The afternoon light reached towards the ground, illuminating the forest ever so gently. Lilies, roses, hibiscus, daisies, tulips, orchids, carnations, and all flowers one could imagine filled each and every corner of the place, two figures sitting by themselves, enjoying the peace together.
With the wedding ceremony finished, most of the guests have already headed towards the reception venue. All that were left were the bride, the groom, their families, and a few important figures. Of course, it also meant that Grey and Yuna were still there.
"Yuna, have you cooled down already?" ［Grey］
"Un..." ［Yuna］
Meekly, Yuna answered Grey's question, her face still colored a rosy tint. While her red really became red after catching the bouquet, what was more tiring and more embarrassing was what came after.
After catching the bouquet, the single ladies quickly gathered around her, asking her a couple of questions relating to her relationship with Grey. And when an innocent Ruru approached her too, asking when she'll marry Grey, her embarrassment peaked and her mind stopped functioning, she overheated.
"Then, how about we head to the venue? I'm sure everyone's waiting." ［Grey］
"Un..." ［Yuna］
Still answering meekly, Yuna accepted Grey's hand as she stood, rejoining with the others and heading towards the reception venue which was just the village plaza in front of the Chief's residence.
The large open space which was usually empty was now filled with people in every nook and cranny. While it may not be as crowded as the scene back at the founding festival back at the royal capital, it was still an amazing number nonetheless.
Hundreds of villagers were already present at the scene and a few hundred more are coming after some time. It was a village-wide celebration which every villager joined with bright smiles on their faces.
Of course, what kind of wedding reception would be complete without the food which many of the attendees are there for. From the front, back, and the sides, tables were connected with one another, covered by white cloth and creating a noticeable long line, extending dozens of meters.
The dishes on the top weren't any less outstanding either. From head to tail, the table was filled with all sorts of dishes. Just a single glance and one would already identify several dozens, if not a couple hundred present.
It was the product of Grey and Yuna's hard work along with the help of the village's best cooks. It went without saying that it took a lot of effort. From the planning, to preparing, all the way to the end, it took a stupendous amount of work. Just this morning, they were grinding their bones to meet the deadline.
If one were to look at it, they would think that rather than a wedding reception, it looked more like a celebratory feast or a festival, and one wouldn't be wrong. The scale was just that grand.
Sparkle Sparkle Sparkle
"Yuna..." ［Grey］
And as one would expect, Yuna's eyes were lighting up brighter than the sun as she looked at the dishes with great intent. Even though she was one of the people who prepared it, he couldn't help but feel excited.
"The bride and groom have arrived!"
A loud announcement echoed as Kris and Aria entered the venue. Everyone's eyes were on them as they paved the way, celebratory wishes and exclamations of joy came flying towards the two as the villagers expressed their heartfelt feelings.
It was a chaotic scene, yet it was strangely refreshing. Although everyone had their differences, they all came together to wish their little angel and the man she fell in love with. They all wished them a happy marriage from the bottom of their hearts.
The bride and groom continued to walk and they soon arrived at their own seats, located at the venue's center. A few seats were arranged by their sides, reserved for their family members and close associates.
"Waah～! The villagers really love Miss Aria, don't they?" ［Yuna］
"Yuna, not 'Miss' Aria, but 'Missus Aria'. She's already married now." ［Grey］
"Ah, right! Sorry, 'Missus' Aria～!" ［Yuna］
Yuna's words were genuine, but behind them was a teasing smile. And realizing once again the reality that she was now married, Aria's face turned red like that of a ripe cherry, feeling emotions just as sweet and intoxicating.
Even when they had already seated themselves, the loud and excited cheers didn't stop. The people still continued to congratulate the two of them, only quieting down when Falroe stepped up with a magic tool in his hands.
The magic tool was none other than a voice-enlarging device that works about the same way as a microphone. Now, not as the Chief, but as the bride's father, it was his duty to call the other's attention and present his speech for this glorious day.
"23 years ago, when Valka said she was pregnant, I felt like the happiest man in the world. That time, I was speechless. I couldn't express my emotions and all I could do was cry in happiness like an idiot.
Months passed by, and another angel finally came into my life. My baby, Aria, was born. When Valka was pregnant, I thought I couldn't be any happier, but after feeling her little hands... It was only then that I learnt I was wrong. I cried in joy once again.
Each day was full of joy and excitement..." ［Falroe］
Her first smile, her first laugh, her first words, the first time she crawled and walked. Falroe mentioned all of Aria's firsts and the overflowing happiness he felt each time he saw his daughter grow.
