After several months of work on other projects and replaying the game, I decided to write a continuance of Invitations covering the context of said letters. For those who didn't read, it's under my profile. For those that have, here you go!

It was one thing to have friends and family to come and congratulate you on good news.

It was another thing entirely when those friends and family happened to be famous.

The first guests to the town of Legram were pretty simple. Towa and George were in Erebonia for a few months and wanted to give their congratulations in person. Shortly after, Kenneth Lakelord and Monica arrived; one going fishing shortly after giving his congratulations while the other challenged her friend to a race in the lake.

Rean and Laura, the couple in question, entertained these early visitors for a few days before wishing them farewell, all promising to be there on the promised date.

Then came the first circus.

A caravan of limos rolled down the highway, scaring the residents of Legram stiff. It wasn't every day that such expensive vehicles rolled down the street and parked in the square, even more so when those cars were flying the colors of Houses Albarea and Rogner.

Nor was it every day one saw a heavily modified Orbal bike trying to outrace said limos.

Atop the hill, in the villa of the ruling lord, gold eyes stared exasperatedly out a window. "Must they always make such an entrance?"

A groan answered the question, a man shifting under the covers of the room's bed. "Who's making a what now?"

Laura chuckled and looked to her fiancée, cheeks wrinkled in amusement. "Oh, just our friends from up north. It looks like they abused their powers to get here."

Rean groaned and sat up, scratching at the scar on his chest. "That means the Albareas right? Didn't think they'd have enough time to come visit for another month."

Laura nodded and glanced out the window again. "It looks like Angelica has arrived as well. I'd recognize that bike anywhere."

Rean yawned, thinking to his own bike stored in the shed outside. "Yeah, that sounds like her alright. Let's get dressed, I don't think we should keep them waiting."

"Quite so," Laura agreed. "The last thing our friends need to see is my nightwear."

Rean rolled his eyes. "Please, you could wear that nightgown to war."

Laura shrugged, knowing it was technically true. "Come on, we need to make sure Angelica doesn't seduce someone."

Rean laughed and caught the shirt she threw at him. Considering their version of foreplay involved steel against steel before any clothes came off, they were used to getting changed in a hurry.

Once they were ready, Rean in some jeans and a white collared shirt with black dress shoes while Laura wore a white buttoned blouse and blue skirt with brown laced up boots, they exited the villa. They waved to Klaus as they left, informing him that they'd have guests again that day.

Once outside, they breathed in the familiar moist air and started down the long stairs to the square. As expected, most of the town had turned out to see the procession, but Rean and Laura were focused in on three in particular.

"Jusis, Paula, Angie!" Rean called to his friends, two blondes and a head of purple turning to greet him. "We didn't expect you guys to come so soon!"

The lone male blonde smirked at the couple, hand coming to rest under his chin. "Why would we not come at such a prodigious announcement? You made time to come congratulate us, so we made time to do the same."

Paula giggled and bounced up to Laura, taking her hand. "I'm so happy to hear you guys finally got a date set! Here I was, worrying two of my best friends would never do it!"

Laura chuckled. "Paula, you and Jusis were the first sevens to get married. We've been in talks with our fathers for months trying to get everything straight."

Angelica sidled up, joining the huddle and grinning at Rean. "Well, when you have the Ashen Chevalier and the Alabaster Queen tying the knot, who doesn't want to give their congratulations in person."

She winked. "Can't say I'm not a little envious though, I never did get any of you to join me for a ride."

Rean glared halfheartedly. "Yeah, no. Anyway, would you like some refreshments? We can talk over tea."

Jusis strode forward and patted Rean's arm. "Gladly. Please, lead the way."

Rean nodded and turned back to the villa, Laura looping her arm through his. Paula did the same with Jusis while Angelica took the open spot on the right. All the servants that had no doubt insisted they come followed behind at an appropriate distance, but most knew they wouldn't actually be doing much.

Once they were inside, and Klaus served refreshments, the servants were dismissed to speak and trade tips with the elderly butler. Paula got them rolling, an excited grin on her face. "So, you have the date and place, but what about the details?"

Rean shrugged. "We haven't given it that much thought. I mean, we were thinking a potluck for the reception, but that's about as far as we've gotten."

Paula puffed out her cheeks, but Jusis spoke first. "That doesn't surprise me. You did place the date several months from now."

"So that means you'll need help." Angelica said. "Lucky for you, I don't have anything outside of the country until next year anyway. Just ring me up and I'll come running."

Laura laughed. "George and Towa promised the same thing when they were here a few days ago. Kenneth and Monica came by as well, and I asked her to be one of my bridesmaids."

She smiled at Paula. "Speaking of that topic, I'd like you to be one as well."

Paula looked stricken before squealing and jumping over to hug Laura, Jusis smiling in exasperation while Angelica laughed.

"It's not just her." Rean said. "I want you to be one of my groomsmen Jusis. I plan on asking the others when I see them."

Jusis grew stoic before a kind smile he usually only showed his wife rose on his face. "That… I would be honored."

Angelica laughed at her juniors. "Man, you guys really have a lot of planning to do! What, are you waiting for all of your invitees to show up before doing anything, or are we just special?"

