Tatsumaki's head was already fuzzy. She knew she shouldn't have drunk so much, but it was long past too late. Her sister was looking just as buzzed, her cheeks flushed and a big smile on her face. The two of them had already gotten food, from a great Italian place, before going back to Fubuki's house, where surprise surprise, Fubuki had set up decorations, colorful streamers, balloons, and even had a cake ready. Atop the cake in white frosting it read FOR MY LOVELY SISTER, WIFE-TO-BE. It was more like a goofy birthday party than a bachelorette one, but it was almost enough to make Tatsumaki cry. Since then, the two of them had sat down and drank on the couch, talking and watching television. It was calm, it was quiet, and there weren't a lot of people around. To Tatsumaki, that was perfect.

She giggled as she swirled her wine down in her glass. It was pale and bubbly, just like herself. Tatsumaki drank it down, her chest burning in the aftermath.

"My big sister is getting married!" said Fubuki, stretching her arms out into the air. She had a single big glass next to her, streaks of red sliding down the side. Hiccuping, she lowered her hands back down onto her hips. "And I've never been prouder."

Tatsumaki smiled and dipped her head, embarrassed. Fubuki had even more to drink than she had.

"Thank you sis," said Tatsumaki. She leaned back into her seat, comfortably warm. "But what about you, do you have any plans?"

"I have some things in mind for Sycamore and I," said Fubuki. A few giggles escaped her mouth and she darted a hand up to her lips. "For the night after…"

"Oh really…"

"Yes, just a fun night to relax, and get close."

"Alright, you don't have to go into any more detail."

Fubuki chuckled.

"I won't," she said. "Though I'm sure you'll be getting plenty close with Secter, won't you sis?"

"Oh cut it out that's gross," said Tatsumaki.

"I'm just teasing."

"You and everyone else I know are just a bunch of perverts."

"We're pretty new to serious relationships, I think this is all new territory for us…"

"And?"

"Well…it's fun to finally joke around about this stuff! We never really did it before!"

"Alright alright. Sometimes."

Fubuki sighed and set a hand to her head. Like a massive tragedy had befallen upon her, she began to swoon from side to side.

"Oh I drank too much," said Fubuki. "This I'll feel in the morning."

"Same," said Tatsumaki. "Secter will help me through it though."

"He going to get a job soon?"

"…no."

"That's just because you don't want him to have one, huh?"

"I don't…"

"Sis…"

"Alright, he's applied to a number of places, but he's one of the saviors of the world and he's my husband, I want him to have a really good one! A place for him to be happy."

"Any good contenders?"

"A couple. Maybe."

"What's he want to do?"

"Construction, overseeing the world for some kind of protective force. Not really an HA but…like some kind of recon thing has been in talks. Rikuto and Mei are big in it, of course."

"Interesting…will need to look into that for my group, maybe me too…"

"I know I will."

"Is that what you want to do?" asked Fubuki.

"I…" Tatsumaki paused and set her hand on her chin, lightly grabbing it in thought. "I'm not sure. Never thought I'd see the day where I'd have to look at jobs like this, boring ones."

"You could make a good builder yourself sis. With your powers."

"Ugh," said Tatsumaki. "I mean, it's nice for people but just so…boring."

"What else will you do?"

"I'll worry about it after the wedding. For now, I focus on me and Secter. Maybe I'll…maybe I'll help with this whole recon thing, I don't know."

"It sounds interesting…I wonder…I wonder if Blue will be in touch with them."

"Said he was out roaming, looking for threats. Hope he beats up Blast."

Fubuki burst out laughing.

"Oh God," she said. "I forgot about that asshole…yeah he certainly deserved more of a beating, didn't he?"

"Yeah," said Tatsumaki. "But otherwise I forget about him. He's not a part of my life anymore."

"My good ol sis," said Fubuki. "Moved on from all that bad stuff."

"I try…" Tatsumaki stretched upwards.

"You know," said Fubuki. "Now that we're finally settling into our normal lives, there's almost not that much to talk about."

"There will always be stuff to do, trust me," said Tatsumaki. "And I don't know, what do you want to talk about?"

"Kids," said Fubuki. "Oh my God, kids. Are you-"

"No," said Tatsumaki, her face blossoming red. "I don't…I don't think I want kids."

"But sis!" said Fubuki. "It'd be so…so cute! I'd be an aunt! And that cat…that cat is totally a test to see how you two take care of something small, isn't it?"

"No…Secter just wanted a cat."

"Siiiiis…"

"Why not have kids of your own?"

"I don't know…I don't really plan to anytime soon…"

"Well neither do I. Though…Secter would make a great father. He'd be a really sexy dad."

Fubuki giggled and wiped at her face.

"He'd be an amazing father," said Fubuki. "And you, a fantastic mother. Think about it."

"I have, and I've decided I don't want any anytime soon. Though…I'm open to talking about it to Secter again sometime in the future."

"Again?!"

"Sis, we're getting married, looking at careers. Of course we've talked about it."

"What did he say?!"

"He's…open on the subject. Definitely not against it. But also says he thinks we should wait, which I agree."

"Ohhh alright alright."

"You sound disappointed sis," said Tatsumaki as she raised an eyebrow.

"I am…" said Fubuki. "You guys would have the most adorable kids."

"Oh quit it, you're starting to convince me."

"Yes! Go have kids!"

Tatsumaki waved her sister away.

"I don't even know if I have the body for that," said Tatsumaki. "And like I said, not anytime soon."

"Yeah you would need to be checked by a doctor…but still, I'm sure it could work out."

"Well…" said Tatsumaki. "What about you then sis?

"What about me?"

"Any…romantic or family plans?"

"Well…" said Fubuki. "I'm early in my relationship with Sycamore. And I will say…it does give me pause sometimes, to think that I…you know."

"What?"

"Might have an alien husband if it ever got that far. Or an alien father."

"I was wondering about that, can Soulless have kids?"

"They can, but they can't have children that are Soulless. So…no Soulless kids, they'd just all look human."

"That's a bit sad."

"Yeah, I guess it means the Soulless will die out one day," said Fubuki.

