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Chapter Text

"General Bles! If you can hear me please respond." Johann calls out as he and the others, that managed to escape from the Gallians, clamber through the wreckage of what was once a massive fortress in search of the woman that holds their loyalty much more than even than their prince. Ernst and Wolfgang, being the only two with foresight to grab weapons, keep watch for any Gallian forces that may remain and are performing the same task as they are.

"How are you so sure that she was even still in the citadel when it blew, Johann?" Sy asks his eyes darting around for any sign of movement.

"I overheard one of the Gallian shocktroopers commenting that a General Damon had arrived to personally transport the General." Johann answers as he continues looking for the woman that he cares deeply for.

"Wasn't Damon the guy who used that gas on the General back when the Gallian army first tried to retake Ghilandaio?" Kurt asks as he keeps an eye out behind the group.

"I believe so, remember that day Johann? You really stepped up that day. I'm still surprised that the General didn't give you a kiss to go along with the medal you got." Otto teases his friend trying to keep the group's spirits up.

"If she doesn't kiss you once we find her, I'm going to start to think that she isn't into men." Ernst teases habitually checking to make sure the rifle he recovered is ready to go in case of an ambush. He may only have the five rounds currently in the rifle but for the people beside him as well as the General, he will make those shots count.

"Watch your mouth! Besides General Bles clearly is interested in men, we've all seen how she looks at the Prince." Johann scolds the scout unable to hide the bitterness in his tone. The overheard conversation from before the battle ringing his ears as Selvaria's sobbing form flashed in front his eyes.

"Yeah but it isn't the Prince who got us to risk recapture to find the General. It was you, Johann and she'll see that." Otto assures him as the group continues to search the rubble of the once intimidating fortress.

"You've been quieter than usual Elvin. You okay?" Wolfgang asks the Lancer, who while usually stoic hadn't contributed to the conversation since the group started the search which was unlike him.

"That Darcsen woman from the group that captured the General got a really good strike into my jaw. It's rather tender." He explains.

"I recognized that group from when I was serving in Fouzen. The woman that took you down fought alongside the Gallian Valkyria in the battle where General Gregor died." Johann remarks as he remembers the look of complete disgust on Selvaria's face when she mentioned the massacre of Darcsen prisoners committed by the remnants of Gregor's force that day and her relieved look when he swore that he took no part in any of the abuse of POWs during his brief assignment there.

"Maybe the Gallian Valkyria isn't so bad after all. I mean she liberated Fouzen from General Gregor's abuse and I read a report that it was her and her unit that took out Fujmolt and his Darcsen hunting unit." Sy states. Johann turns to glare at the Sniper.

"Watch it, Sy! The Gallian Valkyria is the reason General Bles is in this mess. After what happened at the Naggiar Plains the Prince ordered her to unleash something called the Final Flame of the Valkyrur. I don't know what it is but I know that it is supposed to involve her death and is apparently the only thing a Valkyria that can't secure victory is good for. This was said after General Bles plead for a another and declared her love for the Prince. Even General Jaeger thought Maximilian was going too far." Johann tells them angrily. He remembers shaking with a fury, that he didn't even know he could feel, as he watched the Prince depart from the room Selvaria was quietly sobbing from.

"The more I see and hear of how the Prince treats General Bles the more he sounds like an abusive boyfriend and a terrible military strategist if truly he expected the General to just carve the way to Randgriz unopposed. Gallia was a cornered dog. it was only a matter of time before they showed their teeth." Wolfgang scoffs.

"yeah, yeah we'll put a bullet in his head later. Let's find the General." Sy says before spotting a dented but still salvageable supply crate.

"Hey Kurt give me a hand with this." He requests as uses what was probably a piece from a tank to pry the lid off the crate. He and the scout shift through the insides not able to resist smiling at the veritable treasure trove.

"What have we got?" Johann asks as he and the others approach Kurt and Sy, only for Kurt to let out a cheer as he pulls out a sheathed knife which he puts in his boot.

"Got a pistol with two reloads for you, Johann. Ammo for Ernst's Kar and Wolfgang's MP. And nearly two dozen MREs." Sy lists off handing the sidearm to Johann who holsters it before helping to divide up the MREs. Otto let's out a laugh.

"If that crate had the General hiding in it, we'd have everything we need." He remarks before Elvin taps him on the shoulder. Turning the group sees that Elvin is staring at a nearby pile of rubble that a faint, yet familiar, glow can be seen coming from underneath. Johann rushes over and starts moving the rubble, praying that it's the General and not a damaged ragnite engine.

"General Bles! If you can hear me, just hold on we are digging you out." Johann calls out as Sy, Otto, Elvin, and Kurt help shift the rubble. Ernst and Wolfgang keeping watch. As Otto and Elvin toss aside a chunk of concrete the soldiers see their General laying underneath bruisings and scrapes cover the parts of her not obscured by her tattered uniform. Johann quickly removes his his armored chest piece and gauntlets so he can use his shirt to preserve his General's modesty. After ensuring that no one can get an eye of her, Johann performs a cursory check for injuries. The bruises all over the General look like they have been there for at least four days and two of her fingers become unbroken before his eyes. Her cuts are already starting to heal.

'Got to love that healing ability.' Johann thinks

"Damn, Johann you've been working out." Otto remarks as his friend picks up the General, Bridal style. Elvin gathers up Johann's armor in case he needs it later.

"Where to now?" Wolfgang asks.

"There's a cabin about two miles away from here. I found it while patrolling. It should give the General time to heal." Johann states leading the way out of the rubble, Wolfgang next to him and Ernst behind everyone else. The group travels in silence not wanting to draw the attention of any nearby Gallian Forces, so it catches them off guard when the General starts to whimper as the traverse through a wooded area.

"Lord Maximilian.. please no, don't...please." Selvaria whimpers causing Johann to scowl before he holds the woman closer to him.

"It's okay Selvaria. I am here, he can't hurt you anymore." He soothes her causing her whimpers to quiet.

"Hmm...Johann." she coos happily before seeming to go back to sleep as she cuddles into him. Johann looks over at his sniper friend.

"Sy, we are putting more than one bullet into the prince." He states to which the entire group nods in agreement.

"Copy, that Lieutenant." Sy replies.

"So, how are we going to be able to get close to the Prince, Johann? We all know what he does to those that are no longer useful to him." Otto asks raising the concern all of them have.

