The day of the wedding arrived with an air of excitement and quiet anticipation. The Eryndor estate, though not decked out in the grandeur of Basil's previous marriage to Celeste, still shone with elegance and warmth. Guests arrived in small but meaningful numbers—close allies, family friends, and a handful of loyal retainers who had watched Lira's unwavering loyalty to Basil over the years.
The ceremony was held in the estate's garden, a place of serene beauty with blooming flowers and softly swaying trees. A makeshift altar stood at the center, adorned with crimson and gold ribbons. The modest decorations reflected not only the humility of Lira's origins but also the deep respect the family held for her.
Lady Anarya, with her dragon-like grace, oversaw the arrangements, ensuring every detail was perfect. Freya, her excitement boundless, flitted between the guests, proudly proclaiming that her new sister was "the nicest and bravest" person she knew. Lady Elira and Lady Selene worked quietly in the background, their presence lending an understated elegance to the occasion.
When the ceremony began, all eyes turned to Lira. She emerged, escorted by Freya, whose small horns and tail added an endearing charm to the scene. Lira's crimson gown shimmered in the sunlight, and her steps, though hesitant, carried a newfound confidence. Whispers of admiration rippled through the crowd, even from those who had doubted her place in the family.
At the altar, Basil stood tall, his commanding presence undeniable. Dressed in ceremonial attire that combined the colors of the family crest, he radiated pride and conviction. As Lira approached, their eyes met, and a rare softness crossed his otherwise steely gaze.
The vows were simple but heartfelt. Basil spoke with his characteristic intensity, his words carrying the weight of unspoken promises. "Lira, you have been my strength when I faltered, my shield when I faced scorn. Today, I honor you not as a servant but as my equal, my wife."
Lira's voice trembled as she replied, "My lord—Basil—you have given me purpose and a place to belong. I vow to stand by you, not as a maid but as someone who will always believe in you."
The ceremony concluded with cheers and applause, and as Basil and Lira turned to face the gathering, Freya dashed forward to hug them both. "Now we're really a family!" she exclaimed, earning laughter from the crowd.
The Bridal Night
As the festivities wound down and the last of the guests departed, the weight of the day finally settled on Lira. She sat in her room, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. The gown she had worn earlier had been replaced with a simpler dress, yet her heart raced with anticipation and anxiety. Tonight marked not just the start of her marriage but a profound shift in her life.
A knock at the door broke her thoughts. Celeste entered, her expression warm and reassuring. "Lira," she said, sitting beside her, "I know this must feel overwhelming. But you've earned this happiness. Basil may seem intimidating, but he values you more than you realize."
Lira's eyes filled with unshed tears. "I'm afraid," she admitted. "Not of him, but of failing him."
Celeste took her hand, squeezing it gently. "You've never failed him, Lira. That's why you're here. Just be yourself. He doesn't need perfection—he needs you."