The book of love is long and boring... And written very long ago
It's full of flowers and heart-shaped boxes
And things we're all too young to know
But I... I love you when you give me things
And you... You ought to give me wedding rings
-Lyrics to 'The Book of Love' performed by Peter Gabriel
Elements of Great Design Part 30
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here on this beautiful day to join this young man and this young woman in blessed matrimony," Howard opened the ceremony while he smiled brightly on the pair standing before him with their eyes and hands locked together fast.
Unable to hide his joy, Wufei had a proud grin in full display on his face as he gave a squeeze to his lover. Every bit the blushing bride, Anna was aglow with excitement.
Standing just behind the Fire Keeper, Duo gave a smirk to his partner directly across from him. The corner of Heero's mouth curled up in kind and he gave a shallow nod to the son of Shinigami. Before the whole display, Trowa and Quatre were on their feet, leaning against each other with shimmering eyes in witnessing their eternal friends finally having the opportunity to wed.
Howard opened his arms to the congregation, and began the sermon, "Dearly beloved friends, entities and allies, we are gathered here on this beautiful day to celebrate this rare glimpse of hope and joy in our dark times."
Smiling on the couple, he continued, "Marriage is the union of two individuals in heart, body, spirit and mind. It is intended for their mutual joy - and for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity. Having already endured many a trial, Wufei and Anna make a commitment together through the sacred bond of holy matrimony."
The Elder turned to face Quatre and Trowa, asking, "Who gives this young woman in marriage?"
With firm nods, the White Mage and the Dragoon answered as one, "We do." To the smiling redhead, they winked.
Nodding his balding head to the couple before him, Howard declared, "This relationship stands for love, loyalty, honesty and trust, but most of all for friendship. Before Wufei and Anna knew love, they were friends, and it was from this seed of friendship that grew their destiny. Do not think that you can direct the course of love - for love, if it finds you worthy, shall direct you."
With a smirk, he announced, "Now, Wufei and Anna will exchange the vows that they have committed to heart and memory."
Slowly taking in a deep breath, the Monk recited, "I, Wufei Chang, take you, Anna Fraise, to be my beloved wife, to have and to hold you, to honor you, to treasure you, to be at your side in sorrow and in joy, in the good times, and in the bad, and to love and cherish you always. I promise you this from my heart, for all the days of my life."
Relieved to have reached the end of his vow without breaking down, he let out a loud huff of relief and the congregation chuckled.
Clearing away the lump in her throat and ignoring shimmer in her eyes, the thief replied quietly, "I, Anna Fraise, take you, Wufei Chang, to be my beloved husband, to have and to hold you, to honor you, to treasure you, to be at your side in sorrow and in joy, in the good times, and in the bad, and to love and cherish you always. I promise you this from my heart, for all the days of my life." Biting his lip, Wufei allowed a couple of his own tears to fall.
Quietly, the old man smirked and whispered, "Wonderfully done." Raising his voice for their audience, he stated, "And now for the exchanging of rings. These blessed rings created through your powers will be a symbol of the love shared between Wufei and Anna, linked in a circle that has no end."
Turning towards Heero, Wufei took the ring with an appreciative nod to his friend. His dark eyes focusing on his bride, he slipped the band on her left ring finger and said, "Anna, I give you this ring as a symbol of our love. With it I wed you, and give you my body, soul, and heart."
With a moment to appreciate the ornate design in the shimmering pewter that linked onto her gold band of flickering 'fireflies', she smiled brilliantly to him and turned towards Duo.
Carefully taking the gold band with a mouthed `thank you,' Fraise followed her groom's example and placed his ring on as she told him, "Wufei, I give you this ring as a symbol of our love. With it I wed you, and give you my body, soul, and heart."
Etched in the gold band was the image of a howling wolf that wrapped around the whole of the ring. Snickering quietly, the swordsman shook his head in amusement, but welled up in appreciation all the same.
Placing a hand on either elements' shoulders, the Elder offered softly, "May you always share with each other the gifts of love - be one in heart and in mind. And may the Creator and his good spirits bless and keep you as He always has since the dawn of time."
Slowly lifting his head to their audience, Howard smiled, "In as much as Wufei and Anna have consented together in marriage before this company of friends and family and have pledged their faith - and declared their unity by giving and receiving a ring - are now joined."
