He would have done anything that Ryoma asked of him; it was his duty to do so. To even think of denying any one of his requests would be foolish. Even the most debasing tasks would be carried out with grace and certainty, as was expected of him. This posed no issue for Saizo, he was a hard worker, given the proper resources there was nothing he couldn’t do. From leading and training an army to spying behind enemy lines, he had done it all without hesitation.

When Ryoma came to him claiming to have a ‘special request’ Saizo simply nodded and waited for his orders. 

“This is an important task, one I trust you to be equipped to handle.” Ryoma began, Saizo’s mind leapt to the possibilities. Had something happened? Was someone in danger? Who would he need to kill?

“I need you to organize this year’s Christmas party.” Saizo’s racing thoughts slammed to a halt. Surely he misheard him— a Christmas party? Saizo had never handled the organizing of public events, he had managed only the security aspects of such things. 

His confusion must have been clear on his face as Ryoma smiled patiently and continued. “I trust you will be able to handle organizing this year’s festivities? There’s a lot more to handle this year with the Kingdoms united; the Nohrians may have traditions we are unaware of. I need to be certain that this event goes smoothly, and I can think of none other to trust with such a task than you.” His heart sang at the praise— Ryoma’s voice always had that effect on him— even as he processed what was being asked of him.
Despite his confusion, he nodded curtly. “Of course my lord, I will ensure this task is completed without issue.” His lord smiled fondly at him once more. 

“I know you will.”

Saizo had immediately begun planning the festivities, finding a time and place for the event with no issue. Problems began as it slowly dawned on him that he would have to accommodate for Nohrian traditions alongside the Hoshidan ones. He had searched the libraries for information regarding Nohrian traditions with little success. Soon enough the horrifying realization dawned on him: he would have to speak with a Nohrian. 

He quickly sought out Corrin, hoping she would allow him insight to their traditions and he could quickly return to organizing the event. He went to her room in the evening, hoping she had finished her work for the day. Taking a deep breath, he knocked on the door to her room.

“One second!” There was the sound of papers shuffling and footsteps before her door swung open. “Who is it? Oh, Saizo!” She beamed up at him, stepping back and waving him inside. Her room was cozy and warm, illuminated only by candlelight. The windows had been left open to allow a gentle breeze to flow into the room. Saizo felt out of place in such a cozy environment. “I’m so glad to see you, you never visit me!” Saizo’s eye widened in horror.

“Apologies, my lady, I meant no offense.” He bowed apologetically.

“Don’t be silly! I’m just glad you’re here. How have you been?” Beamed Corrin, placing a hand on his shoulder, prompting him upright once more.

“I am well, and you?”

“Never better!” Grinning, she sat down at a table on top of which were many books and papers. She quickly swept them aside before gesturing for him to sit across from her, which he did with little fanfare. “So, what’s the reason for your visit?” 

“I require your assistance. You see, Ryoma has entrusted me with organizing this year’s Christmas ball. I need to incorporate Nohrian traditions, but I have been unable to find any sources on such things. I was hoping you could illuminate the matter for me.” Corrin’s face fell at his request, for a moment, he worried he had offended her. 

“Oh… I’d like to! But you see, they didn’t really allow me to take part in all the festivities. While my siblings brought back stories and gifts, I’ve never seen any of their celebrations with my own eyes. I’m afraid I wouldn’t be the best source for such things.” 

Corrin’s eyes glazed over as she recalled her childhood in Nohr. Feeling suddenly overwhelmed with frustration, not only for the poor treatment the princess underwent, but also for the fact that she could not answer his question, Saizo let out a deep sigh. 

“I’m sorry, I really wish I could help.”

“Do not apologize my lady,” He fixed her with a firm stare, his brows furrowing as he continued. “You have done nothing wrong.” Corrin giggled slightly, apparently amused by something he had said. His expression only tightened as her laughter continued. “In any case, I shall have to seek another source of information on the matter, and quickly.” Corrin’s expression shifted to a more serious one, her lips pursed as she thought hard. 

