She let the cow warm up in silence for a while before curiosity took hold.

“So vhat happened? An accident on ze lake?”

“Aachoo! Pardon.”

Arizona sniffled.

“Not really, just ended up sparin’ with Blitzen. Got me in the water with a trick: ah could've taken him next round, but Pap -”

“You lost to Blitzen?!”

Velvet stood up.

“Uh…yeah?”

Arizona sat up and leaned away as she glared at her from inches away.

“Stupid cow! You are my rival, you lose to me and only me, and especially not to Blitzen. Is zhat understood?!”

“It was just a sparin’ match.”

Arizona stood up and pushed her away

“Why do you care so much anyway?”

Velvet's horns glowed, chilling the room subconsciously.

“Because you are my rival! You losing makes me look bad.”

“Everyone loses sometimes. Like my Pa always says -”

“I don't care what he says!” Velvet clacked her hoof on the floor. “Hoofstrongs don't lose!"

“Clearly you do.”

Velvet gasped and stomped out of the room, keeping her back turned to hide her face.

“Vell I'm not losing to you again vith zhat attitude. See you in ze tournament!”

Arizona watched her leave until the door slammed, but jerked as she was pulled into a hug from behind.

“Don’t listen to her, you did great!”

“Pap? When’d you get here?”

“In time to hear what happened. That was mean.”

Arizona wondered how long she’d be here until Paprika released the hug, but didn’t mind the heat or the concern.

“Ah’ll be fine. Ya didn’t have to come check on me.”

“Oh, the others left.” Paprika stretched her neck around to talk face to upside down face. “Something about elite seven business, and Blitzen had to dry off.”

“Dry off? Did ya win the fight?”

“Yep!” Paprika nodded. “I kissed him!”

“You…What?”

“Oh, we danced around a bit, then I got him in front of the hole, then I kissed him! Then he stumbled back and tripped.”

Paprika giggled. “Everyone laughed, it was fun!”

“That’s one way to do it, I guess.” Arizona blinked.

Paprika didn’t seem interested in letting go yet, so Arizona decided to relax and make the best of it.

“Thanks Pap, you’re a good friend.”

“Thank you! You’re my best friend!”

As the heat started to feel uncomfortable, Arizona tried to change the subject.

“So, did they say what the elite seven stuff was about?”

“Oh, no biggie. Just some weird noises in a basement, said they didn't need Blitzen for that.”

Arizona jerked out of the hug.

“Basement?! We’ve gotta help ‘em!”

Arizona took off running with a confused Paprika right on her heels.

“Help with what?”

“Predators!”

Shortly after a confused Winter Sprite peeked out holding a cup of tea.

Velvet slammed the door behind her and stirred up a wind as she approached the training grounds, eager to make a new cattle shaped sculpture to practice on.

“Hooftstrongs don't lose, eh?”

The wind died out as she turned to face her father.

“Yes, I couldn't help but overhear.”

“You told me that.” She stared back at him.

“No, I told you that Hoofstrongs don't lose easily. We don't give up. I’d hoped that our earlier talk would have made that clear.”

“Well she didn't seem to take it seriously.”

“You confuse accepting loss gracefully with a lack of conviction.” He walked past her. “Come, sit and talk with me.”

Velvet grumbled and followed him under a tree. With the grounds silent around them, he began.

“I've already told you about my rival Texas, but I think you would benefit from hearing the full story.”

“Fine. What about him?”

“We had our first battle when I was still a young buck. I already had a reputation as a practiced warrior, and after defeating my latest challenger I called to the crowd for another. To my surprise, a burly young bull strode out! His strength was incredible.”

“So you found a worthy rival, I get it.”

“Wrong!” Stronghoof stamped the snow. “I won that battle fairly easily. He was not ready for Winter Magic.”

“Then why do you call him a good rival?”

“Let me finish. Despite his defeat, he laughed it off and insisted on a rematch the next day, which he lost again. And the next, and next. Got close the second time really, but I won every bout. Then with his ship’s departure imminent, he promised that he'd come back stronger. When he returned he had a yoke tied to heavy bells: he told me that it was inspired by my ice weapons. I didn't think much of it until one caught me in the face, with a pile driver following to give him his first win. It was as glorious as it was painful!”

“Are you saying I need to adjust tactics?”

“Perhaps. But more importantly, you need to grow from defeat and have a healthier relationship with it. We fought many times after that, and neither of us could afford to be proud and complacent: that way of thinking will ensure that you are surpassed.”

“But I’m not complacent!” Velvet stared back. “You know I practice every day!”

“Indeed, but that is not enough. A little humility will give you the strength to grow from losses instead of being crushed by them, and you should not look down on it in others. ”

“...I see your point.” Velvet looked down at the snow and took a breath. “She was confident in defeat, while I've obsessed over it. ”

She stood up.

“I need to talk to her.”

“Indeed.”

Arizona rushed down the stairs in time to see Dasher and Dancer inspecting a familiar ghostly flame in the doorways.

“Get out of there! It’s -” She skidded to a halt as flames erupted in front of her with Paprika almost bumping her into it.

The twins spun in her direction, eyes widening as they realized they were cut off, but three wolves blipping into existence from the shadows drew their attention.

“Predators here?!” Dancer exclaimed as her brother reacted faster, flinging a wolf at the wall with a wind-boosted antler rush, where its shadowy body deformed from the impact.

“Less talking, more fighting!”

He jumped between her and another wolf as blades of ice flashed onto her hooves.

The wolf nearest her pounced, but she dodged with a pirouette on the suddenly frozen floor: slashing into it twice as it snarled in pain.

Paprika tried to shove past, but Arizona held out a hoof to stop her.

“Don’t! Ya can’t push past it, ah tried. Just take ‘em down and this’ll fall!”

The third wolf lunged to bite Dasher’s leg, but he countered with a step back to dodge and a strike to the head.

“Look out!” Arizona cried out as the previously wallstuck wolf leapt towards him from the side and he jumped back too late: but a spinning blade of ice caught it and knocked it off course, tumbling in a heap.

“Thanks, sis!”

“Don’t mention it!” Dancer quickly reformed her ice skate as she finished her spinning dodge, barely outmaneuvering the wolf on her by pushing off the wall and sliding under a pounce.

With one wolf still getting up and another out of position, Dasher took a risk and rocketed himself into the one attacking his sister.

Slam!

His glowing horns pinned it to the wall before he twisted and sent it sliding on the ice towards the fiery doorway, with a rush of wind accelerating it.

Arizona took a step back as it vanished into mist on impact, with Paprika cheering.

Dancer threw two ice blades to slow the now charging wolves: one stopped and braced the impact while the other dodged with a sidestep before lunging towards her.

Caught off-guard, she did her best to hold it at bay as it tackled her to the ground: teeth gnashing as its claws scored glancing cuts through her floof.

But just as quickly it was sent flying by a buck from Dasher, tumbling across the room.

The other wolf closed the gap before Dasher could turn around, looking to strike his sister while she was down, but she rolled out of the way leaving slick ice behind.

It immediately lost its footing and was sent flying by Dasher’s horns: sailing over Dancer before slamming into its companion as both dispersed into clouds.

The twins sprung into a back to back position, breathing heavily and looking for other threats: they flinched as the flames receded and the champions rushed towards them.

“Golly, are you okay?!”

“I’m fine.” Dasher panted. “You?”

“Nothing serious.” Dancer felt her neck floof with a wince. “Got a scratch in, but I’m not bleeding.”

“That was amazing!” Paprika pulled the surprised doe into a hug. “Scary, but amazing! You really are elites!”

“Thanks! Glad you could see us in action.” Dasher smiled back, turning to Arizona as Dancer rolled her eyes behind him.

“How’d you know about the flame things, though?

“Uh,” Arizona looked away. “Ah kind of cleared this place last time I was here. Forgot to tell anyone…”

Dancer gaped in disbelief as Dasher tried harder to hide his shock.

“Well, you weren’t here long, and they weren’t exactly welcoming…”

“Sorry.” Arizona’s ears fell, and he mentally scrambled for a change of topic.

“Wait, you cleared all this alone? Weren’t you outnumbered?”

“Well, yeah. Got dicey, but ah’m Champ’een for a reason.”

Arizona’s confidence returned as she explained her previous visit, leading up to the strange stone portal.

“Ah reckon that thing opened again and they’re comin’ through. We’ve gotta stop ‘em!”

“Let’s get the others.” Dancer’s eyes darted between the doors. “No need to take chances.”

“But she did it all on her own!” Dasher protested. “With two champions with us, what could go wrong?”

Dancer leaned in to whisper into his ear.

“I’m not risking my life so you can show off to your crush.”

“But the others are tired from training!” He protested in a whisper back. “Besides, they already look at us like the weak links. Let’s handle this now and prove them wrong.”

Dancer groaned in her normal volume.

“Fine. If you two are up for it, we can handle this together.”

“Sounds fun!” Paprika hopped in excitement. “And don’t worry, I don’t let my friends get hurt!”

Her neck turned to Arizona.

“You were here first, so lead the way!”

“Okay, portal’s that way.”

So they followed her single file to get through the door: Arizona in the lead with Dasher behind her. Paprika opted to watch their backs as the last in line.

“This place gives me the creeps.” Dancer’s nose scrunched up. “And it stinks. Must be near the sewer.”

“What's a sewer?”

Arizona called back, but before Dancer could answer flames sprung up in front of her, cutting her off from her brother as two wolves and a snake emerged from the shadows.

Dasher caught them and Arizona off guard as he rushed in with his horns down launching the middle wolf to the fiery doorframe before spinning to kick him into it for a quick dispersal.

Arizona rammed the other wolf, sending it tumbling into the wall and yelling “Look out!” immediately after.

Jumping back with a gust of wind before his head had turned, he barely avoided a lunging bite.

Arizona recognized the snake dipping its head to spit a mouthfull of poison and threw her lasso out, yanking its head to the side: the spray grazed Dasher, but most of it splattered harmlessly on the wall.

Wincing but powering through it, Dasher circled the last wolf as Arizona pummeled the snake with strikes and stomps.

When Dasher finished it with a dodge into his own combo, he turned to see Arizona turning from a dispersing cloud.

“Are you okay?" Arizona trotted up to him. "That stuff stings.”

Dasher brushed what he could off his floof.

“Great! Always wanted to fight alongside a champion.”

Arizona insisted on checking him as he tried to hold still.

“Well you've got some talent, but that was real dangerous.”

Dancer rushed over to interrupt.

“If you get hurt here I'm going to freeze you in the lodge!”

“Sorry.” Dasher lowered his head. “Thought I should take the opening.”

“Then we can both rush in.” Arizona put a hoof on his shoulder. “Just let me lead next time.”

“Okay.” He nodded, struggling to make eye contact.

“Ooh, how about us next!” Paprika leaned too close to Dancer. “I want to see more skating!”

“This isn't a game.”

“Why not? It's fun!”

Dancer blinked. “Have you even been in a fight like that before?”

“Trust me, she has.” Arizona clacked a hoof for emphasis. “Got me out of a rough patch.”

“Fine, then. That didn't look too hard.” Dancer took a breath and followed Paprika to the front.

“Yippee!”

Paprika lept into a cartwheel before the fire could form behind them: a cougar only had time to look up and flinch before she came down in a body slam, grappling it on the floor.

Taking her lead, Dancer skated towards the remaining predators, a wolf and another cat, but surprised them by forming a ramp: curling into a ball to avoid their swipes before throwing her skate blades off again.

Both predators yelped as the ice shattered on them: Paprika popped out of a tumble to throw her cat into the other before it could recover, dispersing both of them.

The remaining wolf glanced between them before growing and pouncing at Dancer, but it didn’t go far before being slammed out of Foenum by pivoting double kick from Paprika.

Dancer caught her breath as she accepted a hoof bump from Paprika.

“You’re pretty fast on your feet.”

“Aw, thanks!” Paprika pulled Dancer into an unexpected hug.

“Some are tougher than others.” Arizona entered behind Dasher. “There was a big nasty one at the portal last time: but no door blocks that I remember.”

“Good to know in advance.” Dancer tried in vain to pull out of Paprika’s grip. “So, we should keep going before there’s any more surprises, right?”

“Right!” Paprika let go and started humming on her way to the door.

“Ah guess me an’ Pap are next? Spread the restin’ around?”

“Sure!”

Arizona wondered how she could be so cheery in such a creepy place, before remembering where she’d met her.

Guess not much gets to her.

They braced themselves for another fight, but the group walked out to see the sewer in front of them without incident.

“Blech!” Dancer waved a hoof. “No wonder they don’t hang out here.”

“What’s that?!” Dasher tensed up as he spotted odd blots of darkness hovering in the air.

“Oh, that’s nothin’.” Arizona walked over to it. “Watch!”

She walked up to one and stomped, and the shadows faded into the air like a cloud while some splashed into nothing on the ground: leaving only a green light that flew into her.

“What was that?” Dasher rushed over. “Are you okay?”

“Never better! Those things heal you.” Arizona pointed. “Y’all should try it!”

Dasher and Dancer shared a glance before walking up to the two remaining ones. Dasher tried to stomp, but the darkness only wavered as Dancer cut it apart with a swipe.

“Guess that works too. Ah can help ya practice stompin’ later, though.”

Dasher’s ears tilted back.

“Thanks, I’d appreciate it.”

He shot Dancer a glare as he heard her chuckle before slicing through it with his horns: letting out a satisfied sigh as the green light flew into him.

“You’re right, that does feel better. How’d you figure that out?”

“Stompin’ just solves everything!”

Dancer stopped her laugh long enough to say, “Well, that’s one way to do research.”

They returned to their formation for the next room and thought it was empty until the shadows appeared late with the whole group there: the wolf and two cougars who appeared were outnumbered and immediately overwhelmed as Dasher and Arizona charged and Paprika cut off the wolf fleeing Dancer.

Arizona and Paprika took the lead again as the next door fired behind them and a cat and two wolves phased into existence.

“Like last time!”

Arizona reared up for a two hoof stomp as Paprika hopped to avoid the shockwave, knocking two of the predators to the ground alongside the deer behind her, inadvertently.

The cat had jumped away to avoid it, but as it pounced it was caught by an apple Paprika flung and fell sprawling next to them.

As the wolves scrambled up Arizona lassoed one in, letting go as it stumbled into Paprika’s and vanished in a hug.

The other charged Paprika in a late attempt to cover them: she pretended to flee before flattening it with her back with a trust fall and a “Wee hee!”

Meanwhile the cat pounced at Arizona again with a wild growl, but she deflected its paws with a horn: following with a jab and finishing with a kick from her back hoof.

“That was amazing!” Dasher cheered.

“Did you just…take one down with a hug?!” Dancer sounded equal parts impressed and scared.

“Yep! Wanna see it?”

Dancer took three steps back as Paprika turned to her.

“Ah think she'd like to see it, not feel it.”

Arizona stepped between them.

“Oh. Okay! Gentle hugs.”

Paprika walked off to eat the apple she’d thrown as Dancer breathed a sigh of relief.

Arizona tapped a hoof twice to get everyone's attention.

“There's no more fiery doors past this point, unless somethin’ changed, but the next room’s the portal thing. When ah walked up to it about nine predators popped out, includin’ a big, strong, slowish one. This might get dangerous, in case ya wanna turn back.”

“Let's get the others then.” Dancer stared at her brother. “Nine on nine, no shame in that.”

“But we're so close to just finishing this," Dasher protested, "and there may not even be that many! Would you rather go there and ask for help, or tell them about our adventure with the champions?”

“I'd rather fight with them here, as part of a team.”

“We are a team!” Paprika said. “But you can leave this to the champions if you want.”

“Either way, I'm not leavin’ till this is handled, an’ we shouldn't stick around too long.”

“Then I'm in!” Dasher stepped forward.

Dancer groaned and joined him.

“Fine, but only because I can't talk you out of it.”

“It's settled then! Glad to have ya.”

Arizona led them over another bridge, past the sewer and to a balcony overlooking a large open area. The grim, predator-carved statue drew all of their eyes.

“That's where ah fought last time, reckon it's the best place to stand: room to move around and they'll want to come to us. Probably pop up all around when it opens. That door leads down.”

“Why not bottleneck them at the bridge, keep them from surrounding us?”

Dancer tilted her head back in its direction, but Arizona shook her head.

“Someone has to knock, and they might get cut off.”

Dasher stepped up in front of them.

“I'm fast, let me do it.”

“Not riskin’ it.” Arizona pushed him back. “Let's just stick together and - huh?!”

An ominous sound jerked their attention to the statue as it opened.

“I knocked!” Paprika somehow appeared behind them.

“Back to the bridge!” Dancer turned, but stepped back as two wolves appeared behind them.

Paprika did not hesitate, rolling into one with her hooves striking it before it could react and knocking the other down with a hip bump.

As she finished the wolf in front of her with a hug, a lasso flung the one behind her through the air with a yelp: it barely missed the sewer as it vanished on impact.

With the wolves gone they turned to see a pack of predators pursuing them with a bear trailing the pack, towering over it.

“Cover me!” Dancer took a deep breath, bent down, and breathed a white mist onto the bridge.

Ice covered it as the predators charged, slowed by Dasher summoning wind against them.

“Done!” Dasher and Dancer jumped back behind the champions, horns dimming with their magic spent, as two cats lead the charge: catching themselves as they slid out of control.

“Jump!” Arizona reared up.

The stomp sent the sliding cats flying through the air: one was intercepted by another apple from Paprika, changing its trajectory to fall flailing to the sewer below.

The other sailed clean over the ungulates and crashed: Dasher and Dancer stomped it out without magic before it could recover.

The pack skidded to a halt and braced themselves as Arizona stomped again with Dasher hopping by her side: they stayed grounded, but a wolf yelped as a potato thrown from Paprika smacked its muzzle.

Dancer formed a ball of ice and tossed it to her.

“Try this next!”

The predators started to retreat under the sudden hail of projectiles, but a snake countered with artillery of its own.

“Watch out!”

Dasher tried to deflect the poison too late with his wind, and watched as Dancer and Paprika jumped away from their loading position as a glob of it splashed on the floor.

When he looked back he saw the bear throwing the last cougar, flying over the ice straight towards his sister.

Summoning all the magic he had left, he dashed in front of her before anyone else could react.

He meant to knock the cougar out of the way, but instead they went tumbling, barely missing Dancer as he the cougar slashed and he did his best to keep its teeth at bay.

“Dash!”

Dancer turned her back on the pack and ran to him, but Paprika was faster: already pulling the cougar away.

Its hooked claws refused to let go until it recoiled from a slash from Dancer’s skates, vanishing in Paprika’s squeeze.

Dancer knelt by her brother, panicking at his groan as he forced himself up.

“Focus on them, I’m - OW - I’m fine!”

With the others out of position, Arizona was alone in holding the bridge.

The last wolf had crept up when she’d turned to look at the cougar, and it took the opportunity to pounce.

Arizona answered with a straight-on headbuck, sending it tumbling, but saw an incoming shockwave too late: the bear had chosen to attack her through its own ally.

The force of it finished the wolf off and knocked her off her feet as the bear charged in behind it: scooping her into a crushing grab.

Arizona struggled to escape, but the grip loosened on its own as icicles slammed into the bear's head and shoulder: the second narrowly missing Arizona.

“Put zhat down!”

“Velvet?!”

Arizona pushed against the hold as it started to tighten again, but a headbuck from Paprika to the chin forced the bear to drop her.

The snake lunged for Paprika, but its head was knocked to the floor by a speedball of ice as another icicles drove the bear back.

Seizing the opening, Arizona dug her hooves into the brick and rocketed herself at the bear.

“Y’all in for a Tramplin’!”

Her horn slammed into its chest as she swiped, sending it flying over her head towards the others.

It would have landed on Velvet, but she dodged with a graceful backflip followed by an enormous shard of ice slamming it to the ground.

“Spike!”

Dancer’s horns glowed as ice crept over the bear’s paws, trying to freeze it to the ground.

“Zhat’s cute, let me show you how it’s done!”

Velvet hopped towards the bear and froze it in place with a fan of icicles embedding into the ground and expanding around it, before the ice rose to a solid block as her horns shone.

She smiled at her work before flinching as it shattered from a wind backed buck from Dasher, with the bear nowhere to be seen.

“Sorry, that was personal.”

“Fair enough, I suppose.”

On the bridge the snake had started to flee as soon as it saw the bear get flung through the air: but it didn’t get far before Paprika grabbed its tail and spun it around in a blur.

“Ari, catch!”

It flew head first with a panicked hiss, and disappeared as Arizona met its head with her own.

Shaking the impact off, she spun around looking for more enemies before turning to Velvet, speaking through heavy breathing.

“Thanks for the help, but we had that under control.”

“Clearly.” Velvet rolled her eyes. “You’re lucky I only took one wrong turn.”

Arizona dropped her response as an “Ouch!” caught her attention.

“Dash! Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.” He walked with a slight limp. “Just need to get back to the sprites. But we should handle that first.”

He pointed to the statue.

Arizona frowned and lead them to it.

“Ah tried stompin’ it, but it seems hard to destroy. How d’ya reckon we stop it?”

“I don’t know, but we can at least slow it.” Velvet looked to Dancer. “What do you say we freeze it shut?”

“Worth a shot.” Dancer nodded.

The two deer knelt by the statue as a ice encompassed it, leaving Paprika to frantically bandage Dasher.

“You need rest and ointment, now! I’ll take you back.”

He flailed in her grip as she picked him up.

“I’m fine! Put me down!”

Paprika didn’t let go until they’d made it outside and Dancer caught up to touch a hoof to her shoulder.

“I’ll take it from here. We’re twins, we look out for each other.”

Her eyes widened as Paprika pulled her into the hug as well.

“Aw, that’s so sweet! Just promise you’ll get well soon!”

“Promise.” They both answered with a look to each other.

“Y’all did good out there! Proud to fight by your side.”

“Thanks! I mean, um…..”

“Well, see you tomorrow!” Dancer waved. “Can’t promise I’ll be in the tournament after all that, though.”

“Awww!” Paprika frowned.

“Okay, maybe. See you later!”

Dancer pulled her dazed brother away, letting him lean on her as they walked off to their headquarters.

“Tell Vixen she smells for me!” Velvet waved them goodbye before turning to the others. “I see you’ve made new friends.”

“Why are ya here, anyway? Comin’ to show off?”

“Saving ze day vas a nice bonus, but I came to apologize.”

“Wha?”

“I mean to say I’m sorry.”

Arizona blinked as Velvet tensed up.

“I vas out of line insulting you and your father like zhat. I…I’m just sorry. Can you forgive me?”

Arizona stared back, but her face softened at Velvet’s regret.

“Sure. No point holdin’ onto a grudge. But what was that about?”

Velvet took a moment to gather her thoughts.

“Before you came, I was clearly ze best fighter in Reine: and I trained to keep it zat way. I thought I vas invincible, but then you showed up and I lost to a kid who didn't even have magic!”

She paused to catch herself.

“No offense.”

“None taken. Ah’m Champ’een of the Prairie for a reason though.”

“Yes. I underestimated you - which won't happen again - and I suppose my ego got bruised.”

“That's not all that got bruised.”

Velvet caught herself from retorting as she spotted a smile and heard Paprika snicker.

“Hmph! Fair enough.”

“You battled a pack of predators from a dark shrine below Reine, and did not send for me?!”

“Ah knew I could handle it alone, and ah didn’t want to risk any of ‘em gettin’ out.”

“Yes, but I could have -” Stronghoof cut himself off with a cough. “I mean, mighty as you are, it was an unnecessary risk. But please, tell me more about this large scraggly predator!”

He insisted on hearing every detail of their battle, clearly wishing he could have been there.

“You have done Reine a great service! Do not worry about this gate opening again: I will post guards until we find a way to shut it down for good.”

“Zhere may only be one vay to do zhat. Any update on ze translation?”