With a loud clap of his hands, Howard threw his arms open to the pair as he announced excitedly, "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife, spiritual soul mates and forever conjoined elements." Smirking to the look of anticipation on the newlyweds' faces when they turned to look on him, he chuckled to the Monk, "You may kiss the bride."
Not hesitating for a moment, Chang cupped the side of his wife's face and quickly closed the distance between their lips for a deep kiss. Only too happy to return the gesture, a few tears fell past Anna's closing eyelids as she poured everything that she had in the exchange. Around them, the cheers, whistle and applause from their friends rose over the rushing sounds of the fire and waterfalls.
* * * * * *
"You need to keep your head down," Sally urged as she pressed a hand on the center of his exposed chest to gently push his raised upper-half back against the bed and pillows beneath him. "You've lost a lot of blood and need to rest so that the healing spell I fused can take hold."
With a groan, the pale Commander obeyed his caregiver and winced at the jab that coursed through him when the stitches in his flesh protested against their stretching. Eyeing the taped gauze that covered nearly the whole length and width of his left side; it had been a close call, the blade that had struck him through his armor missing his heart by inches.
Po had put on a brave face when she first examined the wound, but it had shaken her. Ever since cleaning and closing him up, the Healer had not left his side, leaving her more than capable gifted volunteers to the task of mending the other injured.
"You have done more than enough for today," the braided young woman commented softly, a small smile on her face as she carefully dabbed away a couple drops of blood that had leaked through the padding. "It would do the White Fang team no good if you were to push yourself foolishly before you have completely mended."
Dissidia frowned deeply up at her, "So your extra care and concern over me is only for the sake of the White Fang?" Her hands freezing in their work, Sally froze with wide eyes as an unintelligible sound of panic broke from her. Unable to find her voice, her mouth simply opened and closed while she slowly turned towards the Commander. That was when she saw the smug grin on his face and she turned rigid again.
Taking hold of her arm, Firion gently pulled the Healer down towards him at the same time that he leaned up to press a sound kiss against her lips.
Instantly melting, Po's enlarged eyes closed with a sigh as she carefully looped her arms around the soldier's upper body and returned the gesture in kind. Just when the life-long friends that had fallen deeply for each other were about to intensify their exchange, the sound of a throat clearing at the tent's entrance had them breaking apart as though they had been doused by water.
Flushed and panting from both their shock and the reeling moment that had just taken place, the Commander and the Healer spun to see Rebecca standing in the partially opened flap. "Sorry for... interrupting," the girl smiled sheepishly, "but I thought that you should know the Sovereigns are on their way here to meet with you both."
Sally's face reddened at the thought of their King, Queen and royal friends walking in on what the scout had just witnessed. "Thank you, Rebecca," Firion grinned, not the least bit embarrassed at their being caught. "We will make ourselves more decent." Giggling over how Po smacked her leader on the arm, the lookout winked and slipped away once more.
Quickly removing her bloodied apron that protected her green tunic and brown pants, Po bit her lip in anxious wait for the arrival of their royals. And when the flap was pulled back again to reveal the recently freed couple, her eyes welled with tears of relief as she breathed, "Oh, thank the Creator you are both alright."
King Treize and Lady Une looked every bit their old selves now that they had been cleaned and set with fitting regal clothes bestowed upon them from their new friend entering the space with them. The fact that their spirits had been rejuvenated in their newfound freedom worked wonders for the pair as well.
Sniffling, the Paramecia Queen picked up the hem of her long, red dress to quickly close the distance between her and her good friend to share a tight embrace with her. Overcome by his own emotions, Khushrenada cleared his throat and approached his personal guard's side. "We are forever in your debt for not giving up on us," he all but whispered thickly as he reached out a hand.
Firion was unable to prevent the tears that wavered his vision as he accepted and returned a firm handshake with his King. "It was only the right thing to do," he smiled sincerely. "I deserve no thanks for it. Your rescue efforts would never have been attempted had it not been for the rest of the rebels here."
"I told you he would be too modest to accept credit where it is due," Zechs smirked to his fellow Sovereigns. Noin giggled softly at the tired, half-hearted glare that was shot at them by the Commander. "Dissidia has remained a loyal, caring warrior as well as a friend to the both of you in your absence. Lucrezia and I have a great deal of admiration for him and what he has accomplished in uniting this force of civilians and Fighters."
At that, the silver-haired young man ducked his head in both appreciation and modesty.
