Now to continue from that cliffhanger. Will Helios and Shyvana reconcile? Will the wedding go off without a hitch? What pranks will come up this time? RaFO (Read and find out)!

Chapter X

"We need to talk," Helios stayed.

Shyvana looked at him...and then promptly slammed the door in his face.

Helios sighed. "Alright, fair enough. Guess we're doing this the hard way."

He grabbed the doorframe and ripped it off its hinges, setting it down in the room as he crossed the threshold.

"What, did you think I wasn't serious?" He asked. "I know you don't have a high opinion of me at the moment, but I didn't just come here to mess with you."

"Go away," Shyvana growled, "Yes, you're right, I don't think very highly of you. Can you blame me? Get out of my room,"

He sighed. "Well. In that case."

He tapped a finger on his cheek. "Hit me."

She stopped, blinking and frowning.

"What." she blinked.

"You heard me." He tapped the spot again. "Right here."

Her eyes shifted color and Sonja crossed her arms.

"I'm not going to hit you. Shyv might, but I'm not. Why do you want us to hit you…?"

"What, you scared?" He asked. "Some dragon you are."

One eye shifted amber and both Champion and Chosen punched the deity square in the nose, dragonfyre crackling around their fist.

He staggered back a step, but didn't fall.

"Come on, I barely felt that," he said. "Again."

She gave a roar and came at him again, landing blow after blow after blow. After the fifth or sixth blow a hot tear streaked down her cheek as her punches became fueled by anger mixed with sorrow rather than pure rage.

Helios shrugged it off, unimpressed. "Again."

She kept going. After about an hour and a half of her hitting him, her blows started becoming half hearted, gradually weakening until she fell to her knees, tears streaking down her face harder than ever.

Helios stroked his jaw from where she'd knocked him on his rear. She hadn't left a bruise, and by no means did it hurt as much as Leona's punches, but he still felt the force behind them. If he'd been a regular guy, they would've stung. A lot.

"Hell of a punch," he complimented. "Your father would be proud."

She said nothing, but the grief on her face was very visible. Even after all these years, she still felt his death as if it were only a few minutes ago.

She started when she felt something brush against her cheeks. Helios was gently wiping her tears away with his thumb. She was so surprised that she didn't think to pull his hand away.

"I always hated it when you cried," he said. "Still do, even now." Her grief was mirrored on his face.

"Look…" He sighed. "I know you don't want to talk to me. I completely understand why. But...please. At least allow me this. I'll answer whatever questions you have. I swear it."

"Plus," he sucked in one side of his lip, "Jarvan wants me to give you away at the waiting. I'd hate to disappoint him."

"That man...sometimes I swear…" she sniffed before looking up at him, "Why. Why did you leave me...why didn't you help me…"

"The same reason I couldn't help everyone else," Helios replied, "because of some bullshit rule my boss made because who-knows-why."

Thunder suddenly rumbled overhead.

"OH, REALLY?!" Helios yelled. "AFTER ALL THE STUPID SHIT I'VE DONE OVER THE YEARS, THAT'S WHAT SETS YOU OFF?!"

"Maybe it's not a good idea to tick off your boss…" Sonja stated slowly, "he probably had his reasons…."

"Oh, I'm sure he did," he grumbled. "It's not like it cost me my grandson's life or anything. Oh wait."

She said nothing.

"But in all seriousness…" he huffed, "there hasn't been a day that's gone by where I don't regret what happened. You have every right to be mad. I should've done more."

"When Yvva killed him, I-" he cut himself off, growling as the memory caused flames to sprout along his arms. "I was about ready to return the favor, right then and there. Out of all my offspring, Rahm was my favorite."

He sniffed, and to her surprise, Shyvana realized that tears were welling up in his eyes too.

"But dammit, then I would've had to deal with the consequences, and that would've only caused you more pain. I would've been replaced with someone else. The only time when stars can intervene is when another star screws up." He shuddered. "Then they're allowed to make...adjustments. I couldn't handle that, so I watched, as much as it hurt to do so."

"And when you tore out Yvva's heart…" he chuckled darkly. "I had never been prouder of you. She'd had it coming for a while.

"So believe me when I say this." His expression became pained. "I am so sorry that you had to go through that. I'm so sorry that you had to suffer while I sat on the sidelines. And I want you to know, that as weird as it sounds...I love you, Shyvana. I've loved you from the second you hatched from your mother's egg. You have exceeded my every expectation, and I will always be proud of you, no matter what."

The Half Dragon's eyes turned soft and she did something not many would expect her to do. She embraced him.

"Thank you…." she whispered.

Helios immediately returned the hug with a crushing embrace of his own. He couldn't help himself, really. He'd waited too long for this. But his granddaughter was strong, and she either didn't notice or didn't care. It didn't matter, either way.

Then he did something unexpected. He raised his lips to her forehead, gently kissing it. He pressed his nose into her hair next, nuzzling her while one hand ran over her back. He was acting like, well...a father.

Shyvana was happy with that. It'd been so long since she'd had anyone treat her like a father would his daughter. It made her happy...but there was a snap of sorrow that shot through her that brought the tears back.

"I just...I wish I could have told him I loved him one last time…" she whispered softly to herself.

"I know," he said, holding her close. "I miss him too."

Her eyes darkened and Sonja gave a hum.

"Do you...think that Dianne or her son could let us see him?" she asked, "To get some closure? I don't know if she can do that but…"

"I could ask," he replied. "It couldn't hurt to try. I'd do anything to make you happy."

"I think it would make us all happy," she smiled.

"I'll see what I can do," he promised. "But, for now, I believe you have a wedding to plan."

"Right," she nodded, "It's almost done...I just...need to get a dress. That's what I was looking for on that day…"

He grinned. "I might have some ideas for that."

"I just...I've seen what they want," she wrinkled her nose in distaste, "But it's not me. I'm not one of those stuffed shirt nobles. Think you can help me?"

"Trust me." He rubbed his hands together gleefully. "I'm going to make Jarvan salivate when I walk you down the aisle."

