#Author's Note: To those who have already read Encore, please don't be confused. I merely changed the order of the chapters as I have merged one of the first two when I updated. Don't worry, the flow of the story is still the same. ^^
Full & Detailed Timeline in Chronological Order:
Ch. 1: June 2013 – End of Dark Moon filming; Ren's proposal after being together with Kyoko for 3 years
Ch. 2: Tuesday, around 3- 4:00 PM of September 2013 – Ren & Kyoko's live conference announcing they're engaged; a peek at the wedding invitation
Ch. 3: April 2014 - Ren & Kyoko were filming "The Count of Monte Cristo" in Europe; Christian Dior, Jelly Woods & Giorgio Armani arrived in Japan
around 8- 10:00 AM - Ren & Kyoko's Kyoto fangirls' most memorable and first time experience of the Hizuri-Mogami pre-wedding fever;
10:00 PM - The Insider special edition broadcast started as promised by Ren during the conference
Ch. 4: April 2014
11:05 PM – The special broadcast continues
12:00 Midnight – The Insider special edition ends
Ch. 5: April 2014
12:00 Midnight – Advertising films of Ren and Kyoko;
early morning, around 6:00 AM - fangirls won a contest from LME Pop Issue magazine
Ch. 6: week of 26 May 2014 (last week of May) – Kuu arrived in Japan.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 –
Morning: couple's last final discussions with Lory & Kuu
Afternoon: Spa visit with Kane & Yashiro
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 – Kyoko's full day rest; helped with Darumaya's business
Ch. 7: Thursday, June 12, 2014 – Ren & Kyoko's grand wedding on a live coverage has finally started. A few famous stars were invited as guest on-field reporters.
Ch. 8: Thursday, June 12, 2014 – entire bridal entourage prepared to leave from The Villa; Kanae & Kyoko vowed to finally start calling 'older sister' or Oneesan in Japanese, to one another from now on; Instead of just 'Kyoko-chan', Yashiro, due to seeing himself constantly as Ren's 'elder brother', also started seeing Kyoko as his Neechan already from now on.
Disclaimer: No Copyright Infringement Intended. Just guilty of writing a fanfic. I didn't own La Corda d'Oro, NANA, etc. But I'm just happy all its main characters agreed that I can borrow them to make a wonderful guest appearance.^^ I wish I owned Skip Beat or co-wrote that manga with sensei, lol! In my dreams. But I own my Encore. :D
A few reminders for this chapter only:
[italics inside bold brackets] – scenes on TV point of view, not the actual filming.
Just italics – lines and thoughts of character/s being emphasized.
Asterisk* - highlighted terms used in the story & given at the footnote.
Here's chapter nine. Enjoy Encore. ^^
ACT NINE
"I DO."
"MY DEAR LORD... KANAE-CHAN... IS THIS REALLY KYOKO-CHAAAN?"
Okami just couldn't help herself but exclaimed in wild surprise as she brought her hands on her now beet red cheeks. Tears of happiness never failed from cascading gently down her face, as she stared breathlessly and speechless at the most heavenly exquisite bride she had ever seen in her life, carefully stepping down on the flight of marble winder steps while holding on to Kanae's hand.
Behind the transparent, silk tulle cathedral-dropped veil, Kyoko smiled back happily at Okami, Taishou and Kuu at the main hall. As she reached the floor, she walked towards them together with Kanae beside her.
"Kyoko-chan... You look so beautiful!" said Okami as she held her hands close to her. Her eyes still never broke from admiring tearfully. "My... Such a godess you are my dear... with a wonderful bouquet too! Neh, anata?"
Taishou smirked and nodded happily at his wife next to him, while he too stared at Kyoko walking towards them.
"Mhm... Indeed she is, just as always," replied Taishou warmly.
"See? I told you everything's alright, little Kuon!" called out Kuu from behind them. It didn't matter now how his height had towered over the Darumaya couple in front of him. Taishou-san was tall of course, but Kuu was just amazingly taller than him.
"Your wife Julie's wedding gown suits Kyoko-chan indeed, Kuu-kun!" exclaimed Okami. Now her stare moved from Kyoko's attractive face, down to her sparkling, glamorous gown as Kyoko and Kanae entered the archway leading towards the group. "So perfect on her!"
"It is, right?" answered Kuu humbly as he nodded in agreement together with Taishou. While watching Kyoko and Kanae coming towards them, Kuu spoke.
"I'm so glad Okami-san, that Julie's gown has finally been passed on to the perfect woman of my son," said Kuu. "Thank you..."
"I agree with you," said Taishou in his low voice. "It looks like this gown had been made especially for Kyoko... No one would have thought it would be her who would wear that in the future... She is the perfect bride for Julie's perfect wedding gown..."
Kuu looked at Taishou with a big smile on his face.
"We may not have a child of our own," Taishou said as he continued, never taking his eyes off his daughter. "But even so, Kyoko came to us... She is our big blessing, and we're happy to treat her as our own. I bet she's also proud of having treated you too as her Otousan, Kuu-kun?"
Kuu flashed his genuine smile, the perfect replica of Ren's, and nodded at Taishou.
"Yeah... she is, Taishou-san," replied Kuu warmly. Taishou finally looked up at him smirked as he began to speak.
"Then let me tell you this, as Kyoko-chan's proud father too... Your son is the only perfect groom for our only beloved, perfect daughter."
Amazed to hear such words, Kuu asked, "You mean it... Taishou-san?"
"Being older than you for five years, Okami and I have been married for such a long time now, Kuu-kun," responded Taishou. "For many years, we have seen so many different and negative treatments of men that they gave to women around these days. How I even wish it would be back to how they once were back then... But it was only with your son, Kuon... that we have finally seen such a worthy and true gentleman in him that Okami and I saw from men during our time. Kyoko needs that gentleman... the rarest of all."
Still looking up at Kuu, Taishou added with a wink and smiled as he added.
"No other man is more suitable to Kyoko than your son, Kuon."
"I'm so proud to hear that, Taishou-san. Thank you!" said Kuu, beaming on all ears as he gave Taishou his trademark thumbs up.
"Then let me say that I'm very proud too it was our Kyoko whom Kuon had found! Great job eh!"
"Ah! Yes indeed!"
Laughing triumphantly with Kuu, Taishou gave him his thumbs up in return. It was only this moment, for the very first time in her life, that Kyoko finally saw her Taishou-Otousan drew such a happy smile and a hearty laugh with her best father in the world. Such a sight brought Kyoko to smile proudly.
"My... You looked so gorgeous too, Kanae dear!" exclaimed Okami as she looked at the maid of honor stood in front of her. "The gown is also perfect on you!"
"I do? Thank you so much, Okami-san!" replied Kanae as she bowed. "You also look very wonderful today."
"Taishou-Otousan? Okami-Okasan?" Kyoko exclaimed. Her eyes grew wide in surprise as she finally stood in front of the group.
"What?" asked Taishou on his stern voice again. Okami just held her mouth with her hand as she laughed.
"Y–your clothes... both of you–"
"–What about it?"
Chibi Kyoko held her surprise as she stood silent for a moment, staring at Taishou and Okami.
