VOWS AND REVELATIONS
April 22, 1986 — Draiocht, Aelin
The morning of the wedding dawned clear and bright, the lavender sky giving way to pale gold as the sun rose over the scholarly county of Draiocht. In Nathan's residence, a comfortable home near Daerdon University that balanced his role as Conjurer with his work as Headmaster, the groom was attempting to get dressed while simultaneously having a minor panic attack.
Nathan stood in front of his bedroom mirror, staring at the formal Aelinian wedding attire laid out on his bed. The black coat was magnificent: long, elegant, covered in intricate red embroidery that swirled in patterns reminiscent of flames. His garnet Conjurer amulet gleamed against the dark fabric of the shirt beneath. And beside it all, the half-circlet crown that marked him as Governor of Draiocht: elegant silver with small garnets set along the band.
He'd been staring at it all for ten minutes.
His hands were shaking.
A knock at the door made him jump.
"Nathan?" Connor's voice, gentle and knowing. "Can we come in?"
"Yeah," Nathan managed, his voice rougher than he'd intended.
The door opened, and the Brotherhood filed in: Jace first, already dressed in his formal groomsman attire (black with silver-white opal embroidery), followed by Connor (emerald green embroidery matching his Visionary amulet), Erik (sapphire blue for the Warrior), and Ricky (silver thread embroidery for the Sentinel).
They all looked magnificent. And they all looked concerned.
"You're not dressed," Jace observed quietly.
"I'm aware," Nathan said.
"The wedding is in two hours," Erik added.
"Also aware."
Connor came over and put a hand on Nathan's shoulder.
"What's going on, brother?"
Nathan exhaled shakily.
"What if I'm not good enough for her?"
The room went very quiet.
"Explain," Jace said, his Guardian instincts immediately on alert for whatever was causing his brother distress.
"Galena is... she's the Prime Minister of Aelin. She's brilliant, beautiful, fierce, capable. She runs an entire government. She negotiates with world leaders. She..." Nathan's voice cracked. "And I'm just... I argue with her about agricultural policy. I set my own pants on fire during training. I'm awkward at state functions. What if I'm not..."
"Stop." Erik's voice was firm but not harsh. "Right there. Stop."
Nathan looked at him, startled.
Erik stepped forward, his massive frame somehow making the room feel safer rather than smaller.
"Nathan. You are the Conjurer of the Brotherhood of Aelin. You command all four elements. You're the Headmaster of Daerdon University. You're one of the most intelligent people I've ever met. And more importantly..." He paused. "You make Galena laugh. You challenge her. You support her. You love her so completely that everyone in a hundred-foot radius can feel it."
"He's right," Connor added, his Visionary senses giving him certainty. "I've seen the threads of possibility around you two. You're not just compatible: you're essential to each other. She needs you as much as you need her."
Ricky bounded forward with his characteristic enthusiasm.
"Plus, you guys have the best arguments. They're like watching a very sexy chess match."
"Ricky," Nathan said, but he was almost smiling.
"What? It's true! You argue about policy and then you kiss and everyone watching is like 'oh, THAT'S what passion looks like.'"
Jace moved to Nathan's side, his amber-gold eyes warm.
"Nathan. Do you love her?"
"More than anything."
"Does she love you?"
"Yes."
"Then that's all that matters." Jace picked up the formal coat from the bed. "Now let us help you get dressed, because you're getting married in two hours and Galena is not the kind of woman who appreciates being kept waiting."
Nathan laughed, a real laugh, shaky but genuine.
"No. No, she's not."
"Also," Connor added helpfully, "if you leave her at the altar, she'll probably declare war on you."
"She's the Prime Minister," Nathan pointed out. "She can't declare war on a single person."
"She'll find a way," Erik said solemnly. "She's very resourceful."
That broke the tension. Nathan laughed again, and this time it stuck. His brothers surrounded him, helping him into the formal attire: adjusting the coat, making sure the embroidery lay properly, ensuring the garnet amulet was visible and positioned correctly. Jace carefully placed the half-circlet crown on Nathan's head, adjusting it so it sat properly.
"There," Jace said finally, stepping back to assess. "You look like the Governor of Draiocht about to marry the Prime Minister of Aelin."
Nathan turned back to the mirror. The reflection was confident, elegant, ready. The red embroidery against the black fabric was striking, the garnet amulet gleaming at his throat, the silver half-circlet crown marking his position as Governor. He looked like the Conjurer. Like a groom. Like someone worthy of Galena Slotskya.
"Thank you," he said quietly. "All of you."
"That's what brothers are for," Connor said, grinning. "Talking you off ledges and making sure you don't accidentally set yourself on fire before your own wedding."
"That was ONE TIME..."
"And we'll never let you forget it," Ricky finished cheerfully.
Before anyone could respond, there was another knock at the door, more energetic this time, almost eager.
"That'll be them," Nathan said, his face brightening.
The door opened, and the Dallenger family swept in.
Betty Dallenger was a warm, elegant woman in her late fifties, wearing a beautiful dress in deep blue. The moment she saw Nathan, standing there in his formal black coat with red embroidery, the half-circlet crown on his head, looking every inch the Governor and Conjurer, her face crumpled with joy. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she came to him.
"Oh, Nathan," she breathed, pulling him into a tight embrace. "My beautiful boy. Look at you."
"Hi, Mom," Nathan said softly, hugging her back. "Don't cry, you'll ruin your makeup."
"I don't care," Betty sobbed happily against his shoulder. "My son is getting married!"
Behind her, Alan Dallenger stood beaming with such fierce pride that it seemed his jacket buttons might burst off. He was tall, Nathan got his height from somewhere, with the same sandy hair (though Alan's was streaked with distinguished gray) and the same blue eyes. All four Dallenger sons had inherited their father's features.
"Son," Alan said, his voice thick with emotion as Betty finally released Nathan. He gripped Nathan's shoulders, looking him up and down with paternal pride.
"You look magnificent. The Governor of Draiocht. The Conjurer of the Brotherhood." He shook his head in wonder. "Your mother and I couldn't be prouder."
"Thanks, Dad," Nathan managed, his own throat tight.
Then his brothers descended on him, all three at once.
Nolan came first, and the resemblance was startling. He was only a year younger than Nathan, and they looked so similar they were constantly mistaken for twins back in Reno. Same height, same build, same sandy hair and blue eyes, same intelligent expression. Nolan pulled Nathan into a fierce hug.
"You look amazing, big brother," Nolan said. "Galena's a lucky woman."
"I think I'm the lucky one," Nathan replied.
Michael was next, quieter, more reserved, with a poet's gentle soul. He hugged Nathan tightly but said nothing at first, just held on before pulling back with shining eyes.
"I'm so happy for you," Michael said softly. "You deserve this. You deserve her."
"Thanks, Mike," Nathan said, gripping his brother's shoulder.
And then there was Riley.
