The Cerelan Dilemma
Chapter 37
Tradition dictated on Vulcan that the woman being bonded wear her Clan's wedding gown passed down through generations. Amanda, however, had no Clan on Vulcan, save for her husband's. It was then determined that she wear the gown of her husband's Clan.
Amanda peered at herself in the ancient mirror as the handmaidens arranged her hair in perfect symmetry. She was torn by a torrent of conflicting emotions. She was overjoyed to be out of Salek's home, and away from where he could harm her again. But she was very frightened for Sarek's life. The threat to him was unmistakable. His life was to be spared, and no more than that from her was required. How many people on Vulcan…hated her so?
Amanda was amazed at how many dwellings were on the Marriage Grounds. There was of course, an ancient stone house for the wedding couple to retreat to immediately following the ceremony. There were also other houses on the premises. There were guest homes for Clan members who had to travel far to arrive. Expected to stay while Sarek's Time ran its course were a few members of Sarek's family, women trained in tending to the female in case of accidental injury.
Most pleasing to her was the honor of wearing the wedding gown from Sarek's Clan. T'Pau herself had worn the gown, and undoubtedly would be presiding over the events today. It was beyond beautiful. It shimmered with a life all its own, with its silver material, its beauty unmarred by nearly 100 years of use. Most Clan gowns lasted about a century or so- depending on alterations required. Amanda found herself slightly embarrassed by the way it fastened. No buttons or hooks or anything else that could be ripped by a husband in plak tow, it instead used snaps that would easily come undone by an eager mate.
Amanda appraised herself in the mirror. This gown was rather short, and for once she found herself thankful for her less-than-average height. The modesty gave her some confidence as she realized she was facing one of the most daunting challenges of her life. How to spare her husband's life?
The handmaidens departed, leaving Salek to stand in the door, staring at Sarek's wife, in her wedding gown. Amanda's heart leapt with terror as his manic green eyes scanned her appearance.