"How does someone just declare you to be Lady of an entire village?" I exasperated at my kitchen table, leaning back in my chair as I recounted my experience over the past thirty-six hours as I tried to keep this high and mighty priest occupied. At least to not delay wedding preparations and risk him being here longer. "I mean, I tried to properly explain to him that we had our hands tied and—"

"Aphmau, it's not the end of the world," Cadenza stopped me, plating dinner. Again, making the meal as a way to thank me for whatever reason. She had already sent a plate to Laurance through Zoey and now was serving me. "I already told you, if you recall, that due to your help, it may be easy for one to think you're in charge around here."

"But he didn't see any of that. He just made an assumption," I sighed. "Now, I've had to give him a tour, accompanied him to the Inn's bar last night, introduced him to probably everyone, and now I fear I may have to keep him company at the reception."

Cadenza placed a plate of food down in front of me, taking a seat next to me with her own plate and saying; "Firstly, I think it's an exaggeration that Zane Ro'Meave will request you to spend the whole event with him. Especially since I saw him around Miss Kiki Castro most of the time. It seems that he's more entertained by her than anyone here. Secondly, what's the issue with someone thinking you're in charge around here? With Ser Rowan off duty and your actual Lord being a baby under a year old, you seem to be the best next guess."

"I can second that," Zoey stated, rejoining us. Cadenza and I were quick to notice Laurance, arm hooked to hers' as he held his own plate. We were quick to get to our feet and help Laurance to his own seat.

Cadenza asked, with a bit of disbelief and joy in her voice; "Did you finally decide to leave your hole?"

"It just sounds like you three have great conversations out here. I'm just sick of being left out," Laurance chuckled lightly, settling. "And Aph, I think Cadenza and Zoey are not far off. If Zane Ro'Meave thinks your Lady of Phoenix Drop, is that really a hindrance?"

"W-Well, I lack the experience first off—"

"You've traveled as a diplomatic messenger, guided and assisted the reconstruction of the village when Rowan was out on medical leave, and you make an effort to get to know every individual in the village on top of that. Just because you wanted to," Cadenza interrupted me, taking a bite of her food when she finished. She later stated with a bit of a full mouth; "There's not much more to it, Aphmau. But, please, go on."

I gulped, shocked at her continuous defense on the matter. But, nevertheless, I continued on; "Secondly, I'm not in line for the position. With Levin's parents' passing and him being underage, Rowan is the next to inherit the title. At least until Levin is sixteen."

Laurance exhaled, shifting in his chair before saying in a bit of an agitated voice; "Where's Rowan then?"

I considered on how to explain the situation. It was a strange one afterall. I knew Rowan's disdain for not only the Ro'Meave family and O'Khasis. Did he want people to know that? Especially Laurance of all people. To be safe, I said; "He's feeling under the weather."

Even blind, I could just see the annoyance in Laurance's gaze as he gazed down at the table. He mumbled; "Sure..."

"Laurance!" Cadenza snapped but I raised a hand to her to assure that it was fine. Honestly, I was also a little irritated that I was taking all of this on because of something Rowan was handling privately. I would have at least appreciated a bit of clarity from him, that way I could understand the direness of his situation.

Though the feeling of knowing Rowan would most likely do the same for me returned and it made me realize that if he did need to tell me, he would. He probably already did at the wall by stating his fear of the Ro'Meaves. That was possibly reason enough for his actions. I also did truly worry for him as the fear of losing him if Zane spotted him rose in my chest. It made me wonder what could possibly make him hate or fear the family and the city he called home. It was something to discover later, I guess.

"I'm just saying," Laurance continued, spinning his wooden fork around in his food aimlessly as he continued to look down. As if he could see the food in front of him but, I knew that wasn't true. "Rowan knows his duties as Head Guard. There is a level of sympathy I have for him as the circumstances of your village in particular are quite rare so he may never expected to take up the mantle as Regent Lord. But still...I think it's very dishonorable that he would expect you to—"

"But he didn't expect me to," I tried to assure Laurance, knowing he was just worried as my friend. "He just...ah, how do I say this?"