"Would the kids get any traits from Sycamore?"

"I don't think so? I haven't asked, though Sycamore has mentioned he has a human form he's used before, maybe they'll take traits from that?"

"He has a human form huh…" said Tatsumaki. "Do you…you know, make him use it for when you…"

"No," said Fubuki. "I actually like how he likes quite a bit. Was…unsure at first, but he grew on me. Especially his chest, mmm that chest."

"Yeah Secter's is great too," said Tatsumaki. "But…I think it might hurt him a bit, to know you feel that way."

"It's not like a big hesitation," said Fubuki. "Like I said, our relationship is still early anyways, so this would all be hypothetical. And I…it's just…"

"Odd to think about, I get it."

"It's not that I dislike his appearance, or him, not at all, it just makes me stop and think, about the crazy path my life has gone down…but it's a good thing!"

"You think so?"

"I know so."

"Good."

Tatsumaki rocked back and forth, trying to get the drunken fog out of her head. It did nothing to alleviate her tipsiness, and Tatsumaki fell backwards into the couch.

"He probably worries about it," said Fubuki. "I can understand why it might be hard for him, even after all the time we spent together, and me getting intimate with him…"

"I'm guessing you have more planned for after the wedding."

"Oh do I," said Fubuki. "I'll make him feel loved."

"You two are a good fit," said Tatsumaki. "I hope it leads to something more."

"We'll just have to wait and see."

They chatted away and later, Fubuki stumbled into the kitchen to retrieve the cake once more. Though they started eating normally at first, Fubuki got the bright idea to launch a tiny slice into Tatsumaki's face with her powers. She barked laughter as she saw the white icing slide down Tatsumaki's forehead and onto her cheek, and was shortly treated to half of the cake flying into her face and dress. Tatsumaki grinned in victory as Fubuki giggled and cleaned herself up, the two of them still too tipsy to care about the mess.

Later on, after the two of them had begun to sober up and had either wrapped up or eaten what was left of the cake, Sycamore and Secter arrived to meet their loved ones. Tatsumaki hugged Secter tight while Sycamore wandered over to Fubuki to kiss her, Fubuki pushing his face into hers and giggling all the way. Soon after Secter and Tatsumaki said their goodbyes and left, the two of them walking down the street. Tatsumaki grew tired of the effort and flew up behind Secter's back for him to carry her, to which Secter demanded a toll of a single kiss for the work. Tatsumaki grabbed the back of his head and made out with him for almost a minute, standing out in the street near a streetlight as they kissed. With Secter giggling, she kissed him a second time, then a third, before finally getting back on his back and letting him carry her home, nearly falling asleep on the way. The wedding was near, and Tatsumaki dreamed of it even before she went to bed that night.

. . .

"No no, in the main hall!" said Sycamore to a group of clueless blue-jumpsuited workers. Each one held the end of a banquet table, a dozen feet in length. As they shuffled past Sycamore, who jerked his thumb towards a grand room behind him, Sycamore sighed. Everything was on a tight schedule, didn't they know that?

He strode out into the lobby, a cozy yet exquisite room with wooden logs standing in all four corners and an ornate red rug in the center of the room. The entire place had a comfortable feel to it, not totally lavish like Sycamore's old suite but just nice enough to pass for the lounging place of well-to-do families. Many heroes and citizens had sent in gifts and donations for the wedding, which, like the food, invitations, and decorations, Sycamore had to take care of.

At least for the most part, that was. Fubuki had a hand in making sure everything was being delivered on time, and had helped Sycamore pick out the food as well. For the past few days her and him were practically living in the resort, setting things up, hiring cooks, and planning out the activities for the day. A few times they stopped to take a break near the gazebo where Secter and Tatsumaki were to be wed, overlooking a lake that shimmered yellow in the sunlight. The sun shone through the triangular patterns in the wood of the gazebo, illuminating the white paint and soaking the nearby lawn in a warm orange glow. Though Sycamore wasn't into the décor of the location, he had to admit the outdoor patio was spectacular.

He gazed at it from a nearby window, watching the sun start to dip beyond the horizon. Part of him wanted to venture out there, his brain already fried from the stress of planning everything out for one of the most important days of his life. Had to make sure the food was cooked properly, the guests and staff were on time, definitely had to scare away any hecklers or paparazzi, already had plans to keep Koros away from the alcohol…

And of course, the speech. He was not only the best man, but had also got himself certified to grant legal marriages, so he was going to combine both talks into one up at the gazebo. Granted, he had plans to talk during the reception too, but at least that would be more off the cuff.

Sycamore rubbed his temples. His head pounded away. Turning from the main lobby he headed back into the main hall, where a series of tables were set up, all of them covered by white cloth with tiny pale flower patterns at the edges. The chandeliers of glass were shining bright, the twin doors out into the outdoor patio where the fifty or so chairs were arranged allowed for the sun to wash into the room, and Sycamore tilted his head to gaze upon his hard work. So far, so good.

"Sycamore!" came a voice from the end of the room.

Sycamore perked up, his heart beating faster at the sound. He turned to see Fubuki walking towards him, adorned in her usual black dress.

"Everything looks good," said Fubuki. "Still worrying?"

"Of course I am," said Sycamore. "What if the meals don't get prepared right? What if the snacks spoil? What if guests are late? What if Koros pulls something stup-"

Fubuki leaned up and placed a finger to his lips. Sycamore's heart slammed into his spine.

"Shhh," said Fubuki. "It'll be ok, I promise."

"I know. I just worry."

Fubuki dragged her finger down from his lips to his chin, then poked her fingertip into his collarbone. Sycamore watched her do it, entranced.

"You've got a lot on your shoulders," said Fubuki. "But you're doing great."

"Thank you love," said Sycamore. "And I guess I shouldn't worry too much. Secter and Tatsumaki were fairly simple with what they wanted, so there's not even too much that could go wrong…"

"What are you most worried about?"

"Hecklers, I guess. I mean truthfully, most problems could be solved by using powers but…I don't really want to startle Secter like that when he's at the altar."

"Yeah…I understand that."

