Griffa laid in bed on the last night of spring. Tomorrow she would be crowned, and she would have to be up before dawn to prepare for her coronation. She should have been asleep ages ago, but she could not sleep. She had too many thoughts running through her mind. She could call for Kedan to come comfort her, but she didn’t want to push her thoughts aside. She wanted to work through them.

For the hundredth time since the battle of Aurumist, Griffa longed for Ansel. She wished she could speak with him. She wished she could hear him tell her not to worry. He would tell her she was the rightful queen, and she had nothing to worry about. He would tell her how wonderful she was. She smiled slightly.

For the first few months when she thought of Ansel, she would cry, but lately she found she could smile at memories of him. It was still painful to think of him being gone, but that pain was not as frequent or as sharp. There were days she could be very merry, teasing Addi, and trading barbs with Talon. She could work on potions with Max, and walk through the city, greeting her people. Life went on, and she had to go on with it. She would never be the same after losing Ansel, but she was slowly finding a new way forward.

Griffa had also noticed something else that was happening. She was spending more and more time thinking of Talon. He had been very sweet with her. He had given her space, while also being there for her. He had talked to her of memories of Ansel. He had been careful to not flirt with her too much, though lately she had shamelessly encouraged him. He had only touched her by holding her hand. The last few weeks, she found that she missed being in his arms. At first, she had felt guilty with these feelings, but she found the guilt was fading.

What was more, she found herself thinking of Talon as her future king. It felt right. The gods had told her he was sent to her to be her king, maybe it was fate after all. Griffa never really believed in fate, but everything about being with Talon felt right to her. She had dreamed of him recently. She felt drawn to him. She could even feel some sort of desire coming back to her when she thought of him. She wasn’t ready for too much yet, but she could admit to herself that she did want him.

Griffa tossed and turned in her bed until she knew she would not sleep. She got up from the bed and put on her robe and slippers. She walked out of her rooms, paying no mind to the two guards by her door. She walked down the stairs into the entry hall and walked into the dark, cool throne room. She looked towards the dais to look at the throne, when she realized she was not alone.

Talon sat on the dais with a small flame in his hand. He was shifting it through his fingers before letting it circle around his wrist. He must have heard her footsteps or sensed her presence because he put out the small flame and looked up at Griffa. He hopped off of the dais and walked towards her as Griffa walked towards him. They met in the middle of the throne room.

Talon took both of her hands wordlessly and stared at her. Griffa smiled and took a breath. She found she wasn’t surprised to find him there, and he didn’t seem overly shocked to meet with her either. Griffa slowly moved closer to Talon. She let go of one of his hands to put her hand on his cheek. He leaned into her hand and pulled her even closer.

“Griffa,” he started softly.

Griffa shook her head, cutting him off. She slowly leaned forward and kissed his lips gently. He wrapped his arm around her pulling her against him as he slowly deepened their kiss. Griffa felt herself smile against his lips. He pulled back and looked at her with a large smile on his own face.

“Soon,” she said quietly. “I’ll be ready, soon.”

He seemed to understand her because he smiled even bigger before pulling her in and holding her.

“You should be asleep, dearest,” he said as he held her. “You have a big day starting in a few hours.”

“I couldn’t sleep,” said Griffa feeling very good as she relaxed in his arms. “I had too much on my mind.”

“What can I do to help?” he asked.

“Will you come stay with me until I fall asleep? I know it’s not right of me to ask, but I don’t want to be away from you.”

Talon pulled back and nodded. He offered Griffa his arm and she took it letting him guide her towards her rooms.

“I will have to make sure I don’t fall asleep in your bed, or I will shock that new assistant of yours,” said Talon as they took the stairs.

“Let her be shocked. She will need to learn what an improper queen she serves at some point. I foresee her being shocked quite often by you in my rooms sometime in the future.”

Talon raised an eyebrow at Griffa as she laughed.

Max stood outside of the temple next to Talon. Max glanced at Talon to see him staring at the temple door. Griffa was inside with Kedan, and she had been in there since dawn. She was required to spend the morning praying to the gods asking for guidance as her protector and the clerics watched over her. At the end of her prayers, the clerics would ask for the gods’ approval. Only the one approved by the gods could wear the crown of Aurumist. The crown would not sit on her head if she was not approved.

Max shifted his legs and blew a puff of air in his face. A bead of sweat ran down his forehead, and Max swiped at it. He pulled his tunic slightly away from him and moved it to create some air against his body. His tunic was forest green and had the sun of Adalwen stitched on his chest. Talon stood straight next to him wearing his own forest green tunic bearing his own family sigil of a fox. Talon looked comfortable, as if the hot summer air didn’t bother him at all. Behind them, closer to the palace, people had started gathering to see the queen as she would walk to the palace. Protector’s guards lined the way waiting for their queen to prepare.

Max sighed as a breeze reached them and blew across Max’s sweaty face. Talon looked at him and smiled.

“Are you not uncomfortably hot?” asked Max as he used his forearm to wipe at his brow.

