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(Page 2 of 7) Ivaris - Chapter 10 by Jennifer Raney
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She looked forward to the ceremony with cold hatred, but showed only morose indifference.
The idea of being close to the one person she hated more than anyone in the world was both disgusting and thrilling. What she and Gerianne had planned for him more than made the suffering worthwhile.
Shortly before three the wedding coordinator burst in, "My lady, are you ready? We're to start in ten minutes," she said breathlessly.
Malynna took one last look in her mirror and breathed a slow, deep breath, "Yes, I'm ready," she said, and followed the coordinator downstairs.
Gerianne watched her go, and prayed silently to all the Stars to lend the princess strength and composure.
The wedding ceremony was held in the Emperor's Court. The most honored guests were given seats on either side of the carpeted runway, while everyone else waited in the great hall for the ceremony to be finished. They would have to be satisfied with seeing the two of them presented at the head of the stairs, as man and wife. The Emperor stood in front of his throne on the dais; Jovraan was placed in front of him on the first stair of the platform.
Shrinan wore a formal white robe and a pure white fur cloak that brushed the floor. A long white beard would have made him look magnificently old, so he was clean-shaven and looking very vital.
The groom wore his most elaborate set of polished ebony armor, decoratively scarred from battle and yet preserved for special occasions. The effect was meant to be most impressive – a true warrior never compromised recognition for his efforts in battle. Together they stood facing the doors, waiting for the centerpiece of the ceremony to make her grand entrance.
The guests' whispers echoed softly and then ceased abruptly when a mystical golden light appeared at the door. The illusionist concealed behind the throne was in charge of the effects of the wedding, and he was very talented.
The light appeared to have no source, but shone brightly, reflecting here and there off ghostly sequins drifting slowly from the ceiling. He softened the light a little so it appeared to be almost misty, and the crowd held their breath in anticipation.
Finally the great doors were opened, revealing Malynna and her accompanying maids. Her beauty was breathtaking. She stood, eyes cast demurely to the floor, in a most extravagant gold gown with a train extending several feet behind her. Her rich brown hair spilled down her back in shimmering ringlets, pleasantly accentuating the fabric of her gown. She raised her head, and began to walk slowly down the runway. The mystic light followed her, and she radiated like a star.
Shrinan's eyes glistened at the sight of his daughter, now a woman, walking toward him like an angel. His bliss was terribly misplaced, but his partial ignorance of the violent hatred his daughter concealed provided him with a perfect canvas for this happy day.
Malynna approached the dais and took her place opposite Jovraan, who had been watching her like a proud new owner.
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