Sycamore pulled his hands behind Fubuki's back and pushed her into him. Fubuki rubbed his sides and leaned up so her lips were but a few inches from his.

"But you're doing great and I'm sure everything will be fine," said Fubuki. "I can't wait to see you in your suit…"

"Heh," said Sycamore. "And you in your dress…oh, this is going to be one of the best days of our lives Fubuki!"

"It will," said Fubuki. "Sweetheart…" She kissed him, ignoring the surprised stares of a few workers near the kitchen. Sycamore kissed her back, holding her head into his.

They made out, Fubuki's chest turning hot as she pushed herself against Sycamore's body. When she released herself from his lips, she smiled up at him.

"Maybe one day we'll have something like this too," said Fubuki.

Sycamore blushed and turned his head down towards the ground, as if to hide his expression from Fubuki. She chuckled at him in response.

"I…I would like that," said Sycamore.

"Well, all you have to do is keep being you," said Fubuki.

Sycamore straightened up and stared at Fubuki at a moment, which puzzled her. Then, he swept Fubuki into his arms, and swiveled towards the twin doors to the gazebo.

"Uh, Sycamore?" asked Fubuki. She started to laugh as he jostled her forward. "Where are you taking me?"

"Outside," said Sycamore. "I wanted to show you the view."

"I've seen it before…"

"I know, but it's beautiful and you're beautiful and I want to be out there with you."

Fubuki kissed Sycamore on the neck as he headed through the twin doors, past the rows of folding chairs, and out to the top of the hill just before where the earth sloped down in a field of grass towards the lake. He set Fubuki down and looked at her.

This look was not the ordinary one, but one that poured love and affection from every inch of his expression. It told Fubuki "what you just said to me moved me to my very soul, and I adore you," to which she replied by leaning up, pulling Sycamore's head into hers, and kissing him so deep that her cheeks turned sore from all the movements of her lips.

When they separated, she gave him a sultry look, one of devotion and attraction. Her smile radiated love, and Sycamore couldn't help but shiver a little.

"Tomorrow," said Fubuki. "Tomorrow's the day."

"Not just for us," said Sycamore. "For them."

"The start of the rest of our lives."

"And it's gonna be wonderful Fubuki, just you wait and see."

"I know it will."

Inside, the finishing touches were placed on the decorations, and the rest of the food was put away. All of the gifts had been investigated, sorted through, and hidden away from the bride and groom for tomorrow. Guests had instruction sheets and invitations, and Tatsumaki and Secter had already been cleared for where to go. Everything seemed in order, and while Sycamore still felt the tiny hands of nerves tugging at his brain, Fubuki relaxing into his shoulder to watch the waves with him steered the worry away.

. . .

It was the next day. The day. Fubuki was giddy with excitement, already having slipped on her bridesmaid's dress and standing in the corner of the makeshift fitting room of the hotel where her sister was to be wed. Tatsumaki was behind a changing curtain, a flowery-patterned folder of standing fabric to hide her from any wandering eyes. In this case, only Fubuki was in the same room as Tatsumaki, but she was beyond excited to see what was soon to come.

"Need any help over there sis?" asked Fubuki. Her heart pounded.

Say yes, say yes, I want to see you smiling in that dress! she thought. In truth she'd see her sister in a moment anyways, but it was just too much to wait.

"No I'm fine," said Tatsumaki. "I can get the back with my powers."

"Ah…"

"Relax, I'll be out in a second."

"You're smiling aren't you?"

"…of course I am."

Fubuki clasped her hands together and let out a tiny squeal. She could hear a chuckle from behind the folder.

"How excited are you right now?" asked Fubuki. "Because seriously like, I can only imagine."

"It's…hard to describe," said Tatsumaki. "Like…for the longest time, I knew he was the one, but I just didn't know when we'd get married. Since, you know, we just kept having bad things happen, but then it finally cleared up…"

Silence. Fubuki leaned forward, as if expecting Tatsumaki to whisper her next words.

"And now it's finally happening," said Tatsumaki. Her voice was tiny, choked by the threat of tears. "Finally, I get to marry the man I absolutely love. My heart…my heart is going so fast right now, but my head's clear, like I've been expecting this for the longest time but I'm still so excited for it. When I see him up there…I'm going to cry sis, it's going to be really hard to keep it together. We're going for a normal life now, this feels like the first big step for us together. Secter and me."

"You're going to be husband and wife sis," said Fubuki. "I'm so, so happy for you. You deserve all the best in the world, you and Secter both, and you're going to get married, I'm around to see you get married…" Fubuki trailed off, wiping her eyes.

"There's going to be a lot of crying today, isn't there?"

"Yeah. I'm already tearing up."

"Me too."

With a little sigh, Tatsumaki rounded the folder and came into full view of Fubuki. She looked just as beautiful as before, with her eyes slightly reddened and a big smile on her face. Her expression was gushing with love.

"Sis," said Fubuki. "You look amazing."

"So do you," said Tatsumaki. "You ready?"

"Yeah," said Fubuki. "You haven't seen the ring, right?"

"Not until it's brought up."

"Think he made a good pick?"

"He's a goof but he has good taste. He made a good pick."

"Is he already out there?"

"He should be soon at least. I just got my dress on!"

"Oh, do you want help with makeup or anything?" Fubuki grew giddy at the thought.

"I don't want much…"

"Alright, just a bit then. Come on! I'll help you out."

Tatsumaki grumbled as she followed Fubuki into the bathroom, but quit her irritated noises once she caught a glimpse at her sister's beaming face. She couldn't possibly stay unhappy when seeing her like that. Her being so joyous made Tatsumaki almost burst at the seams with glee. One day, Tatsumaki would be in a bridesmaids dress for her sis, and it just made her all the more hopeful for the future.

Just a few halls and doors down, Secter straightened the edges of his suit, Sycamore looking him over for any stray pieces of lint or hairs on his shoulders and back. They too had their own room isolated from the rest of the world, only Secter and his best man standing in front of a row of mirrors. Secter stared at himself, his tired eyes, strong chin, and slicked back hair all targets of his attention.