Patting his soldier on the shoulder, Treize chuckled deeply, "I never would have expected any less from you, Firion. It came as a great relief to my wife and I to learn that both you and Sally were still alive. " As he stepped aside, Lady Une took his place with a warm grin on her face while she bent at the waist to press a kiss against the blushing officer's cheek.
A hand waving in the air, Dissidia snorted, "Oh, enough about me. I have only done what any tried and true Fighter would do."
His audience snickered, but allowed him the relief of having such attention and praise bestowed upon him. A soldier through and through, his pride would not stand for anyone believing that his actions were born out of the need for accolade. Meeting Merquise's eyes, he asked quietly, "What losses did we suffer?"
With a sharp bow of his head in respect, the Coneria King replied, "Twelve deaths and forty-eight injuries in all. Those still being treated are expected to make full recoveries soon." He focused on Sally, complimenting, "That is quite the credit to your well-orchestrated team of Healers." Blinking widely, the braided young woman beamed.
Noin sighed deeply, "Considering what we were up against, it was a miracle that we endured so few casualties. We certainly had the element of surprise to work in our benefit." Shuddering, she rubbed her arms against the chill that had settled into her bones as she muttered, "I doubt that we are going to have many other opportunities like that again since we were so successful this time around."
"It would not be very likely," Firion agreed, a deep frown etching its way across his face. "It was good that we capitalized on this occasion while we had it." Gesturing to the recruiting royals, he commented, "Had it not been for the added aid of the Fighters you brought together, we would never have been victorious."
Shaking her head, Lady Une murmured in wonder, "It is still pretty amazing to even imagine... a joint army of Strangers. To have so many from different lands and varied walks of life... Weeks ago no one in all of Gaia would have believed such a thing possible."
Under his breath, Treize growled through his clenched teeth, "We have all been a foolishly closed-minded and boastful lot to walk this world in such seclusion. It is long past time that we realize we all share the primal commonality of simply wanting to live and prosper. Such things can only be accomplished through accepting each other."
"Our ways have given Dekim the perfect scenario to claim this world through Mariemaia's gift. If we stand any chance in stopping them, there can only be complete acceptance to undo our old ways. If they wish so much for war, we will be the ones to finish it." All too understanding of the King's frustration, the others around nodded in agreement.
Resting a hand on her husband's arm, Lady Une declared to the Commander, "We have decided to stay and join the White Fang as well." When Sally and Firion opened their mouths to protest, she raised her free hand and stated, "Our daughter is involved and neither of us is about to abandon her now."
She winced as she glanced over to Noin in her armor. "Perhaps I am not yet prepared to demonstrate the same courage as my fellow Queen, here, in taking up the blade. However, I am sure that I could be of assistance elsewhere."
Against the thought of having her Sovereigns risking themselves in such a way after they had so recently being rescued, Po drew a deep breath and offered, "I know first-hand that there is no lack of a need for assistance amongst the Healers. Should it so be your wish to stay, we would be most happy to have you with us." Brightening at that, the Lady nodded her head firmly in a silent decree that it would so be done.
Khushrenada smirked to the long-haired blonde beside him, "I look forward to fighting alongside you and your bride, Zechs. For years, I have heard through whispers of your valor on the throne, and so it would only make sense that you are as fierce a warrior when the people need it most." Sharing a firm handshake with the grinning leader, he grinned, "And it is nice to finally meet you both."
So was another unbreakable friendship formed in light of the gloom that had overtaken their world.
* * * * * *
With Trowa playing his flute and Quatre his violin, Wufei and Anna danced to the sweet and slow song that they performed for their first dance together as husband and wife. And the backdrop to the heart-warming scene was a breathtaking sunset that colored the clear sky a wide array of color.
Seated at the long 'table' of stone at the highest peak of Epyon Ridge, the remainder of the wedding participants enjoyed their meals of the finest meats, fruits and wine that Howard had provided for the special occasion. Sighing in content, Duo leaned his head on Heero's shoulder as they watched their 'brother' and 'sister' twirl around gracefully before them.
"It is so good to see you in this again," the redheaded bride commented softly, a wistful smile on her face as she was pulled close once more.
Leisurely running her right hand along the red collar of ornate swirls and designs that worked their way into the white Monk robe that hugged Chang in its wrap around his muscular body, she met her partner's onyx eyes and giggled, "Along with the emotional attachment that comes with it, you look absolutely incredible in it."
