Enchanted Evening

The air in the grand hall grew tense as the king's voice boomed through the room, commanding everyone's attention. All eyes turned to Naria and the prince Raiver, who stood side by side at the center of the room. Naria couldn't help but notice the way her soon-to-be husband's hands were shaking. Was he nervous? She wondered to herself, her heart beating faster with each passing moment.

With a deep breath, Naria gently placed her red peonies into the prince's right hand, then reached out to touch his trembling hand with her left. The prince was startled by her cold touch, but he immediately accepted her gesture. As Naria and Raiver stood before the crowd, the king's voice filled the room once again.

"We are all gathered here today to celebrate the next black dragon's wedding," the king announced, "the history was real and so is the black dragon's curse," his voice ringing with arrogance, hatred, and disgust. His red demon-like eyes scanned the room, as if searching for someone in the crowd.

Whispers began to ripple through the hall, and even the queen looked ready to rise from her seat, appalled by the king's disrespectful words. The four dragons held themselves together, two of them barely containing their anger while the other two burned with silent fury.

But Naria wasn't going to let the king's words ruin her day. She tightened her grip on Raiver's hand and whispered reassuringly, "Even if you're cursed, we're cursed together now." The crown prince Rayden smiled kindly at them, relieved to see his brother finally finding happiness after so many years of false claims, accusations, and torture.

"The king meant that this course shall bring us another dragon into our family!"

The queen intervened, her unspeakable power calming the situation. The nobility listened attentively and began to clap, signaling their acceptance of the new dragon couple. The king continued the ceremony and tradition, but as he came to the end of the line, he stumbled over his words.

"The Black Dragon, second prince Raiver, you shall take this peasant…ehem," he cleared his throat, "this amazing destined lady to be your wife."

Naria's heart skipped a beat as she reached out to touch Raiver's hand, but a sudden flashback interrupted her thoughts. She saw the prince in the same attire as he wore now, standing in the midst of a fierce battlefield, his eyes blazing like a red dragon's, blood flowing down his skin. "Naria!" His voice called out to her, and she was brought back to reality in an instant.

"Do you agree?" The king asked, his eyes boring into hers.

"Ye-yes," Naria stammered, her face pale as she trembled where she stood.

At last, the king declared them husband and wife, and the room erupted in cheers and applause. Naria and Raiver exchanged a tender glance, the black of her sparkling dress shimmering like the midnight sky.

As Raiver leaned in to kiss Naria, she couldn't help but feel a strange sensation in her chest. Was it love? She had never experienced it before, but something about Raiver made her feel safe and protected.

The hall erupted in applause, but Naria barely heard it. She was lost in her thoughts, wondering what her life as a princess would be like. She had always dreamed of marrying for love, but the curse had changed everything. Now, she was bound to a prince she barely knew, but she couldn't deny the feelings that were beginning to stir within her.

As the newlyweds walked down the aisle, hand in hand, Naria couldn't help but notice the way Raiver was looking at her. His eyes were filled with a mix of emotions, and she couldn't quite read them. Was it love? Or was it something else?

As they stepped outside the hall, Naria was greeted by the sight of a beautiful carriage, adorned with red peonies. She gasped, realizing that it was a gift from Raiver. The prince smiled at her, and Naria couldn't help but feel her heart skip a beat.

"Riding in a carriage around Pretto and returning to the hall to start the festivities is a cherished tradition," Raiver said, extending his hand to Naria.

"That's a beautiful tradition," She graciously accepted and was soon seated inside the carriage. The vehicle was a sight to behold, with intricate carvings and a lush interior. As they set off, Naria marveled at the stunning views of the city, taking in the sights and sounds around her. The carriage made its way through the bustling streets, passing by quaint shops and charming cafes. They continued along the winding roads, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking scenery. Finally, they arrived back at the castle, where the festivities awaited.

As the carriage pulled up, Raiver and Naria were greeted by a crowd of people, all eager to welcome them back. The sound of cheers and applause filled the air, as they made their way towards the grand hall. The doors were flung open, revealing a sight that took Naria's breath away.

The hall was a stunning masterpiece, with a dark blue ceiling adorned with twinkling stars. The walls were made of old blue crystal, shimmering and reflecting the light of the chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. The room was filled with the most important people of the kingdom, including the royal family, all dressed in their finest attire.

As Raiver and Naria made their way towards the center of the room, the crowd parted to make way for them. The royal family greeted them warmly, and they were led to their seats at the head of the table. The table was set with the most exquisite crystal and silverware, sparkling in the soft light of the candles.

Naria couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the grandeur of it all. As the festivities began, she took in every detail, from the delicious food to the lively music and dancing. This was a night she would never forget…

"The gift time!"