The Raven and the Songbird

Chapter 31

It had happened more times than he could count. He would see Gwyn in something she'd never worn before, or laughing joyously with his family, or mastering a new skill as perspiration glittered on her brow, and Azriel would swear it was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.

And in spite of all of those things, this time it was really true. Nothing would ever compare to the vision that was Gwyneth Berdara, clothed in a sheath of ivory lace and walking toward him with a smile that lit the night around the small gathering - shining more brightly than the moon and stars above. Each step caused his heart to flutter, bringing her closer and closer to the vows they would make. Closer and closer to binding their hearts and lives. Closer and closer to forever.

The shadowsinger blinked a few times, knowing that his brothers and their mates had likely placed bets on how quickly he would shed a tear at his wedding. The least he could do was foil whoever it was that bet he wouldn't make it past the first time seeing his bride.

It was a small ceremony, the two of them keeping such a tight circle of loved ones that would warrant a wedding invitation. And so the few of them gathered behind Gwyn as she approached, the spymaster and Ananke standing before the tree they'd planted together nearly a year ago.

Catrin's tree.

It had been his suggestion - something that had satisfied him to no end. He was no party planner and didn't often have grand ideas, but he was a sentimental male, particularly where his Valkyrie was concerned. Knowing that there would be fewer than a dozen in attendance - and knowing how much Gwyn still struggled with her twin's absence - it had been an easy recommendation to make. When her ocean eyes had widened, the love and appreciation shining upon him, his chest had tightened to the point of pain.

He felt the same constriction in his lungs now as the redhead stopped in front of him, handing the small bouquet of orchids and lilies to Nesta. When her warm palm found his extended hand Azriel had to blink back the emotion again. Though her fingers were calloused from her training, they still felt so soft in his grasp, twining with his as they faced another Valkyrie priestess in her billowing blue robes. Ananke smiled gently up at them.

"Welcome, Gwyneth. Azriel." He was vaguely aware as she nodded to each of them, his sidelong stare fixed on the freckled profile at his side. She was exquisite, her twisted and plaited strands an ocean of rolling copper and bronze, glinting in the soft moonlight. The fluttering fae lights cast the small scene in a golden glow, and he could see that her skin was mostly free from cosmetics - only a shimmer over her eyes, kohl-darkened lashes, and that near sinfully dark, wine-red stain upon her full lips. It was perfection, her very essence painted upon her form in such a way. There was so much about her that was soft and kind and lovely - delicate lace atop silken skin. But she was fierce, and her ferocity shone mightiest in those enormous, incredible eyes and her indomitable wit and intellect.

"On behalf of Gwyneth, Azriel, and the Blessed Mother, I thank you all for your presence tonight. Each of you has left an indelible mark upon the lives that are joining this evening. It is because of the comfort, belonging, and love they have found with you - their family - that they have been able to grow as individuals and as a pair." The cerulean stone upon the priestess' brow glinted as she fixed her attention upon the two of them again. "Gwyn and Azriel, your loved ones stand at your side in support and encouragement. They have been at each of your sides as you have journeyed forward, battling darkness and facing trials. They have held you when you cried, and hugged you when you laughed. The journey has not been easy, but we have all seen that the eyes that used to be clouded with darkness now sparkle, that your lips now snicker and grin without pause, and that those hands that used to hide and tremble now join and caress with reverence." Azriel's breath hitched at the beautiful words, and he felt the hand that was tangled with his grip tighter. When his gaze flicked to Gwyn, he saw her face turned slightly toward him, a tender smile curving those kissable lips. The shadowsinger smiled in return, the wisps of black that floated around him joyous and twirling.