“No, but I have asked them to investigate this dark shrine. It seems to act as a portal of sorts to the Hold: perhaps it will have some answers? Regardless, any information on it would be welcome. It is disturbing to find such a thing under our city.”

“Ah saw one like it in the big Highlands Temple, things give me the creeps. Who'd have built that anyway, predators?”

Paprika swallowed another mouthful and spoke up.

“That’s silly! The temple talks about the Prophet and all that stuff, so there wouldn't be predators.”

“So…ungulates built ‘em?” Arizona briefly looked her age as a scared calf.

“Somehow zhat is more disturbing.”

“Indeed,” Stronghoof nodded, “but it might mean that there's a trace in the historical record. For now though we should celebrate your victory, and look forward to the tournament ahead!”

“Thanks again for takin’ us in, really appreciate it.”

“And thanks for the food!” Arizona and Paprika spoke in turn, getting a smile from Stronghoof.

“The pleasure is mine, and you have already repaid us handsomely.”

“It wasn't all us, Dasher and Dancer helped!” Paprika added.

“Ze did well for fawns.”

“Well for anyone, ah’d say.”

“I will ensure that they receive credit, they've done the Elite 7 proud.”

Arizona grabbed another bite of sprouts before swallowing and asking.

“What's with the Elite 7 anyway? If it's deer with a lot of magic, shouldn't you be on it?”

“You'd zhink.”

Velvet scowled, but before Arizona could think of something else to say Paprika spoke.

“But they need you for the biggest job, right? You're the champion!”

“Very true.” Stronghoof looked to his daughter. “I was also needed for other tasks.”

“I've heard zhis all before, but zhank you.”

She got up from the table after a last bite.

“Now if you'll excuse me, I must make some last preparations for tomorrow.”

Arizona waited until she'd closed the door to ask her father.

“Sensitive topic?”

“You could say that. No one really knows why the sprites choose anyone, but there's a prestige to it.”

“Their headquarters looks cool!” Paprika stretched her neck up to his eye level. “I wish I could be in a club like that!”

“Yer in a champion club with me, at least.”

“And Velvet!” Paprika smiled. “She seems nice when you get past the froofiness.”

“Fair point.” Stronghoof chuckled. “I admit she can be difficult at times. It's good you see you getting along.”

“If she's ready to let bygones be bygones, ah’m fine with that. Not gonna let her show me up if she's goin’ around callin’ me a rival, though.”

“I would expect nothing less!”

Author's Note

Hope you enjoyed the chapter!

I plan on pivoting to cover other characters elsewhere in the world before returning to Reine, but this story will recieve more chapters so long as their adventure stays in Reine.

The plan is still to weave everything together in a single continuity for my take on the story.

These links show how the Elite 7 look: the second is just fanart, but it's how I envision Blitzen.

Elite 7 Wiki

Elite 7 Art

Onto justifying my decisons within the Canon and quasi-canon.

Velvet and Vixen are heavily implied to be in a secret relationship where they pretend to hate each other by Cashmere Shop and Story dialogue.

Velvet's quasi-canon Book of Lore entry and other Cashmere Shop dialogue implies that Blitzen is in love with Velvet, but not the other way around.

Cashmere is Velvet's cousin.

Dasher and Dancer's age is not stated in the story, but we do get a clue on when they were picked from the Elite 7 fan.

"A big surprise! For the first time since ever, TWO Reindeer were picked for the Elite at the same time.
But of course they were, because they were twins. DASHER and his sister DANCER. They were SO young when they were picked, you wouldn't believe how young they were.
Very young."

There is also an odd line from a Reindeer near the Elite 7 HQ in the story implying that they confused Dasher and Dancer, despite them seeming to look quite different.

"I think I just saw Dancer on the second floor window! …or was it Dasher?"

Perhaps they could be mistaken because they are smaller than the others?

Regardless, I have headcanoned that Dasher and Dancer are the youngest of the Elite 7 by a good margin, and were chosen by the Winter Sprites when they were about 6 years old in human years. In the time of this story, they are 13 and some change in human years.

If you assume one and a half real years passed between them being picked and the events of the story, they would be about 13.5 in human years.

They were the next to last deer picked: Vixen is the latest.

The fan's dialogue implies that a new deer has been picked every year, possibly in less than a year.

"OH AND! It's also been a WHOLE year and change since VIXEN was picked, so everybody is expecting someone else will be picked soon."

So where you put Dasher and Dancer's age at depends on how old you think they were in human years and how much time passed since then.

Mane 6 choosing to use realistic animal lifespans makes some things complicated.

For reference, in Anakun's Discord comments Velvet is implied to be a young adult, and Arizona is about 12 in human years.

The depiction of Arizona reading, leaving out the 'o' in 'Shop', was done to reflect the odd rules of the Foenum writing system: she read the sign correctly.

Foenum has two rune systems for writing, one seen from ungulates and another from Winter Sprites.

The ungulate runes are 18 consonants, with C, K, and Q sharing a rune.

Words starting with a vowel are written with an apostrophe ('PPL for Apple).

When a vowel sound is surrounded by the same consonant sound, it's written as a colon (P:RK for Paprika).

Same rule applies if the same consonant sound is doubled (GRL:D for Grilled).

Instead of making secondary characters just fight like a weaker version of their closest character, I try to envision different kits for them.

Velvet and Stronghoof are the greatest fighters in Reine, but the Elite 7 are skilled and have unusually strong Winter Magic.

Vixen fights most similarly to Velvet, but she eschews Velvet's large ice attacks for wind to dodge around and redirect smaller icy projectiles.

Blitzen rushes opponents down with ice extending his already impressive antler and hoof strikes, with a good combination of speed and strength.

Dancer is a talented ice skater, and she specializes in creating ice for skating on demand: slashing with her ice skate blades and throwing them as needed.

Dasher specializes in the wind side of Winter Magic, and he is the fastest Reindeer when using magic. He relies on quick movement and momentum in fights.

I used EpicGamer10075's names for the sprites, with his permission, from his story Cloaked in Comfort: though I envision the Elite 7 differently.

ECloaked in Comfort

After sealing the Hold, Oleander moves away from the Order to live in Reine, finding a peace there she never thought she could have before.

Other

EpicGamer10075 · 20k words · 28 1 · 473 views

Meetings and Matches

Arizona closed her eyes and felt something fuzzy cover her ears with a strap on her muzzle.

“Ta-da!” Paprika held a mirror in her mouth as Arizona’s eyes opened. She was wearing Paprika-yellow earmuffs.

“I dunno, Pap.” She blushed. “Aren’t they a little… cutesy?”

“But you are cute!” Paprika only made the blush worse as Velvet peeked in and immediately snorted with her hoof holding back a laugh.

“She’s right, zey are rather girly for you.” She forced herself to keep a straight face as she turned to Paprika. “Can you make them for boys, also?”

Arizona stared daggers at Velvet, who couldn’t help but snicker at the contrast.

Paprika joined her laughter, innocently oblivious. “But she’s a girl, silly!”

“Ah.” Velvet smirked. “I almost forgot.”

Arizona put on a fake smile. “Ah am really lookin’ forward to meetin’ ya in the tournament.”

“Likewise.” Velvet mirrored the expression as they both leaned in. “Well, I’ll leave you to it! Stay warm until I cool you down.”

“Stay cool until I— Ah, whatever.” Arizona sighed and tempered her voice as Velvet left the room.

“At least they’re practical.” She grumbled. “Thanks, Pap. I love them.”

“Anything for my friend!”

Arizona resigned herself to wearing it for Paprika. And it was cold outside.

“So, ready to start trainin’?”

“I want to check on our friends first.”

“Oh, right!” Arizona felt a pang of guilt as she remembered the basement and followed Paprika. “Hope they're able to compete.”

“Get up, stupid!”

Dancer shook her brother until his eyes opened.

“Let me sleep in more, the sprites said— Ow!”

Dancer interrupted him with a poke to the neck floof.

“Sounds healed enough to me, and you have some training to do.”

Dasher yawned and got up.

“Okay, okay! Another hour wouldn't have hurt.”

“What was that about impressing the others yesterday?”

“Fine.” He grumbled as she opened the door with a smirk. “You win this one.”

Most of the Elite 7 had left to train, but their tallest member was still there to greet Dasher at the table.

“Good morning!” Donner smiled. “Do you feel fit to fight?”

Dasher felt his floof. “Ready to go.”

“Not until you've had these.” Donner tapped the table and a sprite entered, leaving a bowl of golden oatmeal with berries. “And not until you've trained. I would be happy to help, if you'd like.”

Dancer tapped the table and called for milk before turning to her brother.

“I just finished a round of drills with him, if you want a turn.”

Dasher swallowed, and his dull horns began to glow teal to match her purple and Donner’s blue.

“I'd appreciate it. Thanks for looking out for us.”

“Always happy to help! Have to make sure the Elite 7 put on a good show, after all.”

“We'll do our best,” Dasher said before taking another bite.

“I'm sure you will.”

The conversation had turned to their exploits in the undercity when a sprite knocked.

“An ‘Arizona’ and ‘Paprika’ would like to see you. Should we send them away?”

The other deer chuckled as Dasher stood up a little too quickly.

“No, tell them I'll be right there!” He turned to Donner. “Um, I might have a new training partner. You can go on without me.”

Dancer got up to follow him.

“I should say hi, but I’d like to run more drills if you’re up to help.”

“Anytime.” Donner nodded and turned to Dasher. “And good luck! It’s not every day you get to train with a champion.”

In a tavern on the fringes of Reine, a small goat stirred, stretching as she got up.

Di beds an food are good enough, but dem prices are di real robbery. Specially when dem so mean with di drinks!

She looked over the salt she'd kept from her last steal with a scowl.

At dis rate, mi haffi pull off a heist in di city to keep tailin’ dat lazy champion. How she think she's a go find de key without leavin’ town?

After tying her bandana, Shanty made her way downstairs to get whatever they were having for breakfast: some kind of oatmeal, it looked like.

Dat looks tasty, neva seen oats like dat before.

But to her dismay, the innkeeper passed her a plate of bread, figs, and cheese instead.

“What gives?” Shanty stood on her back legs to be eye level. “Why dem get di oatmeal?”

“That's good gjetost.” The innkeeper grumbled. “But the golden oats are for reindeer only.”

“What yuh mean?” Shanty's eyes narrowed. “Goats not good enough fi yuh?”

The innkeeper looked like he was biting his tongue as he explained. “Golden oats are special, and we don't have enough to just give them to everyone.”

“So yuh got magical special oats and yuh not sharin’?”

“I didn't say ‘magical’.” The innkeeper’s eyes narrowed. “But yes. I prefer the gjetost anyway—they're not that special.”

To-do list: steal golden oats, follow deer, get di key.

“Whatever den, keep yuh oats.”

Shanty bit down on the toast and cheese and smiled.

“Oo, dis good!”

“Glad you like it.” The innkeeper deadpanned as he moved to other things.

As she ate, Shanty overheard the word ‘champion’ from one of the tables. She balanced her plate on her head and moved to a chair with her back facing them.

“They say they found predators in the sewers, right under our noses!”

“Makes me glad to have three champions in Reine, for sure. Glad Stronghoof gave them a place to stay; he still makes some good calls.”

There’s no goat champion, but he nuh need to know that. I could spy on dem in plain sight!

“Can't wait for the tournament. Ten thousand salt for the winner! Almost makes me want to join.”

“If you want to be target practice for Velvet, be my guest.”

Ten thousand salt?!

Shanty choked on her breakfast, briefly interrupting their conversation before they continued.

An all I haffi do is fight? Dis too easy!

Shanty was about to make her way to Stronghoof's lodge, but paused as she spotted an unfinished bowl of golden oatmeal.

After a glance to see the coast was clear, she gobbled up what was left and had it back in a second.

Yeah, just oats. I don't get it.

“I'm so glad you're okay!”

Paprika started things with her inevitable hug, somehow grabbing both twins at once.

Dancer's voice was muffled by the tight grip. “Good to see you too, Paprika.”

They both took a moment to breathe when she finally let go, but Dasher’s whole body tensed as Arizona gave him a hug.

“Uh, sorry.” She looked away. “Guess Pap is rubbin’ off on me. Good to see you up.”

“It's, uh, gre - no problem! I'm—”

Dancer stepped in front of her stuttering brother.

“He's just excited to train, if you're still up for it. But we get it if you want to focus on your own training for the tournament.”

“Sure, I'd be happy to train ya!” Arizona looked from him to Dancer. “Are you comin’ too?”

“I have my own things to practice.” Dancer raised a hoof. “I'll see you at the tournament!”

“See ya there, then.” Arizona accepted a hug from Dancer. “And good luck!”

“You too,” she called back as she skated away. “Have fun!”

Arizona waved her goodbye before turning to Dasher.

“Ah think we should practice outside the walls, where no one will fuss if we break some ground. Sound good?”

“Uh, sure! That's perfect!”

He followed her in a daze as Paprika trailed behind, until he worked up his courage to catch up beside her.

“I like your earmuffs, they're cute.” He hastily corrected herself as she looked away. “I-I mean cool! They're cool.”

“Thank ya, but they are a bit cutesy for me.”

Well, I like them.

Stronghoof sat behind a desk with Vetr, going over some last arrangements for the tournament when he heard a set of rapid knocks on the door.

“Come in.” He looked up.

“Dem told me fi go here fi di tourney.”

Shanty stood as tall as she could on four legs with Stronghoof towering over her.

“I'm Shanty, di Champion a di Isles, and I'm here for dat prize!”

“You'll have to win the tournament first.” He chuckled, but stopped and glanced to the side as Vetr spoke.

“The Goatani haven't chosen a champion, and I saw that goat robbing the fortress.”

“I know,” Stronghoof replied in the sprite language.

“What dem say?” Shanty pointed at Vetr.

“He wishes you luck in our tournament. We are truly blessed to have four champions to witness! Listen for the bell an hour before meetup at one, and the tourney will begin at three. You're all signed up.”

“I won't disappoint!” Shanty left with a smug grin, but as soon as she was out of earshot, Vetr spoke up.

“She's a criminal, why not arrest her? Deer and Sprites are still talking about you pardoning your wife.”

“I'm very aware.” He frowned. “But that thief struck at the same time as Bravura; I'll bet they're connected, and she might lead us to her. Besides, we know where she'll be. Just tell the sprites to keep a discreet eye on her; outsiders always seem to ignore them.”

“Clever.” Vetr stroked his chin. “Consider it done.”

“Besides”—Stronghoof smiled—“it will be amusing. Let's see this ‘Champion of the Isles’ test herself against the best of Reine.”

As Dasher, Arizona, and Paprika approached the gates, they heard the guards arguing.

“Like I told you yesterday, there has never been an Alpake ambassador! Begone!”

“Alpake?” Paprika’s neck stretched up, and she disappeared without her companions noticing.

“Oh, these guys.” Arizona groaned.

“Did they give you trouble?” Dashed walked next to her.

“Told me ta ‘take my lyin’ backside back to the frozen wastes’ when ah told them ah was champeen. But ah showed them!”

“That's awful!” Dasher scowled. “I had no idea they were so rude to travelers!”

“Also made me promise not to eat anyone, like they've never seen a cow before.” Arizona stared up at them. “Ironic since they drink milk.”

“You should tell Stronghoof, or I will.” Dasher shared her anger. “Some folks have no manners, but he's a better judge of character.”

With that he walked ahead and yelled up at the guards.

“By order of the Elite 7, open the gate!”

The guards flinched and spun around.

“But, Dasher! This outsider may be dangerous.”

They both winced as they saw Arizona staring back at them as Dasher answered.

“Then I'll be the judge of that!”

The other guard swallowed and answered. “Of course, young sir. Open the gaaA—”

Both of them stumbled back as they heard a gasp from Paprika: somehow perched on the edge of the wall behind them.

“Sofrito!”

“Paprika?!”

Before he could process it, the young grey Alpaca was trapped in a tight hug, nearly losing his sun-patterned back blanket as it slipped from under his saddlebags.

“Ohmygosh you've grown so much! What are you doing here? Are you warm enough? I can make a sweater to match your hat!”

“One question at a time.” He took a breath as the suffocating grip loosened, but didn't release. “I'm here to meet with the Jarl… and I could use a sweater. But why are you here?”

“Ooo, so much has happened!”

Dasher and Arizona were baffled to see them as they walked through the gate, and Arizona’s eyes bulged as Paprika suddenly let go of Sofrito to grab her.

“This is Arizona, she's my friend, and the ‘Champeen’ of the Prairie! Ari, this is Sofrito, he's Adobo’s son!”

“Pleasure to meet ya.”

Their hoofshake was interrupted by Paprika pulling them both into a hug.

“I met her by the temple, then we fought some baddies and found a clue together, then Adobo let me back in the tribe! Oo, and I'm Champion of the High Plains now! It's so exciting!”

“Great to have you back.” Sofrito resigned himself to the hug. “But why are you in Reine?”

The awkwardness of the situation showed more from Arizona, but she tried to answer normally. “Pap copied down some of tha scribbles in that temple, and we need ‘em translated. They say it's gonna be awhile.”

“But why are you here?” Paprika asked. “I wasn't sure where you were, but I didn't think you'd leave the High Plains!”

Sofrito tried and failed to pull out of the grip before explaining. “Because I think we all need to leave the High Plains.”

Paprika gasped. “Why leave? We've been there for, like, ever!”

“Seems kinda dreary to me.” Arizona commented before Sofrito cleared his throat.

“More importantly, it's getting dangerous. The clouds are usually thick enough for predators to roam in the daytime, and there are caves for them everywhere. We should shelter elsewhere until the danger has passed.”

Paprika finally let them go to scratch her head. “I bet Adobo didn't like that. He's always talking about ‘tradition’ this, ‘ancestors’ that.”

“He didn't.” Sofrito shook his head. “I chose to be a scout for the tribe while you were away, but he refused to hear my suggestions of places to leave to.”

“So why come here?” Arizona asked.

“I'm looking for safer places where we'd be allowed to live, so I have something to pitch to the tribe.”

“I never thought I'd see you disagree like that!” Paprika said. “You're both always so serious, like you're all grown up already.”

“You make up for that.”

“Oh, you just need to loosen up.” Paprika blew a raspberry. “But you look tired! You should rest first.”

“I have had a long journey.” Adobo yawned. “And I would like to sleep in the city.”

“Oh my gosh, I forgot, predators!” Paprika exclaimed. “It's not safe for you to be out!”

“I'm fine.” He stepped away. “I'm a scout; I'm good at avoiding them. And I've defended myself against a few.”

“Are you hurt?!” Paprika started searching him for injuries, to his annoyance.

“I said I'm fine.” Sofrito waited for her to finish.

Once she was satisfied, he turned to walk to the gate and saw Dasher standing, awkwardly.

“Who are you?”

“Oh!” Paprika grabbed the deer before he could flinch. “This is Dasher! He's also my friend, and he's in the Elite 7! They're super cool deer with awesome wintery magic!”

“Welcome to Reine!” He smiled before whispering. “Is she always like this?”

Paprika giggled as Sofrito gave a solemn nod.

Arizona raised a hoof to speak.

“We're actually stayin’ at the Jarl’s lodge, he wanted to help us as champions. We could ask him for a meetin’ if you'd like.”

Sofrito had opened his mouth to thank her when Paprika gasped again. “Oo, better idea! You can fight in the tournament!”

“What tournament?” Sofrito looked up at her. “And why would I want to fight?”

“They're doing a huge tournament today, and Stronghoof is a huge fan of fighting! If you show that you're brave enough to sign up, it'll get you on his good side for ambassador talk!”

“‘Brave enough’?” Sofrito’s eyes widened.

“Well, we'll be in it,” Arizona said. “And the best fighters here. But he did promise a meal with all the contestants, so maybe you could talk there.”

“He does respect fighters.” Dasher cut in. “Just showing up could help, especially with a champion vouching for you. Don't know what he'd say, though.”

“Hmm…” Sofrito looked down in thought. “Your plan makes some sense, for once. If it helps my tribe, then I will fight.”

“Then I need to train you.” Paprika put a hoof on his shoulder.

“You? Train?” He looked more worried about that than the tournament.

“I'm a champion, remember? I’ve fought plenty of predators! And you need to know how if you’re going out on your own.”

“...Very well.”

“But first, let’s get you something to eat!” Paprika led him to the gate. “We’ve got our own training to do, see you at the tournament!”

“See ya!” Arizona waved as they left.

“So… I guess it’s just us.” Dasher scratched behind his neck. “Could you show me how to lasso?”

He stumbled forward as her rope snagged his hoof.

“Sure thing! But ah think we should start with the basics: pushin’, buckin’, stompin’, and kickin’!”

Time passed quickly until the bell rang and the fighters gathered.

Dancer broke off from the Elite 7 when her brother entered.

“So how was your training?”

“She pushed me around like a snowplow.” His ears lowered as she giggled. “I picked up a few things, but so much for impressing her.”

Dancer patted his back with a smirk.

“She likes you, she just doesn’t realize it yet.”

Dancer stopped immediately as she saw the others watching and approaching.

“So, a cow?” A red-antlered doe with brown floof and a tan coat leaned in. “Hoping for some fresh milk?”

Dasher lowered his head in embarrassment as a blue-horned buck with reddish-brown fur and a dark stripe on his forehead shoved her.

“That’s too far, Comet!” Prancer scolded.

Dancer stepped in front of her brother and squinted up at her.

“Weren’t you dating a moose once?”

“I was just teasing, sorry!” Comet held up a hoof. “I think it’s cute.”

Her smile dropped as Blitzen approached her, and Dasher and Dancer tensed up.

“Then tone it down.” Blitzen leaned in. “I’ve talked to you about this before.”

Comet took a step back before trying to hold her ground. “You’re not my boss.”

“But on zis, ve agree.” Vixen exchanged a glance with Blitzen. “And if ve’re all equals, then ve do not need ze hazing.”

“Sorry, Dash.” Comet’s ears fell. “I didn’t mean to embarrass you like that.”

“Just… tone it down.” He made himself meet her gaze, but felt encouraged by his other teammates looking back at him.

An awkward silence reigned until Donner changed the subject.

“Now, with that behind us, we’re facing some stiff competition! I hope everyone practiced.”

Murmurs of affirmation went around as he looked to Dasher and Dancer specifically.

“You both made us proud yesterday, and I’m looking forward to seeing how much you’ve grown! Anything you can tell us about the champions?”

“Don’t get grabbed by Paprika.” Dancer shuddered. “She doesn’t look like it, but she’s strong and fast when she wants to be.”

“And tricky.” Blitzen frowned, side-eyeing a snort from Vixen.

“Yes, zhey told me.”

“Arizona is strong,” Dasher added. “Like, really strong.”

“Indeed.” Blitzen puffed himself up. “But I’ve defeated her once, and I can do it again.”

Vixen rolled her eyes. “It sounds like you got lucky with the lake.”

Blitzen stared at her smirking back as Prancer weighed in.

“I’m more worried about the Hoofstrongs. Velvet’s been practicing hard, and Stronghoof’s as powerful as ever.”

“She has, and he is.” Vixen nodded. “But ve at least know vat they are capable of.

“Where is Velvet, anyway?” Prancer turned to Vixen.

“How should I know?” She shrugged as his eyes narrowed. “Vell, she might be in front of a mirror fussing over her looks. But who knows?”

Elsewhere in the room, with the earmuffs and sweater finally off to fight, Arizona and Paprika approached Shanty.

“Howdy!” Arizona offered a hoof. “Heard ya were the Champeen of the Isles; figured we should stop by.”

“So yuh di cow everyone was talkin’ about.” Shanty smirked. “Thought you’d be bigger.”

“Hey, I’m bigger than you!”

“Size ain’t everything.” Shanty stood on her hind legs to stretch and make herself taller.

“Oo, I love your bandana!” Paprika stretched her neck too close.

“What she say?” Shanty looked to Arizona.