"I can't believe you actually convinced me to do it," said Secter. "The most styling I give my hair would be running my hand through it after a shower."

"This is your wedding Secter!" said Sycamore. "Only going to happen for you once in your life! Tatsumaki might like your normal crazy hair, but it's a special occasion!"

"Well yeah," said Secter. "But it is our occasion. Still…I have to give it to you, I was curious and it turned out good."

Secter kept looking over himself, almost as thorough as Sycamore when it came to spotting even the most minor of problems. He couldn't believe it as he stared deeper into the mirror. This man, this man in front of him, was actually getting married. To his soulmate, no question about it. He had gone from being an absolute trainwreck to the happiest man in the world, and with no shortage of hardship he had gone through to earn that title. His eyes watering, Secter sniffed and glanced over at Sycamore as he straightened himself up.

"Not even a year ago," said Secter. "Not even a year ago, I was a complete mess. Just planet-hopping, waiting to die…"

Sycamore's eyes widened in shock.

"Then I found her," said Secter, turning back to the mirror. The world was a watery sheen through his eyes, rainbow colored and unfocused. "And look at me now. I'm really getting married, aren't I? I only…I only dreamed of this as a kid."

"That you are," said Sycamore. "And I can think of no better man who deserves it more than you."

"It's still so crazy to me. That not even seven or eight months ago, things were just…so much different than they are now. So much…worse. And then they changed so much in less than a year…it still baffles me."

"A lot of that good came from you…and Tatsumaki too."

"I know, I know. I'm not saying I miss the old times, or that I don't deserve what I have right now, it's just…"

Secter wiped at his eyes, the fabric of his suit brushing against his skin. It was rough to the touch, and as Secter lowered his arm, he hoped he wouldn't look too rough up at the gazebo as well.

"It's all so hard to take in when you think about it," said Secter. "I'm beyond happy now, and fuck I'm going to be so nervous when I'm up there…"

"Ah it won't be so bad!" said Sycamore. "Just be yourself, Tatsumaki loves that!"

Secter chuckled. He felt more at ease now.

"I mean yeah," said Secter. "But imagine if it was you up there and Fubuki coming down the aisle."

Sycamore froze for a second, his heart hammering in his chest as the briefest of visions crossed his mind. Fubuki in a white dress headed for him…

"You've got a point," said Sycamore. "Though, I feel that it's really only the first few seconds that you're nervous. Once you two make eye contact, and she heads down the aisle, you'll both feel totally at ease."

"I think you're right."

"And…going back to what you said earlier…" Sycamore sighed. "Yeah, it is all fast, isn't it? I was…a real piece of work when I first got here, but only a few months later and everything's changed. It's tough to wrap my head around a lot of the time, but honestly, I try not to worry about it. We're in a good place now, and it really feels like we've made it. Like we've both moved on from the Nothing and the worst stages of our lives into something really meaningful, something beautiful."

"Like our real lives are starting now," said Secter. "Everything prior was us figuring out who we really were and what we wanted, and even though we kept getting pushed down even after that, we still rose out on top."

"That's all that matters," said Sycamore. "No sense worrying about the past, you're getting married! Time to look to the future!"

Sycamore elbowed Secter, who gave him a small grin.

"Whatever plans they may be," said Sycamore. "New house, new job, maybe kids, I don't know…"

"I wouldn't mind being a father some day," said Secter. "It's Tatsu you have to convince."

"Hey that's your job," said Sycamore. "Though I imagine she'll just want to settle down and have fun for a while."

"That's the plan. And I'm guessing yours too?"

"Fubuki's mentioned some stuff for us…I'll go with her anywhere honestly."

Something slammed against the door. Sycamore jolted, turning around with eyes flaring.

"Who the hell…" he snarled. "I told everyone that the groom was in here and that he wasn't to be bothered!"

"Koros," said Secter. "Guarantee it's Koros. No one else would try opening the door like that."

"It…" said Sycamore. He sighed. "Yeah, you're right. You want me to let him in?"

"Alright alright," said Secter.

Sycamore grumbled as he strode over to the door, opening it to reveal a well-groomed and bright-eyed Koros in his suit. Sycamore gasped at seeing the man, shocked that Koros had actually gone so far as to put cologne on and shave his disheveled beard.

"You actually did what I recommended," said Sycamore. "Color me surprised."

"Yeah yeah," muttered Koros. "It's not that hard and this event is worth it so…"

Koros tilted his head to look past Sycamore and spot Secter standing over at the other end of the room. Pushing his way past an annoyed Sycamore, Koros spread his arms out.

"And there he is," said Koros. "Husband to be. Ready to be shackled for the rest of your life friend?"

"You do know that I can have you kicked out in a split second right?" asked Secter. He was only half-joking.

"Hey hey it's a joke," said Koros. "I'm kidding."

"Been behaving yourself?" asked Sycamore as he closed the door.

"You guys are treating me like a damned seven year old again," said Koros. "Give me some respect, I can act like an actual human being for one day."

"Is that right?" asked Secter.

"Yep," said Koros. "Helped security chase away some fuckin dipshits trying to get into the wedding to take photos."

"How bad is it out there?" asked Secter. "I uh…haven't checked the front entrance much."

"Well the fake date Sycamore gave out tricked some of those paparazzi bastards," said Koros. "But otherwise, the ones who got wise…well it's terrible. There were dozens of them sneaking around. You have to remember, we've got two of the saviors of the world getting married. Lot of people want to see you two."

"Ah…" said Secter. The idea was foreign to him, a mass of attention like an amorphous alien blob that was beyond his understanding. Never before had he received this kind of attention, and to be honest, he didn't really like it. Tatsu certainly wouldn't either.

Koros could read Secter's thoughts on his face. He smiled.

"But don't worry," said Koros. "We drove em off easily. Teleported most of em back, those who gave me lip got teleported into a random woman's bathroom in some building a couple of cities away from their work."

"Classy," said Sycamore. "But it'll do."

"Hey they're away and they ain't comin back," said Koros. "Last thing I fuckin want is some bastard interrupting the wedding with their shitty oversized flash camera."