At seventeen, Riley Dallenger was pure enthusiastic energy barely contained in a formal suit. He practically bounced across the room, his eyes bright with excitement.
"NATHAN!" Riley grabbed him in an exuberant hug. "Dude, this is SO COOL! A State Wedding in a magical kingdom! And the ARMOR, did you see all the armor in the hallways?! And the castle! And the SKY... the sky is PURPLE, Nathan! PURPLE!" He was talking at approximately ninety miles per hour. "And everyone's so nice, and the food smells amazing, and I still can't believe this is real, it's like living in a dream!"
From across the room, Ricky's head snapped up, his eyes locking onto Riley with instant recognition. Another force of nature. Another chaos engine. A kindred spirit.
"Oh no," Connor muttered. "There's two of them now."
"I KNOW, RIGHT?!" Ricky bounded over to Riley, matching his energy perfectly. "The armor is SICK! And wait until you see the Great Hall for the reception... there are BANNERS and..."
"I saw some of the banners! The garnet ones! They're so cool!" Riley interrupted excitedly.
"And the FOOD..."
"The food smells INCREDIBLE..."
They were talking over each other now, both gesturing wildly, both grinning like maniacs.
Erik leaned toward Jace and whispered, "Should we be concerned?"
"Probably," Jace replied, watching the two with mild alarm.
Nathan laughed, a genuine, full laugh that broke through the last of his nervousness. His family was here. His Brotherhood was here. In a few hours, he'd marry Galena. Everything was perfect.
Alan clapped his hands together.
"All right, boys. Let's let Nathan finish preparing. We need to get to the Chapel."
"We'll see you there, honey," Betty said, kissing Nathan's cheek one more time. "I love you so much."
"Love you too, Mom."
His family filed out: Nolan giving him one last nod, Michael squeezing his shoulder, Riley still chattering excitedly with Ricky about something involving suits of armor and "that really cool sword display."
As the door closed, another knock came immediately.
Sidney Greene stuck his head in.
"Gentlemen. The portal to Harmonytis opens in thirty minutes. Are we ready?"
"We're ready," Jace confirmed.
Sidney's gaze swept over Nathan, and something in the older trainer's expression softened.
"You look good, Nathan. I'm proud of you, son."
Nathan's throat tightened.
"Thank you, Sidney."
"Now come on. We've got a wedding to get to."
Harmonytis — The Prime Minister's Residence
On the other side of Aelin, in the elegant quarters reserved for the Prime Minister in Harmonytis, Galena Slotskya was having a much calmer morning.
She sat at her vanity while Indira Saatva, her maid of honor and one of her closest friends, carefully arranged her golden-blonde hair into an intricate updo. Around them, the other maids moved with practiced efficiency: Samantha Wallace adjusting the cream-colored silk of Galena's wedding gown, making sure the gold embroidery on the skirt lay perfectly; Yara checking the long cathedral veil; Daria ensuring the red ribbon accents at the sleeves were properly secured.
All four maids wore elegant gowns in deep garnet, the same rich red as Nathan's embroidery, the color of his amulet. They looked stunning, a unified presence of support and joy.
"You're very calm," Indira observed, securing another pin in Galena's hair.
"Should I not be?" Galena asked, her Russian accent coloring the words with amusement.
"Most brides are nervous."
"I am not most brides." Galena met Indira's eyes in the mirror. "I have negotiated with heads of state. I have managed economic crises. I have dealt with the Aelinian Congress during budget season. Getting married to Nathan is not frightening. It is joy."
Samantha smiled as she adjusted the final fold of the gown's train.
"That's a good attitude to have."
"You would know," Galena said, amusement in her eyes. "Congratulations are in order, yes?"
Samantha's cheeks flushed, her hand moving unconsciously to her chest, near where the Guardian amulet had been when Jace proposed.
"Thank you. We're keeping it quiet for now. No official announcement yet."
"But you are happy," Galena said. It wasn't a question.
"Happier than I ever thought possible," Samantha admitted softly.
"Good." Galena's expression was genuinely pleased. "Jace deserves happiness. You both do."
"The official announcement will come eventually," Indira added from where she was adjusting Galena's veil. "But for now, let them have this time together without the weight of ceremony."
"Da," Galena agreed. "There will be time enough for Royal weddings and state functions. For now, just be happy."
"We're taking things slowly. With everything going on..."
"Slow is good," Galena said with a smile. "Let things unfold naturally. You have time."
The women laughed warmly, the sound filling the room as they completed the final preparations.
Indira secured the final pin and stepped back.
"There. Perfect."
Galena stood and moved to the full-length mirror. The woman who looked back at her was breathtaking: the cream gown with its gold embroidery elegant and regal, the long veil cascading behind her. Her throat was bare, prepared for the Votaress amulet she would receive during the ceremony. She looked like a Prime Minister. Like a bride. Like someone about to marry the love of her life.
"Nathan is going to cry when he sees you," Samantha predicted.
"Good," Galena said with satisfaction. "He should cry. I plan to be stunning."
"Mission accomplished," Yara confirmed.
Another knock at the door, gentler this time. Indira opened it to reveal Betty Dallenger, Nathan's mother, standing in the doorway with a warm smile and tears already shining in her eyes.
"Mrs. Dallenger," Galena said, surprised but pleased. "Please, come in."
Betty entered, her elegant blue dress rustling as she crossed to where Galena stood. She took both of Galena's hands in hers, studying her face with maternal affection.
"I hope you don't mind me coming," Betty said softly. "I know it's not traditional in Aelinian weddings, but in America, the groom's mother often visits the bride before the ceremony. And I... I wanted a moment with you."
"I am honored," Galena replied sincerely.
Betty's eyes grew misty.
"I have four sons. Four wonderful boys who have filled my life with joy and chaos and love. But I never had a daughter." She squeezed Galena's hands gently. "Until today. Today I'm gaining the daughter I always hoped for. Welcome to our family, Galena. You're not alone anymore."
Galena's eyes shone with emotion, though she maintained her composure. Her voice was steady but soft when she spoke.
"Thank you. That means... more than you know. My parents are gone. I have no siblings. For so long, I have had only my work, my responsibilities." She paused, swallowing against the tightness in her throat. "To have a family again..."
"You have one now," Betty said. "The Dallengers are your family. Alan and I, the boys, all of us. You'll never be alone again."
Betty reached into her small purse and withdrew a delicate pin, an exquisite aquamarine dove, the stone a beautiful pale blue that caught the light.
"In American wedding tradition, a bride should have something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. This pin..." She held it up, the aquamarine gleaming. "This is my birthstone. I wore it on my own wedding day, thirty-four years ago. I always thought I would give it to a daughter on her wedding day, but..." She smiled through her tears. "I never had a daughter. Until now."
Galena's hand went to her heart, deeply moved.
"Mrs. Dallenger... Betty... I cannot..."
"You can, and you will," Betty said. "May I?"
Galena nodded, too emotional to speak.
