Eve of the Wedding

One day remained before Solomon and Nahar's wedding, and the castle buzzed with activity. Ariel watched Nahar and Damian interact, her visions still hinting at a deeper connection.

"Nahar's falling for him," Ariel whispered to Henry, her eyes fixed on the pair.

Henry's brow furrowed. "Ariel, Nahar's engaged to Solomon. She cares for Damian as a friend."

Ariel's gaze lingered. "I've seen it, Henry – the way she smiles, the way Damian looks at her."

Henry placed a reassuring hand on Ariel's shoulder. "You're misinterpreting their bond. Nahar loves Solomon."

Ariel's expression remained uncertain.

Meanwhile, Nahar and Damian strolled through the castle gardens, discussing literature and poetry.

"I never knew royalty could be so... relatable," Damian said, chuckling.

Nahar's laughter echoed through the gardens. "We're not all formalities, Damian. We have passions too."

As they walked, Solomon approached, a warm smile on his face.

"Nahar, our final preparations await."

Nahar's eyes sparkled. "I'm ready, Solomon. Tomorrow can't come soon enough."

Damian stepped back, a genuine smile on his face. "I'm honored to stand by you both tomorrow."

Solomon clapped Damian's back. "Brother, you're family. Your place is beside us."

Ariel observed the exchange, her doubts lingering.

The castle's dining hall filled with warmth and laughter. Solomon, Henry, Damian, Ariel, and Nahar gathered around the table, sharing stories and memories.

As dinner concluded, the group lingered, reluctant to break the spell of camaraderie.

"I remember when Solomon and I were children," Henry said, chuckling. "We'd sneak into the kitchen and steal pastries."

Solomon grinned. "And get caught every time."

Damian's eyes sparkled. "I wish I'd been there."

Nahar's smile softened. "You're here now, Damian. That's all that matters."

Ariel listened intently, her visions momentarily forgotten.

As night deepened, the conversation turned to Solomon's wedding.

"Tomorrow's going to be perfect," Nahar said, her voice filled with excitement.

Solomon took her hand. "With you by my side, it already is."

Henry raised his cup. "To the happy couple! May their love continue to grow."

The group echoed Henry's toast, their glasses clinking together.

As the evening wore on, Damian stood, his voice filled with emotion.

"Brothers, I'm grateful for your acceptance. I promise to support and protect you both, always."

Solomon and Henry exchanged a glance, their eyes shining, still they felt pain for not being the true rulers of Emberhaven.

"We're family, Damian," Solomon said, embracing his younger brother. "Forever."

The night air filled with laughter and tears as the group shared hugs and well-wishes.

As the last candle flickered out, Ariel glanced at the sky.

"The stars are aligned," she whispered to Nahar. "Tomorrow will be a beautiful day."

Nahar smiled, her eyes sparkling. "I know it will."

Would it though?