"I appreciate it Koros," said Secter. "Thanks."

"Heh just doing my job," said Koros. "By the way, where's the ring? Haven't seen either of them."

"I've taken care of that," said Sycamore. "Rikuto will bring one, Mei the other. Will be a surprise for both groom and bride."

"I think she'll like it," said Secter. "I mean…it's simple, but she's not the super flashy type."

"She'll love it," said Sycamore.

"It comes from you man," said Koros. "She loves just about anything like that."

Secter's cheeks turned a thin shade of red. He scuffed one of his shoes on the carpet.

"God I love her," said Secter. "But in any case, is everything ready? Is it time for me to go up?"

"It should be close," said Sycamore. "Everything else is ready for the reception, all the guests are here and accounted for, and if the hecklers are taken care of, I can take you up there for the ceremony."

Secter took in a deep breath. This was it. His heart was pounding, he could've sworn that his armpits were a bit damp despite all the antiperspirant, and his arms were a little shaky. Nonetheless he took a step towards the door, the first step towards the rest of his life.

. . .

Secter had the unnerving task of standing up at the gazebo first, the guests already seated for the most part. Many of them talked amongst themselves, while a few gawked at the handsome man waiting up at the gazebo. He gave them some awkward smiles back, his mind too focused on waiting for Tatsumaki than anything else. Beside him, Sycamore stood, slowly beginning to understand Secter's anxiety as he waited for the bride and maid of honor.

Everyone was here. Bang sat next to Garou, both of them wearing sharp black suits and talking to themselves right next to a pouting Charanko. Saitama sat staring up at the sky, Genos right by his side. King, Metal Bat, and a wide variety of other heroes from all classes all waited for the bride to be. Fubuki's group and Zenko wondered how Tatsumaki and Fubuki would look in their dresses. On the right-hand row of seats sat two women Secter didn't recognize, but who Koros planted himself next to so he could speak to them.

All of them were here for him and Tatsu. Secter's face flushed and he looked down, his chest as warm as the summer air. Though some certainly looked more interested than others, at the end of the day they made the effort to be here, to get dressed up and come show their support for the happy couple.

"Lot of guests…" said Secter. "Nice to see."

"Yeah," said Sycamore. "All good people here."

"Where uh…where is Fubuki and Tatsu?"

"They should be out soon…" said Sycamore, keeping his gaze trained on the doors to the hotel. "I think they're escorting each other down the aisle."

"Aww."

"Yeah, it's cute."

One of the doors creaked open. The crowd went silent. Secter turned to a block of ice in his spot. She was coming, his heart could barely handle it.

Sycamore let out a tiny "oh!" before shutting his mouth. Everyone else turned to stare at the doors.

Fubuki came first. She was stunning, radiating beauty as always, her dress swirling up her body. Beaming at everyone who was looking at her, she extended her hand into the open door and started to pull out a pale, slender arm.

Sycamore leaned forward, overtaken by Fubuki's beauty. She was a gorgeous angel sparkling with happiness, a being brought down to earth to bring joy for all even if for just a moment. He started to sweat underneath his coat, knowing full well he'd never be able to compete with someone like her in radiance.

"She looks amazing…" whispered Secter to Sycamore.

Sycamore nodded. "Here comes your wife…"

Secter stiffened, his excitement doubling over as Tatsumaki finally started to come into view. She took a soft step onto the red rug leading to the gazebo, her hair drifting over her ears and forehead. For a moment, her face was half-obscured by the shadows cast by the afternoon sun, but then she looked up at Secter and their eyes met.

They smiled. Secter loved that smile.

Her dress was gorgeous, perfect for her. The way it showed off her shoulders, how it twisted up her body like a tornado, the pretty patterns at the bottom…all beautiful. But like usual, Secter's eyes were brought to her face, her spectacular eyes and the way they pushed her love for him straight into his soul. The little smile on her face, just a bit smug but happy and caring all the same. Her expression was one of sheer adoration for him, of burning love and joy, that the day she had been waiting for so long was finally here, and her love was right in front of her.

Tatsumaki wrapped her arm around Fubuki's elbow and the two of them began their walk, marveled at by all the people seated around them. Fubuki had tears in her eyes, and Sycamore had to look away, starting to cry himself.

Koros had to hold back his excitement, nearly jumping out of his seat to start yelling his support for the couple.

Tatsumaki headed down the aisle slowly, every step as meticulous as a carver making a sculpture of some grand cathedral. Secter was gushing with pride, waiting for her up at the gazebo.

They made their way down, finally arriving at the edge of the gazebo. Secter was shivering despite the heat, his excitement ricocheting like bullets through his body. Tatsumaki stepped up to him, and the two met eyes. Lost in one another, Secter and Tatsumaki started to blur out the rest of the world as Sycamore stood over right beside them. Fubuki continued to cry softly, struggling to contain her sobbing.

"You look amazing Tatsu," said Secter. "Absolutely beautiful."

"And you look stunning," said Tatsumaki. "It looks great on you."

"Are you ready?"

"I am. I want this more than anything else."

"I do too."

Look at those damned two, thought Koros. This marriage is overdue, really.

Sycamore beamed with pride even as his arms started to shake. Most of the audience was paying attention to Tatsumaki and Secter, both of whom reached out to lock each others arms with their spouse's. Nonetheless, Sycamore's chest tingled with pain as some of the onlookers focused their attention on him. He didn't dare mess up a single word of the ceremony speech.

Sycamore pulled out a few notecards from his pocket, his hand shaking. Something touched his elbow, and Sycamore looked over to see Fubuki holding his arm, smiling with glimmering eyes. He shuddered, relaxing his shoulders down.

Man's gonna combine his best man and official wedding speeches, thought Koros. Efficient, but the pressure's on. Still, bet he's got this.

Sycamore cleared his throat, and stood up straight, like a soldier at attention. Everyone, even Secter and Tatsumaki, had their attention on him now. It was like a collection of burning stars all homed in on his position, hope pouring out from their souls to root for the happy people in front of them.