"Defection to the Gallian forces. Unless the General is done with war, then I'll accompany her as she leaves the continent." He replies suspecting that the explosion the the General caused would have taken out enough of the Gallian forces.

"Perhaps, if the General agrees to defect with us, we can be assigned to Gallian Valkyria's unit if the General offers to train." Sy theories to which Kurt scoffs.

"you just want the chance to meet that redheaded shock trooper." the scout remarks drawing a scowl from the sniper.

"You are one to talk! What with your infatuation with the blonde scout from the same unit." Sy retorts as they exit the woods to see a cabin up on a hilltop before them.

They quickly get to and enter the cabin, most relaxing as Otto starts a fire in the fireplace. Johann gently sets the General down on the only bed in the single room cabin while he can hear the others getting comfortable as he sets a chair down next to the General's bedside.

"What's the plan, now? Otto asks after the fire starts.

"Avoid the Gallian until the General wakes up, then we figure out just who is defecting and who's leaving the continent." Johann states as Ernst takes up a position by a window as first watch while the rest get comfortable.

'I swear General, no matter what happens I will protect you' Johann vows gently caressing her cheek before getting comfortable in the chair and closing his eyes; falling asleep as he awaits his General's reawakening. As Johann nods off, he unfortunately Selvaria's content smile as she subconsciously acknowledges her lieutenants affection.

Chapter Text

Ernst wakes up with a groan, sitting up he sees that he and Sy are the only ones awake currently. The Sniper nods at the Scout before returning to his watch out the window.

"Anything out of the ordinary?" Ernst asks as he goes over to the MREs and grabs one.

"Other than a rabbit and the General's occasional mutterings, I haven't seen or heard anything. With luck Maximillian assumed we died in the blast. But, where do we go from here? The Federation and The Empire will likely kill us for being Imperial or for not dying for His Grace. That's not to mention what they'd likely do with the General. And it is not like we have the resources to flee the continent." Sy points out as Ernst leans against the wall next to him eating.

"So, Johann's plan is our only real option?" Ernst remarks not sounding too bothered by their lack of options. Sy just nods his head.

"JOHANN!" Selvaria suddenly screams sitting up in the bed causing the aforementioned Scout to fall off the chair he was sleeping in and bang his helmeted head on a side table. Ernst runs over to the terrified woman who seems to be on the verge of hyperventilating.

"Ma'am. Johann is alright, please calm yourself." The scout assures her. Selvaria takes a couple deep breathes before clutching her head.

"Ernst? What happened? Where’s Johann?” The general asks looking at the scout. Ernst glances over at Johann, who has removed his helmet and is nursing a bruise. The others, having been awoken by the scream, all stand up and watch concerned.

"I'm here General." Johann says standing up so she can see him while rubbing the bruise forming on his head. Selvaria glances around the cabin and she sees everyone looking at her in concern.

"It really wasn't a dream, you all came back for me. Thank you." She tells them. Wolfgang chuckles as the others start going through their morning routine. Most getting breakfast while Kurt gets the fire going again to brew the tea he found earlier when he was on watch.

"Ma'am if you're thanking anyone you should thank Johann. He's the one who got us to risk recapture to ensure your wellbeing." Wolfgang informs her. Selvaria glances at the Lieutenant who's face is red and he's avoiding looking at her. She smiles faintly at his embarrassment, happy that he cares so much about her; though also annoyed that she was so blinded by her feelings for Maximillian that she didn't realize how much Johann truly meant to her until now.

"You are a better man to me, than I deserve Johann Oswald Eisen." Selvaria states looking at him. Johann's face reddens even more at this.

"Respectfully, General that is completely wrong." Johann argues crossing his arms causing Selvaria to realize he just has his sleeveless undershirt on above the waist. Her eyes trace his toned torso and arms before she realizes what she's doing and looks down at her lap. Doing so she notices that she is wearing his uniform shirt.

"Johann, why am I wearing your shirt?" She asks.

"Your uniform had been damaged in the blast and I thought that you would appreciate not being half naked." Johann explains causing the two to blush as they both think of Selvaria's state of undress. Thankfully, Otto steps forward to hand them both MREs which breaks the awkward air around them.

"Here you two go." Otto remarks handing the pair food. Johann and Selvaria take the meals and smile at Otto.

"Thank you Otto." Selvaria replies to the shocktrooper who just nods.

"No thanks necessary, General." He replies. Selvaria frowns at this not liking the title anymore feeling that the pedestal it places her on keeps her from the soldiers around her that didn't hesitate to go back for her.

"All of you please, It's just Selvaria. You all have earned the right to call me by my name. Besides I don't think any of us plan on returning to the Imperial military." Selvaria remarks glancing at Elvin and Wolfgang knowing that they have family in Imperial town of Loweholm. She silently promises to find a way to get them out of there. Crymaria as well, if she can be properly convinced to flee the Empire. Johann glances at those in the cabin with them.

"We'll follow you wherever you choose to go ma'am or at least I will." Johann vows. Selvaria narrows her eyes at how he addressed her but suspects that's probably the best she's getting out him for now. Otto elbows his friend.

"You're not ditching me that easily Johann. We're with you, both of you." Otto states causing the others to voice their agreement.

"That raises the question of where we go from here?" Selvaria remarks.

"Well personally, I have some unfinished business with Maximillian." Johann states anger burning in his chocolate eyes. The others nod in agreement. At first, Selvaria is confused why they have such anger towards him before she remembers that it was Johann who found her after Maximilian left the room upon ordering her to unleash the final flame.

"If we are going after Jaeger and Maximilian, we need supplies and weapons. The only reasonable source of such supplies would be the Gallian forces. We'll have to defect. Considering just how many Gallian soldiers were around Ghilandio when I unleashed the final flame they should been needing reinforcements. You all should be allowed to fight because of that, though I expect I'll be executed for what I've done." Selvaria states.

"No! I won't let them!" Johann practically roars. Selvaria takes his hand to offer him some comfort.

"General, what if you offer to help the Gallian Valkyrur hone her skills?" Ernst suggests.

"That could work. She didn't use her powers during our battle atop Ghilandio. I had assumed that was because I wasn't using them but she could still be struggling in harnessing them." Selvaria speculates.