“Not really,” said Talon. “As a mage, my body tends to acclimate to the weather around me.” Talon raised his hand and sent a soft, cool wind at Max, before looking back at the door.

Max smiled at Talon and said, “You will not make her come out any sooner, watching the door, Talon. She will stay until she is ready. You know she takes her faith and her title very seriously.”

Talon nodded. “I am just nervous about her walk to the palace. I am hoping no one tries anything today.”

“She will be with Kedan. He will keep a shield up the whole time. She will be with us and surrounded by guards. You have helped Kedan set up her protections. You know she is as safe as she can be,” said Max.

“I know,” said Talon. “It just seems that nothing happens easily for our queen. It’s hard to accept she is safe.”

“That’s because she will never be truly and completely safe,” said Max. “She is going to reign as queen during a difficult time for the kingdom. There are many who are still trying to accept the new way of things. She will have to make difficult decisions that will make people angry no matter what she decides.”

“You aren’t making me feel any better, Max,” said Talon.

“I’m not trying to make you feel better. I’m being honest. Still, there are many things we can do to keep her safe. We are doing them now. We will continue to seek out those who would hurt her. You know I want to keep her safe as much as you, Talon.”

Talon nodded and turned back to the temple door.

“She will be loved by most of the kingdom,” said Max. He had seen visions staying in the palace. They weren’t very specific, but Max had feelings and glimpses of things. He knew there would still be struggles. There would still be hurtful and hard times, but Max was confident Griffa would rule long and well.

“I hope you are right, Max,” said Talon. “I don’t see why you wouldn’t be. Of course, the people don’t know half of what she went through for them.”

“Yes,” answered Max. “She went through much, and lost a great deal for the kingdom to go on.”

Talon turned to look at Max. “I know. I wish I could have spared her that loss. I wish he was here today to see this.”

“He may not be here with us,” said Max quietly. “But I have no doubt he is watching.”

Max heard Talon sigh. He looked over to see Talon staring at the ground.

“You shouldn’t feel guilty, you know,” said Max. “He would want her to be happy, and I believe you can make her happy, Talon.”

“Not like she was with him,” said Talon quietly. “She told me she is almost ready, but I don’t know if I can do it, Max. Will she not always be wishing I was him? Will she not always be wanting him instead of me?”

“You know when I lost Issa, I wasn’t sure I would ever love again. She was everything I ever wanted. I still miss her. I still love her, but it doesn’t mean that I can’t love another. You may know that I have recently found myself having feelings for someone. I find that it doesn’t diminish what I had with Issa, but I am also not longing for Issa when I am with Bettina.”

Talon looked up at Max.

“Griffa loved Ansel very much. She always will, but that does not mean she does not love you. I know she loves you, Talon. You know it as well. What she has with you has nothing to do with her feelings for Ansel. If you choose a life with her, I don’t think either of you will be disappointed.”

“If she wants to be with me, I know I wouldn’t be able to resist, even if she wished I was someone else. I just want her to be happy, truly happy.”

“Then trust she knows what she wants, and trust her love for you.”

They both turned as the doors of the temple opened.

Griffa walked out slowly with Kedan at her side. She wore a forest green gown that matched Max and Talon’s tunics perfectly. The sun of Adalwen was stitched over the front of her bodice in gold. Her hair was piled up on her head in a circle of braids. A few of her curls had come loose and dangled on her neck. Max smiled at the sight of her. Talon stood perfectly still, staring at her as Max joined Talon’s side, awaiting Griffa.

She walked confidently down from the temple to stand before them both. Max could feel the magic and power radiating off of her. Talon and Max bowed before her, and she looked down at them.

“Who comes before me?” she asked.

“Talon Wendell, the second on your Ring, and your loyal friend.”

“Maxwell of the line of Adalwen, the great diviner of the ring, and your kin.”

“Will you walk with me on this path I take as Queen of this kingdom?”

“Yes, my queen, we will help you carry this burden. We devote our lives to you and the kingdom,” said the both of them together as they looked up at Griffa.

“Rise, and join me on my path if you are willing,” said Griffa smiling down at them.

They both stood up. Talon and Max joined her at her sides while Kedan walked behind her. They started slowly walking down the path towards the palace. Max saw that Kedan had his hand slightly raised the entire time. Max could feel the shield he had placed around Griffa.

As they walked closer to the castle, Max could see many people crowded together to get a glimpse of Griffa. No one had seen a true king or queen crowned in this lifetime. The ritual hadn’t been used for over 300 years. People talked quietly as Griffa passed. The magical blooded folk and some non-gifted bowed down as she walked towards the palace. Griffa looked straight ahead towards the palace as all in their small group walk silently.

When they reached the palace, two guards opened the doors. Griffa stopped for a second and closed her eyes. After a moment she took a deep breath, opened her eyes, and looked at Max. He gave her a small smile and grabbed her hand for a moment. She cut her eyes to Talon who openly grinned at her. She then looked straight and walked through the door. Max walked by her side as they turned to the doors of the throne room. He could hear people talking from behind the door. The door was opened by two protector’s guards and the room before them fell silent.

