After a bath and a significant amount of grooming, Melanie was taken from her chambers back to the room where her dress waited. The servant helped her into the gown and pulled her hair back with combs.
She arrived back in her chambers where Merlin waited. He had abandoned his usual tunic and kerchief for a more formal outfit.
"You look beautiful Melanie." He hugged her.
"Thank you Merlin." She smiled. "You don't look too bad yourself."
"I'm proud of you, you know." He said.
"Proud of me? You're the one who was willing to risk his life for his best friend." He laughed and kissed her forehead.
"It's time." He said. He out an arm to her and she took it proudly as the set off to the ceremony.
Gwain stood at the end of the great hall looking like a king himself. His chainmail was newly polished and a crimson cape, embroidered with the crest of Camelot, hung from his shoulder.
A squire announced Melanie as the doors opened and Gwain's breath caught. In her knight's clothes she was gorgeous. But it hid her petite frame. The gown she wore hugged her curves and and the airy skirts make her look ethereal. Like a goddess send from the heavens.
Merlin walked his friend down the isle to where Gwain stood. Her eyes were bright with excitement as she came closer to her fiancé.
"Hello Beautiful." Gwain said.
"Hi." He took her hand into his own, leading her closer to him.
The ceremony went by in a blur, the two never taking their eyes off each other.
"You may kiss the bride." Geoffrey said. Gwain took her by the waist and kissed her hard.
The rest of the evening was spent at a banquet. Music played and everyone was merry. Gwain and Melanie danced all night. Never leaving each other's sides.
"You are stunning." He complemented his now wife as they danced. She giggled as he began playing with the ties on her gown.
"Darling please." She chided. "Wait until later."
"I can't help myself." He kissed her shoulder. "You're so beautiful I could take you right now." At that point, Melanie's face was a deep scarlet. Tonight would be her first time. She didn't know what to expect.
"Are you alright?" He asked, looking into her eyes.
"Just fine." She assured.
"I know that look." He countered, twirling her. "What's troubling you?"
"It's nothing you need concern yourself with." She was pressed against him once more as she kissed him.
They continued to dance before Merlin tapped Gwain on his shoulder.
"May I cut in?" He asked. Gwain stepped aside allowing the young warlock to dance with his childhood friend.
"I didn't know you could dance." Melanie jested.
"Very funny Melanie." He laughed. "Now what's wrong? I'm sure it's nothing I can't help you with."
"That's very kind of you Merlin." She replied. "But I'd rather not get advice on my sexual activities from you." Merlin's face turned an even darker shade of red than Melanie's had before.
"Nor would I like to give it." He laughed as the continued to dance.
The song ended and Melanie returned to her husband.
She found him laughing and jesting with Percival and Leon.
"There you are Beautiful." Gwain said, pulling her into his arms.
"You look lovely Melanie." Percival complemented.
"Thank you Percival."
Suddenly, the Kings voice rang out through the hall.
"I'd like to propose a toast!" He announced. "To Melanie and Gwain. Two of my finest knights. May they find happiness and health in their marriage!" The hall erupted in cheers as cups were raised.
"I believe that's your cue to leave." Leon said smiling.
"I do believe he's right." Gwain said. "Shall we?" Melanie smiled timidly as Gwain led her from the hall.