Rean rolled his eyes. "Says the one who tried to outrace her own staff. Tell me, what laws did you break on your way here? I promised Towa to give her a list so she knew how hard to glare at you."

Angelica's jaw clicked shut, a look of terror crossing her face.

"That's what I thought." Rean smirked. "Anyway, how long are you guys going to be here? I assume it can't be too long."

Jusis sighed. "You would be correct. Paula and I will have to return tomorrow afternoon in order to make it in time for the fort inspection."

Angelica shook her head too. "Same for me. Dad's on my ass about some social again, but I need to meet with George up in Roer about the new bike model. Maybe I'll see Alisa; she should be back from Nord by now."

Laura finally got Paula off of her. "Well, why don't we go out on the lake today? It's clear this week and Rean's told me the fishing is good."

She got some cheers before Rean, Jusis, and Angelica went to find Klaus and get the Arseid family's personal vessel ready. Laura and Paula, meanwhile, made their way upstairs at Paula's insistence.

Once they were sure they were alone, Laura looked to her giddy friend. "What do you need to tell me?"

"Ok, so remember the last letter we sent you a few weeks ago, about me getting food poisoning?" Paula asked, hands gripping at the green and gold fabric of her dress.

Laura nodded. "Yes, I believe Jusis had a long talk with the hunter who procured the meat. Wasn't the animal sick though?"

Paula shook her head, smile never leaving her face. "No, that's the thing. See… I have a bun!"

Laura tilted her head. "What does bread have to do with this?"

Paula scowled, eye twitching. "Right, you can't figure out a metaphor. Look, Laura… I'm pregnant!"

Laura went slack-jawed, openly gaping at her radiant friend. Paula, already seeing the questions starting to form, started firing off answers. "I'm only two weeks, I haven't told Jusis yet, the doctor put the birth a month after your wedding, and you're the first of our friends to know! It was serendipitous that you sent the invite the day before I found out!"

Laura finally caught up to her own thoughts and squealed, honestly squealed, in happiness. The two friends hugged each other hard, though Laura subconsciously made sure she put no pressure on her friend's gut.

"That's wonderful news!" Laura whispered. "When are you going to tell Jusis?"

Paula pulled away. "I plan to tell him after we get back from the inspection. You know how he feels about his father and brother, so don't be surprised if it takes some time for an announcement to come out."

Laura sobered, an understanding frown crossing her lips. "Yes…I understand why you'd take some time. I hope he knows he'll be a wonderful father, not the former Duke."

"I know he will." Paula answered, hard conviction in her voice. "But let's not get too far into this, we're here for you! Let's get on that boat, and don't worry, I don't get motion sick."

Laura smiled again, leading Paula down the stairs and out to the villa's dock. While they were walking, Laura noticed Paula's searching eyes. "Do you really think I'd wear the ring while we're going out on the water? The last thing I need is for Rean to go fishing for it."

Paula snorted, thinking of the numerous pieces of jewelry Rean had fished from every river he could get his hands on. "Point taken"

The friends laughed and joined the others on the dock, casting out for a relaxing day on the lake. Discussion soon turned to work matters, such as when Rean would have to return to Heimdallr and when Jusis would have to give his report to the Emperor.

Angelica put an end to that by pulling out a deck of Blade cards, the rest of the cruise spent either fishing or trying to win back the spoils of their school years.

They returned to find the servants having fixed a thrice-damned feast. Laura and Jusis admonished them for making so much food for just five of them, so the feast was shared with the townspeople. It quickly evolved into a big party and everyone went to sleep either fit to burst or too drunk to stand.

Waking to a pounding hangover, Rean and Jusis met up in the dining room to nurse some tea and talk again.

The first topic though, made Rean blink. "Paula's asked about kids?"

Jusis nodded. "You can tell it's on her mind. She hasn't touched alcohol in months."

"Well…" Rean sighed. "I can't say it's too surprising. You guys have been married, what, four years now?"

Jusis rubbed his forehead. "Four years and six months. I just have my doubts about it."

Rean shrugged. "Well, with Rufus giving up his claim, you need to make an heir of some sort. I can guess where the trepidation comes from, but you're not Helmut Albarea."

"I know." Jusis growled. "But I fear nonetheless. My only idea of a father is my Uncle, but I spent far too much time seeing the example made by the former Duke. I don't want to be like him, but my schedule may force me into the role."

Rean sipped his tea. "Then don't let it. You can make it so only the most important of tasks require your personal attention, correct?"

Jusis smirked. "That I can, but the doubts still remain. It's not as if I don't want a child of my own… I just wonder if I'll be a good father."

He shook his head. "Forgive me for sharing that burden, we should be celebrating your announcement alone. Tell me, has anyone besides Towa, George, Kenneth, or Monica come to greet you yet?"

Rean smiled. "Not yet, but we're expecting to see a lot of people over the next few weeks. Don't be surprised if you see me in a cast next month, my mother will probably crush my ribs."

Jusis laughed, but winced as pain shot through his head. "Quite… I think I'll go wake my wife, we need to get on the road soon."