Sighing, Saizo stood, he stepped out from behind the table to bow deeply. “Thank you for your time my lady, I do not mean to leave in such a rush, but you must understand my urgency to fulfill my duties.” Corrin nodded slightly, still preoccupied with her thoughts. Saizo bowed deeply before promptly exiting her quarters. With fewer options than before, his brow furrowed as he considered where he might go next. Seeking out another Nohrian was in his mind, a last resort. He’d like as little to do with such devious, uncivilized people as possible. 

After a great deal of deliberation, Saizo had settled with going to Azura for assistance. She had proved herself more than capable throughout their journey, despite her Nohrian background. Steeling himself, he made his way to her quarters, knocking three times before standing back from her door. After a moment, she opened her door, a soft smile on her face.

“Who is it? Oh! Saizo!” Her mouth opened slightly in shock before she quickly corrected her expression. “Sorry— what can I do for you?” 

He bowed slightly before beginning his request. “Lord Ryoma has tasked me with the organization of this year's Christmas party. I am to incorporate aspects of Nohrian culture in this year’s celebration, unfortunately I am unable to find any reliable source on the matter. I was hoping you would be able to illuminate the matter for me.”

The shocked look on her face slowly shifted to one of understanding, then contemplation. After pausing for a moment, her eyebrows furrowed slightly in frustration. 

“I’m sorry Saizo, I can’t say that I’ll be any help in the matter. You might be better off—” She was suddenly interrupted by Corrin shouting down the hall. 

“Saizo! Saizo, I've found you an authority on Nohrian culture!” Saizo let out a deep sign of relief. Finally, he would be able to proceed with the planning for the celebrations and put this whole ordeal behind him. He would be able to see the proud look on Ryoma’s face when he saw the perfect, tasteful celebration that he had put together. 

Turning to face Corrin as she rushed towards him, he felt his dreams crushed and stomach drop as he saw who she was approaching with. Following close behind her— face twisted into a cruel smirk— came Niles, hand in hand with Corrin. The image of the two of them performing such an intimate gesture in public disgusted Saizo; how dare this filthy mercenary hold the hand of Hoshidan royalty so flippantly. He could feel his fists tighten at his side, his heart beating fast. Before he could fly into a blind rage, he took a deep, seething breath, steeling himself as they approached. 

Maintaining a pointedly neutral expression, Saizo bowed deeply to Corrin, before turning to nod curtly at Niles. Niles met his glare with an easy smile, still hand in hand with Corrin as he spoke.

“Saizo! Heard you were having some trouble, eh?” Saizo stared blankly, attempting as best he could to maintain a clear expression, though the twitch of his eye betrayed him. His gaze kept flicking to the two of their hands clasped together, the sight of which still disgusted him. 

“I am not having any trouble—  I am carrying out my duties as expected.” Niles’ smirk grew as he spoke, which only served to further agitate Saizo. Who did this man think he was? Openly mocking him, in front of Corrin no less. It was an outrage!  He would not take such disrespect lightly. 

“Was there anything you needed, my Lady?” He turned to face Corrin once again, refusing to spend even a moment more seeing the gleeful look on the Nohrian’s face. 

“But Saizo, I thought you said you needed someone to ask about Nohrian culture?” Chimed in Azura. “Surely Niles would be a reliable source on the matter? It seemed quite important to you…”

“I suppose I should clarify then,” Began Saizo, “I have no desire to seek aid from a Nohrian, let alone a Nohrian mercenary. I intend to find a reputable and trustworthy source on the culture.”

“I’m plenty trustworthy! Isn’t that right, Corrin?” Niles elbowed Corrin, and Saizo fought the urge to pry them apart and berate Niles for dragging her into his tomfoolery. Instead, his gaze fell on Corrin’s disappointed face.

