Chrysanthemums bore a promise, but also acceptance today. Shirayuki stood in a white gown, looking as beautiful as a princess, and before her were Chrysanthemums, a symbol of royalty, as well as a promise of fidelity and love. And somehow, it felt like a rush within her, like a waterfall leading into a full pool of water.
Shirayuki wasn't born a noble, wasn't born into a royal family, had to work hard to prove that she was worth keeping around, worth dating the Second Prince of Clarines, honest enough to not seek something that she couldn't have gotten on her own. It was a whirlwind of a time to get to this day.
Shirayuki had never sought to marry nobility, let alone a prince, and she had never sought to somehow enter the noble life. Instead, she'd kept focused on herbalism, becoming a better herbalist and chasing her dreams in that regard. But along the way, life had lots of surprises.
And then, she met Zen, who she fell in love with. First as a friend, only later coming to terms with him being a noble, being a prince. And here, she finds herself standing, all ready to walk down the aisle and meet Zen at the altar. All ready to profess her love and vow a life with him, that she hopes will be fruitful, hopes will be lifelong and filled with joy.
And regardless of what that life looks like, she will stay by his side. She's made her choice and will seal it with a vow, and waiting at the altar is Zen, who will also give the rest of his life to her, for better or for worse.
She took a deep breath. Today, her red hair is hidden by a veil but not completely obscured, and today she is making a promise that will change the rest of her life, for better or for worse. But she's positive that this is only the beginning to an even greater adventure.
Shirayuki walks down the aisle, hand against Izana's arm, letting his approval ring out, as anyone to marry his brother must first be approved by him. And when she gets there, and her eyes meet Zen's, Shirayuki feels that quiet calm of rightness sink into her bones.
A promise will be made today that is permanent, and what a joy that is!