The three around me awaited my answer patiently. I felt bad that I was possibly exposing Rowan but, I hated the idea of leaving Laurance thinking he was neglecting his duties. There was more of chance of him understanding if he had the real reason anyways.

"Rowan...he isn't particularly fond of the Ro'Meaves," I stated hesitantly. "Nor O'Khasis."

"Who isn't?" Laurance snorted, attempting to take a bite of his meal but the fork just missing his mouth. He was able to recover quickly though, thankfully. Yet, again, Cadenza gave him a warning glare. If he could see it, I'm sure he would have cowarded there in his chair.

Fortunately, she softened soon after and shrugged saying; "What my brother is trying to respectfully say is that O'Khasis and its region has a more rough reputation to say the least."

I looked to Zoey next to see that she had no protest in the statement. So now, my curiosity spiked. I saw this as maybe a way to understand Rowan's qualms a bit more. Especially since he wasn't here to explain himself. He was probably with Nicole...talking, of course. Nothing more...

Cadenza seemed uncomfortable at first going further but I practically begged her with my gaze so she gathered herself to say; "It's more traditional as the family is one of the last surviving direct ancient lines of the Divine. They follow older ideals and because of that, the region does as well. Of course, there's probably positives to that for many people which is why it's one of the largest and strongest regions in our country. Still, it doesn't stop the rumors and stories coming in. I'm sure Ser Rowan has his reasons for leaving and is happy here in our region. But, that doesn't mean people can't enjoy—"

"What my diplomatic and kind sister is trying to say," Laurance abruptly started, silencing her. He looked up, nothing directly but it still showed his confidence in his next statement; "it's a shithole. Lord Garte is the closest thing to a tyrant this country has seen since Shad the Destroyer. It's only gotten worse with the death of his son, the wife going completely insane and locking herself away in the estate by choice, and I'm sure that gene-pool has only flowed into Zane Ro'Meave himself. So, yes, I understand where Rowan is coming from. More so if he came from there. But, that still doesn't give him the excuse to avoid his job. Take it from someone who was also Head Guard. Hell! Take it from someone who had to take on the role after losing my best friend and Head Guard!"

The room went silent, Laurance taking a deep breath before actually getting angry. I could tell he immediately regretted raising his voice, letting his frustrations take hold of him for a moment. But I recalled what he had said to me that night in his room. None of this was personal. He was going through something that no one can imagine for themselves. It was hard to hear such things said about Rowan, someone I care for deeply but, Laurance probably did have a point. So, when he calmed down and continued, I listened; "Aphmau, I think you need to give yourself more credit. Ser Rowan may not be a man of highest honor in my eyes but, he at least chose someone with a good head on her shoulders and a kind heart to take on the role of leader in his stead. And for that, I guess...I can respect him for. So please, tomorrow, at that wedding, go with your head held high and show this narcissist that he's no greater than you or anyone here. Direct line to Divine Warriors or not."

I felt a small grin pull at my lips. For many reasons regarding Laurance's words. Cadenza and Zoey seemed pleased enough by them as well not to argue with him. In fact, Zoey leaned forward, a bright, mother-like smile on her face as she said; "I full heartedly agree. It may be only temporary, possibly only two more days but, I think it's something you shouldn't be fearful of. You are very capable of doing this."

"And like I said before," Cadenza smirked, finishing up her plate. "Kiki is keeping him company and if he enjoys it, then just leave them alone and let her do the heavy lifting, hm?"

"Heh, I guess you're right," I admit, thinking about the sweet, loving woman who somehow found the Priest tolerable to be around. "Perhaps she's doing me a favor."

"Maybe," Zoey giggled, finishing up her meal as well and beginning to collect the plates. She stopped Cadenza when she started to get up to help, wanting to do it herself. This though led to Cadenza having other thoughts, that smirk on her lips only growing.