“I’m sorry, I thought… I could help you…” Suddenly, Saizo felt a pang in his chest. Corrin’s sad and confused expression broke his heart. She had only wanted to help, and Saizo had carelessly refused her, allowing his pride to get in the way. He floundered to undo the damage he had done. 

With a deep sigh, he conceded. “I suppose… Niles could provide some helpful information.” Corrin’s face lit up, and Saizo let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. 

“Great! I’ve got time to chat now, let's get to it!” Niles reached an arm out and around his shoulder, dragging Saizo alongside Corrin. He tensed at the touch, mortified to be in such casual contact with the other man. Despite his horror, he chose to focus on the happy expression Corrin’s face bore, and not the cold, callused hand on his back as he allowed himself to be pulled away from Azura’s room. 

The three of them sat around the small table in Corrin’s room. Saizo sat facing the door, while Niles and Corrin sat tucked into one another, facing him. The room was just as pleasant and cozy as Saizo remembered, though he found himself struggling to appreciate that comfort in present company.

He took deep breaths, attempting to steel himself for what he was certain would be the most unhelpful, unpleasant conversation he had ever taken part in. Perhaps this could yield some helpful information. He should attempt to garner as much value from this discussion as possible, if only to avoid having to speak with another Nohrian. 

“As I am certain Corrin has already informed you, I am responsible for organizing this year's Christmas celebrations.” Saizo began, trying his best not to allow his contempt to show on his face.  “I must incorporate Nohrian traditions—a subject I am unable to find any reliable sources on. I would ask that you inform me of the most important aspects of Nohrian Christmas celebrations.” 

“Right, right…” Niles stroked his chin as though he were in deep thought, which Saizo did not believe him capable of. “Well, I’d say our most important tradition by far is mistletoe.”

“Mistle… Toe? What is this?”

“Mistletoe! It’s a plant, we hang it in doorways. When two people walk underneath it, they’ve gotta kiss!” Saizo stared, unamused. Niles continued,“It’s absolutely non-negotiable in Nohr. Representative of the loving spirit of the holiday and all that. Gotta have it— lots of it. In every doorway.” 

Saizo squinted, glaring at Niles as he decided whether this was legitimate information, or some pathetic joke. 

“Oh mistletoe! I remember that! Leo told me about that once!” Corrin snickered at the memory. “From what he described it certainly sounded unavoidable!” 

Saizo sat with this information for a moment. With Corrin’s confirmation of the truth of this information, he then had to consider the realistic implementation of this tradition. Frankly, it didn’t look good. His mind flooded with horrific visions of the celebration, people kissing indiscriminately in every doorway. Cringing, he vocalized these concerns.

“I fear that incorporating such a… salacious tradition may be inappropriate for the celebration. What are other features of Nohrian Christmas?”

“Nuh uh, mistletoe is super important, can’t skip it.” Saizo’s stare hardened once more, challenging the Nohrian for questioning his judgment. “I dunno what to tell you, it’s a critical aspect of Nohrrian tradition, not including it could be seen as disrespectful, like taking all the love out of the holiday. Could be serious.” Niles nodded solemnly as he said this, and Corrin looked a bit frightened by his words.

“Saizo, it sounds pretty important. Maybe you can find a tasteful way to include it? If anyone can, I know you can!” She smiled earnestly at him, clearly sensing his tension. She was right, it was his responsibility to include vital aspects of Nohrrian tradition. He could not fail Ryoma, and therefore he must find a way to incorporate the ‘mistletoe’  in an appropriate manner. Nodding curtly, looked between the two across from him. 

“Fine then, I will include mistletoe in this year's holiday celebrations. What else should I consider for the festivities?” Niles grinned ear to ear in response to this, leaning heavily on the table as he began to rattle off other aspects of their celebrations. 

“Well there's lots of tinsel, in gold, green and red. We sing songs and get gifts for one another, lots of fun stuff. Oh— we get a big evergreen tree and decorate it with more tinsel and ornaments, then we put a big star up at the top.” Saizo listened intently, visualizing these decorations alongside the Hoshidan ones. They shouldn’t clash too terribly, at the very least both cultures would be pleased by the use of gold. Admittedly, the holiday Niles described did not sound at all unpleasant; many of the things he described would be welcome additions to the celebration. 