"Well you may be able to ask her soon, her unit is heading down the dirt road at the bottom of the hill." Sy announces having kept watch out of the window. The Imperials all freeze as they wait to see what the Gallians will do.

Outside, Squad 7 are marching to get back to the capital, the explosion at Ghilandio damping their spirts. Alicia is becoming more concerned about her recently discovered powers in light of what Selvaria did and Welkin is growing more concerned for her. The rest of the squad are just concerned about them. Irene Ellet is quietly writing out the story of the last battle from her perch on the Edelweiss when Aika lets out a sneeze. Groaning she rubs her nose with a finger.

"You good, Aika?" Vyse asks walking next to her.

"It's just this darn pollen." Aika gripes.

"I know it's the worst. Here try this with some water it helps me." Jann offers from behind them reaching over Aika's shoulder to hand her a small pill. Aika swallows it with a swig from Vyse's canteen.

"Thanks Jann." Aika says to the Lancer.

"no problem hon. Thanks for saving from that sniper in the last battle." He replies.

"Squad 7, hold postion!" Welkin calls from his position aboard the Edelweiss. Everyone stops, the scout and shocktroopers amongst them raising their weapons as they look for any sign of the enemy.

"What's up boss man?" Largo asks from where he was standing next to the tank.

"That cabin has smoke coming out of the chimney. No one should be out here." Welkin states pointing towards the cabin on the nearby hill. Alicia looks up at him.

"want me to go check it out?" She asks to which Welkin nods.

"Juno, Rosie, Lynn go with her." Welkin orders. the four women head up the hill Alicia in the lead.

"Lynn you kick in the door and then cover right, Rosie follow Lynn and then cover left, Juno and I will cover the center. Don't fire unless I give the order." Alicia orders as they near the cabin spotting someone ducking down from peaking at the window.

Lynn charges forward and boots the door open following it in taking aim at several unarmed Imperial soldiers who quickly raises their hands. Rosie comes face to face with an Imperial sniper who raises his hands in surrender while slowly leaning to the left so Rosie can see the Kar leaning against the wall behind him, silently indicating to Rosie he has no desire to fight her. Juno and Alicia enter behind her and the squad 7 members notice as the imperials tense at the sight of Alicia. Juno and Alicia aim towards the bed at the back of the cabin, sitting next to it is a half-dressed Imperial with short blonde hair and brown eyes. Sitting in the bed, is a woman that Alicia had assumed dead.

"You survived?" Alicia asks the other Valkyrur taking a step closer to her. As she does, Johann sees her eyes flash red and her hair starting to go silver. He stands and draws the pistol Sy gave him in one smooth motion.

"I won't let you hurt her again." Johann swears aiming at Alicia.

Chapter Text

"Drop the gun!" Juno orders the Imperial aiming at Alicia. But he doesn't, Juno isn't fully certain that he knows anyone is there besides himself and the two Valkyrias.

"Easy Juno." Alicia states. She can tell that the man in front of her knows that pistol can't really harm her but he is determined to protect the woman behind him, even if it costs him his life. Alicia is sure that it's the same look that appears in her eyes when a Imperial tank fires on the Edelweiss. Wanting to protect a loved one against something you can't logically face.

"Damn it Johann! Drop the gun! Don't be stupid!" one of the shocktroopers shouts.

"If he doesn't lower the gun in three seconds, I'm dropping him." Juno warns. Though she dislikes that Welkin likes Alicia more, she would never forgive herself if she caused Welkin anymore stress by allowing Alicia to get hurt on her watch. Alicia was also a good friend and a trusted comrade. Juno's eyes widen as the Imperial Valkyria stands up from the bed. She preps herself to grab Alicia and dive out of the building, hopefully with Lynn and Rosie following when the silver haired woman puts her hand on Johann's gun and pushes it down.

"Peace Johann." She orders. Johann looks at her in confusion before glancing back Alicia.

"But ma'am..." He starts to say before trailing off.

"I don't think she intends to harm me unprovoked. Besides seeing you gunned down would hurt me more than anything they could do to me." She states. Rosie glances at them thinking that they reminded her of Welkin and Alicia as she turns back to the sniper she sees he's rolling his eyes at the behavior of his two comrades. She subtly signals for him to lean close.

"Are they always like this?" She quietly asks.

"You have no idea." The Sniper replies causing Rosie to smirk. It's at this point that Johann seems to make a decision. he ejects the clip from the pistol before clearing the chamber and tossing the pistol into the far corner of the room.

"I'll follow your lead ma'am." Johann states putting his hands on top of his head. the Valkyria looks at Alicia.

"I don't believe we ever introduced ourselves to each other. I'm Selvaria Bles. This is my protector Lieutenant Johann Oswald Eisen." Selvaria tells them.

"Well I can tell he clearly takes his role seriously." Alicia says approaching the the duo. Johann stands taller at this

"Thank you ma'am." Johann replies proudly. Alicia offers her hand to Selvaria.

"I'm Alicia Melchiott." Alicia states as Selvaria shakes her hand.

"My sister in blood, my forces and I would like to declare our intention to defect. We are at your mercy." Selvaria states looking Alicia dead in the eye.

"Juno, go get Lieutenant Gunther." Alicia orders the blonde woman who nods before leaving the cabin.

"I'm surprised that you are willing to defect, we were under the impression that the entire invasion force was loyal to the Prince." Alicia remarks.

"Respectfully ma'am, my loyal is to my comrades in this cabin and General Bles." Johann states.

"Most of us are only in the military because it was expected of us." One of the scouts mentions.

"Or we had no other options." The sniper adds. Alicia is about to question this when Welkin, and Juno enter the cabin.

"What's the situation Alicia?" Welkin asks. From his position Sy is able to see Alicia's soften upon seeing the man.

"Oh, you have the exact idea. I stand corrected." He says to Rosie who lets out a snort of amusement.

"This group of Imperial soldiers wish to defect to Gallia." Alicia explains to Welkin who strokes his chin as he considers the situation. He wants to accept immediately because the Imperial Valkyria could help Alicia come to terms with her recently discovered heritage but what about the soldiers?

"You can't honestly be considering accepting this Lieutenant! Remember what the Empire did to my people to Fouzen?" Lynn asks angrily.

"Or what happened to Isara!" Rosie adds. Welkin shoots Rosie a quelling look not liking her using the death of his sister to argue her point. The Imperial sniper awkwardly clears his throat.