"You know, one way to improve someone's confidence is how they dress themselves," The redhead said slowly, giving me a sideways, mischievous glance.

I blinked, asking; "What do you mean? I think what–"

She raised her finger, shushing me in a loving, caring manner as she said; "Oh, sweet, naive Aphmau, you have no idea how the outfit you are wearing is not appropriate for a wedding. Especially now for the Lady of Phoenix Drop."

"B-But I'm still not the Lady of–"

"No matter! Let me head back to my tent and grab some things for you to try on. It'll be fun!"

I still was majorly confused and now feeling bad that she felt the need to help me. Especially if the items she's retrieving are anything like what she is commonly wearing. Though, I heard Laurance chuckle as he said; "Aph, if you don't let her, I think she'll combust."

"It's true," She added, not getting upset with Laurance's sly remark. Or possibly trying to show it didn't bother her.

I then turned to Zoey who still had that motherly, caring gaze on her face as she said; "Do it, Aph. You deserve a bit of pampering. Levin is asleep anyways. Thorgi even wants you to do it."

She then pointed to my dog who was upright, paws on the back of my couch as his tongue dangled happily out of his mouth as his tail wagged. I took a deep breath, letting relaxation melt into me as I looked back to Cadenza and said; "Let's do it!"

The young woman squealed like a child as she practically skipped to the front door; "I'll be back with dresses, scissors, cosmetics and—"

"Wait, wait, I thought you said how I dressed would be—"

"Oh, darling, I'm not letting you just get dressed and not get the full makeover experience! Stay there and I'll be back with my supplies!" Cadenza giggled before slipping out the door and shutting it behind her. I then slowly turned to Zoey who looked just as tickled as Cadenza was.

She shrugged her shoulders and said; "I did say pampering..."

—

The morning of the wedding. The day I had been dreading, waking up in cold sweats sometimes in the middle of the night. I wasn't even attending and when I awoke for the day, I already had a pit in my stomach. Every choice I had made the past five years replayed in my mind. It made me rethink my life, truly considering if being a guard was the smartest decision. I should have truly been a farmer. A man working the land in the middle of nowhere, no need to have any attention drawn on me from anyone of importance. Maybe then my friends wouldn't be suffering with the consequences of my poor actions.

I could have possibly been overreacting. It was only Zane and Ein afterall. They would understand...maybe. Of all people they know the real reason why I did all this. Hell, they're probably still living through it. That may be my biggest regret in all of this...

Still, I had a job. A minor one at that but, a task no less that needed to be completed. For Aphmau. It was the least I could do, with all the challenges I've put her through. She deserved to be at that wedding and celebration. Be surrounded by the people who have grown to love and care for her. If I couldn't be the Head Guard for the time being, then I was at least going to do my duty of being someone who cared for Aphmau. She didn't need to be distracted by Ser Laurance's condition. Something she was facing because I told her to go by herself. She didn't need to take care of Levin. A role she put herself in because I couldn't step up to the plate by myself. I can't deny to anyone, even myself, that I was in debt to Miss Aphmau. A debt that she didn't rub in my face but held it with grace. Perhaps oblivious to it.

I put on my armor, ready for the day, motivated to get to her home to let her get to the festivities as soon as possible. I hesitated to open the door, thinking of my route strategically before heading out. Nicole had informed me the previous day that Zane and Ein were being housed at the Inn while their guards were stationed in the camps that Scaleswind and Meteli had built. So I needed to avoid both. I also needed to do so with my head down, just in case. I navigated slowly through the village, it being pretty early in the morning so not many locals were roaming the streets to my benefit. I eventually made it to Aphmau's secluded home, so I was able to hold my head high as I approached the door. I knocked politely, waiting nervously to see what mood Aphmau may be in. Was she frustrated with me? I did decline, technically, being her dance partner. Or...was it a courting event? Did she...propose a courtship?

