"I daresay I won't be trying on any heels anytime soon," murmured Fritz with some amusement, a low laugh escaping his lips. "Needless to say, they aren't really my choice of footwear."

He hadn't meant to embarrass her with his thanks, but it was the first time that someone had offered to do something genuine for him since coming to the outposts. Fritz had met his fair share of good, decent people, and he had had some good times (despite the very obvious and desperate desire to return home), but Menthe had been the first to do something for him, even if it was little.

"I think I'd like that," he told her with a smile, and carefully helped the older woman step over another loose pile of rubble, taking her by the elbow. Once they had cleared it, he offered her his arm again, waiting until she took it to continue walking. The Leo outpost, with its grand, rococo style castle, loomed closer, and soon they were nearing the front steps.

"Lunch is on me," Fritz said with a wink, and stepped inside the building.