Betty carefully pinned the aquamarine dove to Galena's gown, just above her heart. Her fingers were gentle, motherly, as she made sure it was secure. When she stepped back, the pale blue stone gleamed against the cream silk, something blue, something precious, a declaration: you are family now.
"Perfect," Betty whispered. She cupped Galena's face in her hands, the gesture so motherly that Galena felt tears prick at her eyes.
"My son loves you so much. And now, so do I. Welcome to the family, daughter."
Galena embraced her, holding on tightly.
"Thank you," she whispered in Betty's ear. "Thank you for raising such a wonderful man. Thank you for welcoming me. Thank you for... for being a mother to me again."
When they pulled apart, both women were wiping their eyes and laughing softly at their tears. The maids were dabbing at their own eyes, even practical Yara looked misty.
"Now," Betty said, composing herself with a smile. "Let's get you married to my son. He's probably wearing a hole in the floor with his pacing."
"He is very good at overthinking," Galena agreed, warmth in her voice.
Betty kissed her cheek one last time, then headed for the door. She paused at the threshold, looking back.
"By the way, Nathan will recognize that pin. He'll know what it means. That you're one of us now."
Then she was gone, leaving Galena standing before the mirror, the aquamarine dove pinned above her heart, her eyes bright with emotion and joy.
A knock at the door, and Galena's chief of staff entered, a composed woman named Petra who'd been with her since the beginning of her term.
"Prime Minister. The portal to the castle opens in twenty minutes. Are you ready?"
Galena took one last look in the mirror, then turned to face her maids, her friends.
"Yes. I am ready."
Indira handed her the bouquet: red and white roses, garnet and cream, perfectly arranged.
"Then let's get you married."
They processed out of the residence together, moving through streets where citizens had gathered to cheer and throw flowers. Galena smiled and waved, her heart light, her steps sure.
Today she was marrying Nathan Dallenger.
Today was going to be perfect.
The Grand Chapel — The Ceremony
The Grand Chapel within the castle had been transformed into something that balanced grandeur with intimacy. Garnet-colored silk banners hung along the walls, alongside cream and gold streamers that caught the light. Fresh flowers from the countryside of Neart filled the space with soft fragrance: white roses and red peonies arranged in elegant displays. The stained glass windows cast colored light across the stone floor, depicting scenes from Aelinian history, and the lavender sky beyond gave everything a dreamlike quality.
It was a State Wedding, not a Royal Wedding, significant and formal, but not as elaborate as a Royal ceremony would be. The Aelinian Congress was in attendance, along with key government officials, military leaders, university faculty, and close friends. Rows of wooden pews were filled with guests dressed in their finest.
Near the front, the Brotherhood stood in their positions as groomsmen. Jace, as High King, would have a special role in the ceremony. Connor stood as Nathan's best man, closest to where the groom would stand. Erik and Ricky completed the line, all of them in formal black coats with embroidery matching their amulets: opal-silver, emerald, sapphire, and silver.
On the bride's side, four maids stood in garnet-colored gowns: Indira as maid of honor, with Samantha, Yara, and Daria beside her.
The assembly rose as music began, traditional Aelinian strings, rich and resonant.
The groom's family processed first, as was proper. An usher escorted Nolan Dallenger down the aisle, and more than one guest did a double-take at how much he resembled Nathan. Then came Michael, quiet and composed, followed by Riley, who was clearly trying very hard to walk sedately but whose excitement was barely contained. All three took their seats in the front row on the groom's side.
Then came the moment Nathan had been both anticipating and dreading, walking down the aisle himself.
But he wasn't alone.
Betty and Alan Dallenger appeared at the entrance with their eldest son between them. Betty had her hand tucked into Nathan's left arm, Alan held his right, and the three of them began the walk together. Nathan wore the formal black coat with intricate red embroidery that swirled like flames across the fabric, his garnet amulet gleaming at his throat, and the half-circlet crown of the Governor of Draiocht on his head. His sandy hair was neatly styled beneath the crown, his blue eyes bright with emotion.
Betty was crying, happy tears she made no effort to hide. Alan was beaming with such pride that several guests in the back rows smiled just witnessing it. And Nathan walked between them, flanked by the people who had raised him, who had supported him even when they learned their son was something more than human, who loved him unconditionally.
Sidney Greene, watching from his seat, smiled. He had trained Nathan, had been his mentor in the Brotherhood. But these were Nathan's parents. This was as it should be.
When they reached the altar, Betty kissed Nathan's cheek, whispering something only he could hear. Alan gripped his son's shoulder one last time, his eyes shining. Then they took their seats in the front row with their other sons, and Nathan turned to face the altar alone.
Connor moved to stand at his right hand as best man. The other groomsmen, Jace, Erik, and Ricky, flanked them, a show of Brotherhood unity.
Then the music shifted, a new melody, softer and sweeter.
Galena appeared at the entrance.
The entire assembly drew breath.
She was breathtaking.
The wedding gown was an elegant fusion of Russian and Aelinian design: cream-colored silk with exquisite gold embroidery flowing down the skirt in intricate patterns. The bodice was adorned with delicate beading that caught the light with every movement, and the long sleeves featured red ribbon accents that matched Nathan's embroidery perfectly. A cathedral-length veil cascaded behind her, edged with more gold embroidery. Her throat was bare, prepared for the sacred bestowal to come.
In her hands, she carried a bouquet of red and white roses: garnet and cream, love and purity, perfectly arranged.
But it was her face that captured the room: joy, pure and unguarded, as she walked down the aisle toward the man waiting for her.
Nathan stood transfixed, tears already streaming down his face. He made no attempt to hide them, didn't even seem aware of them. His entire focus was on Galena, on the woman he loved walking toward him in the morning light.
Then he saw it, a glint of pale blue against the cream silk of her gown. The aquamarine dove. His mother's pin. The one she'd worn on her own wedding day. The one she'd always said she would give to her daughter.
Nathan's breath caught, and fresh tears spilled down his cheeks. His mother had given Galena the pin. Had welcomed her into the family. Had claimed her as the daughter she'd never had.
She's ours now, the gesture said. She's family.
Jace, standing with his brothers, felt his own throat tighten. This was what they'd fought for. This moment of pure happiness, untouched by darkness or danger. Just love, witnessed and celebrated.
Galena reached the altar. Nathan stepped forward to meet her, offering his hand. She took it without hesitation, her fingers lacing with his, and they turned together to face Magistrate Kovar, a senior member of the Aelinian Congress who had been chosen to officiate.
Magistrate Kovar smiled at them both, then addressed the assembly in a voice that carried through the Chapel.
"We are gathered on this day to witness the union of two extraordinary individuals. Galena Irena Slotskya, Prime Minister of Aelin, daughter of the late Premier Dmitri Slotskya. And Nathaneal Alan Dallenger, Governor of Draiocht, Headmaster of Daerdon University, Conjurer of the Brotherhood of Aelin."