"W–well..." muttered chibi Kyoko shyly as she held up her bouquet to cover half her blushed face behind the veil. "I–it's just... just that..."
"What? Speak."
Kyoko couldn't held on any longer. She was very delighted to see them of course. Kuu laughed together with Kanae and Okami as Kyoko suddenly hugged Taishou close to her with all her might.
"Both of you looked so wonderful Taishou-Otousan! I never knew you looked so handsome in that clothes!"
"O– oi! Kyoko!" shouted Taishou as Kyoko crumpled into him. "God what a compliment!" Taishou said to himself in thought. Now color started to fill Taishou's entire face.
The stern chef looked different from the usual white uniform and hat that he wore everyday at the restaurant. This time however, just like other famous guests who attended the wedding, Taishou looked so formal and gentleman in his silk kimono and hakama. Okami-san, on the other hand, looked so elegant in her silk Kurotomesode*. The embroidery designs glistened as Okami moved. Her usual loose, pontailed hair was now held up neatly in a sleek bun and light makeup. No doubt Kyoko became surprised like this upon seeing the couple dressed so formal in their attire.
At least Taishou was glad he had found his voice again.
"M– mah neh... Arigatou my child," replied Taishou. He wanted to tell Kyoko the truth. Just as as he was about to say something, it was Okami-san who brought it up to Kyoko.
"Giorgio Armani made that kimono and hakami on him, Kyoko dear," said Okami as she giggled happily. "It suits him well, right?"
Kyoko broke from her hug a bit and looked at Okami, beaming on all ears.
"Really? He did?" asked Kyoko.
Okami, Kanae and Kuu nodded. "Yes, Kyoko dear, he designed that attire on your Taishou," replied Okami. "And this kimono of mine was designed by Christian Dior himself. I'm just so happy they made this especially for us..."
"We don't want to tell you, but I guess there's no need for keeping secrets from you on your wedding your day, ain't it?" added Kuu.
"Hehehe... Sorry, we didn't tell you, Oneechan," said Kanae.
No one, not even Kanae, Yashiro, Kuu, Lory, Jelly and Ren, had ever told Kyoko about this, but both Taishou and Okami-san were fitted secretly by Christian Dior and Giorgio Armani respectively at Lory's mansion in Tokyo during their previous visits in Japan. The designers felt that the respected couple deserved this treatment as this was also the designers' personal gift for them being Kyoko's foster parents. So they chose to create the traditional wedding attire for the couple.
Although she had found it out just now, Kyoko never cared about that at all. Kyoko shook her head while smiling.
"Mmm... No, that's alright," said Kyoko. "I'm happy they gave you this attire personally. There's nothing for me to get sad about not being told about that secret. What matters is... You all look so wonderful to me right now!"
Overjoyed, Kyoko hugged Taishou again really tight. Kuu and Okami chuckled.
"You really came!" cried Kyoko in Taishou's arms. "Thank you for coming here for me, Taishou-Otousan! Okami-Okasan!"
Taishou patted Kyoko's back as Okami came towards them and gave the two a group hug happily. Kuu and Kanae watched on with a smile.
"You are the most beautiful bride, my child," said Taishou. "As always, I am very proud of you!"
Okame broke from the hug and held her hand up as she began to speak.
"Now... We'd better get going, Anata, Kyoko-chan... " said Okami. "We don't want to everybody at the basilica wait for us."
"Ah – mm!" replied Kyoko as she straightened up slightly. Okami then looked up at Kuu. "I do hope we haven't kept all the guests waiting. Are we still early as planned, Kuu-kun?"
Kuu nodded politely as he glanced at his watch. "Mhm! We still are, Okami-san," he replied. He then gestured for everybody. "We still have more time... We're going to ride together with Kyoko."
"Alright then, let's go," said Okami as she walked together with Taishou. She held his arm as they walked in Kuu's wake. Meanwhile, Kanae held Kyoko's hand and began to follow them down the hall.
Outside the Villa mansion, a big, shining white and gold custom horse-drawn State Landau Glass Coach* waited for them at the foot of the front steps. The spacious glass coach, with its plush red velvet and satin interior and crystal glass windows, was exclusively built for the highly extravagant President Lory's personal use. On the exterior was white with gold gilt decorations and featured impressive painted panels by artist Giovanni Capriani himself. The rich gilded sculpture included cherubs on the roof and four tritons on each corner. The body of the exquisite coach was slung by braces covered with Morocco leather and decorated with gold gilt buckles. The coach will be pulled by by a team of eight horses postillion-riden in pairs wearing the Red Morocco harness, with the rear horses controlled by a coachman. As one of his "simple"gifts, Lory had the couple use this custom State Landau Glass coach for their wedding today.
Coachman Sebastian, his postillion*, and a team of cavalriesbowed low together on the sides of the aisle they had created beside the coach as the bridal party came down on the flight of steps towards them. All of a sudden, the eight white horses 'hoofed' and 'neighed' together.
"Ah! It seemed these horses noticed the beauty of our bride too eh!" laughed Kuu. He patted one of the horses as he talked to them.
"Hahaha! Yeah... She's damn gorgeous, right?" whispered Kuu to one of the horses. "That's some fine taste you have there boys. Good job, good job! Haha!"
The postillion then went and climbed swiftly up at the first horse on the front left, while the cavalries rode on their black horses that positioned behind the carriage. It was part of Lory and Kuu's plan that the cavalries will also be watching for the bride's safety while following at the rear.
Sebastian opened the doors of the coach politely. Kuu gestured for Okami and Taishou to climb in first.
"Alright... you two hop in ahead, Taishou-san, Okami-san," said Kuu. Okami bowed gratefully.
"Ah... Arigatou, Kuu-kun," thanked Okami. Taishou got inside, then Okami. Kuu followed right in. All three of them sat on the passenger seat on the opposite side.
"Give me your bouqet and Kyoko's, Kanae-chan," offered Kuu as he held out his hand.
"Thank you so much, Mister Kuu," replied Kanae while she handed her and Kyoko's bouquet. Kuu held them carefully with both hands upon receiving them.
Standing at the back, Kanae held Kyoko's train carefully with both hands as she watched Kyoko climbed slowly inside the carriage, with Kuu helping her from the inside. Kanae then settled the train smoothly on the floor inside the coach. From the wardrobe to the front entrance, the handling of the wedding gown had been executed to perfection by Kanae that not even a single crease and crumple can be seen formed on the gown.
"Thank you so much, Onee-san!" said Kyoko gratefully as she smiled at Kanae.
"You're welcome, Onee-san," replied Kanae.
"I'm so amazed. You're really good on this task, Kanae-chan," said Kuu while watching her. He had noticed that the gown was still as superbly neat as new. "No crumples at all lady, wow."
"Yeah... I agree with you, Kuu-kun," said Okami, nodded in agreement. "Kanae- chan is perfectly suitable as Kyoko-chan's maid of honor."
Taishou couldn't agree more on that and he too nodded silently.
"Mhm," said Taishou.
"Umm... I just wanted to make sure Kyoko looks good on her wedding today," replied Kanae humbly as she sat beside Kyoko. She held Kyoko's hand, smiled back at them as she continued.
"This is something I can do for my fellow older sister– Thank you!"