"Just...make sure it's fine with the idea of being Queen. I don't want to make it seem too...well," she shrugged, "I want to look the part,"

"Oh, I can do that just fine," he giddily replied. "Here, listen to this-"

He told her in elaborate detail what he had in mind.

She grinned.

He was right. Jarvan was going to love this.


A week passed, and it was finally time.

The wedding was to take place in the cathedral near the heart of the capital. It was the biggest in the entire city, able to house nearly half of its residents. A crowd of millions had already gathered, flooding into the building as the final preparations were made. Hundreds of lit candles lined the walls inside, bathing them in a soft golden light. A choir of children filled the stands behind the altar, ready to herald the bride's arrival. Demacian banners had been strung up above the candles, flanking the altar on both sides. It was a festive event, and the crowd was abuzz with excitement.

Selene's request for tighter security had not gone unfulfilled. Members of the Dauntless Vanguard stood vigilant at every available entryway, and patrolled the streets surrounding the cathedral in a loose ring-shaped perimeter. Not only that, but they were joined by Trifarian legionaries, by order of Jericho Swain himself. Katarina had appealed to his empathetic side, and after a lengthy discussion, he had agreed to send men from the Immortal Bastion, as well as attend the wedding in person. He wasn't the only one, either. Every champion from the Institute was in attendance. Even the Void champions, though Cho'Gath and Kog'Maw had to be placed in a separate box, just in case.

Jarvan nervously fiddled with the collar of his tuxedo, making sure he looked presentable.

"Stop, you look fine," Garen told his friend, "besides, it's not like she's going to care if it's crooked. She's just happy you'll be here,"

"Weren't you the one who spazzed out at yours because you couldn't get your tie straight?" Zack asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Mine was different. My wife would have probably stabbed me," Kaiden chuckled, "Projects hurt if you get hit by one,"

Zack looked over the crowd.

"When is this going to start?" He muttered.

"Knowing my brother, probably at the most opportune and dramatic moment," Selene replied, shaking her head next to him. "You know how he is. He must have something special in mind, if it's taking this long for them to arrive."

"Makes sense," Zack sighed.

"LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THE WAIT IS OVER!" Helios's voice boomed.

"Aaaaand there it is," Selene said.

"SHUT IT! THIS IS GONNA BE GOOD!" He replied.

She rolled her eyes, but didn't say anything more.

"YOU WANTED IT, YOU ASKED FOR IT, AND NOW IT'S HERE!" He continued. "HIT IT, KIDS!"

The choir started singing, and Jarvan automatically straightened his posture, fiddling with his tie one last time.

"FRIENDS, NOT-FRIENDS, AND EVERYBODY IN BETWEEN…"

Sunlight flooded in through the windows, gloriously illuminating the room. Stardust sprinkled through the air overhead, glittering in the golden light.

"I GIVE YOU…"

Cira shook her head from where she and her family sat, amused. He just couldn't help himself, could he?

"THE BRIDE!"

The central doors, which had purposefully been left shut during the seating process, swung open. Jarvan, Garen, Selene and the priest had to momentarily shield their eyes from the sudden flare of light that filled the room.

Jarvan's eyes bulged as it faded, his jaw slackening.

"Oh, my…" Selene murmured. "He certainly outdid himself this time."

Shyvana stood in the doorway, her arm locked with her grandfather's. Her dress was the color of sunfire, shimmering and shining in the midday light. From the waist up she was adorned in golden-orange armor. It wasn't unlike what she usually wore, but it was purely for the occasion. It was slimmer, hugging her curves more firmly, and was rounded out where there would normally be jagged edges. It also held notable Targonian influences in its design, particularly the intricate Solari patterns that flashed around the edges. Her arms had no sleeves, only bracers that adorned her wrists. On her brow sat a golden circlet, similar to Irelia's in design. Her hair had been tied back in a single braid, stardust woven into the fibers so that it glittered. Thin armored boots wrapped around her legs, stopping just short of the knee. Her dress opened up at the thighs to properly put them on display. Helios had received a bit of inspiration from his sister.

Jarvan was completely and utterly starstruck. Shyvana was absolutely radiant. She exuded the grace and serenity of a proper bride, but underneath lay the pride of a warrior. A partner worthy of the King.

"You're drooling just a tad," Garen chuckled and Jarven shook himself, not taking his eyes off his bride.

Shyvana locked eyes with him and smiled happily as she came closer. Upon closer inspection...she was nearly strangling the bouquet from nerves. She made it to the altar and she turned to face the King.

"You...look…" He tried to find the right words but none of them fit.

"You're quite handsome yourself," Sonja smiled,"you knew I wouldn't be caught dead in that floofy death trap they presented to me,"

"Yeah," Zack nodded as he held her hands and the priest started the ceremony.

In the crowd, the children of the Champions shifted as children do when being forced to sit still. Each varied in how bad their boredom was, but it was becoming evident that it was going to become a problem.

Eon looked up at the altar, his eyes staring at something no one else could see. Death's son turned to his mother and gently tugged on her fur.

"Momma, why is there a giant dragon u-"

"Later, dear," Dianne shushed him.

Eon gave an adorable grumbling whine but fell silent as his sister tried her best not to nod off as she laid against her father's side.

Nearby, Vasher gave a huffing growl and suddenly turned and hung upside down from the pew.

"Vasher!" Ashe hissed, gently yet firmly grabbing her daughter and righting her.

Her daughter sent a frosty green glare at her, but a glowing ice-blue glare from her mother met it. The little princess started kicking the pew in front of her, getting an annoyed glare from a Demacian Noble.

"Vasher Ingrid Ashesdotter," Ashe snapped, putting a firm hand on her daughter's shoulder, "Sit still!"

"I'm booooooooored!" Vasher whined.

"You'll live," Amelia grumbled, "See, Torin is being good,"

"Torin is a goody-two shoes and boring too!" Vasher retorted.

Sejuani started snorting and her sister gave her a steely glare.

"Don't. You. Start," Ashe growled, voice lacing with static.

