"I have." Lyarea smiled back as she shook the hand Elizabeth offered. "Congratulations. I hope your husband brings you joy in all the years ahead."

[i]I love weddings,[/i] one of the voices said dreamily. [i]People marry the person in their heads and sometimes they actually exist. Do you remember the ceremonies back home?

Yes,[/i] another replied. [i]I also remember you petitioning the chrysalis to take bigger portions of the feast than her due. You always were a glutton.[/i]

Lyarea tuned out the ensuing argument with a mental sigh. The Council never could stay silent for long. 

"It is very kind of your family to organise festivities for the entire town," she said to Elizabeth.