Kuu then looked at the window. "Now then... We're good to go, Sebastian," notified Kuu.
Sebastian nodded in reply and bowed.
"Yes, Mister Kuu," he said.
Sebastian closed to the door politely and climbed at the front of the coach. In a swift move, the horses pulled the carriage smoothly on the road. Just like the entourage who left ahead, when the carriage had finally passed outside the tall entrance gates, the final batch of police in their motorcycles and cars formed immediately on the front and on each sides of the carriage and cavalries.
Together, the bridal team drove along the road towards the basilica.
# # # ~~~ # # #
Meanwhile, inside the L.M.E Productions Kyoto station studio at that very same moment, while the bridal team travelled along the way towards the basilica, The Insider Special hosts Roxas Rika, Takahashi Daisuke and Miyamoto Kris watched intently at one of the virtual monitors of the stage wall on the far right side. Stars Kamenashi Kazuya and Oguri Shun, while they relaxed inside Lory's spacious and big helicopter flying on the sky, reported the details to the hosts.
On the glass monitor wall back at the studio's control room, was the final output of the Insider live coverage. The screen showed the stars talking on one side of the divided panel graphics, while at the opposite side was the hosts from the studio, listening attentively to the stars. When the stars showed a specific scene, their faces faded out from their side to reveal the reported image. With that, only their voices can be heard speaking on the background. The hosts side of the panel will remain just the same.
To avoid confusion, label graphics flashed right on each panel. On the left side was the studio's white cursive name with gold and silver glitters moving in its background flashed on the bottom.
L. M. E Studio
On the opposite side was the stars' name together with their location. For this was Kazuya and Shun's name, also complete with sparkling silver and gold glitters in its background.
Kamenashi Kazuya & Oguri Shun
Live Sky Team
["That's right Rika-san, the bride and her family entourage members Mister Hizuri Kuu, the Darumaya couple Taishou and Okami, and her maid of honor Kotonami Kanae were now on their way towards the basilica!" announced Kazuya on the screen while adjusting the microphone of his headphone closer to him. The scene moved across from him and Oguri Shun to zoom at the road down below, where the carriage together with the cavalries riding on their horses on its rear rode along the way. A team of police joined them on each sides, blaring their siren lights. The scene zoomed closer to reveal fans waving happily with their flaglets, banners and posters in the air while they stood screaming on top of their lungs on each sides of the road.
"Wow– will you look at all those people!" exclaimed Rika on the opposite side of the panel graphics.
"Ah– yes it is. There are just so many of them there!" added Kris.
"You know, that just reminds me of Hizuri Kuu's name funeral at Tokyo, hahaha!" said Daisuke. "The number who attended back then was just like that, even more..."
"Yeah... As you can see down there guys, hundreds of fans lined up along the sides of the road," said Kazuya voice on the background. "There's never been that many a while ago! Right, Shun-san?"
"Yeah," replied Shun on the background as the scene now zoomed further on the bridal team riding down the road. "More and more people just kept on coming guys! Oh, look right there–! The bridal convoy has just turned now on the corner of Miyazu Street! Wooooooooo! Yes!"
"The show's about to start!" added Kazuya happily. True, right at that moment, the carriage was shown on the screen turned right down the road that leads to Miyazu Basilica far ahead. "Finally, we can go down nooooow!"
On their side, the hosts clapped their hands together with the excited crews now whistling and cheering on the background of the screen.
"Alright gents, thank you so much!" thanked Daisuke. "We'll get back to you later after the wedding!"
"OKAY!" answered Shun and Kazuya together. They waved happily as their side zoomed out to reveal the entire part of the hosts on the studio. Kris, Rika and Daisuke clapped their hands with glee.
"Aaaaah! Mooo!" cheered Rika while Kris now placed her hands together in excitement as she squealed.
Daisuke immediately said, "Let's hurry to the voice actors at the basilica right now– Morita-san! Konishi-san! Marina-san!"
"Yeah! Daisuke-san!" replied Konishi, Morita and Marina in unison on their side of the screen. Behind them were fans screaming wildy and waving their banners, flaglets and posters up above them in the air. On the background was a series of orchestral music coming from the basilica. Harmonious instrumental piece of "Romance for String Orchestra Op. 11" by Gerald Finzi echoed through the air.
The star reporters' names appeared right away on the bottom right side of the panel. Sparkling silver and gold glitters moved in its background.
Masakazu Morita, Katsuyuki Konishi & Inoue Marina
Voice Actors ~ Live Miyazu Basilica
"How are things going there right now?" asked Daisuke on the other side of the screen.
"Well, you've seen the number of these fans here a while ago, right?" answered Morita on the right side of the screen.
Daisuke, Rika and Kris nodded together. "Yes!"
"–Just take a look at these guys right now!" said Konishi holding his arm up to his side as the scene on their side now zoomed outwards to show the wild fans everywhere. Fans filled every space on each sides of the road from the basilica down to the corner of Miyazu road far ahead.
The hosts on the other side of the panel on the screen heaved sighs of amazement.
"What about the guests there, minasan?" asked Daisuke quickly.
The scene on the stars' side showed back the voice actors. This time it was Marina who replied brightly right away.
"Everyone had finally got inside, Daisuke-san!" replied Marina amidst the loud cheers coming from the fans behind them. To hear the hosts clearer, Marina, Morita and Konishi touched their communicator on their ears while holding their microphones. Marina continued, "They were now waiting for the ceremony to start–"
"–That's Kamenashi Kazuya-san and Oguri Shun-san right there, guys! Hahaha!" called out Morita as he pointed at the only two stars walking down the red carpet together with their ushers. Fans greeted loudly at them while waving their flaglets. Mediamen flashed their cameras brightly as the two stars walked past them. "Serenade for Strings in E Minor" by Edward Elgar played by the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra at the basilica echoed throughout the entire surroundings. The moment the gentlemen saw the voice actors, they waved at them. Just then, Kazuya cupped his hands on his mouth and called out.
"You'd better get in now!" mouthed Kazuya from afar.
"Only you guys are out there!" added Shun. "Hurry up!"
Daisuke, Kris and Rika were shown on the other side of the panel laughing right away and clapped happily.
"Ahahaha!"
Morita and Konishi did the same thing and called back at the two stars who stood at the red carpet, waiting for them.
"Yeah, just get in! We'll join you afterwards!" shouted Morita.
"We're almost done!" said Konishi.
"Only a minute and we'll be right there, guys!" added Marina.
The two actors took the voice actors' gesture far from them and now began to walk inside the basilica. While the hosts were shown laughing at the other side of the panel on the screen, the stars' side scene zoomed further on the red carpet– from the fans lined on a side of the road across the basilica, to the stern bodyguards watching in front of them and finally to the only ones outside the entrance, were none other than Ren and the rest of the bridal entourage.
Rika had settled herself this time and called out to her companions the moment they saw the entourage from the other side of the panel on the screen.
"Oh– guys, the groom and the entourage," said Rika as the scene on the other side of the panel zoomed further. "They're still waiting... In a few moments everyone, the ceremony will finally start."
"Marina-san!" called out Daisuke on the other side of the screen.
"Yes, Daisuke-san!" said Marina on the stars' side.
"Could you tell us EXACTLY how many minutes more before the wedding will start?" asked Daisuke.