“She likes your bandana.”

“Ah! Smart gal, den.” Shanty grinned.

“So are ya also here waitin’ on them to translate the clue?” Arizona asked, and Shanty’s eyes flashed and narrowed.

“Aye, an fi get that tourney salt while I’m here. Hope yuh ready fi mi!”

“I ain’t afraid of goats!” Arizona locked eyes with Shanty.

“Ha! That’ll be your last mistake!”

In a different corner, Sofrito leaned against a wall with his eyes closed as a purplish-grey buck with faded red antlers paced.

“Are you nervous?” The pacing stopped at Sofrito’s words.

“Well, yeah. It’s the Elite 7 and four champions. If you’re competing, how are you not nervous?” Cupid replied.

“Because it wouldn’t help.” Sofrito closed his eyes again. “And I’m tired. Sit with me, breathe slowly, and try to relax.”

Cupid looked down on the young Alpaca before shrugging and laying down.

“...Thank you, this is better.”

“Good. Now rest.”

“Reindeer, Sprites, and all visitors to our fair city, witness the first Reine Tournament of Champions!” Stronghoof wore a dark blue robe for the event, and his booming voice was answered by a louder crowd.

“Fourteen warriors have taken the challenge: four Champions, our beloved Elite 7, two braving the contest without any title to their name, and your Jarl, Stronghoof Hoofstrong!”

He struck a pose as he said his name, getting another round of cheers and an eye roll from his daughter.

“To complete the bracket, two fighters must wait until tomorrow to fight. As our Champion of the Tundra, Velvet Hoofstrong has proven herself in Reine, and Arizona, Champion of the Prairie, bested her in their splendid last match, so they will wait in the wings.”

Arizona and Velvet shared a look of dismay before he continued.

“And to keep things interesting, no champions will fight each other on the first day. Beyond those rules, the bracket has been picked randomly. Now, behold!”

Vetr threw a sheet aside, revealing an ornate bracket board listing the competitors as cheers turned to oohs and murmurs debating its implications.

Dancer
(M1) Vs.
Prancer

Arizona

Comet
(M4) Vs.
Dasher

Velvet

Paprika
(M2) Vs.
Cupid

Sofrito
(M5) Vs.
Blitzen

Donner
(M3) Vs.
Stronghoof

Shanty
(M6) Vs.
Vixen

“So to begin our Contest of Champions, I call Dancer and Prancer of the Elite 7!”

The crowd cheered as Dancer’s breathing quickened.

“Good luck, sis!”

“Ah believe in ya!”

“Just don’t overthink it!”

She smiled a bit at Dasher, Arizona, and Paprika trying to encourage her before heading down the stairs and skating off to the field by Prancer.

Donner walked up between them. “Thanks for cheering her on. I’ll be cheering for Prancer, but it’s good to give her support.”

The rest of the contestants watched from their private booth near the action. Velvet had ordered some kind of drink, apparently.

“So how does he fight?” Arizona asked without looking away as Prancer formed a sword of ice and flourished it, egging on the crowd. “Oh, wow!”

“Ze smart salt is on Prancer.” Velvet took a sip from a mug of ice. “But she has improved. Maybe she has a chance if she can keep her distance.”

“She likes rushing in too much for my taste.” Vixen laid down next to her.

On the field, the contestants were allowed a few words before beginning.

Prancer stabbed his sword into the ground beside him, where it vanished, as Dancer dismissed her skates into mist with a wave of a hoof.

Prancer bowed. “Donner says you’ve improved.”

Dancer bowed. “Just hope it pays off.”

They then turned and took three regimented steps before facing each other as Stronghoof counted down.

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM! Vetr beat a massive drum, and the fight began.

Prancer leapt forward with a swing, but Dancer managed to push away and skate backwards on her hind hooves, nailing him with a pair of thrown ice blades that shattered against him.

He recovered quickly to throw up his guard, but Dancer was already a safe distance away.

“I see you’ve been working on that style.”

Dancer slowly skated around him, watching for sudden movements and maintaining distance as she looked for an opening.

“Needed that for a rink routine. One skill helps the other.”

Seeing a chance, she threw an ice blade with a spinning curve to his feet: but it was cut into mist in a flash.

“It won’t be that easy.” He spun the sword again. “I’ve practiced to ward off Vixen and Velvet.”

In the stands, Arizona muttered, “Sure is a lotta talkin’ for a fight.”

“Zhey are sizing each other up.” Velvet rolled her eyes. “Not everyone just rushes into things.”

Arizona shot her a look, but just as quickly turned back to the match.

In the ring, Dancer narrowed her eyes and accelerated her skating, leaving a ring of ice as she circled around him.

Prancer was light on his hooves turning to face her, but suddenly pointed his sword into the air with a raised hoof. It doubled in size before slamming into the ground. A rumble filled the air as a trail of jagged ice erupted from the impact in a line directly in Dancer’s path.

She gasped as she jumped into a corkscrew, rotating her back to the ground. She barely sailed over the spikes and wobbled as she landed on her skates, but managed to stay upright.

Dancer swerved to the side from Prancer’s charge and spun, stopping his advance with another flying ice blade that he raised his sword to block.

Desperate to keep up the pressure, she pirouetted, flinging a hail of ice from her hooves as she spun.

He was forced to step away. His sword flashed through the air as he devoted his full attention into defense, cutting every blade apart until her horns dimmed.

With her magic briefly exhausted, he charged in. She managed to reform her forehoof ice blades and parry a strike from the heavier sword, but a feinting overhead following it broke through her defenses. Twisting it in the opposite direction, the sword caught her from below, carrying her over him and into a powerful buck that sent her lighter frame flying.

As Dancer hit the ground on her side, she summoned what magic she could manage to freeze it beneath her, and barely slid out of his sword’s reach as it slammed down.

She scrambled to her hooves as he recovered from the momentum of his finisher attack, hurting but still in the fight as her horns regained some color and she reformed her skates.

I can’t take another hit, how am I going to get past his defense?!

“You can do it!” Dasher yelled from the stands.

Prancer kept his eyes locked on her and his sword ready, but he seemed content to fight defensively rather than take a risk to end it.

Dancer forced herself to conserve energy as she maintained distance skating around him.

“Think outside the box!” Paprika called. “Remember the bridge!”

Dancer blinked at her words, and started to form a plan.

She began to speed around Prancer again, flinging an occasional ice blade to occupy him which he easily swatted out of the air.

“Out of ideas?” He pointed his sword at her. “Don’t let this end on time. Attack or admit defeat gracefully.”

He’d intercepted another throw without changing his cadence, and smiled as she made a sharp turn towards him.

“A brave way to go out!” He held his sword in front of him horizontally to counter whatever attack she’d choose, but it never came. Instead, she pushed off his sword with a parry from her front hooves and backwards skating from the others as he took a swing late.

Prancer assumed she’d backed out in fear of his counter, choosing to stick with her failed ranged attacks rather than take the risk, but he failed to notice the large edge between the ice she’d created and the ground.

She made one more rotation around him, corkscrewing over the spikes cleanly on her second attempt and throwing two blades that she knew would not land, before leaping at him for a spinning kick from the opposite side of her previous charge.

“Predictable.” Prancer took a step back and raised his sword for a wide swing to swat her out of the air, but stumbled as his hoof got caught on the ice ridge she’d created.

Her kick landed in the same moment he dropped the sword, turning his stumble into a fall with the side of his head hitting the ground.

Dancer was on top of him before he could recover from the dizziness, freezing him to the ground with her breath as a submission move.

After struggling to break free, he rested his limbs to smile.

“Well fought, I concede!”

Dancer blinked as she processed the words, with her horns dim, limbs aching, and floof ruffled.

“And our first winner is… Dancer!”

A cheering crowd answered Stronghoof’s announcements as a swarm of sprites came to help the contestants off the field, though Dancer’s sprite was too overcome with celebration and worry to be of any help—rambling on as they made their way back to the booth.

“There’ll be time for that later, Sparky.” Dancer winced. “Could you get an extra cushion? I need to lay down.”

After a quick check, both contestants were allowed to lay in the challenger’s booth with the others as the sprites fussed over them.

Prancer let them pile blankets on him as Donner laid beside him.

“Great defense! You almost had that.”

“I let myself get distracted,” Prancer replied. “But she earned it.”

“What an upset!” Comet forced her way to Dancer, getting an unseen glare from Velvet as she nearly stepped on her. “I thought skate-fighting was silly, but you do great things with ice!”

“Thanks.” She rubbed the side of her head as Dasher sat next to her. “You were incredible! Anything I can do to help?”

“Leave that to the sprites.” She laid her head down and closed her eyes. “You’ll look like me soon enough.”

Comet smirked as Dasher’s eyes darted to her.

“Want an apple?” Dancer’s face scrunched as Paprika forced one to her face.

“Where did you—” Dancer started. “...Nevermind, sure.”

With the crowd settled, Stronghoof called again.

“Now for our second match: I call Cupid, Brave Citizen of Reine, and Paprika, Champion of the High Plains!”

“Good luck!” Arizona gave her a hug which she ended quickly for once.

“Thanks, it’ll be fun!”

Murmurs mixed with cheers as they entered.

“Who is he again?”

“Who is she?”

“Brave is right if he’s taking on the Elite.”

Paprika spun her head around as she walked, gleeful at all of the attention and waving to the crowd, while Cupid fought to keep his head from lowering.

Paprika bobbed her head. “Hi, Cupid!”

Cupid bowed. “Uh, hello.”

They took their steps back, listened to the countdown, and the drum boomed. Cupid braced himself for an attack that did not come.

Instead, Paprika stretched her neck and walked up to him.

“Are you okay?”

He jumped back, but she maintained the distance.

“Uh, fine? We're supposed to be fighting now.”

“Oh, right!” Paprika crouched and coiled. “I can talk and fight!”

She sprung towards him with a frontflip, but he surprised her by backflipping away.

“Wow, you’re good at that!”

“Well, I am a performer.” Cupid sent a glowing snowball at her with a tilt of his head, hoping to catch her talking.

Paprika dodged it with her neck, but gasped and ran to the other end of the field.

“That’s a good idea!” She began to rapidly form snowballs of her own, causing him to pause in bewilderment.

“Really? You want to challenge a reindeer to a snowball fight, here?”

“Why not?” Paprika balanced one on her head. “It’ll be fun!”

With that, she chucked it at him as he hopped to the side and returned fire with snow that vanished into a thick white mist on impact, content to use the advantage she’d bizarrely given him.

Velvet was as confused as he was.

“Vat is she doing?!”

“Throw somethin’ harder!” Arizona called out.

Cupid formed his glowing snowballs with magic as he kept distance while Paprika molded them as she tumbled to evade. Both struggled to hit from across the stadium.

Realizing this, Cupid took extra time to line up a shot, flinching as a snowball slammed into his head after launching, but finally landing one on Paprika.

She shook off the snowball immediately, but the cold mist made her teeth chatter.

“Th-that’s a cool t-trick!”

“Sorry if it’s cheating, but we are in a tournament,” he answered as another formed near his horns and flew at her as he closed in for easier shots and she slowed down.

“All’s fair!” She giggled, dodging two more snowballs with a duck and a sidestep to the left only to be hit by a third as she tried to step right.

With that, Cupid charged in with his antlers, but Paprika locked her hooves on them and sent him stumbling back with a shove.

He lowered his head and took two steps forward into his next charge before barely stopping to step out of the way of a slowed body slam as she tried to catch his momentum.

As she scrambled up, he breathed a cone of frost, chilling her more and slowing her to a crawl.

“Ha!” Shanty folded her forelegs over the booth wall. “Some champ!”

Arizona shot Shanty a glare before shouting, “Focus, Pap!”

But before she could react, Cupid pulled her up into a grapple with white mist surrounding them as his horns glowed brighter than before.

“Sorry about this. We can have a snowball fight later.”

Paprika slowed down as ice covered her fur, but she was smiling: leaning in and returning the hug.

"Y-you win! That was fun!"

“And the winner is… Cupid!” Stronghoof announced from above as Paprika walked back alongside Cupid.

Sprites arrived to pull her into the booth on a sled.

"I-I'd love t-to see you perform! C-can we be friends?" Paprika still smiled up at him, to his confusion.

“Sure.” He blushed, volunteering to help pull the sled. Unseen by him, Winter Sprites swarmed around in a discussion in their stands.

Stronghoof was stretching for his match when Vetr tapped him on the antlers and whispered.

His eyes widened, and he cleared his throat to address the crowd.

“Attention! The sprites have asked me to make a special announcement! Cupid, approach!”

Talk in the crowd quieted as Cupid stood straight in shock before slowly approaching, not sure what to expect.

Reindeer gasped as Vetr and Cupid’s sprite flew down with a cape and set it on his shoulders.

“Citizens of Reine, it is my honor to present the newest member of the Elite Eight!”

Cheers erupted as the rest of the Elite ran out to meet him.

“Welcome to ze team!” Vixen was the first to offer a hoofshake.

“You've made quite an impression, besting a champion!” Blitzen went next. “Even I have struggled against her.”

“Lost,” Comet coughed, getting a scowl from Blitzen that was quickly cut off.

“Impressive work using pure chill!” Dancer offered a hoof. “Guess we’re still the youngest of the bunch.”

“Thank you, I- I don’t know what to say!” Cupid’s eyes watered, getting chuckles throughout the group.

“Trust me, we know the feeling.” Prancer walked up alongside Dancer to shake his hoof as he looked between them.

“You were both incredible! I don’t know if I can keep up, but I’ll do my best!”

Donner answered him. “We’ll be there to help you learn. Reine and Fœnum need more warriors like you.”

Dasher shook his hoof last. “Come sit with us. Let’s get to know each other!”

With that, they filed off of the field, with Cupid surrounded by his smiling teammates.

But Vixen broke off from the chatter to lay by Velvet as she noticed her scowl.

“Still not me. I could have done better than zat!” Velvet ranted in a whisper.

“You’re ze greatest fighter in Reine.” Vixen nuzzled her ear. “Everyone knows zat. Zhey need you for something more.”

She tilted her muzzle to Arizona calling for more blankets for Paprika as the sprites started a fire.

“Some day, zhey might be your team.”

Velvet watched them with a scowl before taking a breath and resting her head on Vixen’s shoulders.

“Vell, at least one of zhem has floof.”

“Ha!”

Stronghoof gave the crowd time to gossip and settle down before the next announcement.

“What an eventful tournament! Now it is time for our third match. I call Donner of the Elite Eight to face me, your Jarl, Stronghoof Hoofstrong!”

Donner pulled away to stride into the arena as Stronghoof threw off his cape and jumped down with a heavy landing, with Vetr holding onto an antler.

Donner bowed. “My thanks for hosting this.”

Stronghoof bowed. “Repay me with a worthy battle.”

A replacement announcer took his spot and motioned to three sprites taking Vetr’s place at the drum.

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM

Donner charged the larger deer, antlers pointed directly at him. Stronghoof formed and swung a hammer of ice to stop him, but Donner raised his forehoof, summoning a spiky gauntlet to shatter it.

Before Stronghoof could lower his head to stop the approach, Donner’s antlers were under his floof, pushing him up.

Thick plates of ice armor formed around Donner, enhancing his strength as he threw Stronghoof over his back.

He turned to follow up, but noticed Vetr charging behind him too late. He only had time to brace himself as his horns glowed and a punch cracked his armor.

Donner looked up to see Stronghoof throwing a spear. Without time to dodge, he punched it, shattering the weapon and his gauntlet.

“Excellent! You’ve grown stronger!”

“Never count the Elite Se- Eight out!” Donner locked eyes with him as he reformed his gauntlet and his armor’s cracks faded as he spoke.

“Nor your Jarl!” With that, Stronghoof stepped forward and called a sword to sweep up in an arc, but Donner sidestepped and charged again. This time, Stronghoof anticipated his charge, lowering his head in time to lock antlers as each tried to shove the other back.

At first, Stronghoof’s natural strength prevailed, but as Donner’s horns glowed and his armor strengthened further, the balance shifted in his favor.

But ice extended Stronghoof’s horns forward as a ramp of ice rose and tilted under Donner’s hooves, causing him to lose his balance as Stronghoof flung him through the air.

“Your stance is weak!”

Vetr slammed him back to the ground with a double hammer fist and a battle-cry as his armor cracked.

As Donner tried to stand, Stronghoof had a smaller axe already swinging down on him. Still, Donner managed to reform the gauntlet on his foreleg just in time to shatter the axe before punching Stronghoof in the chin with his bare hoof, comboing with a single blow from his gauntlet, connecting straight into Stronghoof’s muzzle.

Stronghoof stayed on his feet as he skidded back, but quickly charged back in.

Donner began to repair his armor and lowered his horns, but he failed to see a heavy shield sweeping up to catch him before it was too late.
He was sent tumbling back into the wall.

Stronghoof summoned a great axe into the air with a flourish; Donner scrambled up and summoned a second gauntlet to block the incoming smash…

Only for Stronghoof to stop short, embed the axe into the ground before him, and charged in with an ice hoof punch.

Donner stopped it with his own punch as ice shattered between them. “Too easy.”

“Too easy for what?” Stronghoof summoned axes to sweep underneath him, hoping to catch him off-guard.

But Donner was faster with a heavy gauntlet punch, eliciting a grunt of pain from the Jarl. He followed up twice, thrice, before Stronghoof dodged with a step back and the axes reformed and threw him behind the Jarl as Donner’s strike missed, in front of where the great axe was still embedded in the ground, forgotten by Donner.

Donner turned back to Stronghoof, who was clearly winded from the assault.
Donner started repairs on his gauntlets and armor and as he spoke. “Has this battle been a worthy one, Jarl?”

Stronghoof took his hoof from where Donner had struck and smiled. “Never better. Vetr!”

Before Donner could fully notice, the sprite smashed the discarded axe into Donner’s armor, leaving deep cracks within it. Stronghoof followed up with slashes from a sword and an axe, shattering Donner’s armor.

Donner blocked the next strikes with only his gauntlets, shattering the weapons before pushing Stronghoof back with a blocked gauntlet punch as his horns glowed and his armor started to reform.

Stronghoof pushed back with his hooves in response, staggering him as Vetr grabbed his antlers from the back. Donner was forced on his hindlegs and exposed for a crucial moment as the winded warrior shouted one final command.

“Hail! Storm!”

A cross chop from two axes struck Donner’s exposed belly and he slumped to the ground.

He tried to stand, but fell back down to the ground and tapped the ground to signal a forfeit. Stronghoof flourished a spear and stabbed it into the ground to play to the crowd.

“What a tremendous display of power! Such a shame it wasn’t enough.”

Vetr helped Donner to his feet, and Stronghoof offered to let him lean against him on the way back to the stands.

“You fought well! We must train together more often.”

“As soon as the bruises heal.” Donner smiled tiredly and took his place beside Prancer with his sprite looking over him. “Don’t suppose you’ll train to beat Vetr?”

His sprite glanced from Vetr to him like he’d lost his mind, shook his head at the absurdity, and went back to checking his back.

“Vell done.” Velvet waved up to her father. “Hope your floof isn’t too ruffled to do ze announcements.”

He smiled as he glanced back.

“I will remember that in the final match, snoovish.”

The crowd had a brief intermission as Stronghoof made his way back up the stairs.

“Apologies for the wait, but it is time for our fourth match! I call Comet and Dasher of the Elite Eight!”

Dasher took a breath and followed the more composed Comet to the field.

Comet bowed. “Try to impress your girlfriend.”

Dasher flinched mid-bow. “Hey!”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM

Dasher was slow to act as the starting drum sounded, preoccupied by thinking of some retort.

Exactly as Comet had intended.

A blinding veil of snow blew around her, vanishing as quickly as it formed, but Comet was nowhere to be seen.

Panic seized Dasher as he looked for her, and by the time he looked up, Comet was already winding up a kick from her back leg.

His wind magic barely pushed him out of the way in time, but she used her own wind magic for a flying double kick as soon as she landed.

“Agh!”

Dasher brought up his hooves in time to block, but cried out at the force of the impact as he skidded back.

“Keep your head in the game; that was almost too easy.”

Comet’s taunt worked again as he rushed her with wind speeding his charge, and she leapt into the air, lining up an icicle that shattered on his back as his momentum carried him across the stage.

He faceplanted from the impact as Comet slowed her fall and alighted on the other side.

Arizona yelled from the stands. “Take it slower! Don’t let her get in yer head!”

Comet strutted towards him slowly, ready to dodge and counter in an instant. “That’s sweet, she’s cheering for you. Maybe I’ll let you get one hit in to save face.”

But instead of charging, Dasher took a breath and stared her down as they both paced, minding their positioning.

Comet’s smirk narrowed as she dropped the facade.

“Looks like you finally le—”

She cut herself off with another snow blind, hoping to startle Dasher as she flew forward.

But he held his ground and summoned a howling wind against her as his horns glowed.

Comet’s ground level spinning kick barely fell short with it pushing her back, and before she could spin around to recover, Dasher sent her tumbling with a kick to the rear.

“Learned!”

Dasher ran to follow up, but Comet managed to jump into the air before he could close, flying on a cold, howling wind as he stepped back.

“Planned on saving this, but I’ll practice on you!”

She pointed a hoof, and a massive hailstone plummeted to the ground, shattering as Dasher jumped away.

At first, Dasher looked for an opening to jump into the sky as he dodged, but he remembered Arizona’s advice and opted to evade using as little magic as possible.

She might have deeper reserves, but there’s no way she can keep that up forever.

Comet took the opposite approach: throwing more and larger hailstones as she zoomed over her opponent to overwhelm him.

“What, too scared to attack? You can’t run forever!”

After several close calls of ice bursting beside him and one that he had to deflect with his antlers, Dasher noticed her start to slow down.

Comet swooped lower than she had before as her hoof readied another hailstone.

“Dodge this!”

But a powerful downburst pushed her to the ground and threw off her aim as she stabbed her hoof towards him.

Dasher swung his horns wide and high, stretching his neck like Arizona had taught him in training. They caught Comet’s back legs as she tried to fly over and sent her flailing to the ground.

She started to push herself up, but a stomp from both of his hooves knocked the wind out of her chest.

He locked eyes and readied a second stomp.

“I concede. I concede!” she repeated as her breathing normalized.

Dasher stood down and offered a hoof to help her up, which she accepted with a whisper.

“Where did that come from?”

“A cow that heard you talking about her.” He grinned as her jaw dropped.

“And the winner is Dasher!” Stronghoof shouted over them. “But what a display from Comet! I have not seen techniques like that since a Longma graced Reine!”

Arizona was the first to greet Dasher as he returned.

“That headbuck was perfect! Yer stompin’ form could use a little work, but ah’m proud of ye!”

“Couldn’t have done it without you.” Dasher accepted a hoof bump from her before laying down beside his sister.

“Congratulations!” Dancer smirked. “Now you get to fight Velvet.”

Dasher shot a nervous glance at Velvet and shuddered as she winked.

“But really, great patience out there. You were amazing!” Dancer patted him on the back.

“Couldn’t you have led with that?” He grumbled.

“Hey, I’ll have to fight Arizona.”

If Sofrito was nervous, he didn’t show it as he walked out with the larger deer.

Blitzen bowed. “You’ve traveled far for this; I commend your bravery.”

Sofrito bowed. “I travel for something more important.”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM

Blitzen rushed forward as Sofrito stepped back, but before ice could form over Blitzen’s horns, Sofrito grabbed them, flipped up, and vaulted over Blitzen as the confused reindeer raised his neck to shake him off.

A spinning kick struck Blitzen in the face as he turned, but Sofrito’s stance faltered as he lost balance.

By the time Sofrito had regained his footing, Blitzen had already recovered.

“Surprising agility, but I should have expected it from seeing your champion.”

Sofrito stayed quiet as Blitzen rushed in again and spun on a foreleg to kick again, but it was a feint; Blitzen backed off and halted outside its range before rushing in with a gust of wind.