The throne room was filled with people, but they had left a path for Griffa to walk. She stepped into the room and slowly walked the path with Talon and Max at her side, as Kedan followed. As they walked, Max looked at the people to the left and the right. He saw several that he knew.

Desmona Delis and Marcus Quick stood in the crowd. Marcus was smiling, and Desmona looked solemn. Max looked at Oliver Devins they passed. Oliver seemed to be watching Griffa, but he turned and winked at Max. Addi was towards the front of the room, and she smiled at all of them. The rest of Griffa’s Ring was gathered in the front of the dais. Bettina looked at Max and smiled at him as he felt himself color slightly. The whole Ring turned and looked at Griffa as she approached.

They followed her progress as she made up to the dais with Talon and Max by her side and Kedan at her back. Griffa walked to the middle of the Dais where the High Cleric from Abscon stood. He was an old man dressed in dark robes. Next to him on a stand was the crown of Aurumist. It was a round gold crown with pointed tips all the way around.

Griffa looked at the high cleric and nodded as Max, Kedan, and Talon stood slightly behind. The cleric addressed the crowd.

“Today we come before the people of this kingdom and our gods to crown the one true ruler of this Regventus, Gryphon Keene. She is of the full blood of Adalwen. She has spent the morning in prayer and meditation. We have asked for her approval by the gods, and now, we will find if she is worthy.”

The cleric carefully picked up the crown of Aurumist. He held it next to Griffa and looked at her.

“Gryphon Keene do you claim you are the heir to this crown?”

“I am the blood of Adalwen and the heir to this crown.”

“Do you claim the right to rule the people of this kingdom?”

“As the Queen of Regventus I claim the right rule with mercy and goodness all who dwell in this kingdom.”

“If approved by the gods, will you serve as Queen until the time is right for another to take your place?”

“I will serve until the time is right for me to step aside,” replied Griffa.

The cleric turned to look at Max and the others. “Do you, who have chosen to walk with her, claim she is the true ruler of this kingdom?”

“Gryphon Keene is the one true ruler of Regventus, there is no doubt,” said Max in unison with the others.

“If she is found worthy, do you devote your lives to serve her?”

“She will be found worthy. We devote our lives in service to our queen.”

The cleric turned back to Griffa.

“Gryphon Keene, kneel before your people and the gods. If you are found worthy by the gods, this crown shall sit upon your head. Once it is there, you agree to rule as the gods see fit.”

Griffa kneeled down, and the cleric held the crown over her head. He bowed his head and closed his eyes. He then opened them and slowly put the crown on Griffa’s head. It sat perfectly there. The cleric took Griffa’s hand and helped her up.

“The gods have approved. They have found Gryphon Keene worthy. She is your queen and the on true ruler of Regventus. She is named today Queen Gryphon of the blood of Adalwen. May she rule long and well.”

The crowd said together, “Our queen has been chosen, may she rule long and well.”

The crowd then kneeled before her. Max and the others on the dais did the same. Max glanced to see Griffa looking out over her people. She then turned to those on the dais.

“You have been with me on this journey. Rise and continue on with me as we rule Regventus fairly.”

The all stood. Griffa turned and looked down at the rest of the Ring.

“My Ring, you have chosen to give me council and support. Rise and vow to serve me and the kingdom.”

The members of the Ring rose as Griffa looked out at the crowd. “You are my people. I vow to remember my responsibility to you. May the gods watch over us and guide us all. Please rise and know that as I rule, I also serve you.”

The crowd rose as Max and Talon walked to Griffa’s side. The crowd applauded enthusiastically as Max took Griffa’s hand and kissed it. She grinned at him as he let her hand go. Talon pulled her close. He took her hand but before he could bring it up to his lips, Griffa reached up and kissed him quickly on his lips. He smiled at her before she then turned and walked before the throne. She took a deep breath and turned around before sitting down. Talon and Max stood by each side with Kedan standing by Max.

“A long life to our queen,” said the cleric loudly.

“May she reign many years with mercy and goodness,” replied the crowd.

The people started to leave to head to the ballroom. While there would be no ball as the Ring had decided the kingdom was not ready for such an event, many of the people would gather to celebrate and greet the queen. The cleric wished Griffa well, and then walked down to join the rest of the people as they left the room. Griffa was left on the dais with Max, Kedan, and Talon.

“This hardly seems real,” she said touching her crown gently.

“It’s very real, my queen,” said Max smiling at Griffa. “It is real, and it is right.”

“I’m not sure I feel any different,” said Griffa. “I hope we have not made some horrible mistake.”

“You have already been our chosen queen for a long time,” said Talon. “Even so, there is no doubt in my eyes looking at you, wearing that crown. I don’t think anyone in this kingdom could have any doubts. Can you not sense your power and magic? Griffa”

“It’s true,” said Max coming to her side.

He could feel the magic coming off of her. He could feel the intense draw she held as his queen. He was almost afraid to touch her, but he carefully took her hand and let their magic mix together. He tried to convey to her how his blood and magic sung in her presence. It called out to her, recognizing its queen.

“Thank you,” said Griffa. She reached up and kissed Max on his cheek, letting go of his hand.