Rean waved and Jusis trudged up the stairs, only to be replaced by a far too fresh-faced Angelica. "Yo, that bourbon hitting you hard?"

"No, it's all hunky dory." Rean groaned. "Why'd you even bring Flame Tongue brand bourbon?"

Angelica shrugged. "It's got enough of a kick to get me buzzed. Anyway, when are you guys going to really start planning this out? I need to know so I can help."

Rean pinched his nose, feeling another throb of pain. "Probably after we get our groomsmen and bridesmaids in order. Once we know that, everything else can roll from there."

Angelica smirked. "Sounds good to me. Say, who's going to be the Best Man and Maid of Honor?"

Rean smirked back. "That is for us to know and you to find out."

Angelica almost pressed for an answer before the others came down and joined them. After a quick breakfast, Rean and Laura bid their friends goodbye and watched them leave.

"So…" Laura began. "Paula's pregnant."

Rean burst into laughter, the couple discussing the news excitedly until the rest of the day's business called them away.

Calm settled on the town for the next three days, well-wishers coming only in twos or threes. Linde and Vivi both came to wish them well, and demand front row seats in Vivi's case, though that was her being a joker like always. Klein and Casper had the luck of arriving on the same train, the former swim members catching up while Rean helped clean out a new monster nest on the highway.

After them came most of their fellow classmates from the commoner classes, the most interesting example being Rosine and Becky. The church squire had apologized, again, for deceiving them as to her true identity while Becky has marched into the villa with an entire catalogue of suits, dresses, catering companies, and so on that she and her husband Hugo had made.

Then there were the congratulatory letters for those that could not meet them in person. Most came from their noble friends, with only Theresia being able to show up in person to congratulate her friends. Many of their former instructors sent their own well wishes, even an incredibly pompous one arriving from now Principal Heinrich.

Rean was just glad the man had mellowed out over the last few years.

Then the day came when another train arrived in Legram and practically vomited the old Thors Wind Orchestra alongside Rean and Laura's parents. All of them were led by two familiar faces, Elliot and Fie.

"It's good to be back." Elliot sighed as the group walked toward the stairs leading to the villa. "Haven't been here in eight months I think."

Fie snuggled into her boyfriend's arm. "Yeah, that sounds right. I think we were helping Rean clean out a bunch of ghouls in Lohengrin."

A laugh met her words, the Viscount of Legram stepping up beside them. "That place will continue to harbor its fair share of spirits. While its occupant may be gone, that doesn't mean the residue doesn't linger."

"Let's not give them too much trouble, Victor." Teo Schwarzer said. "We've come to visit our children, let's make sure that remains the reason we're here."

His wife, Lucia, giggled beside him. "I'm just glad they finally decided to take the next step. Rean's been going to every jeweler in the Empire these last few months."

At that time, Mint showed her general predilection towards chaos and somehow caused part of the inn's wall to collapse. Hibelle and Bridget immediately went over to both offer aid and scold the clumsy mechanic while Elliot and Fie guided the parents up the stairs.

Upon arrival, they were greeted by Klaus who bowed to Victor first. "My Lord, it's good to see that you've returned."

Victor smiled at his old friend. "It's good to be back. I'll tell you all about my latest trip over dinner, but right now, can we see the happy pair?"

"Father!" A voice cried, soon revealing Laura in her sparring gear. "I didn't think you'd come so soon!"

Victor opened his arms and strode forward, embracing his sweaty daughter happily. "It's so good to see you, both keeping at your training and finally taking your next big step."

Laura hugged him back. "Thank you, Father. I was more than a little surprised when he popped the question, but I'm glad we were able to settle on a date so soon."

Victor rubbed her back and smiled over her shoulder. "It's good to see you as well, Rean."

Rean stepped around the corner, a towel over his shoulders. "Same to you, sir."

He smiled as his parents came into view. "Mom, Dad. I'm amazed you got here so soon."

Lucia smiled before striding forward and crushing Rean in a big hug. "Oh, my baby boy's getting married! Have you gone dress shopping, chosen a suit, catering-?"

Teo laid a hand on his wife's shoulder. "Let him breathe dear, he's turning blue."

Lucia grew sheepish and released Rean, blushing when her son started gasping for air. "Sorry, I got excited."

Rean tried to laugh and cough at the same time, but he didn't succeed. After catching his breath, he smiled at his mother. "It's fine, I was expecting you to do that. Thanks for coming, both of you."

Teo smiled and hugged Rean as well, though far gentler than Lucia. "I'm proud of you son, as I always have been. Don't hesitate to give us a call if you need help getting anything ready."

Rean returned the hug before looking back to see Elliot and Fie patiently waiting for their turn. "Elliot, Fie! It's good to see you!"

Elliot stepped forward and bumped fists with Rean. "Nice to see you too. Doing well here I take it?"

Rean laughed. "Not sure why you're asking, considering we saw each other earlier this year. Say, did you get rid of the ponytail?"

"Much to my objection." Fie drawled, drawing Rean's gaze to her. "Good to see you healthy. Considering you guys were sparring, it wouldn't surprise me if there were some broken bones."

