Chapter 13: Una-fication

                                    

                                          
The day was warm, the sun high in the kingdom of the dark. Its rays glistened off the high stone walls of the Dusk Dragon's temple. Inside it was quiet, except for the drone of the priest as he conducted a royal marriage ceremony. The atmosphere was as warm as the two lovers' hearts were filled with anxious love.
Xander smiled resting his hand on Aemilia's as he looked at his brother who stood at the altar with his soon-to-be wife. The ceremony was beautiful, but so was Una. Any man not to think so was a fool, even if she had given birth only a few days ago which postponed the ceremony for a few weeks. 
Her dress was silk and velvet, white with light purple and gold accents around the hem and down the front. It was form-fitting to her waist where it came out as traditional royalties would. She had princess sleeves laced with white along with them. She had made it herself during her pregnancy and it was incredible. Her veil was perfect having the same embroidered flowers on the top and a crown, a gift from Aemilia who's father was also, conveniently, a blacksmith. She also wore a necklace that was her mother's, a gift from Garron. She was a spitting image of Venus.
Leo looked handsome as well. He's chosen a royal blue for his groom's suit. He had folded sleeves and silver on the edges. Underneath he's accented it with a white button-up and white ascot. He too was very good-looking, having exchanged his usual headband to a silver circlet. That was a gift from their father as he was marrying. 
Leo and Una smiled at each other as the priest droned on. Xander thought Una's choice of the flowers was odd as she's chosen a simple wildflower called a cornflower. He held Aemilia's hand tightly as he saw Una blush slightly but keep her eyes locked in Leo. The priest finally asked them for their vows and Leo started. He took her hand and the silver band they'd chosen and said.
                          
"Of all my siblings, I know I was the last one they'd expected to marry first. Not that I knew they were wrong, but I never thought I'd find love and I believed it, too. The day you walked into the library, was the day you walked into my heart. You opened me like a book and read me better than anyone. I may be your favorite book for now, but I have confidence that will not change even in death. You saved me in more ways than you could ever understand." He said and put the ring on her finger.
She smiled and took hers, then took his hand in hers. " You've shown me a world I never thought I'd see. I've read too many romantic novels not to fantasize about finding 'true love'. You've given me more than I'll ever need. But most of all you've given me a home by your side. I will never have to wonder where I belong or who my family is because I've made my own with you. Leo, you are my rock and I'm a little lost without you. "
                          
He smiled as well as she put the ring on him.
                          
"Let these rings be a symbol of the bonds that hold you loyal to each other. Prince Leo, if you will please seal the bind, you may kiss your bride." The priest finished.
                          
Leo smiled and put his hands on Una's hip. She blushed slightly as he leaned in. Their lips met softly in a kiss as she rested her hand on his shoulder. He held her close to him for a second before letting go.
                          
"May the Gods bless your marriage with prosperity and happiness." The priest said finishing the ceremony.
                          
The others stood to clap for them. Xander stood beside Aemilia as she held Forrest. Xander saw Una shoot them a happy before Leo took her hand and lead her down the aisle. 
                          
The next time they met they were at the Northern Castle, where the reception would take place. By then Una had changed to a much more comfortable dress, a simple light blue dress with silver along the hemlines. This one had a flowing skirt.
Leo stood next to her waiting for his brother to arrive. Corrin was talking to Una and seemed to be annoying her. Leo pulled her close just as Xander came in with Aemilia and Forrest. Aemilia handed Forrest to Una.
"He's asleep," Aemilia said.
" Thank you so much, Aemilia. I know you and Xander aren't married yet but you really will make a great mother. "
Aemilia blushed and glanced at Xander who had a slight blush but kept his composure, "I'd hope so. If the Gods permit it."
Una smiled and nodded as Leo looked over at his son, "He's getting so big."
Una laughed, "He is, isn't he?"
Leo rested his head on her, "I'm so proud."
"Me, too. He'll grow to be big and strong, like his father. "
"But hopefully as gentle and kind as his mother."