"Um... Isara wouldn't happen to have been a young girl of Darcsen descent who was killed after the Gallian victory at Marberry Shore, would she?" The members of squad 7 turn to look at him.

"Were you one of the bastards who gunned her down!" Rosie growls violent grabbing his collar.

"No, I, along with Wolfgang and Elvin, were the ones who beat the crap of the 'men' who were laughing at killing her." he responds. Rosie let's him go.

"What?" she asks shocked.

"That's why you three jumped them, Sy? You told me it was a personal issue." Johann remarks.

"Yeah, we personally took issue with them laughing at the murder of young girl." Sy replies to which Rosie laughs. Welkin looks at the other imperial soldiers in the cabin.

"Which of you are Wolfgang and Elvin?" He asks. The Lancer and one of the shocktroopers raise their hands.

"Elvin Eugen." The Lancer states.

"Wolfgang Luk." The Shocktrooper adds.

"Thank you three for doing that. Isara was my little sister so her death hit us all pretty hard." Welkin explains to which the three Imperials nod.

"Okay they didn't have anything to do with Isara but what about what happened to my people in Fouzen?" Lynn argues.

"I was the only Imperial here that was stationed in Fouzen. General Gregor actually scolded numerous times for stopping the mistreatment of the Darcsen POWs." Johann tells them.

"You'll excuse me if I feel the urge to collaborate that with one of the survivors." Lynn states with narrowed eyes.

"Feel free." Johann replies understanding that his former comrades have done little to give the Gallians reason to trust him and his friends. Alicia turns to look at him with a confused look.

"Wait if you are Selvaria's protector why were you serving in Fouzen? She was never stationed there." Alicia points out. Johann shrugs not having understood his brief reassignment himself.

"Um.. I can actually answer that ma'am." The other shocktrooper tells her.

"Go ahead umm." Alicia says not knowing his name.

"Otto, ma'am. Otto Loks. Shortly before Johann was transferred to Fouzen, I overheard Maximillian talking with Generals Jaeger and Gregor. He didn't like how fond Selvaria seemed to be of Johann and so asked Gregor to take command of Johann and well...." Otto trails off not sure if he needs to fully repeat what Maximillian had ordered Gregor to do.

"He ordered I be dealt with didn't he?" Johann asks to which Otto nods.

"Best I can figured it was luck that you survived the battle of Fouzen bud." Otto remarks as Selvaria moves closer to Johann as if to asure himself that he's still there.

Before anything else can be said, the sound of gunfire can be heard outside.

'Contact! Contact!" The squad 7 members hear Vyse call out.

Chapter Text

The majority of Squad 7 are standing around as they wait for their comrades to return. Irene is sitting on top of the Edelweiss with Largo standing nearby smoking a cigarette nearby.

"What do you suppose is happening in there?" The reporter asks glancing towards the cabin.

"Not a clue. I'm sure the Bossman will explain when he and the others return." Largo replies letting out a puff of smoke. He glances at the rest of his squad just making sure everything is alright. Jann smiles at him as he notices his look which Largo returns. He notices a rare smile on Marina's as she interacts with Hans. The young Porcavian suddenly jumps as he turns to the examine the nearby woods.

"Oink?" Hans says sniffing around the trees before jumping into air slightly in surprise. He spins around to the rest of his Squad.

"MOI! MOI! MOI! OINK!" He warns them. The Members of Squad 7 all move for the cover of the Edelweiss and Shamrock, all of them knowing the series of noises Marina taught Hans to make if he smells an ambush. Largo grabs Irene pulls her behind the Edelweiss as whoever is in the trees open fire.

"Contact! Contact!" Vyse calls out to warn those in cabin as he and Salinas send a burst of fire back at whoever ambushed them. Whoever is firing at them seemed to have brought friends as more guns start firing at them from the woods at a worrying rate of fire. Largo smiles as the Shamrock turns it's gatling gun on the trees and opens fire. though this only seems to slightly deter whomever is firing on them.

As bullets impact the cabin walls and shatter the window next to Sy, he, Welkin, and Johann push Rosie, Alicia, and Selvaria respectively to the ground and shield them with their bodies. Alicia and Selvaria both smile in thanks at their respective lieutenants when they glance at them. Rosie glances at Sy who moves away from her.

"Sorry ma'am." Sy remarks. Rosie looks away trying to find the way her cheeks blush.

"Lieutenant! Squad 7 is taking fire from the woods." Juno calls out peaking out the window distracting Rosie and Sy from what just happened.

"We need to help them!" Rosie states. As she she moves for the door Lynn pulls her back into cover as the doorway is hit by a couple rounds.

"We'll be riddled with bullets before we reach them." Wolfgang points out. The Squad 7 members look at him surprised that he was taking it as a certainty that the Imperials were going to help them. A quick glance shows that the rest of the Imperials agree with the shocktrooper.

"Lieutenant I ask permission to go out there to protect your squad." Selvaria states looking at Welkin. Welkin sees the determination in her eyes to prove that she and her troops didn't lead Squad 7 into an ambush.

"Granted." Welkin replies with a nod. Selvaria rises to her feet as the familiar glowing blue aura starts to gather around her but just before it reaches the glow they all are familiar with; Alicia notices blood leaking out of Selvaria's nose as she starts to sway slightly.

"Johann, catch her!" Alicia warns just as the aura vanishes from around Selvaria as she starts to fall. The warning allows Johann to catch the woman before she can hit the ground. Johann strokes her hair soothingly as Selvaria pants as if she just ran for 10 miles.

"I got you ma'am, I got you." Johann assures her before Selvaria spits up a little blood.

"My apologizes everyone, I appear to be still recovering from my injuries in the last battle." Selvaria explains.

"It's alright Selvaria. We have a medic with the squad but I can't risk her getting getting caught in the crossfire." Welkin explains trying not to think about why Selvaria would seem surprised at the offer of medical attention.

"We need a new plan to get to the rest of the squad." Juno remarks.

"Are you all forgetting that we have a second Valkyria in the room? " Sy asks pointing at Alicia.

"No Alicia isn't able to control the powers as well as Selvaria, she.." Welking cuts off when Alicia squeezes his shoulder.

