Marriage

The announcement of Basil's decision reverberated through the Eryndor household, and it didn't take long for the news to reach Lira. While the family members absorbed the idea with various reactions, one thing was clear: preparations were to begin immediately.

Lady Anarya, with her commanding presence, took charge of the arrangements. She delegated tasks to the wives and siblings, ensuring that everything would proceed smoothly. "It may not be a grand ceremony like Celeste's," she declared, "but it will be memorable for Lira."

Freya, Basil's youngest sister, couldn't contain her excitement. She skipped through the halls, her dragon tail swishing with glee as she talked about dresses and decorations. "Lira will look so beautiful!" she exclaimed, clutching a small bundle of flowers she had picked from the garden.

Meanwhile, Lady Elira and Lady Selene focused on the logistics. Elira, with her noble upbringing, ensured that the invitations to close allies were sent promptly. "We'll keep it intimate," she said, writing out the guest list. "This isn't just about tradition; it's about making Lira feel truly welcome."

Selene, ever the practical one, oversaw the decorations. Her keen eye for detail transformed the dining hall into an elegant yet modest setting. She chose deep crimson and gold as the theme, colors that symbolized loyalty and strength.

As the family busied themselves with preparations, Basil took a moment to find Lira. He found her in the servants' quarters, her usual composure shaken. She stood by the window, gazing out at the sprawling estate with an unreadable expression.

"Lira," Basil called softly.

She turned, startled, her eyes wide with emotion. "My lord?" she asked, her voice wavering.

Basil stepped closer, his imposing figure casting a shadow across the room. "Why are you here, hiding?" he asked, his tone gentle but firm.

Lira's hands trembled as she clasped them together. "I... I don't belong in the great hall," she said, lowering her gaze. "I'm just a maid. This is all too much."

Basil reached out, lifting her chin so she would meet his eyes. "You are not just a maid," he said, his voice unwavering. "You have stood by me when no one else did. You've earned your place, and it's time the world sees it too."

Tears welled up in Lira's eyes, but she blinked them away, nodding silently. Basil smiled faintly and added, "Come with me. The family is waiting."

Back in the great hall, Freya ran up to Lira, clutching her hand. "Lira! You're going to be my new sister! I'm so happy!" she exclaimed, pulling her toward the table where the others were seated.

Lady Anarya stood, her dragon-like features softened by a warm smile. "Lira," she said, "this day is as much yours as it is Basil's. Let us celebrate it properly."

The preparations continued into the evening, with laughter and chatter filling the halls. Despite the modest scale, every detail carried a sense of purpose and care. Freya insisted on helping Lira choose a dress, while Celeste offered her advice with a knowing smile. "You'll be stunning," Celeste assured her. "Basil won't be able to take his eyes off you."

As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the estate, Lira stood in her room, gazing at her reflection in the mirror. The dress she wore was simple yet elegant, a deep crimson gown that complemented her natural beauty. Freya's small hands adjusted the hem, her excitement palpable. "You look perfect," she declared.

Lira's heart swelled with a mixture of emotions—gratitude, nervousness, and an overwhelming sense of belonging. For the first time, she allowed herself to believe that she truly deserved this happiness.

In the dining hall, the family gathered for a celebratory feast, their spirits high. Basil, seated at the head of the table, raised his glass. "To Lira," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "The woman who has always been my strength. From this day forward, you are one of us."

Cheers erupted around the table, and as Lira looked at the faces surrounding her, she knew that this was more than a marriage. It was a homecoming, a new chapter in her life where she would no longer stand in the shadows but walk proudly beside the man she had always served and loved.