He paused, letting the weight of the moment settle over the gathered witnesses.
"Marriage is both a personal commitment and a public covenant. Today, before this assembly and before the traditions of Aelin, these two individuals pledge themselves to one another: in partnership, in love, and in the sacred bonds that unite all who choose to walk through life together."
Nathan and Galena turned to face each other fully, hands still joined, eyes locked.
"Nathan," Magistrate Kovar continued, "do you take Galena as your wife? Do you promise to stand beside her in times of peace and in times of challenge? To honor her strength, to support her dreams, to cherish her heart, and to love her with your whole being for all the days of your life?"
Nathan's voice was steady despite the emotion shining in his eyes.
"I do. With everything I am, with everything I have, I do."
"Galena, do you take Nathan as your husband? Do you promise to stand beside him in times of peace and in times of challenge? To honor his mind, to support his work, to cherish his heart, and to love him with your whole being for all the days of your life?"
Galena's smile was radiant, her Russian accent warming the words.
"Da. I do. Always and forever."
They exchanged rings: simple bands of gold with small garnets set into Nathan's and small sapphires set into Galena's, representing both their individual paths and their shared future.
Then came the moment that made this not just a wedding, but a sacred bestowal.
From his pocket, Nathan withdrew a velvet pouch. His hands trembled as he opened it, revealing the Votaress amulet he had crafted himself: a magnificent garnet, deep and rich as his own Conjurer stone, surrounded by a constellation of brilliant diamonds that caught the light from the stained glass windows. The chain was delicate but strong, wrought of silver that gleamed like moonlight.
The Chapel went silent, every eye fixed on the sacred moment about to unfold.
Nathan held the amulet up, bringing it close to his own garnet Conjurer amulet that hung at his throat. The moment the two stones came near each other, both began to glow: a warm, pulsing light that grew brighter with each heartbeat. The garnets blazed with inner fire, red and gold and orange, like embers given life.
A soft gasp rippled through the assembly. Even those who had witnessed such bestowals before were moved by the beauty of it: the visible manifestation of magical connection, of power shared and love acknowledged.
Nathan touched the Votaress amulet to his lips, his voice carrying through the hushed Chapel with reverence.
"Together we share love and laughter, and today, I give you this amulet so that you also share my fire and strength, for all the days of our lives together."
Indira stepped forward gracefully, lifting the back of Galena's long veil with gentle hands so Nathan could reach her bare throat.
Nathan moved behind Galena, the glowing amulet held carefully in his hands. He placed the chain around her neck, his fingers brushing her skin as he fastened the clasp. The moment the Votaress amulet settled against her chest, the glow intensified: a brilliant flash of garnet light that filled the Chapel for a heartbeat before settling into a steady, warm radiance.
Galena drew in a sharp breath. She could feel it: the connection, the warmth, the sense of Nathan's presence now woven into the core of her being. Not overwhelming, but constant. A comfort. A strength. A partnership made manifest in magic and metal.
Nathan came back around to face her, and they simply looked at each other: husband and wife, Conjurer and Votaress, two souls bound not just by love but by the ancient magic of Aelin itself.
The amulet glowed softly against Galena's chest, the garnets and diamonds catching the colored light from the windows, and when she reached up to touch it with wondering fingers, Nathan's element thrummed within the stone, warm and alive against her fingertips.
Fire and strength. Love and laughter. All the days of their lives.
Magistrate Kovar's voice was thick with emotion as he spoke the final words.
"By the power vested in me by the Aelinian Congress and the people of this nation," he declared, "I pronounce you husband and wife. Nathaneal, you may kiss your bride."
Nathan cupped Galena's face in his hands with such tenderness that half the assembly reached for handkerchiefs. He kissed her slowly, reverently, as if she were the most precious thing in the world. When they broke apart, both of them were smiling through tears.
"I present to you," Magistrate Kovar announced to the assembly, "Mr. and Mrs. Dallenger!"
The Chapel erupted in applause. The Brotherhood was the loudest: Ricky was outright cheering, Erik was clapping hard enough to make the sound reverberate, and Connor was grinning so wide his face might split. Jace clapped steadily, his amber-gold eyes bright with happiness for his brother.
From the maids' side, Samantha caught Jace's gaze and smiled. He smiled back, that smile that was only for her, the one that undid her every single time.
Nathan and Galena walked back down the aisle together, hand in hand, and the look they shared was one of pure, uncomplicated joy. Outside, throughout Harmonytis, church bells began to ring, announcing the marriage to the entire city, to all of Aelin.
The Conjurer had married the Prime Minister.
And the island celebrated.
The Reception
The reception that followed was elegant and joyful, held in the Great Hall which had been transformed for celebration. The same garnet banners from the Chapel now adorned the vaulted ceiling here, alongside additional decorations. Tables laden with food from across Aelin: fish from Harmonytis, bread from Neart, fruits from across the counties. Wine flowed freely, laughter echoed off the ancient stones, and the atmosphere was one of pure celebration.
But the moment everyone had been waiting for came when the music began for the first dance.
Nathan led Galena onto the floor, and the assembly quieted to watch. The orchestra began a traditional Aelinian waltz: gentle, romantic, timeless. Nathan placed one hand at Galena's waist, took her other hand in his, and they began to move.
"You're doing great," Galena murmured as they turned across the floor.
"I'm counting in my head," Nathan admitted quietly. "And praying I don't step on your dress."
"You overthink everything, husband."
"You married me knowing this, wife."
She laughed, bright, full, filling the room, and pressed closer to him. They moved together with surprising grace, and when the waltz ended, the Hall erupted in applause.
Nathan kissed Galena again, brief, tender, and then stepped back as tradition required.
Because now came the State Wedding custom.
Jace rose from his seat and walked onto the floor. As High King of Aelin, he had the honor, and the responsibility, of the second dance. The King's Dance with the bride was an ancient tradition, a symbol of unity between the Crown and the government, between the Guardian and the Prime Minister.
At the tables, the Brotherhood exchanged glances.
"Oh no," Nathan murmured. "The King's Dance."
"Is that... does Jace have to dance?" Ricky asked, looking concerned. "Like, actually dance?"
"It's tradition," Erik confirmed. "The King always dances with the bride at a State Wedding."
Connor winced.
"This could be... interesting."
"Interesting?" Ricky snorted. "Man, he's a drummer. Drummers can't dance to save their lives. I've seen him trip over his own feet walking across flat ground."
"Maybe it'll be a slow song," Nathan said hopefully. "Just swaying back and forth. He can handle that."
The orchestra shifted to a new piece: a Russian waltz, chosen to honor Galena's heritage and her late father. The opening notes of Khachaturian's Waltz from Masquerade filled the Hall, romantic and sweeping and achingly beautiful.
And complex. Very, very complex.
"Oh God," Erik breathed. "That's a waltz."
"He's doomed," Ricky said, leaning forward with the fascination of someone about to witness a spectacular disaster.