Rean shuddered as a memory of a previous spar passed through his mind. "Don't remind me. Anyway, is it just you guys? We heard some kind of crash from the town and were going to investigate."

Elliot sighed and Fie smirked, the silver haired girl speaking first. "That's just Mint. Most of the old Wind Orchestra came to visit you, though Alan couldn't come. Little Denny didn't want her papa to leave."

Rean nodded his head. "Alright, then I assume that mess will sort itself out."

He looked to his parents and soon to be father-in-law, gesturing for Elliot and Fie to follow him while he was at it. "Let's chat in the living room. You guys can catch me up on what's been going on and why Fie there has decided to imitate Emma's hairstyle from back in Thors."

Fie smirked and played with the long braid, following the congregation into the room for a nice afternoon of catching up and grilling the couple on their plans. The missing members joined them half-way through and they all settled into a nice dinner courtesy of Klaus and Lucia.

Once dinner was done, Rean and Laura asked Elliot and Fie to meet with them separately. Teo and Victor joined Rean and Elliot while Lucia went with Laura and Fie.

Elliot felt more than a little nervous as the door shut behind him, Rean and his father sitting at a pair of chairs while Vicotr leaned against the wall. "So… what am I here for?"

"I want you to be my best man." Rean answered, getting straight to the point. "You were my first friend at Thors and you've done a lot to help me over the years. I can't think of anyone else I'd rather have."

Elliot gaped, openly shocked, while Teo decided to play devil's advocate. "I thought you'd be asking Mr. Worzel. He did a lot for you during the civil war too."

Rean smiled at his father. "No, Gaius may be one of my best friends too, but he's not one for something like this. Besides, I don't think he'll have the time to learn all the customs with his duties in Nord."

Victor got in on the act. "Then Mr. Regnitz or Duke Albarea. Were they not close friends as well?"

Rean chuckled. "They've already been best men, at each other's weddings at that. I'm pretty sure they'd prefer to just be groomsmen this time."

He looked to Elliot, almost rolling his eyes at the dramatic tears in his friend's eyes. "In any case, Elliot was always my first choice. I hope we can count on you to deliver quite the performance."

Elliot wiped his eyes. "Is that it? …Sure, I'll gladly be your best man. I'll even drag in my entire orchestra if I have to!"

Rean's stare turned blank. "Elliot, we can only have-at most- the old Wind Orchestra in the chapel. The wedding's here, not Roer or Bareahard."

Elliot scratched his head. "Oh, right. So what are your father and the Viscount doing here again?"

"We wanted to play devil's advocate." Teo answered. "But we also need to speak with Rean in private. This was just a nice opportunity to split off from the others."

Victor opened the door for Elliot. "Go and join the others, I think I hear them starting to dig into dessert. We'll join you before long."

Elliot looked worried, but Rean told him to go. After the door shut, Victor grabbed a spare chair and sat across from Rean. "Alright, we're going to cut to the chase."

"Rean," Teo began. "We need to know which title you're going to succeed. By marrying Laura, you're making it so two titles are competing for one person. Mind, if you end up having a couple kids in a few years-I'm not trying to pressure you-then this goes away."

"However," Victor continued. "By imperial law you have to choose. I may have the higher rank, but Legram isn't without it's issues and you can't leave willy-nilly."

Rean groaned. "I thought Elise was going to succeed, Dad. She'd become the Baroness while I took over with Laura here."

Teo chuckled. "You must not have heard. Princess Alfin took your sister as a personal handmaid."

"In other words," Victor continued. "The princess has taken your sister as her lover."

Rean gaped, not able to find any words for several minutes. "…W-wait! I thought she was into boys, always was last I checked!"

Teo patted Rean's shoulder. "Shocked the hell out of your mother and I too. Didn't think it was true until she came to visit with the Princess and your mother heard them going at it."

Rean groaned and hid his face in his hands. "Can we not talk about my sister like Angelica's in the room? Aidios, I'm surprised she hasn't stormed the capital at the news."

Victor shrugged. "It's not uncommon for the Imperial family to take lovers from time to time. Emperor Eugent had Oliviert by a commoner lover before he married the Empress and there's plenty of cases over Erebonia's history of same-sex lovers."

Rean kept his head in his hands. "Geez, if she visits it's going to be awkward."

Teo adopted a light glare. "Are you not happy? From what I saw, the two of them are quite happy together."

Rean shook his head. "Not that, I'm really happy they feel the same for each other. It's just a shock, especially since I saw no hints of it."

Teo frowned. "Rean, you couldn't tell your own sister had a thrice-damned crush on you until your mother cracked the truth over your head. Considering she went to the Princess for comfort after you talked with her about it should have been a big clue."

Rean pinched his nose. "I've gone to Elliot for similar help before and you don't see me trying to steal him from Fie."

He sighed. "In any case, I will give the choice due consideration. I owe a lot to both of you and I don't want either of our families to lose the lands for no good reason. I still think Elise can be the Baroness, but if the law says she can't, then it is what it is."

Teo and Victor looked to each other before nodding. Victor left the room, calling for 'Embarassing Laura Stories' while Teo wrapped his arm around his son. "I'm proud of you, no matter what you chose. I hate having to put this burden on you, but there's little I can do. Maybe when Prince Cedic succeeds the throne, his sister can convince him to change the rules."