Sofrito slammed into the wall, thrown by Blitzen’s horns. The deer breathed a cone of frost as Sofrito raised a hoof to block, but Blitzen was reduced to an uncontrollable coughing fit as a bag of spices burst open on him, thrown from the other hoof.

Seizing the opening, Sofrito latched onto one of his forelegs, attempting a submission hold, but the chill from the frost slowed him down, and Blitzen shoved him away before he could complete it.

Cornered again, Sofrito tried and failed to dodge an ice-covered punch that struck the side of his face and knocked him flat on the ground.

Blitzen raised a hoof for a follow-up, but stopped as Sofrito held his hooves out.

“I yield. I can see when I am beaten.”

Blitzen offered a hoof to help him up instead, smiling at the crowd’s cheers.

“You are skilled for a beginner. Maybe someday yo— ACHOO!” A sneeze from lingering spices interrupted his words. “What did you put in that, anyway?!”

“Nothing that water won’t rinse out.” Sofrito’s eyes returned to their half-lid state.

“And the winner is Blitzen!” Stronghoof announced. “But that was a fine effort from our visitor! Let’s hear a cheer for them!”

A genuine smile spread over Sofrito’s face as Paprika greeted him.

“See, I told you!”

“And now it is time for the final match of the day! I call Shanty, Champion of the Isles, and Vixen of the Elite Eight!”

In the stands, Velvet got up again to wave Vixen off.

“Try not to slip on your own ice!”

“Just watch and learn.” Vixen glanced back as she walked.

Stronghoof and Vetr both eyed Shanty as she showed off walking on her hindlegs.

“If she is not what she claims to be, she’s in for a rude awakening.” Stronghoof whispered to Vetr.

“We shall see.” Vetr nodded.

Shanty made an exaggerated bow, dropping to all fours. “Di show good so far, but I’m here for di salt!”

Vixen bowed. “The show must go on.”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM

Vixen dashed back and launched a flurry of four spinning snowflakes one after the other.

Shanty surprised her by doing nothing at the drum, but soon after sprung into action, dodging them in something that looked like a dance: stepping to the side on two legs, spinning and crouching low, tumbling back, then jumping to land with a one-foreleg hoofstand.

“Dat magic nah do yuh no good. Yuh deer forget how fi fight proper.”

Stronghoof leaned in as Vixen shrugged, feigning a lack of concern but ready to spring away immediately.

“Fancy moves, but ve shall see.” Vixen’s horns started to glow, unnoticed by her opponent.

Shanty hopped off her hoofstand in a fluid motion, but instead of landing, she swept the ground with a wide kick, plowing up a cloud of snow and dirt at Vixen.

Vixen instinctively jumped back with closed eyes, boosting herself with wind.

Shanty had started to run after her, but saw her jump to the side instead of making more distance and heard a howling wind from behind: Shanty barely tumbled to the side as the “missed” projectiles slammed into the wall.

Clever girl!

By the time Shanty looked up, Vixen was already on the other end of the stadium.

"You're a good dancer!" Vixen called in a raised voice. "Let's see how long zhat holds up."

She sent a flurry of spinning snowflakes spinning towards Shanty, one by one in a dance as the wind picked up.

Uh oh.

Shanty sidestepped the first, but was forced to run away from the others as they turned to chase her.

Vixen threw another to cut her off, but Shanty jumped it to run on the wall, with the projectiles bursting behind her as she finally closed with Vixen: rocketing off the wall into a run.

"Try zis on for size!" Velvet spun and summoned a massive snowflake, wider than she was, and sent spinning towards her.

"Aah!"

Shanty barely slid under it and got an idea, dodging smaller snowflakes that flew unguided as Vixen focused

With a glance back to check its angle, Shanty dashed between the giant snowflake and Vixen and jumped on it, putting her weight into her forehooves to tilt it forward.

Vixen's eyes widened as she launched herself into a headbuck in a blur.

Caught off guard with depleted magic, Vixen had no chance to dodge as the impact sent her tumbline back to the wall.

“Agh!”

When she finally stopped tumbling, she tried to throw two snowflakes from the ground, but Shanty cartwheeled over the first and slid under the second.

In a last effort to escape, Vixen tried to jump back, but Shanty tumbled past her and launched her into the air with a powerful backflip kick.

“Behind ya!”

Before Vixen could start to fall, Shanty jumped to the wall behind her, knocking her higher with a headbuck on the way up.

“Cannon!”

She shoved off the wall to headbuck Vixen into the ground.

“Ball!”

The crowd gasped as Stronghoof called the match, with only Vixen’s back half sticking out of the ground.

“And the winner is Shanty! Truly a mighty champion!”

Quietly to Vetr, he added, “Those techniques… Did she learn them from her?”

“She’s young for a fighter.” Vetr stared down at her. “Does she have a daughter?”

With that, Vetr flew off to help Vixen’s sprite pull her deer out of the ground as Shanty did another flip into a hoofstand for the crowd.

“That’s one more for Shanty!”

Velvet didn’t hide her concern as Vixen stumbled back in.

“Are you okay? If you need somezhing, anything, just ask!”

“A nap.” Vixen lowered herself down. “And more training, apparently.”

Arizona was quick to greet Shanty as she returned.

“That was mighty impressive; got out without a scratch!”

“I learned from di best! Nehva underestimate goats.”

With the brackets done, Stronghoof pushed his speculation aside for the last announcement.

“And with that, today’s matches are complete! I welcome all contestants to meet in my lodge for a celebratory dinner in two hours after you’ve cleaned yourselves up. Listen for the bell a half hour before. You have all made me proud!”

With that, the crowd and contestants began to disperse, though the Elite Eight were swarmed by reindeer hoping to meet their newest member.

The others surrounded Cupid to keep them away, leading him to their HQ.

He let Vixen lean on her as she limped slightly.

“Don’t worry about zhem,” she reassured him. “Zhere vill be better times for autograph signing.”

“So, what happens now?” Cupid glanced around, clearly still overwhelmed.

“Now you have a talk with the sprites about your room.” Blitzen looked behind him from his place by Donner. “And when it’s ready tomorrow, we’ll have a proper celebration.”

“Never thought I’d get to live with all of you.” Cupid spaced out and blinked. “Kind of forgot that was part of it.”

“We’re like a family.” Dasher smiled up at him.

“A big, strange family,” Comet added.

Stronghoof had left for a back room to gather his thoughts, and shortly after, Velvet arrived with Vetr.

“You wanted to see me?”

“Yes, about this ‘Champion of the Isles’. I need you to keep an eye on her.”

“Why?”

“Because she is a pirate. Vetr spotted her in the act.”

“Vat?!”

“And we think she may be working with Bravura, Reine’s most wanted criminal.”

“Couldn't you just…” Velvet raised a hoof. “Arrest her?”

“We haven't had a lead on Bravura for months. She may be able to lead us to her.”

Velvet narrowed her eyes.

“And how do you plan to do that?”

Stronghoof tapped the table, and Vetr set an ornate jade sphere set in gold on it.

“If she steals something valuable enough, she may return with the bounty. We let her escape, but tail her. We have eyes on the islands. And she’s still young, so I would like to give her a chance to reform.”

Velvet looked up from examining the orb to stare at him in disbelief.

“I suppose you've done it before, and I can't complain, but that seems like a long shot. And what is this?”

“A Longma Ball. Legends say that they are important in some ritual. We will announce it at the museum when the time comes. But she might also be after the Key, so she might follow you hoping for some lead on it, though I doubt she'll make a move until she knows she can get it.”

“You are making my job harder.” Velvet rubbed her head. “What about the other champions?”

Stronghoof paused to organize his thoughts.

“Brave and noble as they are, they may not have the… discretion for this.”

“Fair enough.” She sighed.

After a formal invitation to the lodge from Vetr, Arizona, Paprika, and Sofrito led Shanty to it.

Arizona explained everything they knew about the Monolith clue.

“Warms mah heart to see another champeen lookin’ to help, especially after that performance. They say we'll have to fight over who gets tha Key, but we're all on the same side, right?”

Sure we are, Bravura jus haffi get paid for it when I give her di Key.

“Of course!” Shanty answered. “Just haffi find dat key first. Mek sure to tell me if yuh hear anything else.”

“You got it.” Arizona nodded. “No use keepin’ secrets.”

Dis too easy! Why'd dem send a gullible little calf as champion?

“Have you heard any clues on it?” Sofrito stepped up to ask. “I have heard that the goatani are famous for sailing and exploration.”

“Dat we are!” Shanty answered.

Among other things.

“But no word on di key. Rest assured that di best of di best are looking fi it, though.”

The tournament meal was somehow fancier than what Arizona and Paprika had seen before, and everyone was in a good mood as they ate, though Velvet kept a subtle watch on Shanty.

Inviting a pirate into our house? You have some strange ideas, dad.

The goat looked like she was loving the attention as everyone discussed the tournament, and she ate more food than Velvet thought possible with her lean body.

“So tell me”—Stronghoof looked down on Shanty—“how did the goatani select their champion? Doubtlessly from trial by combat, by your technique.”

“Somethin’ like dat.” Shanty swallowed and answered without hesitation. “We’re not that official, but mi dare any goat fi challenge mi!”

“Well, you’ve certainly proved yourself here.” He smiled. “You are welcome to stay as a champion for as long as you require.”

“Tank yuh, but I'll only be here until we get word of di key.” She shot Velvet a glance as they briefly locked eyes. “No sense wasting time.”

“I admire the urgency.” Stronghoof nodded.

As the meal concluded, Sofrito took advantage of a quiet moment to address Stronghoof directly.

“Jarl Hoofstrong, could I discuss something with you privately after the meal?”

Stronghoof raised an eyebrow, noting Paprika’s and Arizona’s poorly hidden interest.

“Certainly. Vetr will show you to my office.”

“So, what did you want to see me about?”

Vetr closed the door behind them as Stronghoof motioned for Sofrito to take a seat on the cushions.

The alpaca did his best to compose himself.

“I came to Reine as an ambassador for my tribe, and perhaps for all Alpake. So I wish to speak with you as Jarl.”

“Go on.” Stronghoof nodded.

“Our ancestral home, the High Plains, has always been unforgiving, but the predators have made it more dangerous than ever. Clouds choke the sky so often that they can move in the day, and there are caves and tunnels everywhere for them to hide. We are hardy, but we are not warriors, and we only want to live in peace.”

He paused for a moment to try to read Stronghoof’s expression, though it only seemed thoughtful.

“So I am seeking some place where our people may be allowed to migrate until this danger has passed. I was hoping that the tundra could be that place.”

“Hmm…” Stronghoof broke eye contact to stand and survey a map on the wall.

“Your request is reasonable, and I have sympathy for your tribe’s plight. But the wilds of the tundra are too barren to support such a tribe, though I do not doubt that you could weather the cold. And the cities are already too crowded with reindeer seeking the security of the walls, and I think that life would fit your tribe poorly. ”

Sofrito hid his worry as he tried to think of an argument, but Stronghoof continued.

“However! The influence of Reine extends beyond the tundra.” He motioned Sofrito to stand with him by the map. “There are many empty islands known to us, some of which may provide an ideal place to shelter. Nowhere is truly safe from the predators, but you would at least only have the predators of that island to combat.”

Sofrito’s eyes widened at that.

“That might work! Do you have a particular one in mind? How could transport be arranged?”

“We are getting ahead of ourselves.” Stronghoof turned back to him. “Give me time to discuss the matter, and I will call for you again when I have more information. In the meantime, you are welcome to stay at Hoofstrong Lodge as an ambassador. I did not see your people amongst the Council of Elders, so it is fitting that I host you now.”

Sofrito bowed in respect. “You are generous, and I thank you.”

“I am honor bound to protect as a warrior. My duties to Reine as Jarl come first, but I will do what I can for your tribe.”

Author's Note

Look up cow earmuffs: they are used to protect calves in the winter and they are adorable.

Sofrito is a fanon name for Adobo's son that comes from Mostly Harmless, seen only briefly in Paprika's Book of Lore chapter.

Dogman15 commissioned art of him from TheScornfulReptillian also known as Redahfuhrerking, and it led to a talk on his personality as an ambassador of sorts with Scorn outlining some base personality ideas.

So he's basically an OC, but not technically an OC.

Writing a tourney arc and choosing to bring Shanty and Sofrito into it complicated things, but I hope to set up plot threads for the future of the story.

Strong Competition

“Svele in ze morning?”

Velvet looked up at her father as a sprite delivered her plate.

“For our guests.” Stronghoof raised a hoof to Arizona.

“I’ve heard that ‘pancakes’ are a customary prairie breakfast, is that right?”

“They’re a special treat!” Arizona smiled as the food was delivered, still overwhelmed by the service. “Ya didn’t have to, but thank ya kindly!”

“It is my pleasure.” Stronghoof summoned some strange small ice tools to cut the svele as Arizona, Paprika, and Shanty dove in.

Of their guests, only Sofrito attempted to use the silverware that had been set for them.

“This is great!” Paprika spoke between bites. “Reindeer can really cook!”

“Actually, the sprites did the cooking.” Stronghoof corrected.

Velvet scowled at their table manners, but her eyes widened as Arizona chugged down a mug of milk.

“Ah, just like home.” Arizona went back to the svele.

“You are a cow, but you drink milk?” Velvet tried to hide her distaste.

“Yeah, all the time. Why?” Arizona reached for another mug.

“But doesn’t it come out of you?” Velvet recoiled as Arizona spit her drink out.

“It’s not my milk, and ah’m too young for that!” Arizona blushed.

“Apologies.” Velvet took a breath. “Didn’t realize it vas a sensitive topic. But… you know who ze milk comes from most of ze time, yes?”

“Yeah, from my ma, mostly.”

Velvet covered her mouth with a gag as Arizona leaned in.

“An’ what’s wrong with that? It’s more natural than some deer drinkin’ cow milk!”

“Vell, we don’t usually know who ze milk is coming from, and ve certainly aren’t related. It is very strange!”

“But yer eatin’ with those icy things!” Arizona pointed to her utensils.

“These didn’t come out of me, and we only eat shaved ice!”

“Shaved what now?”

“Fancy ting dem deer do,” Shanty explained, “make some thin ice an pour syrup on it. It’s a treat.”

“I’ll have the sprites prepare some for you.” Stronghoof wiped his mouth and stood up from the table, “it’s very popular in our warmer holdings. But I must go now; I have business to attend to.”

“Thank ya again!” Arizona wiped her mouth.

Paprika was too busy enjoying a pancake to answer.

Sofrito bowed his neck. “Thank you for your hospitality.”

“You are always welcome. The tournament will begin at three in the afternoon, and contestants must gather by two. Listen for the town bell at one to announce it.”

“See you at two!” Paprika stuffed her face with one last pancake and zoomed off.

Shanty’s quick eating eventually slowed down at the abundance of food.

Dem just keep bring more! Mi could get used to dis champion ting, but haffi stay sharp an get di salt!

As she was considering stepping away to go train, Sofrito leaned to her side.

“Do you mind if I ask a question on the isles?”

“Sure.” Shanty shrugged.

“Do you know of any fertile, unoccupied islands?” Sofrito’s formal tone was not matched by Shanty’s reply.

“There’s nuffa dem deh. Neva pay much attention to dem.”

Sofrito took a moment to work out what she said. “Do you know of the leaders of any Goantani tribe who I should speak to about settling one?

“Wi nuh so formal. Nobady nah go care if yuh set up on a random island.” Shanty waved a hoof and narrowed her eyes with a smirk. “Haffi watch out fi pirates, though—especially di Goatani Greats!"

Velvet hid her reaction.

Well, they didn’t pick her for her subtlety.

Sofrito’s eyes widened. “Are they dangerous?”

“Eh,” Shanty shrugged again. “Not if yah pay dem off. Just nuh cross dem.”

Arizona slammed a hoof on the table. “I’d rather fight ‘em. No good bandits!”

“I like yuh spirit!” Shanty smirked. “Let’s see if yuh can back it up.”

“Don’t vorry about zhem,” Velvet cut in, “Reine has a navy hunting zhose miscreants.”

“Ha!” Shanty got a look from Velvet. “Nodady can beat di Greats on di isles, but yuh welcome fi try!”

“I just might.” Velvet turned her nose up. “After I get the key and save the world, that is.”

“Not if ah beat ya to it!” Arizona and Velvet leaned in for another stare, but it was cut short by Sofrito asking Arizona a question.

“Would you mind telling me of the prairie? Do you think my tribe could live there?”

“It’s kinda like the high plains, I reckon.” Arizona tapped a hoof in thought. “But with more sun, heat, and less cliffs. Grass gets pretty sparse though, so we gotta move around all the time, but y’all are used to that. But you should talk to mah pa, Texas! He’s the Head Bull of the biggest herd around, an’ everyone listens to him.”

“Ah, so your tribe’s leader is your father.” Sofrito nodded. “I did not realize that we shared that in common.”

“Yeah, he’s a big deal.” Arizona smiled.

With breakfast done, the champions were about to go their separate ways when Paprika appeared in front of Shanty.

“Surprise! Your present is done!”

Paprika shoved a sweater in Shanty’s face as she recoiled.

“Wha?” Shanty glanced from it to her, noting that it matched her bandana.

“She said it’s a gift.” Arizona translated and tapped her earmuffs and sweater. “She made them for me, too.”

Why does hers get dye?

“Uh…” For the first time in a while, Shanty wasn’t sure how to react. “Why?”

“Because you’re cold, silly!”

“‘Cause it’s cold.” Arizona spoke for Paprika.

Shanty blinked.

Why she just give it to mi? We nuh even know each odda! But it is cold…”

“Thanks, den!” Shanty took it and put it on as Paprika buttoned it without being asked.

“Is it warm?”

“Cozy.” Shanty guessed with her response.

Can mi even call dis plunder? Bah, she just crazy.

Vixen threw another snowball and watched Dasher leave the circle again as he dodged it.

“Sorry! Ready again!” He stepped back in.

“Boo!” Vixen poked her head forward, spooking him to jump out of bounds as she shook her head. “You’ll never beat Velvet if you give up space zat easily.”

“Sorry.” Dasher's ears fell back. “I'm just nervous.”

“Clearly.” Vixen put a hoof on his shoulder. “We need to build you some confidence.”

“But it's Velvet! And I'm just—”

Vixen pulled the younger deer into a hug.

“You're one of the Elite, and ze sprites saw so much potential that zhey picked you as a little fawn; you're not ‘just’ anything.”

“Thank you, I needed that.” He hugged her back with some of the tension leaving his body. “But she's beaten all of us, and I was lucky to beat Comet.”

“You veren’t lucky.” Vixen narrowed her eyes.“You trained and improved while she got overconfident. I won't stand for you downplaying yourself like zhis.”

“But—”

Dasher went cross eyed as Vixen put a hoof over his mouth.

“No buts! Repeat after me: I am Dasher, I am an Elite, and I am going to show it!”

“I am Dasher, I am an elite, and I am going to show it!”

“Better.” Vixen smiled. “Remember that no one is unbeatable, not even Velvet. Do you know how I managed to beat her once?”

“Because you’re incredible.”

Vixen snickered at his response. “Because I believed I could, even after losing many times.”

“I don't like my odds, though.” He looked down.

Vixen sighed. “It is possible that you vill lose; it is impossible that you must lose. I believe zat if you believe in yourself and do your best, you vill make a good showing.”

Dasher paused in thought before smiling.

“That's enough for me, then.” He surprised her with another hug. “Thanks, Vixen.”

“You're always velcome.”

Donner and Blitzen locked horns and dug their hooves in as each tried to shove the other back.

Blitzen pushed forward, but lost his footing as Donner twisted his neck and flipped him on his side.

“Good round.” Donner immediately offered a hoof. “Ready for a break?”

“Sure.” Blitzen waved Thundra to fetch more water as they both sat, panting.

Donner broke the silence as Blitzen drank from his ice cup. “So, excited for your next round?”

“The newest against the first.” Blitzen scoffed. “Hardly a fair fight. I was hoping for a rematch with Paprika before that questionable display.”

“She must have different priorities, but the other was good for a beginner.” Donner paused for a drink. “But you have more to think about today. Fighting Cupid will be an introduction to him, of a sort.”

“Indeed.” Blitzen got up and started stretching. “I must show him why I am the leader.”

“Just don’t forget that there’s more to leadership than strength.” Donner stood. “He’s more of a Prancer than a Vixen; he will need our encouragement and support.”

“Fair enough.” Blitzen took his place again. “Then I’ll look for what I can help Cupid improve on in our match. Ready?”

“On three!”

Dancer sped forward on her skates, racing around an empty clearing.

She jumped and spun in a bladed kick, landing and backing up on her hindlegs as her forehooves threw a pair of blades.

Still not fast enough!

“Bravo! Bravo!” Velvet stomped her hoof in applause.

Dancer nearly tripped. “Oh, uh, hi! Wasn't expecting an audience.”

“Vell, I couldn't resist a private performance.” Velvet seamlessly skated over to her. “And I thought you'd like a training partner.”

“Well, I kind of came here to be alone…” Dancer glanced away before looking up to her. “But what did you have in mind?”

“Don't be nervous!” Velvet conjured seats of ice for both of them. “You've improved with your ice magic with that stunt yesterday, and I thought I could share a few tricks.”

Dancer hesitated before taking her seat. “I’d appreciate it, but you've never trained with me before.”

“You never asked.” Velvet smiled. “I'm always happy to have more training partners—maybe ask your brother and that new deer if they'd be interested.”

“Oh.” Dancer blinked. “So everyone except—”

“Yes.” Velvet's eyes narrowed briefly. “Everyone except him.”

Velvet cleared her throat and regained her friendly voice. “But I'm not here to ruffle your floof before the tournament. We can just drill on some new techniques, and in exchange, maybe you can give me a skating lesson.”

“Ah,” Dancer tried to sound casual with a chuckle. “So there is a catch.”

“Training partners help each other, nothing unusual.” Velvet got up as her seat vanished. “Everyone knows you're the best skater in Reine, and I'd like to improve on that to face my rival… But if you stop her with my advice, I still vin!”

That got a genuine laugh from Dancer as she stood. “Fair enough. I'll just ask that you go easy on my brother after—well, after the match.”

“Of course! I don't bite.” Velvet leaned in as Dancer’s eyes widened. “Outside of ze ring, at least. Besides, Vixen would kill me.”

“She told me I should talk to you.” A faint smile formed on Dancer’s muzzle. “Wish I'd done it sooner.”

“Any time!”

“Aaah!”

Cupid fell flat on the snow after another flying attempt.

“Good try.” Prancer helped him up. “I think we should start with simpler wind magic, though.”

“Yeah, it's a really advanced technique.” Comet sounded a bit too proud of herself as Prancer stared. “Happy to share my expertise, though.”

Cupid stood and shook snow off. “Never had a knack for ice or wind.”

He jumped as Paprika poked her head out of a snow pile.

“Aw, I'm sure you'll figure it out!” Her fur poofed and sent the snow everywhere. “But why not work on what you're good at?”

“When did you…” Comet blinked as she tried to think of when Paprika could have possibly gotten in there unnoticed.

“Oh, ah.” Cupid took a step back. “I guess that makes sense. Good to see you again.”

“I wanted to make sure my friend was ready!” She bounced in place. “I'd love to help you train!”

Prancer stepped up to her. “Paprika, isn't it? I'm curious what training you'd recommend.”

“Well, we could practice flips!” Paprika jumped back, pushed off the ground with her forehooves, and landed on all fours.

Cupid smiled and copied the backflip.

“That's pretty good!” Comet tried to copy it and caught her antlers on the ground, landing on her face.

“Don't feel bad.” Prancer picked her up as she groaned. “That looks pretty advanced.”

The others chuckled as Comet stared.

“Well, I would be happy to share my expertise.” Cupid chuckled and turned from Comet to Paprika. “Any other ideas?”

