The temple was nearly overcrowded for the ceremony. Just under 1,000 people, both Theowei and foreigners alike, were invited to bear witness to the event. King Toreyl waited patiently at the carved oaken alter underneath the massive budding tree that served as the temple's roof. Today was a special day for all of Crovhana. Today was they day that they would receive a new queen.
Toreyl had been so ecstatic about the event that he had paid a large sum of money to invite all manner of foreign aristocrats, politicians, celebrities, and even some Jedi. He wanted everyone to come to this. He wanted everyone to know that he was king, and that he was about to get a queen.
Finally, the moment had arrived. The priest motioned for everyone to rise, and the doors to the temple slowly opened. As a small choir began to sing an ancient Theowei matrimony hymn, the future queen began slowly walking toward the alter.
Her dress was full and billowy, so silver and shiny that it almost looked like water. Her long silvery-green hair was loosely gathered in a layered bun with strands coming down to her neck. Blue flowers were arranged in her hair along with diamonds, making her bright blue eyes become that much more vibrant. Around her neck was a necklace with a glowing blue stone. She walked almost heavily. Her face was not radiant and glowing as a bride's should be. Instead, it was somber and crestfallen as she reached the end of the isle.
Toreyl took her hand, and the ceremony began.
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It was just a little bit after sunset when the reception began. The music was lively and jovial as the guests conversed and danced and ate, congratulating the newlyweds and presenting them with gifts. Toreyl seemed absolutely overjoyed. But his new wife still seemed extremely depressed. Finally, she rose from her seat and whispered something in her husband's ear. He nodded and waved her away, allowing her to walk out of the massive room.
***********************
Leyan had very little time. Toreyl had believed her need to go to her room and retrieve her handbag. That meant that she only had ten minutes before he sent guards to find her. She practically raced down the corridors, making sure to keep as quiet as she possibly could in case anyone was still around. It wasn't long until she finally made it to her chambers. She didn't even glance around her large bedroom as she walked directly toward the doors to the balcony.
Leyan threw them open, letting the cool night air engulf her room. Slowly, she stepped out onto the balcony and looked out into the early night sky. All of Crovhana was celebrating the marriage. Thousands of orange lanterns floated through the city, lighting up the darkness. It was a beautiful sight. Leyan was happy that it would be the last thing she remembered.
She removed her shoes. Carefully, she climbed up onto the balcony railing, and stood there for a moment. She took several deep breaths. This moment. This moment was the last thing she ever wanted to remember. The orange lanterns in the city, and the sounds of celebration in the distance. It was a peaceful feeling. She felt as if a weight was being lifted from her shoulders. At long last, she would never feel this pain again.
Leyan closed her eyes, and leaned forward...
[member="Jak Sandrow"]