"The usher told us a while ago– only ten minutes left, Daisuke-san!" answered Marina brightly.
The hosts cheered on the other side of the screen, together with the crews clapping and whistling with them on the background.
"Aww, look at Takarada Maria-chan!" exclaimed Kris on their side as she pointed. On the other side of the screen showed the scene zoomed closer at Maria conversing cheerfully with Hio, Renjou and Shusei. She was holding her beautiful white satin basket adorned with red silk weaved roses and white crystal on the center of each flower. Her gown and little tiara sparkled under the bright sunlight.
"Yeah, she's such a princess on her gown," said Daisuke on the other side of the screen.
The ribbons of the basket and Maria's hair and little veil swayed gracefully to the nonexistent breeze as Kris continued. "The flower girl looks so cute! Her tiara has a little veil too. Aaaaww! I love her!"
While hosts watched, the scene moved across the flower girl to the bridesmaids and groomsmen talking with each other. Sho was just shown laughing while Momose said something. It seemed that Chiori responded to her that brought Kijima, Momose and Sho laughing with her.
"Oooooh – now that's the beauties right there with their partners," announced Daisuke on the other side of the screen. An usher and usherette walked towards them and said something. "That's Fuwa Sho, Ichinose Kijima, Momose, and Amamiya Chiori... really great talents there."
"The directors–Ogata, Haruki and Kurosaki," said Rika.
The next scene on the other side moved further from the directors and their partners. This time the scene stopped at Ren and zoomed closer towards him to show his best man talking to him.
"As always, Hizuri-san looked so gorgeous," said Kris on the other side of the screen. "That Armani suit from the designer is so perfect on him... Oh, his best man too! Aww... Kyoko-chan is such a very lucky bride, neh!"
"Mhm... he'll make the bride proud of having him for her husband indeed," replied Rika as Daisuke nodded in agreement with her.
Just then, on the other side of the screen, the scene zoomed closer to show an usher and usherette walked together outside the basilica. They had notified something important to every member, because right after that Ren and the rest of the entourage went to their respecitive positions and neatly formed a line as the usher and usherette walked back inside the basilica.
"The wedding is going to start in a few moments now, minnasan!" said Morita's voice in the background. Fans heard that of course, because they immediately went wild and screamed loudly. "Somebody told us here right now. It's time to get in!"
The hosts on the other side were cheering loudly this time and clapped wildly as bells of the basilica started to rung.
"Alright, Konishi-san! Marina-san and Morita-san! See you guys later after the wedding!" said Kris happily while Daisuke and Rika clapped.
"Yes! See you guys later!" replied Konishi's voice in the background on the opposite side of the screen. The scene on there showed Yashiro cleared his throat and adjusted his tux coat as he stood straight. Then the scene moved to the voice actors beside the red carpet, who were seen waving their hands as they began to walk.
"Bye guys!" said Morita, Konishi and Marina together.]
# # # ~~~ # # #
Meanwhile inside the basilica, guests chatted in low voices as they waited patiently on their seats. Just as the bells of the basilica started to rung, everyone had quited down and settled silently. It seemed that through the ushers' and usherettes' communicator on their ears, the attendants were informed that the bride was now on her way towards the cathedral.
The commentator, one of the basilica's priests, stepped up at the lectern. He then looked a few afar from him. Standing quietly behind the altar. Rev. Francis Xavier was staring at him. Rev. Xavier nodded, as a signal for the priest to start the ceremony. The priest then nodded in return and looked back at all the guests. He cleared his throat quietly, neared towards the microphone and started.
"Good afternoon, brothers and sisters of Christ," greeted the priest as he began. His low voice echoed throughout the entire basilica as he spoke. "When we reach life's greatest crossroads, the choice of the decision we make must be done with much faith and love. My dear brothers and sisters, Kuon and Kyoko have approached these crossroads already with a lot of faith and a deeply nurtured friendship and love..."
Camera operators on their designated positions inside the basilica concentrated silently on their camera pedestals while they squinted at the lens on their cameras. One after another, photographers who were also on their assigned positions flashed their cameras.
Outside, fans stood silently as they looked up intently to a huge flat screen at the far left side of the basilica. The priest was shown on the screen with his arms held wide. His voice echoed throughout the roads from large speakers being placed at certain points outside the basilica.
"Let us then offer our thanks to God for having led them together in this love. Let us pray that He may bless and consecrate their commitment to each other, and that Kuon and Kyoko may freely and lovingly take upon them the task the Lord has entrusted to them... to live for each other in love and their future children, their family, their relatives and friends on their road through life to God. Let this day be memorable for all of us for the Lord have given us the blessing in winessing this special sacrament."
As the priest walked towards the altar to join Rev. Francis Xavier, the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Ken-Ichiro Kobayashi, began to play the first processional hymn, "Prelude on Rhosymedre" by Ralph Vaughan Williams. Kyoto Soulful Voices have joined harmoniously with the orchestra on the verse part of the piece.
The principal sponsors of the bridal entourage, directors Ogata, Haruki and Kurosaki together with their famous partners marched on the aisle made of red carpet inside the basilica. The moment they had reached halfway at the center of the aisle, the veil, cord and candle sponsors led by Takenori Sawara followed slowly in tempo with the music.
The next batch that followed when the aisle has cleared was the bridesmaid Amamiya Chiori together with groomsman Fuwa Sho. The second processional hymn, "Touch Her Soft Lips and Part" from Henry V Suite by William Walton was played by the orchestra and the Kyoto Soulful Voices as they marched on the aisle.
"Let's give them a wonderful smile, Momose-san," whispered Kijima as he offered his arm for Momose to hold. Fuwa Sho and Amamiya Chiori had walked on the aisle far ahead of them. "Now let's go, my princess... Shall we?"
Momose chuckled with him as she nodded in reply. "Hehehe... alright then, let's go."
On the other hand, actresses and singers alike whispered to their friends beside them while they stared enviously at the first pair walking together on the aisle.
"Oh my... That's Fuwa Sho and Amamiya Chiori, right?" asked one of them.
"Yeah... they're one great pair huh," replied a friend beside her. "Never thought they would look so awesome together..."
Hio, Renjou and Shusei followed slowly as the bridesmaids and their partners reached halfway on the center of the aisle. Bright light that came from the cameras flashed one way after another while the boys marched. Hio never broke his usual "cool little guy" stare as he carried a red fluffy satin pillow in a shape of a heart edged in golden lace that nestled the shining gold wedding rings.
When the red carpet aisle was now cleared for a few moments, this time, the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra began to play, "March from The Birds" by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry. Yashiro then marched gracefully inside the basilica. A couple of attractive guests in every industry of show business never broke their sensual stare to the only good-looking and number one manager in Japan.
"Now that I've seen him up close... I never realized he looked so handsome!" whispered an actress to her friend.
"I heard he's the only one who can hold up every single one of Ren-san's fans," one added. The pretty girl beside her stared wide-eyed in surprise.
"Really? He's that cold to them?"
"It's only for his client to arrive at his appointments on time..."
"Wow... so that's why Kuon-san has never been late."
"Mhm... because of that."
"God, I love him now!"
