The Legacy of the Uncharted

~ Chapter 26 ~ Wedding at sea

The morning sunlight bathed the deck of the *Mariner's Whisper* in a golden glow as the crew gathered for the wedding. The sea was calm, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of saltwater as Sophie, escorted by her bridesmaids—Lucy Belle Keoni and Hilda*made her way down the aisle. Theo standing at the altar, could barely hold back his tears. His heart swelled with emotion as he watched Sophie approach, looking radiant in her simple white dress.

As Sophie reached the altar and stood beside Theo, she smiled softly, and he wiped a tear from his eye.

- Theo (whispering): "You're beautiful."

Alexandria standing at the front as the officiant, took a deep breath and began the ceremony, her voice carrying warmly across the deck.

- Alex: "We gather here today, not just as crewmates, but as a family, to witness the union of two souls—Theo and Sophie. Over the course of this journey, we have seen their love grow stronger, and today they choose to face the future together as husband and wife."

The crew was silent, listening intently, their hearts filled with joy for their friends.

- Alex: "Love, like the sea, can be unpredictable. It can be calm one moment and stormy the next, but through it all, love remains the guiding force that keeps us steady. Today, we celebrate that love."

She paused, her expression serious but kind.

- Alex: "If there is anyone here who has reason to oppose this union, speak now or hold your peace forever."

There was a brief silence. **Razor**, the guest of honor, gave a respectful nod from his spot in the crowd. **Alexandria** continued with a smile.

- Alex: "Now, Sophie and Theo have written their own vows, so I'll turn it over to them."

**Theo**, his voice trembling with emotion, looked deeply into Sophie's eyes as he began.

- Theo: "Sophie, from the moment we met, I knew my life had changed forever. You've been my anchor through the storms we've faced, and I know that with you by my side, I can face anything. I promise to love you, to protect you, and to be there for you through every challenge, every victory, and every moment in between. You are my heart, and I vow to be the husband you deserve, for the rest of our lives."

Tears welled up in Sophie's eyes as she squeezed Theo's hand. She took a deep breath and began her vows.

- Sophie: "Theo, you are my safe harbor, my best friend, and the person I want to share every adventure with. You've shown me what it means to be truly loved, and I promise to stand by your side through every storm, every calm, and every challenge that comes our way. You've given me strength, hope, and love, and I vow to give you the same for the rest of my life. I love you, Theo, with all my heart."

There wasn't a dry eye on deck as they finished their vows. Alexandria, smiling warmly, stepped forward.

- Alex: "Sophie, do you take Theo to be your husband, to love him and stand by him, no matter what challenges lie ahead?"

- Sophie: "I do."

- Alex: "Theo, do you take Sophie to be your wife, to protect her and love her, through all the highs and lows of this life?"