Talon walked up to her and took her hand gently. Griffa drew her hand back as though something had shocked her. She looked up at Talon with confusion on her face. He looked down at her and smiled. Max watched them as they stared at each other, and he knew. The bond between them he could never quite figure out was very obvious. This is the way it was intended. Talon would be Griffa’s king. He was always meant to be Griffa’s king. Max had already figured it would happen, but now he could sense the true bond between them, what had always drawn them to one another. Talon would have no doubts about Griffa’s love for him now.

Griffa slowly took Talon’s hand and smiled at him. He leaned forward and kissed her gently before pulling back. She whispered something to him that made Talon smile, before turning to Kedan.

“Kedan, come stand with me as we go to the ballroom as I meet with the people. I believe you are quite good at this part of ruling.”

“Is this how it’s going to be, Griffa?” asked Talon, laughing. “You will pass your me over for your handsome protector for public appearances?”

“My protector should always be by my side. You will have to get used to working the crowds in favor of your queen. You might as well start today.”

Griffa took Kedan’s arm and walked off the dais. They talked happily as they walked towards the exit in the back of the room.

“I always told Ansel he shouldn’t have found her such a good looking protector,” said Talon quietly to Max. “Perhaps this was his way of being able to torture me forever.”

Max only chucked as he and Talon followed Griffa and Kedan to the ballroom.

Talon stood in the protector’s quarters with Kedan, Griffa, and Addi. Five months after Griffa’s coronation, the rooms were finally done and ready for Kedan to live in them with his son. It had taken a while to find them. They had been boarded up with a large bookshelf over them. They were just down the hallway from Griffa’s room. They found the quarters by following the palace map found in the old book Issa had found when they were trying to rescue Griffa and Max.

After moving the large bookshelf and breaking through the boards, an ornate door with a large tree carved onto it was found. They walked in to find a sitting area with fireplace, a small room off of the sitting room, Kedan said could be used for his son and a large bedroom and a washroom. Griffa had the rooms redone to fit Kedan’s needs. The room was repaired and cleaned, and new furniture was brought in. Talon thought Kedan would be very comfortable there.

“I hope you are happy with your new home, Kedan,” said Griffa walking over to the large fireplace.

“I am very pleased, my queen,” said Kedan.

Talon watched as Griffa went over to the fireplace and traced her hand over the large tree found there. It was once the sigil for the line of Raya, and now belonged to Kedan and the line of Protectors.

“Are you alright, my queen?” asked Kedan walking over to her. “I imagine this is difficult for you.”

Griffa looked up and smiled at Kedan. “It does make me think of him, but I find that I am not sad. He would be pleased to see you in here, Kedan. He believed in you and your ability to carry on the line. You are the first protector to live here in over 300 years.”

“I know,” said Kedan. “I respect the line and all that Ansel taught me. I will honor him, Griffa, by serving you well, and teaching Zayden to serve the next king or queen. Ansel or his line will not be forgotten.”

Griffa took Kedan’s hand and smiled up at him. “You are very worthy of your position, Kedan. I want no one but you as my protector. I think you honor him and his line every day.”

Kedan raised Griffa’s hand kissed it and then turned to look at all of them.

“Would you all like to have a drink with me? I believe Zayden is sound asleep at the moment.”

Addi smiled at Kedan. “I would be happy to sit with you a moment, Kedan.”

Griffa looked at Talon with a small smile. She had told Talon she had a feeling Addi and Kedan were growing rather fond of each other.

“Griffa, you seem tired, perhaps I should escort you to your rooms so you can rest,” said Talon walking up to her and giving a small wink.

“Yes, I believe that would be for the best,” said Griffa. “I will come visit you and Zayden tomorrow, Kedan. You should take a few days to settle in before we spend a week in the kingdom. There are some people I need to visit with.”

Kedan gave Griffa a small bow as Talon escorted her from the rooms and out into the hall. They walked to Griffa’s door. She nodded at the two guards there who opened the door as Talon brought her inside her suite of rooms. The door closed behind them.

She walked to the sofa in front of the fireplace and sat down. “I find that I am not as tired as I thought I was. Would you share a drink with me, Talon?”

Talon smiled and sat down next to Griffa as she poured two glasses of wine on the small table in front of them. She handed one to Talon as she sat back with her own glass.

“Perhaps we should have a toast,” said Griffa.

“What would you like to toast, my queen?” asked Talon.

“Love, it seems to be blooming all around us in the dead of winter.”

Talon chuckled and nodded. “To love then.” They touched glasses and each took a swig of wine. “Do you really think something will come of Kedan and Addi?”

“I hope it does,” said Griffa before taking another sip of wine. “I think they could be well suited. He needs someone to care for him, and she is the most caring person I know.”

“They are both also very devoted to you, my queen. I think if any woman could understand and deal with his bond with you, it would be our Addi.”

“True, between those two and Max and Bettina, I think we could be in store for at least a couple of weddings soon, maybe more,” said Griffa as she glanced at Talon with a sly smile.

