The courtyard was alive with soft music, played on an elegant lyre by a nobleman dressed in ceremonial white. Rows of nobles, both vampire and human and witches, were seated under silken canopies, their gazes fixed on the center aisle lined with white roses. At the altar, standing tall beside the robed priest, was Lancelot Kaisen. His usually stoic face now beamed with a rare, bright smile, an expression reserved only for the woman about to become his wife.
The wedding march echoed gently, signaling the bride's entrance.
Joshua stepped into the aisle, dressed sharply, his arm locked with Merlin's. The bride walked gracefully, her long white gown trailing behind her like a stream of starlight. A transparent veil covered her face, but her confidence radiated beyond it. Lancelot's heart skipped a beat as he saw her. The world seemed to still for that one sacred moment.
When they reached the altar, Joshua gave Merlin a reassuring look, then passed Lancelot, giving him a playful yet meaningful slap on the shoulder. The two exchanged a knowing smile, one of mutual respect and brotherhood, before Joshua took his place behind Lancelot. Behind Merlin, her bridesmaid Jessica stood in poised silence, her gaze reserved but ever watchful.
The priest raised his Bible and began, "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the presence of God and these witnesses to join Lancelot Kaisen and Merlin Frost in holy matrimony, which is an honorable estate, instituted by God."
He paused, glancing at the couple. "The couple has prepared personal vows. May they now exchange them."
Lancelot gently lifted Merlin's veil. His breath caught in his chest. Her eyes sparkled like silver in the morning light, and his heart swelled.
"Merlin," he began, his voice unwavering, "I know we've had our ups and downs, but from this day forward, I will always be there for you, just as you were always there for me from the very start. Thank you… for being by my side."
Merlin smiled, tears glistening in her eyes. "You're everything I dreamed of, kind, strong… and hot." Lancelot chuckled quietly. "I'll be by your side forever, my love."
The priest nodded approvingly. "Lancelot Kaisen, do you take Merlin Frost to be your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?"
"I do," Lancelot said, his eyes never leaving hers.
"And do you, Merlin Frost, take Lancelot Kaisen to be your lawfully wedded husband?"
"I do," Merlin replied, her smile radiant.
"The ring bearer may now bring the rings."
All eyes turned as Sam walked gracefully down the aisle in a beautiful blue dress, holding a small cushion with two golden rings. Rowdy, watching from the crowd, blinked, entranced by her beauty and unconsciously smiled.
Sam stepped forward, placing the cushion before the priest and standing beside him.
"Bless, O Lord, these rings," the priest intoned, "that Lancelot and Merlin may wear them as symbols of their love and faithfulness."
Lancelot took a ring and slid it gently onto Merlin's finger. She followed with his, their hands lingering, fingers entwined.
Sam returned to her seat, casting one last look at the couple.
"By the authority vested in me," the priest said, closing the Bible, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. What God has joined together, let no one separate. Lancelot, you may now kiss the bride."
Lancelot stepped closer, his arms wrapping around Merlin's waist. She met him halfway, her hands resting on his shoulders. Their lips met in a soft, tender kiss. The crowd erupted in applause.
In the front row, Franciele clapped with all her might, tears streaming down her face as she sobbed with joy. Joshua, standing proudly, applauded as well, his smile broad, a single tear trailing down his cheek.
Later, the gathering shifted to the back of the courtyard, where tables overflowed with food, wine, and laughter. Lancelot and Merlin stood side by side, sipping wine and greeting guests.
Athena and Kane approached.
"Congratulations," Kane said politely. "Your ceremony was beautiful."
"Thank you," Lancelot and Merlin replied in unison.
They all turned toward Athena, who stood silently with a bored expression.
"It was okay, I guess," she muttered, rolling her eyes before walking away.
Kane gave an apologetic shrug. "See you guys." Then he followed.
Merlin smirked. "Athena seems happy."
"Never seen her more thrilled," Lancelot replied, chuckling. They both laughed softly.
Nearby, Joshua stood by the snack table, already helping himself to a pile of treats. As he munched, he noticed a figure cloaked in a robe, their face hidden. The stranger was quietly stacking a plate with snacks too, far more snacks than any normal guest.
Joshua narrowed his eyes. He caught sight of the figure's hand, painted fingernails with a color he knew too well.
(Nail polish? I've seen that before…)
He approached carefully. "Hey, Eric."
"Hi, my darling," came the airy reply. "I heard there was food. Couldn't miss it. But I mustn't let anyone see me."
Joshua grinned. "I get it. The world just doesn't understand your greatness." He struck a silly pose.
Eric matched it perfectly. "Exactly, darling."
From afar, Merlin squinted. "Who's Joshua talking to? He looks… suspicious."
"That's my cousin Eric," Lancelot replied. "He's a weirdo. Only comes out of his room for food. But if you've got any magical or medical problems? He's your guy."
Merlin tapped her chin. "Good to know."
Soon, Jack, Raphael, Rowdy, Jessica, Julia, Emelia, and Sam joined the couple, diving into conversation and laughter.
Back at the snack table, Joshua continued. "So, you joining the banquet? There's gonna be even more food."
"Sorry, darling," Eric said dramatically. "Too many people. I have a big project to work on. But don't forget tonight. Our private time."
"Yeah, I won't." Joshua smirked.
Eric slinked away like a shadow, careful not to draw attention as he vanished toward his room.
Inside the noble house, the doors to the grand dining hall opened. The scent of roasted meats and fresh bread filled the air. Lancelot and Merlin led the way, arm in arm. The guests began to file in behind them.
Joshua stood at the snack table for a moment longer, finishing the last of his plate.
Rowdy passed by and slapped him on the back. "We should head inside."
Joshua nodded, placing his plate down. "Yeah. Let's go."
And with that, he joined his friends inside, where the feast, the dancing, and a night full of stories had only just begun.