GRAND MARRIAGE

As Xenia walked down the aisle toward the altar, a collective gasp filled the room. Her beauty, hidden for so long, was now on full display, and it captured everyone’s attention. The whispers about her supposed ugliness, spread by her jealous stepsister Elara, were silenced instantly.

For years, Xenia had stayed away from social events. Elara had told everyone, “My sister feels uncomfortable showing her face, so she won’t be coming to the tea parties. I apologize on her behalf.” Elara had attended these events for her, using Xenia’s absence to spread rumors. But now, everyone could see the truth: Xenia was stunning, a radiant beauty that had been hidden away.

Xenia’s eyes scanned the room, finally resting on the figure waiting for her. Duke Varric Thorne, the so-called Monster Duke, stood tall and imposing. His rugged features were striking, with a strong jawline, high cheekbones, and a nose that spoke of noble heritage. His frosty blue eyes, framed by dark, untamed hair, held a cold intensity, softened by a hint of warmth. His pale skin and neatly trimmed beard only added to his commanding presence.

But it was his eyes that held Xenia’s gaze. They never left hers, taking in her beauty as if he had been parched and was now at an oasis. Duke Varric’s intense stare made Xenia’s heart flutter with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

Elara, watching from the sidelines, was green with envy. She had always thought of herself as the most beautiful, but now Xenia’s radiant appearance overshadowed her. Her face twisted into a scowl as she observed the look of admiration in Varric’s eyes.

As Xenia’s father approached, her heart pounded with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. A strange sense of calm washed over her, as if this moment was where she was meant to be. Her father’s hand was warm as he placed it into Duke Varric’s gloved hand.

Their eyes met, and Xenia felt a jolt of electricity run through her. Instead of the hatred she had expected, she saw curiosity and wonder in the Duke’s frosty blue eyes. She offered him a warm smile, her lips curving upwards as her eyes shone with newfound hope.

The ceremony proceeded smoothly, the officiant’s words becoming a distant murmur as Xenia and Varric exchanged their vows. The tension in the air had shifted from animosity to anticipation. As they spoke their promises, Xenia’s cheeks flushed with happiness. When Varric’s lips touched hers in a brief kiss, her face turned a deep crimson. The kiss, though short, was filled with promises of a future and hints of passion.

Varric’s eyes remained locked on hers, burning with an intensity that made Xenia feel as if she were being pulled into a deep, warm ocean. She felt a sense of belonging, as though she was exactly where she was supposed to be. The room erupted into cheers and applause, and Xenia’s cheeks flushed even more with joy. With Varric by her side, she felt like a queen, his hand still firmly holding hers.

King Hawk, dressed in his finest clothes, raised his glass with a smile. “To the happy couple! May your union bring peace and prosperity to our lands!” His voice rang out with genuine approval.

As they toasted the guests, Xenia’s gaze never left Varric’s. She felt a deep sense of belonging, as if she had finally found her place in the world. The mask that Varric wore seemed to fade away, revealing a man who was both strong and vulnerable, and incredibly captivating.

The night grew darker, and the newlyweds prepared to leave for the North. Xenia’s heart raced with excitement and curiosity about what the future held. She knew this marriage was just the beginning and that their journey together would be filled with challenges and triumphs. The thought of starting this new chapter made her feel both nervous and eager.

Varric’s hand tightened around hers, his eyes shining with a promise of his own. They were about to face whatever came their way, and she felt a deep connection with him. Together, they would face the unknown, their bond growing stronger with each step they took.

Under the starry night sky, Xenia and Varric set off toward their new life. The North, with its icy landscapes and hidden warmth, awaited them. They were ready to embrace this new beginning, their hearts filled with hope and their spirits high with anticipation. The journey ahead was uncertain, but with each other by their side, they were ready to face whatever came next.

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