"Everyone," said Sycamore. "We're all gathered here today to show our support for our good friends, Secter and Tatsumaki. Two people who have had such a massive impact on all of us, and are now about to be happily married, the first step in what will be a long and amazing life for the both of them!"

Fubuki sniffed, silently wishing she could stop her tears so she wouldn't interrupt the speech. It was no use, between Secter and Tatsumaki standing in their wedding outfits, their arms locked and joy on their faces, and her sweetheart giving the big speech…it was simply too much.

Secter and Tatsumaki felt as if they were bathed in a warm glow, the only sound to penetrate their loving veil were the words of a nervous but excited Sycamore.

"We all wish the best for them," continued Sycamore. "They've truly touched our lives, and have gotten us through the worst of situations. Secter and Tatsumaki have changed my life, made Fubuki into such a happier person, and are such great friends to everyone here. Without them, none of us could say we would've made it to where we are now. So for that, we thank them. For being the best kind of friends anyone could ask for."

Tatsumaki gripped Secter's arms tighter. Her heart was through the roof.

Secter rubbed Tatsumaki's forearms, his eyes stinging at Sycamore's words.

"You two really do deserve all the best," said Sycamore. His mouth trembled as he went on, the emotions finally getting to him just like they had to Fubuki, Secter, and Tatsumaki. "Really. I want you both to be the happiest you can be, you've brought so much joy and stability and positive change to our lives, and you deserve all the cherishment and happiness in the world for that! This is the first big step for the rest of your lives for the both of you, and I can picture nothing but amazing memories to be made. You've already made so many."

Fubuki leaned and laid her haid on Sycamore's shoulder, muttering softly to him.

"It's so beautiful…" she whispered. Her voice was weak from the crying.

Sycamore chuckled. "You want to say something?"

"Can I?" asked Fubuki.

"Of course!" said Sycamore. "She is your sister after all…and your new brother."

Fubuki almost lost it at the word "brother." She stood upright, pulling herself close to Sycamore. After rubbing one of her eyes, she managed to gasp out some words.

"I…" said Fubuki. "Sorry, I'm a little choked up."

"It's ok," said Tatsumaki, trying to comfort her with a loving smile.

"Take your time," said Secter. He was melting in his spot, so overcome with joy that it could've started to pour rain down onto the gazebo and he wouldn't have noticed.

"I love you both," said Fubuki. "So, so much."

A few "aww's" from the crowd. Sycamore hugged Fubuki's side.

"You…" said Fubuki, still fighting against her tears. "You two both deserve so much, I want you to be so happy sis, and you too Secter, you're the best siblings anyone could ever ask for, and you've both done so much for me, helped me grow and change, and become so much happier as a person, and I've watched you two grow and get better too. We've all…we've all been through so much, so much hardship but so much joy and love at the same time, I know you'll both be there for each other for the rest of your lives, and I just want you to know…that I will too. Sycamore, and me, and everyone else. We're there for you."

Tatsumaki was crying now, and Secter had to narrow his eyes in an attempt to see through the water biting at his vision.

Koros wanted to shout his agreement, but reluctantly decided to keep his mouth shut. Instead he smiled and fought back his own tears.

"I'm so happy it's finally happening," said Fubuki. "Sis, you're the most amazing person I know, I can't imagine life without you and your smile and your support, and Secter, I'm beyond proud to have you as a brother, you've made my sis so happy and you're the kindest and sweetest soul in existence. You two deserve each other, you're an adorable, supportive, understanding, and just plain cute couple. This ceremony is for you both, it's about not just our love for you, but for your love for each other. One which I know will last forever and will never break. Good luck to you both…I…I can't wait to see you grow together, it really will be a great life for you two."

Sycamore beamed down at Fubuki as both Secter and Tatsumaki wiped at their eyes.

"That was beautiful Fubuki," said Sycamore. "And…I agree with all that she's said, I want to see you two grow and be happy, we'll always be there to support you, and if you need anything, and I mean anything, never hesitate to ask. I want to be as great a friend to you as you are to me, and with my best friends getting married…I want to make sure your life is as fantastic as the one you've helped me make is."

Sycamore sniffed, sighing as Fubuki rubbed his arm.

"But anyways!" said Sycamore. "I know I'm not the most official guy around, but let's bring out the rings, it's time for my best friends to be wed!"

From out of the main dining room of the hotel stepped Rikuto and Mei, dressed in a sharp black suit and a flowery white dress respectively. They carried a wooden box with a pillow-like casing inside, the fabric within a deep green hue. It sloped into two tiny hills of cloth, and at the top of each one sat a ring, too distant for Tatsumaki to make out any details of.

Rikuto and Mei stepped down the aisle, each one carrying the box in their arms. They strode down like a pair of parents walking their own children to an awards ceremony, heads held high and trying their best not to crack a massive smile.

Tatsumaki's heart began to beat faster and faster as the ring for her came into view. It was simple, gold with a swirled engraving on the inside. Atop was a circular emerald, blazing green in the sunlight.

"Ah…" said Tatsumaki, placing a hand to her chest. "Secter…"

"Like it?" he asked, smiling.

"I love it."

Secter was soaring.

Rikuto and Mei brought the rings up to the steps of the gazebo, and with a tiny, content sigh, Mei offered them up to the bride and groom.

Secter peered down at his ring, earlier trying to avoid looking at it as if trying to keep its appearance a surprise until the very end.

His too was simple, smooth and gold like Tatsumaki's, but Secter could make out something on the inside. As he reached out to take his, with Tatsumaki doing the same, she turned and smiled at him.

"I know it's simple looking but check the inside," said Tatsumaki. "I think you'll like it."

It's really cute, mouthed Mei to Secter. He giggled at seeing her silent sentence to him.

Tatsumaki and Secter retrieved their rings, and Mei and Rikuto bowed before retreating back to their seats. Secter turned the ring over so he could see the inside, and he could make out some writing within.

For my favorite dork, the love of my life

Secter choked up. He wrapped his fingers around the ring and enclosed it in his palm.

"I knew you'd like it," said Tatsumaki.

"You…you know me so well," said Secter. "Tatsu, I love it."