“Well, you're a good hugger!” She held out her arms, and after some hesitation he gave in and hugged her as Prancer and Comet shared a look.

But to his surprise her grip tightened painfully before releasing.

“Oh! Sorry, I thought we were practicing.” Paprika lowered her head.

“It's fine.” He rubbed his side. “Didn’t think your grip was that tight.”

“Oh, that was just a warm-up.” Paprika blew a raspberry and picked up a training log from the sleigh. “Watch this!”

The deer looked puzzled as she hugged it, jumped as they heard a crack, and winced as splinters flew and it snapped in two.

“Now you try!” Paprika shoved a log to Cupid as his mouth hung open.

“Uh… Maybe something softer first?”

“Great idea!” Paprika gasped and pulled him onto a hug again.

Comet tested summoning a snow veil and jumping back as Cupid practiced his grappling.

“Work on what you’re good at, eh? I’ve got an idea.”

With her new sweater making the cold more bearable, Shanty went for a run along the wall to warm up.

Bein’ a champion has some nice perks, fi sure. But mi haffi stay focused! Haffi get di key!

Shanty chuckled to herself as she shifted to running on the wall.

Hah! Guess that's di idea of a champion anyway. Just haffi memba who's really on mi side. Bravura will make me her new first mate - nay - Captain after dis! Mi a go hit di big time and show her I'm a real pirate! But fi now, haffi focus pon dat prize salt.

She stopped to wave at a plump deer looking to the wall through a window, who dropped her ice ice cream cone.

Ha! Mi can sneak roun and nuh even worry ‘bout being caught!

She decided to scamper up on the ramparts to look out on the city, and peeked over to see a pair of guards.

She crept up behind them and breathed in for an Aye!, but stopped as one started talking.

“How is she not tired yet?”

“Don't know, just glad she's not breaking the ground in our streets.”

“Who's breaking ground?” Shanty ran between them to peer out as they both jumped to the side.

“I-you’re not supposed to be here!” The first guard tried to regain composure.

“Yeah, yeah.” Shanty waved a hoof. “It's too easy fi sneak past ya. But who yuh a look pont?”

“Her.” The other guard pointed to Arizona stomping in the distance.

“Thanks!” Shanty scampered down the wall.

After a pause, the first guard asked, “Why do we even have a wall?”

Shanty arrived to find Arizona retying her lasso after checking it and comparing ropes laid on a rock.

The goat snuck up on her out of habit and peered over.

“Honda knot, eh?”

Arizona startled and dropped the rope end she had in her mouth.

“Oh, it's you. I can talk later, but ah need to get this ready and get back to practicing.”

“Lemme see it.” Shanty scooted the rope over and had it in a perfect lasso in seconds. “Deh yuh go!”

Arizona leaned in to inspect it. “Color me impressed! Didn't think you'd know your knots.”

“Bah!” Shanty scowled. “Goats dem di best at it! Yuh haffi know dem fi be a real sailor—lemme show ya!”

Before Arizona could protest, she had the lasso undone and was retying something else.

“Now dis is a netting knot, great for hammocks!”

“Bowline!”

“Sheet Bend!”

“Clove hitch!”

“This Pirate-…Rope-…Ah-……Thingamajig!”

“Golly, you weren't kidding!” Arizona couldn't take her eyes away as Shanty showed off every knot she knew and many she didn't.

“Aaand Honda knot!” Shanty finished by retying the lasso and setting it by her.

Arizona stomped a hoof in applause. “That's mighty impressive! But can ya do this?”

Arizona grabbed the rope and spun it in a stationary loop in the air before jumping through it as she sent it left and right.

“Fancy trick!” Shanty smiled as she watched. “Mine’s more practical, though.”

Before she realized what was happening, Arizona had the lasso roped around her neck.

“You were sayin’?”

“Alright den, we call it even.” Shanty pulled the rope off her head.

“Deal.” Arizona looped the rope and put it back in her saddlebag.

“Cattlekind mostly use rope to pull our covered wagons, everything you'd need for home on wheels! The tricks are just fun.”

Shanty folded her forehooves and leaned on the rock. “Sounds like a ship on wheels. Guess you don't have much water.”

“That we don't.” Arizona chuckled. “But you shoulda seen our last river crossing though—Pa near lost a whole wagon aiming for a shortcut! Makes me miss my folks, been away awhile.”

Arizona gave a wistful look to nothing in particular before snapping out of it.

“So, what about your folks? What's it like on the islands?”

“Oh!” Shanty scrambled for something to say, hiding an old hurt behind a smile. “Pretty much di same, we sail anyweh we want on ships. Sometimes we jus chill pon di beach, though.”

In her head, Shanty replayed rare memories of one on one time with Bravura.

“Mi Mama taught me how fi fight deh.”

“My Pa taught me everything I know, least about adventuring and fighting.” Arizona smiled. “Guess we've got a lot in common! If you're ever in the prairie, look for Texas’s herd and tell ‘em Arizona sent ya!”

“Guess we do.” Shanty’s smile faltered for a blink before she put the mask back on. “Mi family sails around a lot though, probably hard fi find dem.”

The fighters met again when the bell rang, with the other contestants invited to attend.

Comet and Prancer were giving Cupid some last pointers when Blitzen approached and cleared his throat.

“Regardless of how our match goes, I am honored to welcome you to the Elite. We must train together when this is over.”

“The honor is mine.” Cupid tried to compose himself. “Grew up watching ‘The Blitz’ break record after record as a fawn.”

“Hmph!” Blitzen grinned. “Be careful with nicknames, Cup, or they might stick.”

Velvet and Vixen met in the back, watching the Elite twins converse from a distance.

“So how did he do?” Velvet asked.

“He's improved.” Vixen turned to her. “But he has confidence issues. He's not ready for your snark, if you can hold back.”

“Zhen I vill not use zat weapon.” Velvet smirked. “I’ll just have to make do with my unstoppable Winter Magic.”

“How humble of you.” Vixen rolled her eyes.

“Vell, I have done some mentoring of my own.”

“Oh?” Vixen raised an eyebrow.

“I met up with Dancer and showed her a few things. Nice girl, but shy.”

“You have zat effect on others.” Vixen returned Velvet's stare. “But I'm proud of you for reaching out!”

Vixen narrowed her eyes with a grin. “Or vas zat about getting her to knock out your rival so you don't have to?”

“Hmph!” Velvet huffed. “I'm getting my rematch no matter what, but I did pick up something to beat her in ze deal.”

Paprika walked in with Sofrito. “So how was your nap?”

The younger alpaca yawned, but the long days of travel were gone from his eyes. “Lovely. I needed that.”

Cupid broke off from the group to meet them. “Hey, if you don't mind, could we do the breathing exercises again?”

Sofrito blinked before nodding. “Of course. Sit with me.”

Paprika didn't last long with them breathing deep with their eyes closed, but Dasher and Dancer decided to join them in Sofrito’s instruction.

“Breathe in… Breathe out.”

“How are you doing?” Paprika walked up to Arizona doing stretches. “Haven't seen you much today.”

“I'm fine, just trainin’ mostly.” Arizona returned a hug from Paprika. “Once this wraps up, we can check more stuff off your list.”

“Just being with my friends is enough.” Paprika pulled her closer.

“Reindeer, Sprites, and all visitors to our fair city, welcome to the second day of the First Reine Tournament of Champions!” Stronghoof announced as the bracket schedule was revealed.

Dancer
(M1) Vs.
Arizona

Dasher
(M4) Vs.
Velvet

Cupid
(M2) Vs.
Blitzen

Stronghoof
(M3) Vs.
Shanty

“Eight warriors have made it to the second round: three Champions, four of the Elite 8, and of course, your Jarl!”

He let the crowd cheer before continuing.

“And for the first match of the day, I call Dancer of the Elite 8 and Arizona, Champion of the Prairie!”

“Good luck.” Dasher shared a smile with his sister and nodded to Arizona. “Both of you.”

Arizona clearly saw Dancer’s unease as she skated up.

Arizona bowed. “However this goes, we’re still friends.”

Dancer bowed with a small smile. “Right.”

In the stands, Dasher leaned forward with his forehooves over the booth wall.

Donner joined him there. “So, who are you rooting for?”

Dasher’s ears fell. “Just want them both to do well. Worried about Dance.”

“That’s fair.” Donner patted him on the back. “She didn’t get to round two on luck, though. Have some faith.”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM!

Arizona opened with a quick one-hoof stomp, expecting Dancer to retreat as she’d done before, but, instead, she jumped and scored a spinning jump kick on her head.

“Yeowch!”

Arizona raised one forehoof too late to block on instinct, and, as she recovered, Dancer blew on her other forehoof, freezing it to the ground as Arizona tried to pull it loose.

“Come on! Just—”

Dancer reared up and stomped with both hooves, nearly matching Arizona’s form.

But instead of shaking the ground, a pillar of ice burst from it and sent Arizona flying.

Dancer immediately threw a pair of ice blades and both hit, sending Arizona into a tumble before hitting the ground hard on the other side of the arena.

“Good form!” Velvet shouted from the booth.

When Arizona recovered, she saw Dancer breathing frost on the ground as her horns dimmed, covering most of the area in ice.

Arizona raised a hoof to stomp, but was forced to block a flying blade instead as Prancer skated backwards on her hind legs.

Arizona narrowed her eyes. “Bring it on!”

“My pleasure.” Dancer smiled back and threw another blade, which Arizona broke with a headbuck.

Dancer spun into a pirouette, flinging a hail of ice blades at Arizona. She dodged the first and blocked the next two with hoof and horn, but took four direct hits as she spun and threw them faster and faster.

Prancer sure made it look easy. Got to get rid of that ice!

Arizona forced herself up to continue blocking, and finally seized an opening and stomped with one hoof while deflecting a blade with her horns, cracking the receding ice.

But moments later, she had to dodge a spinning blade curving through the air following a fast direct one. Dancer used the time to breathe on the ground again as she skated, renewing the ice rink.

Arizona noted that she was battered and breathing heavily while Dancer’s horns had their color again.

This ain't working, I can't take much more of this!

Remembering one of her dad’s favorite moves, Arizona went back to blocking patiently, advancing as the ice receded and waiting for Dancer to renew it.

Arizona blocked with a headbuck, a stomp, another horn slice, and a punch, but flinched as a curving blade burst on her side with two more hitting while her guard was down before ducking the next one.

Her opening finally came as Dancer threw a curving blade to cover her frost breath.

Arizona stomped and twisted her hooves, pushing the ground as a pillar of rock stabbed out of and shattered the blade on the way up.

Not near as big as Pa's, and it won't last forever, but that's somethin’.

Dancer looked up from renewing the ice with wide eyes.

“Didn't think you could do that, smart!”

“Ah still have some tricks in the bag!” Arizona called back as she hid behind the narrow pillar, trying to think of something else and noting that it barely covered her.

Her reprieve didn't last long as a curving blade nearly blindsided her before she ducked.

I'm harder to hit here, but I also can't see what she's up to. If I stomp this pillar’s goin’ down, then I'm toast if she jumps in!

Dancer started to circle the pillar, speeding up and getting closer as her blades got harder and harder to dodge and another hit home.

With the ice finally ringing the pillar, Arizona made a desperate plan.

Hope this works!

She kicked off the ground and slid into the ice backwards, barely staying on her hooves with her one day of skating practice.

Dancer mistook it as a miss and pivoted to charge her.

“You should have stay—”

Her eyes widened as Arizona’s lasso shot out, and she barely had time to feel relieved on it missing before it clotheslined her from the side and looped around the rock pillar.

Arizona yanked the rope to send herself hurtling toward Dancer, and she sent her skidding across the ice with a sliding headbuck.

As soon as Arizona was back on steady ground, she reared up and slammed the ground with all her might.

“EEEYAAH!”

The shockwave flung Dancer high in the air as the audience bounced from their seats, and all the ice on the ground shattered alongside the pillar.

Arizona took a moment to recover her lasso as Dancer crashed, giving her time to get up as Arizona dashed forward.

Dancer jumped back to dodge a jab, leaving a trail of ice that Arizona slipped on in her pursuit, followed by Dancer tripping her with a sliding kick to her forelegs.

“Ach!

Dancer started to skate backward on her hindlegs, but, as she moved a foreleg to throw an ice blade, Arizona's lasso closed around it.

“Uhhagh!”

Dancer was yanked toward her opponent, sped up by her own ice slick before a lariat from Arizona's horns slammed her to the ground.

Dancer’s head spun until her vision cleared to see Arizona pinning her with a hoof.

Dancer tapped out.

“And our first winner is, Arizona!” Stronghoof called.

Both contestants were battered and bruised as Arizona helped her up.

“Great work out there! Ya almost got me.”

“Thanks.” Dancer winced and put a hoof to her head. “Yowch, you hit hard!”

“Heh, you should see my pa.”

Dasher was the first to greet them, moving to let his sister lean against him on the way to her seat.

“You were incredible, both of you!”

“Of course zhey vere.” Velvet walked up. “My student and my rival.”

“Student?” Arizona tilted her head as Dancer smiled..

“I showed her some things.” Velvet grinned at her. “Easy to teach someone with so much talent.”

“Thanks.” Dancer blushed.

“A glorious showing from Dancer, and a battle worthy of a champion!”

Stronghoof played up the crowd.

“And now for our second match, I call Cupid and Blitzen of the Elite Eight!”

Blitzen bowed. “Let’s give them a show worthy of the Elite!”

Cupid bowed. “I’ll do my best.”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM!

Blitzen lunged with a boost of wind, catching Cupid as he tried to jump back.

Cupid locked horns defensively, but lost control as Blitzen forced him off balance with a twist of his head and threw him to the ground.

A veil of snow swirled around him as Blitzen turned and charged, and Blitzen’s antlers scraped the empty ground as it cleared.

Blitzen jumped back, but it was too late as a glowing snowball burst on him, slowing him with a chill.

“Clever.” Blitzen parried another snowball with frozen antlers. “But I didn’t come for a snowball fight!”

Blitzen rushed forward with ice extending his already large antlers.

Cupid backflipped and summoned a wave of snow from the sky, but the extra reach clipped him and sent him spinning as the snow stopped Blitzen’s momentum.

Blitzen shook it off, leaving a pile of snow around him as he lowered his antlers to block again, but Cupid used the time to move away and left more snow behind him.

“Your chill has already worn off, and I am unscathed.” Blitzen stared him down. “Don’t let me win on time.”

“I promised my best, and I’ll give it!” Cupid bowed and vanished behind another snow veil.

Blitzen readied himself to parry a snowball and dash, looking for which side Cupid dashed to, but Cupid appeared in front of him. Before he could react, Cupid squeezed him with a frigid grab.

“Let's dance!”

Chilled to the bone, Blitzen tried to push against him, but he was released, spinning on newly created ice, and he slipped and fell flat on his chest.

Cupid waved to the crowd as his horns shone and snow piled thick on the stage.

“Enough of this nonsense!”

Blitzen was furious, charging as Cupid spun to lock horns.

Cupid spun and started lowering his antlers to block Blitzen's charge, but Blitzen slid on a sudden sheet of ice to hit his exposed floof under them.

Blitzen flung Cupid into the air with a double back kick, sending him tumbling into a mound of snow that partly cushioned his fall.

Blitzen glared into his eyes as he pushed forward. “Take the fight seriously, or you'll end up like the Alpaca.”

Blitzen rushed forward again, and this time Cupid managed to lock horns after struggling to get up.

“I trained hard for this.” Cupid’s back neared the wall as he struggled to avoid being flipped. “Trying to impress you. She taught me the value of a distraction.”

“Dis—” Blitzen's eyes widened as Cupid let himself be backed into the corner, suddenly spotting an enormous snowball rolling at him from the side.

Blitzen broke the antler lock by shoving Cupid and pulling back, jumping out of the way, but he was caught and slowed by Cupid’s frost breath.

Cupid pushed the snowball with his glowing horns as it turned, speeding up and growing as he chased Blitzen down.

The snowball engulfed Blitzen completely, and Cupid let it roll across the field.

Cupid smiled and trotted behind it as it continued to grow. “And Vetr showed me the power of teamwork. Thanks, Aphrodite!”

“Thanks for giving me a role!”

Cupid and his sprite exchanged a high five as his horns glowed and the snowball slowed.

“And now for the big reveal!”

The snowball exploded into mist as he tapped it with a hoof, leaving a surprised Blitzen statue falling to the ground from standing on his hind legs, frozen solid and wobbling on the ground..

Cupid stood him up with a hoof around his neck to stabilize him and try to make the pose look natural, and waved to the crowd before turning to look him in the eyes. “Hope I made a good first impression.”

Blitzen almost tipped over again as Cupid hastily steadied him with a hoof.

“And the winner is Cupid!” Stronghoof called as Sprites loaded Blitzen onto a sled on his back. “What a remarkable first showing as an Elite!”

The crowd erupted in cheers and hoof taps as Cupid bowed and pulled the sled to the booth.

Velvet cackled as they entered. “You're quite beautiful, vhen you're not moving.”

Vixen sighed. “Vas zat really necessary?”

“Yes.” Velvet giggled.

Paprika had Cupid in a too-tight hug the moment he detached the harness.

“Ooh, your timing was perfect! I loved your show!”

“Couldn't have done it without you.” He hugged back, resigning himself to being stuck. “But from what I saw in training, you should have won.”

“I did win!” Paprika said. “I had fun and made a great friend!”

Cupid blushed as Donner, Prancer, and Comet approached.

“Great work!” Donner said. “Not many deer can lock horns with Blitzen for so long.”

“Prancer taught me.” Cupid looked at him as Donner smiled.

“Well, then he taught you well.”

“Just passing it on.” Prancer rubbed a leg and glanced away.

“Love your magic!” Comet leaned in. “Super creative! We have got to talk sometime—maybe work out some new techniques.”

“I have a lot of old ones to learn, too,” Cupid said.

Sofrito shook his hoof in congratulations.

“Well fought! But you left yourself open with that wave.”

“He was getting in his head, silly!” Paprika shook his hoof with both forelegs. “The mind games are half the fun!”

“Something like that.” Cupid nodded.

“Are you sure about this?”

Vetr whispered to Stronghoof in the break between matches.

“Only if it's close.” Stronghoof whispered back. “The plan will work better if she's engaged with the tournament longer.”

He cleared his throat to make the announcements.

“And now for our third match, I call Shanty, Champion of the Isles, to face the Jarl of Reine!”

Shanty ran to the stage and cartwheeled, landing on her back legs with her forehooves spread to play to the crowd, though Stronghoof got more applause jumping down to meet her.

Shanty bowed. “Heard you're a tough one!”

Even Bravura couldn't beat him! Shanty thought to herself.

Stronghoof bowed. “I want to see your best!”

They stepped away as the replacement announcer counted down and Stronghoof's eyes narrowed.

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM!

Stronghoof lunged with a dagger of ice to stop Shanty's approach as Shanty stepped forward, but it didn’t come close as she shimmied back.

They circled and stared each other down for a few seconds. Shanty kept her eyes locked with Stronghoof's as she noted Vetr circling the other direction.

Goin’ fi some two on one, eh?

She waited a second before suddenly—

“Aye!”

Stronghoof flinched at the surprise as Shanty listened for and heard Vetr flying on wind behind her.

Vetr flew in to grab her from behind, but Shanty sailed over him with a backflip, kicking him in the back before she landed with so much force that he slammed into Stronghoof's face and knocked him up onto his hind legs.

Shanty was under him before Vetr could pull away, knocking his breath out with a rising headbuck, then dashed back to get momentum for another attack.

Vetr pulled away from Stronghoof's face and barely dodged Shanty slamming down in a leaping headbuck.

Stronghoof's eyes barely had time to widen before their heads collided. He crumpled at impact as Shanty flipped from the force of the impact and landed on her hindhooves behind him.

Stronghoof groaned and started to stand as Shanty ran in on two legs to slam down for a finisher, but Vetr knocked her off balance with a slash from the dagger, which shattered on impact.

“Yow!”

Shanty pushed off the ground as she fell, launching herself to kick Vetr as he tried to follow up with a punch.

“Which of you is mi opponent any—Yaaa!”

A massive hammer sent Shanty flying across the field, bouncing off the wall and back into a shield bash that sent her tumbling into a different part of it.

“Reindeer and Sprites work together.” Stronghoof stood with a thrill in his eyes. “But you must face me! Take a rest, Vetr.”

Vetr floated off to the side, too battered to rejoin the fight.

Shanty rolled away and dodged an ice spear with a jump.

"Just you and me, den!"

Shanty and Stronghoof circled each other.

Shanty stood with a headbuck ready but feinted to the side to dodge a great axe slicing down.

She slid under a hammer strike but took an ice-covered hoof kick to the head and was sent skidding back, though her thick skull mostly blocked it.

Stronghoof swung a greatsword down at an angle with enough force to embed it into the ground in front of her as she jumped to avoid it.

As Stronghoof readied an axe for his next attack, Shanty ran up the flat end of the sword.

Stronghoof brought the axe down and shattered it, but Shanty had already jumped into a spin over him.

For a split second, Stronghoof saw an opening to knock her out of the air by rearing up and swiping with his horns, but he smiled and chose not to take it.

A worthy battle!

Shanty plummeted from the air on the momentum of a falling hindleg kick, crumpling Stronghoof to the ground as it connected with his back and knocking him flat on his chest.

“Enough!” Stronghoof held up a hoof as Shanty stood up again for a headbuck. “You are victorious!”

Hope this was worth it.

Shanty cartwheeled in the air and landed on a standing wave to the crowd, as gasps and murmurs made way for stomping applause.

“You pack a punch!” Shanty smirked as Stronghoof dusted himself off. “Haffi be faster than that fi catch mi, though.”

“You fought well!" Stronghoof stood up slowly with a wince as he stretched his back. "I must invite you to a rematch.”

“Maybe afta mi win fi tourney.” Shanty grinned up at him as they parted ways.

In the booth, Velvet’s eyes narrowed in thought.

Was this part of your plan, or were you simply bested? Regardless, the Hoofstrong legacy falls to me. Of course it does.

“Thinking about your match?” Vixen nudged her out of it. “Last of the day, but no pressure.”

“Bah!” Velvet turned her muzzle up. “I’m glad to see him improve, but I’m not losing to Dasher.”

“Careful.” Vixen’s smile dropped. “Ze last time you talked like zat, you made a new rival. And he’s been training hard with her and me.”

“Zhen maybe it vill be interesting.” Velvet stretched. “Watch ze master at work.”

Vixen shook her head as Velvet walked off and winked at Blitzen, leaning against Cupid as he stood to prop him up where he could watch the match while sprites built a fire to thaw him.

Meanwhile, after giving Shanty a hoof bump, Arizona joined Dasher and Dancer.

“Just believe in yourself.” Dancer put a hoof on his shoulder. “So long as you can get a hit in, you’ll look good. I mean, you’re against Velvet.”

“Not helping.” He frowned. “And you set the bar pretty high.”

“Almost got me.” Arizona stepped up to him. “She surprised me out there, and I reckon you’ll surprise yourself.”

“Thanks.” He smiled, then flinched as Paprika poked her head in.

“You’ll be great! Oo, I’m so excited!”

Sofrito pushed Paprika away. “We have time for one more breathing exercise.”

“Sure, thanks.” Dasher sat with him.

“Breathe in… Breathe out. Breathe in…”

Just as Dasher had managed some calm, Stronghoof’s voice echoed again.

“And the winner is: Shanty! It brings joy to my heart to face such a worthy opponent. Truly, she brings pride to the Islands!”

Shanty actually blushed at the compliment and applause.

Not a lot of goats would say dat.

“And now,” Stronghoof continued, “It is time for the final match of the day: Dasher of the Elite 8 against our very own Champion of the Tundra, Velvet Hoofstrong!”

Dasher gulped as Arizona patted him on the back.

“Go get ‘er!”

Velvet strutted out with her head held high.