Jace offered Galena his hand with a slight bow.
"Prime Minister. May I have this dance?"
Galena's smile was warm and genuine, and knowing.
"Your Majesty. I would be honored."
She'd asked him about this weeks ago, concerned about the traditional King's Dance. He'd assured her he could handle it. She'd believed him.
His brothers clearly did not.
They took position on the floor: proper ballroom stance, formal and elegant.
"Oh no, look at that stance," Ricky muttered. "That's too confident. He's going to fall on his…"
And then they began to move.
Jace led with total confidence, his frame solid, his movements fluid and precise. He guided Galena through the opening sequence of the waltz with practiced ease: a turn, a sweep, perfect posture maintained throughout. His footwork was impeccable, his timing flawless.
At the tables, the Brotherhood's jaws dropped simultaneously.
"What the..." Nathan started.
"Holy shit," Ricky breathed, his eyes wide. "Jace is good."
"Good?" Erik corrected, watching in disbelief. "He's incredible. Look at that technique!"
On the floor, Jace guided Galena through a complex series of turns, their movements perfectly synchronized. He led her with the kind of assurance that only came from years of training, spinning her gracefully before bringing her back into position. Galena followed effortlessly, clearly enjoying herself, her eyes bright with it.
"I don't understand," Ricky said, still staring. "How... when... what?"
Connor was watching with a peculiar expression on his face, surprise mixed with growing understanding.
"His mother," he said quietly. "I remember now. She made him take lessons with her when he was younger. I heard him mention it once, years ago, but I never..." He shook his head. "I never actually saw him dance."
"His mother made him learn ballroom dancing?" Nathan asked, unable to look away from the floor where Jace was executing a perfect promenade.
"She needed a partner," Connor explained. "Started when he was fourteen, I think. But I had no idea he was this good."
"This good?" Ricky's voice had climbed an octave. "Connor, he's REALLY good. Like, competition good!"
As if to prove the point, Jace led Galena through a particularly elegant sequence, their movements so smooth and synchronized they might as well have been one person. The romantic swell of the music matched their steps perfectly.
"So let me get this straight," Ricky said, his mind clearly working through this revelation. "Jace is an incredible drummer..."
"Yes," Erik confirmed.
"A fantastic vocalist..."
"Also yes."
"AND a professionally-trained ballroom dancer?"
"Apparently."
"Triple threat," Ricky declared. Then realization struck him.
"Wait, wait. He's also the best actor among us. That poker face? That 'I'm definitely not the High King of a magical island' face he pulls during interviews? That's ACTING."
"Quadruple threat," Connor said, starting to grin despite his amazement.
"QUADRUPLE THREAT!" Ricky announced loudly enough that several nearby tables turned to look. "Is there anything he CAN'T do?!"
On the dance floor, Jace's lips twitched, he'd heard that, of course he had, but he maintained his composure, continuing to lead Galena through the elegant Russian waltz. He executed a final spin, brought Galena back into position for the closing steps, and finished the dance perfectly on the last note of music.
The Hall erupted in applause.
When it died down, Jace bowed formally.
"Thank you for the dance, Prime Minister."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Galena replied, her eyes twinkling with amusement. She'd clearly enjoyed watching his brothers' reactions from the dance floor.
"That was lovely. Your mother taught you well."
"She did," Jace said softly, warmth in his voice despite the lingering grief. He had loved his mother fiercely, and she had loved him. The ballroom training had been one of their connections, something beautiful they'd shared together.
Galena squeezed his hand once, understanding the complicated mixture of love and loss in those simple words, then released him and turned back to Nathan, who was waiting at the edge of the floor with a smile that mixed pride, amazement, and mild betrayal.
"You never told us," Nathan said as Galena reached him.
"You never asked," Jace replied with a slight shrug.
"I'm having an identity crisis," Ricky announced to anyone who would listen. "I thought I knew him. Turns out my drummer friend is secretly Fred Astaire."
"Who?" Erik asked.
"Exactly my point!"
The orchestra continued playing, and other couples began to join the floor. Connor offered his hand to Indira, and they moved together with easy familiarity. Erik, surprising no one after what they'd just witnessed, led Rebekah onto the floor with unexpected gentleness for such a large man. Ricky swept Leilani into his arms and immediately started showing off, spinning her until she laughed breathlessly, though his dancing, while enthusiastic, bore no resemblance to Jace's technical perfection.
And Jace turned to find Samantha.
She was standing near their table, watching him with a smile that was equal parts impressed and amused. She wore a garnet-colored gown like the other maids, but somehow she looked more beautiful than anyone else in the room.
"Would you like to dance?" he asked, offering his hand.
"With the quadruple threat himself?" Samantha's eyes sparkled with amusement. "How could I refuse?"
He led her onto the floor, one hand finding hers, the other resting lightly at her waist. The orchestra was playing another waltz, gentler than the Russian piece, perfect for the growing crowd of dancers.
They began to move, and it was effortless. They'd worked together long enough that physical coordination came naturally, but this was different. This was intimate. His hand at her waist, her hand on his shoulder, their bodies moving in perfect synchronization.
"I didn't know you could dance like this," Samantha murmured.
"My mother's doing," Jace explained. "She made me take lessons with her from the time I was fourteen. We even competed."
"Did you win?"
"Sometimes." He turned her smoothly through a rotation. "She was a difficult partner: demanding, perfectionist. But she taught me well."
"I'm glad she gave you that," Samantha said softly. "Something good to remember her by."
Jace's hand tightened slightly at her waist.
"So am I."
They danced in comfortable silence, just moving together, and Jace found himself thinking how right this felt. How perfect. How every time he held her, whether they were dancing or just standing close, it felt like coming home.
"I love you," he said quietly, the words slipping out before he could stop them.
Samantha's breath caught, and she looked up at him with wide eyes. Then her expression softened into something so tender it made his chest ache.
"I love you too," she whispered.
They didn't kiss, not here, not in front of the entire assembly, but the way they looked at each other said everything that needed saying.
Around them, the reception continued. Toasts were made, many, many toasts. Sidney Greene told an embarrassing story about Nathan's first attempt at elemental training ("He set his own pants on fire, and Seamus laughed so hard he nearly passed out"). Galena's chief of staff shared a tale about the Prime Minister's legendary stubbornness in negotiations ("She once stared down a visiting diplomat for forty-five minutes without blinking. He blinked first").
When it was Jace's turn to speak as High King, he kept it heartfelt and brief.
"Nathan is my brother in every way that matters," he said, raising his glass to the assembled guests. "And Galena has proven time and again that she's exactly the kind of person we need in his life: someone who challenges him, supports him, and loves him fiercely. To the Dallengers. May your marriage be filled with joy, may your arguments always end in laughter, and may your love never waver."
"Hear, hear!" the assembly chorused, glasses clinking throughout the hall.
The celebration continued late into the evening. There was more dancing, more food, more laughter.