"Well, put them on!" said Sycamore. "You're husband and wife now!"

Secter and Tatsumaki both chuckled before slipping their rings on. Secter checked out how his glowed in the sun, while Tatsumaki had her eyes caught by the gem on the top.

"And any vows?" asked Sycamore. He was curious to hear, Secter had kept tight lipped on what he'd say.

Fubuki felt the same way – Tatsumaki had written them in secret after all.

"Of course," said Tatsumaki, her happiness reaching ethereal levels. She was on a new level of joy, one that, despite all the amazing things to happen in her life, she didn't think she had ever been on.

"Secter," she continued. "I swear to always keep you safe, to always make you happy, to wake up every day and dedicate all the love in my heart to you. No matter what happens, no matter what challenges we face, I will be with you, right by your side. We're here for each other, to support each other, until our very last day on Earth."

Secter was tearing up. Tatsumaki spoke to him as if they had already been married for decades, a reminder that they were destined for one another.

"I swear that I'll always listen to you," said Tatsumaki. "I know you'll love me back with everything you have, I want to hear every joke, see every little cute thing you do, be a part of your life forever. I swear that I'll always love you, Secter, you're the one for me."

Secter wasn't sure if he could top that. He'd sure as hell make it just as good.

"I'll love you forever too," said Secter. "I swear to do everything I can to make every day the best it can possibly be, anything you need, anything you want, I'll provide. I swear to be the best husband I can be, to give you everything I've got, to make a great life with you!"

Tatsumaki watched her favorite dork in the world with adoration in her eyes. God she couldn't get enough of him.

"I'll always love you," said Secter. "I know you'll love me too. I swear to make the rest of your life amazing and be there for you through the darkest and best of times, I love you, Tatsu."

Sycamore was trying hard not to tear up, while Tatsumaki had already done so. Still, there was a little more speech to deliver, and Sycamore had to power through.

"And with that," said Sycamore. "Secter, do you take Tatsumaki to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

"I do," said Secter, taking Tatsumaki's arms in his, the two never looking away from each other.

"And do you Tatsumaki," said Sycamore. "Take Secter to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

"I do," said Tatsumaki, squeezing his arms.

"Then with the power invested in me, and the love and support you have for one another and we all have for you, I pronounce you husband and wife!" said Sycamore. He threw his arms into the air, the final gesture of the grand ceremony.

Secter leaned over and swept Tatsumaki into his arms. She planted her hands on his chest, laughing at him as he kept his body arched over hers. For a moment, they stared into one another's eyes, drunken with love and adoration. This was their special day, the one they had been waiting for so long. It felt just how it should have, the two of them happy and in the arms of the person they loved most in the world. All they had gone through, all the ways they had changed into such new and different people, only to culminate in this. A ceremony of their love and dedication to one another, no matter the hardship that might come their way.

Tatsumaki loved it. Secter leaned in.

They kissed, pushing one another right into their lips. The crowd clapped and cheered, but Tatsumaki and Secter were too far away to hear. Tatsumaki poured all of her love into her kiss, moving her lips in rhythm to his, covering his tongue with her own. Secter pulled Tatsumaki closer into his body, letting her warmth overtake him even as he put every ounch of his passion into kissing his love. His wife.

As they finally began to separate, Fubuki kissed Sycamore on the cheek, laughing and crying at the same time. Sycamore raised his hands into the air.

"And it's official!" said Sycamore. "Bride and groom are now husband and wife! Let's hear it for the happy couple!"

More cheers and shouts. Secter blushed, trying to hide his smile. Tatsumaki only focused on him, smirking. From the look on her face, she must've been implying something more than kissing, as Secter turned even brighter red.

"My husband…" she said. "Sounds right."

"Your man," said Secter. "And you, my wife."

"Your love," said Tatsumaki. "Now get over here and kiss me again."

They kissed again, Tatsumaki not caring about all the attention. They were together, legally and by the bond they had formed over so much hardship and triumph. Nothing could ever break that, and they knew it.

After the vows, everyone headed inside and seated themselves in a rounded dinner table that stretched from one end of the hall to the other, coated in a white tablecloth. A few people stood up to speak, talking about how Secter and Tatsumaki were such inspirations to them, how they had brought them out of the hardships of Silan's reign, and in Koros's case:

"You damned two made me a better person," he said, while doing his damned best not to cry. "If it weren't for you Secter, I'd still be up in that void, probably dead. I aspire to be like you, and Tatsumaki, I wish I had your courage and strength. You helped get me in shape after the…garbage I pulled when I first got back here, you took it all and showed me how it was wrong, how I could get stronger. You two are the real definition of strength, and that's why your bond will never falter. You two better enjoy your life, because you have something that's beyond special. And by God, you both deserve it."

Secter teared up at such heartfelt words from Koros of all people. Fubuki had been crying almost nonstop, with a chuckling Sycamore having to dab at her eyes with a tissue every few minutes. Tatsumaki sat the most calm, but couldn't help but laugh or occasionally choke up at all the people who had come out to support her and her man.

Not long after came the reception dinner and the dancing. Fubuki had dragged Sycamore out on the floor to be the first couple to dance, Sycamore grinning from ear to ear as they moved in-sync to a beautiful classical ballroom rhythm. Every step of theirs was calculated and graceful, and Secter couldn't help but wonder how long the two had practiced beforehand.

Next up came Secter and Tatsumaki, who were initially more clumsy as they reached the ballroom floor, Tatsumaki stumbling a couple of times as she grew used to Secter's rhythm. Eventually the two became synchronized, and like Sycamore and Fubuki, swayed and moved their hips and arms together as one. Tatsumaki gripped onto Secter's back and held his hand tight into hers. Their fingers and bodies were entwined, inseparable and full of love for one another.

The night went on, people talking and laughing and congratulating the couple as warm air bathed the hotel for the evening. Secter and Tatsumaki went out to sit by the gazebo, passing by Fubuki and Sycamore as they went back down the aisle.

"Thank you so much," said Tatsumaki. "For everything."