Yashiro climbed up the first front steps and stood. When the music progressed louder, this time Ren breathed deep and began to march smoothly down the aisle. The groom's natural walk on the aisle had caught several eyes everywhere. Ren's everyday walk was usually described by well-known critics as almost like the runway walk. However, on this wedding day, Ren outshined every male who also celebrated their special occasion with their partners. On the red carpet aisle, he almost seemed like he walked on a bed of gas fluid– a floor of neither air nor water. Lina's favorite model never failed to catch glimpses on all sides as he flashed his genuine smile at everyone. Almost every women present were immediately swooned; they would either sighed in admiration, blushed in full beet red, or smile completely with quivering eyes full of sparkles and tears.
Aiko, Chiyo, Kaori and Ayumi, who were on the front row seats next to the rows of shining principal sponsor chairs, held their little squeals of excitement as Ren walked.
"Kuon-san is soooo handsome! I love him!" exclaimed Ayumi, whose face was completely flushed with adoration to her one and only favorite actor of all time. "He's so perfect in all clothes! Everything just matches him!"
"Ah...Yes he is. Kuon-san looked so great in Armani's suit!" cheered Aiko. "There's such a big difference to see that for real than watching it on TV!"
Chiyo never stopped clicking her camera happily while Kaori perfectly held her HD handycam up with her hand. For the first time since using the video camera for years, Kaori's hand never shook just even one second.
"We'll definitely watch this together right away when we get home!" said Kaori as she stared intently at her video camera's screen.
Yashiro smiled back at him when Ren came up near him on the front steps. The air was now full of anticipation, and the groom anxiously awaited his first glimpse of his bride in her wedding dress.
"Glorious moment of the day, Otouto," whispered Yashiro in a low voice only the tall, handsome man could hear.
"Mhm..." replied Ren softly as he moved his head a bit to the side while looking far ahead at the basilica's door. "It really is, Yashiro-san."
"One last thing... It's only naturally normal to be nervous, so just let it out..." added Yashiro-san.
Ren went surprised, as it's only Yashiro apart from Kyoko who could see right through Ren's unbelievably handsome mask. The two men chuckled softly as Yashiro continued, "At least she's not there yet, so don't hold it in, Otouto... Breathe... Inhale–"
Ren took a long, deep breath.
"–Exhale..."
Now that didn't helped more, because more nerves never stopped themeselves from tingling in every part of Ren's body. He could even hear his own heart thumping wildly. Dear Lord, let it ease a bit!
The orchestra and choir stopped at the last piece. This time, as if on cue, fans screamed at the top of their lungs outside the basilica. In complete silence, Rev. Francis Xavier and his priests in attendance, Ren, Yashiro, the bridesmaids– Momose and Chiori and groomsmen– Kijima and Sho, the bearers– Renjou, Shusei and Hio and principal sponsors– Sawara Takenori, including directors Ogata, Haruki and Kurosaki looked far ahead. Also famous guests, photographers and cameramen in every angle glanced toward the entrance as the earsplitting screams thundered so loud it even echoed throughout the entire place.
Everyone heard the booming chants clearly, as if the shrill cries were inside the basilica itself.
"KYOKOO! KYOKOO! KYOKO! KYAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!
"–At long last... The bride has finally arrived," muttered Yashiro as he smiled together with Ren.
The moment Lory's tall figure stood at the entrance, smiling broadly at everyone, the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and Kyoto Soulful voices began to play a medley of "I Was Glad" by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry and "Beautiful In My Eyes" by Elton John.
Meanwhile, outside the basilica, fans waved their flaglets, posters, banners and streamers up in the air as they roared happily. Taishou and Okami stood further ahead on the red carpet, as they waited while Kuu held out his hand beside the coach. Like a rare, exquisite butterfly coming out from the chrysalis, Kyoko alighted from the coach amidst the growing deafening cheers from fans everywhere. Photographers also screamed her name with them as they flashed their cameras brightly. Together, the fans and media chanted.
"KYOKOO! KYOKOO! KYOKOO!"
Slowly, Kyoko walked on the red carpet as she held Kuu's hand. She then stopped further ahead outside the entrance, looked back, and smiled happily at Kanae who alighted from the coach. She was holding the ends of her long train and veil carefully. While Kanae smoothly settled her train and veil on the red carpet properly, Kyoko looked at all her group of fans everywhere and waved her slender hand up in the air in greeting while holding the precious bouquet with the other hand. The fans grew wilder and louder as they all greeted her back.
"KYOKO! KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!"
Amidst the loud cheers, Kanae then walked on the red carpet towards Kuu and bowed politely.
"Thank you for holding the bouquet for me, Mister Kuu," said Kanae. Kuu chuckled.
"Hahaha... You're too kind. Nah, that's alright, Kanae-chan. You're welcome," replied Kuu brightly as he handed the bouquet to the maid of honor.
Kanae took one last look at her beloved sister, and for the second time, she held Kyoko again close to her in a warm, tight hug.
"You'll do good... neh, Onee-san," whispered Kanae in Kyoko's arms. "I love you!"
"Mm! I will, Onee-san," replied Kyoko happily behind the veil. She then smiled back at her. "I love you too, my beloved Oneesan!"
Kanae broke from the hug and positioned herself meters ahead of Kuu at the entrance. Kuu looked back at her and winked as he gave a final thumbs up sign to his beloved daughter.
Kyoko replied in a thumbs up sign in return. Maria came towards her and also gave the bride a tight hug.
"You're so beautiful right now, Onee-sama!" chirped Maria as she looked up at her. "As beautiful as Queen Rosa-sama! So smile to your one and only groom when you walk... To Kuon-sama! Okay?"
Kyoko chuckled at her flower girl. "Hehehe... I will, Maria-chan," she replied.
"I know we're about to start and you're on a veil right now, but... Can I give you a kiss, Onee-sama?"
"Hehe! Sure dear, you will!"
Kyoko bent low a bit. Beaming brightly on all ears, Maria tiptoed and gave her a warm kiss on the cheek. The flower girl then positiond herself a few meters behind Kuu.
"I love you, Onee-sama!" called out Maria as she waved her hand. Kyoko waved her hand back.
"I love you too, Maria-chan!" replied Kyoko.
Taihou and Okami smiled at Kyoko as they stood beside her. While the orchestra and choir played the processional medley, Lory started to march on the aisle. Kuu followed him a few moments later.
Inside the basilica, Kuu walked halfway on the aisle. He then winked at his son when he turned to stand near his seat across the front row, just next to Lory.
Maria-chan started to walk, sprinkling on the aisle flower petals of the same kinds from Kyoko's bouquet while smiling happily. The little flower girl never failed to catch everyone's glimpses as photographers flashed their cameras brightly at the little doll.
When the aisle had cleared again, it was Kanae who now marched on the flowery aisle, smiling at everyone amidst the bright flickering lights from cameras while holding her bouquet. The moment her eyes met Ren's best man from afar, Kanae flashed the most seductive smile of all. She never cared how many sighs and groans of envy came from every sides.
Ren took this moment of surprise as he started a counterattack. He then moved his head a bit to the side as he began to speak in a low cool voice.
