The Reformation Wars: The Trump of Ibis

Chapter 15

Printempis 1st, 1020 A.D.

A spirit of celebration hovered over the Monteraynian capital for months following the joyous return of Dustin and the troops from Innutuk a little more than two weeks after the slaying of Lord Tanuk. Countless soldiers reunited with their families, and almost every day marked another lavish feast to commemorate God's blessings. At last, the great oppressor of the west had fallen, and millions across the continent could reap the benefits of liberty.

By the turn of the season, Dustin gave the kingdom further cause to celebrate. Immediately upon returning from the Innutukian capital, he took to one knee and asked for Serena Delquez's hand in marriage, which she readily assented to. Now, on the first day of the spring month, the time had come to officialize their union, say their vows, and make merry with friends and family.

Hundreds gathered outside the Monteraynian capital, caressed by the gentle rays of the sun as proceedings began. On the little platform at the end of the aisle created by rows and rows of chairs, a quartet of musicians played soft music which cued Dustin to step up. He strutted down the aisle in his finest silks, head held high and heart elated in anticipation of making Serena his wife and starting their life together.

When he reached the steps to the platform, Dustin reached to shake the hand of his old teacher, Nathan Korynn. He'd summoned the swarthy master from his abode in the wildlands to officiate, an honor Nathan had been flattered and pleased to perform. After the two men clasped hands, Dustin waited on the second highest step for Serena to make her appearance.

Appear she did, and the sight of her cause Dustin's heart to flutter. Adorned in a pure white dress that accentuated the gracefulness of her gait, she approached the platform with such finesse she seemed like a queen already. She offered sweet smiles to the seated onlookers as she passed, and then when she laid eyes on Dustin, his cheeks flushed.

When Serena had stepped up to be level with Dustin, she gave Nathan a little curtsy, then turned to face him. He yearned to kiss her right then, seeing her eyes brimming with such love and warmth.

"Welcome, everyone!" Nathan called out once the music had ceased, "We've gathered here this day for a momentous occasion, to witness the joining of two souls God has brought together to live out a life of love and service to each other. A once in a lifetime experience...at least you'd better only do this once, your highness."

Dustin chuckled at Nathan's jab, as did Serena and all the onlookers.

"Jesting aside, I can't stress that enough, that marriage is first and foremost a dedication to a life of service. You're not married to get something from someone else, but to give yourself to someone else. I myself have been married for a good many years now, and many days, I know I could do so much better than I have, but it's a lifelong journey that will reward you richly. God gives richly so that we can do the same, and I urge you both to keep that in mind through all the years you spend together. Lord knows you'll get tired of each other, but if you keep the focus on service, those moments will be short-lived."

After a moment to think, Nathan continued. "That said, I won't keep you standing here forever. None of us are in seats, after all."

Dustin laughed. "It does seem they are all taken."

"Now, I'll guide you through your vows. Don't make these lightly, so you won't break them lightly." Nathan sucked in a deep breath and turned to Dustin. "Prince Dustin Rickland, heir to the throne of Monterayne, in the sight of God and these witnesses, do you swear to take this young lady to be your lawfully wedded wife? And do you promise to keep her, protect her, and cherish her, forsaking all other women all the days you both shall live?"