Velvet bowed. “So you’re my rival’s student now. Impress me!”

Dasher bowed. “I’ll try.”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM!

Dasher summoned a gale to close the distance as fast as possible for a headbuck,

Velvet sidestepped him with a wink as his momentum carried him far across the field.

With a tilt of her head, a patch of slick ice formed where Dasher landed, causing him to slip, faceplant, and flip again on his back before his speed wore off, leaving him far away from his opponent.

Velvet waved to him instead of pressing her advantage.

“Dash, you're more clever zan zat!”

“Don't let her get in yer head!” Arizona yelled out. “Kick that snooty moose!”

Velvet shot a glare to the booth, then turned to Dasher as icicles formed around her.

“Watch zis, cow. You're next!”

With that, she unleashed a flurry of icicles, but Dasher dodged them all with another gale and a jump to the side.

He's going to burn out if he keeps doing zat.

Velvet kept launching icicles, but she noticed him rationing his magic, dodging with smaller wind bursts and only using it half the time.

His pattern was too random to be caught by the spikes she made stab out from the ground as he hovered out of reach of her bigger ice attacks.

You really have been training with Vixen. But if you won't attack, I'm happy to win on time.

Dasher's nerves and panic made way for a focused confidence as he weaved through her attacks.

I'm actually doing it! I'm dodging Velvet!

He preserved his magic as much as possible until he found a perfect opportunity.

Velvet had started to zone on autopilot, almost bored as she waited on the clock, so she did not notice Dasher spinning in the air, redirecting and accelerating an icicle back at her until it was too late. Her eyes widened.

Crash!

The icicle broke through her incomplete ice shield and shattered on her floof.

Velvet's surprise slowed her reaction more than the attack alone would have.

That gave Dasher the second he needed to dash up to her and use a combo Arizona taught: hammering his antlers for a headbuck, jabbing her jaw, and then spinning for a double kick from his hind legs boosted by wind, sending her flying with her back slamming against the wall.

“Vat?!”

Velvet pushed off the wall and summoned a cyclone of wind and ice, hovering in it with a powerful wind blowing out from her.

“BOW BEFORE THE ICE QUEEN!”

"Ach!"

Dasher was pushed away by the sudden wind, and he let it carry him back to dodge a rain of icicles crashing from the sky.

Velvet sent a fan of four icicles out at once. Dasher was forced to block with a headbuck, but as he tried to gain ground, he was tripped and sent tumbling by ice spikes sliding across the ground.

"YOU DID WELL TO MAKE IT ZIS FAR, BUT ZIS IS GOODBYE!"

“I’m not giving up!”

Dasher stood again as Velvet summoned a rain of hailstones, but Dancer charged through as his horns started to glow. He sped up as his wind pushed against Velvet's and blew her hailstones to the side.

Velvet sent another wave of ice spikes across the ground, but Dasher jumped as his horns shone.

If this doesn’t work, I gave it my all.A howling gale shot Dasher through the air, flying into Velvet as she started to form another flurry of icicles and slamming her against the wall. Velvet slumped against it as the crowd gasped.

Dasher stomped her floof with both forehooves as they hit the ground, knocking the air out of Velvet as she curled up.

He stomped a hoof to the side of her head in a traditional submission move, and when she did not react in time, Stronghoof called it.

“The winner is Dasher! What a marvelous upset!”

Stomping applause filled the stadium as the words registered for Dasher.

I won?! I didn't make it past the first round last time!

Dancer yanked her brother into a hug as soon as he made it to the booth.

“That was awesome! Just wait till mom and dad hear about it!”

Paprika joined the hug. “I knew you could do it!”

“What'd ah tell ya?” Arizona grinned. “Just believe in yourself!”

“Thanks.” Dasher blushed. “Couldn't have done it without you though, or… Where's Vixen?”

“Velvet.” Prancer answered softly.

“Oh.” Dasher’s ears fell.

“I e-expected better from her. ACHOO!” Blitzen sneezed as his sprite fetched another blanket.

Velvet stormed through the booth to the private washroom, slamming the door and collapsing to the ground.

“How?!” She sobbed. “How did I let that little runt of a fawn win?!”

“Velvet?” She heard a knock on the door.

She took a moment to compose herself and wipe her eyes before opening it.

Vixen locked the door behind her.

“This is what I warned you about.” Vixen tried to use as much sympathy as possible in her voice, but the words still stung.

“I know!” Velvet snapped back. “I don't need a lecture!”

“Maybe we just sit together.” Vixen laid down. “Talk if you want, or don't.”

Velvet took a deep breath and laid down beside her. Eventually, her breathing slowed, and she leaned against Vixen, crying into her coat.

“I'm supposed to be ze best!” Velvet broke the ice. “But now I look like a fool!”

Vixen paused to measure her words. “Or Dasher looks skilled. But I still think you are the best.”

“Flattery won't—”

“I'm not done.” Vixen interrupted as Velvet looked up into her eyes. “I think you are the best, and that you can beat any Champion in Fœnum or any monster from The Hold. But your ego is holding you back. The Velvet I've sparred with would never have left openings like that.”

Velvet stared back before glancing away at the floor. “No, she wouldn't have.”

Vixen nuzzled her cheek. “Let's put it in the past, then. I believe in you, and I'll do whatever it takes to help zat Velvet reach her potential.”

“Right now, zat Velvet needs snuggles.”

Stronghoof came home to find the sprites making preparations and his daughter bombarding the practice range.

“I trust you understand why you lost?”

Velvet turned to face him.

“I was arrogant, and that made me sloppy. It won't happen again.”

“Good.” Stronghoof nodded. “You will face many predators who are or appear to be beneath your skill. You must not give them a chance.”

“I know.” Velvet looked away before staring back. “Did you give Shanty a chance?”

Stronghoof stroked his floof. “Only at the very end. She may be as formidable as Bravura.”

“Why?” Velvet asked.

“She may be bonding with the other champions, maybe even starting to see herself as one. The longer she's in the tournament, the more she'll be in that mindset. I want her to see that it's better than a pirate's life. That she can be appreciated here.”

Stronghoof, Shanty, Arizona, Dasher, Dancer, and Cupid were in high spirits at the tournament feast as Velvet and Blitzen sulked in opposite corners.

“Ow!” Arizona clutched her head in her forehooves. “What in tarnation?!”

“That's brain freeze.” Dasher chuckled. “You need to slow down on your shaved ice.”

“How can somethin' so tasty hurt like that?!” Arizona stared at her bowl as she waited it out.

Dancer broke away and walked up to Velvet, clearly nervous to speak up.

“Vat is it?” Velvet tried to hide her annoyance.

“I just wanted to say thanks for all the training.” Dancer crossed her forelegs. “It really helped a lot.”

But you still lost… Maybe she has a better mindset.

“You are always velcome.” Velvet forced a smile. “You vere a great student.”

“Thanks!” Dancer nodded. “So, uh, see you later, sometime!”

Velvet shook her head as Dancer scurried back to the group.

Am I really that intimidating?

“Fancy moves out there.” Shanty nudged Cupid. “For a deer, at least.”

Cupid blinked and turned his eyes away from Blitzen. “Oh. Thanks! I've heard goats can be acrobatic, but you were incredible!”

“Yeah, I was.” Shanty grinned. “Stronghoof wasn't a chump either.”

Too bad I can't tell all my best stories.

After hearing Shanty brag more and talking about dance moves with the alpacas joining in, Cupid excused himself to sit by Blitzen.

“Hey, sorry if—”

“Don't apologize.” Blitzen took a breath and gathered his thoughts.

What kind of a leader would I be if I scorned him for doing well?

“I underestimated you, and you won fair and square. If anything, I am at fault.”

“I really was trying to impress you.” Cupid looked away for a moment.

“And you have.” A small smile broke through from Blitzen. “It is an honor to have you on the team, and I eagerly await a rematch, if you would permit it.”

“I'll look forward to it too, then!” Cupid nodded.

After the Elite left, Arizona found Velvet alone in the hall with another bowl of shaved ice.

“Hey,” Arizona said, only getting a glance from Velvet as she sat across from her.

“I reckon we all expected this to go differently, but yer still my rival, and we can still have our rematch.”

Getting a pep talk from a calf.

Velvet thought.

Oh, how the mighty have fallen.

“Thanks.” Velvet scooped another ice spoonful into her mouth.

“You know, I lost to another champeen before comin’ h—”

“Vat?!” Velvet leaned in. “Who?!”

“She called herself Oleander, Champeen of the Woodlands.” Arizona scratched her head. “Can't recall everything.”

“Why didn't you say something sooner?!” Velvet exclaimed.

“Didn't get to that part of the story.” Arizona shrugged.

Stupid cow!

“There may be some important information zhere.” Velvet turned. “Linen!”

Her sprite flew over with another bowl, which Velvet pushed to Arizona.

“Fetch pen and paper and more sprites; zis needs to be written down.”

With that, Arizona told the story of how she found the Temple of the Ancestors, and her encounter with the black unicorn and what sounded awfully like a demon between bites of frozen ice.

Velvet had a new gleam in her eyes as the story finished.

“Thank you. I vill make sure to pass zis on.”

“You’re welcome, I guess.” Arizona blinked. “Just, if ya want to train or talk about things, you know where to find me.”

Velvet blinked.

After everything, she still vants to be friends?

“Thank you.” Velvet said. “But I have some vork to do in ze library.”

A unicorn was looking for the monolith. Maybe they know something we don't?

Author's Note

After receiving feedback, the Stronghoof vs Donner and Shanty vs Vixen fights in Chapter 2 have been retconned and extended slightly.

The results are still the same, but they seemed too one-sided before.

Dasher and Dancer’s first introduction in Chapter 1 now describes them as fawns to show their age more clearly.

The milk gag at the start of the chapter comes from a comic by V-Nico.

https://x.com/V_Nico_/status/1693250773960839336?t=Jf16wjFdGwOyXZYIensd8Q&s=19

Shanty being skilled with knots is obviously tied to her time sailing, but the idea comes from an old Mane6 doodle.

https://x.com/mane6dev/status/1311412784756920320

Dasher managing to beat Velvet is a huge upset, and I hope I have not downplayed her or Stronghoof too much.

I wasn’t sure Velvet had been through enough character development to learn more humility, and her losing to a weaker opponent trying his best because she didn’t take them seriously seemed fitting.

Ideally I don’t want fights to just be about who’s strongest or who the environment favors: they should also be swayed by who has a greater motivation to win, and if a character losing could tie into their traits.

Rest assured that Velvet will get a proper rematch with Arizona.

Duty Calls

A sprite roused Stronghoof hours before the sun would rise, on his own orders.

“Tell the guards to let her in, and have her wait for me.” Stronghoof yawned and wiped an eye. “I will be there shortly.”

Though he yearned for sleep, duty came first.

Especially concerning predators.

He arrived to find a young but grown impala ewe shivering under a blanket, with metal horns strapped to her head.

“J-Jarl Stronghoof. I am—”

“You are cold.” Stronghoof interrupted. “Walk with me. We will discuss this with food and fire, and you may stay at my lodge as a guest.”

The sprite flew ahead to see to preparations as he led her back. She was too chilled and tired to object.

Shortly after in the night, a guard straightened to stand at attention.

“I'm sorry, ma'am, but you're not allowed—”

Velvet glared at him with bags under her wide eyes and a frizzy, unkempt floof.

“I’m here to help. Stand aside!”

The guard gulped as he felt the area cool rapidly.

“I’ll get the door,” he offered.

Dasher woke up with a squeak as he was shaken awake by Velvet and opened his eyes to see her looming over him.

“Get up and get some oats. We have training to do if you are going to beat my rival.”

Dasher didn't try to argue, and Dancer pretended to be asleep.

“Oo, who are you?”

Paprika stretched her neck across the table to the impala, who answered with a “What?”

“Pardon her, she's hard to understand at first,” Arizona said. “She just asked who you are. And what species are ya? Ah’m a bit fuzzy on folks outside the prairie.”

“Trudene. I'm an impala.” Trudene's face and tone hardened. “An’ I am de Champion of de Bushveld.”

“Howdy, then!” Arizona reached across to shake hooves. “Ah’m Arizona, Champ’een of the Prairie. Pleased ta meet’cha! And she's the Champ’een of the High Plains!”

“Good to meet you, too.” Trudene’s eyes shifted from them to Stronghoof in bewilderment. “So, are you a champion as well?”

“No, that honor belongs to my daughter.” Stronghoof smiled, but his eyes told her that he recognized her doubt.

“An mi name Shanty, Champion fi di Isles!” Shanty said around a mouthful of salad as she ate too quickly.

When her gaze turned to the last guest at the table, Sofrito held up a hoof. “I am merely a diplomat, of sorts.”

“Aww, you're more than that!” Paprika pulled him into a hug, getting a resigned scowl from him. “You're smart and you'll make a great leader someday, I just know it! Ooh, and with a little more polish you'll be a good fighter, too.”

“I'm happy to just be a diplomat for now.” Sofrito sighed in relief as she released him. “But I'll be whatever I need to be to keep my tribe safe.”

Trudene glanced at the floor as Stronghoof cleared his throat. “While you are all here, there’s been a small bit of information on the Key, courtesy of Arizona.”

Arizona opened her mouth, but closed it to let Stronghoof continue.

“Apparently, Oleander, the Champion of the Woodlands, welding some dark magic I would not expect from unicorns, was also seeking the Monolith. This implies that they may know something we don’t.”

“Is there anything else we can do to help?” Everyone turned to Arizona. “Ah’m probably not much help with books, but I hate just waitin’ around.”

“You should focus on the tournament finals today!” Stronghoof pointed to her. “But I promise to keep you in the loop. If there is any other business you need to attend to, this may be a good time; the scholars at the museum said it will take at least a week to get through some new reference materials that just arrived.”

Stronghoof paused.

“But if you don’t mind, I would like you to take a look at an exceptionally valuable new item in our museum first: A Longma Ball. I believe you managed to find two of them, and I would like to confirm that.”

After breakfast, Stronghoof led Trudene down a hall to his office.

“Come, ask what you wish in private.”

Vetr shut the doors behind them, and she took a moment before speaking.

“Dose are de Champions?!”

“Yes,” Stronghoof said plainly.

“Children an’ a crazy alpaca?”

“That is not entirely wrong, but you underestimate them.” Stronghoof took a seat on a cushion.

Trudene refused to sit and swept a hoof through the air for emphasis as she spoke.

“How can dey possibly be de best deir species have to offer? Is dis a joke?”

“I can personally attest to their skill.” Stronghoof’s eyes narrowed.

“An’ I can attest to what de predators can do,” Trudene met his gaze. “Do you really trust dem?”

“They have more to learn, but I believe in them.” Stronghoof stared back, but his tone brightened. “Come to the finals of our tournament and see their strength for yourself!”

Stronghoof continued after she scowled. “You would do well to get to know them. You may come to depend on them in the future. When she is available, I will introduce you to my daughter: Velvet, the Champion of the Tundra.”

“An’ how'd she get dat position?” Trudene stared up at him.

“She earned it by defeating all challengers.” Stronghoof stood and loomed over her. “I would never dishonor the Hoofstrong family name with nepotism in this matter, nor risk the fate of Fœnum for personal gain.”

“Sorry.” Trudene recoiled. “I was just expecting you to be champion. Nataki said you were eager to fight.”

A guffaw broke Stronghoof's stare. “Ha! It would be a great honor! But I am needed here. Reine needs its Jarl, and some warriors must defend the hearth.”

Seeing that shake Trudene, he took on a gentler tone.

“But make no mistake: this world needs Champions to go out and face them. The Key is our only true hope of safety.”

“Tanks.” Trudene forced herself to meet his eyes. “I just hope we're enough.”

“Seeing them in action should brighten that mood. But I have some time before our arrangements can be made now, if you would like to do some training.”

“I- Of course.” Trudene nodded. “Let me get my tings.”

On her way back to her room, Paprika ambushed her with words she couldn’t understand.

“Hi! I made you a sweater!”

CRACK!

Another ice statue shattered after a midair kick from Dasher sent it crashing to the ground.

He collapsed, panting as he landed.

“More height! Zhat is not enough for her!” Velvet ordered, already making a new cow statue.

Dasher groaned. “Where did that technique come from, anyway?! You don’t even fight up close!”

“I do vhen I must, and part of being ze best is practicing new moves. Now, up up!”

Dasher sighed and got to his hooves, but a doe with purple antlers and a warm brown coat speckled with beige interrupted before they could begin.

“Dasher! We came as soon as we could!” Satin squeezed him into a hug, with Dancer and their father smiling nearby.

“Good to see you, mom!” Dasher hugged her back and moved to his dad, with a grey coat and darker teal horns than him, accented by dark brown streaks on his tail, forehead, and legs.

“I— We were just practicing.” Dasher looked back to Velvet with wide eyes as his father approached her.

“Velvet Hoofstrong!” Waltz shook her hoof. “I wish I could have seen your match, but I heard everything!”

“It vas not my best vork.” Velvet scowled.

“I got lucky,” Dasher hastily added.

“Don’t downplay yourself, I’m proud of you!” Waltz looked back to Velvet. “And it takes more than luck to beat our Champion, right?”

“Indeed.” Velvet’s eyes shifted to Dasher. “And he vill have to train hard if he vants to repeat zhat.”

“Speaking of that, thank you for training our fawns!” Satin smiled as Dasher and Dancer shared a nervous glance.

“It is my pleasure.” Velvet locked eyes with them. “Trust me, you vill not recognize zhem ven I am done!”

Dasher and Dancer gulped, but their parents didn’t seem to notice.

“Vell, Dasher needs to rest for his match, and I vill not keep you from family time. See you at ze tournament!”

Velvet smirked at Dasher as he glanced away.

“Bye!” Waltz and Satin waved.

“She’s nicer than I remember,” Satin said.

“You’re not the one training with her.” Dasher stretched a hindleg.

“So,” Dancer changed the subject, “see anything interesting on your route?”

“Plenty, business is good!” Waltz set his saddlebags down and rummaged through them. “Here’s a souvenir from the Goatani Isles!”

They draped seashell and coral necklaces over their fawns’ horns.

“Thanks!” Dasher smiled into Waltz’s ice mirror, though it faded as he lowered it. “But are the roads still safe?”

“Maybe it’d be better to shelter in Reine for a while.” Dancer added. “We can spare some salt if you need it.”

“Nonsense!” Waltz looked between them. “We’re safe traveling in caravans, and not being on the road at night when it’s just us.”

“If things get dangerous, we’ll get to safety.” Satin put a foreleg around her husband. “Promise!”

Elsewhere, Cupid was recovering from his own intense training, after being flung into a pile of cushioning snow from another antler lock.

“You’re doing better!” Blitzen offered a hoof to pull him up. “Just need to work on your balance and build those neck muscles.”

“Thanks Blitz— I mean, Blitzen!” Cupid hastily corrected.

“Either is fine.” Blitzen smiled, but noticed Vixen motioning to him in the distance with a head tilt. “Let’s take a break here, then we’ll go back to practicing your keep-away.”

“Sure!” Cupid nodded. “Thanks again for training me.”

“It’s the least I could do; have to make sure you have a good showing! Be right back.”

He followed Vixen around the corner to find Donner and Prancer waiting as well.

“Breaking in our newest member, I see?” Vixen said.

“He asked to train with me, and it was the least I could do.” Blitzen locked eyes with her.

“You vere playing pretty rough with zhose throws.” Vixen stared back.

“If you have something to say, say it.” Blitzen narrowed his eyes.

“Fine.” Vixen dropped all subtlety. “Are you doing vat is best for him or your ego?”

Blitzen sighed. “I will admit, it is humiliating to lose to a new recruit, and it is tempting—”

“He’s got talent.” Prancer interrupted. “You shouldn’t feel that—”

“But,” Blitzen continued. “I would not stoop that low. And he’s oddly humble about winning. Hard to stay mad at him, really.”

“I can see how zhat feels unusual.”

Blitzen shot Vixen a look as she smirked.

“He looks up to you.” Donner stepped forward. “Kept asking me questions and worrying that you’d think his win was cheap or you’d be angry with him. I told him that training with you is a good introduction.”

“Ah.” Blitzen blinked. “I’ll be careful with him, then.”

“I think he’s having the time of his life with his hero, but he’s sensitive,” Donner added. “Just remember that.”

As Arizona practiced, she lassoed rocks out of the air as Paprika tossed them for her, but Paprika was in the mood to talk while she threw.

“Having fun in the tournament?”

Annoyed at the interruption but not wanting to seem ungrateful, Arizona released the rope from her teeth to reply.

“Yeah, I’ve never had this much of an audience. Reindeer aren’t so different from cattlekind afterall.”

Arizona reached for the rope again with her mouth when Paprika asked a follow-up question.

“Seems like you’ve made some new friends!”

Arizona sighed and sat down. “The Elites seem like good folk; it’s been nice hanging out with the twins. Still not sure about Velvet, though.”

“She takes this so seriously.” Paprika said. “I say just have fun with it!”

“Well, gettin’ serious can be part of the fun.” Arizona said. “I get her being competitive and all. But ah need to practice to do my best for a friend next round.”

“Ooo, then let’s get to it!” Paprika smiled.

“Okay, ready!”

Stronghoof left on business after an intense but appreciated training session with Trudene, leaving her to warm up and relax in the lodge.

She was just about to find something else to do when Sofrito walked in.

“Is this a bad time to talk? As a diplomat, I mean.”

A child diplomat an’ a crazy champion. Trudene glanced at her new Paprika fleece sweater on the ground as she sat up. Alpacas seem strange.

“Not really. What is it?”

Sofrito composed himself as best he could. “The ancestral home of the Alpake, the High Plains, has always been inhospitable, but it is more dangerous than ever with the arrival of the predators. I came to ask if the Bushveld is safe from predators, and if my tribe might be welcome there.”

Trudene froze at those words, and Sofrito tilted his head in confusion.

“No!” She took a breath to steady herself. “I mean, no, it is not safe. An’ de safer places are already crowded.”

Sofrito recoiled. “I am sorry, I did not mean to pry.”

Trudene took a breath. “Stronghoof is organizing a meeting concerning it later today. You can hear it den if you want.”

“I understand.” Sofrito nodded.

An awkward silence passed before he spoke again. “Stronghoof offered my tribe refuge on an empty, but lush island. Perhaps it could be safe for impalas also, if the Bushveld is also dangerous.”

“Dey need more dan grass.” Trudene shook her head. “No offense, but we are not nomads.”

“Understood,” Sofrito said.

After another pause, Trudene asked, “I also do not mean to pry, but did somet’ing happen to make you want to leave your ancestral home?”

“No, it’s what I’m worried might happen.” Sofrito shook his head. “The High Plains has always been unforgiving with the lava, earthquakes, floods, sandstorms, and other dangers, but the caves and cloud cover are what concern me. Predators can roam in the day most of the time, and easily hide in caves whenever the sun is out.”

Trudene’s eyebrow had raised higher at each disaster. “Why did you stay dere at all, den?”

“Tradition, mostly.” Sofrito said. “We endure in the same lands we have always endured. That and, until now, outsiders would rarely bother us.”

“I can see why,” Trudene remarked. “If you can survive dere, any refuge shouldn’t be a problem.”

“That’s what I’ve said.” Sofrito scowled. “But my father, our leader, insists we stay put. He says the unknown may be more dangerous.”

“Ah, so you’re trying to convince him.” Trudene looked him over again.

“Yes, and the rest of the herd.” Sofrito sighed. “But they are stubborn.”

“Your effort is admirable, at least.” Trudene put a hoof on his shoulder. “Fœnum could use more leaders like you.”

“Thank you.” Sofrito smiled at the compliment. “Just a scout and messenger now, though.”

“But tell me,” Trudene said, “Why did dey choose DAT as champion?”

“Oh.” Sofrito motioned to the sweater. “I see she caught up with you. To tell the truth, she was exiled from the herd until recently for her recklessness. But I cannot think of a better choice.”