Meanwhile, Apolla was swinging her legs back and forth in boredom. They were too short to hit anything, unlike Vasher's. But still, it didn't escape others' notice. Suddenly, she gave a sharp yelp and started tugging on her mother's arm.

"Mama! Ares pinched me!" she whined.

"Tattletale," Ares grumbled.

"Ares…" Pantheon warned, "Do we need to go outside,"

"No…" the boy huffed.

"What's taking so long?" Artemis whispered.

"Dunno," Zoe shrugged, "But I don't see Umbra or Evelynn anywhere…"

"What you wanna bet they're eatin' the cake?" Artemis grinned.

"Umbra would be!" Zoe giggled.

"Hush you two," Leona chided before looking up at the altar and muttering to her husband, "They are right...it is taking rather long,"

Her husband shrugged.

"Perhaps that is how Demacian weddings are?" he suggested, "I mean, they're not going to be short and to the point like Targonian ones with a massive celebration that lasts a week…"

"True...but this is a bit excessive…"

Helios gently nudged Jarvan from where he stood.

"So, how'd I do?" He whispered, clearly pleased with himself.

Jarvan said nothing, just having eyes for Shyvana.

"You got him staring with his mouth open and slightly drooling," Kaiden chuckled, "I'd say you did good,"

He snickered. "I only produce the highest quality waifus."

"I wish he'd hurry up," Kaiden muttered, "Tracy's starting to look anxious. I think she can hear Gabriel start…"

There was a soft crying noise coming from the congregation and a blonde woman stood up, cradling a red-haired infant who was bawling. Katarina watched as her mother in-law carried her son outside, but she looked like she wanted to follow...however...being a bridesmaid…

Lux shifted on her feet, the heels that had been picked already starting to bite into her feet. She looked at Fiora, who just calmly stood.

"How?" she whispered.

Fiora gave a sly grin and tapped her foot against the marble with a metallic click.

"Still too long ma amie," she sighed, "Wish he'd hurry up,"

Quinn's eyes narrowed.

"...He's stalling," she pointed out.

The priest paused. Helios's eye twitched, while Jarvan glowered.

"Please get on with the wedding," Jarvan growled, "We've been waiting for vows for nearly an hour,"

The priest sputtered.

"Y-Your majesty there are certain traditions…"

"Which you've already done," Jarvan pointed out.

"Traditions, my ass," Helios snarled. "I don't know why, but you're trying to drag this out."

Terror flashed over the man's face.

"Alright, asshole, who put you up to this?" Helios demanded.

His eyes flashed to a group seated near the back right. Jarvan's family.

"...Why am I not surprised…" Jarvan growled.

"I'll deal with you later," Helios scowled, leveling a finger at them warningly.

"In the meantime, you've gotta go," he told the priest.

"Go?" He blinked, "but…"

Helios sharply whistled.

Vivian was suddenly behind the priest, kicking him into the air. She jumped up and spiked him down towards Lenny, who, as an army veteran, was naturally prepared. He held a giant sack wide-open, letting the priest fall into it. He tied it shut, then threw it to Krista, who tossed it into a cart that had been randomly left outside. She kicked the cart, and it flew downhill, followed by the screams of the priest.

There was the sound of a gigantic splash.

"Was that the lake?" Selene frowned.

Helios sighed. "As much of a dirtbag he is, I don't want him to drown. Amber, can you take care of it?"

Amber grinned and went down the street to get the poor man out of the water.

"Still needs a bath," she said to herself, splashing him with water and making him sputter even more before she went back to the church.

Jarvan's family looked furious, but a smoldering glare from Helios cut them down.

"Everything taken care of? Good." Helios walked up to the altar, standing in front of the bride and groom. He snapped his fingers, and his outfit morphed into formal Targonian robes.

"Right. I guess I'm taking over then," he said mirthfully.

"...Oh no…" came the mutter from several Champions.

"What?" Helios spread his arms, indignant. "I'm not going to screw this up! For once, I'll actually be serious."

He smiled at Jarvan and Shyvana. "I think we've waited for the marriage vows long enough."

"Jarvan, do you take Shyvana to be your wife? Do you pledge to share your life with her, and to comfort her, honor her and keep her in sickness and in health, in sorrow and joy, so long as you both shall live?"

"I do," he smiled, holding her hands gently yet firmly.

"And do you, Shyvana, take Jarvan to be your husband? Do you pledge to share your life with him, and to comfort him, honor him and keep him in sickness and health, in sorrow and joy, so long as you both shall live?"

"I do," she said firmly, squeezing his hands as he did the same.

"Then, by the power vested in me by the Head Honcho himself, I now pronounce you husband and wife." His smile glowed with pride. "You may now kiss the bride."

"About time," Sonja muttered as she and Zack kissed each other.

The crowd went wild, cheering and applauding as the couple went down the aisle way. The Dauntless Vanguard all raised their swords and created a tunnel for the new King and Queen.

"And now, ladies and gentlemen," Helios spread his arms in declaration, "it's time to celebrate!"


The reception was held in one of the many ballrooms of the palace. A crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, scattering the light with flecks of rainbows from the candles. Swaths of blue, silver, white and gold were splashed throughout the room. It was a beautiful place. A massive, five tier wedding cake sat on the table not far from what seemed to almost be a buffet table filled with all sorts of delicacies. No expense was spared for this momentous occasion.

Helios embraced his granddaughter. "You have no idea how proud I am right now."

"Thank you...for everything," she smiled, positively glowing with happiness as she returned to her husband's side, letting him wrap his arm around her waist.

"Always happy to do my part," he returned her expression, then jabbed a finger at Jarvan's chest. "And you - remember what we discussed a while back. All the way from Mount Targon, you hear?"

"What's he talking about?" Sonja asked as Zack's face went very red.

"Don't worry about it…" he muttered, though to who he was saying it to was up in the air.

"He wants Jarvan to thoroughly ruin you during your honeymoon," Selene smirked. "And I don't mean that in a negative sense."

"I thought you were the good sibling…" came the King's sigh through his hands while his newly made wife chuckled.

"Oh come now Jarvan, we both know that it's going to happen anyway," she replied. "I'm only helping things along."