Niles described a tradition in which they would bake ginger-based cookies that they shaped into small people, and decorated with frosting. While there were many other baked goods ascribed to the holiday, the gingerman cookies stuck with Saizo. What about the holiday called for cannibalism? While it had unnerved him slightly to think that he had yet to confirm any of this information, it unnerved him more to think of conversing with yet another Nohrian. Besides, none of these traditions had seemed particularly unusual. Something as disgusting and vulgar as a plant which prompts people to publicly kiss, or a cannibalistic-themed ritual seemed well in line with Saizo’s understanding of Nohrian culture.

As Niles continued, Saizo noticed the captivated look on Corrin’s face as he described the holiday. It suddenly occurred to him that this was almost certainly her first time experiencing the holiday herself, rather than vicariously through the Nohrian royal family. He felt a pang in his chest at this realization, and resolved himself to make this Christmas absolutely perfect. After all, it was his duty to serve the royal family to the utmost of his ability. He would not stop until he was certain his preparations were perfect.

As their conversation concluded, Saizo stood and bowed to them, begrudgingly thanking Niles for his assistance. Corrin smiled at both of them as she stood to let Saizo out of her room.

“I’m so glad he could help you! When he told me he was an expert, I was sure he’d be able to tell you everything you needed to know!”

“Thank you for thinking of me, my Lady, but please do not trouble yourself with my concerns in the future. It is not for you to worry about.” Saizo said quite seriously, only to be met with another amused giggle from Corrin. 

“Whatever you say, Saizo. It was nice getting to chat with you.” 

“And with you, my lady.” Saizo concluded as he stepped out of her room. As the door closed behind him, his thoughts returned to his plans for the celebration. He now had all the necessary information to plan the celebration, and could soon begin setting up the venue. Though exactly where he was going to acquire mistletoe, he was unsure. Beyond that, the placement of the mistletoe still concerned him. He would have to place it in an unobtrusive manner, while still allowing it to be a notable aspect of the celebration. On top of that, he would have to warn his fellow Hoshidans, or at least the royal family of this tradition, to avoid any mishaps. He cringed at the possibility of some Nohrian despot passing under the mistletoe with Ryoma. Disgust boiled in his stomach at the thought; he could not allow anyone to engage in such behavior with his lord. 

Saizo quickly returned to his preparations. He had chosen to hold the party in one of the admittedly smaller ballrooms, but one that opened up to the gardens in the back, allowing adequate space for guests and activities. He knew that Ryoma and Corrin greatly enjoyed the gardens, so holding the celebration there seemed a natural choice. The thought of their joy at his choice of location filled his heart with pride. He was certain that this celebration would be perfect, and nothing less. 

To compensate for the weather outside, he had arranged large charcoal braziers near the doors. Saizo came to stand by one, warming his hands as he went over his plans. As he did so, he heard the sound of someone approaching the doors, he recognized the sound of Ryoma’s footsteps immediately. Quickly turning to face his Lord as he entered, he bowed deeply.

“Lord Ryoma, I have nearly finalized my arrangements for the celebration. I hope you will be satisfied with my work.”

“I am certain I will be, your work so far is excellent.” Ryoma smiled fondly, looking around the room and admiring his work. Saizo’s chest swelled with pride at his words. 

“Thank you, my Lord.” 

“I am looking forward to the celebration you have put together, Saizo.” Ryoma said, placing a hand on his shoulder. Saizo stiffened at the unexpected touch, slightly horrified that his lord would deign to touch him so casually. Another, smaller, part of him, however, appreciated the act of affection. Nodding, Saizo looked up at Ryoma.

“I hope you will enjoy it, my lord.” Saizo's voice came out rougher than intended, Ryoma's palm still warm through his sleeve. The prince's eyes softened—too soft— or was that wishful thinking? Before he nodded.