Valka also shared the same sentiment with Falroe. As her mother, she also felt the same happiness everyday. While there were times she was angry and disappointed at her, such was parenting. She still loved her the same.
While Falroe looked calm and dignified while he was giving his speech, it couldn't be any further than reality. He was barely stopping himself from bawling once again. The more he remembered Aria's adorable past, the harder it was to hold his tears.
"And now, on this very day, my sweet baby's reached yet another stage of her life. Now, she has become a good man's wife. Yes, I'm a little lonely, but I am even happier. My daughter has grown so much...
Aria, no matter what happens, just know we will always love you and we will always be here for you, and Kris... I leave my daughter in your care. Make her the happiest woman in the world." ［Falroe］
Claps echoed as Falroe's speech ended. His eyes looking at Kris' direction, a gentle smile appeared as soon as he saw the gray-haired man nodded whilst holding his daughter's hand. He was satisfied.
After Falroe, it was Valka's turn to give her own piece. Just like Falroe, she also recalled her experiences as a mother leading up to this point. Next were Reina and Zeke, both announcing to the world how amazing their older sister was.
Attending as Kris' younger siblings, Grey and Yuna also gave their own speeches. They tackled the times they spent together. Although not often, and full of strange happenings, they were still memorable experiences nonetheless.
After the attending family members, other important guests gave their speeches. There was Rozelia, the captain of the guards Aria once hunted often with, and a couple more. Everybody's heart melted when Ruru gave a sweet speech of her own. It may not be appropriate, but it was still heartfelt.
"Make space for the bride and groom's first dance!"
The atmosphere quickly changed as music filled the air. Pianos, violins, flutes, and all sorts of instruments gave rise to a myriad of sounds, creating harmonies melodies which calmed the people's hearts.
"May I?" ［Kris］
"Furufu! You may..." ［Aria］
As Aria took Kris' hand, the two of them headed to the dance floor. Along with the song's lovely notes and rests, their footsteps filled the air as they danced fluidly like the gentle breeze flowing ever so gently and ever so gracefully.
Even though the dance floor was just makeshift, the ground simply hardened and polished with magic, it didn't affect the two's performance. They still danced as if they owned the stage, their gracefulness capturing everyone's eyes and hearts.
"Waah～! They look so perfect together!"
"How beautiful..."
Mouths opened and eyes stared in admiration as Kris and Aria continued to dance. The sun was still up in the sky, but at this very moment, the ones who shone the most were the two of them.
"Hahaha, I still remember the first time we danced together..." ［Kris］
"Kris, don't you dare bring it up...!" ［Aria］
"Haha, you were such a horrible dancer back then. I couldn't even remember how many times you've stepped on my feet," ［Kris］
"Kris...!" ［Aria］
Shouting while whispering at the same time. Aria's voice could be described in such a way as she gripped tighter on her man's sleeves. Her face was turning red as she recalled such embarrassing memories of the past.
While it is true that she was a genius at magic and combat, the same couldn't be said towards other aspects. The very first time she danced, it was nothing short of a disaster. She managed to step on her partner's foot every single time. Thankfully, that partner was Kris, otherwise, bones could have been broken.
"I could still remember how numb my feet were when we finished dancing. Ah, those were the dayー Agh!" ［Kris］
Kris couldn't even finish his words when a sudden pain cut him off. What pained was none other than his left foot where one could see a certain mark on his shoes as if a certain someone stepped on it, using their heel nonetheless.
When Kris raised his eyes, he was greeted by Aria's adorable sulking face, trying to look away from him. But even though she was looking away, she still remembered to dance properly and gracefully.
"Hey, Aria... That was intentional, wasn't it?" ［Kris］
"I don't know what you're talking about." ［Aria］
Kris asked to confirm but all he got was a spicy response. It has only been a little more than an hour since they were wed and they were already on their first argument. In a way, you could say they were an amazing couple.
"Then, you won't mind if I switch up the pace, do you?" ［Kris］
"Eh?" ［Aria］
Turning his words to reality, Kris drew Aria close to her until their faces were almost touching. He held him tighter and closer, to the latter's surprise, ending his playful actions with a mischievous smile on his face.
Twists and turns were made as Kris turned serious. He was like an instructor and Aria was his dancer as they danced on the spacious dance floor like birds flying freely in the sky, exuding an aura of nobility and gracefulness.
Time continued ticking and the song continued to play, Kris and Aria dancing in one another arms as if nothing in the world mattered. And as a finisher, a dip was made with their bodies leaning towards the ground, falling but not falling.