"Speaking of helping things along…" Helios started rolling up his sleeves (he'd changed into a tuxedo with a red shirt underneath before the party). "I need to go have a little chat with the in-laws, so that they don't stir up trouble again."

"Don't hurt them too badly, they're still family," Zack told him with a grin.

"Oh, don't worry. The beatdown I'm going to deliver will be nothing short of affectionate," he said, marching over to where they were grouped.

All of them winced, as he proceeded to dish out his own special brand of tough love.

"You think they're going to cause us any more trouble?" Jarvan asked his bride.

"I don't think so," Shyvana grinned, "If his temper's anything like mine, probably not a good idea to set it off again,"

Selene laughed. "Even after all these years, the blood of the sun still runs hot in its descendants."

Helios walked back, ordering himself a glass of champagne. "I don't think they'll be a problem anymore," he said. He had a few bloodstains on his knuckles. "They're a bit miffed, but we managed to get everything sorted out."

"Well, at least there are no lost ears and no one died," Javan deadpanned, taking a sip of his own drink.

"Oh I'm wondering what Demacian Noble is going to try and court Fiora...remember the last ball that happened at?" Shyvana grinned.

"I'm trying to erase that memory…" he admitted, "I'd never seen anyone fly across a room that fast from a backhanded slap because he touched her backside. Nor have I ever seen anyone draw a weapon so fast in my life,"

"There won't be any Demacians courting her this year," Helios said, taking a sip. "Nor any year, for that matter. She's taken."

"What do you mean?" Jarvan asked only for his wife to tap on his shoulder and point.

He looked up…

"Seamus." Zack blinked, "No way! I didn't think he'd ever find someone. And I never thought that Darius would get over Quill's death…"

"Seems like he has though," Sonja grinned, "Well...somewhat. They're still kinda not together yet. Though, I can see Krista plotting to get them together from here,"

"She plots to get a lot of people together...the Troll Queen of Matchmaking is at it again…"

"I can vouch for that," Helios muttered.

"Sorry, want to say that a little louder, Helios?" Selene asked, a brow raised.

"Nah, it's not important," he replied.

His face lit up, and he pointed at a table near the buffet. "Hey, check out Jericho and Evaine."

"They're nearly holding hands, that's a new record for them!" Sonja cooed, "Hmm, maybe we should actually start the dancing so that we can poke fun at other ships,"

"I've got no problem with that," Zack agreed, "Brigid, we're ready! Ariel, you too!"

Brigid gave a smile and a thumbs up as she glided to the music stand and tapped on the soundboard, bringing the mood music to a halt.

The lights dimmed with the press of another key, and spotlights shone down on the dance floor in the center of the ballroom.

Helios shot a sidelong glance at Shyvana, the ends of his mouth twitching upward. "You want me to go with you first, or do you want your man for a while?"

"I think it'd be best for you to go second," Selene recommended. "You're going to need a moment to adjust."

"Adjust for wh-"

He stopped mid-sentence, spellbound.

Ahri stepped up to the microphone, her hair blonde like her popstar skin. The skirts of a long, pale pink ball gown rustled as she moved. Her tails swayed behind her, and one brushed against a gold bow that was around her hips, like a wrapped present almost. Her ears twitched a bit at she saw Helios, but she quickly looked away and gave a thumbs up to Brigid.

The woman gave a nod and started the song. As Ahri began to sing, one of her pure white tails tails curled around the microphone's stand and she held it close to her.

"Everybody's on the same page

No new chapters

We'll never change

Everybody wants to be cool, yes they do

And I'm just like them

But I won't be no fool

I guess I could waste all my time and my money

Just trying to look right

But it doesn't change who I am in my heart if I look like a dime"

Jarvan took his bride and the two danced on the floor, contentedly holding each other.

"So I want you to close your eyes

Sing to the world tonight

And show them what's beautiful

I don't care what they think

No I'm not listening

Cause I know I'm beautiful

So close your eyes,"

The crowd was silent, watching with smiles and pride as the two whirled around the dancefloor. Shyvana's dress brushing against the marble floor with light whispers.

"Ahri's putting on quite the performance, hm?" Selene said softly to her brother.

"Yeah," he replied, keeping his gaze glued to the vastaya. "She is."

"Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful

Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful

Come on, show them

Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful

Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful"

Selele placed a hand on his shoulder.

"You should tell her how you feel," she said. "Stop beating around the bush."

"What? No!" He replied. "Like I said, I don't- I-"

He sighed. "Okay, fine. I don't love her or anything, but…there's something there. I don't know what it is, but...I don't know."

"So you do like her," Selene affirmed.

"I- ...yeah. I guess."

"Everybody's born to be different

That's the one thing that makes us the same

So don't you let their words try to change you

Don't let them make you into something you ain't,"

"Then for gods' sake, do something about it," she replied. "She clearly feels the same way, and it'd be rude not to act on that."

"What makes you think she likes me back?" He asked.

"So I want you to close your eyes

Sing to the world tonight

And show them what's beautiful

I don't care what they think

No I'm not listening

Cause I know I'm beautiful

So close your eyes"

She facepalmed. "You can tell when some random girl off the street has an interest in you, but when it comes to someone you like, you're clueless? What kind of dunce are you?"

"Hey!" He said. He folded his arms, sulking. "You don't have to be so on-the-nose about it."

"Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful

Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful

Come on, show them

Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful

Sh-sh-show them what's beautiful"

"I know that you've seen the way she looks at you sometimes," she said. "Or rather, the way she doesn't. The poor thing gets so flustered whenever she sees that you're staring."

"Then what do you suggest I do?"

"Talk to her," she replied. "If not that, at least ask her to dance."

He frowned, contemplating what she'd said. "I'll think about it."

That would have to do, for now.

"Show the world the you inside

Raise your voice and close your eyes

Cause you're beautiful

Come on and show the world the you inside

Raise your voice and close your eyes

Cause you're beautiful"

After a moment, Helios felt something gently tug on his tuxedo jacket. "Mister…?" a small voice asked.