"I can do this." Alicia assures him. Welkin looks into her eyes and sees that steadfast determination that is part of the reason he has fallen for this woman and nods his head in agreement. Alicia turns to look at Selvaria.

"Can you help activate my powers? When I used them against you at the Plains I was basically sleep walking. It wasn't a willing activation." Alicia explains. Selvaria seems surprised by this admission but nods her head in agreement.

"Yes I am certain that I can help. But first which of your comrades here would you said that you care for the most?" Selvaria asks.

"Welkin and Rosie." Alicia replies in an instant. Selvaria looks at the two of them.

"Will you help?" She asks them both who nod without hesitation. "Good, now Alicia please kneel and the two of you kneel on opposite sides facing her. After that Alicia I want you to place your hands over their hearts."

The three squadmates follow her instructions with Welkin on Alicia's right and Rosie on her left. Alicia places her hands over their hearts and looks at Selvaria her eyes shining with determination.

"Close your eyes, focus on their heartbeats, and repeat after me." Selvaria instructs calmly as Alicia follows.

"I care for my friends."

"I care for my friends."

"I will defend my friends."

"I will defend my friends."

"I am their shield."

"I am their shield."

"Now Alicia, my sister in blood, awaken." Selvaria says before Alicia's eyes open to reveal that her normal soft brown have been replaced with that of the crimson of the Valkyria. Alicia rises to her feet as the familiar blue glow surrounds her. It increases in brightness as the shield of Valkyria appears in her left hand. Alicia raises her right hand out as her lance appears in it. She looks around the cabin before locking eyes with Welkin.

"I'll be back shortly." She states before turning and walking out of the cabin. Once she's left, Selvaria lets out a relieved sigh as she relaxes back into Johann's embrace.

"I'm surprised that worked." Selvaria admits chuckling slightly. Welkin looks at her in confusion.

"What do you mean?" He asks.

"I was raise to be a Valkyria weapon, Lieutenant Gunther. I want something different for Alicia. So I improvised something based on how our powers are powered." Selveria admits.

"Well thank you for what you and please it's Welkin." He replies.

"You can call me Selvaria." She replies.

"COME ON! Keep up the pressure! Let's show these punks why you don't pick a fight with Squad 7!" Largo calls out firing a Gallian rifle towards the woods. The other members of Squad 7 roar in agreement.

"Make 'em hurt! Make 'em bleed!" Jane calls out with Hannes laughing in agreement.

"Marina! Catherine! Can either of you tell who is shooting at us?" Largo asks the snipers.

"Silver, black, and skull masks." Marina answers.

"Confirmed!" Catherine adds. Largo scowls remembering briefly encountering a group like that back when Squad 7 briefly worked with Squad 422.

"These bastards again?" Largo growls.

"Miss Alicia?" Dallas gasps next to Irene. Largo turns to toward the cabin to see Alicia standing in front of the cabin in full Valkyria mode. She narrows her eyes at the woods before dashing towards her comrades. Largo watches as she leaps over and lands on the barrel of the Edelweiess. Balancing perfectly she points her lance towards the woods. Largo frowns as all the firing has stopped as soon as Alicia landed on the Edelwiess.

"Reveal yourselves!" Alicia demands.

"Target 2 confirmed! Fall back!" Someone calls out in the woods followed by the sound of hurried footsteps.

"Cowards!" Hannes roars at the trees.

"Salinas, Freesia keep an eye on the trees." Alicia orders jumping down, her aura and weapons disappearing as she decends, only to find Dallas in her face, starry-eyed.

"That was so awesome, Miss Alicia!" Dallas gushes happily. Alicia smiles at the engineer and pats her head.

"Thanks Dallas I had a little help." Alicia replies before looking for Fina.

"Fina!" Alicia calls drawing the attention of the medic. She points up at the cabin, " There's a wounded woman in there. She needs help."

Fina nods in understanding, grabs her medical supplies and rushes up the hill.

"So what's up in the cabin Alicia?" Zaka asks as he and Largo approach her. Alicia glances around sees the rest of the squad looking at her wanting to know the same.

"The Imperial Valkyria and a small group of Imperial soldiers wish to defect to Gallian Forces." Alicia explains to the shock of everyone.

"Blimey." Catherine remarks as Jane and Hannes glare hatefully at the cabin.

Chapter Text

Welkin looks up when Fina enters the cabin.

"Alicia said there was an injured woman in here." The medic states glancing at Lynn and Rosie. Welkin moves to the side so Fina can see Selvaria sitting in the arms of Johann. She doesn't even pause moving quickly to crouch down next to her.

"Ma'am can you describe what is injured?" Fina asks.

"Physically I feel fine if very tired. As I am sure you're familiar in regards to Alicia I can heal at an accelerated rate" Selvaria replies. Fina fiddles with the ragnite box she carried inside before pulling out two wires with patches attached.

"With your permission I'll give you a pulse of Ragnite to help. We've found it works with Alicia." Fina offers. Selvaria seems to take a deep breath before turning her head away letting the breath out slowly.

"Johann your hand." Selvaria requests raising her hand. Johann intertwines their hands without a second thought. "proceed."

Fina attaches the patches to either side of Selvaria's neck noticing her flinch very slightly. Fina fiddles with the settings on the box before locking eyes with Johann.

"Sending the pulse in 3,2,1." As Fina counts down she sees Selvaria close her eyes. As the pulse illuminates the room, she sees the the grip Selvaria has on Johann tighten before loosening as the glow receeds.

"Your hand good Johann?" one of the shocktroopers asks.

"All good Otto."

"Do you feel better now, ma'am?" Fina asks as she gently removes the patches. Selvaria and Johann rise to their feet.

"I feel much better though I think I will give my body more time to recover before attempting to use my powers." Selvaria answers. Fina just nods.

"Is anyone else injured?" The medic asks glancing around. One of the imperial shocktroopers points at his Lancer comrade.

"Elvin here took a blow to the jaw yesterday during the battle but he's too damn stubborn to mention it." the Trooper remarks causing Lynn to gasp slightly.

"That was you?" She asks as Fina moves over to the Lancer.

"Yep. No hard feelings. We were on opposing sides and I was aiming at one of your tanks' ragnite engines." Elvin replies. Lynn points at Welkin.

"It was Welkin's tank that you were aiming at." Lynn remarks. Elvin glances at Welkin who doesn't seem to mind.

