Touch of Flame

Chanan's voice was warm and inviting as he prompted them, "You may now exchange your vows, a testament of your love and commitment, a promise for your future together."

Malachi stood resolutely, his hands gently cradling Ravina's. She wondered if he had written his vows or if he would speak from memory. What would he have written? What would he say? She was very curious to know as her heart pounded with every breath she took. Her hold on his hands tightened and he gave her a gentle squeeze. Then began, his voice steady and filled with emotion, "From the highest peaks of ancient mountains to the hidden depths of mystical caverns, my heart has yearned for a flame that echoes its own. In you, I have discovered more than a flame; I have found an inferno. As the Dragon King, I have journeyed through realms both seen and unseen, yet, in you, I unearth a treasure beyond compare.

With the might of my wings and the depth of my heart, I vow to shield our love with a vigilance that surpasses the guarding of my most precious possessions. I promise to nourish our flame, ensuring it outshines the darkest of nights and endures the coldest of winters. I will be your unwavering strength when you feel frail, your shelter in times of descent, and the spark that reignites your spirit when shadows loom near. Together, we will soar to new heights, bound by a love as eternal as the stars.

Ravina, before the elements and ancient spirits that witness our bond, do you accept my heart, my flame, and all that I am?"

Tears shimmered in Ravina's eyes as she listened to his heartfelt words. "I do," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. The crowd erupted in cheers.

She took a deep breath, preparing to recite her own vows. Sensing her nervousness, Malachi gently soothed her hands with his thumbs. She looked up into his eyes, finding reassurance in his gentle smile.

Gathering her thoughts, she began, "In my life's journey, filled with challenges and loneliness, I never knew that my soul searched for a place to belong. Then I found you. Your eyes sparked a light in my once dark path. You've been my shield, my guide, and the force that has changed me deeply.

With you, I found strength and courage that I never knew I had, like a sunrise after the darkest night. In your embrace, I found my true home, where my spirit healed and grew. Today, as your partner, I vow to be your safe place, just like you've been mine. I promise to stand by you, sharing our challenges and joys. In our quiet times, I'll be your support and encouragement, always there, in both ordinary and extraordinary moments.

With you, I've found more than a home; I've found a life fully lived. Do you accept my heart, my love, and the promise of all my tomorrows?"

"I do," Malachi smiled.

Chanan beamed at their exchange of vows. As the applause and whistles began to fade, he spoke with a joyful authority that resonated through the gathering. "Now, and in the presence of these witnesses, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may seal your union with a kiss."

The ambient sound of the flute dwindled to a tender murmur, echoing the rhythm of Ravina's racing heart. Malachi stepped forward, his movements deliberate and gentle. He reached for the hem of her veil, lifting it with reverence, revealing her face. As the veil fell away, Ravina looked up at him, feeling a surge of emotion, as if seeing him for the first time, but now as her husband.

Their eyes locked in a moment of profound connection before Malachi leaned in. Ravina's eyes fluttered shut as their lips met, igniting a cheer from the crowd that seemed to fade into the background. She was wholly immersed in the kiss, that sealed they new bond. A peculiar warmth spread from her neck, where the mark lay, enveloping her in a sensation akin to being draped in a gentle fire. As they parted, the drums picked up, mirroring the beat of her heart. Malachi's steady hands grounded her as the world seemed to sway momentarily in the wake of their kiss.

The crowd broke into a dance, clapping, cheering, whistling; their movements a celebration of the newlyweds' love. Some approached the altar, inviting Ravina and Malachi to join the dance.

Ravina, who considered herself a less than skilled dancer, had nonetheless prepared for this moment. The swirling dance was a cherished tradition, symbolizing the joy of the bride and groom.

"Are you ready to dance?" Malachi asked, a playful tease in his voice.

"I have practiced," Ravina replied, her voice laced with playful defiance. "Alright then," Malachi's smile radiated warmth as he gently placed his arm around Ravina's waist. With a fluid, graceful motion, he lifted her, twirling her through the air. Her wedding dress billowed out like a red sea with golden stars, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

Around them, the rhythm of celebration took hold. Guests moved in harmony, their steps a blend of dancing, swirling, and laughter. Amidst this jubilant chaos, Ravina let go of any self-consciousness, her focus solely on Malachi. Their movements synced to the music, a dance of two souls in perfect unison.

Gradually, Malachi drew her close, their dance slowing to a more intimate pace. He gazed into her eyes, an expression of serene joy and love etched on his face. "I have become the luckiest man today," he whispered, his voice barely audible over the music.

"And I, the luckiest woman," Ravina replied, her smile reflecting the depth of her happiness. Her heart swelled with an overwhelming sense of completeness, knowing she was exactly where she was meant to be.

In a moment that felt suspended in time, Malachi leaned in, pressing his lips against hers. They kissed, enveloped in their own world, as the lively dance of their friends and family swirled around them. ****

A/N Thank you so much for your patience and for everyone who reached out. I am a little better now thank you. I thought to end this here and hope you liked how it ended. I am also thinking of doing side chapters with a glimpse into the future with all couples instead of ending with three weddings after one another. It felt weird doing so and I thought a bit into the future would be more interesting. I will be back with Midnight Surrender before continuing with Captive of Night as I haven't fully recovered, so taking it slow. Thank you so much for all the support and seeing to the end of this book.