He looked down to see Eon standing there. "Oh. Hey," he said. "What can I do for ya?"

The child pointed behind the man. "Why is there a giant dragon following you?"

He frowned. He didn't see anything. "There...isn't."

"Oh…" Eon sounded slightly disappointed. "So it's a spirit. I guess only mama and I can see it."

"You...what?" Eon was already walking away before Helios's question could be answered.

He shook it off, watching the dance approach its end.

"So I want you to close your eyes

Sing to the world tonight

And show them what's beautiful

I don't care what they think

No I'm not listening

Cause I know I'm beautiful

So close your eyes"

The crowd cheered as the song finished, the newlyweds' dance with it. They cheered louder when Shyvana pulled Jarvan into a searing kiss, which he immediately returned.

Ahri smiled, then slowly walked over to the corner of the stage to get a drink from a bottle of water that she had.

Shyvana looked at Helios as she pulled away. Brigid looked at him expectantly.

Selene nudged him with her elbow. "Well? Best not to keep her waiting."

Helios straightened his tuxedo, then went to join his granddaughter on the dance floor, while Jarvan was approached by his mother, Lady Catherine.

"Might I have this dance, Your Majesty?" Helios asked, offering his hand to Shyvana.

"Of course," she smiled, taking it.

They moved to one end of the dance floor, while Jarvan and Catherine took the other.

Ahri had finished with her drink and was back at the microphone. She nodded to Brigid this time to signal she was ready.

Shyvana wrapped her arms around Helios's neck, while he put his arms around her waist.

"She spins and she sways
To whatever song plays
Without a care in the world
And I'm sitting here wearing
The weight of the world on my shoulders
It's been a long day
And there's still work to do
She's pulling at me saying
"Dad, I need you
There's a ball at the castle
And I've been invited
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please"

He twirled her and swept her away before pulling her back close as the chorus rang out.

"So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone,"

She looked over at Jarvan and his mother, who were waiting for their turn. She saw him step a tad closer as the second verse began and she looked at Helios.

"She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed
She wants to know if I approve of her dress
She says,
"Dad, the prom is just one week away
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"

He smiled, placing a kiss on her forehead. She rested her head on his shoulder, beaming.

"So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone.
She will be gone"

He twirled her around again and spun so that he was facing Jarvan, looking over her shoulder.

"Thank you...for everything," she whispered.

"Any time, my little dragoness," he replied. "Wherever you are, whenever you need me, just call to the heavens. And I will answer. Always."

"Well, she came home today with a ring on her hand
Just glowing and telling us all they had planned
She says,
"Dad, the wedding's still six months away
But I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"

The tears streaming down her face were starting to smudge the makeup that Ahri and Lux had helped apply. Helios swung her into another, seemingly more heartfelt dance as the last chorus rang out.

"So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be…"

He nodded at Jarvan, and the King wrapped up his own dance with his mother, taking Shyvana as Helios twirled her towards him.

"Gone," Ahri sang as Shyvana lay her head on her husband's chest and the two danced for a brief moment before kissing again as the spotlight faded on Helios and kept on the husband and wife.

Helios sniffed, wiping his own tears away as he faded back into the crowd.

"Well done," Selene congratulated, embracing him. "I'm so glad that you two could have a moment like this."

"So am I," he agreed. "And I know that I'm leaving her in good hands."

He frowned, as he remembered what Eon had said. "Did you see where Eon went? He said something earlier that I need to get clarification on."

"Right over there, with his father," She flicked her head at the opposite end of the crowd.

"Thanks." He exited the crowd, walking around to the other side.

Selene shook her head. He was up to something, he was sure of it. Ah, well. Nothing she could do about it now. She elected to keep watching the newlyweds enjoy themselves.

On the other side of the room, Eon sat curled up with a book, right next to his dad. His sister was snoozing on Nick, though he didn't seem to mind.

"Hey, Eon." Helios approached from the back. "Do you know where your mom is?"

The boy didn't respond, due to simply how engrossed in his book he was. Upon noticing, Nick chuckled and replied instead. "Dianne went to find Sable earlier. She mumbled something about a cake…"

"Thanks," Helios replied, jogging off to find them.

As he went off, a small, giggling form brushed against him, though, despite his efforts to try to see the child, nothing was there.

He rolled his eyes, but smiled all the same.

"I know you're there, Umbra," he said. "Running from your mother, are you?" Was

"Auntie Dianne. She's mad that mama and I had sweets."

"I'll swipe you some if you help me find her," he promised. "I really need to talk to her."

The little girl became visible, her brown eyes wide. "Okay!" she grabbed his hand and started running back towards where she had been coming from.

Lucky for him (not so much Umbra), Dianne had been pursuing Umbra from that direction already.

The little girl let out a squeal and went invisible, though Helios could feel her hugging a leg.

"Helios." Dianne murmured. "What are you doing with Umbra?" Her eyes glowed beneath her mask.

"Looking for you," he replied. "There's something I need to talk to you about."

He told her what was on his mind, and asked whether or not it was possible.

She thought about it for a moment, completely forgetting the shadow child. "If Eon and I work together, it might."

"Then see that it gets done," he said. "This would mean the world to her."

"I'll do my best. Speaking of Eon… I need to get back to him, Astrid, and Nick," Dianne stated, starting to walk off. After a moment though she paused and turned. "Umbra!"

Helios shook his head, chuckling as he ordered another glass of champagne. Kids would be kids.

Brigid and Sona started playing slow-dance music, as Jarvan announced that the other couples would now have a turn on the dance floor.

Right on cue, a score of Summoners and single Demacians turned to look at Ahri.

Helios froze, just as he was about to take a sip of his drink.

"Well. This is about to get messy."


Ariel took over as the mass of people encroached on her and her champion, crowding around the stage before she was even able to step off.

"There's too many people at this point," Ariel murmured. "We're going to have to dance with someone, or be considered rude, simply due to the sheer amount of people."

"Doesn't mean we want to…" Ahri replied softly.

People began to call after the champion as she finally stepped off the stage.

"Ahri! Over here!"

"Looking good!"