Talon took a swig of his wine and looked at Griffa trying to understand what she meant by what she had just said. It had been just over a year since the battle of Aurumist. The first anniversary of the day had passed quietly in the city. Griffa spent the day in her rooms with Max, Kedan, Addi, and Talon. Talon had sat by her the whole time. When it got late everyone else had left, but she had asked Talon to stay with her. He spent the night with her, holding her in her bed. He had not spent a night in his bed since. Nothing had happened between them except a few kisses, but those kisses had lately become more passionate.

Griffa finished her wine and put the glass on the table in front of her before scooting closer to Talon. Talon finished his own wine, putting his glass down and wrapping his arm around Griffa’s shoulder.

“Talon, do you ever think of the future?” Griffa asked as she snuggled into his side.

“Yes, I have thought of the future a lot lately.”

“What do you see?”

“You,” he said, kissing the top of her head. “I see serving you as you see fit. I see you ruling this kingdom well. I see you building Regventus into what it should be.”

“Is that all you see?” she asked.

“No, but I dare not tell you the rest.”

“Why?” she asked looking up at him.

“I am afraid if I speak it, it will not come true.”

“Can I tell you what I see?” she asked as she scooted up closer to him, so they were face to face. She put her arms loosely around his neck as Talon nodded.

“I see you by my side, ruling with me. I see you sharing a life with me. I see you and me raising our children to become the leaders they need to be for the kingdom. Does that scare you?”

“No,” said Talon as he licked his lips. “I see the same thing.”

“You said you would serve me as I see fit, correct?”

“Yes,” he answered.

“Will you serve as my king, then?” asked Griffa.

Talon looked at her. He had hoped and dreamed of this for so long; he found for once in his life, he was speechless.

Griffa moved away slightly and looked down. “I am sorry. I have overstepped. I thought perhaps, but…”

Talon grabbed her and pulled her gently to him. He looked at her. “You are sure?”

“Yes,” she said. “I am very sure. I am ready, Talon. I love you.”

He kissed her with no hesitation. After a moment she pulled back. “So, is that a yes?” asked Griffa.

“Yes, Griffa. I want to marry you. I will marry you tomorrow if you want. I would marry you right now if I could. You must know I have wanted this for a long time. I told you to tell me when you were ready. I said if you said one word to me about it, I would not hesitate to claim you.”

“I was afraid maybe things had changed. I have made you wait so long. I was afraid you had gotten tired of waiting.”

“I would wait for you all my life, it that is what it took. I know you have lost so much, but I will do everything to make you happy. I don’t deserve someone as good as you, but I will do everything I can to become someone worthy of your love.”

“Don’t talk nonsense, Talon. It’s not about who deserves who. I love you, and I want to be with you. I hope you feel the same way,” said Griffa. She stood up and held out her hand. Talon took it and stood up next to her. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her.

As Talon kissed her, he wanted to say many things to her. He wanted to tell her just how much he loved her. He wanted to assure her he wanted her above everything, but he had learned his words were not as important as his actions. He would have years to prove to her how much he loved and wanted her. So instead of telling her how he felt, he worked to show her. He concentrated on the feel of her lips against his and the elation he felt in having her in his arms. He felt like he was almost in a dream. He held Griffa tightly as he kissed her. He might never truly deserve her, but he would do everything he could to be who she needed.

“I would still like to prove to be worthy of you in some way,” said Talon as he pulled back slightly from her.

Griffa grabbed his hand and pulled him towards her bedroom. “Come, my future king,” she said smiling. “I think there are many ways you can prove yourself worthy, and I am quite eager to experience them all.”

Griffa stood before the large mirror in her room on a perfect mid-spring day. She looked at the dark blue gown she wore. The sun of Adalwen with a Keene falcon flying over it was stitched in silver on the skirt. The bodice had a simple diamond pattern stitched on it. Griffa slightly moved some of her curls on each on her shoulders. Her hair was half up with her crown sitting on her head.

“You look lovely, dear,” said Maybell who stood behind her. “You are always beautiful, but I have never seen you look more beautiful than you do today.”

“Are you sure you wouldn’t want to pull all of your hair up, my queen?” asked Elsie, her assistant. “It would be more proper.”

“No,” said Griffa. “Talon says he likes my hair down. I don’t care about being proper. I just want to please him today.”

“You would be beautiful no matter what you wore or how you did your hair,” said Maybell. “I hope this young man realizes what a jewel he is really getting.”

Griffa smiled. She turned to Maybell and took her hand. “He is wonderful, Maybell. You know how much he loves me.”

“I know. I have seen the way he looks at you. I just want him to treat you well.”

“He does, and he will. I am very happy,” said Griffa. “Thank you for being here today. I do miss seeing you. I will come visit you often.”

“I know, my dear, and I will visit you as well. I am very happy, Griffa. I will never think anyone truly deserves you, but I know Talon does love you very much. When he was staying at the manor, there were days I thought he might snatch you up and run away with you, the way he looked at you. In the end I believe your father would be pleased. I know he was skeptical of Talon and his father, but I think seeing the young man as he is now, your father would approve. It is quite something to have a Keene and a Wendell ruling over us as a queen and king.”

