Touch of Flame

Ravina could hear the resonant beat of drums outside as she prepared for her wedding, cocooned in a whirl of excitement and nerves. Her sister, Darcy, and the one she considered a sister now, Georgia, together with Araminta, were at her side, ensuring every detail of her attire was perfect. She donned a sumptuous red dress, richly adorned with golden embroidery that shimmered opulently, enhancing her fair complexion and echoing the golden hues in her hair, making her appear regal and affluent.

As Araminta delicately applied makeup to Ravina's face and added subtle scents, the final touch was the veil. Thin and translucent, it draped over her face, its golden embroidery slightly obscuring her view but adding to her bridal mystique.

"You look stunning," Araminta remarked, her voice quivering with barely concealed emotion. Ravina noticed the tears brimming in her eyes - a pact to not cry—yet emotions ran high.

Darcy and Georgia beamed at her, their smiles infectious. Ravina felt a surge of gratitude for gaining another sister in her life.

"Alright, are you ready?" Araminta asked, straightening her own dress.

Taking a deep, steadying breath, Ravina nodded. "Yes." Gently lifting her dress, she followed Araminta to the door.

Her father awaited her outside, dapper in his suit. His expression softened into a smile, tinged with awe and a hint of disbelief. "I am glad to be here on this day," he said warmly as he approached her. "Me too," she murmured. Linking her arm with his, her heart fluttering with anticipation as he led her out. The wedding was a blend of her traditions and Malachi's, featuring a procession down the aisle. As they stepped into the open, the drumbeats intensified, guiding them through the streets towards the ceremony. The night sky, speckled with stars, stretched above them, smoke curling into its expanse.

The wedding venue was a spectacle of festivity and warmth. A thousand fires cast a golden glow, illuminating decorations of vibrant flowers and lush leaves that adorned the space. The gathered crowd, a sea of faces lit by firelight, erupted in cheers as they caught sight of Ravina. At the end of the red carpet, her father paused, giving her a moment to take in the scene.

Her heart raced as her eyes traced the path to the altar. The drums fell silent, giving way to the mellifluous tune of a flute. And there, at the end of the aisle, stood Malachi. Dressed in his traditional attire, Malachi stood with a regal bearing. His black garments, intricately laced with gold, encircled his waist and were secured by a thick golden belt. His sun-kissed skin radiated under the flickering firelight, the glow accentuating his muscular arms, adorned with golden cuffs. A hefty gold necklace lay proudly around his neck, adding to his majestic presence.

As Malachi's gaze met Ravina's, even his preparation for this moment couldn't dull his astonishment. Her fair skin contrasted starkly against the deep red of her dress, leaving him momentarily breathless. The dragon within him, lately so composed, stirred at the sight of her, evoking memories of their first encounter. A fond smile touched his lips, recalling how she had once teased him with her red dress when he was captive in the cave.

The longing to see her face behind the veil grew intense, despite having seen her just that morning. It felt like an unveiling after a long separation.

Ravina, escorted by her father, walked down the aisle, her initial focus on Malachi gradually expanding to the familiar, joyful faces around her.

She spotted Kayla and Brenna with their partners, Nako and Mara also accompanied by their mates. Jonathan, Eric, and Noah, dressed in dragon traditional clothes, offered her encouraging smiles and nods, which she returned with a warm smile.

Approaching Meredith, standing beside Andrew and his wife, Yvaine, Ravina felt a sense of reconciliation. Though things were somewhat still awkward, their presence was a comforting affirmation. Meredith and Andrew greeted her with smiles.

Nearby, Darcy and Ephraim, resembling a royal pair, beamed at her, their joy infectious. Ravina felt a surge of emotion, struggling to hold back tears.

Turning to the other side, she saw Ares and Nazneen. Nazneen mouthed a compliment, and Ares nodded in approval. Next to Ares stood Bram. Ravina's heart clenched at the sight of him, her eyes brimming with tears for seeing him after such a long time and then… the tears fell when she saw Ester. Oh Ester. Her steps slowed, and she fought the urge to run over and hug both of them. The longing to embrace them was overwhelming. Bram's eyes glistened with tears as he smiled at Ravina. Her lips quivered into a smile, grateful for the veil that hid her emotions. Ester waved at her and Ravina waved back. As she neared the altar, she saw Malachi's brothers lined up at the end of the aisle. She gave each a thoughtful look, pausing at Aaron, who mouthed words she couldn't quite make out. Reflecting on her journey, she marveled at how her life had transformed. Once engulfed in misery, she now stood amidst a new, expansive family of dear friends.

Reaching the altar, her father tenderly guided her up the steps. In a symbolic gesture, he gently took her hand and placed it in Malachi's, his eyes conveying a mix of pride and emotion. "Take care of her," he whispered to Malachi, a fatherly request laden with trust.

Malachi clasped her hand and replied softly, "With all that I am, I will." His voice resonated with sincerity and a solemn promise.

As her father stepped back, Ravina and Malachi shared a moment of silent communion, their eyes meeting through the red veil. She thought she saw a hint of tears in his eyes as well.

The officiant, Chanan, cleared his throat, breaking the spell between them. "Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, today we celebrate the union of Ravina and Malachi. We're here not just to witness their vows, but to surround them with our love and support as they begin their married life together."

Chanan continued, "In the presence of loved ones, Ravina and Malachi will declare their love and commitment. Let's unite in spirit as we share in this momentous occasion in their lives." His words echoed warmly, encapsulating the essence of the ceremony and inviting all present to partake in the celebration of their love.