Oh my Irene... I thought to myself, feeling warmth rise to my cheeks as I thought of the idea of being in a courtship with Miss Aphmau. Right then, it was none other than Zoey who opened the door, her smile widening as she saw me there.

"Rowan!" She cheered, pulling me inside and subsequently pushing me through the home towards the stairs that led to the second floor. "Just in time, we need a second opinion and I think you're the perfect option!"

"S-Second opinion? On what?" I stammered out, frantically turning my head back and forth between Zoey and what was in front of me as I didn't want to trip.

"Oh you'll see..." The elf said, her eyes glimmering as she continued to force me up the stairs to Aphmau's quarters.

Before I could object to what was happening, I was dragged into the room. Giggles could be heard echoing in the room as I tried to recompose myself, still not fully recovered from my realization outside. What I saw though when I looked up did not help. Who I saw was Miss Aphmau, that was undisputed. Her raven hair pulled back into intricate braids that rounded into a low, messy bun. It knew it was the work of Zoey. Her tan skin glowed in the morning light that slipped into the room, which only enhanced the dress that she wore. It was lavender silk, shimmering with gold thread in various designs around the shoulders, chest, and down along the skirt until it reached the end. The sleeves were made of another fabric of a lighter color, draping over her arms, pulling the fabric to hug the edge of her shoulders. A golden belt hugged at her waist and before she turned to face me, I saw that in the back was an embroidered Phoenix dancing along the back of the skirt. It was truly a work of art in the form of a dress. But I was more stunned by Aphmau.

I had always thought of Aphmau as someone who was attractive. I remember thinking so when I had first met her formally in Zoey's home. Arguably when I first laid eyes on her on the beach. Though her heart and character being the thing that made her shine the more I got to know her. But seeing her like this made my heart skip, her amber eyes meeting mine with a radiance I could only compare to heaven itself. Then she smiled. I couldn't explain why. It couldn't be because I entered the room. She had every right to be annoyed with me. But her words sounded soft and kind as always as they left her mouth.

"Rowan," She said, her face breaking away the clouds of a stormy day. "You're early. I hope you didn't rush over here."

"I-I wanted to assure time for you, Zoey, and Lady Cadenza to get to the festivities on time," I replied, wanting nothing more than my beating heart to calm itself. If it didn't, I feared that I would collapse then and there. "You—You look amazing, Miss Aphmau."

"You really think so?" She asked me innocently, her eyes squinting with joy as her hands began to fiddle with the skirt. "It's one of Cadenza's designs—"

"A little project I've been working on since my arrival," Cadenza clarified, coming forward to make minor adjustments. It was then I realized I hadn't said a thing to Zoey or the future Lady of Meteli, who were dressed nicely for the ceremony as well.

"Well, i-it's impressive and if I'm to assume you are all wearing some of your work, you all look amazing," I quickly recovered, causing another quiet chuckle from Zoey, who said sweetly; "Thank you, dear."

I felt myself calm for the moment, seeing that I was safe. The end of the world wasn't happening, to my relief. Unfortunately, I jumped, hearing Aphmau suddenly spout; "Oh! Wait! Hold on!"

She rushed over to her bed, picking up her dress to not trip over it as she traveled over there. She leaned down to pick up something off her nightstand, carrying it over to Zoey. She whispered something into her ear, causing another adoring smile to stretch Zoey's face as she waved her hand over the item. It was then that I saw that the item was the crown I had woven for her, now back to full bloom showing the vibrant colors of the flowers as if I had picked them that same day. In shock, I snapped my head over to Zoey, who silently waved me off and gave me a wink. Thank Irene for elven magic. How could someone in Ru'an not be thankful for it?

"I think this would be the best last touch to the outfit. Don't you think so?" Aphmau asked me.

I couldn't help but grin, finding the idea touching. "Yeah...I think so."