“I think you are right about all those things, Maybell. Now, you both need to get to the temple. I have had Addi save a seat for both of you,” said Griffa.

Maybell kissed her cheek quickly as Elsie curtsied. They left the room, leaving Griffa alone. She smiled at herself in the mirror. She couldn’t believe this day was finally here. She would marry Talon. It seemed so unlikely. A year and half ago, this never would ever happen. She had dreamed of marrying Ansel. She would have married him if he had lived, but it was not meant to be. She still thought of Ansel often, but she would do it mostly with a smile. He had asked her to live well and be happy. She planned to do it for him and herself. She did love Talon. She loved him very much. She found that she was deliriously happy.

Griffa looked one more time at herself in the mirror and then turned and walked from the room. She walked down the stairs to find Kedan waiting for her alone in the entry hall. He looked very handsome in his protector’s tunic. He stared at her as she walked down the stairs. He walked to meet her as she reached the bottom of the stairs, taking her hand and kissing it.

“You look beautiful, Griffa,” he said softly.

“You look very handsome as always, Kedan,” said Griffa.

She looked at him standing next to her as her protector. She smiled at him and took his hand, feeling the bond they shared.

“Kedan, thank you for doing this for me,” said Griffa.

I am happy you have chosen me for this honor. I only hope that Talon truly deserves you.”

“You know he does, Kedan. You know how much he has loved me for so long. I am very happy. You must sense how happy I truly am.”

“Yes, and I am happy for you. He definitely loves you, but I will still watch him. He may be my king after today, but nothing comes before you, my queen.”

Griffa leaned up and kissed Kedan’s cheek. “I love you, Kedan. I value you not only as my protector, but also as one of my dearest friends. I hope you are happy living here in the city with me.”

“I find that I like living in Aurumist with you as the queen very much. I am very happy, Griffa.”

“Good,” said Griffa. “Now, hopefully we can find someone for you soon. I have been thinking it over, and I have decided you should marry.”

Kedan laughed. “You have decided that for me, have you? I suppose you have a woman in mind.”

“Yes, and I believe you have the same woman in your mind as well. She is perfect for you, Kedan. I hope you know it.”

“We will see what happens, my queen, but today is your wedding day. You should focus on that.”

“You are right. Today is my wedding day, and I am sure I will be too busy to manage your personal life. You are free to enjoy today as you see fit,” said Griffa.

“We must be going,” said Kedan offering Griffa his arm. “You should not be late for your own wedding day.”

“I will never be late for anything, Kedan,” said Griffa taking his arm. “I am the queen, and I think you will find I am always right on time for every event.”

Kedan laughed at her as he escorted her out of the palace. They walked through the palace gates and into the first Ring of Aurumist. Griffa smiled at him as she felt Kedan’s shield surround her. People had lined up to see the queen walk to the temple. They waved and smiled at her. It was a bright spring day that was warm and pleasant.

As they got to the temple, Kedan turned and looked at Griffa. “Are you ready, my queen?”

“I am,” said Griffa. “I am beyond ready.”

“It looks like everyone is set,” said Kedan looking into the temple. He pulled Griffa close to him. “I am very happy for you, Griffa. I know things may not have turned out as we all planned, but I do believe he will make a good king.”

“I know he will,” said Griffa. “I also know I love him. Things rarely turn out as we plan, Kedan, but that does not mean we cannot all be happy. He is second to no one to me. I will have no regrets.”

The walked into the temple to see benches had been set up all around the statue of the gods. A cleric stood in front of the statue. Addi stood on one side looking very pretty in her red gown. Griffa looked to the other side to see Max and Talon looking at her. Talon stared at her as she and Kedan slowly walked towards them. He was wearing a black tunic with the sun of Adalwen stitched on the front. Two small silver foxes were stitched on his shoulders to represent his family sigil. He looked more handsome than she had ever seen him. Everything about what was happening felt so right. Talon’s eyes looked almost as if they had tears in them. Griffa glanced to the sides as she walked down towards the statue.

She saw Nora, holding her young daughter, smiling at her with Cillian sitting by her side. She saw Addi smile at her before turning her eyes to Kedan and blushing. She saw Maybell with tears in her eyes sitting close to Clara and other Ring members. Then Griffa just looked at Talon as she got close to him. He was staring at her with a bright smile on his face. When they got to the front, Talon came close to her. Kedan took Griffa’s hand and kissed it. He then placed it in Talon’s hand and walked to stand by Max. Talon walked with her up to stand in front of the cleric.

The ceremony passed almost in a blur to Griffa. The cleric said some words and then a prayer. He then turned to Griffa.

“Queen Gryphon of the blood of Adalwen do you pledge yourself to Talon Wendell. Do you promise to show love and respect to him? Do you freely bond yourself to him as his wife?”

“I pledge to always respect and love him as my husband. I freely enter into a lifelong bond with him.”

The cleric turned to Talon.

“Talon Wendell do you pledge yourself to your Queen, Gryphon of the blood of Adalwen. Do your promise to show love and respect to her. Do you freely bond yourself to her as her husband?”