"Like you said no hard feelings." Welkin remarks.

"Mind removing your helmet sir?" Fina asks. Elvin nods before taking it off. Underneath the helmet he is revealed to a man of around Largo's age. He has blonde hair, warm green eyes, and a lantern jaw covered in a 5 o'clock shadow. Around his upper neck and lower jaw is a dark purple bruise. Rosie lets out a whistle at seeing the bruise.

"Damn Lynn, your hand to hand skills have gotten good." Rosie compliments. As Fina examines the bruises Welkin turns to Selvaria.

"I'm willing to accept your defection pending my CO's decision, but what do you plan do to now?" He asks.

"We wish to fight alongside you." Selvaria answers Johann nods in agreement.

"Yeah the Prince doesn't have enough bullets holes in his head for my liking." Sy remarks drawing a laugh from Rosie.

”for now while you travel with us, I must ask that you have a member of my squad as a ‘supervisor’ for now. Johann I will watch you and Alicia will watch over Selvaria. Rosie, Lynn, Juno any of you you want to watch one of them?” Welkin asks.

”I’ll take Sy here.” Rosie says.

”I’ll take Elvin here.” Lynn remarks moving to stand next to the lancer.

”I‘ll watch Wolfgang sir.” Juno remarks.

”Be careful ma’am.” Elvin warns with a smirk. Juno looks at him.

”oh, why?”

”Wolfgang has a habit about gushing about his daughter to any new person he meets.” Elvin tells her with a laugh.

”I won’t apologize for being a doting father.” Wolfgang retorts crossing his arms getting a laugh from most of the group. Welkin smiles as the banter reminds him of his squad. He looks up when Alicia, Largo, and Zaka enter the cabin. Largo looks around.

”Looks like we’re in the middle of it now boss man.” Largo remarks.

”They surrendered and want to help us. I’m not going to demonize that for fighting the same war we were.” Welkin replies to which largo nods in understanding.

”If it helps, I can vouch for Johann over there. He stuck up for me and the others several times back in Fouzen.” Zaka remarks gesturing towards the former Imperial Lieutenant.

”Hey Zaka, glad to see that you made it out of Fouzen.” Johann remarks. Zaka just nods as he looks at Selvaria.

”Your Lieutenant spent the entire time he was Fouzen concerned for you, miss. I hope you appreciate his loyalty.” Zaka tells her. Selvaria looks at Johann.

”It almost took me to long to realize how important Johann is but I’m glad I did.” Selvaria states. Johann looks away as he feels his face warm. Zaka glances at the Imperial sniper next to Rosie.

“I’m assuming that you’re Sy.” He remarks. The sniper nods before removing his helmet. Rosie and Lynn gasp at Sy’s blue-black hair.

“You’re a Darcsen?” Lynn mutters in disbelief.

“Technically only half. Me Ma was Darcsen.” Sy explains.

“But you still fought for the Emprie!” Lynn exclaims.

“You’d be surprised by just how many Darcsen fight under the Imperial banner.” Selvaria remarks. Zaka gives the woman a curious look before looking back at the sniper.

“You’ve got a loyal friend in Johann. He told me that part of the reason that he stood up for me and mine was because of you.” Zaka informs Sy. The sniper laughs.

“While I won’t deny that I likely had some influence on Johann’s protectiveness, I think we all know that the majority of it was do to Selvaria over there.” Sy replies drawing chuckles from his comrades and Zaka. Johann just ducks his head in embarrassment, while Selvaria just smiles enjoying the moment.

“While this is entertaining and all we’d best get a move on. Alicia scared off those skull masked punks but they’ll be back.” Largo remarks. Selvaria and Sy tense at the mention.

“Calamity Raven.” Selvaria mutters. Welkin looks at her.

“You’re familiar with them?” He asks.

“Just that they exist and report directly to Maximilian. They are a special unit comprised almost entirely of Imperial Darscen led by a former resistance leader named Dahau.” The former general explains.

“They’re zealots to the extreme, we should move. I don’t think that they were scared off, they wanted to confirm that Alicia was with you all. Once they did they fell back to lead the heavy units here.” Sy suggests, a scowl on his face hating Calamity Raven for the bad name he feels they give his mom’s people.

“Largo, Zaka either of you willing to look after Otto or I’m sorry what are your names?” Welkin asks the two scouts who haven’t identified themselves.

“Kurt Krisbel.”

“Ernst Garmson.”

“I’ll take Otto.” Largo states pointing at the shock trooper.

“It’s crowded in the Shamrock with just me so I’ll have to decline.” Zaka remarks. Welkin nods in acknowledgment before the group moves outside to talk with the rest of squad 7.

“Alright everyone listen up! Until and unless Captain Varrot says otherwise I’ve accepted these imperial’s declaration to defect. For now, I’d like each of them to have a minder. Only Ernst and Kurt don’t have one, so any volunteers?” Welkin explains. Vyse and Susie step forward.

“I’ll watch Kurt.” Susie offers smiling.

“Aika and I can babysit Ernst.” Vyse offers with a smirk. Elvin comes over behind Kurt and places his hand on his comrades shoulder.

“I apologize in advance for Kurt’s reticence miss. The kid is not good around pretty girls.” Elvin explains chuckling. Kurt turns glare at his older comrade.

“He dropped his rifle when we first met Selvaria.” Wolfgang remembers drawing a snicker from Sy and Rosie.

”before we start marching might I request a change of clothes? My uniform was tattered in the destruction of Ghirlandio and is not conducive to marching.” Selvaria explains. The females scouts of squad 7 are able to scrounge up a spare uniform for her.

”how do I look?” Selvaria asks stepping out into view dressed in the uniform of a gallian militia scout. Johann’s jaw drops. While not as form fitting as her previous outfit, the new attire was still very flattering. Otto nudges him to remind him to speak.

”you look beautiful ma’am.” Johann compliments blushing as red as his general’s eyes while Selvaria just smiles.

With that, Squad 7 and their prospective allies start marching back toward Randgriz. Irene is quick to plant herself next to Johann and firing off questions as the ride on the Edelweiss. He tries to be polite to the reporter but his eyes keep drifting to his general.

“I can’t tell if he’s concerned about your health or worried that you’re going to erupt into a jealous rage.” Alicia remarks to Selvaria a short while later. Selvaria sends a reassuring smile towards Johann before looking at Alicia.

