She stands beside him, in white silk and lace with shining eyes and a gentle smile. He wears his father's colors and the bracelet he and Mother mysteriously left him the day of Emperor Alvis's defeat.
The day of one's wedding is often a time to reflect on the end of childhood, but theirs ended the moment Celice picked up his sword and struck their first blow against the Empire. They grew up quickly on the battlefield, destined to pick up the pieces of a fight for peace and justice gone wrong.
With the end of the war came the beginning of worldwide reconstruction, and with the end of that came forth a new era of peace and justice.
Life is a series of beginnings and endings, but for Celice and Rana today is only another beginning. Celice slowly lifts her veil and presses his lips to hers, and the crowd cheers.
"I present to you King Celice and Queen Rana of Grandbell," the priest announces as their kiss ends. The crowd grows louder, and the couple proudly steps forward and bows to their adoring public. Then they sneak a knowing glance at each other, and Rana blushes.
Today may be their first day as King and Queen, but tonight will be their first night as man and wife.