As the day of the celebration neared, Saizo grew increasingly agitated. He had checked and re-checked his preparations multiple times a day, ensuring not a hair was out of place. Despite multiple attempted interventions from both Corrin and Kaze, neither were able to dissuade him from his obsessing. 

“Brother, I am certain that you have planned and perfected everything you possibly can.”

“I know how little it takes for you to be certain of something.” Saizo bit back, still refusing to look away from the venue, scrutinizing every angle. Perhaps holding the event in such an open venue was a mistake. It left them too vulnerable; what was he thinking?

“Saizo, really! I think what you’ve put together is wonderful! I hate to see you so stressed by this.” Corrin chimed in, pulling him out of his spiral.

“Do not concern yourself with my wellbeing, my lady, I assure you I am fine.” Finally tearing his eyes away from the ballroom, he saw the pained look on Corrin’s face. “Really, I am. I simply wish for everything to go smoothly, and I intend to do all I can to ensure that.” Corrin and Kaze exchanged a knowing look, which only served to deepen Saizo’s frustrations. “In any case, it is Christmas eve. I suggest you both rest well and early in order to prepare for tomorrow’s festivities. Good night.” Bowing to both of them, he turned sharply, walking out of the hall and into his quarters. 

Sighing deeply, Saizo ran through all his contingencies for tomorrow. In the event of an attack, he had stationed more than enough guards around the hall, and he himself would keep close tabs on all aspects of security. Should a fight break out amongst the guests, likely one started by some brutish Nohrian, he would intervene swiftly, and have the aforementioned guards escort the offenders outside immediately. If the weather took a turn for the worst, Saizo would arrange to have the guests escorted back inside, and open the main doors to open up the smaller room, while rearranging the guards accordingly. 

As he continued rehearsing his plans, he stripped himself of his armor, and readied himself for bed. Though he did not rest easy, as his worries plagued him through the night, he eventually fell into a fitful sleep.

Saizo awoke early, getting ready for the busy day ahead of him in darkness. He went about ensuring the staff and attendants were performing their expected duties on schedule, and triple checking the ballroom. 

The room was lined with bright, sparkling tinsel, lamps lit in every corner alongside the charcoal stoves. Vivid banners and streamers in gold, red and green were hung high throughout the ballroom. The doors were decorated with massive, intricate wreaths, sparkling with golden tinsel and charms. Long tables lined with fine tablecloths were laden with food and drink from both Hoshido and Nohr. At the center of the gardens stood a massive evergreen tree, elaborately decorated with beautiful garlands and ornaments. Atop the tree a massive, magically lit star was placed, illuminating the courtyard. 

Everything was as it should have been, despite this, Saizo’s dread only grew as he continued revising his contingency plans. As the day wore on and the evening grew closer, Saizo only grew more and more agitated. He had not left the ballroom since first entering it, trusting Kagero to attend to Ryoma in the meantime. Saizo still found himself filled with guilt and anxiety at the thought of not being by Ryoma’s side. Saizo had gone around and around the room, searching for possible flaws in his security plan that he might have overlooked, finding none. He scrutinized every guard, nearly bringing one man to tears when he interrogated him on the sharpness of his weapon, and the readiness of his stance. 

With mere minutes before the beginning of the celebration, Saizo had stood before the grand doors, breathing heavily and muttering under his mask. At that point, the attendants had decided to stay as far away from him as they possibly could, especially after one woman had made the nearly fatal mistake of attempting to console him. They all watched nervously along the edges of the ballroom, as Saizo sighed deeply, and opened the doors.

Ryoma and Kagero stood before him, behind them stood the remainder of the Hoshidan royal family, alongside the Nohrian royals and their retainers. Saizo bowed deeply before standing and welcoming them into the ballroom. Ryoma smiled at him, before stepping into the room, the others following behind him. Ryoma’s gaze lingered on him, even as he led the guests inside; Saizo felt suddenly flustered by his staring, wondering what he had done to earn such attention. He held eye contact, and Ryoma seemed pleased— his smile widening.