“If there is one thing that I can count it’s Johann’s loyalty. I won’t begrudge him talking to another woman. Though if another woman flirts with him, I will take offense.” Selvaria remarks.

“A few of the girls in the squad are spoken for but I’ll warn the others away. I know Freesia is a bit of flirt but she’s not the type to settle down. And I won’t flirt with Johann.” Alicia assures the silver haired woman. Selvaria just smirks.

“Yes you have your own lieutenant to be the target of your affections.” She teases causing the brunette to blush.

“Excuse me Lynn?” Elvin asks drawing the attention of the shock trooper from where they in the middle of the marching company.

“Yes?” Lynn prompts. Elvin gestures towards where Karl is marching nearby.

“Who is that man and why does he keep glaring at me?” Elvin asks.

“That’s Karl. The love of my live.” Lynn answers with a happy smile.

“Did I offend him or is it the imperial thing?” Elvin asks.

“Karl suffers from feelings of inadequacy and he’s probably worried that you’ll try flirting with me.” Lynn explains. Elvin laughs at this.

“I’ll admit that you’re a beautiful young woman, you’re at least 15 years younger than me and, like all the other women here, not my type.” Elvin explains.

“I feel like I must ask, who is your type?” Lynn queries. Elvin reaches into a pocket and pulls a photo handing it to her.

Examining the photo, Lynn see Elvin in civilian clothes with his arm around the shoulders of a pleasant blonde woman. The couple are standing with their hands on the shoulders of a smiling blonde girl.

“That’s my wife Natalia and my daughter Misha.” Elvin says. Lynn smiles hearing the love and affection he has for both of them.

“And you said that Wolfgang was the one who gushes about his daughter.” Lynn teases. Elvin just gestures to where Juno, Freesia, Edy, and Yoko are cooing at some of the pictures Wolfgang is showing them. Lynn just chuckles.

For the rest of the day, the group marches onward back to the capital careful to avoid any possible trouble. As the sun was reaching the horizon they came across a decent sized field with a few trees near the center and Welkin ordered for camp to be set up.

The group, after setting up the tents, had a quick meal and went to bed. The defectors bunking with those that offer from squad 7. Susie and Vyse taking the first of the night watch.

A few hours pass, the barely there moon provides very little light for Susie to see as she patrols the tents. She turns when she hears what could be a struggle coming from the direction that she is pretty sure that Vyse is only to receive a rifle stock to the face.

When her vision clear a Calamity Raven scout is pointing a kar at her.

“Tell me which tent the two Gallian Valkyria are sleeping in and I’ll grant you a quick death.” The scout orders. Susie glares at the man but before she can utter any words of defiance, Kurt leaps from the shadows, pulls the scout’s head back, and drives a knife into the mask’s eyehole.

“Are you okay?” Kurt asks offering his hand to Susie.

“Yes thank you for the save.” Susie replies taking the offered hand. Susie grabs her rifle off the ground as Kurt swipes the slain scout’s rifle.

“LOOK ALIVE, SQUAD 7! HOSTILE FORCES ARE IN THE CAMP!” Kurt yells out.

Chapter Text

Vyse glares at the Calamity Raven scout trying to drive a knife into his eye, the pair grappling on the ground. He’d call for help but he doesn’t know if the Imp is alone.

“LOOK ALIVE, SQUAD 7! HOSTILE FORCES ARE IN THE CAMP!” A voice warns. The scout glances in the direction of the shout the pressure on the knife lessening slightly.

Vase uses this opportunity to punch the scout in the stomach and shove him off. Vyse scrambles for his submachine gun as the scout recovers. Time seems to slow down as he grabs his gun and starts to roll over. The Calamity Raven Scout is already aiming at him. Before either can fire, someone else shoots the scout from a nearby tent.

A half dressed Aika, her hair out of her braids, sprints forward and kicks the enemy scout in the stomach causing a crack. The scout drops to the ground as Aika stands over him a dark look in her eye and a pistol in her hand.

“You.” Bang! “Don’t.” Stomp. “Touch.” Bang! “My.” Stomp. “Man!” With that final growled word Aika empties the clip into the scout. It’s at this point Vyse realizes that Ernst and a shirtless Salinas had joined them.

“Geez, I just thought it was hot when the General did that.” Ernst mutters making Salinas laugh as Aika joins them.

“You okay, baby?” Aika asks Vyse who smirks and gives a thumbs up.

“Marberry.” The voice of Rosie calls out. Out of the darkness, Rosie runs up, Wavy and Lynn flanking her. It’s clear this caught them off guard as the rest of them. Wavy is in his uniform but doesn’t have the added armor, while Rosie seems to not have had time to grab her over shirt the formfitting undershirt quite noticeable. Ernst averts his eyes from looking at Lynn. The Darcsen shock trooper was wearing only a utilitarian bra above the waist, her hair was also rather disheveled.

“Karl is a lucky man.” Salinas mutters followed by a smack. Ernst turns to see Juno having had come up behind them and smacked the shock trooper upside the head.

“Please show a little self awareness Salinas.” The blonde scout scolds.

“Who called the warning?” Rosie asks.

“That was Kurt’s voice.” Ernst answers.

“Green thumb.” Largo’s voices calls before he appears from the darkness.

“Everyone okay?” He asks to which everyone nods in affirmative.

“Bastard got the jump on me but Aika and Kurt’s warning helped me out.” Vyse tells him.

“Yeah another one jumped Susie but Kurt got him. The third tried to run but Marina got em. The boss man wants everyone assembled by the Edelweiss and Shamrock.” Largo tells them. The group follows him to where the rest of Squad 7 is.

Selvaria smiles at Ernst as the scout moves to stand next to his fellow deserters while Welkin speaks with Susie.

“You said that the scout wanted something?” Welkin asks.

“Yes he wanted to know where the ‘two Gallian Valkyria’ were. I wasn’t going to tell him anything then Kurt appeared and killed him with a knife.” Susie explains briefly glancing at Kurt before looking away her cheeks flushing.

“I think someone has a crush.” Otto teases Kurt. Kurt’s crush on the blonde has been known among the deserters since their first fight with Squad 7 in the desert ruins.

“You did good son.” Elvin tells Kurt who stands taller at the assurance of the older soldier.