“Not many warriors, I’m guessing?” Trudene raised a hoof.

“We are not warriors.” Sofrito shook his head. “But we are tough; we have to be to survive the High Plains. But Paprika, somehow, always made it seem effortless. She is eccentric and easily distracted, but she is also strong. She’s always been cheerful, even in hard times, and as annoying as that can be I’ve missed it. In truth, I envy her some.”

“I hope you are right about her strength.”

Bored with warm-ups, Shanty decided to check out the museum.

Old books an pots? Mi did a hope fi see treasure.

The paintings were only slightly more interesting, but she stopped at a special display in the west wing that she’d been looking for. The jade orb housed in gold caught the light in a way that made her eyes sparkle.

Now dis is treasure!

Unbeknownst to her, a sprite watched through a hidden slit in the wall nearby.

If it important like dem seh, mi sure Bravura would be impressed, bet mi coulda—

Shanty shook her head.

No! Haffi get di key, cya blow mi cover.

She sighed and resigned herself to staring at her reflection in it, not caring about the nervous docent saying ‘Take your time.’

Plus, it kinda nice fi be champion.

“Good luck!”

“We’ll be cheering for you!”

Satin and Waltz hugged Dasher and Dancer in turn.

“Thanks.” Dasher’s ears tilted as he glanced over to the other Elites waiting. “Gotta get going, though. See you in the intermission!”

Dasher glared at Comet as she snickered.

“What?” Comet said. “It’s sweet. Got a chance to show off for them, and see if you last as long as your sister.”

“He doesn’t need more pressure.” Dancer scolded.

The rest of the Elite wished them good luck before they left to unwind.

Velvet appeared to be asleep when Vixen took her place beside her.

Shanty was caught staring at the fawns and their parents, and she startled when Paprika chirped something and held her forelegs wide.

“Wah?! No, mi nuh need no hug!”

Arizona went through her stretching routine with time to spare before the tournament started, making sure she wasn’t stiff from a morning of practice with Paprika.

As she scanned the room, she saw Cupid and Sofrito going through breat exercises again, Paprika attempting to talk to an annoyed Shanty, and the other Elites dispersed to their usual places to watch together.

But something seemed off with Dasher and Dancer.

“Mind if I sit with ya for a bit?” Arizona walked over.

“Uh, sure! No problem.” Dasher startled and straightened his seated posture as she sat down.

“So I reckon those were your parents.” Arizona tried to break the ice. “They seem nice.”

“They are.” Dasher nodded. “Sure they’d love to meet you later.”

“You can introduce us, then!” Arizona smiled. “Ah’d be happy to meet ‘em.”

Some time passed in silence before Arizona spoke again.

“Is somethin’ botherin’ you, if ya don’t mind my askin’?

Dancer opened her eyes and glanced up at Arizona from a prone position with her head on crossed hooves.

Dasher paused and sighed.

“Our parents work as traveling merchants, it’s why they weren’t here for the last fight.”

“That sounds nice,” Arizona said.

“It’s also dangerous, especially now,” Dancer added.

“Oh.” Arizona glanced at the floor before looking up with a firm expression. “Well, all the more reason for me to stop these varmints.”

“I appreciate it.” Dasher’s smile fell. “I just wish I could be there with them to keep them safe.”

“We both do.” Dancer sat up. “But we have duties as Elites, and finding the Key is Velvet’s job.”

“Well ya did manage to beat her—” Arizona was cut off by Dasher.

“She won the title, and I'd have probably lost quickly if she had taken me seriously.”

“But you’re…” Arizona paused to think as they stared back at her. “That’s fair, I guess. She’s a strong champ’een for sure. Blitzen said the Elites keep folks safe, though.”

“Folks in the Tundra, at least,” Dasher said. “But there's plenty of guards for that. Just feel like I could be doing more.”

“Why not ask Blitzen, then?” Arizona said.

Dancer snorted a laugh. “He calls himself leader, but we all work for the Sprites, really.”

“Ask them then.” Arizona tapped a hoof.

“Hard to know what they'll say.” Dasher squinted in thought. “But it will be months before Winter comes for our big mission.”

His expression brightened as he tapped a hoof. “I will ask them. Thanks!”

“It was nothin’.”

“Reindeer, Sprites, and all visitors to our fair city: welcome to the final day of the First Reine Tournament of Champions! We are about to witness a showdown of Fœnum’s finest warriors!”

Shanty
(M1) Vs.
Cupid

Dasher
(M2) Vs.
Arizona

The crowd cheered as the bracket was revealed. Stronghoof glanced at Trudene in her booth nearby before continuing.

“The Grand Finals will take place after a five-hour intermission for our finalists to rest, but, now, it is time for our first match. I call Shanty, Champion of the Isles, and Cupid of the Elite 8!”

Shanty cartwheeled out to show off to the crowd with Cupid following suit; both of them ended in improvised poses standing on their hind legs.

“Wicked moves!” Shanty stepped back to her starting position. “Now let's see how yuh dance.”

“With flair!” Cupid turned with a wisp of snow.

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM

Shanty jumped forward and sliced the air with a kick, missing and sailing over Cupid as he dropped flat on the ground.

She shifted into a roll on landing and ducked under Cupid's double hindleg kick as he pushed himself up with his forelegs.

Both turned and recovered at the same time. They circled each other as snow began to fall.

“Good duck!” Shanty said. “But dat was just a warmup.”

“Then maybe we should cool off.” Cupid summoned a veil of snow and charged forward with his antlers, hoping to catch Shanty chasing him in a feigned retreat.

But she wasn't there.

“Fancy trick!”

Cupid only had time to turn as Shanty shot off the wall behind him, slammed into his side, and sent him rolling lengthwise.

“But mi see dat already!”

Rolling over a snow drift slowed and stabilized Cupid. He dodged back on his hind legs a hair before Shanty's head slammed down from a standing headbuck.

As Shanty caught herself on her forelegs, Cupid countered by blowing frost over her back.

Shanty managed to step back from a stomp of his hooves stomping down and mostly block his antler strike with her own horns, but the chill impeded her retreat and cut off the option of retaliatory strikes.

Shanty took a jab across the cheek but managed to deflect another with her forehoof.

Cupid inhaled deeply for another frost breath to break through her guard, but Shanty spun and knocked the wind out of him with a quick hindleg kick.

Unfortunately for Shanty, her kick released all of Cupid’s built up frost onto her as the wind was knocked out of him. It froze her to a crawl as Cupid stumbled back and summoned a snow cloud with a glow from his horns.

His labored breathing normalized as Shanty shook the frost off, leaving them out of hoof reach with snow drifts building between and around them.

Cupid slowly stepped back as Shanty stepped forward. Both watched each other's movements as they started to circle again.

Cupid tilted his head and sent a snowball hurtling towards her, but Shanty dodged it easily with a smirk and a hop to the side.

“Missed me!” Shanty taunted.

“Try this then!” Cupid launched snowball after snowball at her but focused on his positioning more than aim: bringing Shanty behind a snow drift as they circled.

“Burn all di magic yuh want!” Shanty called. “Yuh never gonna ketch me!”

“Wasn't aiming for you.” Cupid smiled.

Her eyes widened as Cupid spun on a forehoof and swiped the drift with a hindhoof kick.

She thought she was out of range of his hoof, but as the snow scattered, it glowed and chilled her again, making her flinch from the cold.

As Cupid readied himself to charge, Shanty jumped back to the wall to buy time, but she slipped off as she noticed too late that it was covered in slick snow.

Cupid caught Shanty out of the air as she slid off the wall and drew her into a freezing hug.

“G-get offa me!” Shanty yelled.

“Be free!” Cupid released her spinning on a hindhoof toward a sheet of ice he conjured on the ground, but Shanty managed to fall forward and pull herself into a roll, accelerating on momentum despite the chill.

Cupid hesitated in surprise at her escape before shifting to stand on a forehoof and swiping at her with a spinning hindleg kick, but it was too late to catch Shanty before she rolled into a snow drift.

“Did you forget my last round?” Cupid recovered to lunge and touch the snow with his glowing antlers, and it vanished into a white mist.

It cleared to show Shanty crouching, catching herself with a hoof to spring out of her roll, but motionless in the cold.

Cupid relaxed and smiled as he walked over and reached a hoof down to tap her head. “Thought it'd take more than that.”

He recoiled as Shanty smirked, which gave her the perfect opportunity to launch him through the air with a headbuck.

“It do!”

As Cupid flipped through the air, Shanty ran with his trajectory and stopped his fall with a headbuck to his barrel, with her head rising up to catch him as he fell down.

Cupid flopped on the ground, wheezing, and tapped out.

“And the winner is Shanty! Excellent planning on both sides!” Stronghoof smiled as he saw Trudene cheer with the crowd following the announcement.

In the ring, Shanty helped Cupid’s sprite pull him up on his feet. “Nice hoofwork, but yuh need fi work pon yuh hits.”

Cupid held a hoof to his barrel as his breathing stabilized.

“Coming from you, that’s a good compliment. That was a clever trap.”

“You were both amazing!” Paprika yanked Cupid into a hug as soon as he got back, and when she stepped away, a rose red sweater with gold-dyed accents was buttoned around him. “Also finished your sweater, do you like it?”

Cupid blinked and looked it over. “You’re just full of surprises, aren’t you?”

“Yep!” Paprika grinned.

“Love it, thank you for that.” He nodded to Sofrito standing next to her. “And thank you for helping me calm down.”

“Any time.” Sofrito bowed.

“Great work! That got close!” Blitzen tilted his head for Cupid to sit by him, and he eagerly ran over. “It seems we both fell for some trickery.”

“It was a good trick, at least.” Cupid made a bed of snow and laid down on it.

Elsewhere in the booth, Arizona gave Shanty a hoofbump, but she turned and saw Dasher breathing heavily.

I’m the last reindeer in the tournament. If I blow it in front of everyone—

Arizona interrupted those thoughts with a hoof on his shoulder.

“I ain’t goin’ easy on ya, but I believe in you. Let’s get out there and show them what we can do!”

Dasher smiled as the words settled in. “You got it!”

Dancer grinned behind them, and called “Good luck!” as they left.

Vixen chuckled from her distant corner of the booth. “So, vich one are you rooting for?”

“Either vorks for me.” Velvet yawned. “But zhey better beat zhat goat!”

“For the last match of our semi-finals, I call Arizona, Champion of the Prairie, and Dasher of the Elite 8!”

Dasher took his steps and bowed.

“It is an honor to fight you.”

Arizona bowed.

“Show me how hard you've been trainin’. I'm ready for ya!”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM

Arizona started with a quick one-hoof stomp, but Dasher dodged it by hopping back.

As soon as he landed, Dasher rushed forward with a burst of wind and lowered his antlers, but Arizona caught them with her horns.

She slid back from the momentum of his charge as he tried to push forward, but, after digging her hooves in, she flung him away to break the horn lock.

Dasher slid back once he landed. Arizona threw her lasso, but he deflected it with an exhaled gust of wind.

“Not a bad start!” Arizona grinned, but her expression hardened as she deflected another wind-backed antler rush as Dasher tried to catch her off guard.

As Dasher slid back on the snowy ground, he took a breath to recover and charged again. Arizona braced herself to counter, but Dasher landed midway in the rush to jump over her, striking her in the back of the head with his hind hooves before alighting a safe distance away.

“Ugh!” Arizona winced at the kick. Predicting that she would not have time to turn and face him, she raised her hooves up to stomp.

Dasher readied another gale as he pivoted into position, seeing an opportunity in her back being turned to him.

BOOM

Arizona's heavy stomp hit the ground as Dasher jumped and pushed himself with wind, sending him far higher than he intended in an uncontrolled spin.

She tried to lasso him out of the air, but the extra speed from his wind foiled her timing; it also cost him when he splatted onto the snow-covered wall and slid down.

Arizona pushed off the ground for a dash of her own, but the time lost from the lasso attempt and Dasher's speed let him escape.

As he dashed away, Arizona noticed his horns had dimmed, and, from what she’d seen in previous fights, she understood that his magic had begun to wane.

So, she walked toward him slowly, ready to stomp at any moment.

Dasher gave ground while keeping his guard up.

He quickly saw that she was herding him into a corner, but he also noticed a snow drift left over from the last match.

Maybe…

“Come on, make a move!” Arizona’s voice would have sounded reassuring in a different context.

Dasher let his horns glow before it was necessary to signal his attack as he coiled to charge.

“That's more like it!” Arizona readied herself.

Dasher rocketed toward Arizona on a gale but dug his hooves in to slow down as soon as he was up to speed. The gale continued on and blew a cloud of snow at her.

Arizona closed her eyes and rammed forward with a headbuck, ready to catch and overpower Dasher’s hit.

But the clash never came, and, as she stumbled in recovery, Dasher launched her into the air with an antler strike as icy wind spiraled around them.

“Yes!” Velvet yelled from the stands. “Remember your height!”

Arizona flipped through the air as it carried her up, with hooves striking her from all angles until she faced the ground as the wind died down, and she felt hooves on her back.

Dasher called a downburst to make them fall faster and jumped off her back at the last moment.

SLAM!

Arizona hit ground hard face-first, but, in his effort to hit as hard as possible, Dasher missed his landing, fell, and tumbled away.

“Not zhat ender!” Velvet shouted from the stands.

Dasher scrambled to his hooves to face Arizona again, and his mouth fell open.

No way… She's still up?!

Arizona pulled herself to her hooves, battered but with more determination in her eyes than ever.

“Good one! Now it's a real scrap!”

“You’re even tougher than you look.” In a ploy to buy time for his magic to recover, Dasher approached carefully as Arizona did the same.

Arizona stopped short with a light stomp disguised as a step to catch Dasher off-guard, but he noticed it in time and closed the distance with a small dash where he was slightly airborne.

Dasher jabbed at Arizona’s stomping hoof but missed as she stepped back.

Arizona deflected another jab from his other forehoof with her other foreleg, then braced herself as Dasher spun for a double hindleg kick.

She managed to mitigate the damage with a block from both forelegs while she let herself slide back from the blow, but she didn't count on the airburst he summoned with his kick.

Arizona's guard faltered as her back hit the wall and loose snow fell on her face.

Blinded for a moment, she stood back on four legs and lowered her head to feign a low block.

Dasher flew toward her and landed to jump for another air attack as she crouched—

And was flung high in the air by a wide sweep from Arizona’s horns.

The crowd gasped as it appeared that Dasher would land on them, but a lasso caught his hindleg and yanked him back to the arena in an arc.

SLAM!

Dasher hit the ground hard on his back, wheezing with the wind knocked out of him.

As he tried to dislodge his antlers from the ground, Arizona’s hoof on his floof pushed him back down.

Dasher tapped out.

“And the winner is Arizona!” Stronghoof called as the crowd cheered after sighs of relief. “But it was gloriously close. Let's hear it for Dasher!”

Arizona helped Dasher pull his antlers loose as stomping applause echoed around them.

“How'd you know what I'd do? I thought you were blind.” Dasher stumbled to his hooves.

“I was. Tried to bait you into hitting high, but I had to guess.” Arizona moved to let him lean against her as they walked back. “Gotta act on instinct sometimes. That was a great fight though! I'd love to spar more later.”

“I'd love it as well!” Joy at the compliment briefly overpowered Dasher's headache.

Dancer ran up to hug Dasher as he returned.

“That was incredible! You were sooo close!”

“I'd say your match was closer,” Comet said. She got a blush from Dancer as she turned her head.

“Hush, you,” Arizona replied before turning back to them. “Ya both almost got me, You were great!”

“Indeed, zhey vere vonderful fights!” Velvet said. Dasher and Dancer both stepping back from her. “Don’t vorry, you have been great students.”

Velvet's gaze hardened as she turned to Arizona.

“I just hope you know what zis means. You better win ze finals!”

Arizona stared back as they both leaned in. “Ah won't make you look bad until our rematch, don’cha worry!”

“And now we take an intermission for our finalists to recover. I invite all participants to a celebratory lunch, and Shanty and Arizona to our finest hospitality to be at their best.”

Stronghoof smiled as he stepped down, joining Trudene to lead her out of the stadium.

“So, were you impressed?”

“Very,” Trudene said. “Dey have potential.”

“Good to hear,” Stronghoof said. “Now, are you ready for the meeting?”

“Of course, though dis has been a nice distraction,” Trudene said. “But are you sure de children are ready for dat?”

“They have to be.”

Shanty had never felt so overwhelmed with attention and good food, and she was loving it.

“Wasn't expecting a goat to handle cold that well.” Cupid took another delicate bite with an ice fork as Shanty chowed down.

“You'd be surprised by how cold rainy nights pon di deck can get.” Shanty swallowed. “But dat trick woulda come in handy in di isles.”

“Maybe I should visit sometime,” Cupid said.

“Don't forget your duties.” Blitzen cut in. “You are an Elite now, and the Tundra needs you.”

“O-of course.” Cupid startled. “I'm proud to be an Elite!”

“Don't worry, there are still breaks,” Blitzen said. “But I look forward to working with you.”

Elsewhere at the table, Paprika excitedly recapped the match in a voice some of the guests could not understand.

“...And then you flew over the crowd, then Woosh! That looked so fun! Can I try?”

Dasher and Arizona exchanged a look.

“Ah dunno, Pap,” Arizona said. “I think that'd hurt.”

“I'll say,” Dasher said. “Not sure which of us hurt more.”

“Ah, it's all about gettin’ back up.” Arizona nudged him with an elbow. “Bad luck with those antlers getting stuck.”

“At least you didn't get a lariat.” Dancer touched a hoof to her throat.

With the guests well-fed, Stronghoof cleared his throat.

“If I may have your attention, there is an urgent matter I wish to discuss. You are free to leave, but I'd appreciate the presence of the Elite concerning an important issue. And the champions and diplomats, if you would not mind.”

Murmurs filled the room, but no one got up from their seats.

“Excellent!” Stronghoof tapped the table and continued.

“As you must be aware, the predators have been growing as a threat: amassing in dark places and making the roads unsafe when there is no light. But I regret to inform you that the conflict has escalated further. A town has been attacked and its inhabitants forced to flee. Trudene, explain your plight to those here.“

Stronghoof nodded to her, and she spoke from her place beside him.

“I am Trudene, Champion of de Bushveld, an’ my home was attacked. De predators can amass in de desert, hiding under de sands in de day, but many in de Bushveld thought we were a safe distance from dem. But all it took to make my herd refugees was a rainstorm in de wrong place at de wrong time. Many brave Impalas gave deir lives so dat others could live, including my fat’er, de chief. I will do everyt’ing in my power to protect others from dat fate. So I have come to you for help.

"A whole town?!" Arizona said quietly, mostly to herself. She suddenly looked younger and more vulnerable at the news.

Even Paprika and Shanty seemed lost in thought. Velvet and Vixen’s faces hardened, while Dancer and Cupid’s ears fell.

But Prancer was outraged, and he was the first to speak up.

"Is there anything we can do to help?"

“You have our deepest sympathies.” Blitzen cut in. “But all regions are threatened by the predators, and we must ensure that the Tundra is secure.”

“We can't just wait here!” Comet cut in.

“Indeed.” Stronghoof nodded. “Not all regions are equally threatened.”

“The High Plains, ancestral home of the Alpake, is likely to be overrun with them, I fear,” Sofrito interjected. “Clouds often blot out the sky night and day, and dark caves are everywhere. Thus, I have been seeking refuge for my herd. Others may be in similar danger.”

“I have heard of that from our crew on our ship,” Donner said. “We could offer transportation, at least.”

“Indeed.” Prancer nodded.

Sofrito bowed. “I would greatly appreciate it, but I will need to convince them first.”

“That touches on the purpose of this meeting,” Stronghoof said. “I would like to send ambassadors to the other civilizations to foster cooperation in information and defense against these predators. And since the museum staff assures me that translation could still take weeks, it may be a good time for champions to strike out as well.”

“Ambassadors of Reine?” Blitzen pointed. “The other Jarls have not agreed to this, let alone the Council of Elders.”

“The Jarls think they can wait this out behind walls.” Stronghoof scoffed. “As if what goes on outside will not affect them. And the Council is indecisive; we need to act more nimbly outside of their structure and build bridges that can be made more official later.”

“We?” Blitzen said. “You are Jarl of Reine, but the Elite work for the Sprites, even if our headquarters is in Riene. We are under their orders.”

“Of course.” Stronghoof nodded. “You have no obligation to join me in this. But I have conferred with them. Vetr!”

Stronghoof tilted his head for Vetr to speak, and he translated his words for the non-reindeer.

“So long as they are confident that the Tundra is secure, particularly the Reindeer and us, the Winter Sprites see the wisdom in proactively intervening to stop the threat. The Sprites approve the plan for the Elite to serve as ambassadors and assist other lands, so long as they will return when called and perform their Midwinter duty.”

“Vell, zhat settles zhat,” Vixen said. “But are you sure that ze Tundra vill be safe without us?”

“I have made extensive preparations and increased the guard,” Stronghoof said. “The Tundra is secure. As Jarl and Warrior, I swear to keep it that way.”

“Very well.” Blitzen nodded. “So what is your plan, exactly?”

“As Vetr said, I would like to send as many of you as possible as ambassadors of Reine,” Stronghoof said. “Your mission would be to gather and share information on the predators, the Key, the Hold, and the movements of other champions as well as assist them in their struggles, as needed. The roads will be dangerous, so I would only trust the Elite to this task, whether you go in pairs or alone.”

“For my part,” Velvet cut in, “I vill be paying ze Order of ze Horn a visit and finding out vat zhey know.”

“Mi can come?” Shanty spoke up.

“Can you even read?” Velvet looked down on her.

“No, but mi can reason wid dem.” Shanty said. “Plus, mi never see dat place yet, an mi coulda keep yuh safe.”

Velvet scowled before looking up in shock as Stronghoof spoke.

“That could work. A little team building between champions, perhaps?”

Velvet glared at Stronghoof. “Ve can discuss zis later, but I von’t hold up ze meeting.”

Donner waved a hoof to Sofrito and Paprika. “If you wish to return to the High Plains, I would be happy to accompany you if I am not needed elsewhere. Perhaps I could help convince your tribe, and my ship is in the docks now to leave.”

“I can also come, if I’m not needed elsewhere,” Prancer said.

“I would greatly appreciate it,” Sofrito said. “Given what I have heard, I fear we are running out of time.”

“I'll go with you, then!” Paprika hugged Sofrito. “I’ll keep everyone safe and sound till they're on that pretty island!”

Paprika poked her head to Arizona. “You can come too!”

“I'd love to, Pap,” Arizona started, “but this talk has me worried about my own folks. Ah’d like to check on them, make sure everyone's okay.”.

“Oh. Okay…” Paprika frowned.

“Hey, promise we'll meet up later,” Arizona said. “Ah can tell you our usual route, just in case. And we'll need to grab the Key whenever we've got more to go on.”

“Okay, we'll meet up right after!” Paprika grinned.

“And you'll have me, at least.” Sofrito winced as Paprika's hug tightened.

“I, um…” Dasher hesitated as all eyes turned to him. “I would like to volunteer to be an ambassador to the prairie—if you'll have me.” He glanced from Stronghoof to Arizona. “Nomadic herds may know more about the predator’s movements and be more at risk.”

“Ya don't need my permission.” Arizona smiled. “Ah’d be happy to have ya, whatever good this ambassador thing could do.”

“C-can I have a moment with my brother in private?” Dancer forced herself to speak up, clearly wary of being the center of attention.

“Granted,” Stronghoof said. Clearly, he had already guessed the conversation. “We will wait for you.”

After Dasher and Dancer closed the door in an isolated room, her tone changed completely.

“Do you have any idea what you're signing up for? The prairie is hot and dry, and cattlekind pull heavy wagons through it all day without walls at night.”