But the performance didn't end there, when suddenly, as Aria was still held in the same position, he gave her a kiss to her forehead, catching the latter off guard and making her red all the way to the tip of her ears. A mischievous smile could once again be seen on Kris' face.
Clap Clap Clap
Cheers and claps filled the air as Kris and Aria's dance ended, but the excitement didn't just end there. After their dance, two more figures made their entrance on the dance floor. It was Falroe and Valka, preparing for the dance with their parents.
Another song was played and new melodies filled the air. A new dance commenced with Kris and Aria dancing with their new partners. Kris now danced with Valka, whilst Falroe danced with Aria.
Each and every step was done with skillful execution and there wasn't a single mistake to be spotted. The song continued and silence could be observed, silence which was easily broken when Valka opened her mouth.
"Oh, it looks like our daughter married quite the excellent dancer." ［Valka］
"Hahaha, I'm flattered, Ma'am." ［Kris］
"No, not at all. It's not just empty flattery, I really mean it. Kris, you're a good dancer. You looked so good together with Aria." ［Valka］
"I see,.. Then I will accept the compliment, Ma'am. I'm really happy!" ［Kris］
A smile bloomed on Kris' face as he continued to dance with Valka. Although not as perfect as when he danced with Aria, they still danced beautifully, successfully garnering the attention of the crowd.
"Kris... I know that Falroe had already said it, but... I leave our sweet and lovable child in your care. Now, it's your turn to make her happy. I leave the rest to you." ［Valka］
"You can rest assured, Ma'am. Even if this body gets destroyed, I will do everything to protect her smile. You can rest easy." ［Kris］
"Fufufu, then it seems all my worries were needless, but Kris..." ［Valka］
"Yes...?" ［Kris］
"It's not 'Ma'am', but 'Mom'. We're family now!" ［Valka］
Kris froze at Valka's statement. While he was aware that he was already married, such a reality hasn't settled in yet. Now, Valka wasn't simply Aria's mother, he was now his mother-in-law, family.
"Yes, Mom..." ［Kris］
"Fufufu, that's more like it!" ［Valka］
An overflowing happiness surged inside Kris' heart as he continued to dance with Valka. He, who grew up an orphan, now has people he can proudly call his family. There was simply no greater joy to be felt.
Meanwhile, while Kris and Valka talked with one another, a certain, familiar cry rang inside their ears. The origin was none other than Falroe whose emotions were now laid out bare. Tears were now trickling down his face.
"My baby...! My sweet baby...! It feels like it was just yesterday when you called me 'Papa'...! Why did you get married?! Just why...?!" ［Falroe］
"Dad..." ［Aria］
It was quite the interesting sight and Aria could only utter the same words as before. Even though the wedding ceremony and speeches were already over, Falroe still found a way to cry about something. It was quite worrying.
Seconds flew by and the dance continued, filling the spectators with admiration and awe as they watched the four dance fluidly like that of flowing water. As the song ended, the movements stopped and they bowed their heads to their partners.
Clap Clap Clap Clap
A cacophony of claps and cheers echoed towards the sky once again as the four of them exited the stage. It was even much louder and chaotic than before. The effect when beautiful people dance with grace.
Well, if it were only adoration, none could beat Aria's younger brother, Zeke. His eyes were now sparkling like the sea under the midnight sky illuminated by the moon and stars. Amongst the people present, he was the biggest fan.
"Waah～! Big Sis Aria and Big Bro Kris looks so cool～!" ［Zeke］
"Fufufu, you really adore them, don't you?" ［Yuna］
"Yes! I adore them the most! One day, I also want to be as strong as them! Then I'll find myself a beautiful bride and also dance like that!" ［Zeke］
Eyes full of burning determination, Zeke declared ever so proudly. Now, it was not only their strength, he also wanted to follow their steps like a little child who mimics those around it. He saw everything about the two were dreamy and fascinating.
"Hahaha, then don't forget to invite us when the time comes, alright?" ［Grey］
"Of course! I'll make sure Big Bro Grey and Big Sis Yuna attend the wedding! And Big Sid Reina will make my bride's dress! It's going to be the best wedding in the entire world!" ［Zeke］
"Z-Zeke, the pressure's too much...!" ［Reina］
"Fufufu, I'm sure Reina can do it!" ［Yuna］
"Yuna..." ［Reina］
The daydreaming continued and Zeke's determination only grew stronger. He may act like an adult from time to time and gets serious during combat, but in times such as these, Grey and Yuna realized he was still a child.
