Ana stood in the Hall of Rest, waiting. It had been a crazy few weeks, but today was her wedding day. She thought over all that had happened recently; Deorla leaving, the tournament, the fear of losing one of their own, followed by the joy of being part of the rescue. So much emotion and adrenaline had flowed through her body these past months, she was surprised to still be able to stand. Today though, was no different. She lifted a hand and saw it tremble. These hands that not that long ago were holding a sword comfortably, steady as anything, were today struggling to keep hold of a simple delicate flower.
“Are you okay?” asked Daphnee, looking a little concerned, and grasping Ana’s hand. Ana gripped it tightly, and took a deep breath. “Just nervous I guess” she replied, confused at her own bodies reaction to what should be a happy and enjoyable day. “I hear it’s normal” nodded Daph, “Come on”, she gestured towards the door, “I think it’s time we were off”. Ana smiled. Having Daphnee there with her, calmed her. Not only had fate led her to her husband, but she had also been led to a best friend. Daphnee had helped her so much during the preparations; lending her a family gown, finding flowers , and sorting her hair. The fact that all these things were ever so slightly out of Daphnee’s comfort zone, yet she did them anyway, made it even more special. And that’s without mentioning Daph was in a dress herself, and looking amazing…
Ana followed Daphnee, out of the room and down through the Homely House. Her heart quickened as she saw the door to the East Porch. Elthhelm was waiting outside looking a little flustered. “Just bear with us.” he said, “A few last minute things just being sorted out.” And he went back inside shaking his head. Ana looked at Daph, “You think Amaken is actually IN there?” “He’d better be,” Daphnee laughed “Cos he won’t want me huntin’ him down”.
Ana steadied herself, as the doors opened once more. Elthhelm appeared, looking much calmer “They are, now, ready for you” he announced with smile.
Walking through the door, Ana’s breath was taken away. The room was filled with the people she had come to care for deeply, standing in perfect formation lining the aisle and there, directly in front of her was Amaken, with a beaming smile, and looking handsome as ever. She stood for a moment, just trying to take it all in. She may have stood a moment too long, as Amaken, always her gallant rescuer, started to move towards her, much to Furley’s frustration. “Get back here” he growled, though maintaining a smile, as Amaken took his place back at the front to wait for his bride.
As Ana joined Amaken at the front of the room, with the backdrop of the waterfalls, and the sound of the birds, it was pretty much perfect.
Ana & Amaken had asked Furley to preside at their ceremony, and he did so with finesse. The couple had written vows, which they exchanged, along with gold bands, whilst looking into each other’s eyes. The service ended with the kiss of the bride and groom, and the presentation to the room of Mr & Mrs Daradson. As Ana and Amaken turned to face their friends, they were greeted by cheers and happy smiles.
They started to make their way back towards the door, they were stopped in their tracks by a familiar face, who Ana had noticed lurking outside the room as she had waited to come in. There were nervous glances around the room, however, the man just offered Ana a gift, and she, without hesitation, in return asked him to join them for the rest of the celebrations.
This wedding was not only for Ana & Amaken. It was a chance to celebrate together that everyone was back where they should be, and this Company, this band of misfits and chancers, always had room for one more.