"Yashiro-san, I know it's naturally normal to be nervous... But never show that to this woman right here," whispered Ren. Yashiro just kept silent. Ren chuckled as Yashiro cleared his throat.
"Mhmm... She returned the call last night, am I right?" teased Ren. He looked up to see his best man pushed his spectacles back up on his nose. Being the no. 1 actor of Japan with the most number of experiences in acting, he perfectly saw through Yashiro's genuine face holding the color that was about to come out any minute now. Ren took that silence and expression as a big "YES."
Kanae never broke the romantic stare at Yashiro until she walked towards the seat on the opposite side of the sponsors.
At a loss for words for the very first time of his life, Ren stared straight ahead and held his breath. Even all the guests stared in silence, their eyes full of adoration.
Standing tall at the entrance, was his bride accompanied by the Darumaya couple. Together, they slowly entered the basilica.
Elton John began to hit the first keys of the intro. This time the orchestral guests, The Seiso Academy, played together with him. Hino Kahoko started her part with her violin. Tsukimori Len dueted with her, also with his violin. Shimizu Keichi followed with his cello, Yunoki Azuma with his flute, Hihara Kazuki with his trumpet, and Tsuchiura Ryotaro on the other piano opposite Elton.
While Elton John dueted the verse with Seiso Academy while the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra played in the background, Kyoko and the Darumaya couple walked on the aisle. During the procession, the first verse was sung.
You're my peace of mind
In this crazy world
The cameramen focused their views on the bride. Behind the veil, Kyoko smiled to every onlooker on the seats, with the blinding flashing of lights from the photographers' cameras. Outside, fans tearfully watched Kyoko and the Darumaya couple on the huge flat screen.
You're everything I've tried to find
Your love is a pearl
"My God– she's so beautiful," mouthed the actress who played Kyoko's gang member in Box R.
"Is that really her?" asked Murasame curiously as he stared. He spoke in a low voice that almost became into a hiss. "That's Kyoko-san isn't it?"
His friend beside him nodded as he replied softly, "Yeah... I was really surprised, all the time..."
"She was the one who played Mio in Dark Moon," whispered actress Megumi, the one who played Ren's older sister in Dark Moon.
"She was also the one who acted as Ren's little sister– Setsuka Heel!" added her friend who was also a famous actress.
"She was that rocker girl? Seriously?" hissed the actress.
"To top it all off, she was the one who acted BJ's girlfriend on this second movie that had just been released–"
"–What? She's that woman? I never realized that... Wow... "
"Yeah... This time, she never look anything like those characters. See her? That is her natural, true beauty now... She is such a goddess..."
You're my Mona Lisa
You're my rainbow skies
Ren never broke his stare at his only bride on the aisle. What better words can he described her right now? Her exquisite beauty just got no parallel. The more his eyes ventured on her beauty, the more Kyoko's loveliness shone bloomingly throughout the procession. All this time, he had been looking for a woman who would be with him. He has finally found that woman, and she was now walking on the aisle ready to be handed over to be with him for eternity.
And my only prayer is that you realize...
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
Halfway on the center of the aisle, Kyoko and the Darumaya couple stopped. Photographers never stopped clicking with their cameras, bright lights kept flashing on them while cameramen focused their zoom with their cameras. For one last moment, Taishou and Kyoko hugged each other. Okami tearfully watched on.
"It's time for you to go to him now, Kyoko my child," whispered Taishou.
"Mm!" replied Kyoko in his arms. She held the water that's about to cascade from her eyes. At least she successfully did with all her might.
"Don't you ever cry, this is your best moment..." said Taishou in their tight embrace. "It's not like this is the end of the world after all. Now go to him headon with a smile. Not tears. Promise me, alright?"
"I promise!"
"I'm happy you're our daughter. I love you, Kyoko my child," said Taishou with a smile.
"I love you too, Taishou-Otousan!"
Taishou broke apart and smiled back at Kyoko. Okami followed suit and held her tight.
"I'm so happy right now, Okami-Okasan," said Kyoko. Okami understood that wholeheartedly and she nodded in agreement.
"I can tell that, Kyoko dear," replied Okami. "I can tell... I'm so happy that you were with us. Your Taishou and I were so blessed to have you as our daughter."
"Me too, Okami-Okasan... Thank you!"
"I love you, Kyoko my dear," said Okami tearfully in Kyoko's arms.
"I love you too, Okami-Okasan!" said Kyoko, beaming brightly on all ears.
Okami then looked straight at her eyes. "Now go!"
Kyoko straightened up as she faced back on the aisle, took a deep breath, and then walked alone while holding her bouquet.
The world will turn, mmmm
And the seasons will change
And all the lessons we will learn
Will be beautiful and strange
Slowly, Kyoko walked gracefully in such elegance on the aisle. Every now and then she would looked at all the guests present in every side. They would waved at her, blew kisses at her on the air, and smiled while staring tearfully at the beautiful bride.
We'll have our fill of tears
Our share of sighs
My only prayer is that you realize...
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
In every slow step that Kyoko took, sparkling crystals looked as though they cascaded down her wedding gown. It seemed as if the gown's high quality and rare fabric was made of water. The long train and veil on the floor flowed smoothly behind her. How should Ren say it? It's like... Kyoko looked as though she was walking with the entire world beneath her feet. She was like a queen that marched on her cornation. So graceful... more graceful than a model on a runway. There was only one person who walked like that. Just the image reminded him so much of the most beautiful woman in the world... And how he so wished she was right here with him today... His dear mother, Juliella...
Ren breathed out a sigh with a genuine smile.
"This, he said to himself. Is my woman. The one I had ever loved more than anything in this world. My everything. My princess... My fairy goddess... My one and only wife..."
Kuu smirked while watching at his son. "He finally understood what Ten-san meant," Kuu thought proudly. He chuckled softly. "With your expression just now, you looked so much like me back then on my wedding day."
Kyoko looked straight ahead at the altar, and for the very first time, her eyes met Ren's.
She had never seen his groom suit for once, not even after they had gone back home from filming in Europe. Ten-san never allowed her to take a glimpse of it. Now that she had finally did, she let out a deep sigh behind the veil.
"He looked so perfectly handsome, just as always," thought Kyoko. For Kyoko, there was no attire that would not match him. She then smiled proudly while she lingered in Ren's loving gaze. "My Kuon..."
"I did a great job," muttered Armani as Dior patted his shoulder. He too looked at his friend and wink.
"You too, Chris... She owned it!" he said as he gave Dior a high five.
Ren and Kyoko stared lovingly at their gaze, deeply mesmerized by each other. For both of them, all the surroundings didn't matter at all. What mattered most was finally, they'll be together forever. Nothing in this world can ever break them apart. No one, nothing. Like a Queen that marched down the aisle on her coronation, Kyoko flashed the most genuine, exquisite smile at her groom behind the veil at last.
The Kyoto Soulful Voices sang together with Elton John on the chorus.
You will always be
Beautiful in my eyes
And the passing years will show
That you will always grow
Ever more beautiful in my eyes
"Boss, come on now. Get a grip on yourself for once!" said Kuu irritatingly as he patted the crumpling figure of Lory's back. He held a gold tissue box to him as he sighed deeply. The loud thumping of Kuu's hand across his back never affected the president at all. The sight of the bride walking on the aisle and the groom waiting at the altar overwhelmed Lory to full extent.