Talon stared at her and took a breath. “I pledge to always respect and love her as my wife. I freely enter into a lifelong bond with her.”

“Do you pledge to serve as her king consort, serving you queen freely, and helping her as she sees fit?”

“I will serve my queen however she needs me. I gladly pledge myself to her as her king consort.”

“Do you vow to serve the kingdom as the king, giving your loyalty only to your queen and the kingdom.”

“I will gladly serve the kingdom and my queen, knowing nothing comes before my loyalty to Regventus and my queen.”

The cleric held two simple silver rings in his hand. He squeezed them together in his closed fist and then opened his hand. Griffa and Talon each took one and placed it on each other’s finger.

The cleric then took their hands and joined them together. Talon gripped Griffa’s hand and looked at her. Griffa could feel tears coming to her eyes. The cleric put his hand over their conjoined ones.

“Do you both swear to spend this life together until the end, and find each other on your next adventure where you will travel on together forever?”

“Yes,” they both said at the same time.

“I join these two together in this life and the next. The gods bless this union, and nothing should ever cause it to be undone.”

Griffa felt her hand grow warm. She felt as though something wrapped around their hands tying them together. She looked at Talon and felt nothing but intense love for him.

The cleric moved his hand away from theirs. He said some more words and prayers, but all Griffa could concentrate on was Talon and the love she felt for him. He gazed back at her, looking at her with so much love, Griffa thought she had never been happier.

“We celebrate the love of our queen and king, may the gods guide them and us in the days to come.”

With that the ceremony was over. Griffa and Talon walked out of the temple. Kedan followed at a short distance. The people started to leave the temple as Talon and Griffa approached the palace gates. Talon started walking quicker, dragging Griffa with him. They entered the palace, and Talon took Griffa into the study off of the throne room. He closed the door quickly and turned to her. He pulled her close to him, and put his hand behind her neck, bending down and kissing her.

“We will have to go to the ballroom soon, Talon,” said Griffa as they pulled apart. “Everyone will be waiting for us, and we will have to make our appearance on the balcony.”

“They can wait for a little longer. It will take them a while to all get to the ballroom,” said Talon as he bent down and kissed Griffa again.

He led her to the sofa in the sitting area in the front of the room. He sat her down and kissed her over and over.

“I am afraid I will hardly be presentable after this,” said Griffa breathlessly as Talon raised her skirt with his hand.

“I will help you set things to right, but above all you will look like a wife who is very loved by her husband.”

“Hmm, my husband,” said Griffa purring as Talon kissed her neck, slowly laying her down on the sofa. He his hand moved slowly up her thigh, and Griffa moaned, “My king.”

Talon looked at her, making a low noise in his throat. “Good gods, Griffa, do you ever want me to let you leave this room?”

“Do you like when I call you that, my king?” asked Griffa before kissing Talon’s jaw.

She decided he did like it. He seemed to like it very much.

Griffa and Talon did eventually make it to the ballroom. No one commented on their late appearance until Max smirked at her as he danced with her.

“I see that you were a little late for your own wedding ball, my queen,” said Max.

“A queen is never late, Max. She is always right on time.”

“I suppose that is true, Griffa,” said Max as he waved his hand behind her upper back. “I would comment that a few of your buttons had seemed to come undone, but I suppose it’s not polite to tell a queen that in public.”

“Not polite at all,” said Griffa. “Now, how long until we celebrate again with your own wedding.”

“Just a few months. Bettina wanted you to have some time with your husband before she asked you to travel to Arialla”

“You are betrothed, and you didn’t even tell me,” said Griffa smacking Max gently.

“It was very recent, and you have been busy preparing for your own wedding. You are the first person that has been told besides Oliver.”

“When I get back, we will have to celebrate. I am very happy for you, Max. She is quite a young woman. I think you are both very fortunate to have found each other.”

“She is wonderful. I have been very lucky in love in my short life, to have found two extraordinary women to love me.”

“I believe we have both been blessed that way, Max. It sounds like it should be hard, that our hearts would be divided, but I find I have plenty of room for my love of Ansel that still remains, and the love I have for Talon. They do not conflict in any way.”

“I know what you mean, Griffa. If anything, Issa’s love helped me to understand my love for Bettina. Issa helped make me who I am. Bettina is a continuation of that. Our lives are like a story, every part is important towards making the proper ending.”

“I will always miss him, Max,” said Griffa softly. “I know you understand that as well.”

“I do, but I don’t think you will ever regret your life with Talon,” said Max. “Live well, and be happy, Griffa. That is all Ansel every wanted for you.”

“No, I will have no regrets spending my life with Talon.”

Talon and Griffa made their appearance on the balcony with Kedan behind them. They waved to the crowds below who seemed very happy to see their king and queen. Some also seemed equally happy to see Kedan, but Griffa didn’t mind. Before long folk were starting to leave the ballroom, which meant Talon and Griffa could leave as well. Kedan had suggested to go to the river house the palace owned. He said it would be the perfect place for a newly wedded couple to spend a few days.

