Bridal Reception

Ashdeer POV

Fortress Irismus

I watched the lady walk in regal as ever, towards me and my throne. She wore a tiara on her head, in the tradition of the entire Irismian clan. The last woman who had worn this tiara has been ....I tried not to think on it. 

I wanted to think of the woman who had never had a chance to wear this tiara. The woman who had worn my ring on her finger and stayed in my Fortress, but never been formally betrothed to me, in this stately manner. The woman who had given up her life to save Irismus. 

The woman I had loved more than life itself. 

"Lord Ashdeer, you need to stand up to receive Lady Parinita!"said Tara, looking at me. I could see the worry in her eyes. 

"Of course!", I exclaimed, cursing myself for drifting off. 

I glanced at Parinita walking down, her retinue in place. The Veiled men and women beating drums and singing a lilting song.