Snickering softly, Wufei leaned in to press and hold a soft kiss against her cheek as they continued to dance. With a soft sigh while they rested their chins on each other's shoulders, he frowned, "I only wish that I could have given you the grand wedding that you truly deserve. If I could do it all again-" His words were cut off when Anna suddenly pulled her head back to close his lips with her own in a deep kiss.
A sad smile on her face when she released the stunned Earth Keeper, the thief urged, "Not another thought of that. I could not have wished or hoped for anything better than what we have had today." Shaking her head, she said sincerely, "I do not need crowds, a church, an expensive hall or any of those material things. I only wanted you with me and to be named your wife. Nothing else in this world matters to me."
Biting his lip as his eyes filled with tears, Chang closed the distance between them again to initiate another deep kiss that he expressed all of his gratitude and adoration through.
Unbeknownst to their conversation, the lot at the table applauded and whistled encouragingly. At the end of their song, Trowa and Quatre lowered their instruments to join in. Blushing as they came up for air, the glowing pair clasped hands and took their places at the center of the arrangement.
Gently nudging the redhead's arm when he returned to her free side, Duo smirked, "So, any discussion of children when this war is over?"
Their eyes blinking in surprise, the newlyweds exchanged a glance before Wufei cleared his throat and glanced over to Howard. "Well, that was originally part of the plan before we realized what we are..." the Monk replied.
"In your human forms you are perfectly capable of bearing children," the Elder snickered in amusement. "Already, you have had nearly a hundred children over the centuries that came to be born with gifted abilities and every one of them made good lives for themselves." The corner of his mouth curling up in a smirk, he shrugged, "I certainly cannot complain."
Gasps rose and jaws fell as wide eyes filled with shock fell on the old man. Finding her voice after a long stillness, Anna breathed, "Y-you are one of our sons?"
Howard bowed deeply at the waist, declaring, "Great, great-grandson, actually."
Patting the top of his bald head, he chuckled deeply, "Back when I had all of my hair and my youth, it was as red as yours, Fire. I am one of the many born of your lineage. And we are amongst the very few that know of your true identities."
To the shimmering gazes of his ancestors, the Elder swallowed past the lump that had formed in his throat and winked, "It was the greatest honor to have joined the two of you in marriage this day."
* * * * * *
The descent of the sun brought on the endless sea of stars that twinkled in the end of the emotion-filled day that came with such promise and hope for the future of Gaia. And for a certain couple that had moved to retire for the evening, so came another rare opportunity to rejoin their bodies as their hearts and souls had always been twined.
When they entered the tall tent of sheets that had been arranged as their 'wedding suite,' the newlywed gasped at the sight of the plush 'bed' of red silks and softly glowing white candles that burned along the 'floor.' Their eyes wide as they took the romantic scene in, they slowly craned their heads around to smile lovingly at each other.
Carefully tightening his hold on Anna who remained secured in his arms, Wufei lifted her up higher as her arms around his neck gave him a squeeze in return.
With ease, the Monk carried his bride to their bed and lowered himself flush on top of her while their lips met in a scorching kiss. Beneath his fingers, the white flowers that made up the thief's dress fell away to cover her hair and the sheets around them at the same time that her hands removed his robe.
Flesh meeting flesh, the moaning and panting lovers arched and moved as one. Gasping at being filled, Fraise's eyes drifted closed and her head fell back against the pillows. Slowly running a hand up along the curves of her smooth, naked skin and the curves of her ample breasts, Chang leaned back down for another kiss that was readily accepted.
"I love you, Misses Anna Chang," the Earth Keeper breathed.
Swallowing roughly, the Fire Keeper met his gaze and smiled, "And I love you, Mister Wufei Chang." At that, she gasped and sighed when her husband moved inside of her.
For the rest of the night, there were few other words spoken between them as there was no need for expression through anything more than action.
* * * * * *
Dekim Barton was not happy as he anxiously paced the floors of the empty throne room that he vowed would belong to him one day.
It had been far too long since he had heard of the progress from the soldiers station at the southernmost cusp of the spreading darkness. Salamand should have been taken with a report returning to Paramecia long before night had fallen.
Little did he know that a messenger was quickly making his way back to the stronghold's castle. And unawares was the dark sorcerer of how much he would regret ever wanting to hear what news they were carrying.
TBC...
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