Kedan wasn’t enthusiastic about Griffa leaving without him, but she knew he understood it. He stood in the entryway with Max, Bettina, and Addi as Griffa and Talon came down the stairs after changing and grabbing their cases. Griffa took Kedan’s hand.

“It will only be for a few days. Gets some rest and enjoy some time with your son. I have left some potion in your room to help you sleep, as well as the techniques for managing any discomfort you feel from being away from me. I will put my shield down several times a day so you can check in on me.”

“I hope you have a pleasant time, my queen. I will miss you, but I am glad you are getting away.”

“Thank you, protector,” said Griffa smiling. “I look forward to seeing you and Zayden when I return. I believe there is someone else here will be glad to have your time as well.”

Kedan smiled slightly and glanced at Addi. “I think you are right, my queen.”

Griffa hugged Addi as Addi whispered. “I will miss you, Griffa, but I hope you do enjoy your time away.”

Griffa kissed Addi’s cheek. “I hope you are able to enjoy my time away as well.”

Addi blushed and smiled.

Griffa then walked up to Max who was speaking with Talon. Whatever Talon had said, made Max chuckle and shake his head.

“What did I miss?” asked Griffa.

“Nothing you need to worry about, my love,” said Talon taking her hand.

“Take care of the kingdom while we are gone, Max,” said Griffa. “If anything comes up you can contact me.”

“You should go to Clara first. It better be something very large like the destruction of the entire city if you do contact Griffa,” said Talon.

Griffa elbowed Talon slightly. “Really, Max if you need anything, you can send me a message.”

“I think I can keep the kingdom running for a few days, Griffa. Go enjoy yourself,” said Max. He took her hand and squeezed it before letting it go.

“I suppose you will have plenty of help,” said Griffa looking at Bettina. She leaned in and hugged the young woman. “I am very happy for you. I look forward to celebrating when I return.”

Bettina smiled. “I am very happy, my queen. I hope you know how much I love him. I know how important he is to you.”

“I don’t think he could have made a better choice,” said Griffa letting Bettina go.

Griffa turned back to Max. She took his hand.

Griffa nodded. “Max, I hope you do know how much you mean to me. It seems an age since we met, but it hasn’t been that long. It’s hard to believe were we started to see how it all ended.”

“It hasn’t ended, Griffa. It’s actually just begun, and everything is as it should be,” said Max smiling. “Go enjoy yourself for a while. You have earned some relaxation and merriment.”

“As have you, Max. I am so very happy for you” said Griffa gripping his hand.

“I am happy for you, as well,” said Max.

Griffa bent down and kissed Max’s cheek.

“Go on,” said Max. “I will see you in a few days.”

Max looked at Talon and said, “There are no doubts, Talon. You have nothing to fear.”

Griffa let go of Max’s hand and looked curiously at Talon. Talon took her hand and smiled, leading her to the middle of the entrance hall. “I’ll tell you later,” Talon whispered and Griffa nodded.

Griffa looked at Talon and concentrated on Kedan’s description of the River House. She soon felt herself travel.

**********************************************************

Griffa leaned on the rail of the bedroom balcony overlooking the river. Talon stood behind her with his arms around her. He had moved her hair and was lightly kissing her neck. Griffa watched as the sun started to set over the river.

“This is a beautiful kingdom,” said Griffa watching the sun set.

“It is very beautiful,” whispered Talon as he pulled her against him. He kissed Griffa’s shoulder.

“I am being serious, Talon,” said Griffa turning slightly to look at him.

“So am I,” he said putting his chin on her shoulder. “You are a part of the kingdom, and the most beautiful part of it I have ever seen.”

She smiled. “I want to be a good ruler of this kingdom. I want to be worthy of being called the queen.”

Talon leaned up and pulled Griffa around to look at him. “You are a very good ruler of this kingdom. It has already been proven time and time again that you are worthy of your title. You should never doubt yourself,”

“I don’t doubt myself. I just want to make sure I remind myself from time to time how fortunate I am to be able to lead such a beautiful, wonderful kingdom.”

“And we as your folk should remind ourselves how we are fortunate to have such a loving, powerful, beautiful queen,” said Talon. He bent down and kissed her.

“What did Max mean with what he said to your back in the palace?”

Talon smiled sadly and looked down. “I had feared you might wish I was someone else at times. I thought perhaps you might always yearn for him as your husband.”

Griffa looked down to catch his eye. “Look at me, please, Talon. He was and is very important to me. I do love Ansel still, but it has nothing to do with what I feel for you. I can tell you for certain I am wishing for no one but you to be by my side today. In the study I can guarantee I was only thinking of you.”

“I know, my love. I do not want you to forget him. I don’t want to forget him. I hope you know how much I cared about him as well. I trust in your love, and I know we will be happy.”

“We will because we have decided it is so. I know hard times will come, but I know I will always be happy you are by my side.”

Talon pulled her close and kissed her again. After pulling back he said. “Take a few moments and just enjoy where you are, Griffa. After all you have been through, you are here with me in this beautiful place.”

“You are right,” said Griffa as she wrapped her arms around Talon. “And after all that has happened, there is no place I would rather be.”