Beyond The Sacrifice

Chapter seven

Clara's POV

On the way back to the cave, I felt a sense of calm after our visit with Blanche and her family. The forest path was peaceful, and the evening light created a soft, golden glow around us. I walked beside Marcel, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about what I was about to do.

As we walked, I reached out and took Marcel's hand. His grip was warm and reassuring, and I noticed his surprise at my gesture. He looked down at our joined hands, then up at me with a mixture of curiosity and hope.

"Clara?" he said softly. "What's on your mind?"

I took a deep breath, gathering my courage. "Marcel, I was wondering if you could take me to the fountain."

He looked at me, puzzled. "The fountain? Why?"

I gave him a small, determined smile. "I want to see it. I've heard so much about it, and I think it's time. Plus, I have something I want to ask you."

Marcel nodded, his expression softening with understanding. "Alright, let's go. It's not far from here."

We continued walking, and soon we reached the enchanted fountain. It was even more stunning than I had imagined. The water sparkled with an otherworldly glow, casting shimmering reflections on the surrounding trees. The sight was breathtaking, and I felt a deep sense of awe as I took it all in.

"This is incredible," I whispered, feeling a wave of emotion. I turned to Marcel, my heart racing with both excitement and nervousness. "It's even more beautiful up close."

Marcel's eyes were focued on me. "It is."

I took a deep breath and squeezed his hand. "Marcel, I've been thinking about us and what we talked about. I want to make the vows with you. Here, by the fountain."

His eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, he looked speechless. But then a broad, genuine smile spread across his face. "Clara, are you sure?"

I nodded, my heart full. "Yes, I'm sure. I want this. I want to be with you."

Marcel's smile grew even wider, and he gently pulled me closer. "Then let's do it."

Without hesitation, Marcel and I stood together by the fountain. The water's soft light seemed to embrace us as we prepared to make our vows. We faced each other, our hands still entwined, and I could see the love and commitment in his eyes.

We spoke our vows, promising to stand by each other through everything, to support and care for one another. The words felt profound and right, and as we finished, I felt a sense of completeness and happiness that I had never known before.

Marcel looked at me with a mixture of relief and joy. "Clara, I'm so happy we did this. I promise to always be here for you."

I smiled up at him, feeling a deep connection. "And I promise to be here for you, too."

We stood there for a moment, holding each other close and savouring the magic of the moment. The fountain's glow seemed to celebrate our vows, and I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me.

As we walked back to the cave, hand in hand, I knew that we were starting a new chapter in our lives—one filled with love, understanding, and shared dreams. It wasn't always going to be easy, but with Marcel by my side, I felt ready to face whatever came next.

As we meandered along the path, I noticed a cluster of red roses growing beside the trail. Their vibrant petals stood out beautifully against the green foliage. I felt a sudden urge to pick one, so I gently plucked a single rose and held it up to my nose, inhaling its sweet fragrance.

Marcel watched me with a curious smile. "You like flowers?" he asked softly, gazing at me.

I nodded, feeling a bit shy but pleased by his interest. "Yes, I do. I especially like red roses. They're so beautiful and have a nice scent."

Marcel's eyes softened, and a tender smile spread across his face. "Then from now on, you are my little rose."

The endearment made my heart flutter, and I couldn't help but giggle. "I like that," I said, holding the rose close to my chest. "Thank you."

We continued walking, and the forest seemed to embrace us in its quiet beauty. Marcel glanced over at me, his gaze full of affection. "I'm glad you like the name. It suits you....my little rose"

As we walked hand in hand, the evening grew darker, and the stars began to twinkle in the sky. The path back to the cave was illuminated by the soft glow of moonlight filtering through the trees, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.

The air was cool and crisp, carrying the faint scent of the roses I held. Marcel occasionally glanced at me with a contented smile, clearly happy with how the day had turned out. We talked about simple things—our plans for the future, what we hoped to do together, and how much we both enjoyed this peaceful moment.

When we finally reached the cave, it felt like a continuation of the enchantment we'd experienced at the fountain. The firelight inside the cave was warm and inviting, and I could see the familiar surroundings with new eyes, feeling more at home than ever before.

Marcel helped me inside and then took the rose from me, gently placing it in a vase. "This will be a nice reminder of our day," he said, his voice soft and gentle.

I smiled at the rose now sitting in the vase, feeling a deep sense of happiness. Marcel's gesture and the way he looked at me made me feel cherished and loved. The little rose was now a symbol of our new beginning, a beautiful memory of the vows we had exchanged and the love that was growing between us.

Marcel's POV

I reached for my knife, the one I used for practical tasks but now had a more profound purpose. Clara stood near the fire, her face calm but her eyes reflecting the gravity of the moment. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my hands and clear my thoughts.

"Clara," I said softly, my voice steady despite the fluttering in my chest. "Are you ready for the marking?"

She nodded, her expression determined but gentle. "Yes, Marcel. I'm ready."

I carefully approached her and extended my hand, waiting for her to present her wrist. Clara extended her arm, her skin soft and vulnerable under the flickering firelight. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, bracing herself for the sensation of the blade.

I tried to be as gentle as possible, my movements deliberate and precise. I made the first incision, drawing the symbol of our tribe—a mark of our bond. Clara gasped softly, and I could see her flinch. Her breath hitched, and a small whimper escaped her lips.

My heart ached seeing her in pain, but I knew this was a necessary step for us. As soon as I finished with the markings, I quickly moved to stop the bleeding. I pressed a cloth against her wrist, applying gentle pressure to the area. Clara winced, and I could feel her trembling slightly.

"It's alright, Clara," I said, my voice soothing. "I'm here. I'm almost done."

I reached for the herb mixture I had prepared earlier. I gently applied the herb to her wrist, the cooling sensation meant to bring relief. Clara's whimpers softened as the herb took effect.

I watched her closely, ensuring she was as comfortable as possible. "I'm sorry if it hurt more than you expected," I said softly. "I tried to be as careful as I could."

She opened her eyes, looking at me with a mixture of gratitude and pain. "It's okay," she whispered. "I wanted to do this. I'm glad we're doing it together."

I nodded, relieved to hear her reassurance. "Thank you for being so brave, little rose"

We sat together, the fire crackling softly in the background. I stayed close, offering comfort and support. I could see the strength in Clara's eyes, and it made me even more certain that this was the right path for us.

To be continued...