At one point, as the crowd thinned and people moved between the Hall and the corridors, Jace caught Samantha's hand and pulled her gently into a quiet alcove just off the main reception area. The stone archway shielded them from most of the view, the sounds of celebration muffled but still present.
"Finally," he murmured, his hand cupping her face. "I've been wanting to do this all night."
"Someone might see..." Samantha started, but Jace was already kissing her, soft and sweet and full of all the things they couldn't say in front of the assembly.
She melted into him, her hands finding his shoulders, the kiss deepening before...
"Ahem."
They sprang apart like guilty teenagers.
Magistrate Kovar stood at the entrance to the alcove, his expression a carefully maintained mask of diplomatic neutrality, though his eyes twinkled with unmistakable amusement.
"Your Majesty," he said gravely, though the corner of his mouth twitched. "Miss Wallace."
Jace's face flushed, actually flushed, and Samantha looked like she wanted the floor to swallow her whole.
"Magistrate Kovar," Jace managed, his voice remarkably steady despite the circumstances. "We were just..."
"Getting some air?" Kovar supplied helpfully.
"Yes," Samantha said quickly. "Air. Fresh air."
"In an alcove," Kovar observed.
"Very... concentrated air," Jace added with an embarrassed grin, which made no sense.
Kovar's lips twitched again. He glanced between them, the High King and his drum tech, both looking thoroughly caught, and his expression softened into something genuinely kind.
"Your Majesty," he said quietly, seriously now. "I married Nathan and Galena today because they love each other. That love was evident to everyone in the Chapel." He paused meaningfully. "Love, I find, has a way of making itself known regardless of circumstance. When you are ready to make yours official before the Congress, I would be honored to officiate that ceremony as well."
Jace and Samantha looked at each other, surprise giving way to gratitude.
"Thank you, Magistrate," Jace said. "That... means a great deal."
"In the meantime," Kovar continued, the twinkle returning to his eyes, "might I suggest the gardens? Much more privacy. And actual fresh air."
With a slight bow, he turned and walked back toward the reception, leaving them alone again.
Samantha sagged with relief.
"Oh my God."
"Well," Jace said after a moment, "at least it wasn't Ricky."
"If it had been Ricky, the entire Congress would know by now."
"Fair point." Jace pulled her close again, resting his forehead against hers. "Gardens?"
"Gardens," she agreed, smiling.
They slipped out a side door, hand in hand, into the quiet evening air of Aelin's palace grounds.
Back in the reception, the maids danced with the groomsmen: Indira and Connor moving together with a connection that spoke of something deeper developing, Yara claiming Erik for a waltz that made the massive Warrior surprisingly gentle.
As the evening wound toward night, Nathan and Galena stood together near the main doors, thanking guests as they departed. When the Brotherhood approached, Nathan pulled them all into a group embrace.
"Thank you," he said, his voice rough with emotion. "For being here. For standing with me. For being my brothers."
"Always," Jace said, gripping the back of Nathan's neck in that gesture of Brotherhood affection.
"Wouldn't have missed it," Erik added.
"Even though I had to wear formal clothes," Ricky complained, but his grin was genuine.
Connor just smiled, his Visionary senses picking up the threads of happiness and love woven through this moment.
"This is what family does. We show up."
Galena kissed each of them on the cheek in turn: first Jace as High King, then Connor as best man, then Erik and Ricky. When she reached Nathan again, she took his hand.
"Ready to go, husband?" she asked.
"More than ready, wife."
They left to cheers and applause, heading to the private suite that had been prepared for their wedding night. Tomorrow they would leave for a brief honeymoon in Greece: the sun, the sea, the ancient stones. A world away from everything. But tonight was just for them.
Jace stood with his brothers and Samantha in the emptying Great Hall, watching the last candles flicker.
"One down," Ricky said cheerfully, then glanced at Jace and Samantha standing close together. "Who's next?"
"Not discussing this," Jace said firmly, but his hand found Samantha's and laced their fingers together.
"Oh, we're absolutely discussing this," Ricky countered. "There are so many weddings coming up. It's going to be beautiful and exhausting."
Connor caught Jace's eye and grinned knowingly. Jace shook his head but couldn't quite suppress his own smile.
Tomorrow the Brotherhood would return to normal routines. Tomorrow there would be rehearsals and responsibilities and all the work that came with being both a rock band and a Brotherhood.
But tonight, they celebrated love.
Tonight was perfect.
Three Days Later — Salem, Oregon
Samantha had been dreading this conversation for weeks.
She sat in her childhood home, a modest two-story house on a tree-lined street in Salem, with her mother across from her at the kitchen table. Diana Wallace was fifty-two, with the same auburn hair as her daughter (though hers was shot through with silver now) and sharp, intelligent eyes that missed very little.
"You've been nervous since you got here," Diana observed, setting down her tea cup. "Whatever it is, just tell me. Did you get fired? Are you pregnant? Did you join a cult?"
"Mom, no..."
"Because if it's the cult thing, I'm calling the deprogrammers."
"It's not a cult," Samantha said firmly. "It's... complicated."
Diana leaned back in her chair, arms crossed.
"I'm listening."
Samantha took a deep breath.
"I'm engaged."
Diana stared.
"You're... what? To who? When did this happen? Why didn't you call me immediately?"
"It happened in November. To Jace, my boss, the drummer. And I didn't call because..." Samantha paused. "Because I needed to get permission to tell you the whole truth. About who I'm marrying. About who Battle Cry really is."
Diana's expression shifted from surprised to concerned.
"The whole truth? What does that mean?"
"It means Battle Cry isn't just a rock band." Samantha met her mother's eyes steadily. "They're called the Brotherhood of Aelin. They're protectors of a hidden island nation, and they have... abilities. Powers. Magic, basically."
The silence held between them.
Diana blinked once. Twice. Then she reached for her tea and took a long sip.
"Okay. Walk me through this slowly. Magic. Powers. Hidden island nation."
"The island is called Aelin. It's protected by something called the Veil, which keeps it hidden from the rest of the world. The five members of Battle Cry, Jace, Nathan, Connor, Erik, and Ricky, they're not just musicians. They're the Brotherhood of Aelin, and they protect the island and its people from threats."
"And you work for them."
"I work for them," Samantha confirmed. "I'm Jace's drum tech, but I also know the truth. They trusted me with it. And now..." She paused. "Now I'm engaged to Jace. We haven't made it public yet, no official announcement to the Aelinian Congress. But I needed you to know."
Diana was quiet, processing.
"Show me," she said finally. "If this is real, show me something. Prove it."
Samantha reached into her bag and pulled out a small envelope of photographs, images from Aelin that she'd been given permission to keep. She spread them on the kitchen table. The lavender sky. The castle. The counties. The people.
Diana picked up each photograph carefully, studying them.
"These could be edited. Trick photography."
"They're not. Mom, I've been there. I've seen things that... that defy explanation. I've watched Nathan summon fire with his bare hands. I've seen Connor move objects with his mind. I've watched Ricky literally teleport across a room. This is real."
