▪️G O L N A R▪️

The day of our vow renewal ceremony dawned with a sense of anticipation and joy that filled the air like a gentle breeze.

As I stood beneath the expansive canopy of the ancient oak tree, its sturdy branches stretching out like protective arms, I marvelled at its grandeur. The tree stood tall in the centre of a forest clearing, large enough to accommodate both Fae and orc in attendance, a symbol of the unity and harmony we had managed to achieve.

It had been a year since Cedric's betrayal had rocked our world, but in that time, we had rebuilt what was lost and forged new bonds.

Under the light of the full moon, the clearing was alive with activity, the air filled with laughter and music as we prepared for the ceremony ahead. Colourful banners fluttered in the breeze, their vibrant hues a stark contrast to the lush greenery of the forest. Lanterns hung from the branches of the ancient trees, casting a warm glow over the scene. Flowers of every kind decorated the area, their petals forming intricate patterns on the ground and entwining around the trunks.

While I continued to take in the scene before me, I could not help but be amazed by what we had accomplished together. Despite the challenges we had faced, the Fae had emerged stronger and more united than ever before.

I smiled, feeling a lightness in my heart before turning my attention to the ceremony that was about to begin. As the music swelled and the ceremony commenced, I felt a sense of peace settle over me.

Alaric stood before me, his eyes, a vivid green like the leaves overhead, held mine with an intensity that spoke volumes. His long dark hair flowed gracefully over his shoulders, framing his handsome face. The lines of his jaw were sharp, his expression a blend of steadfast resolve and gentle warmth. He stood there, dressed in ceremonial attire that accentuated his regal bearing.

In that moment, surrounded by our closest friends and allies, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The clearing was alive with the vibrant hues of nature and the festive decorations we had carefully prepared. The ancient oak tree, towering above us, seemed to watch over the ceremony with silent approval. Beneath its protective branches, our love felt as enduring and timeless as the tree itself.

As the ceremony began, I listened to the words of our renewed vows with a heart full of love and hope. The gentle rustle of leaves above us seemed to harmonize with the solemn yet joyful words being spoken.

Alaric took my hands in his, his touch warm and reassuring, "Golnar, we've journeyed through so much together. From the first moment I saw you, I knew you were the one who would change my life forever. Through every trial and every triumph, you've been my strength, my confidant, and my greatest love. Today, I vow to continue to stand by your side, to support you in all things, and to love and cherish you for all the days of my life."

Tears welled in my eyes as I absorbed his words, feeling the depth of his commitment resonate within me. I took a deep breath and began my own vows.

"Alaric, you have been my rock and my guide, my partner in all things. Your courage and compassion inspire me every day. Today, I reiterate my love for you, to stand with you through whatever may come, and to honour the incredible bond we share. With you, I have found my home."

With each exchange of rings, I felt a sense of peace settle over me, knowing that we were sealing our commitment with a tangible symbol of our love and devotion.

The rings, newly crafted for this special occasion, were made from intertwined strands of Fae and orc metal, symbolizing the unity and strength of our bond. The delicate filigree of Fae silver merged seamlessly with the rugged orc iron, creating a harmonious blend of our two worlds. As the soft light filtered through the canopy above, the rings gleamed brilliantly, their unique design a testament to the new chapter we were beginning together.

"With this ring, I renew my pledge to you," Alaric said softly. He slipped the ring onto my finger, his eyes never leaving mine, "May it remind us always of the strength and unity we share."

I mirrored his movements, my hands trembling slightly, "With this ring, I reaffirm my love and dedication," I whispered. "May it be a symbol of our unending bond and partnership."

Leaning forward, our lips met. The kiss was soft, yet it held all the passion and promise of our renewed commitment. I knew that we were embarking on a new chapter of our journey together, stronger and more united than ever before.

When we finally pulled apart, the cheers of everyone filled the air, a harmonious blend of Fae and orc voices celebrating our union. I glanced around at the faces of those who had stood by us through thick and thin, feeling a profound sense of gratitude.

Alaric squeezed my hand gently, "Together, we will continue to build a future where everyone can thrive side by side."

"Yes," I agreed, my heart swelling with hope and determination.

Surrounded by the beauty of nature and the presence of our loved ones, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy wash over me. In that moment, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, Alaric and I would face them together, hand in hand, heart in heart.

As the ceremony concluded, the forest clearing erupted into celebration.

Tables laden with food and drink appeared as if by magic, and laughter filled the air. Alaric and I were swept into a whirlwind of congratulations and well-wishes. The mingling of Fae and orcs, once unimaginable, now felt like the most natural thing in the world.

After hours of eating, drinking, and dancing, I felt a gentle tug on my arm. I turned to see Mahala and Izara, their faces alight with excitement.

"Come with us, Golnar," Mahala said, her eyes sparkling. "It's time for some girl time."

I glanced at Alaric, who smiled as he gave my hand a reassuring squeeze, "Have fun."

Mahala and Izara led me away from the main festivities to a quieter spot in the forest. The moonlight filtered through the trees, casting a serene glow over everything. They had set up a cozy area with soft blankets and cushions, surrounded by glowing lanterns and fragrant flowers. The soft hum of crickets and the gentle rustling of leaves created a serene backdrop.

"Oh, you two!" I exclaimed, my heart swelling with happiness. "What have you done? This is beautiful!"

Izara grinned, "We thought you might need a little break from all the attention."

