Beneath the Waves (Ocean Song Book 1)

Chapter 39: Nightmare Wedding

They've all been gathered into a large ornate hall of breathtaking beauty. It's been decorated in the nation colors of Aquaria for this rare, and most auspicious occasion.

And after nearly five centuries of separation, the other two kingdoms of the former Ventus Alliance has seen fit to attend this joyous occasion.

The hall is filled with members of the high families of Aquaria, the Ventus Alliance kingdoms, and the families of the smaller kingdoms surrounding Aquaria. The common people numbered greatly, and thus had to have their celebrations outside until such a time as the new royal couple displayed themselves on the balcony.

Serena can see Rodion over by Princess Arcelia from her place on the upper levels of the hall, a place reserved for the royals that had been invited to this event. His expression is one of his typical displays of disinterest, but nothing can conceal the worry swimming in his eyes. It makes her feel terribly guilty, and she's only sorry that she can't step forward and reveal herself to him now.

Calder casts a meaningful glance in her direction, and she gives a subtle nod.

Grand music begins to play, and all eyes immediately turn to the entrance.

Except for Serena's. Her gaze is fixated on Prince Oceanus. He's garbed in ceremonial pieces of armor. Gauntlets on his wrists, a particularly proud looking hair ornament that replaces his usual one, and some kind of belt adorned with blue and red pearls.

And yet, despite it being his wedding day, a particularly displeased scowl etches itself upon his face. The whole affair serves to instill a dark feeling in her chest, and she feels strangely angry. Yet she hasn't a clue as to why.

But she's not allowed long to dwell on it as a series of murmurs surge through the gathered crowds.

She redirects her attention to the source of the ruckus.

Delmara has finally deigned to make her appearance. And Serena is reluctant to admit that Delmara is breathtakingly beautiful. Her hair flows out from beneath her long veil in large, spiraling curls, no doubt held together by magic like most things down here. A fair amount of makeup has been place upon her face to enhance her already beauteous features. And she wears a white skirt embroidered with gold and precious pearls that opens up in the front so as not to hinder her movement. But then that's how all these undersea dresses work. Delmara's is just more extravagant.

However, her beautiful face is a mask of a joyous bride that hides the face of the ill-intentioned, power hungry creature lying just beneath the surface. And her father, Lord Hallmar, is no better. He escorts her down the aisle donning the façade of the proud father. But Serena can see the weary look in his eyes. By now he's most likely frantically trying to recover his escaped prisoners before his tyrannical master comes calling.

According to Calder, Proteus's loyal servant won't be in attendance for the wedding. Something about maintaining appearances or something like that.

It's then that Calder's voice cuts into her thoughts. "Get ready. Your moment is fast approaching."

Serena nods. "Right."

Delmara reaches the raised platform where Prince Oceanus waits. Her father passes her hand to Prince Oceanus's, and returns to his assigned seat above.

"Remember your lines, and wait for my signal to reveal who you are."

"And then use the pearl," she finishes resolutely as she fingers said pearl that sits bound to a bracelet on her left wrist.