With great effort, he tore his gaze from Ryoma to search for Corrin, finding her staring up in awe around the room. Close beside her stood Elise and Camilla, who beamed and gushed about just how excited they were for Corrin to have her first proper Christmas. Saizo warmed with pride for having ensured that Corrin’s first Christmas would be perfect. 

Sakura had quickly and quietly made her way over to the dessert table, eyes lit up with excitement. Saizo was sure to stand on the opposite side of the room from that table, as the smell was far too strong, and he could not afford to be sick at such an important time. 

Takumi followed not far behind, accompanied by his retainers. Oboro was fussing over his outfit, which she had carefully curated for him. He looked slightly embarrassed, attempting to brush her off as he entered the hall. Hinoka followed them, smirking at their antics. 

As people spread through the ballroom, Saizo turned his attention back to security. He watched each of the guests closely, particularly those who stood near Ryoma. As one woman, Charlotte, leaned closer to Ryoma, likely engaging him in some dull, superficial conversation, Saizo lasered in his focus, watching for any untoward behavior. Suddenly, he was ripped from his focus by an arm around his shoulders.

“Saizo! Nice party you put together!”

“Thank you, Niles.” Saizo grunted, attempting to extricate himself from the other man’s grip, taking a step back. “Please enjoy the festivities.” He gestured into the room, hoping Niles would take the hint, and leave him be. He did not.

“Really, great stuff! You perfectly captured the essence of Nohrian culture. Speaking of…” Niles trailed off, glancing at the ceiling.

“Speaking of what—” Saizo followed his gaze, landing on a single broom of mistletoe hung on the ceiling. “Shit.” 

Saizo had made sure to place the mistletoe strategically, keeping it out of high traffic areas. He knew where every single one was placed, in order to avoid them. It seemed that in focusing on Ryoma and Charlotte, he had forgotten, and accidentally walked right under one, where he was now standing with Niles. 

Clenching his teeth, Saizo grit out, “I am not interested in kissing you, Niles.”

“Saizo! We’ve been over this! It’s an important tradition—we Nohrians take it very seriously.” Saizo glared sharply at him. While not a single part of Saizo could stand the thought of kissing Niles, nor could any part of him stand upsetting still tenuous relations with the Nohrians by rejecting a royal retainer. Niles grinned down at him, seemingly aware of this fact. Clenching his fists, Saizo nodded curtly, taking a miniscule step towards Niles. Niles’ grin grew even wider and he bridged the gap between them. 

Screwing his eye shut, Saizo braced for the kiss, thoughts racing with how horrible and rancid the taste of the other man might be. Standing stock still, he waited for the cold press of Niles’ lips to his own, only to be shocked when he instead gave him a quick peck on the cheek. Blinking, Saizo’s eyebrows creased in confusion. Had he misunderstood the tradition? The tone with which Niles had spoken to him when describing the mistletoe seemed quite obscene. Though thinking further, that may have just been a product of the way Niles spoke; the man could have made the act of drinking tea borderline pornographic.

“Merry Christmas, Saizo.” Niles winked before promptly disappearing back into the crowd. After spending a shocked moment standing still, Saizo quickly removed himself from the mistletoe, and silently prayed no one had seen the exchange.

Unfortunately, his prayers went unanswered as when he walked past one of the braziers, Setsuna stopped him. 

“Aww Saizo, that was so sweet. It’s nice to see you getting along with him like that.” She smiled genuinely at him, which only served to fill him with more rage.

“I simply acquiesced to participate in a vital aspect of Nohrian tradition. I would not say I was getting along with him.” Setsuna tilted her head in confusion.

“But, he was smiling at you? It all seemed very friendly to me… I thought it was nice to see you making friends with a Nohrian since the kingdoms have united and all.” Saizo had opened his mouth to correct her, before noticing that she had tilted her head too close to the brazier, and was about to light her hair on fire. Quickly, he had yanked her away from the charcoal, looking down at her head, checking for singed hairs. Setsuna had simply let him pull her around, only giggling slightly as he did so. He guided her away from any braziers, and towards one of the tables. 