"Want to dance?"

The sheer chaos and noise made the fox's ears flatten against her head to try to cancel out some of the sound that burst around her.

"May I have this dance?" A smooth, yet familiar voice asked, extending a hand to her from the back of the crowd.

Ahri paused as she noticed the hand. Somehow, she felt like it would be her best choice, and yet it was somehow familiar. If she had to choose, she might as well choose her partner now. With barely any hesitation, she took the hand and let it guide her. It pulled her out of the crowd with a surprising amount of force, despite the obvious displeasure of the bachelors.

She froze, as she realized that Helios was the hand's owner.

"Hi," he said, as he swept her onto the dance floor.

"H-Helios," she stammered, her face turning a pale pink beneath her makeup.

"I hope you don't mind," he said, wrapping his arms around her waist. "You looked like you could use a hero, so…" he shrugged, with a dorky grin on his face. "Here I am."

She nearly snorted, but instead let out a sigh, as she put her arms around his neck. "Thank you for that."

"Of course," he replied. "I'll always be there to help you out."

She nodded, and unbidden, leaned into him.

His face flushed, but then he relaxed. Holding her like this felt...good. Part of him wasn't really surprised, but still. She smelled like lotus blossoms. Her tails occasionally brushed against him when she wasn't paying attention, and he couldn't help but take note of how soft they were. Her eyes shone like stars, twin coronas that glowed whenever she looked at him.

He could see the bachelors seething out of this the corner of his vision, but a scathing glance on his part sent them scattering.

Brigid looked up, seeing Krista pointing at the two. A smile crossed her face and she started playing.

"You don't mind dancing with me?" He asked Ahri. "You can find another bodyguard if you want. I just wanted to make sure you wouldn't have to deal with those pigs."

"No, no, this is fine." She looked at him, eyes widened a bit. "I mean I do enjoy your company and you didn't seem like a bad dancer earli-" she cut herself off, embarrassed to admit that she had been watching him.

A cheeky grin spread across his face.

"Oh, so you were ogling me, were you?" He asked. "You flatter me." He'd been hesitant at first, but when it came to poking fun, he could never resist.

She sputtered, and Ariel took over, looking him straight in the eyes. "Yes." Chaos then broke loose as Ahri was back in control, her face beet red.

Helios's face turned the same color. He snapped out of it to level a glare at the bachelors that had taken offense at that statement. They backed down.

"Uh...wow." He blushed, once he'd remembered what Ariel said. "That's, uh...that's kinda neat, I guess."

A nod as Ahri tried avoiding his gaze in any logical way she could.

That was when they heard a low, warm female voice drifting above the crowd as the music changed.

"I found a love for me

Darling just dive right in

And follow my lead

Well I found a girl beautiful and sweet

I never knew you were the someone waiting for me

'Cause we were just kids when we fell in love,"

Their heads snapped up at the stage. Cira was at the microphone, and Krista was standing on the sidelines, jumping up and down as she squealed. Shyvana, Jarvan and Selene were also watching, equally amused.

Oh, no.

He'd dun goofed this time.

"Not knowing what it was

I will not give you up this time

But darling, just kiss me slow, your heart is all I own

And in your eyes you're holding mine

He deadpanned at the lot of them. I hope you realize how insufferable you are, his gaze seemed to say.

They only snickered harder. Cira was too busy singing, though her smile grew.

He looked at Ahri.

She awkwardly smiled, shrugging.

He sighed, then chuckled.

"Baby, I'm dancing in the dark with you between my arms

Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

When you said you looked a mess, I whispered underneath my breath

But you heard it, darling, you look perfect tonight."

They started swaying to the beat, rocking in sync with each other's movements. Ahri readjusted her grip around Helios's neck, moving a little closer to him.

"Well I found a woman, stronger than anyone I know

She shares my dreams, I hope that someday I'll share her home

I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets

To carry love, to carry children of our own,

She bit her lip, staring down at the floor. She looked so nervous. Helios couldn't blame her. He was never going to be able to live this down, if Krista had her way.

But he wouldn't let Ahri deal with the pressure like this.

"Hey," he said softly. "You're doing fine. Just keep your eyes on me."

She looked up at him. Her lips parted, letting the tension leave her arms as she exhaled.

We are still kids, but we're so in love

Fighting against all odds

I know we'll be alright this time

Darling, just hold my hand

Be my girl, I'll be your man

I see my future in your eyes."

He freed her arms from his neck to twirl her around, bringing her back in. She blushed, moving her hands to his shoulders.

"Baby, I'm dancing in the dark, with you between my arms

Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

When I saw you in that dress, looking so beautiful

I don't deserve this, darling, you look perfect tonight."

They were getting more confident in their dancing now. Their movements flowed more smoothly, unrestricted by their earlier nervousness. The music escalated higher and higher, their pulses following with it. Their eyes remained locked, both mesmerized by the other.

She was stunningly beautiful.

He was breathtakingly captivating.

"Baby, I'm dancing in the dark, with you between my arms

Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

I have faith in what I see

Now I know I have met an angel in person

And she looks perfect

I don't deserve this."

The tension was too strong. The temptation too great.

His willpower collapsed, and he finally gave in.

He took Ahri by the chin, leaned in and kissed her.

"You look perfect tonight."

Krista nearly fell over from the cuteness. Cira gave a nod to Brigid, thanking her, before going back to her family. Selene folded her arms, nodding with satisfaction. Took you long enough, she thought.

Ahri herself was too stunned to properly react. She simply melted into him, as well as the kiss itself. Deep in her mind, Ariel was most likely teasing her, but the fox didn't mind for once when it came to this. She was happy, and, with how she currently felt? The world could go to hell and she'd be fine.

"So, um…" Helios pulled away once he noticed the song was over, bashfully rubbing his neck. "You might've already figured this out, but...I like you. A lot."

"As.. do I," she murmured, glancing away slightly, though nothing like earlier. One of her tails gently curled around her wrist as she looked back at him.

"Oh. Well." He smiled, half-embarrassed, half-overjoyed. He really did look like a dork, but Ahri liked that. Dorky was cute, she'd realized. "I'm glad that the feeling's mutual, then."

