The Eryndor estate was a spectacle of grandeur. Banners in the family's colors adorned the walls, fountains sparkled with enchanted water, and every corner seemed to hum with the anticipation of the grand wedding. The ceremony was unlike any other, a testament to the influence and power of the Eryndor family.
Guests from every corner of the world gathered in the great hall, their voices filling the air. Dukes, barons, kings, and even envoys from distant lands arrived to witness the union. This was not just a wedding—it was a political and social event that reflected the Eryndor family's status as the most prominent household in the realm.
The Arrival of Guests
At the main gates, Basil's father, the head of the Eryndor family, stood alongside his wives to welcome the distinguished guests. His imposing figure radiated authority, and the sight of his wives—each breathtaking in their own right—reminded everyone of the family's unparalleled strength and unity.
The first to arrive was the King of the Empire, accompanied by his royal entourage. His presence alone was a testament to the importance of the event.
"It is an honor to be here," the King said, shaking hands with Basil's father.
"The honor is ours, Your Majesty," the patriarch replied with a polite smile.
As more guests arrived, the great hall filled with whispers.
"Look at that. Even the dragon emissaries from the eastern lands have come," one noble whispered.
"And the elven elders from the Silver Glades," another added.
The sheer diversity of attendees spoke volumes about the Eryndor family's reach.
The Bride's Entrance
Meanwhile, in a separate wing of the estate, Celeste prepared herself for the ceremony. Her bridal gown, an exquisite piece woven with threads of enchanted silver, shimmered in the light. Despite the beauty of her attire, her expression was unreadable.
"You look stunning, my lady," one of the attendants said nervously.
Celeste gave a faint smile. "Thank you."
Her mind, however, was elsewhere. She had overheard the whispers as she walked through the halls.
"Poor girl. She's marrying him."
"They say Basil is a monster in human form."
"She must be terrified."
The words stung, but Celeste's resolve was unwavering. She had her own reasons for agreeing to this marriage—reasons that went beyond politics or family pressure.
Joy and Whispers
In the main hall, the Eryndor children mingled with the guests, their presence drawing admiration and curiosity.
"Is that Lia and Selene, the twin prodigies?"
"And look, there's Aurelia, the healer with a touch of nature's grace."
"The youngest one—what's his name? Jasper? He already shows signs of greatness."
Despite the admiration for the rest of the family, the eldest son remained a topic of scorn.
"Basil might be strong, but strength means nothing without character," one guest murmured.
"True. He's a stain on the Eryndor name."
Unbeknownst to them, Basil stood nearby, overhearing every word. He didn't react, his expression as calm as ever. Lira, standing beside him, glanced up at him.
"Are you alright, Master Basil?" she asked quietly.
"Let them talk," he replied. "They'll see soon enough."
The Ceremony Begins
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the ceremony began. Basil took his place at the altar, his imposing figure clad in ceremonial armor that shimmered with enchantments. His gaze was steady, betraying none of the turmoil within.
The grand doors opened, and Celeste stepped into the hall. A collective gasp echoed through the crowd. Her beauty was undeniable, but it was the aura she carried—graceful yet powerful—that left an impression.
Basil's siblings, seated in the front row, exchanged glances. Even Lia and Selene, who still held some hostility toward their older brother, couldn't help but acknowledge the presence of his bride.
As Celeste approached the altar, their eyes met for the first time since the baron's visit. Basil's earlier words echoed in his mind.
Beautiful.
For a moment, the whispers and judgments faded. There was only the two of them, standing at the center of a grand stage.
To Be Continued