"Haa-ha-haaa! My two darlings! Mah darling babies!" cried out Lory. He could not control himself anymore. This time, he took refuge at Kuu's tall figure and held him close.
"Kuuu! hic-Kuuu!" cried Lory as he hiccupped. "They're finally together Kuu! Hic-Kuuuuuu! Mah darling baby in her wedding gown– Aaaaaahhh!"
"Geeez..." muttered Kuu with furrowed brows.
And there are lines upon my face
From a lifetime of smiles
When the time comes to embrace
For one long last while
We can laugh about
How time really flies
We won't say good-bye
Cause' true love never dies...
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
You will always be (You will always be)
Beautiful in my eyes (Beautiful in my eyes)
And the passing years will show
That you will always grow
Ever more beautiful in my eyes
As Kyoko neared the front steps, his belovd father Kuu was already standing ready at the end of the aisle far ahead. He smiled back at her as he winked, and he held out his arm. Kyoko gladly took it and together the father and daughter walked towards the altar.
The passing years will show
That you will always grow
Ever more beautiful in my eyes
Ren waited at the foot of the steps. When Kuu and Kyoko reached him, they went together at the altar where Rev. Francis Xavier III met them.
Everyone in attendance then sang to the hymn "Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer". After which, Rev. Francis Xavier began to give his welcome and introduction. Everyone remained standing in silence. At the same time outside, fans watched attentively at the huge flat screen.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the sight of God, and in the face of this congregation, to join together Kuon and Kyoko in Holy Matrimony; which is an honourable estate, instituted of God himself, signifying unto us the mystical union that is betwixt Christ and his Church; which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified with his presence, and first miracle that he wrought, in Cana of Galilee, and is commended in Holy Writ to be honourable among all men; and therefore is not by any to be enterprised, nor taken in hand, unadvisedly, lightly, or wantonly; but reverently, discreetly, soberly, and in the fear of God, duly considering the causes for which Matrimony was ordained."
"First, It was ordained for the increase of mankind according to the will of God, and that children might be brought up in the fear and nurture of the Lord, and to the praise of his holy name.
Secondly, It was ordained in order that the natural instincts and affections, implanted by God, should be hallowed and directed aright; that those who are called of God to this holy estate, should continue therein in pureness of living.
Thirdly, It was ordained for the mutual society, help, and comfort, that the one ought to have of the other, both in prosperity and adversity. Into which holy estate these two persons present come now to be joined.
Therefore, if any man can shew any just cause why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter for ever hold his peace."
Rev. Francis Xavier then looked at all the guests as he continued. "And you, dear brothers and sisters, may I ask you to help them with your prayers and accept them as a new couple in our Christian Community."
The Reverend then looked at the bride and groom.
"I require and charge you both, as ye will answer at the dreadful day of judgement when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed, that if either of you know any impediment, why ye may not be lawfully joined together in Matrimony, ye do now confess it. For be ye well assured, that so many as are coupled together otherwise than God's word doth allow are not joined together by God; neither is their Matrimony lawful... Kuon & Kyoko, may I now ask you to answer truthfully the following questions."
He looked at Kyoko and said. "Kyoko, did you come here today in your own free will to bind yourself forever in love and service of your husband?"
"Yes, Father," replied Kyoko in her soft voice behind the transparent, soft silk tulle veil. She smiled back at the priest.
"Kuon," said Rev. Francis as he now looked at the groom. "Did you come here today in your own free will to bind yourself forever in love and service of your wife?"
"Yes, Father," answered Ren.
"Kuon & Kyoko, are you ready as good Christians the children whom God will give you?"
Together, Ren and Kyoko answered in reply. "Yes, Father."
Rev. Francis Xavier then spoke to Kuon. "Hizuri Kuon, wilt thou have this woman to thy wedded wife, to live together according to God's law in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honour and keep her, in sickness and in health? and, forsaking all other, keep thee only unto her, so long
as ye both shall live?"
"I do," replied Ren. "With all my heart and soul of course," he said in thought.
"Mogami Kyoko," said Rev. Francis. "Wilt thou have this man to thy wedded husband, to live together according to God's law in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love him, comfort him, honour and keep him, in sickness and in health? and, forsaking all other, keep thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live?"
"Completely is a much better word for that too, Father Xavier!" chirped one of Kyoko's little angels who sat on Kyoko's shoulder.
"Yeah, she's right you know!" added one who relaxed at Kyoko's bouquet.
Kyoko looked at Ren and smiled behind the veil as she replied in a soft voice.
"I do," answered Kyoko.
Rev. Francis Xavier continued, "Who giveth this woman to be married to this man?"
"I do," responded Kuu who stood beside Kyoko's left. He then formally took Kyoko's right hand and Rev. Francis Xavier received it.
Taking Kyoko's right hand, Ren gave Kyoko such an affectionate look with his eyes. As he spoke after Rev. Francis, Kyoko smiled as she kept blinking warmly, fighting back tears of joy that wanted to stream from her eyes.
"I, Hizuri Kuon, take thee, Mogami Kyoko, to my wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse: for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health; to love and to cherish, till death us do part, according to God's holy law; and thereto I give thee my troth."
They loosened hands, and Kyoko, taking Ren by his right hand spoke after Rev. Francis. Behind the veil, she stared deep into his loving eyes and smiled back at him.
"I, Mogami Kyoko, take thee, Hizuri Kuon, to my wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse: for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health; to love and to cherish, till death us do part, according to God's holy law; and thereto I give thee my troth."
They loosened hands, and Rev. Francis Xavier asked for the couple's rings from the best man. Yashiro walked while holding the rings and gave them to the priest. Rev. Francis Xavier blessed the rings as he made a sign of the cross on them.
"Bless, O Lord, this ring, and grant that he who gives it and she who shall wear it may remain faithful to each other, and abide in thy peace and favour, and live together in love until their lives' end. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen."
Kuon then took the ring, and as he placed it upon the fourth finger of Kyoko's left hand Kuon said, "Kyoko, with this ring I thee wed; with my body I thee honour; and all my worldly goods with thee I share. Wear it as a symbol of our love and commitment: in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."
Rev. Francis Xavier spoke again as he blessed the groom's ring.
"Bless, O Lord, this ring, and grant that she who gives it and he who shall wear it may remain faithful to each other, and abide in thy peace and favour, and live together in love until their lives' end. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen."
Kyoko took the ring and spoke as she placed it upon the fourth finger of Kuon's left hand. She said, "Kuon, with this ring I thee wed; with my body I thee honour; and all my worldly goods with thee I share. Wear it as a symbol of our love and commitment: in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."
The couple knelt down on a custom pew in front of the priest. Rev. Francis Xavier said, "Let us pray. O Eternal God, Creator and Preserver of all mankind, giver of all spiritual grace, the author of everlasting life: Send thy blessing upon these thy servants, this man and this woman, whom we bless in thy name; that, living faithfully together, they may surely perform and keep the vow and covenant betwixt them made, whereof this ring given and received is a token and pledge; and may ever remain in perfect love and peace together, and live according to thy laws; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen."