"Not to mention, we wanted to spend some time with you, just us girls," Mahala said while handing me a goblet of wine. "To new beginnings," she toasted, raising her own goblet.

"To new beginnings," I echoed, clinking my goblet with theirs.

After taking a sip, Izara said, "So, tell us, Golnar, how does it feel to renew your vows with the mighty Fae King?"

I smiled, my thoughts drifting back to the ceremony as I replied, "It feels incredible. It's like we've come full circle. Despite everything we've been through, we're stronger than ever. I couldn't have asked for a better partner."

Mahala sighed dreamily, "You two are such an inspiration. The way you faced everything together, it's truly admirable."

"Indeed," Izara added, her tone more serious. "But how has Alaric been, given everything that happened with his brother? I know it's something that will stay with him."

I took a deep breath, the weight of Cedric's betrayal still heavy on my heart. "It's been hard for him. On top of everything, learning that Cedric was responsible for their parents' deaths, it's a wound that will take a long time to heal."

Mahala nodded sympathetically, "I can't even imagine. But he's strong, and he has you by his side."

"He does," I nodded. "And we've talked a lot about it. Some days are better than others. He threw himself into rebuilding the kingdom, trying to make something good out of all the pain."

Izara squeezed my hand, "And what about you. How are you holding up through all this?"

"I'm managing, though I must admit sometimes I find myself feeling confused. After all, Cedric was his brother and I had come to think of him as family."

Mahala leaned in closer, her eyes earnest as she said, "Just remember, it's okay to feel all of that. Grief, anger, confusion, it's all valid. And you have us to lean on."

"Thank you. I don't know what I'd do without friends like you both."

Izara smiled, "And you'll never have to find out. We're here for you, every step of the way."

As the night wore on, we continued to talk, the lanterns casting a warm glow over our little circle. The forest around us seemed to embrace our words, a silent witness to the strength of our friendship. I took another sip of the wine, savouring the sweet, rich flavour. It was a moment of tranquillity amidst the chaos of the celebrations taking place in the background.

Tilting my head up to glance at the sky, I could not help but reflect on the journey that had brought me to this point.

Leaving the orcs to live among the Fae had been one of the most challenging decisions of my life. I remembered the uncertainty and fear that had gripped me when I first arrived in the Fae Kingdom, a stranger in a land that felt so foreign and different. The initial days had been hard, filled with whispers and wary glances from the Fae who were uncertain of my presence.

The path had not been easy. There were moments of doubt, and days when the weight of my responsibilities felt almost too heavy to bear. But every challenge faced and overcome had brought me closer to the Fae, and to Alaric. They had accepted me, loved me, and ultimately embraced me as their Queen. It was a title I wore with pride, not for the power it bestowed, but for the trust and love it symbolized.

Thinking back to Cedric's betrayal, I felt a pang of sorrow. The pain of discovering that Alaric's brother had been responsible for so much suffering, including the death of Alaric's parents, was a wound that would take time to heal. Yet, out of that darkness had come a renewed sense of purpose and unity. The trials had forged stronger bonds between the Fae and orcs, creating a new era of cooperation and mutual respect.

I looked at Mahala and Izara, their faces lit by the soft glow of the lanterns, their eyes filled with warmth and understanding. These were the friends who had stood by me, who had believed in me even when I had doubted myself.

"It's amazing," I murmured, my voice soft with emotion. "To think of everything we've been through, and how far we've come. There were times I wondered if I would ever feel at home here, if I would ever be accepted. But now, I can't imagine being anywhere else."

Mahala reached out, taking my hand in hers, "You belong here, Golnar."

Izara nodded, her eyes shining with tears as she held my other hand, "You've brought so much to our world. The Isle of Wrobel is better because of you."

Their words filled my heart with a deep sense of gratitude. I had found a home, a family, and a future that I was excited to build. As we sat there, the lanterns casting a soft, magical light around us, I felt a profound sense of peace.

"So, what's next for you and Alaric?" Mahala suddenly asked.

I felt a blush creep up my cheeks and laughed softly, glancing down at my hands now folded once more on my lap. "Well, we've actually been thinking about starting a family," I confessed, my voice tinged with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

Mahala's eyes widened, "Really? That's wonderful news, Golnar!"

Izara beamed, "Yes, that's amazing! You and Alaric will make incredible parents."

I smiled, feeling warmth spread through me at their reactions. "Thank you. It's something we've talked about a lot recently, especially after everything that's happened. We want to build a future, not just for ourselves, but for our kingdom too."

Mahala nodded, her expression softening as she spoke, "A new generation, growing up in a world where Fae and orcs coexist peacefully. It's a beautiful vision."

"It really is," Izara agreed. "And if there's anyone who can make that happen, it's you and Alaric."

I felt my heart swell with gratitude and love for my friends. "We're hopeful. It's a big step, but we're ready to take it."

Mahala grinned, "Well, whenever that time comes, you'll have a whole village of support. We'll be here for you every step of the way."

"Absolutely," Izara added. "And in the meantime, we'll celebrate every moment with you."

As we sat there, surrounded by the soft glow of lanterns and the comforting presence of my friends, I felt a deep sense of contentment. The future was uncertain, but with Alaric by my side and the unwavering support of those I loved, I knew we could face anything.

Together, we would build a new world, one filled with hope, love, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

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A/N: That's it for now, I hope that you will enjoy the Epilogue 😊

For those who did not know, Baldur and Izara have their own story, it's titled Fated To The Orc King