She nodded. "I was worried that Ariel and Krista might've been pushing us too hard or you might not feel the same…" Ahri started rambling.

"Hey, hey," he chuckled, interlocking his fingers with hers. He gently rubbed the fur of the tail wrapped around her wrist with his thumb, and she shivered, calming down. "They did make me hesitate, but more because I didn't think you'd like me back. It's all good now, though. Selene finally made me get off my ass."

She smiled, "I can kind of see her doing that." She gently squeezed his hand as she leaned against him. "This is nice. Finally letting go of all of my knotted up feelings, I mean."

"Yeah," he replied. "It is."

She put her head on his shoulder, turning her face into him. He rested his chin on her head, running his fingers over the small of her back. She purred, the vibrations raising goosebumps under his shirt.

A bright flash stunned them both, and they looked to see Krista with the widest grin she'd ever had, holding up her phone.

"Krista, no." He glowered. "Don't you even think about it."

"Already thought about it," she grinned, "Annnnd it's kinda all over the Institute by now. What's the matter? I thought you liked being in the spotlight?"

"Not like this!" He cried. "You killed the moment!"

"I'm just helping out a friend," she replied sweetly, "A sweet moment broadcasted for everyone to see...sound familiar?"

"That was different. She invoked my wrath."

"And by doing that invoked mine and hers," came the grin, "You know what they say about revenge after all,"

She gave a cheeky wave and nearly skipped back to her friends.

"Ugh." He huffed. "There goes our privacy for the evening, I guess."

"It was bound to happen," Ahri shrugged. "Krista is… Krista. She would've done that at some point tonight most likely."

"Yeah, I guess it doesn't matter." He smirked at her. "We'll just have to do it over, won't we?"

He pressed his lips to hers, and she shivered with excitement, eagerly pressing back. Her tails started wandering all over him, caressing his chest, his neck, his jaw. He didn't mind, though. He rather liked the way they felt.

Gods, she tastes amazing, he thought, smiling into the kiss. She smelled like lotus blossoms, but her lips tasted like wildberries, overwhelming him with an intoxicating sweetness.

Gods, he tastes amazing, she thought, smiling into the kiss. He smelled like freshly burnt charcoal, and his lips had a spicy and smoky taste, which filled her head and left her mind in a haze.

"And, y'know, we can just take it slow, if you want," he said, once they'd finished. "I don't want to drag you into some crazy whirlwind romance or anything."

"That's fine by me," she murmured, still in a bit of a daze from the second kiss.

Shyvana watched the two, grinning and turning to her husband.

"How long you think until I have a grandmother…"

"Not sure. But I never thought that you would have one that's almost your age,"

"Me neither,"


The party continued until close to midnight. Up until that time, they'd done just about everything that was expected at a wedding. Shyvana tossed the bouquet, and to her embarrassment, Fiora was the one who caught it. Darius looked equally abashed, though he was quick to force it down after becoming the subject of Swain's amusement.

Krista waggled her eyebrows at Helios and Ahri shortly afterward, but they just shrugged it off. They were too busy making eyes at each other to care, anyways.

Jarvan cut the cake for his bride next, and it downspiraled into the two launching into a giggling fit while they shoved it into each other's faces. Helios couldn't resist the opportunity, and used it to declare a food fight, which lasted an hour.

But, eventually, it was time to call off the festivities, and most of the guests had to retire. Only the couple's closest friends and relatives remained. Helios and Ahri had vanished at some point, probably concocting some insufferable scheme. Dianne and Eon had gone too, for gods-knew-why. The rest had pulled up a table, finishing off leftovers from the buffet.

"Not that I'm complaining...but I'm almost glad the festivities are done," Zack said.

"'All the way from Targon.'" Sonja teased, making her husband's face turn red, "speaking of...where is he…"

"Probably with Ahri," came the reply, "or off doing shenanigans."

"...Vasher was here wasn't she…" Sonja asked with a bit of dread.

"She went home with her parents, still awake after all that frosting…"

"Thank God she didn't meet him…"

"I think you just jinxed it, dear," Selene said, sipping from a glass of wine.

"Eventually they'll meet...and then the universe ends," Sonja sighed, "and Ashe and Tryn are going to kill me,"

"Not if Helios and Vasher drive them mad first," she replied.

"...that is also a possibility,"

"I don't even want to know what those two are going to cook up," Selene groaned, massaging her temples. "I can already feel a headache coming on."

"And when Riya is fully grown…"

"We're doomed," Selene lamented.

"Hey, Shyvana?" Helios poked his head out the balcony door. "I need to show you something. Jarvan can come too."

The two newlyweds looked at each other but followed him.

Shyvana saw the others first, standing near the balcony. Ahri, Eon and Dianne were all smiling.

Why were they-

She looked to her right, and she gasped, holding a hand to her mouth as her eyes flooded with tears.

"Hello, Shyvana," her father said.

He...he was there. He was real.

And yet, at the same time, he wasn't. He was just as towering and grand as she remembered him to be, but his presence no longer carried the same weight. Wisps of pale smoke trailed off his form, which was a translucent white. He'd curled up near the edge, and almost took up half the entire balcony.

He gave a toothy grin. "Surprised to see me?"

She staggered forwards, reaching a trembling hand out, her breath shaky.

He nuzzled her hand, and surprisingly, his scaly skin was solid.

She let out a strangled, yet ecstatic wail and embraced him, tears streaming down her face as she sobbed.

Rahm returned the hug with his neck, laughing softly. "I've missed you as well, little one."

"H-How…" she sniffed.

"You can thank our grandfather for that," he replied, gesturing towards him with his snout. "I'd been following him around for some time, and after my presence was made known to him, he managed to pull a few strings."

She immediately ran to him and hugged him tightly.

"Thank you…" she whispered, "Thank you…"

"I said I'd do anything to make you happy, didn't I?" He asked, hugging her back. "Consider this my atonement, for missing all those birthdays."

She burst into tears again.