Rev. Francis Xavier then joined Kyoko and Ren's hands and said, "Those whom God hath joined together, let no man put asunder."
The priest joined Rev. Francis Xavier and together they raised their hands and spoke.
"O God of our fathers, bless these thy servants, and sow the seed of eternal life in their hearts; that whatsoever in thy holy Word they shall profitably learn, they may in deed fulfil the same; that so, obeying thy will, and alway being in safety under thy protection, they may abide in thy love unto their lives' end; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen."
"O merciful Lord and heavenly Father, by whose gracious gift mankind is increased; bestow, we beseech thee, upon Kuon and Kyoko the heritage and gift of children; and grant that they may see their children christianly and virtuously brought up to thy praise and honour, through Jesus Christ ,our Lord. Amen."
"O God, who hast taught us that it should never be lawful to put asunder those whom thou by Matrimony hadst made one, and hast consecrated the state of Matrimony to such an excellent mystery, that in it is signified and represented the spiritual marriage and unity betwixt Christ and his Church: look mercifully upon these thy servants, that both this man Kuon may love his wife Kyoko, according to thy Word, (as Christ did love his spouse the Church, who gave himself for it, loving and cherishing it even as his own flesh), and also that this woman may be loving and amiable, and faithful to her husband, and in all quietness, sobriety, and peace, be a follower of holy and godly matrons. O Lord, bless them both, and grant them to inherit thy everlasting kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, pour upon you the riches of his grace, sanctify and bless you, that ye may please him both in body and soul, and live together in holy love unto your lives' end. Amen."
The couple rose up as the priest went back to his position near the altar. Rev. Francis Xavier remained standing in front of them, and this time the celebrant gave his final blessing.
"Let us pray. O almighty Lord, and everlasting God, vouchsafe, we beseech thee, to direct, sanctify, and govern both our hearts and bodies, in the ways of thy laws, and in the works of thy commandments; that through thy most mighty protection, both here and ever, we may be preserved in body and soul; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. The blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, be amongst you and remain with you always."
Everyone responded, "Amen."
Rev. Xavier then addressed the Congregation. His image was also then focused on the huge flat screen outside the basilica as he began to speak.
"For as much as Kuon and Kyoko have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth either to other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving of a ring, and by joining of hands; I pronounce that they be man and wife together. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."
He continued as he said, "God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Ghost, bless, preserve, and keep you; the Lord mercifully with his favour look upon you; and so fill you with all spiritual benediction and grace, that ye may so live together in this life, that in the world to come ye may have life everlasting. Amen."
Rev. Francis Xavier then smiled at the couple. He then announced.
"You may now seal the vows of eternal love you made with each other... Hizuri Kuon, you may now kiss the bride!"
Finally, this is it. Everyone became excited as the groom faced his bride. Staring deeply into her eyes, Kuon raised the veil and settled it properly behind her.
For a short moment. Kuon lingered into Kyoko's natural beauty. Now that the veil is away from her face, Kuon had just realized all the more that Kyoko looked the loveliest of all women. Oh God, he could stare longer at his fairy goddess in the next fifteen years of his lifetime!
While he gently cupped the other side of her face with his hand, Kuon lingered deep into their stare. It didn't matter to him now, that he had forgotten he actually had a small lapel mic pinned on his suit. All the guests inside the basilica and fans outside watching the flat screen heard every single word loud and clear. Thank goodness, the mediamen also captured this once in a lifetime scene that was never ever done by a newly wedded couple before. Not once.
"God you're so beautiful Kyoko... Just as always," whispered Ren in a soft, cool voice as he smiled at Kyoko. Everyone covered their squeals of happiness. Even the bridesmaids and Kanae held their bouquet close to them. "You will always be... The one I ever love."
"And I think you're the most handsome Emperor of the Night I ever love so much Kuon... Just as always," replied Kyoko in her low, soft voice.
"Really."
"Really. Drives me crazy... But that's my man."
If only the famous stars present could held on to their soft thrilled giggles further.
"I love you."
"I love you too."
Ren bent a bit and gave his bride the most passionate, loving kiss that almost seemed to last for eternity. When they broke apart, Rev. Francis Xavier then called.
"My dear brothers and sisters, I present to you the loving couple. Mr. and Mrs. Hizuri Kuon!"
Everyone clapped their hands in a thunderous applause and cheer. Lory crumpled at Sawara this time, and Kuu gave his children a thumbs up as he winked happily at them.
The Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and principal guests, Seiso Academy, joined together as the Kyoto Soulful Voices choir sang the hymn, "Blest Pair of Sirens" by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry as the couple went to the high altar to sign their wedding register.
When they were done, "Crown Imperial" by William Walton began to play during the procession of the bride and bridegroom on the aisle as the couple was joined by the entire bridal entourage behind them. After which, Toccata from Symphonie V by Charles-Marie Widor and Pomp and Circumstance March no. 5by Edward Elgarfollowed the service.
As Ren and Kyoko were out of the basilica, they were immediately greeted by loud cheers from the entire crowd. Together, Ren and Kyoko waved at all of them as they smiled happily. Just then, above the sky, Lory's special helicopters flew past them. Like a confetti of snow, thousands of flower petals that were of the same kind from Kyoko's own bouquet spread in the air.
The carriage procession began with Ren and Kyoko in Lory's custom State Landau Glass Coach that Kyoko rode towards the ceremony, followed by the principal sponsors, Lory, Kuu and the Darumaya couple also in Lory's custom black Ascot Landau Coach. Kanae, the bridesmaids Momose and Chiori together with their partners Fuwa Sho and Ichinose Kijima, Maria and the bearers Hio, Renjou and Shusei all rode in the president's custom red Ascot Landau Coach. Aiko and her best friends Chiyo, Kaori and Ayumi, Christian Dior, Giorgio Armani, Jelly Woods and the rest of the VIPs rode in Lory's custom white Semi- State Landau Coach. All the guests in attendance rode in the shining white stretch limo buses that took them.
Together, with the batch of police in their motorcycles and cars trailing with them on each sides and rear, the bridal entourage and their guests left the Miyazu Basilica for a one night glorious reception at The Villa.
# # # ~~~ # # #
Author's Note: Pardon me for the constant changes... The documents kinda frustrated me at the moment... Gomenasai Y_Y
*Kurotomesode- a black kimono patterened only below the waistline, the Kurotomesode is the most formal kimono for married women. They are often owrn by the mothers of the bride and groom at a wedding.
*State Landau Glass Coach – is a landau horse-drawn carriage owned by the United Kingdom for royal use within Britain. It is by far the most elegant of the several landau (among other styles) carriages used by the royal family. It carried Princess Diana & Prince Charles in their 1981 wedding, and Prince William and Catherine Middleton this year. The entire entourage is riding all royal family coaches in batches after the wedding ceremony. ^~
*Postillion – the driver of a horse- drawn coach, mounted on one of the drawing horses. By contrast, a coachman (like Sebastian) would be mounted on the vehicle along with the passengers.
I do hope you enjoy this chapter just as I do while writing it! ^^ All reviews are welcome! If you have any advice for me, please do tell me. I'd be happy to hear them!
Have a great reading! On to chapter ten now! ^^
God Bless you all, mwah :)
With so much love,
~MrAZ
