“For peace we sacrifice,” she said.
“Through blood we stand,” he answered, and though the hall roared it back, he looked only at her. He reached for the crimson cloak folded neatly on the table beside him, and in one smooth motion, draped it around her shoulders.
There.
A Thorne tradition – a ceremonial acceptance into his House.
She’s even more beautiful in crimson.
Then came the vows.
“Do you, Sebastian Thorne, swear to keep this marriage vow? To guard it with your heart, your life, your blood, in battle and in peace?”
He answered before the man had finished speaking. “I do,” he said quickly and laughter rippled through the hall at his impatience.
“Do you, Karalynna Hale, swear to keep this marriage vow? To guard it with your heart, your life, your blood, in battle and in peace?”
“I do,” she said firmly, her voice ringing clear.
The officiant placed two simple silver bands on a delicate crimson cushion. Smooth and unadorned. As was Thorne custom. Hale usually wore gold, and Sebastian had offered it, but Kara had been firm. She wanted Thorne silver.
Sebastian took hers with trembling hands and slid it onto her finger, so it nestled snugly with the emerald ring he’d given her only a few nights ago. “You’re mine.”
Kara took his with steadier hands, though tears ran down her cheeks, and did the same. “Always,” she answered. “In this and every life, Sebastian Thorne.”
His eyes burned again. “Every life.”
From the front row, Eliyana’s quiet sob sounded in the hush – joy, relief, love – and Sebastian felt Kara’s hand tighten in his as their bond blazed.
The officiant raised his hands. “Before your kin and Houses, before the Arcanth and the Four Gods, let this marriage be witnessed. I give you, Lord and Lady Thorne.”
Sebastian crushed her to him, kissing her with everything he had. Golden light erupted around them as the hall roared – cheers, gasps and applause all mingling together. Somewhere, Saffra whooped loudest of all, but he barely heard it. The world was just him and Kara.
Hiswife.
Kara didn’t have time to even think. They were surrounded the moment they reached the gardens. Loved ones and well-wishers – so many voices rising into a chorus of congratulations. She was enveloped in hugs, hands reached to clasp hers, swift kisses on her cheeks. Sebastian was clapped on the back so many times she was surprised he hadn’t growled at someone yet.
He’s going to have bruises. I’ll be healing him before the night is out.
Laughter rang out under the clear blue sky as guests showered them in petals. Kara hardly knew where to look first. Her cheeks were aching from smiling, and she kept her fingers laced tight with Sebastian’s – otherwise the crowd would sweep her away. Every time she noticed his wedding band against her skin a thrill coursed through her.
We’re married.
Her mother pulled her close and whispered a Lyran blessing through her tears. Rowan and Saffra swooped in with wicked grins, teasing Sebastian so mercilessly for crying that he looked half-tempted to retreat back inside. Alys just beamed at her. Sienna slipped a stray flower back into her hair with a wink, whispering, “Perfect.” Even Tobias pulled her into a hug and murmured, “Lady Thorne,” as he released her.
Amongst the flood of guests, Kara caught sight of familiar figures from the Council. Lord Galen had come with his wife, offering Kara a courteous bow and a smile warmer than she expected. But neither of their sons were anywhere to be seen. Kara was nothing but relieved at Henry’s absence, for both him and herself. Lord Elias was close behind, his family in tow, along with Lady Evelyn, who said nothing, just inclined her head once.
“I’m so happy for you both,” Elias said, taking Kara’s hand gently. Sebastian stiffened. She didn’t think he’d ever be comfortable in the Council’s presence. But he did manage a somewhat polite nod.
Well done,she sent over the bond.
That’s all they’re getting,he grumbled.I’m still not convinced I won’t throw them out.
I know,she replied.But we can’t live the rest of our lives at war with the Council. Let’s try peace. Just for today.
Silence. Then–
Fine,he growled.