"Dry your tears," he said, wiping them away. "This is a happy occasion. Your father's waiting for you."

She looked to see him waiting expectantly, though he was being patient about it. Shyvana came up to him and embraced him one more time.

"I'm sorry I couldn't…" she whispered, "I couldn't save you…"

"Don't be," he replied. "If I had chosen to save myself, your mother would have killed you. Faced with that possibility, sacrificing myself was the only real choice I could have made."

"Seeing you now, I am glad that I did," he smiled. "You've grown so much since I last saw you. Not in body, but in spirit. I can't really call you 'little one' anymore. You've become an impressive dragoness in your own right, which is more than I ever could have asked for."

He grinned. "And you've become a fine queen as well, from what I've gathered."

"I hope I can make you proud," she told him, putting a hand to her chest and feeling the warmth of her own inner fire, "That would make me happy...even if I couldn't do anything else,"

Rahm chuckled. "You've already done that, my child. You've proven yourself a thousand times over, ever since you arrived in Demacia. I am, and always will be proud of you, until the end of time."

His nose lowered to her stomach, nuzzling it. It tickled, and Shyvana giggled in response.

"And soon, you'll have hatchlings of your own," he said. "And I'll be a grandfather."

He looked at Jarvan. "I've never had the chance to properly thank you. You've given my daughter everything, and for that I am eternally grateful."

"She saved me, I can never repay that debt," he explained, "By whatever Providence is out there, I'm glad they led her to me and me to her,"

"As am I," he agreed. He laughed. "I never would have imagined that my daughter would become royalty!"

Helios offered his fist to him, smug. Rahm bumped it with the claw of his wing.

"Yep, they're dads alright," Sonja chuckled as her husband put his arm around her.

"I hate to say this," Dianne started, "But Rahm can't stay much longer. It takes a fair bit of magic to keep him visible and he's been wandering between living and the afterlife for a bit too long."

He sighed, smiling sadly. "All good things must come to an end, I suppose."

Rahm craned his neck towards Shyvana. She embraced his head, pressing her forehead to his with her eyes closed.

"I have to go," he said. "Your mother was wrong. You've made your ancestors proud. As I am."

She hugged him even harder.

"I love you, Father," Shyvana whispered.

"I love you too, Shyvana," he replied. "Now and always."

White smoke started trailing from him in excess, completely enveloping him. When it dissipated, he was gone.

"Shyvana?" Jarvan asked, "Are you alright?"

She gave a nod, tears still streaming, but a sweet smile on her face.

"I'm sad...but happy…" she whispered, "I'm at peace now. Just like I hope he is,"

"He is," Dianne promised.

Helios smiled, wrapping an arm around Ahri's waist. She leaned into him as he pulled her close.

He sighed contentedly. "That was a pretty damn good way to end the evening."

"That it was," Jarvan agreed.

"You certainly looked like you enjoyed it," Helios told Shyvana. "I guess that means I picked out a decent present for the wedding, huh?"

"You did," she nodded, smiling.

He yawned. "Oh, geez. It's getting late, even for me. Probably about time that we turn in." He snickered down at Ahri, who looked about ready to pass out.

"It looks like my lady needs to head home too," he added humorously. "I'll see you guys later."

"And remember: all the way from Targon, got it?" He reminded Jarvan.

Zack facepalmed while Sonja snickered.

"You gonna take your shift now, sis?" He asked Selene, who was standing in the doorway.

"Naturally," she replied. "See you in the morning, everyone." She faded into silver light.

A soft snoring told them that Ahri had fallen asleep. He laughed, but softly, so he wouldn't wake her.

"I guess this was a little too late, even for her," he said. "G'night, everyone."

They replied in kind, watching as he and his new girlfriend faded into golden flames.

Shyvana smiled, leaning against her husband.

Her life was completely and utterly perfect.


Helios opened the door to Ahri's room, carrying the vastaya in his arms. Spotting her bed, he gently laid her down upon it, pulling the covers over her.

There was also the matter of her dress. It wasn't really something to wear to bed. He snapped his fingers, and flames momentarily engulfed her body. When they faded, she was dressed in a nightgown, her hair and tails back to their normal color.

He smiled affectionately. She was adorable like this. Her lips had parted slightly, her tails automatically curling up to act as additional pillows and blankets.

He had a girlfriend. And an extremely attractive one at that.

Wow.

How had he gotten so lucky?

He shook his head, chuckling. He leaned in, gently pressing a kiss to her lips.

"Sleep well," he said. "I'll see you in the morning."

He exited her room, quietly shutting the door behind him.

He paused, as something occurred to him.

His space sprouted a mischievous grin.

He transported himself to Mount Targon shortly after, standing directly on the peak. He leaned his head in the direction of Demacia, listening.

A short while after, he heard it.

Jarvan had gotten started early.

"My man!" Helios said.

Next...the world ends. Songs used: "Close Your Eyes"- Meghan Trainor, "Cinderella"- Steven Curtis Chapman, "Perfect"-Ed Sheeran.

Chosens Used (We Are Warriors)
Leona- Cira Noble (Jonson)

Pantheon-Arthur Jonson

Jarvan IV-Zack Turner

Kindred-Dianne Faye (Diamond)

Sion-Nick Diamond

Kalista-Krista Rhon

Ahri-Ariel Royal

Ashe- Amelia Whitworth (Hodges)

Katarina- Tracy Armstrong (Darkhound)

Fiora-Victoria Meraux

Lux-Amelia Pond

Quinn-Seluna Rossignol (Armstrong)

Garen-Kaiden Darkhound

Evelynn-Sable Witchbriar (Delmont)

Shyvana-Sonja Chadayev

Chosens Used (We Are Chosen)

Kindred-Dianne Faye

Lucian-Arthur Jonson (Senna-Cira Noble)

Leona-Janie Noble

...And then there are Helios and Selene.

Anyway, hope you liked it. If you did, please let me know!

Qui vállë tóquetë, ván tecë (If no review comes from y'all; no story comes from me)

Máriessë ar mára tecië

Farewell and fair writing

Elhini Prime signing off.