Diana set the photographs down and studied her daughter's face.
"You believe it. That much is clear."
"I know it, Mom. It's not belief. It's fact."
"And Jace, the drummer you've been working for, he's part of this Brotherhood."
"He's not just part of it." Samantha met her mother's gaze steadily. "He's the leader. The Guardian. And he's also the High King of Aelin."
Another long silence.
Diana picked up her tea again, took another sip, and said calmly, "My daughter is marrying a king."
"Yes."
"A rockstar king. With superpowers."
"They prefer 'bestowed abilities,'" Samantha corrected, fighting a smile.
Diana set down her tea cup with deliberate care.
"Samantha Elizabeth Wallace. Are you telling me the truth?"
"Yes, Mom. I swear."
"And you're engaged to this man? You love him?"
"I love him more than anything," Samantha said quietly. "He proposed in November. We're keeping it quiet until the official announcement, but yes. I'm going to marry him."
"Where's the ring?" Diana asked, glancing at Samantha's bare left hand.
Samantha smiled.
"He proposed... differently. It's complicated. But the ring is coming. After everything settles down."
Diana studied her daughter, then reached across the table.
"Tell me about him. Not the king part. Not the powers part. Just... who is he?"
Samantha smiled.
"He's kind. Really, genuinely kind. He cares about people deeply: his brothers, his crew, his people. He's funny in this dry, unexpected way. He's protective but not controlling. He listens when I talk. He makes me feel seen." Her voice softened. "And when he looks at me, Mom, I feel like I'm the only person in the world."
"That's how your father used to look at me," Diana said quietly.
They sat in comfortable silence, both thinking about the man they'd lost five years ago to a sudden heart attack.
"If this is real," Diana said finally, "if there's really a magical island and he's really a king with bestowed abilities..."
Samantha smiled at her mother using the correct term.
"...then I want to meet him. Properly. And I want to see this island for myself."
Samantha felt relief wash over her.
"Really? You believe me?"
"I believe that you believe it. And I believe that you wouldn't lie to me about something this important." Diana squeezed her hand. "Besides, my daughter doesn't fall in love easily. If this man has captured your heart, I want to know why."
"Thank you," Samantha whispered.
"Don't thank me yet. If he hurts you, king or not, I'm going to have words with him."
Samantha laughed, wiping at her eyes.
"He won't. I promise."
"Good." Diana stood and moved to the kitchen counter, pulling out a calendar. "So when do I get to visit this magical island kingdom?"
"Next week, if that works for you. There's a formal tour arranged. You'll meet Jace, the rest of the Brotherhood, and some of the government officials."
"Will there be a tour guide?"
"Probably several."
"Excellent. I'll pack my camera." Diana paused, then turned back to her daughter with a mischievous glint in her eye. "You know, when I imagined you bringing home a man, I pictured a nice accountant. Maybe a teacher. Possibly a doctor."
"Sorry to disappoint."
"Oh, honey, I'm not disappointed." Diana grinned. "I'm just recalibrating my expectations. My daughter is marrying a rockstar king with bestowed abilities. That's not disappointing. That's extraordinary."
Samantha laughed and stood to hug her mother.
"Wait until you meet him. He's... special."
"I'm sure he is." Diana came around the table and pulled Samantha into a hug. "And so are you, sweetheart. Don't ever forget that."
They stayed like that, mother and daughter, connected by love and trust and the understanding that life was about to get a lot more interesting.
One Week Later — Aelin
Diana Wallace stepped through the portal into Aelin and immediately stopped, her eyes wide.
The lavender sky hit first: deep and saturated, nothing like any sky she had ever seen. Then the air: clean beyond anything earthly, salt and sea and grass and something floral she couldn't name, none of the low-grade grime of the world she'd stepped out of. Then the ground beneath her feet: white stone cobblestones that shimmered gently in the light, the shimmer coming from within the stone itself. Stone buildings rose around her in elegant architecture that blended medieval strength with artistic grace. In the distance, the castle rose against the horizon: real, solid, magnificent.
"Oh my God," she breathed. "It's real. It's actually real."
Samantha stood beside her, grinning.
"Told you."
"You told me. I didn't truly believe until just now." Diana turned in a slow circle, taking it all in. "This is incredible."
Galena approached, her role as Prime Minister evident in her elegant bearing and formal attire.
"Mrs. Wallace. Welcome to Aelin. I am Prime Minister Galena Dallenger."
Diana shook her hand, still slightly dazed.
"Thank you for having me. And please, call me Diana."
"Diana, then. I hope your journey was comfortable?"
"It was... surreal. But yes, comfortable."
"Excellent. I will be your guide for part of the day, along with several others. But first, there is someone who wishes to meet you."
Diana glanced at Samantha, who nodded encouragingly.
They walked through the streets of Harmonytis, and Diana couldn't stop staring. The people they passed were friendly, nodding greetings. The architecture was beautiful. The very air felt different, clearer somehow, charged with something she couldn't quite name.
They reached the castle and were ushered inside. The Great Hall was impressive but not overwhelming, grand enough to inspire awe but warm enough to feel welcoming.
And standing near the center of the room, waiting, was Jace.
He was dressed formally but not ostentatiously: black pants, a simple white shirt, the opal Guardian amulet visible at his throat. His dark hair was pulled back, and his amber-gold eyes were warm but cautious.
"Mrs. Wallace," he said, stepping forward and offering his hand. "I'm Jason Elias. But please, call me Jace."
Diana shook his hand, studying him carefully. He was tall, over six feet, and carried himself with the unconscious grace of someone who was comfortable in his own skin. But what struck her most was the kindness in his eyes and the way he immediately glanced at Samantha to make sure she was okay.
"Jace," Diana repeated. "My daughter tells me you're the High King of this place."
"I am," Jace confirmed. "Though I try not to let it go to my head."
"And that you're the leader of the Brotherhood of Aelin."
"Also true."
"And that you have magical powers."
"Bestowed abilities," Jace corrected gently. "But yes."
Diana was still. Then: "Show me."
Jace glanced at Galena, who nodded permission. Then he lifted one hand, and a soft opaline light began to glow around his fingers: white at the core, threaded with green, gold, and deep violet. It pulsed gently in time with his heartbeat, warm and steady.
"This is my empathic ability," Jace explained quietly. "I can sense and influence emotions. Right now, I can tell you're nervous but curious. Skeptical but open-minded. And you're worried about Samantha."
Diana's brows rose.
"That's... accurate."
The light faded, and Jace lowered his hand.
"I promise I don't use it invasively. It's just part of who I am. Part of what the Guardian amulet gave me."
"The amulet," Diana repeated, looking at the opal pendant. "That's where the power comes from?"
"Partially. The amulet bestows the abilities, but it's also a responsibility. A bond. The Guardian protects Aelin and its people. It's not just power: it's service."
Diana studied him, then nodded.
