Evocation

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The bustling maids keep their hands busy as they ready the bride for her grand wedding.

The young girl can feel the watery eyes watching her closely as the maids lay the final touches on her makeup. "Princess, Queen Bennet, we're finished," the maid announces as they step back for the reveal.

Jocosa's eyes widen as she stares at the unrecognizable version of herself that stands in the reflection of the mirror. Behind her stand her mother and Aalis in awe of the bride.

Jocosa turns with confusion laced in her brows, "Why are you all crying?"

Her mother steps close grasping her hands dearly, "My dear, you have been through so much. I never thought I would have the chance to experience this joy. The joy of my daughter finding love and getting married. This is not an everyday experience you know."

"And my, do you look marvelous," Aalis sniffles into her drenched tissue before stepping closer, "The perfect bride."

"You're going to make me cry again," Jocosa's voice wavers as Aalis fans her eyes to ensure the salty droplets didn't ruin the beautiful makeup.

The three women swing their glances toward the sudden open door. Lola rushes through only to stop at the lovely bride before her, "My my, you are gorgeous."

"Not you too," Jocosa jokingly pouts as Lola joins in on the complimenting.

"Don't worry, I've come to collect you all. We're starting," Lola ushers the three to follow her down the halls to reach the ballroom. Aalis and Lola bid their farewells before running off to join the crowd leaving the Queen and Princess to have a moment between themselves.

"Don't be nervous my dear, just focus on what brought you here," her mother mutters before leaving a soft kiss on Jocosa's forehead. Jocosa thanks her as she watches her mother disappear to take her place.

Jocosa grips the bouquet between her palms as the guards push open the doors to the hall.

"Announcing Her Royal Highness, Princess Jocosa!"

Jocosa steps through the sea of bodies as familiar faces turn toward her—her family, the Wilmots, and countless other nobles. The golden fabric of her gown shimmering like sunlight as it trails behind her. Her heart pounds loudly with each monumental step as she reaches the man of her dreams.

A murmur of admiration ripples through the hall as she gracefully grasps Robert's hand to climb the steps of the altar. The two lovers exchange confident looks before bowing before the priest.

The priest starts the ceremony with a prayer, invoking blessings upon the union. "May this union bring peace and prosperity to both their hearts and this kingdom," he declares. "Before these two seal this arrangement, is there anyone who holds a reason to prohibit this marriage?"

After a moment of silence, Jocosa giggles as Robert peacefully sighs.

"Then we shall proceed. Both shall sign the agreement between both kingdoms."

Robert dips the quill pen in the provided ink before signing his name. He carefully hands the quill pen over to Jocosa watching as she follows his example.

"Now, bring forth the rings." The royal jeweler steps forward presenting the wedding bands on the velvet cushion. Robert moves first pinching the ring between his fingers as he delicately grabs Jocosa's hand. He slides the cool ring onto her fourth finger before holding his hand out for her. Jocosa trembles slightly as she takes her turn to place the ring on his waiting finger. The two quickly turn toward the priest for the crowning.

The symbol of her new role is placed upon Jocosa's veil prompting her to stand and watch as Robert receives his crown.

He then stands taking his place by her side as the priest declares their new reign and marriage. The two newlyweds turn to seal their marriage with a brief yet profound kiss.

Jocosa and Robert lead the crowd to the next room for the celebration.

As the wonderful event rolls through the night, Jocosa finds herself staring at her new home. She watches as her loved ones indulge in the festivities, whether it's conversing, dancing, or eating. Jocosa smiles as she watches Lorencio and Nara talking amongst themselves, their expressions soft as if something romantic is blossoming.

Suddenly hands slide across her midsection as she recognizes the scent of the mystery person, "Robert, you scared me."

"I apologize, I just saw you standing here all alone. I got worried," he rests his chin on her shoulder.

"I'm just watching everyone, they all seem so happy," she responds with a breathy smile.

"Are you happy, my love?" Robert whispers to his wife.

Jocosa spins in his arms facing him as her hand caresses his soft face, "Of course I am. I just keep thinking of how I would never found my way back if you all never looked for me. You all saved me and I'm truly grateful. I love you, I truly do."

"As do I Jocosa. We all love you." He soothes her worries as he leaves a sweet kiss on the back of her hand.

Her family, friends, and the man she loved are all here, celebrating this new chapter with her.

She feels a profound and unshakable sense that she is where she is supposed to be.