Fated To The Orc King

Epilogue

9 Moon Cycles Later

The room was a flurry of silk and laughter, an oasis of calm amidst the bustling preparations for the special ceremony.

Izara stood before an ornate mirror, the delicate lace of her wedding gown cascading like a waterfall. Mahala and Golnar flitted around her, their hands moving deftly, securing buttons and arranging curls.

The gown was made of ivory silk and other fabrics, lovingly adorned with intricate beadwork and delicate embroidery. Swirling patterns traced their way along the neckline and down the corseted bodice. The sleeves billowed gracefully; their edges trimmed with lace that tapered down to Izara's wrists, revealing glimpses of the same delicate embroidery that adorned the bodice, creating a harmonious balance between opulence and restraint. The skirt, a cascade of layers, flowed from the cinched waist in a sea of ivory and cream. Each layer of fabric seemed to dance with a life of its own, catching the light in a mesmerizing play of shadows and highlights.

Izara's hair framed her face with a natural grace, adding a touch of softness to her regal presence. Her tresses, a river of dark mahogany, fell in loose curls that tumbled down her back, held in place by a crown of silver flowers that glimmered like stars in the night sky.

With eyes that expanded with awe and gratitude, Izara turned to Mahala and said, "You've really outdone yourself with this dress, it's so beautiful!"

Mahala beamed with pride and pleasure as she replied, "I'm so glad you like it. It was an honour to create something worthy of this momentous occasion. Oh, there's one more thing about the dress that I wanted to surprise you with. Some pieces of the fabric were made by the fae, adding a touch of enchantment to the gown."

Izara's gaze shifted to Golnar, her eyes shimmering with appreciation, "Thank you so much!"

Golnar's smile held a touch of nostalgia while she spoke, "It was a small way for me to be a part of this day, to contribute something from the world that's now a part of me. Not to mention yours as well given your heritage."

Taking her hand, Izara squeezed it gently, "Your presence here, Golnar, is more than enough. You've brought so much to this moment, and I'm grateful for every bit of it."

As the three friends stood together, the bonds between them seemed to strengthen, each gesture and word a testament to the depth of their connection. The dress, with its blend of human craftsmanship and fae magic, became a symbol of their intertwined destinies.

Grinning widely, Mahala said, "You look absolutely radiant, my dear. Baldur and Khagra won't know what hit them."

Izara's cheeks warmed with a mixture of excitement and nervousness as she responded, "I can hardly believe this day has come. It feels like a dream."

Golnar smiled, "You deserve every happiness, Izara. You've fought so hard for it, and I'm grateful to be here to witness it."

Izara's heart warmed, "And I'm honoured to have you here, Golnar. I know how much you've sacrificed for all of us. I'm so glad that Alaric has kept his promise and allowed you to visit us periodically."

Barking out a laugh, Mahala stated, "Oh please! That man wouldn't be able to deny Golnar anything even if he tried. He's completely smitten, have you seen the way he looks at her?"

The skin of Golnar's pale grey skin flushed slightly as she shook her head, "That's just the mate bond, those feelings aren't truly real."

"My ass..." Mahala scoffed. "I know how the mate bonds work. Yes, there's an instant attraction but I've heard of fated mates not liking each other. Alaric likes you, loves you even from what I can tell."