"Oh! Zoey, we need to check on Laurance, right?" Lady Cadenza suddenly asked, making Aphmau and I watch the conversation in front of us.

"Why, yes! We couldn't possibly leave him without checking in on him before we went to the party! Would you join me? Downstairs?" Zoey then asked, moving subtly towards the door.

"Oh, you ladies don't have to worry about him. I can take over—" I began to offer but, was stopped by Cadenza stating;

"No! Nonsense! You already can't attend the party due to this illness! No need to put an extra task on you so suddenly!"

"Yes! Besides, this is the most complicated part of the day. It may be a hindrance if I don't do this," Zoey went on, a foot out the door.

Before I could protest, the two left the room, one of them calling out; "Be helpful and help Aphmau with that crown!"

I was at a loss for words, slowly turning my gaze back to Aphmau who looked just as lost. But, a small upwards curve returned to her lips as she raised the crown to me, saying; "Would you like to?"

"S-Sure! I'll try my best anyway!"

I gently took the flower crown in my hands, her turning towards her floor length mirror to watch. I carefully and probably too intricately placed the crown on top of her head, making sure it didn't harm the hair-doo. If my mother taught me anything, it would be to not ruin the look that probably took hours to complete. The magenta in the crown really only highlighted her features even more, causing my heart to flutter for a split second. But I was able to push out; "You...You do look beautiful, Miss Aphmau. Really. I think you're going to have a wonderful time."

Unfortunately, this caused a frown to appear on her face. Fearful I had crossed a boundary, I asked quickly; "W-What's wrong? Did I—"

"I wish you were coming," She interrupted me, turning to face me once more. She took my wrists, a wave of passion washing over her as she said; "Please. Let's go and I'll put my foot down. The High Priest thinks I'm the Lady of Phoenix Drop. If he dares to harm you or take you away, I'll stop it from happening. I promise."

Her words really did touch me. The same as they did the other day. But, she didn't understand. I don't think she would be able to stop the worst from happening. Even if she was an angel from Irene herself. So, I just said; "I wish...but, know I'm just doing what is best for you, the village, and me. If that means I have to miss the wedding, so be it. It'll be worth it."

"Rowan—"

"I promise this is the best choice. I promise."

She bit her lip, looking down in defeat. It hurt to see her like that. It made me see what my lies were really causing. So, I moved my wrists to instead hold her hands in my own to say; "I can't tell you why exactly. For your own safety. But once this passes, I...I'll explain further. I probably owe an explanation to not only you but many people. That is, if you wish to hear."

Her smile returned as she nodded her head, squeezing my hands assuringly as she said; "You don't have to, Rowan. But, I appreciate you feeling comfortable around me."

I smirked, saying; "Well...I think it's only right for a Head Guard to be completely honest to their Lady, no less."

That made her laugh, her eyes closing tightly as she did so and once again, I felt heat spread across my face. It even made me laugh, finding the stress of the past fortnight disappear by just the sweet, simple sound. Once we returned to our normal states, we still held each other's hands. With a bit of hesitance, I held them up and placed a kiss on the top of her hands, letting them go as they dropped back down.

"Have a great time, Lady Aphmau. You deserve it," I say, a smile still pulling at my lips.

Thankfully, my actions didn't hinder her own smile as she replied; "Thank you, Ser Rowan. I'll try my best in your absence."

And in the next few minutes, we descended down the stairs and then I escorted the three women out the door, watching as they walked away towards where the ceremony would be. Aphmau looked over her shoulder, waving to me as she did so. Her face still showed some displeasure in leaving me there but I knew I had made the right choice. Zane and Ein would be leaving the next day. Then, life and Phoenix Drop may return to normal. Well, as normal as it could be since Aphmau's arrival. Which I didn't mind, if it meant I got to have her close by and the chance to see her every day. I don't think my life would be normal any longer if she wasn't a part of it. That reality was one I was willing to be honest to myself and others about.