Rean shook his head. "I hope he can. Elise deserves her birthright, even if I have to pass it over to her through every piece of bureaucratic crap there is."

Teo rolled his eyes, well used to the old argument. "It's your right as much as hers."

He stood and stretched, bones popping into place. "How about we go join your friends? I have some stories of my own I want to share."

Rean stood as well, stopping by the doorframe as he looked out to the joyful gathering.

Man, here I was thinking this would be fun. Laura's not going to enjoy hearing about this, I just know it.

Sighing, Rean joined the festivities. Laura came out of the room she'd gone into with Fie and Lucia, all three women radiant with joy, until Laura noticed Rean's frown.

"Excuse us." Laura said. "I think the spar earlier tired us more than we thought. Father, Klaus, would you mind showing everyone to the guest rooms? Rean and I will retire for the night."

Laura didn't wait for an answer, grabbing Rean by the hand and pulling him up the stairs and into their room. Locking the door, Laura looked back to find Rean out on the room's balcony. "Rean, are you ok? Did Elliot tell you no?"

Rean didn't answer, instead staring out at the town. The lights were on now, giving the buildings a nice glow that made the night peaceful. Minus the new wall in the inn, but Mint had sworn not to touch anything after that.

Laura came up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist. "Rean, talk to me. How many problems did we have that could have been solved just by talking?"

Rean sighed and gripped her arms. "More than I care to remember. Ok, first things first, Elliot agreed to be my best man."

Laura smiled, resting her head on Rean's shoulder so she could see his face. "Fie agreed to be my Maid of Honor too. Your mother was quite adamant we discuss dress colors then and there."

Rean chuckled half-heartedly. "Yeah, that sounds like her. Anyway, after Elliot agreed, my dad and yours wanted to talk to me privately. To put it bluntly, they asked which title I was going to succeed."

Laura stiffened, her eyes narrowing to slits. "I thought we already had that worked out. Elise would take over in Ymir and let you follow your own path."

Rean leaned against the balcony railing, Laura putting more of her weight on him. "That's what we agreed, so long as Elise eventually got married. Mom and Dad were pretty lax about it, they just wanted to like the guy and spoil their grandkids. Problem is… well, she and Princess Alfin are a lot closer than any of us thought."

Rean felt Laura go limp. "Wait… what do you mean?"

Rean almost smiled, ruefully wondering how Laura still couldn't pick up on these things. "They're lovers Laura, and they're very physically intimate."

Laura's arms fell away, Rean looking back to see her staring at him in shock. "…Really? But, Princess Alfin flirted with you every time you were in the room with her and Elise had a crush on you so obvious even I could see it!"

"Everyone's going to bring that up today." Rean grumbled. "Look, with this happening, Elise can't become Baroness. I think it's some law passed back when Dreichel's was in power, but the idea is that the Imperial family can't grant land or titles to their lovers. Prevent favoritism and all that."

Laura crossed her arms and nodded. "I see… does that still change our plans?"

Rean shook his head. "No, no. We'll still ask Elise to be one of your bridesmaids. The question is whether or not Princess Alfin is going to force her way into this."

"Well we can't just turn her down." Laura chuckled. "And we can give this more thought after we get everything planned and done with."

She hugged him again, this time kissing his cheek. "Come on, we have a long day tomorrow and we need to talk to our attendants about their responsibilities."

Rean turned and kissed Laura, lingering until they parted. "Sounds good… but I think we need showers first."

Laura frowned before her face scrunched in disgust. "Quite… I'm amazed our guests never commented on it."

Rean shrugged before pulling Laura close. "I'm sure Fie wants to tease us up and down about it tomorrow. Let's get clean first ok?"

Laura smirked and pushed off of him. "I'll take first shower. Mind making sure all our things are in order?"

Rean rolled his eyes. "Yes-yes, I'll get on it. The day you don't need help with the hairdryer is the day all of Zemuria rolls into the sea."

Laura smacked him on the arm before striding off into the bathroom. Rean shook his head after hearing the door click, looking out to the clear sky.

Elise, you and I are going to have a long talk when I see you next.

The parents and friends left two days later, everyone promising to start the preparations in two weeks' time. The only reason Victor wasn't staying was because he needed to fly Prince Oliviert off to some far-flung destination once again.

Shortly after they left, another train pulled into the station. It was a good deal different than the normal trains though, being dyed crimson and stamped with the imperial heraldry. Out of the train walked a small throng of people numbering ten in total.

Two were blonde, two had blue hair, two were brunettes, one had magenta hair, one had black hair, and the last two had silver and green hair respectively. Only two men were among the group, one in a blue suit with a white under shirt while the other had blue robes with white lines weaved in, a dragon shaped belt at his waist.

The rest were women, wearing a variety of dresses ranging from crimson to white and yellow. The blonde in crimson gladly took the lead, skipping out of the station as the others followed.

"So Elise," the crimson clad woman began. "Are you finally going to tell your brother?"