"All right. I believe you. Not just because of the light trick, but because..." She gestured around the room. "Because all of this is real. And because my daughter trusts you."
"I don't take that trust lightly," Jace said.
"Good. Because if you hurt her..."
"Mom," Samantha interjected, mortified.
"...I will find a way to make your life very difficult, magical powers or not."
Jace's lips twitched into a small smile.
"Understood. And for what it's worth, Mrs. Wallace, I have no intention of hurting Samantha. She's... important to me. Very important."
The way he said it, quiet, earnest, with that soft look in his eyes when he glanced at Samantha, told Diana everything she needed to know.
This man was in love with her daughter.
And from the way Samantha was looking back at him, the feeling was mutual.
"All right then," Diana said, her tone warming considerably. "Show me this kingdom of yours. I want to see everything."
Jace grinned, a real, genuine smile that lit up his whole face.
"It would be my pleasure."
The tour lasted hours. Diana saw the counties: the farmlands of Neart, the artistic workshops of Léirstinach, the stables of Ainmhithe. She met members of the Congress and ordinary citizens. She saw the university where Nathan worked and the military training grounds where Erik commanded.
And through it all, she watched Jace and Samantha together.
The way they moved in orbit around each other, always aware of where the other was. The way Jace's hand would hover near Samantha's back when they walked through crowds, protective but not possessive. The way Samantha would touch his arm when she wanted his attention, casual and comfortable. The way they looked at each other when they thought no one was watching: soft and warm and full of unspoken things.
By the time they returned to the castle for dinner, Diana had made up her mind.
"He loves you," she said quietly to Samantha as they walked through the corridors.
Samantha smiled.
"I know. And I love him. That's why I'm marrying him."
"When's the wedding? Have you started planning?"
"Not yet. We're taking it slow, there's a lot to figure out. A Royal wedding in Aelin is... complicated. And we want to wait for the right time to make the official announcement."
Diana nodded.
"Smart. Let the dust settle before jumping into state ceremonies." She paused, then added more seriously, "But you are happy?"
"Yes," Samantha said without hesitation. "Happier than I've ever been."
"Then that's all that matters." Diana squeezed her daughter's hand. "Your father would have liked him, you know."
Tears pricked at Samantha's eyes.
"You think so?"
"I know so. Jace has a good heart. And he looks at you the way your father looked at me, like you're the most precious thing in his world."
Samantha hugged her mother tightly.
"Thank you. For understanding. For being here. For accepting all of this."
"Always," Diana whispered. "Always."
At dinner that evening, a more casual affair with just the Brotherhood, their partners, and Diana, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Diana sat between Samantha and Nathan, asking questions about Aelin's history and government structure. Nathan, delighted to have someone genuinely interested in the political intricacies, launched into an enthusiastic explanation of the Congressional system that had Galena rolling her eyes fondly.
Across the table, Jace caught Samantha's eye and smiled. She smiled back, and everything else faded away.
Diana noticed.
And she smiled too.
Two Weeks Later — Aelin
Nathan and Galena returned from their honeymoon glowing with happiness and sporting matching tans.
The Brotherhood gathered at the castle to welcome them back, and the moment Nathan walked through the portal, Ricky pounced.
"So? How was Greece? Did you see the Parthenon? Did you eat all the food? Did Nathan accidentally set anything on fire?"
Nathan and Galena exchanged a look.
"Oh no," Jace said, recognizing that look immediately. "What happened?"
"Nothing happened," Nathan said quickly.
"Nathan lit a fireplace with his hands," Galena said at the exact same time, a smile tugging at her lips.
"Galena!"
"What? It was hilarious."
The Brotherhood leaned in, delighted.
"Tell us everything," Connor demanded.
Nathan sighed, running a hand through his hair.
"We were staying at this beautiful little inn in the countryside. It was chilly one evening, and the fireplace in our room wasn't lit. I thought, stupidly, in retrospect, that I could just..." He made a small gesture with his fingers. "Light it quickly. No one would see."
"But someone saw," Erik guessed.
"An old man saw," Galena confirmed, barely containing her laughter. "He was walking past our window at exactly the wrong moment. Saw Nathan's hands glow orange and the fireplace burst into flames."
"Oh God," Jace breathed, torn between horror and amusement.
"He started yelling in Greek," Nathan continued, looking pained. "Something about demons and sorcery and the end times."
"How did you fix it?" Connor asked.
"We didn't have to," Galena said, grinning now. "Turns out he was the town drunk. He ran to the taverna yelling about the 'fire demon at the inn,' and everyone just patted him on the back and gave him more ouzo."
"No one believed him," Nathan said, relief evident in his voice. "The innkeeper apologized to us the next morning for 'Old Stavros and his stories.'"
Ricky was laughing so hard he had to sit down.
"Nathan. Nathan, you almost exposed the Brotherhood to a Greek village because you were too lazy to use matches."
"I wasn't too lazy, I just... it seemed easier at the time!"
"This is going in the official Brotherhood history," Connor declared. "The Conjurer vs. Old Stavros."
"Please don't," Nathan pleaded, but he was smiling despite himself.
Jace clapped him on the shoulder.
"Welcome back, brother. We missed you."
"Missed you too." Nathan looked around at all of them, his expression softening. "It was wonderful, Greece was beautiful, the Aegean was everything she said it would be, but it's good to be home."
"And now," Galena added, slipping her hand into Nathan's, "we have work to do. The Congressional session resumes next week, and I believe you gentlemen have an album to record?"
"We do," Jace confirmed. "We leave for Los Angeles soon. A few months of studio work, then the tour."
"Then you should rest while you can," Galena advised. "From what Nathan has told me about recording, you'll need it."
Nathan nodded in agreement.
"It's going to be intense. Shadowlands is... it's our most ambitious work yet."
"You'll be brilliant," Galena said with total certainty. "You always are."
The Brotherhood dispersed slowly, heading back to their various responsibilities: Jace to Guardian duties, Connor to Visionary meditation, Erik to military training, Ricky to... wherever Ricky disappeared to. Nathan walked with Galena toward the Prime Minister's residence, their hands still linked.
"I'm glad we did this," Nathan said quietly. "The honeymoon. Getting away from everything for a little while."
"Even with Old Stavros?" Galena teased.
"Even with Old Stavros." He stopped walking and turned to face her. "Thank you. For marrying me. For loving me. For making me the happiest man in Aelin."
Galena reached up to cup his face, her grey-green eyes warm.
"Thank you for being exactly who you are. For making me laugh. For loving me back." She kissed him softly. "Now go. Spend time with your brothers before you leave. I'll see you tonight."
Nathan kissed her once more, then headed toward the university where he knew the others would likely gather. Behind him, Galena watched with a smile, her heart full.
Life was good.
Life was very, very good.
And soon, the Conjurer and his brothers would head to America to create something dark and beautiful and true.
But for now, at this moment, there was only peace.
And that was enough.