Falroe and the others returned to their seats, and like an excited child greeting their parents who have come home, Zeke told them of his goals. They could only chuckle and giggle warmly as they listened attentively and cheerfully.
Chatter Chatter Chatter
A loud chattering echoed once again as another song was played. Now that the bride and groom had finished dancing the first dance, it was the turn for the attendees to dance with their chosen partners. The dance floor was open!
"Oi, Grey, Yuna. It's your turn to dance now. Show them how it's done." ［Kris］
"Oh? Are Grey and Yuna good dancers as well?" ［Valka］
"I want to see Big Bro Grey and Big Sis Yuna dancing!" ［Zeke］
"Hahaha, then I guess we have no choice then." ［Grey］
Not denying any of their claims, Grey only laughed heartily as he stood up from his seat. He fixed his clothes with a quick tug on his coat, taking only a single step before turning his body and extending his hands to a certain lovely lady.
"May I have this dance, Milady?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! With pleasure, Sir Grey." ［Yuna］
A smile on her face, Yuna happily accepted Grey's invitation as she offered her hand for him to take. The song has already played for some time, but that didn't matter. The two of them made their grand entrance.
Common courtesy in play, the two bowed their heads to one another before they started their dance. They then held each other's hands and letting the melody guide them, their steps echoed in the air.
When one stepped their foot forward, the other backed off the opposite foot. The twist, the turns, the spins and dips of every kind, there wasn't a single mistake to be spotted. They were like a prince and princess one would see in fairy tales, figures of art dancing ever so harmoniously.
"Hm? Have you been practicing? It seems like you've gotten better." ［Grey］
"Maybe, maybe not. Who knows?" ［Yuna］
"Acting mysterious, aren't we, Milady?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu, let's leave it at that, Sir Grey." ［Yuna］
The dance continued and so did their teasing. Rather than a couple dancing happily, they were like children simply playing with one another. They shone like the gentle raindrops after the rain, dancing by the wind and falling deeper and deeper to each other with every second.
Of course, it went without saying that they became the center of attention. As Yuna's silver flowed freely in the air, Grey's pitch black hair contrasted it as their jewel-like eyes shimmered brightly. They were beautiful, gorgeous even.
"So beautiful..." ［Reina］
One of those who were engrossed with their dance was Reina. Since she had nothing much to do, she decided to go around the reception venue, but as she did so, she was caught by Grey and Yuna's dancing, her eyes filled with awe.
"Ah!" ［Reina］
Although she walked slowly, due to her being distracted by them, she bumped into a person's shoulder before she noticed it. The other person, being bigger than she was, wasn't hurt that much. Rather, it was Reina who was as she fell flat towards the ground.
"Oh, sorry. Are you okay, Miss Reina?" ［???］
"N-No, I'm alright..." ［Reina］
It was as if time froze. Dark green hair fluttering in the wind, deep red eyes which resembled fragrant roses, and a face which looked like it was a finely-sculpted piece of art. Reina's heart was captured by the young man who offered his hand to her.
The young man was named Eldhart, one of the young trainees who will soon become one the villages' guards. With talent only Zeke could rival, he was the best amongst his peers. The perfect man young ladies would pine for.
"A-Ah, I'm alright! So-Sorry for bumping into you!" ［Reina］
"Ah, no... I should be the one sayingー" ［Eldhart］
"I-If you want s-something, please d-don't hesitate. I-I'll do my best to make it! I promise I-I'll make it up to you!" ［Reina］
Eldhart was stunned. He already knew that Reina was timid and meek, but he didn't know it was that bad. He couldn't even apologize properly, and even if he did, with Reina's responsibility, she would probably apologize even harder, and he was right.
No other choices left, Eldhart could only heave a silent sigh as he thought of what to do. Since Reina would push harder if he rejects her favor, he needs to think of a simple way which won't require much effort from her. It was then that an idea struck his mind like lightning.
"Then... If Miss Reina insists, can I have the pleasure of having your first dance?" ［Eldhart］
"M-Me?! B-But I'm not that good of a dancer..." ［Reina］
"Hahaha, that's alright. I'm not that much of a dancer either, that makes it the two of us. So, what do you say?" ［Eldhart］
"... T-Then i-if you would..." ［Reina］
A rosy tint painted on her cheeks, Reina meekly accepted Eldhart's invitation. Seeing her flushed face, Eldhart also started to feel embarrassed as a strange emotion brewed in his heart. A happy and confusing feeling. The blooming of a new flower.
CHAPTER 152 END