"Seriously," said Secter. "Fubuki, Sycamore, you two did a fantastic job. I…" He started to choke up again, having lost count the number of times it had happened today. "I love you guys."

"I love you too…brother," said Fubuki, her throat constricting as she teared up.

"And you know I love you both," said Sycamore. "I…I'm just really glad you liked the ceremony, I'm so glad you're both happy…"

"I couldn't have asked for anything better," said Tatsumaki. "Everything from the ceremony, to the decorations, to the food…all fantastic."

"And," said Secter, giving Tatsumaki a little nudge. "There was one other thing."

"Ah right," said Tatsumaki. She raised her finger, which glowed green with psychic energy. At her command, a bouquet of purple lilies drifted down from the roof of the hotel and whooshed down to ground level, right in front of Fubuki.

Fubuki's eyes widened as she realized what the flowers meant. Giggling and blushing, she snatched them up in her hands.

"Sis!" she said. "You're supposed to throw this into a crowd…"

"Ah there's only one person who I want to see married next," said Tatsumaki. Winking, Tatsumaki pulled an arm behind Secter's back. "Just let us know if it ever gets to that point. We owe you one."

Fubuki and Sycamore glanced at one another, grinning. They leaned into each other, kissing deeply.

"The best sister and best friend anyone could ask for," said Secter. "Seriously, if there's anything you two ever need…"

They were almost too busy kissing to notice Secter's words. Fubuki had to stroke Sycamore across the face to distract him from making out with her to the fact Secter was talking.

"Mmph!" said Sycamore. "Yes, right! We…we'll keep that in mind."

"Well, we'll let you two get to it then," said Secter. He stretched his arms out, and within a second, the four of them were ensconced in a group hug, the love between the group the strongest it had ever been. As they separated to go opposite ways, Secter and Tatsumaki waved a quick goodbye to Fubuki and Sycamore, letting them know they'd join the reception again soon.

Fubuki and Sycamore headed back inside, joining an inquisitive Koros who had just spotted Fubuki's colorful new item, and Garou, Genos, Bang, King, and Saitama, who were all chatting by the dance floor. Not far off to the side, Rikuto and Mei talked with Aya and Himiko and various other guests, telling the story of the memorial and how it finally got built.

Back outside, Secter and Tatsumaki sat down at the hill overlooking the lake, watching the moon rise and cast its glow over the water. It was all perfect.

"So…" said Tatsumaki. "What's next?"

"Whatever we want it to be," said Secter. "Jobs, maybe a bigger house, maybe parents one day…"

Tatsumaki let out a slight laugh.

"Lot to think about," she said.

"Yeah," said Secter. "But for now, we relax. Got our honeymoon coming up, after all."

"Mmm," said Tatsumaki. "I'm looking forward to laying with you in the sun. Just the two of us, in bathing suits, alone on a quiet beach."

"Bet we'll have a lot of fun," said Secter, giving Tatsumaki a devious smile. "Ah, but you know we'll have to feed Ori and get a caretaker for him while we're gone. That little guy can eat."

"I'm sure we'll find someone," said Tatsumaki.

"Speaking of eating," said Secter. He snapped his fingers and within them appeared a candy apple on a stick. Secter pulled it through the air like a wand to cast a sugary spell over Tatsumaki, but for once, she wasn't biting.

"You remembered," said Tatsumaki, chuckling. "Tempting, but kind of bad timing, you dork."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, I want to kiss you."

"Oh! Well…for later then."

Secter snapped his fingers, returning the apple back to the dining room table inside.

They hugged one another, kissing and rubbing each other's backs and hair in the moonlight. Neither could've been happier. Their lives were truly beginning anew.

"Secter…" said Tatsumaki between kisses.

"Yeah?" asked Secter, his breath heavy.

"I really love you," said Tatsumaki. "We're really together now, you know?"

"We always have been. Today was just the icing on the cake."

"Mmm. Cake."

"That's still inside, if you're ready…"

"I am if you are," said Tatsumaki.

"Well then let's go," said Secter. "Missus Tatsumaki."

"Right behind you," said Tatsumaki. "Mister Secter."

They giggled to one another as they rose and headed back inside, finding Sycamore, Fubuki, and the rest of their friends. Everyone talked and laughed, enjoying themselves around the dance floor as the cake was set to be cut. It was a perfect night for them all, a reminder that even the greatest of threats simply couldn't impede the march of progress. The strongest had gathered in a room not to test their might, but rather to show their love for one another, and that was how it had always been. That the relationships formed between those in the room was not made out of fear, or control, or hatred, but out of respect, communication, understanding, and adoration.

None knew that better than Secter and Tatsumaki, who ate their wedding cake with glee. Perhaps one day, Sycamore and Fubuki would be doing the same, and they looked forward to it.

They looked forward to it all. Everyone did. Though it felt like a chapter of their lives had closed, the real fun and healing was bound to begin. It was off to a wonderful start.

And Secter and Tatsumaki, kissing and laughing at the head of the dinner table, could not have been more grateful.

. . .

Author's Note: And that's all folks! Thank you all so much for reading to the end of this epic saga, I loved writing it and can't even begin to tell you how happy I am that you all read. Hope you enjoyed as much as I did! And while this is the last main part in the Secter and Tats saga, it isn't quite over yet…next up will come a spin-off that focuses on Blue after he left Earth recently, it's slightly shorter than part one and is in my opinion one of the best stories of this series. I'm really proud of it! This spin off wraps up the Secter and Tats saga in its entirety, so if you want to see the true final ending, give it a look! I'll be posting the first chapter this coming Saturday just like I have been with For the Love of Life, I really hope you check it out and enjoy it as well! Once that's done I'll be working on original writing projects, I've been writing some really fun and interesting stories and aim to be published someday! And who knows, maybe there will even be more fic in the future…

That's all for now, it's even a little emotional posting this final chapter since it's been over two whole years of Secter and Tats goodness, and in the meantime I've got all kinds of amazing Sectatsu and even Blue art that I'll hopefully make into an imgur album to link to my FFN profile for people to see. Stay tuned, there's a bit more Secter and Tats to come someday, and I'll see you all next Saturday!