“Two Gallian Valkyria? If Alicia is one who’s the other?” Welkin asks.

“If I may?” Selvaria asks from where she stands next to Johann and Alicia. Welkin nods for her to go ahead.

“I overheard Dahue report to Maximilian that he suspected that there was a second Valkyria among the Gallian forces. A redhead woman clad in black.” Selvaria tells them.

“Riela?” Alicia asks.

“That could cause issues if Calamity Raven forces a confrontation. They are looking for someone who don't know the location of.” Welkin remarks.

“I don’t think we want to know what they have planned for Alicia and Riela. Hopefully we’ll be able to avoid their forces in the area with scouts unable to report back.” Zaka remarks.

“SOP for infiltration of enemy camps is for one to stay hidden and regroup with the main force in the event that the infiltration team is discovered and killed.” Ernst pipes up.

“Well shit.” Zaka groans.

“Squad 7 try to get some rest. But stay on guard.” Welkin instructs.

“Lynn remember to keep the noises to a minimum whatever you and Karl get up to.” Rosie adds playfully. Ernst starts laughing.

“It was one time people! One time!” Lynn growls stomping back to her tent with Karl, his red face visible even in the darkness, following. The rest of Squad 7 start returning to their respective tents.

“Well it’s nice to know that they’re happy together.” Selvaria remarks stoically. Ernst falls to the ground shaking with laughter.

“Is he….he good?” Largo asks.

“He is easily amused.” Wolfgang explains.

“Let’s let him laugh himself out. Kurt thank you for helping Susie.” Welkin says to the scout who shrugs.

“I don’t like seeing men hit women sir.” He states before walking away towards the tent he was assigned to.

“Elvin would you go talk with him?” Selvaria asks.

“Aye ma’am.” The Lancer states before following after his comrade. Selvaria glances at Welkin who nods.

“The rest of you can go. Alicia, Largo, Rosie and Zaka stay behind.” Welkin states.

“Susie can stay if she wishes to.” Johann remarks to which none of his fellow deserters disagree. Susie looks at her commanding officer who just nods in permission.

“As long you’re certain that Kurt won’t be bothered by me knowing whatever you’re about to tell us.” Susie states as the rest of Squad 7 go back to their tents.

“The kid doesn’t really care who knows about his past, he just doesn’t like remembering it.” Sy explains.

“How bad?” Largo asks.

“Five years ago, when he was 14 Kurt came home to find his father viciously beating his mother. This was a common occurrence in the Krisbel household. But something snapped in Kurt that day and he killed his father with a kitchen knife.” Selvaria explains.

“Shit. I’m guessing that Kurt’s mom didn’t make it?” Zaka remarks.

“She passed due to her injuries shortly after. Kurt was pressed into military service shortly after. He met Elvin a year later.” Wolfgang explains.

The group split up shortly there after all of them having things to consider.

When Alicia awakes early the next morning, her fellow Valkyria was no longer there. Stepping out of her tent, she finds Selvaria standing outside a peaceful smile on her face as stares at the sun peaking up from the horizon.

“Good morning sister.” Selvaria greets. Alicia smiles having quickly realized why Selvaria considers her family.

“Given your former black outfit and your stoic demeanor I wouldn’t have thought you’d be a morning person.” Alicia teases lightly. Selvaria smiles.

“Having grown up in that lab with our sisters, seeing the sun rise was something we’d dream of being able to see.” Selvaria explains.

“A lab?” Alicia asks horrified.

“Our sisters don’t have an easy life outside of Gallian. In the Empire we are put through torturous experiments to become the perfect weapons.” Selvaria explains.

“And in the Federation?” Alicia asks.

“If the rumors Maximilian shared with me are true, those who are found to have the blood of Valkyrur in them are used as ragnite engines.” Selvaria explains. Alicia pulls the slightly older woman into a hug; though for whose comfort it was she couldn’t say.

“I won’t let them take you.” Alicia swears. Selvaria returns the hug.

“My thanks my sister.” She replies.

“Loathe as I am to interrupt…” Wolfgang remarks. The two women turn around and Alicia’s eyes widen at seeing the shock trooper without his helmet.

He had a weathered face with short salt and pepper hair stubble across his chin. His right eye was stormy grey while his left was milky white the surrounding area was covered in scars.

“Federation black ops raid two years back. Caught shrapnel trying to pull a wounded soldier from a destroyed tank.” Wolfgang explains.

“Wasn’t even on duty and still pulled my ass from the fire.” Ernst says walking past Wolfgang. Alicia notes that under his helmet Ernst is a redhead with the kind of face that would blend into a crowd easily.

“Did all of you know each other before the empire invaded Gallia?” Alicia asks.

“No ma’am. Elvin and I met because my dearly departed wife was his sister. Elvin introduced me to Kurt. I met Ernst after I saved him. He introduced me to Sy. It was until the siege of ghirlandaio that we met Johann, Otto, and of course Selvaria.” Wolfgang explains.

“So how did Johann and Selvaria meet?” Alicia asks.

“She needed a unit to provide medical support as captured Ghirlandaio. Johann was selected. The two of them flanked while we held the line.” Wolfgang explains.

“He was so nervous.” Selvaria reminisces fondly.

“Then when General Damon tried using a chemical agent to help him retake Ghirlandio, Johann was the one to come up with a plan to rescue Selvaria and turn the tide.” Wolfgang explains.

“Though he was terrified he didn’t hesitate to rush to my aid. I realize that was when I started to deeply care for him.” Selvaria admits.

“You two are rather cute together.” Alicia remarks.

“Too bad Johann thinks that he doesn’t deserve a woman like Selvaria.” Wolfgang remarks.

“Well I think that I should go disabuse him of such a notion.” She states walking away. Alicia and Wolfgang follow curious about her plan.

Selvaria finds her lieutenant talking with her sister’s near the Edelweiss. Welkin is the first to notice her approach and points her out to Johann.

“Good morning General, did you sleep well?” Johann asks. Selvaria just smiles before grabbing his collar and pulling him into a loving kiss.

Irene takes a picture while the deserters cheer. Johann is tense at first before his arms go around Selvaria’s waist. After several minutes they pull away.

“I trust where we stand with each is clear Johann.” Selvaria states.

“Crystal clear Selvaria.” Johann replies the depth of his feelings for the woman in his arms clear in his brown eyes.