It had been a quiet evening in Trista. The warm light of Fie's desk lamp cast a gentle glow over her room, and a soft breeze filtered in through the window. Fie sat with a pen in her hand, tapping it lightly against her lips as she stared at the blank sheet of paper in front of her.

Writing to Victor Arseid, the Viscount of Legram and Laura's father, had become a regular habit. What had initially been a nerve-wracking effort to make a good impression had slowly turned into a genuine exchange. She found herself enjoying their correspondence—his warmth, his wisdom, and his subtle humor made the task less intimidating than she had imagined.

Still, tonight felt different.

Fie leaned back in her chair, exhaling deeply. She had been turning an idea over in her mind for days now, and she wasn't sure if it was too soon—or too bold—to bring it up. But when Fie thought about Laura and the life they were building together, her heart told her it wasn't something to fear.

She picked up her pen and began to write:

Dear Viscount Arseid,

I hope this letter finds you well. Things have been busy here, but in a good way—classes, training, and, of course, time spent with Laura. I've been practicing some of the techniques you taught me during our last visit, and I think I'm starting to get the hang of them. Still, I'd like another round of pointers next time we're in Legram, if you don't mind.

Speaking of Laura, she's as amazing as ever. I know I've said it before, but I want to thank you again for being so supportive of us. It means a lot—not just to Laura, but to me too.

I've been thinking a lot about the future lately. About what it might look like for us. I know it's still a ways off, but, well, there's something I wanted to ask you.

Hypothetically speaking, if Laura and I were to get married one day, how would you feel about that? About her marrying someone like me, someone that is a commoner?

It's a big question, I know, and maybe it's silly to bring up something so far away. But I think about how much Laura means to me, and I can't imagine a future where she isn't by my side.

I guess what I'm really trying to say is... I'd like your blessing, if that day ever comes.

I hope this doesn't come across as too forward. I just wanted to be honest about how I feel.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Please give my regards to everyone in Legram.

Sincerely,
Fie

Fie set the pen down and stared at the letter for a long moment. Her cheeks were warm, her nerves a mix of exhilaration and dread.

"Well," she muttered to herself, "no turning back now."

After carefully folding the letter and slipping it into an envelope, Fie sealed it and addressed it to Victor. She knew it might take a few days to hear back, but whatever the response, she was glad she had written it.

When she glanced over at the framed photo of her and Laura sitting on her nightstand, Fie smiled softly.

It felt right.

A week had passed, and Fie found herself pacing the lounge in the dorm, trying not to glance at the small pile of mail on the table every few seconds. When she returned from class earlier, she had immediately spotted the envelope addressed to her in a neat, elegant script. The seal on the back bore the crest of the Arseid family.

Now, sitting cross-legged on the couch, Fie finally broke the seal with careful fingers and unfolded the thick, cream-colored paper inside. Victor's reply was written in his usual, steady hand.

Dear Fie,

Thank you for your letter. I must say, I have come to greatly enjoy our correspondence. It has been a pleasure to witness not only your growth as an individual but also the bond you and Laura have cultivated together.

I must confess, your letter took me by surprise. It is not every day that one receives such an earnest and heartfelt question—especially from someone so dear to my daughter.

Let me answer it plainly: if the day ever comes when you and Laura choose to marry, you would have my blessing wholeheartedly.

Fie, I have seen the way you care for Laura, the way you bring out her smile, her laughter, and her strength. It is clear to me that you respect her as an equal and cherish her for the remarkable person she is. That is all any father could wish for their child—to see them loved so deeply and so sincerely.

I have no doubts about your character, Fie. You are someone who has faced trials most cannot imagine, and yet you have emerged from them with a kind heart and a steady resolve. You make my daughter happy, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.

Of course, marriage is a serious matter and one that requires mutual understanding, patience, and effort. I have every confidence that you and Laura possess these qualities, and that your love for each other will continue to grow stronger with time.

Know that you will always have a place in Legram, not just as Laura's partner, but as a member of the Arseid family should that day arrive. Regardless of your status, you would be welcomed with open arms.

Until then, cherish each moment you and Laura share. The future will unfold in its own time.

Please give my regards to everyone in Class VII, and know that I look forward to the next time you visit Legram.

With warmest regards,
Victor S. Arseid

Fie read the letter twice, her chest tightening with emotion. A quiet, shaky laugh escaped her lips as she carefully folded the letter back up and placed it in her lap.