“You’re so funny, Saizo.” She smiled idly at him as he carefully patted her hair, feeling for burnt strands. After feeling none, he sighed, exasperated, before bidding her goodbye, and returning to his perimeter checks. 

As the night wore on, the party continued to go smoothly, everything going according to plan. Corrin had given a beautiful speech, detailing her plans for the now united kingdoms, and her excitement about what was to come. Her Nohrian and Hoshidan family stood by as she spoke, gazing up at her with admiration. She had taken to her newfound leadership so well, thriving now that she had so many people by her side supporting her.

After she had concluded her speech, he found her sitting with all of her sisters, excitedly chatting about the party. Hinoka stood behind them, nodding in acknowledgement as he approached. 

“Oh! This must all be so exciting for you, what’s been your favorite part so far?” Elise beamed up at Corrin, clasping one of Corrin’s hands in two of hers. Sakura was smiling warmly, sitting tight to Corrin’s side. 

“I mean, it's all been really wonderful, just seeing everything I've been hearing about my whole life in person. It’s beautiful.” Corrin was awestruck, still admiring all the decor and people, dressed up in festive wear. “Oh, Saizo!” She exclaimed, noticing him. She gestured him over, and he came quickly, standing before her and bowing. 

“My lady, it pleases me to hear you are enjoying the festivities.” Without responding, Corrin stood up, and pulled him into a tight hug. He froze for a moment, feeling that such contact with her would be inappropriate for someone of his standing. After a moment, he decided it would be far more offensive to reject the gesture, and returned the hug. He made eye contact with Hinoka, who smirked at him, having sensed his apprehension. Camilla laughed with a hand to her mouth, clearly amused by his panic.
“Thank you for putting this together, really. Tonight has been wonderful.” She murmured into his shoulder. In response, Saizo nodded curtly, putting a hand on her shoulder and stepping back. Despite his apprehension towards the Nohrians, it was clear to him that Corrin was truly happy surrounded by her sisters.
“I am glad.” He smiled at her, and she smiled back. “Please, spend the time with your family. They have waited for this day for a long time.” He bowed deeply to them once again, before returning to his rounds. 

 Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, some, perhaps, too much. Saizo had caught both Keaton and Velouria attempting to pilfer tinsel off the walls and tables, only murmuring something about “treasures” before scampering off again. He watched the two of them closely as he performed his regular checks. The moment he took his eye off of them, they made their move on the tinsel.  After catching them in the act for a third time, Saizo was about to have them removed from the hall. He had cornered Velouria outside the ballroom, in one of the hallways. After telling her off for the better part of 5 minutes, Ryoma stopped him. Setting a hand on his shoulder, Ryoma laughed as he shooed Velouria away. She stuck her tongue out at Saizo before darting a corner and running off. He continued to chastise her, even as she ran away from them.

“Relax, Saizo,” His hand on Saizo's shoulder squeezed, pulling him from his rant. Their eyes met, and Saizo's protests died down. Too close. “It's just a bit of tinsel, no need to get worked up over it. The celebration you’ve put together is still wonderful sans tinsel.” Ryoma said, appearing to be amused by their antics. Huffing slightly, Saizo nodded curtly.

“Yes, my lord, I apologize for the disruption.” Just as Saizo was about to turn, allowing Ryoma to return to the festivities, he was stopped as Ryoma kept his grip on his shoulder. He looked up, confused. Did he require something else of him? Had he forgotten something? What had he missed?

As he followed his Lord’s gaze upward, Saizo realized exactly what he had missed. There on the doorway above them, was a sparkling piece of mistletoe. Mortified, Saizo began spewing apologies. 