“If Mom and Dad can do it, so can we,” Dasher objected, but he stepped back as she poked his floof.

“We've grown up pampered here; neither of us are used to that life at all. And even Mom and Dad didn't venture as far as the cattlekind do all the time. This would be hard and dangerous, and if it's about spending more time with your crush, she’d have to leave soon to get the Key.”

“It's not—I mean, that's a bit of it.” Dasher blushed. “But this isn't just about her. Remember how we talked about the roads getting less safe for people like Mom and Dad? I'd like to do something about that, and it'd bother me every day if I stayed.”

Dancer took a deep breath. “That's a better reason, but are you really willing to stick with this, whether or not she accepts you and after she has to leave?”

Dancer stared into Dasher's eyes as he answered.

“Yes. I’ve been thinking about this for a long time, and how well we did in the tournament proves that we're ready. But honestly, I probably needed the nudge from her.”

Dancer studied him silently for a moment.

“If you really believe that, then I am in as well. We may be needed in different places, and I'd prefer to stay where it's comfortable, but I also want to make a difference.”

“Thanks for understanding.” Dasher smiled as they hugged.

“I still think you're crazy, but your heart is in the right place.”

“We're in.” Dancer spoke softer and faster at the meeting. “Whether you need me in the prairie or elsewhere.”

“The prairie borders other regions, and ambassadors may have to travel between them.” Stronghoof scratched his chin. “Perhaps you can go together and make a judgment call there.”

“Glad to have ya then!” Arizona said.

The planning talks went on for hours, but with their destinations set, Arizona, Dasher, and Dancer left early.

Arizona couldn't help but notice their concern.

“Don'cha worry, my herd’ll treat ya like family! They're nice folks.”

“If they're anything like you, I'm sure they are.” Dasher gave a shy smile.

“Ah, shucks!” Arizona smiled. “I should be thankin’ you with all your hospitality. Still, ah am kind of homesick.”

“Is it hot there?” Dancer asked as diplomatically as possible.

“Afraid so,” Arizona answered. “But it gets cool at night. You can ride in a wagon, though. I can handle your weight easy.”

Dancer paused and blinked at the implication before she caught up.

“Thanks, I guess. Am I really that light?”

“By cattlekind standards, yeah.” Arizona said. “Ah’m still a lightweight calf myself.”

“You seem strong for your size, at least,” Dancer said, suddenly worried about other cows.

“Ha! Guess that's fair.” Arizona said. “Not a lot of other folks can spar with my Pa.”

“I look forward to meeting him,” Dasher said before stepping in front and turning to face her. He suddenly seemed unsure. “Look, before we go, I should let you know that I, well, I like you.”

Arizona tilted her head in a puzzled look before shrugging and smiling. “Well, ah like you too. Is that odd for reindeer to say, or somethin'?

Dasher blinked as Dancer's mouth hung open.

“Uh, not really,” Dasher said. “Just, well, nerves I guess.”

“Don’t worry, it'll be fun!” Arizona patted him on the shoulder. “Ah gotta do some warm-ups, but I'll talk with y'all later!”

Dancer whispered as soon as she was out of earshot.

“She's not the brightest girl you could pick.”

“She's just focused!” Dasher protested.

“And now it is time for the final match of our great Tournament of Champions! With glory, praise, and ten thousand salt on the line!”

The crowd cheered as Stronghoof raised his hoof.

“Let these matches assure you that Fœnum can stand united and strong against this darkness. And now, I have the great honor of calling Arizona, Champion of the Prairie, and Shanty, Champion of the Isles!”

Arizona bowed. “May the best Champ’een win!”

Shanty bowed. “Forget that! It's gonna be me!”

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM!

Arizona stomped a hoof as soon as the drum sounded, but Shanty casually hopped to avoid the shockwave.

“Gotta be faster dan dat!” Shanty said.

Arizona stared her down for a second before throwing her lasso at Shanty's head.

She dodged it with a sidestep as she leaned away and yawned.

Arizona dashed in with a jab, but Shanty stopped her yawn instantly to jump away. She turned into a run as she dodged a standing horn swipe.

She turned to wink at Arizona and checked her position, seeing her digging her hooves in.

Arizona lunged with a headbuck as Shanty jumped to and off the wall, flipped, and landed on Arizona's back.

“YAAR!” Shanty yelled in Arizona's ear and kicked off. Arizona flinched, which put her off-balance and let the move easily flip her onto her side.

Shanty tumbled in the air and came down with a powerful kick, but Arizona rolled away just in time.

Dust flew as Shanty's hindhoof struck the ground where her head was. Shanty stood as she alighted for a quick bipedal headbuck.

But Arizona tripped her with a sweep of her horns from the ground.

“Wahohoh!” Shanty yelled as she fell on Arizona's back as the cow stood up.

“Giddy up!” Arizona bounced Shanty on her back and off it in the perfect position for a hindhoof kick, sending her rolling to slam into the wall.

As she recovered, she noticed Arizona’s lasso tangled on her hoof, and she got an idea.

Shanty got to her feet quickly as Arizona kept her distance after turning to face her warily.

“Nice save!” Shanty said. “Mi did worry it'd be done too quick.”

“Had to get ya off mah back and in the corner,” Arizona said, hoof raised and ready to stomp.

In response, Shanty jumped to the wall and ran across it.

“Yuh forget mi a goat? Mi love di corner!”

Arizona stepped to the side with her eyes glued to her opponent.

Shanty jumped off the wall in a flip as Arizona grabbed and sent her rope in a flash, but it was untied; the end flapped uselessly near Shanty.

“Huh?!“ Arizona was cut off by Shanty’s hindhoof as it slammed down on her head.

Before she could recover, Shanty stunned her with a headbuck between her horns and sent her spinning onto the ground with a sweeping kick to the cheek.

Shanty broke into a run as Arizona turned over and braced herself. She laid down to block Shanty’s sliding trip attempt with her forelegs flat on the ground.

Shanty stood for another headbuck, but Arizona met it with her own and bulled her back with her head.

As Shanty stumbled back, Arizona raised a hoof to feint a stomp, which prompted Shanty to jump back in with a headbuck, but instead Arizona stepped forward and swiped Shanty with her horns, catching and flinging her through the air.

Arizona’s hooves pushed up a slab of rock before she hurtled toward Shanty. “Y’all in for a Beatin’!”

Shanty jumped as high as she could as soon as she landed, barely making it thanks to to time it took Arizona to turn. She’d already planned her next attack as Arizona passed under her.

Arizona jumped off the wall, then flew toward Shanty from behind with a double hindleg kick. “Plow through you!”

Arizona's hooves spiked Shanty into a hard landing, and she lay on the ground dazed as Arizona dashed across the stadium to pin her with a hoof on her chest.

Shanty tried to roll away, but she scowled as the hoof pressed harder to lock her in place. “Fiine, you win.”

“And the winner of our First Tournament of Champions is Arizona, Champion of the Prairie!’ Stronghoof's voice blasted at his highest volume, and cheers quickly matched it.

“You were great! That was close!” Arizona helped Shanty up. “Glad to have ya on our side.”

“Yeah, well, enjoy di salt.” Shanty grunted before she composing herself. “An’ good fight.”

“Arizona, approach!” Stronghoof called again, “It is time to say a few words as victor and receive your prize!”

“Uhh…” Arizona locked eyes with him before walking up, head lowered as she tried to think of something.

Stronghoof nodded to her with a smile as he stepped away to let her take the announcer stand by a huge salt chest. “I yield the floor to you.”

“Uh, that was a great hoedown! Love the stadium ya got here.” Arizona gulped as murmurs filled the stands. “But, ah really wanted to say that I'm glad Fœnum’s got so many great fighters defendin’ her. Your Elites are somethin’ else, and y’all have a great Champ’een. Ah'll do whatever I can to help keep everyone safe.”

Arizona smiled as they cheered again, and she stepped aside for Stronghoof.

“As shall I! And with that in mind, I would like to announce my new diplomatic plan for the safety and cooperation of all herds against this threat…”

“Congratulations!” Paprika squeezed Arizona outside the stadium. “I knew you could do it!”

“Thanks, Pap,” Arizona spoke through a limited ability to breathe as she hugged back.

“That was incredible!” Dasher walked up.

“A vorthy fight, I suppose.” Velvet strode up to her and narrowed her eyes. “But ve still have a rematch to do before you go.”

Arizona pulled away from Paprika to face her. “You’re on! First thing tomorrow!”

Velvet turned and smiled as she looked back. “You’ve done vell. I expect to see your best!”

After some meetings over his announcement, Stronghoof joined the contestants for the last feast of the tournament.

He grinned at Arizona and her friends as they celebrated. “We will keep your salt safe in our bank until you require it, if that suits you.”

“About that.” Arizona swallowed and composed herself. “I was thinkin’ that with the Alpake and the Impalas movin’ and such and y’all volunteering to help, ah’d like to do somethin’. I can’t be everywhere at once, but maybe some salt would help.”

Sofrito’s eyes widened. “You would do that for us?”

“It’s the least I could do.” Arizona glanced at Stronghoof. “Ah’ve never been great with figures, but do ya think splittin’ it half and half would make a dent?”

Shanty choked on her drink as Stronghoof answered.

“Five thousand salt would go a long way to securing supplies and transportation. But are you sure this is how you’d want to spend it?”

“You should keep some for yourself!” Trudene leaned forward. “If only to help your herd with deir needs; de world is not as safe as it once was.”

“Ah.” Arizona blinked. “I suppose you have a point. How about ah hold one of five parts, and the other rest gets split between them?”

“That would be very generous,” Sofrito said.

Dasher raised his voice. "I'll make that split as well with my winnings."

Cupid paused in thought for a moment before shrugging. "I'll split half of my winnings. I'd also like to do something."

All eyes turned to Shanty, though they seemed more curious than demanding.

"Eh, mi think 'bout it." Shanty frowned.

"It's your salt." Sofrito said. "We will have plenty to work with: no pressure in giving it up."

"You are already helping as Champion." Trudene seconded. Shanty's eyes flicked away for a split second.

Shanty watched them as they talked over the details, lost in thought.

She get ten thousand salt an she’s just… giving it away?! Nuh even to her own herd?

“Hey,” Cupid’s voice snapped her out of it, “great match out there. Could have gone either way.”

“Thanks,” Shanty said. “Second place nuh get half di salt, though.”

“Fair, but it does give prestige,” Cupid said. “Think about it, you placed higher than any of the reindeer in Reine—and you had to fight the Jarl.”

“Aye.” Shanty smiled. “Dat mek fi a good story, at least.”

“Choose one book,” Satin insisted. “The wisest travelers have the lightest packs!”

Dancer scowled as her parents made most of her packing decisions for her.

“I can keep more on the wagon,” Dancer protested. “Arizona even offered to pull me.”

“But you need to make a good impression!” Waltz looked up from instructing his sprite. “Can’t have you sitting in there all day. But I suppose a few books in a wagon wouldn’t hurt.”

“Thank you.” Dancer tapped three more books, which her sprite quickly stowed away.

“Have you heard any news from the Prairie?” Dasher asked.

“Nothing they wouldn’t know in Reine,” Waltz replied. “It’s been years since we’ve been there. It’s typically a place merchants pass through”

“Makes sense,” Dasher said. “Still, I’m looking forward to it.”

“It will be hot, dry, and sparsely populated,” Satin said. “Not sure what there is to look forward to.”

“Well… I’ll be with a friend.” Dasher paused. “And the difficulty’s part of the point. I know we’ve had it easy here in Reine, and I’d like to prove I can make it there.”

“I’m sure you will.” Satin pulled him into a hug.

Elsewhere in the HQ, Blitzen walked into Cupid’s room.

“Do you require assistance? How much travel— “

Cupid let out an ‘Eeek!’ as Blitzen spotted him packing a Blitzen plush, with a full collection of Elite plushies on display beside it.

Cupid’s ears fell back in an awkward silence before Blitzen spoke.

“...We’re traveling together. You don’t need him as well.”

Prancer deflected another knife with his ice sword as Trudene leapt over him, but he tripped as she landed and swept his legs.

“You fight well.” She helped him up. “But we need more dan one extra warrior.”

Prancer shook the back leg she hit. “If we can get nations talking together, that could lead to something more.”

“Maybe.” Trudene picked up a knife with her mouth and slid it back into its foreleg pouch.

“But if that fails, I’ll still be there to help you.” Prancer said.

“Me?” Trudene looked up after she’d stowed the second knife.

“The only way to stop the predators is to find the Key, and as Champion, that is your duty. If I can do anything to make that job safer or faster, I'm happy to just be a bodyguard.”

“More like a sidekick.” Trudene gave a smirk that fell quickly. “But I don't even know where to look, and I'd rather not see anyone risk demselves for me.”

“It is my duty to protect Fœnum; if there is anything I can do to end this threat sooner, I will do it,” Prancer insisted. “It is shameful for a warrior to wait safely behind walls as others suffer.”

Trudene's smile returned. “I can respect dat. Fine, if I need a sidekick, I'll let you know.”

Arizona relaxed in the hot springs with the alpacas. She resigned herself to being hugged by Paprika the whole time. “Sorry we didn't get through everything on your list.”

“Don't worry about that, I had a great time!” Paprika tightened the hug as Arizona flinched. “Met new friends, got to watch you in a tournament, and we went skating! We should do this again sometime!”

“Sure, Pap,” Arizona said. “But we've got other stuff to do, first.”

“Right, right.” Paprika nodded. “I'm going to take my tribe on an adventure!”

Arizona blinked. “Well, that's one way to think about it.”

“I doubt they will see it that way,” Sofrito said. “But we may be running out of time.”

“Ah get not wanting to leave your home, but stayin’ ain't an option,” Arizona said. “Ah’m sure you'll convince ‘em.”

“I wish I had your confidence.” Sofrito frowned. “Ack!”

Paprika yoinked him into the hug. “Ah, you'll do fine. And I'll be right there with you!”

That night, Shanty snuck out of the lodge.

She passively cased the bank under the cover of snow on a rooftop, noting the guard patrols, the lighting, and windows for entry: but her planning was overshadowed by other thoughts.

Who just gi salt way like dat?! Dat cow mad. If mi did win, mi woulda…

Her thoughts grew conflicted as she remembered Trudene's story.

…mi woulda gi dem a likkle, maybe. Mi could just tek a likkle fi miself now. Who would even notice?

Shanty stared at the bank as moments passed by.

Betta nuh risk it. Plus, mi a go win it proper next time!

With that, she shook off the snow and leapt from roof to roof as she made her way back to the lodge.

"Eh, mi need fi talk wid yuh."

"Go on." Stronghoof replied.

"Mi want yuh fi split 1000 a mi salt fi di donation." Shanty's tone was oddly uncertain as she pointed a hoof. "But nuh tell dem! Nuh want dem fi think mi get soft and mi a go gi dem all a mi salt."

Stronghoof smiled. "My lips are sealed. If you would like cover for it, I could say it's a little extra donation from me."

"Aye, dat sound good." Shanty glanced to the floor, wanting a change in topic. "So, yuh have any more a dat shaved ice?"

"I will have it brought out to you." Stronghoof said.

"How about banana and mango dis time." Shanty called back as she abruptly cantered off to join the others at the fire.

Stronghoof watched her leave as Vetr spoke in words she could not understand.

"Maybe she can be a champion after all."

Stronghoof nodded. "Could use more manners, but I see the potential in her."

The next morning, deer filtered into the stadium for an unofficial match as Velvet and Arizona strode in to face each other.

“I underestimated you before, but now you have my full attention.” Velvet’s horns glowed as her eyes narrowed. “Show me zhat you are a rival vorth ze effort!”

“Ah just won the tournament, ya know.” Arizona squinted. One of her forehooves scraped the ground. “But ah promise to give this my all!”

“On my mark!” Stronghoof called, back in the announcer seat.

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

BOOM!

Arizona stomped the ground hard with both hooves, expecting Velvet to step away like she had in their match before.

Instead, she jumped back into the air and formed an icicle.

Recalling that her icicles had vanished when she was struck, Arizona dashed in for a quick hoof strike, but she was surprised by Velvet shifting to the side to dodge it instead of trying to block with ice.

Smack!

Velvet's forehoof slapped Arizona's face twice with more force than she remembered, which bought time for the icicle to slam down and shatter against her, followed by a double hindhoof kick that knocked her on her back.

“Spike!”

Arizona looked up to see a massive shard of ice crashing to the ground, and felt pieces of it scatter on her back as she rolled away.

Arizona had to duck an icicle flying across the stadium as she tried to stand, with Velvet a comfortable distance away.

“Good stuff—didn't think ya could hit that hard!” Arizona called to her.

“Zhank you, I've been training for zhis.” Velvet formed another icicle. “Now less talking. Ve fight!”

Arizona parried the icicle with a horn swipe, breaking it into mist as she stepped forward.

She then charged forward and braced herself for a snowflake striking her head, wincing but not slowing down at the impact.

Blinking as the pain almost blinded her from spikes jutting from the ground, she jumped forward as far as she could.

Velvet smirked as she formed another spike patch behind her, spun, and summoned wind to stall and reverse Arizona's momentum as it carried her up and away through the air.

Arizona pulled her lasso out and started to spin it through the air to get the speed she needed.

Velvet noted it flying forward as she pulled out of her spin, confident that it would fall short after she had secretly measured it in the night. Instead of dodging she focused on guiding Arizona to the spikes with her wind.

But she failed to notice that Arizona had tied two ropes together.

“Gotcha—Waaa!”

Both fighters yelped in shock as Velvet was flung through the air by the rope and Arizona noticed the spikes she was rapidly approaching.

Velvet did her best to stabilize her fall with wind, but she still ended up face planting on the ground, rolling over on her antlers and stopping belly up on the ground.

As she recovered from her dizziness Velvet called a fog of snow around her, hoping Arizona's recovery would also be slow as she pulled herself up.

The force of Arizona's rope pull sent her into a tumble in the air toward the patch of spikes.

Arizona missed them by several meters due to Velvet's wind being cut short, but it didn't matter as she hit the ground in an uncontrollable roll until the spikes shattered on her back.

“YEOWCH!”

Arizona curled up at the pain, but she forced herself to her hooves as soon as it receded.

When she got up, she was greeted by white all around her, hiding the stadium walls and the ground beneath her hooves.

Arizona spun around as she looked for her opponent until she spotted an antlered silhouette.

Arizona launched herself toward it from a slab of rock pulled up by her hind hooves, shattered the ice statue into pieces.

“TORNADO!”

A white swirl of wind flew over Arizona’s side, pulling her into its path across the stadium as the snow flew into the vortex.

“CHILL OUT!”

All of the cold from the wind and fog poured into Arizona, leaving her shivering and white with a coat of snow.

With Arizona slowed down, Velvet’s barrage of icicles seemed to accelerate faster than ever.

One deflected off a hoof, which forced her foreleg away as she caught another on her forehead, while another grazed her side, while another burst directly on her chest as she barely shuffled away from spikes rising beneath her.

Arizona's stamina was failing and her rope was far out of reach, but the rush of desperation warmed her body enough for her to move properly.

Spotting the head of the deer statue nearby against the wall, she dashed towards it: dodging past one icicle and ducking under another as she swiped her horns.

Velvet tilted her head to summon spikes under Arizona, seeing that she would not be able to avoid them laying flat on her chest, but she didn't register the ice head flying at her.

Crash!

Velvet raised her hooves to her head too late to block, and she was knocked clean off her hooves by the force of the impact.

Arizona wasted no time in rushing her with a headbuck horn swipe, but Velvet landed and slid just out of reach on skates she summoned on her hind hooves on ice she formed behind her on the ground.

Velvet’s skating momentum began to outpace Arizona’s run as she formed new icicles to launch.

Realizing this, Arizona drew on her last reserves of energy to push off the ground in another charge: smashing through a flying icicle and slamming her head into Velvet, which sent her flying.

Velvet rolled and skidded to a halt in a hard landing near the wall with Arizona running to catch up.

She resummoned her skates to slide back on a sheet of ice again, then stopped after a few short meters with her back to the wall.

Arizona raised a hoof to stomp. “You’re outta— Wah!”

Velvet spun once to summon a gale that blew toward her, and the lack of friction on the ice combined with Arizona only having three hooves on the ground caused Arizona to stumble as she slid forward.

Arizona managed to keep herself upright, only to be stopped by Velvet’s hoof on her muzzle as ice encased her hooves and cold seeped back into her body.

“Did you slip?” Velvet released the ice as Arizona jerked to break free of it, which caused her to fall by her own momentum.

As the cow scrambled up, Velvet took a deep breath. She hoped Arizona would stay still or try to dash in at the short distance.

“Now I’ve—” Arizona dashed forward with a hoof strike as quickly as she could through the cold.

Velvet breathed out a cloud of frost and forced herself to not flinch as Arizona’s hoof closed in on her muzzle.

“Gottcchhhyaaa!”

White snow filled the air, and Stronghoof could only make out the silhouette of a cow standing and a deer on the ground.

“And the winner is…” Stronghoof narrowed his eyes.

The snow cleared to show Velvet as she panted, out of breath and exposed.

But Arizona stood in place, motionless, with a confident smile frozen to her face and her hoof still outstretched.

Velvet pulled herself up halfway before she saw her opponent and slunk back down for a few more breaths.

“The winner is Velvet!” Stronghoof shouted at full volume despite the mostly empty stands.

Velvet finally stood. She smiled and walked up to her frozen opponent.

“Now zhis deserves a trophy!” Velvet waved at her sprites as she formed a cow statue, watching them carve the finer details into an exact likeness of Arizona’s pose.

“Perfect!” Velvet smirked and tipped the cow over with a flick of her hoof to the side of her muzzle. “Checkmate!”

“You both fought well,” Trudene said. “Seeing what you are capable of gives me hope for de future.”

Arizona shivered in front of the lodge fire as Paprika covered her with another blanket.

“Th-thanks, that was a good scrap.” Arizona glanced at Velvet as she tapped her shoulder with a hoof.

“Don’t be ashamed—you vere beaten by ze best!” Velvet chuckled at a groan from Arizona before continuing in a more genuine tone. “Zhat rope trick vas clever; you almost had me zhere. Just remember that we’re even now: I expect you to be stronger when ve meet again!”

“You’re on!” Arizona locked eyes with her. “You better train hard to keep up!”

“Of course, rival.”

Arizona and Velvet stared each other down with determined eyes, but everyone saw that they were both smiling beneath it.

Paprika held Arizona in her longest hug yet at the port.

“I’ll visit as soon as I can. Or you can visit me! Maybe we’ll meet back in Reine!”

“We’ve got a lot to do, but ah look forward to it.” Arizona pulled her tighter, not caring about the glances from nearby deer as minutes passed.

“...I’ll miss you.” Paprika frowned as she let her go.

“Ah’ll miss ya too. But we’ll meet up again. Ah promise.”

Author's Note

The end of the story's time in Reine, for now at least.

It may be overambitious to branch things out like this, but there are stories to be told in different parts of Foenum.

Someone Had Tae Do It's branch has a long way to go to catch up in the timeline, though.

I hope you've been enjoying the story so far, and as always I welcome any feedback.

Trudene is one of NotSoDogNinja's OCs, and I am using her with his permission.

Her tragic background of a predator attack seemed fitting to add urgency for the motivations of the characters and the pacing of the story.

I have no desire to be needlessly dark or edgy, but I want the predators to feel dangerous.

Trudene using metal as the Impala Champion of the Bushveld has some basis in the Bushveld Igneous Complex, which is rich with metals including Titanium and Vanadium, which can be used to make a lightweight steel.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bushveld_Igneous_Complex

I see that level of metal use as a fairly distinct feature of her herd, with her using strapped on metal horns to fight more like a male impala and the throwing knives as limited projectiles.

As a general rule conventional weapons feel out of place in Fœnum to me, and weapons of any kind are rare, but I think they can be interesting when they feel like a distinct part of the character and their culture.