The woman with dark hair sighed. "Princess, I've told you a dozen times that such a thing does not concern them. We're here to congratulate them and see if we'll be needed for the ceremony, nothing more."

Alfin giggled and looked to the eldest member of the group. "What do you think, Ms. Sara? Will any of us actually get to be part of such a momentous occasion?"

Sara scratched her head. "Not too sure, Your Highness. I just want to give my kudos and get back to work."

She looked to the rear of the group. "Not sure how the Orion siblings and Claire found the time to come down though. Didn't Lechter get you in trouble last month?"

Claire shook her head. "He swore to get us out of work this week to make up for it. Besides, Millium wouldn't be quiet about coming to give her congratulations. Altina wanted to come too, though we all know she'll never say it."

Her eyes went to the two girls, Millium glancing around excitedly while Altine hugged a square box to her chest. "No summoning your dolls either. If either of you break something, I won't save you from Laura."

The duo went ramrod straight, making the group chuckle. The other blonde looked over the town herself, wondering at how clear it was. "When's the last time the lake was clear again?"

"I believe is was three months ago," the man in robes answered. "We were there for that, right Alisa? Something about testing a new orbal boat."

Alisa smacked the side of her head. "Right-right. That was a fun time, eh Machias?"

Machias glared at her, adjusting his glasses out of habit while he tried to set her on fire with his eyes. "Quite. I'd never been so sick in my life."

The woman at his side squeezed his hand. "Come on dear, you had fun. Besides, that was Angie's fault and you know it."

Machias shook his head, squeezing his wife's hand as well. "How Gaius got roped into it, I'll never know. Nor how he was able to stay standing."

The man in question shrugged off the question. "I needed to see if it could help the tribe reach better fishing. Considering how noisy it was, it could only be a luxury."

Alisa slugged her boyfriend's arm. "Oh be quiet Gaius. You were super happy when I brought you guys the trucks."

"Which we paid for." Gaius reminded. "Along with our tickets here until her Highness decided to drag all of us onto the Eisengraf."

Alfin pouted, a laugh in her eyes. "See if I ever show the saviors of Erebonia any respect again. Now come on, we got people staring!"

She grabbed Elise by the hand and pulled the struggling girl along, the rest of the group following at a more sedate pace.

For most, it was their first time in the sleepy lakeside town. The presence of the Eisengraf and the Imperial Princess made it a little less than sleepy, the gawkers around them proved as much, but it was still a relaxing stroll up to the villa.

Unless your name was Elise Schwarzer.

She'd been writing to her brother, as always, but she'd resolved to tell him in person about her newest relationship. The problem was, she wasn't sure how he was going to take the news that said relationship was with the Princess herself.

The nerves were enough to make her physically ill, her stomach doing backflips the closer they got to the villa's door. "M-maybe we should come back later, surely they're busy!"

Alfin would have none of it. "Nope, we're all going in there and celebrating! I heard that your brother and Lady Laura's butler make some of the best pizza and tea this side of the Empire and I refuse to leave without trying it!"

By then, the rest of their group had long passed them by. Alisa reached the door first and raised a fist to knock, only for the door to open and her fist to hit Laura square on the forehead.

Laura was nonplussed. "Hello everyone, glad to see you could make it."

"Oh geez!" Alisa cried. "I'm sorry Laura!"

Laura waved off the concern. "It's no issue. Come in, Klaus already has tea going."

She opened the double doors and greeted her friends as they walked by, Emma and Millium giving her hugs while Altina handed the package she held to Laura with a small smile. Machias and Gaius shook her hand as they passed and Sara handed her a wrapped mug.

Claire gave the most sensible greeting, a simple wave and congratulations.

Finally, Laura felt herself bow out of habit as Alfin finally dragged Elise through the door. Alfin was too busy yanking her lover into the house, but she smiled at Laura nonetheless.

Once everyone was situated around the table, Machias pointed out the elephant in the room. "Where's our intrepid leader? Did he get cold feet seeing the Princess?"

"No-no," Laura said. "He got roped into helping replace the inn's wall. Believe it or not, you just missed our parents along with Fie, Elliot, and the old wind Orchestra."

Alisa groaned. "Let me guess, Mint?"

"She's your engineer." Gaius chuckled. "Mint may have a way with machines, but damn if she never does better than break even."

Alfin pouted. "Well that's too bad! I would have given them a lift too, but it was an ordeal getting Father and Mother to let me use the Eisengraf. It was only after I got Ms. Reinford over there on board that they agreed."

Laura inclined her head. "I appreciate the sentiment, Your Highness."

Emma spoke up for the first time. "Not to ruin the mood, but how's Valimar? I didn't see him while we were walking up."

"Valimar's fine." Laura sighed. "He's been acting as an aide to several historians over in Heimdallr when George isn't trying to figure out his armor."

She looked around her friends before sighing. "Alright, now that we've gotten that out of the way, let's hear them."

Questions and offers of help damn near drowned her, everyone offering something or other. Laura did her best to answer each question in turn, but it didn't slow down until Rean came back.

"Man, that took longer than I thought." Rean groaned as he walked through the door. "Even with the help we got after Mint took down the wall, I didn't think getting all the outer panels on would be so much work."