“I am sorry Lord Ryoma, I had forgotten about this loathsome tradition when going after that wretched— When going after Velouria. There is no need to abide by such a depraved—”

“I think it’s quite fun,” Ryoma cut him off, a smile spreading across his face. “It’s good that you’ve taken to properly integrating Nohrian culture into this celebration. With our kingdoms united, it’s wonderful to see the cultures meshing.” He continued, seemingly oblivious to Saizo’s horror. 

“Er— yes, I suppose it is.” Saizo said, correcting his posture and expression, no longer afraid he had offended his lord. Just as he thought he was off the hook, his heart seized in his chest as Ryoma bent down, and pressed a kiss on the corner of his mouth— warm, brief, but intentional. With Ryoma so close, he was overwhelmed by the smell of incense that hung onto him. His thoughts ran to a screeching halt. 

As Ryoma stood back, his fond smile shifted into one of amusement upon seeing Saizo’s— still frozen in place— face burning. Blinking, he came back to himself, and was immediately bombarded by panic. What if someone had seen them? What on earth would they think? Why would Ryoma lower himself to such a gesture? Retainers didn't earn this. Unless… no. Seeming to sense his confusion, Ryoma squeezed his shoulder before releasing him. 

“It is wonderful that these traditions allow us new opportunities to understand one another, don’t you think?” Still trying not to gawk, Saizo nodded in agreement, still attempting to decipher what exactly he meant. 

“Merry Christmas, Saizo.” Ryoma said as he glanced at him over his shoulder and headed back out into the crowd, leaving Saizo to collect his thoughts. 

Still mortified, and left with more questions than answers, Saizo attempted to regain his focus, eventually managing to settle himself enough to walk back out into the crowds and check the perimeter once more. Eventually he found himself standing atop a ledge, looking down at the partygoers in the gardens. The sight of everyone smiling and laughing left Saizo contented that he had done his job well. His security had been more than sufficient in keeping the guests safe, with the only notable report being that a family of deer had been frightened away by the noise. 

Within the crowd, he spotted Selkie and Velouria, tucked away in their own corner. For a brief and terrible moment, Saizo feared that the two had joined forces against him, and were now conspiring to clear the room of tinsel. Upon closer inspection, he realized they were in fact sharing a gingerbread man-shaped cookie. They giggled brightly as they broke off its limbs, and bit off its head. While slightly put off by the morbid nature of the cookie, it was an admittedly sweet display.

Saizo felt content, having performed his duty to his Lord. His chest swelled with pride as he gazed at the partygoers, enjoying the ball and each other’s company. Admittedly, Saizo had some reservations about the merging of the kingdoms, despite his unfailing belief in Corrin and her cause. It was seeing moments like these— people getting along, coming together— that reminded Saizo that he had made the right choice in supporting Corrin. 

As the final songs faded, Saizo slipped down from the ledge, intent on one last perimeter sweep, only to be intercepted by Ryoma near the evergreen tree, a cup of spiced cider in hand.

"Saizo. You've outdone yourself." Ryoma pressed the cup into his retainer's gloved fingers. "Join us— for real this time."

Before Saizo could protest, Corrin appeared, cheeks flushed from dancing, Niles smirking at her side. "Come on! One big cheer for the best party planner in both kingdoms!"

Hemmed in by smiling faces— Hoshidan and Nohrian— Saizo raised the cup. The star atop the tree twinkled brightly. 

Later that night, as the hall was being cleaned, Saizo stood idly against a wall. He nibbled on a gingerbread man, having determined that the tradition was, in fact, not cannibalistic in nature. He stood, recounting the night's events. 

He had begun by assessing the success of the event, though his mind wandered back to Ryoma, and the mistletoe. What had he meant, kissing him like that? Even as praise for his hard work, such affection was inappropriate for a lord to show his retainer. Surely Ryoma understood that, and yet… 

Saizo bit the head off of the cookie, a broody expression glued to his face. He glanced around the now empty ballroom, watching as the last few servants filtered out. All in all, the night had been a success, mistletoe mishaps aside.