Page 73 of A Storm of Fire and Ice

“It’s perfect,” I whispered.

Aria smiled, squeezing my hands.

I took a deep breath, holding it for a few seconds to steady my nerves before exhaling slowly. I stood taller, bolstered. The corset still pinched, but in a new way, like armor girding me for the role I was about to assume. This was my history now.

“Are you ready?” Gwyneira asked.

I nodded with a determined smile. “Let’s do this.”

Iris let out an excited whoop. “Let’s get you married!”

My heart pounded inside the cage of the corset as I nervously waited outside the Grand Hall of the Ice Castle, fidgeting with my gown’s gilt trim. Aria, Iris, and Gwyneira’s presence kept my panic at bay. As my bridesmaids glided gracefully down the aisle one by one, I peeked through the carved doors, desperate for a glimpse of my waiting groom.

“Deep breaths, Helena,” Aria murmured, taking my arm gently. “You’ve got this.”

“Thanks, sis,” I replied, squeezing her arm affectionately. “I can’t believe this is really happening.”

“It’s happening!” Aria grinned. “And I’m so glad I can share this moment with you.”

“Me too.” I clutched her arm tighter.

“You deserve all the happiness in the world.”

“Thank you, Aria. I love you, big sis.”

“I love you too, little sis.”

The doors swung open, and the wedding processional music spilled out into the hallway.

“Ready?” Aria whispered and patted my arm. Her violet eyes sparkled with excitement, a proud smile gracing her lips.

“Ready as I’ll ever be,” I replied, both anxious and exhilarated at the same time.

As we stepped into the Grand Hall, the splendor within stole the breath from my lungs. It had been lavishly transformed for our nuptials, the polished ice walls and soaring vaulted ceilings glittering with reflected candlelight. Hundreds of flaming sconces lined the walls, their warm glow mingling with the cool radiance emanating from ornate chandeliers of magical ice suspended overhead.

Under their combined light, the hall shimmered as though illuminated by scattered diamonds. I rested a hand briefly over my racing heart, overwhelmed by the fairy tale beauty surrounding me. Soft violin music floated on the air like errant snowflakes.

The spaces between soaring columns were adorned with elaborate sculptures crafted from ice, depicting cherubic figures and mythical beasts. Delicate swirls and whorls covered every frozen surface, capturing the essence of roaring dragons and prancing unicorns in crystal detail. Their frozen forms cast dizzying fractals of rainbow light dancing across the smooth floor, as though we walked through the heart of a prism.

Thousands of delicate fire and ice roses nestled in alcoves all along the walls, their blossoms ruby red, sparkling white, or pale pink all at the same time. The winter roses in hues that perfectly matched my bouquet lined the silk carpet runner unfurling down the center aisle. Their subtle perfume infused the chill air, delicate and ethereal.

As we continued our procession, my eyes scanned the gleeful faces of our guests. Dignitaries from all corners of the Enchanted Realm sat side by side, united on this day to celebrate the love Fannar and I shared. The myriad colors of their attire created a tapestry of unity, a symbol of the harmony that was possible when people put aside their differences and came together.

As Aria and I made our way down the aisle, my eyes fell upon the bridesmaids and groomsmen who stood at the altar. They were like a beautiful rainbow, each one representing a different kingdom and yet coming together in perfect harmony.

Gwyneira stood on the far left of the altar, her pale blue gown gliding effortlessly over the icy floor. The fabric shimmered like the surface of a frozen lake beneath the moonlight. Her black ribbon belt contrasted against the soft hue of her dress, symbolizing the union of the Ice and Storm Kingdoms. The delicate snowflake embroidery sparkled along the skirt, drawing attention to her serene silhouette.

Next to Gwyneira was Iris, my maid of honor, dressed in a stunning green gown that seemed to grow from the earth itself. The intricate leaf-patterned lace clung to her form, cascading into layers of silk that rustled softly like leaves in the wind. She embodied the Earth Kingdom’s strength and beauty, a living testament to its lush forests and rolling hills.

At the opposite end of the altar stood Brontes in his black Storm Kingdom military dress uniform. The sleek fabric hugged his muscular frame, while silver lightning bolt accents danced across his chest and shoulders. His dark hair was pulled back, accentuating the storm clouds that always seemed to linger in his eyes.

Beside him was Aspen, Fannar’s best man, dressed in the light blue Ice Kingdom ceremonial military uniform. The cool hue complemented his fair complexion, making his bright blue eyes stand out like twin sapphires. The Ice Kingdom’s crest emblazoned on his chest, showcasing his unwavering loyalty to both his kingdom and his prince.

At the end of the petal-strewn aisle, a magnificent arch towered over the altar, crafted from shimmering sheets of thick ice, red and white roses teeming for every inch.

By now, hundreds of faces had turned in my direction, but I had eyes only for one.

Fannar . . .

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