He paused at the sound of voices, recognizing his old friends easily. "Oh, that was fast. Then again, everyone was saying a crimson train had pulled into the station."

Sighing at the inevitability of the talk to come, Rean meandered to the living room and peeked inside. "Yo, good to see you guys."

Gaius was the first to see him. "Rean, good to see you! Come to save your fiancée from your well-meaning but overbearing friends?"

Rean laughed, waving to everyone as they turned to face him. "Yes and no. I'm assuming you've all buried Laura alive with your questions, so I'm hoping we can go ahead and start asking our own."

Emma giggled. "Go right ahead. I think we've asked everything we can right now."

Rean nodded, but had to duck as Millium flew at him. "Reany! Come on, let me hug you!"

She jumped and hopped at Rean from every imaginable angle, the black-haired man dodging deftly every time. After a few minutes of this, Altina and Claire wrangled Milliun back onto the couch and apologized to Rean.

Rean waved the apologies away and sat beside Laura. "Alright, since we have you guys here, we'll ask you the same questions we've asked everyone else."

Laura went first. "Millium, Altina, we'd like you to be my train bearers. We understand that you're both a little older than traditional bearers, but you both fit the role well."

Milium leapt from the couch, fist in the air. "You bet your buns I'll do it! I actually get to do something!"

Altina tilted her head. "Are you sure? We could do something else if you like."

"No, we'd like you to do this." Rean answered. "The closest one we could ask is Denny, but she's barely a toddler. We also want every Seven to have an active role in the ceremony, no matter how small."

Altina bowed in her seat. "Then I accept. We will do all we can to help outside of that as well."

"You bet ya!" Millium crowed. "I need to tell Lammy too, come on Alty, we need to go outside!"

The excitable girl grabbed Altina's arm and raced outside, leaving the others in varying states of amusement.

Laura cleared her throat. "Moving on. Emma, Alisa, I'd like to ask you both to join Monica, Paula, and Fie as my bridesmaids. It pains me to let you down, but I've already asked Fie to be my Maid of Honor."

"Ah, it's fine." Alisa assured. "I was the Maid of Honor at Ferris's wedding; I don't need to do it again."

Emma giggled. "Same with me. I don't want to be in charge of so much anyway."

Laura breathed a sigh of relief before looking to a nervous Elise. "Elise, I want to ask you to be one of my bridesmaids as well. You're going to be family when the time comes and I want to make sure you're a part of it."

Her gaze grew flat as she turned to face an expectant Alfin. "Regretfully, I can only offer you the spot of a guest, Your Highness."

When Alfin gasped in shock, Rean took over. "Your Highness, do you really think we're going to let you and that mischievous streak anywhere near Laura's bridal party?

Alfin put on a pout, but Rean could tell he had won. "On the bright side, we would gladly have you help with the decorations. You have a wonderful eye for detail after all, we just ask that you don't go overboard."

Alfin seemed pleased by the offer, a nod showing her agreement, while Elise shook her head. "I… I don't know. All of your bridesmaids have been close friends, but I didn't know you until a couple years ago."

Laura smiled at her. "And we've done much together in that time. I want you as a part of the ceremony and so does Rean. Will you at least give it some thought?"

Elise nodded and stood, Alfin doing the same. "I will. Would it be alright if I go to the lake for a little while?"

Rean and Laura smiled and gestured to the back door. Elise bowed shallowly before striding for the door, Alfin jogging after her.

Once they were gone, Rean heaved a sigh. "I'm going to need to speak with her tonight. Hope you guys don't mind if I can't have a beer later."

Sara barked a laugh. "The fact you finally have beer is enough to make this trip worth it!"

She crossed her legs and grinned. "So, what's my job supposed to be?"

Laura chuckled before standing and moving over to Sara's side. The older woman gazed at her curiously, not understanding the strange twinkle in her student's eye as she sat next to her.

"Instr-no, Sara." Laura began. "I would like you, in light of everything you've done for us over the years we've known you, to take on the role of my mother."

Sara's jaw dropped, not expecting that. "…Say again?"

Laura laughed alongside her friends and fiancée, warm eyes locked on Sara. "I mean what I said. My mother is no longer with us, but you've filled that role admirably in a time I did not believe I needed one. It would be a great honor to both myself and Rean if you would take on the responsibilities tied to being Mother of the Bride."

Sara mentally backpedaled. "N-n-now wait a second! I'm not that old, and I didn't do that much! I can't just take on that role, it'd be an insult to your family!"

Laura shook her head. "Sara, I asked my father last night. He was all for it and I can't think of anyone else who I'd rather ask. Please, for us?"

Sara cast her gaze around for a sympathetic face, but every one she saw said the same thing.

Tears welled in her eyes and she covered her face with her hands. "…Ok. Damn it all, I'll do it."

Laura pulled Sara into a hug while the others clapped. Rean, while Laura was trying to calm Sara down, turned to his guy friends. "Machais, Gaius, I'd like you to be part of my groomsmen. Elliot's the best man, but I'm pretty sure you guys didn't want that responsibility anyway."

"Got that right," Machias snorted. "I had a hell of a time with Jusis as was, I don't want to do that again."

Gaius smirked. "Yeah, I don't have the time to learn the customs by the date you set. Good call with Elliot."

Rean nodded at them. "I forgot to ask, how's the leg?"

"As well as it can be." Gaius said, a dull clang ringing through the air when he smacked his leg. "Alisa and Linde have been a big help on keeping it up to date."

Machias groaned. "Remind me to tell you how news of orbal prosthetics was taken in the office, it was an uproar fit to drown a Hippogriff."

Alisa wrapped an arm around Gaius's shoulders. "Oh, I know. I was there to give the presentation, may I remind."

Emma leaned into Machias. "And I had to bring you food since you got locked in there trying to keep everyone calm."

Machias grumbled something about wild cats before Laura returned to her seat. "You finally calm down instructor?"

Sara wiped at a stray tear and blew her nose on a hanky. "You get something like that popped on you, see if you don't cry."

The room had another laugh at her expense before all eyes turned to Claire. She noticed the looks, of course, but had to wonder aloud. "What exactly is my job?"

Rean and Laura shared smiles before Ran answered. "We're asking if you can coordinate everyone. We know you're busy, but if there's a way you can keep everyone in contact, that would be great."

Claire nodded. "Easy, I can grab a group transceiver from the storage hold at base. I'll send you all the signal frequency when it's set up here. I'll relay decisions made here through the main switch board so everyone's up to speed."

Rean sighed in relief. "Thank Aidios. Now that we have that out of the way, I think I'll go talk to my sister. She heard of my relationship with Laura from my own mouth so I'd hoped she'd tell me she got with the Princess in person."

He went out the back and awkward silence descended on the rest. Emma eventually broke the silence. "How did he find out?"

Laura sighed. "His father told him and he told me. We're happy for them, but Rean's not exactly ok with Elise hiding it from him after all the lectures she gave him on being more open with her."

Gaius hissed through his teeth. "That wasn't a good choice on her part."

Sara shook her head. "What choice did she have?"

She looked towards the door, a frown wrinkling her face.

"It was either tell her brother or risk ruining her lover's life."

-Rean-

Elise and Alfin were sitting on the villa's private dock, neither speaking as Rean walked up to them.

"Your Highness." Rean began. "I need to speak with my sister privately. May we have your leave?"

Alfin sighed and stood, curtsying to Rean before making her way back to the villa. The siblings remained silent for a time, both listening to the sound of the waves as Ellise built up her courage.

"So," Rean breathed. "You and Alfin huh? Gotta say, never saw that happening."

Elise was silent so Rean continued. "Really, I'm happy for you. I was always a little afraid that I'd have to do the whole song and dance with being your older brother, but I know Alfin's a good person."

He frowned. "It's not just a… passing thing, is it?"

Elise glared at him, but the heat dissipated quickly. "I… I don't think so. I've been friends with Her Highness for years and it just sort of… happened."

She looked back to the lake. "Honestly, she just up and kissed me out of the blue when that storm with Oroborous settled down. Confessed to me right then and there that she'd tried to deny what she felt by flirting with you. It was a lot to take in…"

Rean sighed and took a seat next to her. "I can imagine. I'm just wondering why you decided not to tell me when you actually started dating the Imperial Princess. Oh, and Dad told me you two are pretty intimate at that."

Elise mumbled a foul curse, making Rean laugh, before turning to her brother. "Honestly, I was afraid. I know it's hypocritical of me, especially since I've told you to not be afraid so many times, but this went beyond me."

She frowned. "Her Highness has been very adamant in turning down any suitors that have come calling for her. The Emperor and Empress have been accepting of this since Cedric will succeed the throne and it removes the idea of a succession crisis this generation. It doesn't stop the upper nobility from whispering though, even if Her Highness is considered a national treasure."

Rean clicked his tongue. "Ah, so you wanted to do what made your lover's life as easy as possible. Ok, guess that's the end of that discussion."

Elise blinked. "What? That's it, no impassioned speech about the bonds of family or trust between siblings?"

Rean glared at her. "I gave up giving speeches when I moved down here. I've had enough getting poked at for my word choice."

Elise blinked before smiling and standing up, dusting off her skirt and standing beside her brother. "You really are acting your age. Who's to say you even need me as a bridesmaid?"

Rean laughed and hooked his arm around his sister, walking back to the villa where his friends and fiancée waited. "Trust me, we'll need you."

"You'll be the only one with a lick of sense for the next few months."

Part 1 of 3: End

After looking at this word count, I decided to whack the wedding and prep leading up to it into three parts. This one detailed the roles different members would be taking while giving a glimpse into the other characters lives.

As for Alfin and Elise, since I know people will ask, the subtext of their reactions can be read in either direction as friends or potential lovers. As Rean is taken, obviously, I felt that it could work in those circumstances. Oh, and Patrick got married to Ferris, that's why he's not immediately available as he's dealing with his family lands alongside other such things. They sent a letter though!

If anyone has other questions, just ask! Otherwise, I hope you'll look forward to Part 3, since we have bachelor/bachelorette parties to plan and all kinds of shenanigans leading up to the big day!

See you next time!